Nijo-jo Castle Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit Nijo-jo Castle in 2026?

Tickets to Nijo-jo Castle cost ¥800 for adults, ¥300–¥400 for older students, and ¥300 for elementary students. Admission that includes Ninomaru-goten Palace costs ¥1,300, ¥400, and ¥300. Tickets to the Honmaru-goten Palace (reservations required), cost ¥1,000, ¥400, and ¥300. Tickets to the Painting Gallery cost ¥100 for everyone.

Q: Do I need to purchase Nijo-jo Castle tickets in advance, or can I buy them on the day?

No. You don’t need to purchase tickets for most areas of Nijo-jo Castle in advance, though you can to streamline your visit. However, you must purchase tickets for the Honmaru-goten Palace on the castle grounds in advance. Purchase these online within 30 days of your visit.

Q: What are the opening hours of Nijo-jo Castle?

Nijo-jo Castle is open 8:45am–5pm. Ninomaru-goten Palace is open from 8:45am–4:10pm and Honmaru-goten Palace from 9:30am–4pm. It's closed for December and New Year holidays. Ninomaru-goten Palace is closed Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December. Honmaru-goten Palace is closed on the third Monday of each month.

Q: How do I get to Nijo-jo Castle?

Niji-jo Castle is in central Kyoto’s Nakagyo Ward and is easily reachable from other parts of Kyoto. By public transportation, take the Tozai Subway line to Nijo-jo Mae Station. Several buses also stop nearby, including 9, 50, and 12, although many travelers find it easier to use the subway.

Q: Is Nijo-jo Castle accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?

Yes and no: Although Nijo-jo Castle’s grounds are covered in gravel, which isn’t easy for visitors in regular wheelchairs to navigate, free electric wheelchairs can be borrowed from the information desk. These require assistance from a helper or caregiver. Indoor wheelchairs can be borrowed for Ninomaru-goten Palace and Honmaru-goten Palace.

100+ results

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Kyoto: Nijo Castle World Heritage Guided Tour with Admission

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Nijo Castle Samurai Inside Story — Top-Rated Guide (Max 8)

Discover the secrets of samurai warriors during this exciting small-group tour around Nijo Castle. As you follow your guide from the east side main gate around the grounds, find out tales that most tourists miss out on—such as the secret roles of the samurai, unspoken rules, and hidden systems. You can also enjoy plenty of valuable insights into Japanese culture and the must-see highlights of the castle.

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Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city on the island of Honshu. Take a journey through time in Kyoto, where tradition blends harmoniously with modernity. Marvel at Kinkaku-ji, the golden temple known as the Golden Pavilion, which showcases the beauty of this timeless city. Visit Nijo Castle, celebrated for its palace buildings, which are among the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture from Japan's feudal era. The castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. Explore the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, and visit the Arashiyama area, which includes the serene Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, and the beautiful Kimono Forest. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

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Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto! Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 3 to 4 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

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With an experienced local guide fluent in both English and Japanese (with previous experience guiding Hollywood actors, Lance Gross!) All of our members were born and raised in Japan, so we have an in-depth understanding of the country. This allows us to share the hidden charms of Japan that only locals know. In addition, we offer free Japanese language support in case of emergencies. In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in accidents and incidents involving unlicensed or inexperienced drivers who are not from Japan at other companies. Our strength lies in providing the highest level of safety and reliability through our Japanese drivers and Japanese guides. In addition to hands-on activities such as ninja training and chopstick-making, our strong local connections grant access to exclusive experiences — including invitations-only Ochaya and private geisha or maiko performances. (We are a Guide Service Company)

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Marvel at the some of the top UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples and palaces of ancient Kyoto on this half-day tour. This quick introduction to the sights of Kyoto covers Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), and the Japanese Emperor’s former Imperial Palace—a perfect way to see the city if you’re short on time. Your guided morning Kyoto excursion includes entrance fees and transport between sites by vehicle.

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Embark on a whimsical journey through Kyoto's hidden treasures with our 'Mystical Kyoto Quest' tour! Uncover secret shrines, wander enchanting bamboo forests, and sip tea in traditional tea houses. Follow our knowledgeable guides as they unveil fascinating tales of samurai legends and geisha mystique. Traverse winding alleyways, sample delectable street food, and discover hidden art studios. Immerse yourself in captivating cultural activities like calligraphy and kimono dressing. Experience the thrill of a rickshaw ride through historic neighborhoods and revel in the mesmerizing beauty of illuminated temples at night. Unveil the mysteries of Kyoto on this unforgettable adventure that promises laughter discovery, and unforgettable memories. Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of this ancient city Note: if you are a solo or couple traveler, you might be ask to join another couple or solo traveler

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What are people saying about Nijo-jo Castle

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Guided Walking Tour - 3 Hours

Daniel_J, Jun 2026

Kyoto pearls

David was great and very welcoming. Good knowledge of the route and Japan in general. Good conversation and a very strong guide.

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Guided Walking Tour - 3 Hours

Henri_C, May 2026

Excellent tour

Everyone should do it if they want to learn More about Japanese history.Jasmine was ann excellent guide and very knowledgeable.

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Guided Walking Tour - 3 Hours

Cindy_S, May 2026

Our guide was very...

Our guide was very informative and was patient with our questions. He grew up in Kyōto and knew a lot about the tour and Japanese culture.

Nijo Castle and Imperial Palace Visit with Guide

Margaret_C, Mar 2026

Our guide, Mia was...

Our guide, Mia was absolutely wonderful. It was obvious not only was she very knowledgeable, but she clearly enjoys what she does. I'm glad we booked the tour as it made walking through Nijo Castle and the Imperial Place more meaningful.

Nijo Castle and Imperial Palace Visit with Guide

Lorne_S, Nov 2025

Mia was a superb guide on...

Mia was a superb guide on our tour of two historic palaces, and the lovely garden next to one of them. She not only explained what we were viewing, but she also offered an historical and/or cultural context that was very informative. She answered questions knowledgeably. Although the palaces were interesting, Mia’s commentary really added to our understanding of these sites.

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Guided Walking Tour - 3 Hours

Akane_G, Apr 2026

Please bring an umbrella...

Tour is very flexible with the pacing and informative! Jasmine was kind, patient, and very knowledgeable with every stop that she made on the tour, and she took the time to find places to stop away from crowded areas to personalize the experience for us. I highly recommend her for Kyoto tours!

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Guided Walking Tour - 3 Hours

Entesar_N, Apr 2026

Kyoto 101

My mother used to live in Japan, and I have visited the country three times. That said, Jasmine elevated our experience with her knowledge, kindness, and patience throughout our tour. Jasmine was attentive and felt like a friend rather than a guide. We truly enjoyed our time with her and learning more deeply about the history and cultural significance of the royal family and the Shogun of old. This isn’t goodbye, it’s see you soon. From Armin and Entesar xx

Nijo-jo Castle

5.0

(25,147)

Kyoto

Know before you go

An admission fee is charged to enter the Nijo-jo Castle grounds.
English audio guides and in-person guided tours are available.
Although the Honmaru Palace is not usually open, visitors can walk around the Honmaru Gardens and climb the stone tower for views of the palace and gardens.

Nijo-jo Castle Tours and Tickets

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