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.

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Kyoto: Nijo Castle World Heritage Guided Tour with Admission

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(442)

from $41

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

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(165)

from $38

Price varies by group size

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

3 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(30)

from $98

Nijo Castle and Imperial Palace Visit with Guide

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

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from $78

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Crowd-Free Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

Kyoto’s most famous attractions can become crowded, but this private tour is planned to help you avoid the busiest times, with early starts where needed. Rather than simply visiting major sights, a guide enriches the tour with special stories and insights that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook. Along the way, check off important landmarks such as Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Nijo Castle, and Kinkakuji Temple.

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Crowd-Free Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(23)

from $91

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Kyoto Top Four Highlights Day Trip from Osaka or Kyoto

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. Visit Nijo Castle, its palace buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, and the castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. Visit the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, and explore the Arashiyama area, which includes the serene Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House and the beautiful Kimono Forest. Marvel at the golden temple of Kinkaku-ji that shows you the best of the timeless Japanese city, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

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Kyoto Top Four Highlights Day Trip from Osaka or Kyoto

9 hoursFree Cancellation

Kyoto Full-Day Bus Tour: Nijo, Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari (EN/ES)

10 hours 45 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

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from $99

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Private Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace Tour — Kyoto

Kyoto's two greatest power centers sit minutes apart, yet most travelers visit one without ever understanding how they shaped each other. This private tour tells the complete story — from the Shogun's calculated display of dominance in 1603 to the dramatic moment power was surrendered back to the Emperor in 1867. ✨Stand inside Ninomaru Palace on the famous nightingale floors, engineered to catch assassins ✨Discover how Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace defined 265 years of Japanese history ✨Enjoy an unhurried private experience with a Kyoto local as your guide ✨Walk the imperial gardens where the shogunate finally came to an end

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Private Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace Tour — Kyoto

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Kyoto Morning Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace

Covering Kyoto’s top UNESCO World Heritage sites in a few hours on your own is difficult. Simplify your experience on this half-day morning tour. Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), and the former Imperial Palace, with entrance fees and transport included. Depart from Kyoto or Osaka and travel comfortably between landmarks by vehicle, making the most of your limited time in the city. Entrance fees included.

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Kyoto Morning Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace

4 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

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from $86

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From Osaka or Kyoto: Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Kyoto

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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From Osaka or Kyoto: Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Kyoto

9 hoursFree Cancellation

This guided tour helps you discover Kyoto’s dispersed temples, shrines, and cultural attractions in one day. Save time researching and planning your trip, by having the itinerary organized for you. Travel in an air-conditioned coach for a hassle-free day. Highlights include Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sagano Bamboo Forest, and Kinkaku-ji Temple—admission tickets are included for all.

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PERFECT KYOTO 1-Day Bus Tour

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(16,708)

from $126

Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

4 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,624)

from $107

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Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

Follow a customizable itinerary through Kyoto during this bespoke half-day private tour. Simply select with attractions you’d like to visit and enjoy an in-depth visit in the company of your own personal nationally licensed guide. Tours include a front-door pickup at the front of your hotel. Travel like a local by public transportation or taxi; upgrade to include a private car at an additional cost.

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Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

4 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(742)

from $107

Price varies by group size

Kyoto Customized Private Tour: See Top Attractions in 1 Day

Take control of your Kyoto sightseeing and visit only the sights you wish to see on this private walking or driving tour. Ideal for first-time visitors, this private tour lets you customize a half-day or full-day itinerary, with a guide to provide commentary and insights. Opt to visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Nijo Castle, or stray from the beaten path to see an alternative side of Kyoto. Entrance fees extra.

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Kyoto Customized Private Tour: See Top Attractions in 1 Day

4 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

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from $130

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Hidden Temples in Kyoto a Self-Guided Zen Tour

Explore Kyoto at your own pace with our self-guided tour app, immersing yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Begin at the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, then venture to the Fushimi Inari Shrine to walk through thousands of vibrant orange torii gates. Admire the serene beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before strolling through the charming Gion district, where you might spot a geisha or maiko. Experience local flavors at the bustling Nishiki Market, Kyoto's "kitchen," then marvel at masterpieces of Japanese art and architecture in the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Visit the Nijo Castle in the city center to see the power that the Shoguns wielded over the emperors. Continue to the picturesque Philosopher's Path for a peaceful retreat, lined with hundreds of cherry trees.

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Hidden Temples in Kyoto a Self-Guided Zen Tour

Special Offer

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. Visit Nijo Castle, its palace buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, and the castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. Nijo-jo Castle has witnessed some of the most important events in Japanese history in the 400 years since it was built. Explore the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and visit the Arashiyama area, which includes the serene Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House and the beautiful Kimono Forest. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

...More

Kyoto One Day Sightseeing Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

9 hoursFree Cancellation

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2 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,651)

from $100

Price varies by group size

Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

6 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(480)

from $334

Price varies by group size

Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

Beat the crowds at Kyoto’s most popular landmarks on this private early-morning tour. An early start time ensures a calmer experience than busier afternoon visits, while the private format allows for a more personalized service. Either follow a recommended route or choose 2-3 attractions, such as Nijo Castle or Kiyomizu-dera Temple, then enjoy a fun adventure with your guide to provide commentary.

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Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(40)

from $91

Price varies by group size

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Kyoto Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

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. Visit Nijo Castle, its palace buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, and the castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. Nijo Castle has witnessed some of the most important events in Japanese history in the 400 years since it was built. Marvel at the golden temple of Kinkaku-ji that shows you the best of the timeless Japanese city, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Visit the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha and explore 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.

...More

Kyoto Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

9 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience ancient Kyoto on your terms with our immersive self-guided audio tour. Unlike rigid group tours, you'll explore at your own pace, lingering where you choose and skipping what doesn't interest you. Our expertly crafted narration reveals hidden stories and historical insights that even locals don't know, connecting you to Kyoto's soul in ways guidebooks cannot. Discover secret spots and authentic local perspectives as our professional narrators and refined sound design transport you through time. Each attraction comes alive through carefully researched storytelling that brings context to what you're seeing. Enjoy the freedom to customize your journey—visit attractions in any order, take breaks when desired, and truly absorb Kyoto's magic without being rushed. This isn't just information; it's a personal journey through Japan's cultural heart, designed for the curious traveler who seeks deeper connection and memorable experiences.

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Kyoto Self-Guided Audio Experience

At every destination, this tour follows a flexible sightseeing style: a short group introduction to set the scene, optional guided walks for those who want deeper storytelling, and generous free time for independent exploration. This approach allows travelers to balance structured cultural learning with the freedom to personalize their experience, making it a highly rewarding way to discover Kyoto’s heritage.

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Kyoto Bus Tour: Fushimi, Kiyomizu, Kinkaku-ji & Arashiyama

10 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

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from $81

Kyoto Private Day Trip - Enjoy Your First-Time Visit to Kyoto!

This is a one-day tour of Kyoto's must-see sights, very popular in any season and safe for first-time travelers to Kyoto. You will visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kinkakuji Temple, all of which are the main attractions of Kyoto! Select the "customizable tour " option and contact your guide 2 weeks in advance to create a fully personalized itinerary. At Fushimi Inari, enjoy the mysterious 'Senbon-torii'. Kiyomizu-dera Temple offers a unique view of Kyoto from its stage, while Nijo Castle showcases gorgeous old architecture. Kinkaku-dera Temple, known for its golden building, is said to be the origin of the 'Golden Land' ・Enjoy a jam-packed itinerary without worrying about planning ・Mastered guide - our guide have a great guide experience and have deep knowledge of Kyoto ・Avoid language barriers—no worry about the language barrier! ・If you would like to request a limo service by which you can go around with private car, select "with limo" option

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Kyoto Private Day Trip - Enjoy Your First-Time Visit to Kyoto!

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(139)

from $97

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle Walking Tour

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(10)

from $110

Price varies by group size

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What are people saying about Nijo-jo Castle

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

Roberta_J, Jul 2026

Kyoto history

Very kind tour guide! We had a great experience leaning about the history of Kyoto, shogun era and imperial palace

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

Jorge_C, Jul 2026

Very interesting tour and...

Very interesting tour and a good way to learn about Kyoto and Japan's political system. Eloise was a great guide with gave a lot of interesting infornation about the palace, castle, shogun and the emperor. She kept a great pace for all of us in the tour.

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

David_S, Jun 2026

Defiantly must do !

Our tour guide David was excellent. We really enjoyed of tour of Nijo Castle and Kyotos Imperial Palace. The tour was well paced and informative. One of the best tours we have done this trip

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.

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.

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

100+ results

What are people saying about Nijo-jo Castle

Nijo-jo Castle

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