11 - Days of Free and Easy: Japan (Kyoto Highlights), Kyoto, Japan

Built on a flatland, Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage status castle with well-preserved imperial palaces from the feudal era.

“Nijo Castle (二条城, Nijōjō) was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867).” (source)

The castle is separated into an outer perimeter (Ninomaru) and an inner area (Honmaru); both protected by its ring of moat and rock walls. In addition, both the outer perimeter and inner area has its palace complex; namely Ninomaru Palace and Honmaru Palace respectively.

Visitor entry into the castle is via the eastern gate where there are a carpark and a ticketing booth.

After purchasing the tickets, I was directed into the castle grounds thru the eastern gate. A few steps past the gate and I would be greeted by the sight of the well-crafted Karamon Gate, which is the entrance to the outer perimeter of the castle.

Immediately behind the Karamon Gate is the Ninomaru Palace; the residence and office of the shogun. The shogun would perform his administrative duties and hold courts here. Visitors are allowed to enter the palace and take self-guided tours of the premises. (Note: Shoes and photography are not allowed in the palace) ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).