To dive deeper into Kyoto’s storied past, there’s no better way than stepping through the gates of Nijo Castle. Nestled between the old and new, Nijo Castle, or Nijo-jo (二条城) in Japanese, stands in striking contrast to the modern buildings that surround it, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Its unique architecture, combined with a fascinating history, has earned it a well-deserved place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this iconic landmark.
Getting to Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle is located in the Nakagyo ward of Kyoto. Access to the castle is easy since it’s only a short walk from Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Subway Line. From Kyoto Station, the entire trip takes roughly 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take Kyoto City Bus numbers 9 or 50. Its central location also makes it convenient to visit other nearby sightseeing spots, go shopping, or grab a bite to eat.
Once you get to the castle, you’ll need to buy an admission ticket. There are a number of ticket options depending on age and parts of the castle you want to see. Tickets can be purchased on site or via the official website. Pricing also differs during special events such as the Sakura Festival in spring, so be sure to check the official website for the latest hours and pricing info.
Location:
541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301
Pricing:
Castle only: 800 yen for adults
Castle and Ninomaru-goten Palace : 1300 yen for adults
＊Honmaru-goten Palace (requires a separate castle admission ticket and advanced reservations): 1000yen for adults
Website:
https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/?lang=en
Nijo Castle’s Legacy: A Stronghold of Power and Change
Nijo Castle was built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, as a powerful symbol of the shogunate’s wealth, authority, and control. For over 200 years, it served as a residence for the Tokugawa shoguns and as a constant reminder of their dominance.
It remained this way until 1867, when Tokugawa Yoshinobu officially declared the end of Tokugawa rule at the Ohiroma of the Ninomaru-goten palace in Nijo Castle. This declaration didn’t just change the fate of the Tokugawa family—it rocked the very foundations of Japanese society, marking the end of feudal Japan and the dawn of a new, industrialized era.
Inside Nijo Castle: Architectural Marvels and Ingenious Defenses
The castle grounds consist of three main areas. The Honmaru served as the primary line of defense, while the Ninomaru acted as a secondary stronghold. The third area features the surrounding gardens. Wide moats separate each section, reinforcing the castle’s defenses against invaders.
The walls and moats highlight advanced stonework techniques. The walls are built at a slight incline, enhancing stability and structural support. Interwoven logs within the stonework help distribute weight, further strengthening the foundation.
The castle itself is built in the shoin-zukuri style, an architectural design from the early Edo period. Upon entering, you’ll immediately notice the intricate details that make this castle exceptional. Throughout its interiors, masterful wood carvings, gold leaf embellishments, and breathtaking wall paintings adorn the spaces. The castle boasts nearly 3,600 wall paintings, with 1,016 designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Defensive features also extend beyond the castle’s exterior. Certain rooms, particularly those used for shogunal visits, contain concealed doors where bodyguards could emerge to protect the shogun if needed. As you explore, you’ll hear a subtle chirping sound beneath your feet. This feature, known as “Nightingale Floors” (uguisubari), results from clamps rubbing against nails in the floor’s support beams, designed to alert occupants to intruders.
Navigating Nijo Castle: Best Ways to Explore
There are several ways to explore Nijo Castle and make the most of your visit.
For a self-paced experience, you can rent an English audio guide at the booth near the entrance for a small fee of 600 yen. This option provides detailed insights into the castle’s history and architecture.
If you prefer a deeper dive, guided tours led by Kyoto City-certified interpreter guides offer exclusive access to areas usually closed to the public. These tours provide a richer understanding of the castle’s history and design compared to the audio guide.
For a more tailored experience, private tours are available through popular travel platforms. While this option offers personalized insights and flexibility, it tends to be more expensive.
There is limited signage in English, so we highly recommend one of the options above.
No matter how you choose to explore, Nijo Castle promises a fascinating and memorable visit.
Beyond Nijo Castle: Must-Visit Spots Nearby
After exploring Nijo Castle, there’s still plenty to discover nearby.
Just south of the castle, Shinsen-en Temple offers a tranquil retreat with its beautiful gardens. For a peaceful escape, visit Mikane Shrine, a lesser-known spot with a serene atmosphere. Mikane Shrine is famous for its breathtaking golden torii gate.
History enthusiasts will appreciate Nijo Jinya, an Edo-period townhouse with hidden defensive features. Guided tours are available, though they are typically conducted in Japanese. Located just south of Shinsen-en Temple, this historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into Kyoto’s past.
A 30-minute walk brings you to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan’s emperor. You can explore its expansive grounds and learn more about its history in our article: Exploring the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Its Surroundings.
For a glimpse into Japanese craftsmanship, visit the Kyoto Shibori Museum, where you can learn about shibori, a traditional textile dyeing technique.
The area around Nijo Castle also offers excellent dining and shopping. Nearby, sweet shops like Ureshinatsukashi Koshiya and restaurants serving Kyoto cuisine ensure you won’t leave hungry. A short train ride to Shijo Station on the Karasuma Line takes you to Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s renowned food market, where you can sample local specialties and shop for souvenirs.
Step Into Kyoto’s Past with Nijo Castle
Whether you’re drawn to Nijo Castle for its rich history or remarkable architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a captivating glimpse into Kyoto’s feudal past. Pair your visit with nearby historical sites, cultural experiences, and local cuisine to make the most of your time in this fascinating part of the city. However you choose to explore, Nijo Castle is sure to leave a lasting impression on your trip to Kyoto.
