Nijo Castle

Overview

A magnificently preserved castle built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Its opulent interiors and ingenious security features showcase shogunal power.

Highlights

• Nightingale Floors: Corridors producing chirping sounds when walked upon — an elegant anti-ninja alarm.
• Ninomaru Palace: 33 rooms with 3,600 Kano school wall paintings.
• Ninomaru Garden: A grand strolling garden designed for viewing from elevated rooms.

History

Here in 1867, the last shogun formally returned power to Emperor Meiji, ending 264 years of Tokugawa rule.

Visitor Tips

• Audio Guide: Highly recommended for the political symbolism in each room's paintings.
• Cherry Blossoms: 400 cherry trees with evening illuminations in spring.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.