Nijo Castle

Kyoto · Cultural Experience

90–150 min

🚶 1 1 min walk from Nijojo-mae Station

¥¥

Insider Tip

Walk slowly on the nightingale floors to hear the chirping sound. The Seiryu-en garden is often empty.

JEMS Tip

We time your visit for the seasonal illumination events and explain the historical significance of each room.

About

Nijo Castle was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The Ninomaru Palace features famous 'nightingale floors' that chirp when walked upon, and stunning painted sliding screens by the Kano school.

Crowd Avoidance

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour bus crowds. Kyoto is most crowded during cherry blossom (late March-April) and autumn foliage (November) seasons.