Tokyo One-Day Itinerary: Combining Emperor’s Birthday Events & Palace Sightsy

A Folklore Expert’s Complete Guide to Experiencing Japan’s Most Exclusive Royal Celebration and Historic Imperial Palace

Introduction: Why the Emperor’s Birthday Is Japan’s Most Unique Cultural Experience

There are moments in travel that transcend ordinary sightseeing. Standing in the Totei (East Court) of the Tokyo Imperial Palace, surrounded by thousands of well-wishers waving small Japanese flags, watching the Emperor of Japan appear on the balcony of the Chowaden Hall—this is one of those moments. As someone who has dedicated decades to studying global festivals and royal traditions, I can confidently say that the Emperor’s Birthday celebration in Japan offers a cultural immersion unlike anything else in the world.

The Emperor’s Birthday (Tenno Tanjobi) is one of only two days per year when the general public can enter the inner grounds of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. The other occasion is the New Year’s Greeting on January 2nd. For international travelers seeking authentic Japanese cultural experiences, timing your visit to coincide with February 23rd creates an unforgettable opportunity to witness living Japanese tradition while exploring one of Tokyo’s most historically significant landmarks.

This comprehensive one-day itinerary will guide you through maximizing your Emperor’s Birthday Tokyo experience while seamlessly incorporating visits to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, iconic photo spots like Nijubashi Bridge, and the surrounding Marunouchi district. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Japan or a returning traveler seeking deeper cultural connections, this guide provides everything you need to know.

Understanding the Emperor’s Birthday: History and Significance of Tenno Tanjobi

The 1,300-Year Legacy of Japan’s Imperial Birthday Celebration

The celebration of the Emperor’s Birthday has roots stretching back over 1,300 years in Japanese history. Originally called “Tenchosetsu” (天長節), meaning “the sky and the earth, the universe is eternal,” this celebration began during the Nara Period (710-794) under Emperor Kōnin. The name itself conveyed the hope that the emperor would reign eternally, reflecting the deep reverence Japanese society held for its imperial institution.

According to Wikipedia, the holiday was formally institutionalized during the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Emperor Meiji, who led Japan’s dramatic modernization, strengthened emperor-worship practices and established the Birthday as a national celebration. Since then, the date has shifted with each new emperor’s accession to the throne.

After World War II, when the imperial family relinquished political power under the new constitution, the celebration was renamed “Tenno Tanjobi”—a more casual term that translates directly as “Emperor’s Birthday.” The Holiday Act of 1948 officially designated it as a national public holiday.

Emperor Naruhito and the Current Celebration Date

The current Emperor of Japan, Emperor Naruhito, ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1, 2019, following the abdication of his father, Emperor Emeritus Akihito. Born on February 23, 1960, Emperor Naruhito is the 126th Emperor in the Japanese imperial line.

Emperor Naruhito graduated from Gakushuin University in Tokyo and later studied at Merton College, University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. He is married to Empress Masako, a former diplomat, and they have one daughter, Princess Aiko. The Imperial Family resides within the Tokyo Imperial Palace, making this celebration particularly significant as it occurs at their actual residence.

Planning Your Visit: Emperor’s Birthday Imperial Palace Event Practical Information

Key Times and Entry Details for the General Congratulatory Visit

Planning a visit to the Emperor’s Birthday public ceremony requires careful attention to timing. According to the Imperial Household Agency, the event structure follows a precise schedule:

Morning Balcony Appearances (Ippan-sanga):

Important Entry Information:

• Entrance Gate: Main Gate (Nijubashi)
• Entry Window: 9:30 AM – 11:20 AM
• Exit Gates: Sakashita-mon Gate, Kikyo-mon Gate, Ote-mon Gate, Hirakawa-mon Gate, and Kitahanebashi-mon Gate

Afternoon Greeting Book Session:

• Time: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
• Location: Front of the Imperial Household Building
• Purpose: Sign the official congratulatory book, which is forwarded to the Emperor

The Reservation System: What International Visitors Need to Know

Critical Update: In recent years, the Imperial Household Agency has implemented a reservation system for attending the balcony greeting sessions. Many visitors, particularly international tourists, have been caught off guard by this requirement, as announcements and instructions around the palace are predominantly in Japanese only.

Key recommendations for international visitors:

1. Check the Imperial Household Agency website well in advance of your visit
2. Arrive extremely early (by 8:00 AM or earlier) to account for security screening
3. Expect wait times exceeding one hour to pass through checkpoints
4. Prepare for hand sanitization and temperature checks at entry points
5. If you cannot secure a reservation, the afternoon Greeting Book signing remains accessible

The large crowds, extensive security measures, and language barriers make preparation essential. However, even without entering for the balcony appearance, the atmosphere around the Imperial Palace on February 23rd is electric with celebration.

Early Morning: Arriving at Tokyo Station and the Marunouchi District

Why Tokyo Station Is the Perfect Starting Point for Your Imperial Palace Day

Your one-day Tokyo Imperial Palace itinerary should begin at Tokyo Station, one of Japan’s most impressive transportation hubs. The station serves as the gateway to the Marunouchi district and sits just a 10-15 minute walk from the Imperial Palace grounds.

Tokyo Station itself is an architectural marvel worth exploring. The Marunouchi Station Building, completed in 1914, features a stunning red-brick facade designed by architect Tatsuno Kingo. The building was heavily damaged during World War II but has been beautifully restored to its original glory.

Best photo spots at Tokyo Station:

• Central Front Gate: Stand directly in front for symmetrical photos of the building
• Marunouchi North and South Domes: Look up to capture the colorful dome ceilings
• Miyuki-dori Street: Capture the tree-lined avenue connecting the station to the Imperial Palace

According to LIVE JAPAN, the station building photographs best between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when natural lighting is optimal. However, since you’ll want to arrive early for the Emperor’s Birthday celebration, capture your station photos either before the event begins or save them for your late afternoon departure.

Navigating from Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace

From Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi Central Exit, follow these directions:

1. Exit the station and face the Imperial Palace direction (west)
2. Walk straight along Gyoko-dori Avenue for approximately 500 meters
3. You’ll see the Kokyo Gaien National Garden (Imperial Palace Outer Garden) opening before you
4. For the Emperor’s Birthday event, follow the crowd and police guidance toward the Main Gate (Nijubashi)

The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes at a normal pace, but expect significantly longer times on February 23rd due to crowd control measures.

The Emperor’s Birthday Experience: What to Expect at the Imperial Palace Celebration

The Atmosphere and Traditions of the Ippan-sanga Ceremony

The Ippan-sanga (一般参賀), or “Visit of the General Public to the Palace,” is a deeply moving experience that bridges ancient tradition with modern Japan. Upon arrival, you’ll notice something remarkable: the diversity of attendees. While the majority are Japanese citizens paying their respects, significant numbers of international visitors from America, Germany, Italy, China, France, and dozens of other countries join the celebration.

As you approach the palace grounds, police officers distribute small paper Japanese flags (Hinomaru) free of charge. These white flags with the red circle representing the rising sun become your participation in one of Japan’s most cherished traditions.

What happens during the balcony appearance:

1. The Emperor, Empress, and other Imperial Family members appear on the balcony of the Chowaden Hall
2. The Emperor delivers a short speech acknowledging the well-wishers and thanking them for their birthday greetings
3. The crowd responds with enthusiastic chants of “Tenno Heika Banzai!” (天皇陛下万歳!), meaning “Long live His Imperial Majesty the Emperor!”
4. Visitors wave their Japanese flags vigorously
5. The Imperial Family waves back before withdrawing into the palace

The entire appearance lasts only a few minutes, but the emotional impact resonates deeply. Many visitors describe feeling a profound connection to Japanese history and culture during these brief moments.

Security Protocols and Crowd Management

Since the tragic assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022, security measures at Imperial events have been significantly enhanced. Expect the following:

• Multiple security checkpoints with bag inspections
• Slow, controlled crowd movement to prevent crushing incidents
• Police guidance throughout your visit (primarily in Japanese)
• Prohibition of certain items including large bags, tripods, and selfie sticks

The Imperial Household Agency recommends bringing only minimal personal effects. Consider leaving larger bags in a coin locker at Tokyo Station or at your hotel.

Late Morning: Exploring the Nijubashi Bridge and Kokyo Gaien National Garden

Nijubashi Bridge: Tokyo’s Most Photographed Imperial Landmark

After the morning celebration (or while waiting for the afternoon Greeting Book session), take time to explore the Kokyo Gaien National Garden and capture photos of the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.

The name “Nijubashi” (二重橋) means “Double Bridge,” though there’s interesting nuance to this designation. According to the Chiyoda Tourism Association, the term actually refers to two separate bridges:

The Nijubashi Bridge is normally closed to the public and used only for official events, foreign state guests, and Imperial ceremonies. However, on the Emperor’s Birthday and New Year’s Day, visitors cross these historic bridges as part of the Ippan-sanga event.

Best photography tips for Nijubashi:

• Optimal viewpoint: The large plaza of Kokyo Gaien, looking toward the palace
• Best light: Early morning for softer lighting, or late afternoon for golden hour effects
• Key composition: Capture the bridge’s reflection in the still moat water
• Seasonal highlights: Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) transforms the scene into a postcard-perfect view

Other Attractions Within Kokyo Gaien National Garden

While at the outer gardens, don’t miss these additional points of interest:

Statue of Kusunoki Masashige

This impressive bronze statue honors the 14th-century samurai warrior Kusunoki Masashige, famous for his loyalty to Emperor Go-Daigo during the Kamakura period. The statue, created in 1900, depicts him on horseback and represents the samurai ideal of unwavering loyalty.

Sakurada-mon Gate

One of the original gates of Edo Castle, Sakurada-mon is a designated Important Cultural Property. It’s particularly significant as the site where the assassination of Ii Naosuke, a powerful government official, occurred in 1860 during the chaotic final years of the Tokugawa shogunate.

Wadakura Fountain Park

Located within the outer garden, this modern park features dramatic fountain displays and serves as a pleasant rest area. It was created in 1961 to commemorate the marriage of the then-Crown Prince (later Emperor Akihito) and Princess Michiko.

Midday Break: Best Restaurants Near the Imperial Palace for Lunch

Dining Options in the Marunouchi District

The Marunouchi district surrounding Tokyo Station offers exceptional dining options ranging from affordable ramen to Michelin-starred establishments. Given the energy you’ll expend at the Emperor’s Birthday celebration, a satisfying lunch is essential.

According to MATCHA Japan Travel Guide, here are some top recommendations:

High-End Dining:

Mid-Range Options:

Budget-Friendly Choices:

According to RecipeTin Eats, Tokyo Ramen Street on the B1 level of Tokyo Station offers eight of the best ramen shops in Tokyo. Rokurinsha, famous for their tsukemen (dipping ramen), consistently has the longest lines—a testament to its quality.

Tokyo Ramen Street Hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM (last order 10:30 PM)

For vegetarian and vegan visitors, T’s TanTan at Tokyo Station offers plant-based ramen and curry dishes that prove vegetarian Japanese food can be delicious.

Lunch Timing Strategy for Emperor’s Birthday

Given the event schedule, consider these timing strategies:

1. Early Lunch (Before 11:00 AM): Grab a quick breakfast or early lunch before heading to the palace
2. Late Lunch (After 2:00 PM): Attend the morning ceremony, then enjoy a leisurely lunch during the less crowded afternoon hours
3. Ekiben (Train Station Bento): Purchase a beautifully crafted bento box from GranSta or Daimaru’s food hall at Tokyo Station to enjoy on-the-go

The Marunouchi area is primarily a business district, so restaurants are extremely crowded from 12:00-1:30 PM on weekdays. Plan accordingly.

Afternoon: Visiting the Imperial Palace East Gardens Free of Charge

Understanding the East Gardens: Former Site of Edo Castle

The Imperial Palace East Gardens (Kokyo Higashi Gyoen) offer one of Tokyo’s finest—and completely free—cultural experiences. According to the Imperial Household Agency, these gardens were developed using parts of the former Honmaru, Ninomaru, and Sannomaru areas of the historic Edo Castle and have been open to the public since 1968.

Important Note: The East Gardens are closed on the Emperor’s Birthday (February 23rd) due to the special palace events. However, if you’re visiting on a different day or planning a return trip, this section provides comprehensive information for your garden exploration.

East Gardens Opening Hours and Seasonal Variations

Closed Days:

• Every Monday and Friday
• New Year Period: December 28 – January 3
• Special occasions when Imperial Court functions are scheduled
• Exception: If Monday or Friday falls on a national holiday (except February 23rd), the gardens remain open but close the following day

What to See in the Imperial Palace East Gardens

The East Gardens span a significant area and offer numerous attractions. Plan for 1-2 hours minimum to explore properly.

Historical Highlights:

Tenshudai (Castle Tower Foundation)

The Tenshudai is the stone foundation of what was once the tallest tower in Japan—the main keep of Edo Castle. The original tower, completed in 1638, stood an impressive 51 meters tall but was destroyed by fire in 1657 and never rebuilt. Today, only the massive stone base remains, offering a poignant reminder of the castle’s former grandeur.

Honmaru (Main Circle)

The Honmaru was the innermost defense circle of Edo Castle, where the shogun’s residence and the main tower stood. Today, it features extensive lawns, flowering gardens, and the Tenshudai foundation.

Ninomaru Garden

The Ninomaru Garden is a beautifully designed Japanese-style garden created in place of the castle’s former palace buildings. It includes:

• Traditional landscaping with carefully placed stones
• A pond garden with koi fish
• Seasonal flowers and plants
• Shaded walking paths

According to Tripadvisor reviews, the Ninomaru Garden is particularly stunning during autumn when the leaves change color and during cherry blossom season in spring.

Sannomaru Shozokan (Museum of the Imperial Collections)

This museum houses over 6,000 pieces of art created by imperial household artists between 1533 and 1934. Admission is free, and exhibits rotate regularly, offering insight into centuries of Japanese artistic tradition.

Practical Tips for Visiting the East Gardens

Entry Gates:

From Tokyo Station, the walk to Ote-mon Gate takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

What to Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water bottle (limited vending machines inside)
• Camera
• Minimal baggage (bag inspection required at entrance)

Free Audio Guide App:

The Imperial Household Agency offers a free audio guide app that provides information about the facilities and features of the East Gardens. Download it before your visit for enhanced exploration.

Alternative for February 23rd: Guided Tours of the Imperial Palace Inner Grounds

How to Book the Free Imperial Palace Guided Tour

If you’re visiting Tokyo but not on February 23rd, you can still access parts of the normally restricted Imperial Palace through the free guided tours offered by the Imperial Household Agency.

According to the official tour information, tours are conducted:

• Twice daily: 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM
• Languages: Japanese and English
• Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
• Distance: Nearly 1.5 miles walking
• Days: Tuesday through Saturday (closed Sundays, Mondays, national holidays, and year-end/New Year periods)

The tour route includes:

1. Kikyo-mon Gate (entry)
2. Someikan (visitor’s rest house)
3. Fujimi Yagura (“Mt. Fuji View” Keep)
4. Imperial Household Agency Building
5. East Courtyard of the Imperial Palace
6. Seimon-tetsubashi Bridge (walking across and back)
7. Yamashita-dori Street
8. Kikyo-mon Gate (exit)

Reservation Methods:

1. Online Reservation: Applications accepted from 5:00 AM on the first day of the month preceding your desired tour date via the Imperial Household Agency website
2. Walk-in Registration: A limited number of numbered tickets are distributed one hour before each tour’s starting time outside Kikyo-mon Gate

Requirements:

• Valid identification (passport for international visitors)
• Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
• No photocopied IDs accepted

Late Afternoon: Exploring Kitanomaru Park and the National Museum of Modern Art

Kitanomaru Park: A Green Oasis Near the Imperial Palace

Located on the northern side of the Imperial Palace, Kitanomaru Park offers a peaceful retreat from the celebration crowds. The park was formerly a military base before being converted to a public park in 1969.

Highlights of Kitanomaru Park:

• Cherry blossom trees (spectacular in late March-early April)
• Autumn foliage (beautiful in November)
• More picnic-friendly spaces than the crowded East Gardens
• Scenic moat views

The park also houses several important institutions:

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT)

Japan’s principal museum for modern art, featuring significant 20th-century works that blend Western and Japanese artistic styles. The permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, watercolors, and prints by both Japanese and international artists.

The Science Museum (Kagaku Gijutsukan)

An interactive science museum particularly popular with families and children.

Nippon Budokan

The famous martial arts arena, originally built for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, which now hosts concerts and sporting events.

Evening: Marunouchi Illuminations and Dinner Options

Seasonal Illuminations Near Tokyo Station

If you’re visiting during the winter months (November through February, which includes the Emperor’s Birthday), you’ll be treated to the spectacular Marunouchi Illuminations. According to Tokyo Cheapo, the Naka-dori Street comes alive with thousands of LED lights decorating the trees lining this elegant avenue.

The illuminations typically run from mid-November through mid-February, making them a perfect complement to your Emperor’s Birthday visit.

Additionally, Tokyo Michi Terrace in late December projects stunning light displays onto the face of Tokyo Station itself—a dazzling sight to end your day.

Recommended Dinner Spots After Your Imperial Palace Day

After a full day of cultural exploration, reward yourself with an exceptional Tokyo dinner:

For Japanese Cuisine:

For International Flavors:

Complete One-Day Itinerary Summary: Emperor’s Birthday Tokyo Schedule

Optimized Timeline for February 23rd

Here’s a complete, minute-by-minute schedule for maximizing your Emperor’s Birthday and Imperial Palace experience:

What to Pack: Essential Items for Your Emperor’s Birthday Visit

Recommended Packing List

Clothing:

• Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk 5+ miles)
• Layered clothing (February in Tokyo averages 5-10°C / 41-50°F)
• Warm jacket for standing outside during ceremonies
• Respectful attire (while no dress code, smart casual is appropriate)

Accessories:

• Small bag only (large bags complicate security screening)
• Camera with fully charged battery
• Portable phone charger
• Small umbrella (February can be unpredictable)

Documents:

• Passport (required for any official palace tours)
• Hotel address in Japanese (for taxi or emergency directions)
• Printed itinerary (phone batteries can die)

Optional but Helpful:

• Downloaded audio guide app for East Gardens
• Translation app (Google Translate with offline Japanese)
• Cash (many smaller shops don’t accept cards)

Tips for International Visitors: Navigating Language and Cultural Barriers

Practical Advice for Non-Japanese Speakers

The Emperor’s Birthday celebration presents unique challenges for international visitors, as most instructions, announcements, and guidance are provided in Japanese only. Here’s how to navigate successfully:

Before You Go:

1. Learn key Japanese phrases:
   • “Sumimasen” (すみません) – Excuse me
   • “Arigatou gozaimasu” (ありがとうございます) – Thank you very much
   • “Otoire wa doko desu ka?” (お手洗いはどこですか?) – Where is the restroom?
2. Download offline maps of the Imperial Palace area
3. Research current requirements on the Imperial Household Agency website

During the Event:

1. Follow the crowd – Japanese visitors know where to go
2. Watch what others do and mirror their behavior
3. Stay calm and patient – security lines move slowly but steadily
4. Smile and be polite – kindness transcends language barriers

Cultural Etiquette:

• Bow slightly when receiving your Japanese flag
• Remove your hat during the imperial appearance
• Join in the Banzai chant if comfortable—it’s welcomed and appreciated
• Don’t cut lines – orderly queuing is essential in Japan
• Dispose of trash properly – carry items until you find a bin

Seasonal Considerations: When to Visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace

Best Times of Year for Imperial Palace Sightseeing

While February 23rd offers the unique Emperor’s Birthday experience, other seasons provide their own magical qualities:

Cherry Blossom Season (Late March – Early April)

Autumn Foliage (November)

The Ninomaru Garden and Kitanomaru Park display spectacular autumn colors, typically peaking in mid to late November.

Summer (June – August)

Gardens are at their greenest, with extended opening hours (until 6:00 PM). However, expect heat and humidity.

Winter (December – February)

Includes the Emperor’s Birthday and New Year’s Greeting. Beautiful illuminations in Marunouchi. Fewer tourists overall.

Nearby Attractions: Extending Your Imperial Palace Area Visit

Additional Tokyo Experiences Within Walking Distance

If you have extra time or want to extend your Imperial Palace experience over multiple days, consider these nearby attractions:

Idemitsu Museum of Arts

Hidden on the 9th floor of an office building at the southern edge of Marunouchi, this museum features Japanese paintings and East Asian ceramics. The rest area offers free tea and sweeping views over the Imperial Palace.

Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum

Located in the beautiful Marunouchi Brick Square, this museum is housed in a replica of the original Mitsubishi Ichigokan building from 1894. It hosts excellent special exhibitions focusing primarily on Western and Japanese art.

Nihonbashi District

A short walk east of Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi is one of Tokyo’s oldest merchant districts. Visit the historic Nihonbashi Bridge (the traditional starting point for measuring distances in Japan) and explore department stores like Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya.

Ginza

Tokyo’s most luxurious shopping district lies just south of the Imperial Palace area. Often compared to New York’s Fifth Avenue, Ginza features high-end boutiques, department stores, and some of Tokyo’s finest restaurants.

Photography Guide: Capturing Your Emperor’s Birthday Memories

Best Shots to Capture During Your Visit

Early Morning (Pre-Event):

• Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building facade
• Empty Gyoko-dori Avenue leading to the palace
• First light on the palace walls and moats

During the Celebration:

• The crowd gathering with Japanese flags
• Nijubashi Bridge from the inside (only possible on February 23rd and January 2nd)
• The Imperial Family on the Chowaden balcony (use zoom lens)
• Enthusiastic flag-waving during Banzai chants

Afternoon:

• Nijubashi Bridge reflections from Kokyo Gaien
• Statue of Kusunoki Masashige
• Sakurada-mon Gate
• Wadakura Fountain Park

Evening:

• Marunouchi illuminations
• Tokyo Station lit up at night
• Naka-dori Street’s glowing trees

Photography Tips:

1. Bring extra batteries – cold weather drains them faster
2. Use burst mode during the imperial appearance
3. Respect photography restrictions in certain areas
4. Avoid flash photography directed at the Imperial Family
5. Capture the crowd – the sea of waving flags is uniquely photogenic

Conclusion: Why the Emperor’s Birthday Should Be on Every Japan Traveler’s Bucket List

Standing in the East Court of the Tokyo Imperial Palace on February 23rd, surrounded by thousands of fellow well-wishers from around the world, you become part of a tradition stretching back over 1,300 years. This is not merely tourism—it is cultural participation at its finest.

The Emperor’s Birthday celebration offers what few travel experiences can: a genuine, unfiltered glimpse into a living cultural tradition. The Imperial Family’s appearance on the balcony connects you directly to Japan’s deep respect for continuity, tradition, and national identity. The enthusiastic cries of “Banzai!” echoing across the courtyard create goosebumps regardless of your nationality.

Combined with exploration of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, the iconic Nijubashi Bridge, and the sophisticated Marunouchi district, this one-day itinerary provides a comprehensive introduction to Tokyo’s historical heart. Whether you’re drawn by the history of Edo Castle, the living traditions of the Imperial Family, or simply the beauty of meticulously maintained Japanese gardens, this experience delivers on every level.

As a folklore expert who has witnessed celebrations and traditions across every continent, I can confidently say that Japan’s Emperor’s Birthday represents one of the world’s most accessible yet profound royal traditions. Unlike European monarchies with their distant formality or Southeast Asian royal events with restricted access, Japan opens its palace gates to welcome visitors from every nation.

Plan your visit. Arrive early. Join in the celebration. And when you find yourself waving that small Japanese flag alongside thousands of others, you’ll understand why this day deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list.

Frequently Asked Questions: Emperor’s Birthday Tokyo Visit

Common Questions About Visiting the Imperial Palace on February 23rd

Q: Is the Emperor’s Birthday event free to attend?

A: Yes, the public celebration is completely free. You may need a reservation for the balcony greeting, and the afternoon Greeting Book signing is open to all without reservation.

Q: Can I take photos of the Imperial Family?

A: Photography is generally permitted, but be respectful. Flash photography directed at the Imperial Family is discouraged.

Q: Are the East Gardens open on February 23rd?

A: No. The East Gardens are closed on the Emperor’s Birthday due to the special palace events. Plan to visit the East Gardens on a different day.

Q: How early should I arrive?

A: For the balcony greeting, arrive by 8:00 AM or earlier. Security lines can take over an hour.

Q: Is the event accessible for people with disabilities?

A: The Imperial Household Agency makes accommodations for visitors with disabilities. Contact them in advance for specific assistance.

Q: Can I bring children?

A: Yes, but be prepared for long waits and large crowds. The experience may be overwhelming for very young children.

Q: What if it rains?

A: The event typically proceeds regardless of weather. Bring an umbrella and waterproof layers.

Q: Is there food available inside the palace grounds?

A: No food is sold within the palace grounds during the event. Eat before you enter or bring small snacks.

Resources and Official Links

For the most current and accurate information, consult these official sources:

• Imperial Household Agency – Emperor’s Birthday Information
• Imperial Palace East Gardens Official Page
• Imperial Palace Guided Tour Reservations
• Japan-Guide.com – Imperial Palace Overview
• Chiyoda Tourism Association