Kyoto Imperial Palace was founded in 1337 and is open to the public year-round, with no ticket and no advance registration. The simplest way to give children something to hold on to is the free guided tour: there are English sessions in the morning and afternoon, they last under an hour, and you just turn up. If the timing does not fit, the free audio guide app lets you go at your own pace. Everyone passes a security check at the gate, and large bags stay outside. The part to plan around is food: eating is not allowed inside the palace, so have snacks and lunch before you go in or save them for afterwards. Photos are allowed, though camera stands are not.
Family FAQ
How much does Kyoto Imperial Palace cost?
Admission is free and no prior registration is needed.
What are the opening hours of Kyoto Imperial Palace?
Apr-Aug 9:00-17:00, Sept and Mar 9:00-16:30, Oct-Feb 9:00-16:00; closed Mondays (Tuesday if Monday is a holiday).
Can you bring your own food to Kyoto Imperial Palace?
Eating is not permitted inside the palace.
