Nijo Castle: Kyoto’s Magnificent Samurai Treasure
Guide to Kyoto's Nijo Castle
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Imagine stepping into a realm where samurais roamed and shoguns ruled. Kyoto’s Nijo Castle is a treasure trove of history and culture that transports you back to Japan’s feudal history through a vivid journey. Built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the grandeur and intrigue of the Edo period.
Its formidable stone walls, majestic gates, intricate interiors and sophisticated gardens, it captures the essence of Japan’s past, making it a must-visit for those captivated by history, architecture, or the beauty of Japanese culture. This iconic landmark keeps a lot of original structures and combines traditional and early modern styles, inviting visitors to explore its many secrets.
What is Nijo Castle?
Nijo Castle (二条城), or Nijo-jo, is a historic castle located in the heart of Kyoto. Constructed as a second residence for Tokugawa Ieyasu, it symbolizes the power and influence of the shogunate era. The castle complex includes two main structures, Ninomaru and Honmaru, surrounded by expansive gardens and fortifications. Because of its rich design that integrates several architectural styles, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the Edo period.
What to See and Do at Nijo Castle
- Explore Ninomaru Palace: Admire the beautiful and intricate wall and ceiling paintings and pay attention to the famous “nightingale floors”. These floors make a creaking noise when you walk on them. However, current historical sources do not clarify if this effect was intentional or not. Some theories believe this was probably a security mechanism against intruders since it’s impossible to walk without making a sound unless you were highly skilled and used to this place. But it seems that efforts to replicate the same effect with known construction techniques have been unsuccessful.
- Stroll through Ninomaru Garden: The other main attraction of this site, designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, where you can enjoy the traditional Japanese landscape with ponds, islands, and meticulously maintained plants.
- Visit Honmaru Palace: Though access is limited, the exterior and surrounding gardens are worth seeing.
- Discover Seiryu-en Garden: The garden design combines Japanese and Western influences, as a later addition from 1965. This is an eclectic garden that includes structures from other former buildings from the area and features two tea houses, Waraku-an and Kou-tei, although the latter is normally closed to the general public.
- Attend Seasonal Events: Nijo Castle is one of the best locations in Kyoto to enjoy events like cherry blossom viewings and autumn leaf illuminations.
- Visit the Painting Gallery: The latest feature of the complex, the gallery was opened in 2005 to display the original paintings preserved from the walls of Ninomaru Castle, as well as various original decorative artifacts. The exhibitions change regularly so it’s worth visiting more than once for those interested in the castle’s vast collection.
How to Get to Nijo Castle
The closest subway station is Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Line, just a short 3-min walk from the castle entrance. Otherwise, there’s also JR Nijo Station which is a 13-min walk away from the castle. Alternatively, several bus lines stop nearby from Kyoto Station. There are also parking facilities available but they can fill up quickly so it’s always better to use public transportation.
Tourist Attractions Near Nijo Castle
Naturally, the former imperial capital of Japan is filled to the brim with historical and cultural sites that you shouldn’t miss! Just to name a few of the more prominent spots in the vicinity:
1. Kyoto Imperial Palace
Just a short distance from Nijo Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace (京都御所) used to be the imperial residence between 1331 and 1869. The palace grounds include the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden and it’s completely free to visit. The vast garden serves as a natural retreat in the heart of the city so it’s a perfect location for a relaxing stroll while exploring the area.
Information
 Access |
14-min bus from Nijo Castle |
|---|---|
 Official Website |
http://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/guide/kyoto.html |
2. Nishiki Market
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, Nishiki Market (錦市場) is one of the most iconic spots in Kyoto, showcasing the best of the local gastronomical culture with countless delicacies and unique souvenirs. From fresh seafood to traditional sweets and everything in between, your Kyoto visit will not be complete unless you stop by for a meal and peruse the stall for souvenirs and delicious snacks. Beware of the sensory overload of sights, sounds, and tastes as everything will leave you craving for more. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
More info: Nishiki Market Tour: Food and Shopping Guide
3. Shijo-dori
Shijo-dori (四条通) is one of Kyoto’s main shopping streets, lined with department stores, boutiques, and traditional shops spanning all the way from Yasaka Jinja Shrine on the east to Matsunoo Shrine on the west. It’s the perfect place to find everything from high-end fashion to traditional crafts. The street is also home to many restaurants and cafes if you need a small break from shopping. If your wallet manages to survive Nishiki Market, the finishing blow awaits here.
See also: Kyoto Shopping Guide: 15 Best Places to Shop in Kyoto
4. Kyoto Samurai Experience
For a unique and hands-on cultural activity, the Kyoto Samurai Experience is just a 10-minute walk from Nijo Castle. Here, you can try tameshigiri, the traditional art of Japanese sword cutting, in a backyard setting. You will wear black hakama and listen to the soothing sounds of the shakuhachi flute and Buddhist singing bowls after the training session. This is one of the most authentic experiences for those wanting to don traditional attire and feel like a samurai for a day.
See also: 5 Best Samurai Experiences in Kyoto
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Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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