World Heritage Site

Nijō Castle

A 20-minute walk to a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the urban center to a cultural district—
from the world of townspeople to the refined heritage of the samurai.

In this article, we introduce Nijō Castle, a World Heritage Site located just a 20-minute walk from our hotel. Leaving behind the lively, modern shopping areas such as Kawaramachi and Teramachi, you will find yourself stepping into what feels like another world. The vibrant atmosphere of merchant culture gradually gives way to the elegance of samurai culture. At Nijō Castle, visitors can experience Kyoto’s grand history while enjoying a quieter, more contemplative side of the city.

About Nijō Castle

Nijō Castle was constructed in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo shogunate. It served both as a residence in Kyoto and as a stronghold protecting the Imperial Palace. Its magnificent architecture symbolized the stability and authority of the shogunate when receiving the Emperor.

In 1867, the 15th shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, announced here the return of political power to the Emperor—an event that marked a major turning point in Japanese history.

Walking from the hotel to Nijō Castle allows you to experience this cultural transition firsthand. Along the way, you will encounter many scenes that capture Kyoto’s unique charm.

Karasuma Oike — Where Modernity Meets Tradition

The Karasuma Oike area is lined with office buildings and high-rises, reflecting Kyoto’s contemporary face. Yet nearby, renovated townhouses have been transformed into cafés, and historic brick architecture stands alongside new shops at Shinpuhkan, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.

Staying at our hotel in this district allows you to enjoy a uniquely Kyoto cityscape, where modern skylines and traditional machiya townhouses coexist.

Recommended Cafés & Spots in This Area

• Maeda Coffee Muromachi Main Store
  A long-established coffee shop beloved in Kyoto. Founded in 1971 (Muromachi location opened in 1981), it has remained a local favorite for decades. Though slightly removed from Karasuma Oike, it is well worth the detour.
  Open 7:00–18:00 (Closed Jan 1)

• Shinpuhkan
  A striking complex characterized by its historic brick façade. The preserved former Kyoto Central Telephone Office (built in 1926) is paired with a contemporary structure designed under the supervision of architect Kengo Kuma, making it a true crossroads of tradition and modern design.
  Shops 11:00–20:00 / Restaurants 10:00–22:00 / Cinema 9:00–23:00

The Merchant Culture District

On the way to Nijō Castle, you will pass shopping streets and traditional townhouses where the spirit of everyday life from the Edo period still lingers. Tofu shops, confectionery stores, and small roadside shrines offer glimpses into the daily rhythms of Kyoto residents.

For international visitors, this area provides a rare chance to experience a “real Kyoto” that is not overly commercialized.

Recommended Spot

• Mikane Shrine
  Suddenly appearing amid the city streets, this shrine is instantly recognizable by its golden torii gate. Dedicated to Kanayamahiko-no-Mikoto, it is revered as a deity of wealth, prosperity, and successful business, long supporting the commercial life of Kyoto’s townspeople.
  Open 24 hours (Amulet office 10:00–16:00)

Nijō Castle — A Symbol of Samurai Culture

After passing through the merchant district, the massive castle grounds come into view. This was a place that embodied the authority of the Edo shogunate and hosted momentous historical events—from the appointment of shoguns to the declaration restoring imperial rule.

Visitors are often struck by the realization that they can still walk, today, to a place that stood at the political center of Japan centuries ago.

Recommended Cafés & Spots Near Nijō Castle

• Kyoto Usagi Coffee
  A charming café housed in a renovated 100-year-old row house near the castle. In addition to coffee, the menu includes matcha lattes and other approachable options. The fusion of preserved original walls with modern renovations is part of its appeal.
  Open 10:00–19:00 (Irregular holidays, reservations not accepted)

• Colorado Coffee Shop Masusan
  A retro Showa-era café with a classic interior. Their morning set is highly recommended, especially the signature egg sandwich made with bread baked in their own adjoining bakery.
  Open 7:00–18:00 (Closed Thursdays, reservations not accepted)

TOPICS: Highlights of Nijō Castle

Staggered (Gankō-gata) Layout

The castle is designed in a staggered formation known as gankō-gata.
This layout allows each building to overlook the surrounding gardens. Interior paintings of pine trees are carefully composed to visually merge with the scenery beyond the sliding doors, creating a seamless unity between architecture and landscape.

“Nightingale Floors” (Uguisu-bari)

Nijō Castle features the famous uguisu-bari corridors—wooden floors that chirp when walked upon.
The sound resembles the call of a Japanese bush warbler (uguisu), hence the name “nightingale floors.” This ingenious design functioned as a security measure, alerting occupants to intruders and protecting the shogun and other important figures.

Writer’s Recommendation

Seasonal evening events are sometimes held at the castle, including spring cherry blossom illuminations and summer light-up programs. Projection mapping, festival-style stalls, and interactive digital installations offer a fresh way to experience the historic site—even for repeat visitors.
(Please check the official website for current schedules and details.)

Visitor Information

Nijō Castle
541 Nijōjō-chō, Nakagyō-ku, Kyoto
TEL: 075-841-0096

Opening Hours
8:45 AM – 4:00 PM (Castle closes at 5:00 PM)

Ninomaru Palace Closed
Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December
December 26–28
January 1–3

Honmaru Palace Closed
Every third Monday of the month and the following day
December 26–28
January 1–3

Admission Fees
Castle + Ninomaru Palace:
Adults ¥1,300 / Junior & Senior High ¥400 / Elementary ¥300

Honmaru Palace (additional ticket):
Adults ¥1,000 / Junior & Senior High ¥300 / Elementary ¥200
Castle admission only:
Adults ¥800 / Junior & Senior High ¥400 / Elementary ¥300

Official Website: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/