What other travelers are saying about Akasaka Palace (State Guest House)
The State Guest House, Akasaka Palace, is a century-old building that has been exceptionally well preserved. It is about 10 minutes walk from Yotsuya subway station, you can see people walking their dogs and others are exercising.
At dusk, when the sunlight shines on the building, it looks magnificent and almost golden. The palace has hosted many political leaders. What impressed me the most was the beautiful fountain in the garden.
The peaceful surroundings making it a perfect place to sit quietly and relax.
State Guest House Akasaka Palace is Japan’s official state guest house and a fine example of Western-style architecture from the Meiji era.
Completed in 1909 as the residence of the Crown Prince, it later became a venue for hosting foreign leaders and diplomats. The Neo-Baroque design reflects Japan’s early engagement with the international community and makes this one of the best places to see the cultural fusion of East and West from the late 19th to the early 20th century.
The gardens are spacious and allow visitors to spend time at a relaxed pace. Despite being located in the heart of Tokyo, the atmosphere is remarkably quiet. Reservations are required, but the site can be enjoyed simply as architecture, history, and space, with no formal or ceremonial expectations.
We visited on a blistering summer day...the kind of day when even the statues look like they’re sweating. Unfortunately, the interior was off-limits due to a tour already in progress, which was a shame because that shade looked five-star.
Still, the palace grounds are spectacular. Think “French elegance meets Japanese precision,” with fountains so symmetrical they could make a geometry teacher cry. The gates gleam like they were polished by angels, and even the guard huts look like something out of a Wes Anderson movie.
Bonus points to the staff for setting up cooling tents — classy hospitality with a hint of survival. If you can, time your visit for when tours aren’t happening… or bring a parasol and pretend you’re royalty waiting for your carriage.
I had an excellent experience here and I highly recommend taking the guided tour at the Japanese Garden as well as visiting the Main Building! The architecture and the arts were stellar - so many things to learn and delight. The guided tour requires advanced reservation though. I wish they offered more hours options instead of just 2 on weekend for English speakers.
Also, staff members were polite and courteous. Although security was strict, they made us feel at ease. I would definitely return to enjoy my time here.
📍Asakasa Palace, State Guest House
¥1500 entry fee adult
It was awesome! Photos/videos not allowed inside, but it’s cool coz you get to focus on the intricate details, the vastness of each room, high ceilings, pristine white walls and gold trimmings. We had fun exploring each room.
Outside, you can film around the property and the grand fountain.
There were tables and chairs in the front lawn during our visit.
You can bring bottled water, and they’d make you take a sip/drink from it before allowing it in. No food allowed.
Some groups were in a guided tour, but we just came on our own.
Yes, when no official functions are scheduled. Advance online reservations are required. The palace closes during state events, so check the official website for availability before visiting.
Admission to the main building tour costs ¥1,500 for adults and ¥500 for university and high school students. If you want to visit both the main palace and the Japanese-style annex Yūshintei, a combined ticket is available for ¥2,000 for adults. Junior high school students and younger can enter for free.
The palace is located approximately a 7-minute walk from Yotsuya Station, which is served by the Marunouchi and Nanboku subway lines. The station provides convenient access from major areas of Tokyo. Visitors should allow extra time for security screening upon arrival, as all guests must present identification and pass through security checks.
Tours include the palace's main state rooms such as the Main Hall with its grand staircase, the Chō-shun-no-ma (Hall of Butterflies and Birds) with Gobelin tapestries, the Kacho-no-ma (Flower and Bird Room) featuring elaborate ceiling paintings, and the Asahi-no-ma (Morning Sun Room) used for state banquets. The optional Japanese-style annex Yūshintei showcases traditional architecture and gardens. Photography is permitted in designated areas throughout the tour.
