This video offers a detailed walking tour of the East Garden of the Imperial Palace (皇居東御苑, Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen) in Tokyo during a rainy May day. Despite the wet weather, the area is lively with visitors, demonstrating the popularity and allure of this iconic site even in inclement conditions. The lush new greenery of late spring provides a vivid backdrop, capturing the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscaping unique to this historic location.

The East Garden, part of the inner palace area, is open to the public and is renowned for its beautifully maintained lawns, seasonal flowers, and remnants of Edo Castle, such as moats and stone walls. The garden is especially scenic in late spring when the vegetation is at its freshest. During the rainy season in Japan (tsuyu), the palace gardens take on a uniquely tranquil quality, with rainwater accentuating the vibrant colors of the trees and ground cover.

Located in the center of Chiyoda Ward, the East Garden is easily accessible from central Tokyo and serves as a fantastic introduction to both the history and nature of the city. Notable sights within the East Garden include the Ninomaru Garden, the foundation of the old Edo Castle main keep, and traditional Japanese landscaping. Visitors can stroll along winding paths lined with maples, pines, and azaleas, as well as seasonal blooms. Even in the rain, this area remains a testament to Japan’s blending of natural beauty and historical significance.

For those planning a visit, the East Garden is typically open to the public on most days, except Mondays and Fridays. It is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from Otemachi or Tokyo Station. The rainy ambiance captured in this video provides a serene, authentic view of the gardens as experienced by many locals and tourists, highlighting why the Imperial Palace grounds remain one of Tokyo’s most cherished green spaces.