Tokyo Tourism Booms as Imperial Palace Opens Inui-dori for Autumn Leaf Viewing for the First Time This Season

Published on November 30, 2025

Tokyo has welcomed a wave of domestic and international tourists as the Imperial Palace opens Inui-dori, a 600-metre tree-lined walkway inside the palace grounds, for a special nine-day autumn foliage viewing event. According to the Imperial Household Agency, the path—lined with around 70 maple trees of various cultivars—is accessible only twice a year, making this seasonal opening a rare opportunity for visitors.

From 9 a.m. on opening day, crowds began to enter through Sakashita-mon Gate, with families, photographers, and travelers from around the world gathering to admire the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of Tokyo’s peak autumn season. The serene atmosphere inside the palace grounds provides a striking contrast to the city’s urban energy, offering one of the most tranquil fall experiences in the capital.

A Historic Cultural Landmark in Central Tokyo

The Imperial Palace is among Japan’s most historically significant locations. While the main palace remains closed to the public except during special occasions, visitors can explore areas such as:

• The East Gardens, open year-round
• Historic foundations of Edo Castle
• Traditional Japanese landscape gardens

The temporary opening of Inui-dori enhances the cultural value of the palace for autumn visitors, offering unprecedented access to one of Tokyo’s most restricted and historically rich areas. The combination of fall foliage and imperial architecture creates an unmissable experience for travelers seeking authentic seasonal scenery.

Autumn in Tokyo: A Season of Scenic Beauty

Japan is globally celebrated for its autumn landscapes, and Tokyo transforms into a mosaic of warm colors during November. While well-known destinations such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Meiji Shrine, and Ueno Park attract large crowds, the Imperial Palace stands out as one of the most significant cultural sites to enjoy the season’s colors.

At Inui-dori, the maple trees create a dramatic tunnel of foliage, offering:

• Ideal locations for photography
• Quiet spaces for reflection
• An immersive view of Japan’s seasonal transition

The imperial backdrop adds historical depth, making the experience both visually captivating and culturally meaningful.

Growing International Interest in Seasonal Tourism

Japan continues to see an increase in international visitors during autumn, fueled by widespread promotion from JNTO and travel agencies highlighting the appeal of seasonal events. This year, the Imperial Palace’s autumn access has drawn particular attention, with travelers arriving to experience both the scenic beauty and accompanying cultural events.

Autumn festivals, exhibitions, and traditional performances held across Tokyo complement the leaf-viewing season, enriching the experience for visitors interested in cultural exchange. The fusion of history, nature, and seasonal festivities provides travelers with an in-depth understanding of Japanese culture.

A Rare and Exclusive Viewing Opportunity

Because Inui-dori is open for only nine days, the limited access boosts tourism demand and creates a sense of exclusivity. Visitors plan their trips carefully to align with the brief opening period, making the event one of Tokyo’s most anticipated autumn highlights.

This seasonal opening is part of ongoing efforts by the Japanese government and the Imperial Household Agency to promote the palace grounds as a carefully managed cultural space accessible to the public during select periods. These initiatives support Tokyo’s global reputation as a destination that blends tradition, nature, and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The opening of Inui-dori at the Imperial Palace has become one of Japan’s standout autumn attractions, inviting visitors to enjoy a rare combination of seasonal beauty and historical significance. The vivid maple leaves, the peaceful atmosphere of the palace grounds, and the cultural backdrop of Tokyo create an unforgettable experience for travelers.