This 17th-century castle complex was once a seat of unfathomable power and wealth.
The construction of Nijo Castle was ordered by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1601, and was finally completed 25 years later. Sections of Fushimi Castle were also added as building neared completion. To ensure their security, the Tokugawa Shogunate had two stone fortifications, each with a moat, built around the two palatial complexes.
At the heart of Nijo Castle is the opulent Ninomaru Palace. This consists of five different buildings, all connected. Ninomaru Palace is built from a special native cypress tree, 'hinoki'. Rooms are lavishly decorated with wood carvings and gold gilding the shoguns set out to impress, and few visitors can fail to be. In all, there are over 30 rooms to explore here. These include the Willow Room, Young Pine Room, and a series of Grand Chambers. As you walk about, you'll notice how the floors make a singular squeaking noise. These are 'nightingale' floors, specially designed to warn sleeping inhabitants of stealthy intruders.
The second palatial complex is Honmaru Palace. This was originally similar to its companion palace. It suffered from numerous fires, and is now rebuilt in late Edo style. The palace is not regularly open to the public, so check ahead for special dates. If you do manage to get inside, look out for the paintings by Japanese masters such as Kanō Eigaku.
Once you've seen the palaces, it’s time to take in Nijo Castle's historic gardens. There are a number of different gardens and orchards within the complex, so allow plenty of time to see them all. The cherry and plum trees look particularly spectacular in spring and autumn. Ninomaru Garden was designed by the celebrated landscape artist and tea master Kobori Enshu. It's made up of three islands on a large pond, connected by bridges. Seiryū-en Garden, meanwhile, boasts two tea houses. Over 1,000 specially-arranged stones can be marvelled at here too.
Buses from Kyōto Station to Nijo Castle take around 20 minutes. Car parking is also provided. Nijo Castle is open daily, barring Tuesdays on certain months.
