Situated within Kyoto Imperial Park, the Imperial Palace was the main residence of the Imperial Family until it was relocated to Tokyo in 1868. The precinct is defined by grand structures and expansive grounds bordered by long, imposing walls. The ‘Shishinden’ is the most important ceremonial building within the Kyoto Imperial Palace, in which enthronements ceremonies for Emperor Taisho and Emperor Showa took place. Sento Imperial Palace is another significant building within the precinct, a building that once acted as the residence for retired emperors.

To access Sento Imperial Palace visitors must join a free 1-hour tour. Tours are conducted only in Japanese however audio guides are available in several languages. The Kyoto Imperial Palace was previously only accessible on tours however visitors can now enter by themselves and without the need of advance reservations.