This is the official home of Japan’s emperor and the imperial family. For all the peace and quietude it offers, it’s hard to believe that this palace is located right in the heart of the city. The palace remains closed for general public viewing, but even in its closed state, its dramatic picturesque scenery set in an amazing backdrop amid moats, terraced gardens, wide open spaces and massive stone walls, complete with embedded Japanese historical anecdotes ensures that the palace ranks as one of the top attractions in the city. In spite of its central location, the garden is not at all touristy or crowded, which makes it a great place to hang around or relax. The sights of this scenic and traditional palace can best be captured by standing at a vantage point in the huge open park space right across the majestic palace known as Imperial Palace East Garden or Kokyo Gaien. With its neatly trimmed pine trees, colourful flowers and beautiful lawns, the piazza is the perfect lens to view the palace across the twin bridges of Nijubashi, the well-known symbol of the Imperial Palace.