INTRODUCTION
The Akasaka State Guest House is a magnificent building located in the heart of Tokyo and is known as a venue for important Japanese diplomatic and international events. Originally built in the Meiji era (1868-1912) as accommodations for the Imperial Family, the Guest House was renovated as a guest house in 1974 and is now used to receive many foreign honored guests.
The main attraction of the Akasaka State Guest House is its gorgeous, ornate architecture and beautiful garden. The neo-baroque building features an elegant design reminiscent of European palaces, with magnificent chandeliers and lavish furnishings inside. In addition, the expansive garden features a harmonious blend of Japanese and Western-style gardens, offering a variety of seasonal landscapes.
The guest house is open to the public, so visitors can tour its beautiful architecture and gardens. In particular, regularly scheduled guided tours are offered by professional guides who provide detailed explanations of the building’s history and cultural background. Many areas are also available for photography, and there are many spots for social networking.
A visit to the Akasaka State Guest House will be a special experience among Tokyo sightseeing tours. You will be able to fully enjoy Japanese culture and hospitality while appreciating its elegant atmosphere and historical value. This article provides detailed information on how to enjoy the Akasaka State Guest House. We will provide you with useful information to help you plan your sightseeing and make your trip to Tokyo even more special.
History and Culture of Sightseeing Destinations
The Akasaka State Guest House attracts many visitors with its magnificent architecture and rich historical background. The facility was originally built as the Crown Prince’s Palace during the Meiji era and served as the residence of the Crown Prince. It was designed by one of Japan’s leading architects, Tokuma Katayama, and completed in 1909. The neo-baroque style building, which was the culmination of Japanese technology and aesthetics of the time, attracted attention in Japan and abroad for its beauty and grandeur.
In 1974, the Akasaka State Guest House was completely renovated and transformed into the guest house it is today. As an important facility for the Japanese government to receive foreign guests, many international conferences and official dinners were held here. As the center of Japan’s diplomatic activities, the guesthouse has supported important national events.
The building itself is reminiscent of a European palace, with its lavish interior and delicate decoration. Inside, magnificent chandeliers, beautiful murals, and exquisitely carved furniture leave visitors amazed and impressed. The expansive grounds also include a Japanese garden and a Western-style garden, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the seasons. The ponds, bridges, and trees in the garden give visitors a sense of the natural beauty and serenity of Japan.
As for cultural features, the works of art and historical artifacts on display in the guest house are not to be missed. These exhibits are valuable resources for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese history and culture. In addition, the Guest House offers regular tours with professional guides to learn more about the building’s history and cultural significance.
The historical background and cultural value of the Akasaka State Guest House make it a very attractive tourist destination for visitors from Japan and abroad. By visiting, you will experience firsthand the history and traditions of Japan and its modern hospitality. Experience the richness of Japanese culture through this magnificent building and its beautiful gardens.
Places to visit
Akasaka Geihinkan attracts many visitors with its magnificent architecture and beautiful gardens. Here are some suggested times to visit, main attractions, and things to keep in mind when visiting.
Suggested times of year to visit
The best times to visit Akasaka Geihinkan are spring and fall. In spring (March to May), the cherry blossoms in the garden are in full bloom, providing a beautiful hanami (flower viewing) experience. Autumn (September through November) is the best time to visit, when the leaves are in full bloom and the entire garden is tinged with red and yellow. During these seasons, the mild climate is ideal for strolling. A visit on a cool summer morning or in the clear winter air will also give you a taste of the charm of each season.
Main attractions and popular places of interest.
Main Gate and Main Entrance.
- From the moment you visit, you will be overwhelmed by the grandeur of the Guest House’s ornate main gate and main entrance. The beautiful iron gate and marble staircase are popular photo spots.
Central Entrance Hall.
- Upon entering the building, the first thing you will see is the central entrance hall. With its ornate chandeliers and magnificent decorations, this hall is the centerpiece of the Guest House.
Asahi Room.
- This is the main banquet hall of the Guest House, where important international conferences and banquets are held. The ceiling is decorated with beautiful frescoes, and the room is furnished with luxurious furniture.
Japanese Garden.
- A traditional Japanese garden is located on the grounds of the Guest House. Ponds, stone bridges, and seasonal flowers delight visitors. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in fall are especially worth seeing.
Western-style garden.
- In contrast to the Japanese Garden, the Western-style garden offers spacious lawns and beautiful flowerbeds. The garden is filled with seasonal flowers and offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Points of Attention at Sightseeing Spots
When visiting Akasaka Geihinkan, please note the following points.
- Advance Reservations: Advance reservations are required to tour the interior of the Guest House. Please check the official website for the latest information and make a reservation.
- Photography: Photography may not be allowed in some areas. Please follow the instructions of the staff and enjoy taking photos with good manners.
- Clothing: The Guest House is a prestigious place. We recommend that you wear clothing that is not too casual.
- Punctuality: Please allow plenty of time for your visit.
Access
Access to Akasaka Guest House is very convenient from major transportation hubs in Tokyo. Here are some specific access options from Tokyo Station, Narita Airport, and Haneda Airport.
Access from Tokyo Station
When using the train
- JR Chuo Line and Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line: Take the JR Chuo Line rapid train from Tokyo Station to Yotsuya Station. From Yotsuya Station, it is approximately a 5-minute walk to Akasaka Geihinkan. It takes about 15 minutes.
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line: From Tokyo Station, take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and get off at Yotsuya Station. It takes about 10 minutes. It is about a 5-minute walk from Yotsuya Station.
Access from Narita Airport
If you take the train.
- Narita Express (N’EX) and JR Chuo Line: Take Narita Express from Narita Airport to Shinjuku Station. At Shinjuku Station, transfer to the JR Chuo Line and get off at Yotsuya Station. The trip takes about 90 minutes. It takes about 5 minutes on foot from Yotsuya Station.
- Keisei Skyliner and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and Tokyo Metro Namboku Line: Take the Keisei Skyliner from Narita Airport to Ueno Station. From Ueno Station, take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, change to the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line at Ginza Station, and get off at Yotsuya Station. The trip takes about 80 minutes. It is approximately a 5-minute walk from Yotsuya Station.
If you take a bus
- Limousine Bus: Take a limousine bus from Narita Airport to Tokyo City Air Terminal (TCAT), and take a cab from TCAT to Akasaka Geihinkan in about 15 minutes. The total time required is approximately 120 minutes.
Access from Haneda Airport
If you take the train
- Tokyo Monorail, JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line: Take the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport to Hamamatsucho Station. From Hamamatsucho Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line and disembark at Tokyo Station. From Tokyo Station, transfer to the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and disembark at Yotsuya Station. The trip takes about 45 minutes. It is approximately a 5-minute walk from Yotsuya Station.
- Keikyu Line and Toei Asakusa Line, Tokyo Metro Namboku Line: From Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station. From Shinagawa Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line at Tokyo Station and get off at Yotsuya Station. The trip takes about 50 minutes. It is approximately a 5-minute walk from Yotsuya Station.
If you use the bus
- Limousine Bus: Take a limousine bus from Haneda Airport to Tokyo City Air Terminal (TCAT), and take a cab from TCAT to Akasaka Geihinkan in about 15 minutes. The total time required is approximately 90 minutes.
Hours of Operation, Admission Fees
When visiting Akasaka Geihinkan, it is important to check the opening hours and admission fees in advance. Here are the details of Akasaka Geihinkan’s business hours and admission fees.
Hours of Operation
There are days when advance reservations are required to visit the Akasaka State Guest House and days when admission is available with a same-day ticket. Please refer to the following operating hours.
- Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last admission at 4:00 p.m.)
- Closed: Wednesdays (closed the following day if Wednesday is a national holiday), New Year’s holidays (December 29 through January 3), and when there are official events at the Guest House.
It is recommended to check the official website of Akasaka Geihinkan for the latest opening and closing dates.
Admission Fees
Admission fees for the Akasaka State Guest House are as follows.
- General tour area (Honkan and Main Garden) Adult: 1,500
- Adults: 1,500 yen
- Students (junior high school, high school, and university students): 1,000 yen
- Elementary school students and younger: Free
- 65 years old and over: 500 yen (ID required)
- Persons with disabilities and one caregiver: Free (certificate required)
- Special tour areas (Honkan, Main Garden, Japanese-style Annex)* Adults: 2,000 yen
- Adults: 2,000 yen
- Students (junior high school, high school and university students): 1,500 yen
- Elementary school students and younger: Free
- 65 years old and over: 1,000 yen (ID required)
- Persons with disabilities and one caregiver: Free (certificate required)
Other Information
- Reservations: Tours can be reserved in advance through the official website. Same-day tickets may be available, but advance reservations are recommended.
- Guided Tours: Tours by professional guides are offered periodically at Akasaka Geihinkan. Please check the official website for details.
- Please note: Security checks will be conducted, so be sure to bring your ID. Photography is prohibited in some areas of the museum.
Summary
Akasaka State Guest House is a magnificent building located in the heart of Tokyo, known as a facility for welcoming foreign honored guests. Built in the Meiji era (1868-1912) as accommodations for the imperial family, it was renovated as a guesthouse in 1974. It features gorgeous neo-baroque architecture and a beautiful garden, and is open to the public. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves can be enjoyed. The main gate, central entrance hall, Asahi Room, Japanese garden, and Western-style garden are the main attractions. Admission is 1,500 yen for adults in the general tour area and 2,000 yen in the special tour area. It takes about 15 minutes by train from Tokyo Station, about 90 minutes by train from Narita Airport, and about 45 minutes by train from Haneda Airport.
A visit to the Akasaka State Guest House is a special experience to experience Japanese history and culture through its gorgeous architecture and gardens. Please check the access, opening hours, and admission fees in advance to plan a pleasant visit. We hope your trip to Tokyo will be even more special.
