Sento Palace

48 of 75 in attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace (京都仙洞御所) is a historic secondary palace located across from the Kyoto Imperial Palace in Kyoto Imperial Park. Built in 1630 as the retirement residence of Emperor Gomizuno, it became the residence for subsequent retired emperors. After the original palace buildings were destroyed by fire in 1854, Omiya Palace was built on the grounds in 1867, and it now hosts the emperor during his Kyoto visits.

Visitors to Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace can enjoy a free guided tour by the Imperial Household Agency. The tour explores the beautiful strolling garden, featuring the North and South Pond areas. Though visitors can't enter the palace buildings, they can peek inside the Seikatei teahouse and admire imperial design.

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Hours and Fees

Sento Palace

Entrance fee
Free tours of Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace are available several times a day. To join, apply in advance with your passport at the Imperial Household Agency's office in Kyoto Imperial Park (8:40 to 17:00, closed on Mondays). Some spots can be reserved online, but they often fill up quickly and need to be booked days in advance. A limited number of same-day tickets are also available at the palace from 11:00, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Getting there

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Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace is in Kyoto Imperial Park. From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line for about 10 minutes, then get off at Marutamachi or Imadegawa Station. Both are a 15-minute walk to the palace entrance.