Japan is an island nation situated in the Indian Ocean and is home to the oldest continuing hereditary monarchy on earth. The position of His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Japan, was a role formulated in 660 BC and even though, in modern times, the incumbent Emperor’s role is largely ceremonial, the mere fact of its existence is noteworthy and is a cause for celebration.
Up until the 19th century, the Emperor of Japan resided in the Kyoto Imperial Palace and subsequently relocated to the Tokyo Imperial Palace in order to facilitate the preservation of the former Palace. One of the most important and definitely one of the oldest structures in Japan, the Palace has witnessed many fires and reconstructions and therefore, the Palace that can be seen today was built in the 19th century. Presently maintained by the Imperial Household Agency, it also co-ordinates and organizes a number of public tours of this former royal residence so that tourists and citizens alike can bask in its glory as the architectural styles of several generations such as the Kogosyo, the Shisinden and the Seiryoden styles converge to create a Palace of majestic beauty and splendor. The Imperial Palace has successfully preserved the proud heritage of the Japanese and is a monument of pride for the country.
For a prospective visitor, there are several pieces of information that is important prior to a visit. One must first apply for a visit, either online or in person and indicate the number of persons who will be visiting. Be careful when confirming this number for it cannot later be changed without a new application.
Especially when travelling in a group, Kyoto accommodation must be selected carefully. The best advice would be to opt for Kyoto serviced apartments that are centrally located to the palaces, world heritage and cultural attractions that you wish to make a visit to. Choosing to stay at Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto would be an ideal choice for it is located within the vicinity of Kyoto’s tourist belt and is also just in front of the Gojo subway, making transport convenient and quick.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
