FAQ

Q1Where can I check whether the State Guest House is open and see upcoming closure dates?

A1.The latest information is posted on the “Public Opening Schedule” page.
In principle, the State Guest House is closed every Wednesday and during the New Year holiday period. If Wednesday falls on a national holiday, it will be closed on the following weekday instead. Please note that the facility may also close temporarily when hosting distinguished guests from overseas or for operational reasons. Before visiting, be sure to check the “Public Opening Schedule” page and the official X account of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace.

Q2Can I visit on the same day without making a reservation?

A2.Yes. The Main Building (for groups of up to 19 people) and the gardens can be visited without a reservation.
However, advance online reservations are required for visits to the Japanese-style Annex and for groups of 20 or more visiting the Main Building.

Q3 When can I make a reservation, and where do I apply?

A3. Reservations are generally accepted from about four weeks before your desired visit date through the “Public Opening Application System“.
Reservations cannot be made by telephone or postcard. Changes or cancellations can be made online until noon on the day before your visit.
Note: Individual visitors and groups of up to 19 people do not need a reservation.

Q4 What are the visiting hours?

A4. Opening hours are normally from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Please note that the last admission time varies depending on the area you wish to visit.
・Last admission to the Main Building: 4:00 p.m. (3:30 p.m. for the Premium Visit.)
・For the Japanese-style Annex, please enter through the West Gate at least 30 minutes before your reserved time and arrive at the Annex meeting point at least 10 minutes before your reservation time.
・Last admission to the gardens: 4:30 p.m.

Q5How long does it take to visit all areas?

A5.Approximate visit times are as follows:
・Main Building and gardens only: about 60 to 90 minutes
・Japanese-style Annex (guided visit) + Main Building and gardens: about 2 to 2.5 hours
・If you also include afternoon tea in the Front Garden: add about 30 to 60 minutes

Q6Is it still enjoyable to visit on a rainy day?

A6. Yes. The interior of the Main Building can be visited comfortably regardless of the weather.
Rainy days can actually be a good time to enjoy the designated National Treasure decorations and magnificent ceiling paintings in a calmer atmosphere. Please note, however, that there is no roof over the route to the Japanese-style Annex or the garden walking areas, so you are advised to bring an umbrella. Umbrella stands are available at the entrance. Afternoon tea in the Front Garden may be canceled in case of rain.

Q7Are there days or times when it is less crowded?

A7. In general, weekday mornings and the period after 3:00 p.m., closer to closing time, tend to be less crowded and more comfortable for visiting. Weekends, public holidays, and periods when special events are held are expected to be busier. For real-time congestion information, please also check the top page of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace website and its official X account.

Q8When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?

A8. Edo-higan cherry trees can usually be seen from early to mid-March, Somei-yoshino and weeping cherry trees from mid-March to early April, and double-flowered cherry trees from early April onward. In addition, the State Guest House grounds contain around 180 species and 20,000 trees, allowing visitors to enjoy seasonal flowers and greenery throughout the year.
Guided garden tours are also held. Please check the “News” section of this website for dates and details.

Q9Are there any tourist attractions nearby besides the State Guest House?

A9. The State Guest House is about a 7-minute walk from Yotsuya Station, making it a convenient stop as part of a sightseeing route in central Tokyo.
[Related site] Minato City Official Website | Tourism in Minatoopens in a new window

About Access and Facility Use

Q10Is there parking or bicycle parking?

A10.There is no parking lot or bicycle parking at the State Guest House. Please use public transportation.
The nearest station is Yotsuya Station (JR Chuo Line, Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, and Namboku Line), about a 7-minute walk from the Akasaka Exit.
Nearby facilities where large buses can park are listed below. Please contact each facility directly for details.
・Nanko Parking: Kokyo Gaien (Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace)opens in a new window Tel: 03-3231-5509
・Meiji Jingu Gaien Kaigakan Parkingopens in a new window Tel: 03-3401-0787
・Shinjuku Gyoen Okido Parkingopens in a new window

Q11Can I visit in a wheelchair?

A11. Yes. You may enter the Main Building while remaining in your wheelchair. An elevator accessible to wheelchair users is available for moving between floors inside the Main Building. If you need assistance, please ask a nearby staff member.
Please note that the Front Garden is paved with stone and the Main Garden has gravel paths, so extra care is required when moving around in a wheelchair. If you have difficulty moving or need assistance, please do not hesitate to ask a nearby staff member.
Please also note that the Japanese-style Annex is not accessible by wheelchair because the building is too narrow for wheelchair use.
If it is difficult for you to reach the venue by public transportation, or if getting in and out of a vehicle near the State Guest House is difficult, please contact the State Guest House Operations Section (TEL: 03-3478-1111).

Q12Can I leave a stroller somewhere?

A12. Yes. If you have a stroller, you may leave it free of charge at the baggage storage area before entering the Main Building.

Q13Can I visit with babies or small children? Is there a nursing room or a diaper-changing area?

A13. Yes. Families with infants and small children are welcome. The following facilities are available:
・Diaper-changing area: Changing tables are available in the multipurpose restroom near the entrance to the Main Building. Multipurpose restrooms are also available at the Rest Area in front of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace.
・Nursing room: A private room for nursing can be arranged. Please ask a nearby staff member if you wish to use one. A nursing room is also available at the Rest Area in front of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace.
・Stroller storage: Strollers may also be left free of charge at the baggage inspection area or baggage storage before entering the Main Building.

Q14Are there lockers?

A14. Yes. Free lockers are available. If you have large luggage that does not fit in the lockers, please ask a staff member for assistance.

Q15If I arrive before the 10:00 a.m. opening time, is there anywhere I can sit and wait?

A15. Yes.
The Rest Area in front of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace opens at 9:00 a.m., so you may wait there until the State Guest House opens at 10:00 a.m.

Q16Is there a dress code for visiting?

A16. No special formal attire is required. You may visit in everyday clothing. However, please note the following:
・Comfortable walking shoes are recommended: Because there are gravel paths in the gardens and stone paving in the Main Garden, sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
・Clothing that may not be allowed: Entry may be refused if clothing is considered to significantly undermine the dignity and atmosphere of the State Guest House or may make other visitors uncomfortable. Please refer to the “Prohibited Items and Visitor Guidelines” for details.

Q17Can I pay the admission fee by credit card or electronic money?

A17. Yes.
At the ticket vending machines on site, the following payment methods are available in addition to cash:
・Credit cards (JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, VISA, Mastercard, UC)
・Electronic money (Suica, PASMO, Kitaca, TOICA, manaca, ICOCA, SUGOCA, nimoca, Hayakaken, QUICPay+, WAON, nanaco, iD, Rakuten Edy)
・QR code payment (PayPay, d-barai, Merpay, auPay, J-coinPay, Rakuten Pay)

About the Visit and Visitor Services

Q18What is the Premium Visit?

A18. The Premium Visit is a new visitor route launched in July 2026. In addition to the existing route, visitors can access valuable areas that were previously closed to the public, including the East Room and the East and West Entrances, allowing them to discover new aspects of the State Guest House.
Visitors who purchase a ticket for this route will receive either an official guidebook or a set of picture postcards.
The Premium Visit costs an additional 400 yen on top of the regular admission fee.
For details, please see the “Visit Overview” page.

Q19How can I purchase a Premium Visit ticket?

A19. On the day of your visit, please purchase a separate Premium Visit ticket (400 yen) from the on-site ticket vending machine in addition to the Main Building admission ticket.

Q20Is there an audio guide explaining the building and furnishings?

A20. Yes. Audio guide devices are available for rental for a fee, allowing you to enjoy the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace in greater depth. You can tour the facilities at your own pace while listening to the explanations.
・Content: Detailed explanations of the history of the State Guest House, the architectural beauty of the building, and the furnishings in each room
・Fee: 400 yen per device (tax included)
・Rental location: Reception tent in front of the west entrance of the Main Building
・Available languages: Japanese, English, Korean, Chinese, French, and Spanish

Q21Are guided tours available?

A21. Yes. The type of visit depends on the area.
・Main Building and gardens: In principle, these areas are visited freely, and you may tour them at your own pace. Paid audio guides are available in the Main Building and are recommended for visitors who wish to learn more about the building’s history and design. Groups of 20 or more may apply in advance for a guided tour led by specialist staff for a fee.
・Japanese-style Annex: All visits are conducted as guided tours and require advance online reservation. Please check the “Japanese-style Annex Information” page for details.
・Garden (Main Garden): Guided garden tours led by specialist staff responsible for maintaining the State Guest House gardens are held occasionally. These tours are free, but the regular admission fee still applies. Please check the “News” section of this website for dates and details.

Q22Are there brochures or leaflets available for visitors?

A22. Yes.
Visitors can pick up the “State Guest House, Akasaka Palace GUIDE MAP” near the ticket machines. In addition, visitors who purchase a Premium Visit ticket will receive the “Official Guidebook” inside the Main Building, featuring beautiful photographs and explanations of the State Guest House. A leaflet for elementary school children and younger visitors is also available.

Q23Can I take photographs?

A23. Photography rules vary depending on the area. To protect valuable cultural properties and for security reasons, the following rules apply:
・Main Building and Japanese-style Annex (indoors): Photography is completely prohibited. Please keep cameras and smartphones in your bag.
・Front Garden and Main Garden (outdoors): Photography is allowed. Please enjoy taking commemorative photos with the National Treasure building exterior and fountains in the background.
・Posting on social media: Photos taken in the gardens are welcome to be shared on social media with the hashtag “#迎賓館赤坂離宮”.
*Please note: Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, and photography for commercial purposes are not allowed.

About Dining, Rest Areas, and Shops

Q24Is there anywhere to eat or take a break?

A24. Yes. A kitchen car is available in the Front Garden, and a cafe and shop are available at the Rest Area in front of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace.
・Kitchen car: Drinks and light meals are available in the Front Garden.
・Afternoon tea: Afternoon tea in the Front Garden, enjoyed while looking out at the Main Building, is very popular. Availability is limited and reservations are required.
・Restrictions on eating and drinking: Eating and drinking, including candy and chewing gum, are strictly prohibited inside the Main Building and in the Main Garden. Please enjoy food and drinks only in designated areas.

Q25Do I need a reservation for afternoon tea in the Front Garden?

A25. Yes. Advance reservation is required.
・How to reserve: Afternoon tea must be booked separately through a dedicated reservation website. It is not included in the visit reservation.
・Location: Terrace seating near the kitchen car in the Front Garden (outdoors)
・Please note: Service may be canceled in rainy weather. Even if you only use the afternoon tea service, a separate admission fee to the Front Garden (300 yen for adults) is required.

Q26Are there original goods or souvenirs from the State Guest House?

A26. Yes. These are sold at the shop near the Main Gate on your way out and at the Rest Area in front of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace.
Popular items include goods featuring the State Guest House crest, magnets, original sweets, postcards, and many other exclusive souvenirs available only here.
Payment methods: In addition to cash, various credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are accepted.

Q27What should I do with my trash?

A27. There are no trash bins inside the State Guest House or in the rest area. Please take your trash home with you.

Q28Are there drink vending machines?

A28. Yes. There are 2 near the baggage inspection area, 1 on the 3rd floor of Administrative Building No. 1, and 1 in the Main Garden.

Special Use of the Facilities

Q1What kinds of events can be held during special opening use?

A1.Various events may be considered for use at the State Guest House, provided that they do not harm its value as a cultural property or its dignity as a national guest reception facility. The event must also meet the conditions for use, such as contributing to international exchange representing Japan, promoting deeper understanding of Japan, or supporting important national policies.
Please see the “Special Use of the Facilities” page for details.

Q2Is special opening use free of charge?

A2.No. In principle, use of the facilities for special opening purposes is subject to a fee.

Q3Can private companies and civilian organizations also use the facilities?

A3.Yes, provided they meet the required conditions. However, political parties and other political organizations, as well as religious organizations, are not permitted to use the facilities. Please see the “Special Use of the Facilities” page for details on the conditions of use.