Image search results - "inui-dori" - JAPAN PHOTOS by Philbert Ono

Image search results - "inui-dori"

Wow, amazing that we could get in so quickly. This was the entrance to Inui-dori, Sakashita Gate.

Sakashita Gate

Sakashita Gate on the other side.

Imperial Palace Chowaden, where formal banquets are held and where the Imperial family appears in public for New Year's and Emperor's Birthday.

On this fine day on March 31, 2016, 66,950 people visited Inui-dori. During March 25–April 3, 2016, a total of 508,010 visited Inui-dori.

Pass by the Imperial Household Agency. They control the lives of the Imperial Family.

Imperial Palace Fujimi turret and Marunouchi office buildings. Tradtional vs. modern.

More info in Japanese: http://www.kunaicho.go.jp/event/inui.html

Inui-dori is a somewhat narrow paved path along a moat. It has small cherry trees and autumn foliage.

Fujimi Tamon, defense house. 富士見多聞

It was still too early, about 2-3 days before full bloom. But this was the last sunny day before clouds and rain that were forecast.

Fujimi Tamon, defense house. 富士見多聞

In spring 2016, cherry blossoms in Tokyo took 9 days to reach peak bloom due to the warm winter. Longer than usual. So they extended the days when the public can see Inui-dori.

Long house

Weeping cherry tree, too early.

Fujimi Tamon, defense house. 富士見多聞

Lots of people, but very civil. No pushing or shoving. No time limit either. I took my time, taking pictures.

Dokan Moat, named after the founder of Edo Castle.

Dokan moat

Midway, there is a bridge to go to the garden area.

Inui-dori is overrated. But because it's the Imperial Palace and the path is not normally open to the public, it has the image of exclusivity so lots of people want to see it.

They will do major gardening work from this year, so Inui-dori will not be open this fall and next spring. Have to wait until fall 2017 to see this again.