If you’re ever in Japan, make sure you make some time to see some beautiful Japanese palaces. One palace you should definitely visit is Akasaka Palace. Akasaka Palace (迎賓館) is located in Tōkyō. It was formerly the residence of Prince Hirohito, but after WWII the Palace was taken from the imperial family and used as a place for government meetings. The interior of the Palace was inspired by Western styles like the Neo Baroque style of interior design. It’s very luxurious. I wish I lived there!

Unlike Akasaka Palace, Heijō Palace (平城宮) is located in Nara (奈良). Also unlike Akasaka Palace, Heijō Palace was modeled on the Chinese styles of that time. The Heijō Palace was a spot of importance. The Palace was built when the capital of Japan was moved to Nara. Therefore Heijō Palace symbolized the new location of power in Japan. Over the years, Heijō Palace has been reconstructed several times. After all, the Palace was first built in 710 AD, so it went through a little wear and tear.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBrIOxv4K7A&NR=1

The Kyoto Imperial Palace (京都御所) contains a public park that used to be the residences of the nobles. In the past, the nobles lived in close quarters with the emperor. This was a strategy used by the emperors to keep an eye on the nobles and prevent any insurrections or rebellions. The Kyoto Palace has several gates that were used for different occasions. For example, there is a gate that was used only to welcome foreign envoys or high-ranking dignitaries. There is another gate that was used for coronation ceremonies.