The shape of it
About
A national holiday marking the birthday of the reigning Emperor Naruhito. On most years the Imperial Palace in Tokyo opens its inner grounds for a public greeting, one of only two days a year visitors can enter.
Highlights
- Public greeting at the Imperial Palace, when the Emperor appears on the balcony
- One of only two days the palace inner grounds open to the public (the other is January 2)
- Fixed on February 23, the current emperor's birthday
Plan it well
- Banks and government offices are closed; most attractions remain open and busier.
- If you want to attend the palace greeting, confirm the schedule via the Imperial Household Agency beforehand and arrive early for security checks.
- Tokyo Station and the palace area get crowded — allow extra time.
