The Imperial Palace: The Emperor’s Home

Situated in Chiyoda, Tokyo, the Imperial Palace is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. Positioned on the former location of Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace is a massive park area surrounded by enormous stones right in the heart of Tokyo.
Japan was ruled by Tokugawa Shogun from the Edo Castle during the period of 1603 to 1867. Shogunate was defeated in 1868 and as a result the capital and Imperial Palace of the nation was moved to Tokyo. It was in 1888 that the creation of the new Imperial Palace commenced which was later destroyed due to the World War two. However, following the devastation, the palace was restored according to its former glory.
Located in close proximity to the Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace consists of different types of buildings like the private house of the imperial family and the main palace. This charming palace occupies a land area of 3.41 square kilometres including the beautiful gardens. The modern day palace boasts multiple structures which are connected to each other. It was constructed by Takenaka Corporation according to contemporary style revealing some fine Japanese architectural styles.
The complex today includes 7 wings, namely Seiden State Function Hall, Homeiden State Banquet Hall, Chowaden Reception Hall, Rensui Dining Room, Chigusa Chidori Drawing Room and the Emperor’s work office. The palace is a venue for hosting state ceremonies and receiving state guests. The Pine Chamber also known as the Matsu-no-Ma is the emperor’s throne room.
On New Year’s Day and on the Emperor’s birthday, the public gets the opportunity to enter the palace through the Nakamon or inner gate. During these special days the imperial family makes their prestigious public appearance on the balcony. The Emperor addresses the jubilant crowd with a special speech and wishes them good health and prosperity.
This amazing palace can be closely explored by staying at a Tokyo luxury hotel. Most Luxury accommodation in Tokyo offers world class facilities together with warm hospitality and friendly service. For instance, Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo provides facilities that suit both business and leisure travellers.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged

Touring in London


London is one of the most fascinating, exciting and phenomenal cities in the world with lots to see and do. It is the capital of the United Kingdom and is the biggest metropolis in the European Union.


London is abound with leisure and theme parks, art galleries, museums, Olympic sized sports venues, world renowned theatres, shopping, dining venues and so much more. It is also recognised as one of the well connected cities in the world.


One of the most interesting places to visit in London is the West End which is a popular city shopping and entertainment district. For instance, Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square are famous tourist attractions. Meanwhile the West London area is famous for the chic and residential Notting Hill and Chelsea.


A must see place in this exciting city is the eminent Windsor Castle which has been the home of the Royal Family for a period of about 900 years. It is also the oldest occupied castle in the world. Visitors can go back in time to about 5000 years ago when they visit the amazing Stonehenge.


Bath with its graceful Georgian architecture, streetscapes, abbey and Pulteney Bridge is also a treat to watch while touring in London.


The Tower of London which is named a World Heritage site is also a must see place here. Travellers can also witness the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, enjoy a cruise along the River Thames and even explore the magnificence of St Paul’s Cathedral at this unparalleled city.


Museum lovers too will have lots to do in this outstanding city. Among the many distinct and diverse museums are the Museum of London, Geffrye Museum, the Science Museum, Sir John Soane’s Museum, the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, National Maritime Museum, Horniman Museum and the Natural History Museum.


Other captivating attractions include the Westminster Abbey, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, the National Gallery, The London Eye, Madame Tussauds Wax museum and much more.


There are numerous London hotels that offer easy access to many of these mesmerizing attractions. Among the wide choice of London luxury hotels, The Langham London is one that stands out due to its superb range of facilities and professional service.