Gaze upon the Main Gate. This isn’t just any gate. It’s the formal entrance to the Imperial Palace. Imagine the Emperor himself passing through. He uses it only for important state occasions. State guests also use it. Ambassadors present their credentials here. They even have the option of a horse-drawn carriage. The Main Gate opens to the public only on January 2nd and for the Emperor’s birthday.
This magnificent gate wasn’t always here. It was built in 1912 in a traditional style called kabuki-mon. Look closely. The top section depicts the morning sun rising above auspicious clouds. The doors showcase ocean waves and arabesque patterns. Clever design right? Steel poles set in thick-cut granite support it. Originally the doors were made of various types of iron. The Main Gate is a fusion of Japanese spirit and Western techniques. It represents Japanese taste combined with Western technology. The renowned architect Chuta Ito designed this masterpiece. In 1988 they replaced the original doors and top section with aluminum alloy replicas. You can see the originals at Komaba Campus.
Cross two bridges to enter the palace grounds. The Main Gate Stone Bridge and the Main Gate Iron Bridge. The Iron Bridge is also known as the Nijubashi Double Bridge. Don’t be fooled though. The name refers to the single iron bridge not both bridges. During the Edo period it was a wooden bridge reinforced with another underneath. This is why it’s called the double bridge. The palace buildings are cleverly hidden behind trees to the right of the Nijubashi. The most iconic view is of the Stone Bridge the Main Gate and the Iron Double Bridge with the Fushimi watchtower in the distance. That’s a postcard perfect picture.
The Main Gate is more than just an entrance. It’s a symbol of imperial power. A testament to architectural skill and a window into Japan’s rich history. Remember this view as you continue your journey.