
The Spring Public Opening of Inui Street (乾通り) allows the public to walk through a normally restricted area of the Tokyo Imperial Palace grounds. This special opening occurs twice a year to coincide with the spring cherry blossoms and the autumn foliage. The route extends approximately 750 meters from the Sakashita-mon Gate to the Inui-mon Gate on the northern side of the palace. Along the path, visitors can view over 70 cherry trees of various species set against the palace’s historic stone walls and moats. Near the end of the walk, visitors have the option to exit toward the East Gardens.
Because the street is located within the active grounds of the Imperial Palace, all visitors must undergo security screenings, including baggage inspections and metal detector checks, at the entrance. Due to the event’s popularity, significant wait times are common, particularly on weekends. Detailed information and entry requirements are provided on the official website of the Imperial Household Agency. See here for a run-down of places to see the cherry blossoms in Tokyo.