The palace was originally constructed by architect Katayama Tokuma to emulate the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles.
The structure required over 100,000 workers and 2.5 million bricks during its construction period.
In 1974, the building was formally repurposed from the Crown Prince's Palace to its current role as the State Guest House.
The interior ceilings feature elaborate mural paintings that remain largely preserved in their original state.
The Main Building was the first Meiji-era structure to be officially recognized as a National Treasure.
The design includes unique earthquake-resistant innovations specifically adapted for the Japanese landscape in the early 20th century.
The Japanese-style annex was added in 1974 to provide a traditional environment for welcoming guests through tea ceremonies.
The building was the site of the first G7 summit hosted by Japan in 1979.
The State Guest House Akasaka Palace is the only facility in Japan designed to host foreign dignitaries, monarchs, and heads of state. Originally built as the Crown Prince's Palace in 1909, it is the sole Neo-Baroque style Western-style building in Japan. The complex features a main building, a Japanese-style annex, and expansive gardens. It was designated as a National Treasure of Japan in 2009. The architecture incorporates influences from French palace design, including limestone facades and ornate interior rooms like the Asahi-no-Ma and Hagoromo-no-Ma. The facility serves as a working diplomatic venue, often hosting state banquets and summit meetings. It is situated within the Motoakasaka area of Minato City, distinct from the Toshima administrative district mentioned in local records. Public access is managed through scheduled tours that allow visitors to view specific reception rooms and corridors.
The main courtyard facing the central limestone facade provides the most balanced perspective of the architecture.
Check the official website ahead of time, as the facility closes on short notice for official diplomatic events.
Bring a valid form of identification, as security screening is required for all visitors.
Wear comfortable footwear as the walking route through the main building and grounds is extensive.
Attempting to visit during unannounced diplomatic events when the palace remains closed to the public.
Closed on Wednesdays and periodically for state diplomacy; check the website calendar before arrival.
Photography is prohibited in certain interior rooms; remove hats and refrain from touching furniture or walls.
