The Kyoto Sentō Imperial Palace was originally built in 1627 as a retirement residence for Emperor Go-Mizunoo. Located within the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden (Imperial Palace Park), the original structure was lost to fire, but the site remains famous for its elegant Japanese gardens, serene ponds, ancient pines, and traditional pavilions.

It is separate from the Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) but lies just next to it within the same grounds.

Entrance fee: Free, but reservation is required (online via the Imperial Household Agency or sometimes on-site if slots are available).
Touristy? Not very. Access is highly regulated—guided tours only, available in Japanese or English.
Tip: Book your visit in advance here → sankan.kunaicho.go.jp (English site available).