Tokyo is oddly warm, yet autumn deepens.
Palaceside faces the palace turning color. Public opening of "Inui Path" for autumn leaves runs Dec 3 (Wed)–7 (Sun)—usually closed. Commemorates the Emperor's 80th birthday last year.
Palaceside is normally closed Sundays, but Dec 7
Sunday opens like Saturday. Most restaurants and cafes will operate—stop by coming or going. Dec 3–6 open as usual.
Imperial Household Agency says Inui Path has 45 Japanese maples and 14 trident maples. They waited for peak color—should be splendid.
Entry 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (last entry 2:30). Enter Sakashita-mon southeast, pass east of Hasuike moat, exit Inui-mon one-way. Detour to East Gardens
and Kitahanebashi or Hirakawa gates possible (map top right—Agency site). Free. Details: Agency site or phone 03-3284-6780.
Spring cherry opening (Apr 4–8) drew 385,000 in five days—crowds overflowed =photo left. This time should be huge too.