皇居を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・関連情報・10の質問を通して、皇居に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 皇居の場所と役割
- 東京都千代田区（東京駅の近く）にあり、現在の天皇家の居住地
- 国家の重要な儀式や行事が行われる場所でもある
- 歴史的背景
- もともとは江戸城（徳川幕府の本拠地）であった
- 1868年の明治維新後に皇居となった
- 江戸時代からの建造物（石垣や堀）が現存
- 東御苑
- 皇居の一部で、一般に開放されている庭園
- 江戸時代の石垣や堀の遺構が残っており、季節ごとに美しい花や木々を楽しむことができる
- 二重橋
- 皇居の象徴的なスポットで、多くの観光客が写真を撮る場所
2人が皇居について話しています。
江戸城から皇居への歴史的変遷、東御苑や二重橋などの見どころ、一般参賀の機会、ジョギングコースとしての利用などを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey, Key! I’ve been thinking about visiting the Imperial Palace lately. Do you know much about it?
Oh, the Imperial Palace? Yeah, it’s a fascinating place, especially if you’re interested in Japanese history. It used to be Edo Castle during the Tokugawa shogunate, right?
That’s right! I read that after the Meiji Restoration, it became the Emperor’s residence. I’d love to learn more about its history and explore the gardens.
The palace itself isn’t open to the public except on special occasions, like New Year’s Day and the Emperor’s birthday. But the East Gardens are always open, and you can walk around the outer grounds.
I heard the East Gardens are beautiful, with some remnants of Edo Castle still there. Do you think it’s worth visiting?
Definitely! You can see the old stone walls and moats from the Edo period. The gardens change with the seasons, so whether it’s spring with cherry blossoms or autumn with colorful leaves, it’s always a nice experience.
I’ve also seen pictures of that famous bridge… Nijubashi, right? It looks stunning!
Yes, Nijubashi Bridge is one of the most iconic spots at the palace. A lot of people take photos there because it’s such a picturesque view with the palace in the background.
I’ve never been inside the palace grounds during those special events. Have you ever gone to see the Imperial family?
Not yet, but it’s on my list. On January 2nd, the public can go inside to see the Emperor and his family greet everyone. I hear it’s really special.
That sounds amazing! The palace must have so much history and culture. It’s incredible that such a peaceful place exists right in the middle of busy Tokyo.
Yeah, it’s like an oasis. You can walk around the palace’s outer area, which is about 5 kilometers, and it’s very popular for jogging. It’s so quiet compared to the city outside.
I think I’d love that, a peaceful run around the palace. But besides running, what else is there to see?
Well, there’s also Fushimi Tower, which is a watchtower from the Edo Castle days. It’s a reminder of how important this place was for defense. You can’t go inside, but it’s a cool piece of history to see.
I didn’t know that! I’d love to see all these historical spots. And the palace must be really popular, right?
Oh yeah, it’s one of Tokyo’s main attractions. Tourists love it for the history, and locals enjoy the gardens and running paths. It’s like everyone can find something they enjoy there.
That makes sense. I’ve read that the palace is surrounded by beautiful nature, too. The gardens, the moats, and the trees must be stunning, especially in spring or autumn.
Exactly! The seasonal changes make it worth visiting multiple times. The cherry blossoms in spring are incredible, and in autumn, the leaves turn such beautiful colors.
I think I’ll start with a walk in the East Gardens and maybe plan to visit during one of the public events. There’s so much history and beauty to explore.
Sounds like a great plan. You’ll love it, especially if you enjoy learning about Japanese history and culture. The Imperial Palace really is a unique place.
Thanks for all the info, Key. I feel like I understand the palace so much better now. Can’t wait to visit and learn more firsthand!
No problem! Let me know how it goes when you visit. Maybe we can go together sometime!
関連情報 / related information
「皇居」について、理解を深めるための「英語での関連情報」です。
皇居
Location and Role
The Imperial Palace is located in the center of Tokyo. It is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. The palace is surrounded by large gardens, moats, and stone walls, creating a peaceful environment in the middle of the busy city. It is not only the home of the Emperor but also a place where important national ceremonies are held.
Historical Background
The site of the Imperial Palace used to be Edo Castle, the headquarters of the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the Emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, and Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace. Today, parts of the original Edo Castle remain, especially in the East Gardens.
Main Features
The East Gardens are open to the public, and visitors can see beautiful seasonal flowers and trees, as well as historical remains from Edo Castle. One of the most famous sights is Nijubashi, a double-arched bridge that is a popular photo spot. The palace grounds are also popular with runners, as there is a 5-kilometer path around the outside.
Special Events
The public can enter the palace grounds only on special occasions, like New Year’s Day and the Emperor’s birthday. During these events, the Imperial family greets the people from the palace balcony.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「皇居」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is the Imperial Palace?
The Imperial Palace is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. It is located in central Tokyo and was built on the former site of Edo Castle.
2: What is the history of the Imperial Palace?
The palace was originally Edo Castle, the center of power during the Edo period. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the Emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, and Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace.
3: Can the public visit the Imperial Palace?
The palace itself is closed to the public, except on special occasions like New Year’s Day and the Emperor’s birthday. However, the East Gardens are open to visitors year-round.
4: What can you see in the East Gardens?
In the East Gardens, visitors can see seasonal flowers, old stone walls, and remains from Edo Castle, such as moats and gates. It’s a peaceful place to walk.
5: What is Nijubashi?
Nijubashi is a double-arched stone bridge at the Imperial Palace. It is one of the most famous landmarks and a popular spot for photographs.
6: Why is the Imperial Palace important?
The Imperial Palace is important because it is the residence of the Emperor and a key place for national ceremonies. It also has a rich history, connected to Edo Castle and the Meiji Restoration.
7: How large is the area around the Imperial Palace?
The area around the Imperial Palace covers about 5 kilometers. Many people enjoy walking or jogging around the palace grounds, as the outer path is very scenic.
8: What special events take place at the Imperial Palace?
On January 2nd and the Emperor’s birthday, the public can enter the palace grounds to see the Imperial family. These events draw large crowds.
9: Is there a connection between Edo Castle and the Imperial Palace?
Yes, the Imperial Palace is built on the site of Edo Castle, which was the headquarters of the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period.
10: Why do tourists visit the Imperial Palace?
Tourists visit the Imperial Palace to learn about its history, enjoy the beautiful gardens, and see famous landmarks like Nijubashi. The palace’s mix of history and nature makes it a popular attraction.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey, Key! I’ve been thinking about visiting the Imperial Palace lately. Do you know much about it?
ねぇ、キー！最近、皇居に行ってみようかなって考えてるんだけど、どれくらい知ってる？
Oh, the Imperial Palace? Yeah, it’s a fascinating place, especially if you’re interested in Japanese history. It used to be Edo Castle during the Tokugawa shogunate, right?
あぁ、皇居ね？うん、すごく興味深い場所だよ、特に日本の歴史に興味があるならね。江戸時代の徳川幕府の時は江戸城だったんだよね？
That’s right! I read that after the Meiji Restoration, it became the Emperor’s residence. I’d love to learn more about its history and explore the gardens.
そうなんだよ！明治維新の後に天皇の住居になったって読んだよ。歴史をもっと知って、庭園も散策してみたいな。
The palace itself isn’t open to the public except on special occasions, like New Year’s Day and the Emperor’s birthday. But the East Gardens are always open, and you can walk around the outer grounds.
宮殿自体は特別な時、例えば新年や天皇誕生日以外は一般公開されてないんだ。でも東御苑はいつでも開放されてるし、外周を歩くことはできるよ。
I heard the East Gardens are beautiful, with some remnants of Edo Castle still there. Do you think it’s worth visiting?
東御苑がすごく綺麗で、江戸城の遺構も残ってるって聞いたんだけど、行ってみる価値あるかな？
Definitely! You can see the old stone walls and moats from the Edo period. The gardens change with the seasons, so whether it’s spring with cherry blossoms or autumn with colorful leaves, it’s always a nice experience.
もちろんだよ！江戸時代の古い石垣や堀も見られるし、庭園も四季折々に変わるんだ。春の桜や秋の紅葉なんかは特に素晴らしいよ。
I’ve also seen pictures of that famous bridge… Nijubashi, right? It looks stunning!
あの有名な橋の写真も見たよ…二重橋だよね？すごく美しいよね！
Yes, Nijubashi Bridge is one of the most iconic spots at the palace. A lot of people take photos there because it’s such a picturesque view with the palace in the background.
そうそう、二重橋は皇居で最も象徴的なスポットの一つだよ。宮殿を背景にした景色が本当に絵になるから、多くの人が写真を撮ってるんだ。
I’ve never been inside the palace grounds during those special events. Have you ever gone to see the Imperial family?
特別なイベントの時に皇居の中に入ったことがないんだ。皇室の方々を見に行ったことある？
Not yet, but it’s on my list. On January 2nd, the public can go inside to see the Emperor and his family greet everyone. I hear it’s really special.
まだ行ったことないけど、行ってみたいと思ってるよ。1月2日には一般参賀があって、天皇陛下や皇室の方々がみんなに挨拶するんだって。すごく特別な体験みたいだよ。
That sounds amazing! The palace must have so much history and culture. It’s incredible that such a peaceful place exists right in the middle of busy Tokyo.
それはすごいね！皇居にはたくさんの歴史や文化が詰まってるんだろうな。こんなに忙しい東京の中心に、そんな静かな場所があるなんて信じられないよ。
Yeah, it’s like an oasis. You can walk around the palace’s outer area, which is about 5 kilometers, and it’s very popular for jogging. It’s so quiet compared to the city outside.
そうなんだよ、まるでオアシスみたいな場所なんだ。皇居の外周は約5キロあって、ジョギングにも人気なんだよ。外の都会と比べると本当に静かなんだ。
I think I’d love that, a peaceful run around the palace. But besides running, what else is there to see?
それはいいね、皇居の周りを静かに走るのは楽しそうだな。でも、ジョギング以外に何か見どころってあるの？
Well, there’s also Fushimi Tower, which is a watchtower from the Edo Castle days. It’s a reminder of how important this place was for defense. You can’t go inside, but it’s a cool piece of history to see.
うん、それに伏見櫓っていう江戸城時代の見張り台もあるよ。ここが防御の要だったことを思い出させる建物だね。中には入れないけど、歴史を感じられるスポットだよ。
I didn’t know that! I’d love to see all these historical spots. And the palace must be really popular, right?
そんなの知らなかったよ！そういう歴史的なスポット全部見たいな。皇居って本当に人気があるんだろうね？
Oh yeah, it’s one of Tokyo’s main attractions. Tourists love it for the history, and locals enjoy the gardens and running paths. It’s like everyone can find something they enjoy there.
うん、東京の主な観光地の一つだよ。観光客は歴史に魅了されるし、地元の人も庭園やランニングコースを楽しんでる。みんながそれぞれ楽しめる場所だと思うよ。
That makes sense. I’ve read that the palace is surrounded by beautiful nature, too. The gardens, the moats, and the trees must be stunning, especially in spring or autumn.
なるほどね。皇居は美しい自然に囲まれてるって読んだことがあるよ。庭園や堀、木々が特に春や秋にはすごく綺麗なんだろうね。
Exactly! The seasonal changes make it worth visiting multiple times. The cherry blossoms in spring are incredible, and in autumn, the leaves turn such beautiful colors.
その通りだよ！四季の変化があるから何度でも行く価値があるんだ。春の桜は本当に素晴らしいし、秋の紅葉もとても綺麗だよ。
I think I’ll start with a walk in the East Gardens and maybe plan to visit during one of the public events. There’s so much history and beauty to explore.
まずは東御苑を散策してみて、それから一般公開されるイベントの時に行ってみようかな。探索すべき歴史や美しさがたくさんあるね。
Sounds like a great plan. You’ll love it, especially if you enjoy learning about Japanese history and culture. The Imperial Palace really is a unique place.
いい計画だね。特に日本の歴史や文化に興味があるなら絶対に楽しめるよ。皇居は本当に特別な場所だよ。
Thanks for all the info, Key. I feel like I understand the palace so much better now. Can’t wait to visit and learn more firsthand!
いろいろ教えてくれてありがとう、キー。皇居のことがすごくよくわかったよ。早く訪れて、実際にもっと学びたいな！
No problem! Let me know how it goes when you visit. Maybe we can go together sometime!
どういたしまして！行ったら感想を聞かせてね。いつか一緒に行けたらいいね！
関連情報 / related information
皇居
Location and Role
The Imperial Palace is located in the center of Tokyo. It is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. The palace is surrounded by large gardens, moats, and stone walls, creating a peaceful environment in the middle of the busy city. It is not only the home of the Emperor but also a place where important national ceremonies are held.
皇居は東京の中心に位置しています。日本の天皇の公式な住居です。宮殿は広大な庭園、堀、そして石垣に囲まれており、忙しい都市の中にある静かな環境を作り出しています。皇居は天皇の住まいであるだけでなく、重要な国家の儀式が行われる場所でもあります。
Historical Background
The site of the Imperial Palace used to be Edo Castle, the headquarters of the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the Emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, and Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace. Today, parts of the original Edo Castle remain, especially in the East Gardens.
皇居の場所は、かつて江戸時代に徳川幕府の本拠地であった江戸城があった場所です。1868年の明治維新後、天皇は京都から東京に移り、江戸城は皇居となりました。現在でも、特に皇居東御苑には江戸城の一部が残っています。
Main Features
The East Gardens are open to the public, and visitors can see beautiful seasonal flowers and trees, as well as historical remains from Edo Castle. One of the most famous sights is Nijubashi, a double-arched bridge that is a popular photo spot. The palace grounds are also popular with runners, as there is a 5-kilometer path around the outside.
東御苑は一般公開されており、訪問者は季節ごとの美しい花や木々、そして江戸城の歴史的な遺構を見ることができます。最も有名な景観の一つは二重橋で、写真撮影の人気スポットです。また、皇居の外周には5キロメートルのランニングコースがあり、ランナーにも人気です。
Special Events
The public can enter the palace grounds only on special occasions, like New Year’s Day and the Emperor’s birthday. During these events, the Imperial family greets the people from the palace balcony.
一般の人々が皇居の敷地内に入れるのは、新年や天皇誕生日などの特別な時だけです。これらのイベントでは、皇室の方々が宮殿のバルコニーから国民に挨拶をされます。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is the Imperial Palace?
皇居とは何ですか？
The Imperial Palace is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. It is located in central Tokyo and was built on the former site of Edo Castle.
皇居は日本の天皇の公式な住居です。東京の中心にあり、かつての江戸城の跡地に建てられました。
2: What is the history of the Imperial Palace?
皇居の歴史は何ですか？
The palace was originally Edo Castle, the center of power during the Edo period. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the Emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, and Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace.
皇居は元々、江戸時代の権力の中心であった江戸城でした。1868年の明治維新後、天皇は京都から東京に移り、江戸城が皇居になりました。
3: Can the public visit the Imperial Palace?
皇居は一般公開されていますか？
The palace itself is closed to the public, except on special occasions like New Year’s Day and the Emperor’s birthday. However, the East Gardens are open to visitors year-round.
宮殿自体は新年や天皇誕生日の特別な時を除いて一般公開されていませんが、東御苑は一年中公開されています。
4: What can you see in the East Gardens?
東御苑では何が見られますか？
In the East Gardens, visitors can see seasonal flowers, old stone walls, and remains from Edo Castle, such as moats and gates. It’s a peaceful place to walk.
東御苑では、季節ごとの花々や古い石垣、江戸城の堀や門などの遺構を見ることができ、散歩に最適な静かな場所です。
5: What is Nijubashi?
二重橋とは何ですか？
Nijubashi is a double-arched stone bridge at the Imperial Palace. It is one of the most famous landmarks and a popular spot for photographs.
二重橋は皇居にある二重構造の石橋です。最も有名なランドマークの一つで、写真撮影に人気の場所です。
6: Why is the Imperial Palace important?
なぜ皇居は重要なのですか？
The Imperial Palace is important because it is the residence of the Emperor and a key place for national ceremonies. It also has a rich history, connected to Edo Castle and the Meiji Restoration.
皇居は天皇の住居であり、国家の重要な儀式が行われる場所であるため重要です。また、江戸城や明治維新と深く関わる歴史があります。
7: How large is the area around the Imperial Palace?
皇居の周辺の広さはどれくらいですか？
The area around the Imperial Palace covers about 5 kilometers. Many people enjoy walking or jogging around the palace grounds, as the outer path is very scenic.
皇居の周辺は約5キロメートルあります。外周の道は景色が美しいため、多くの人が散歩やジョギングを楽しんでいます。
8: What special events take place at the Imperial Palace?
皇居ではどのような特別なイベントが行われますか？
On January 2nd and the Emperor’s birthday, the public can enter the palace grounds to see the Imperial family. These events draw large crowds.
1月2日と天皇誕生日には、一般の人々が皇居の敷地内に入り、皇室の方々を見ることができます。これらのイベントは多くの人を集めます。
9: Is there a connection between Edo Castle and the Imperial Palace?
江戸城と皇居には関係がありますか？
Yes, the Imperial Palace is built on the site of Edo Castle, which was the headquarters of the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period.
はい、皇居は江戸時代に徳川幕府の本拠地であった江戸城の跡地に建てられています。
10: Why do tourists visit the Imperial Palace?
なぜ観光客は皇居を訪れるのですか？
Tourists visit the Imperial Palace to learn about its history, enjoy the beautiful gardens, and see famous landmarks like Nijubashi. The palace’s mix of history and nature makes it a popular attraction.
観光客は皇居の歴史を学び、美しい庭園や二重橋などの有名なランドマークを見るために訪れます。歴史と自然が融合した魅力が皇居の人気の理由です。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
restoration : 名詞
意味: 修復、復興。The process of returning something to its original condition or bringing it back into use.
（明治維新は日本の政治的な復興を指す）
例文：
- The restoration of the old building took several years.
「その古い建物の修復には数年かかりました。」 - After the war, the restoration of the city was a major task.
「戦後、都市の復興は大きな課題でした。」 - The government focused on the restoration of traditional culture.
「政府は伝統文化の復興に注力しました。」
residence : 名詞
意味: 住居、居住地。A place where someone lives, especially an official home.
(皇居は天皇の公式な住居を意味する）
例文：
- The president’s official residence is a large mansion.
「大統領の公式な住居は大きな邸宅です。」 - They have moved to a new residence in the city.
「彼らは新しい住居に引っ越しました。」 - The residence permit allows foreigners to live in the country.
「居住許可証は外国人がその国に住むことを許可します。」
remnant : 名詞
意味: 残り、遺物。A small remaining part of something, often from the past.
（江戸城の遺構として一部が残っていることを指す）
例文：
- The ruins are the remnants of an ancient civilization.
「その遺跡は古代文明の遺物です。」 - Only a few remnants of the old wall remain.
「その古い壁の遺構はほんのわずかしか残っていません。」 - The remnants of the castle can still be seen in the garden.
「庭にはまだ城の遺構を見ることができます。」
picturesque : 形容詞
意味: 絵のように美しい。Visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way.
（二重橋が風光明媚であることを表現する際に使用）
例文：
- The village is known for its picturesque scenery.
「その村は絵のように美しい景色で知られています。」 - We stayed in a picturesque cabin by the lake.
「私たちは湖畔の絵のように美しい小屋に泊まりました。」 - The bridge offers a picturesque view of the river.
「その橋は川の美しい眺めを提供します。」
watchtower : 名詞
意味: 見張り塔。A tower built to observe and guard a specific area.
（江戸城時代の防御の要としての伏見櫓を指す）
例文：
- The soldiers stood guard in the watchtower overlooking the border.
「兵士たちは国境を見下ろす見張り塔で警戒していました。」 - From the watchtower, you can see the entire valley.
「見張り塔からは谷全体が見渡せます。」 - The old watchtower was part of the castle’s defense system.
「その古い見張り塔は城の防御システムの一部でした。」