As for the imperial palace -- if it deserves to be called that -- it is surrounded by a muddy moat and plaster walls enclosing a central compound, which looks like a concrete condo. Tourists are forbidden from crossing the moat, so you can enjoy the view of the police barricades, gravel parking lot, police vehicles, and a short trail through the woods with azalea bushes, pine trees, and willows. There is a bridge with two arches, if you have never seen a bridge before. They don't want you to be too amazed by it, so it's blocked off with police barricades. Also be sure to stare at the green grass lawns that are fenced off with iron grills, since Tokyoans are amazed at the sight of lawns. Once a year, you can join crowds of emperor worshippers waving flags at the emperor, who stands behind a bulletproof glass window. The imperial palace experienced frequent rocket attacks in the past from communist college kids, so there is a heavy police presence to make sure you do not launch one too.
