Imperial Plaza Kokyo Gaien
 

is this free access to the public here?.....is it worth while seeing?

Is it worth seeing ? That's a tough one.

It is worth it to walk around the grounds though it's VERY limited.

If the gardens interest you, you might be better off going to Shinjuku-gyoen which is now a park but was the original Imperial gardens.

Think it was 200 Yen admisson







Bear in mind these are from early March so it's not as green as it would be later on.

Worthwhile? Compared to what? :D

The gardens are OK, and the wall for the moat is really impressive. Over 20' high (as I recall) and not a bit of mortar. If you're not going to other castles in Japan, I personally feel it is worth seeing for the walls themselves.

Note that right next to the gardens is the Imperial Palace; reservations are required.