House of Councillors

Sangiin

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A unique opportunity to witness the heart of Japanese politics firsthand. Open to the public with reservations.

Historic Sites

Tourist destination images of House of Councillors(1)

Tourist destination images of House of Councillors(2)

HighlightsWitness Japanese politics firsthand by touring the chamber and plenary hall.
Explore members' offices and committee rooms, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the political process.
Learn about the history and role of the House of Councillors, deepening your understanding of politics.
Receive detailed explanations from security personnel, enhancing your knowledge of the House of Councillors.
Experience the heart of Japanese politics up close.

Basic Information

Address: 1-7-1 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Search for tourist attractions in Tokyo

Access: A 4-minute walk from Kokkai-gijidomae Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Chiyoda Lines). A 2-minute walk from Nagatacho Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon, Yurakucho, and Namboku Lines). A 2-minute walk from Akasaka-mitsuke Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Ginza Lines). A 10-minute walk from Tameike-sanno Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza and Namboku Lines). Show route

Op.Hours: Monday to Friday (excluding weekends and year-end/New Year holidays), every hour on the hour from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please arrive 5 minutes prior to your desired time slot. *On days when plenary sessions are held, observation will be suspended from one hour before the scheduled opening time until the adjournment. Please check the schedule here (“Meeting Schedule”). Please note that observation may be suspended without notice due to circumstances within the Senate building.

Cld.Days: Weekends and year-end/New Year holidays

Fee: Free

INFO: Groups of 10 or more require prior reservations. Reservations are not needed for groups of 9 or fewer. For group reservations, please contact us from the first weekday of the month three months prior to your desired date using the following methods: School Group Reservations (Elementary, Junior High, and High Schools): Download the "Observation Reservation Application Form (PDF)" below, fill it out, and submit it directly to the observation reception window or by FAX. Group Reservations (Other than School Groups): Please contact the Senate Guard Division's Public Observation Section in advance (TEL: +81-3-5521-7445).

HP: http://www.sangiin.go.jp/

Overview

The House of Councillors is one of Japan's legislative bodies, playing a crucial role in lawmaking and budget approval alongside the House of Representatives. As a representative body of the people, it strives to create policies that reflect the will of the Japanese citizens. A tour of the House of Councillors allows you to explore the Diet building, members' offices, and committee rooms, witnessing the center of Japanese politics up close. The building itself is an iconic symbol of Japan, its majestic atmosphere leaving a lasting impression. You'll also get a glimpse into the daily work of the parliamentarians in their offices and committee rooms, deepening your understanding of politics. Furthermore, you'll receive information about the history and role of the House of Councillors, enhancing your knowledge of Japan's political system. A visit to the House of Councillors provides an invaluable opportunity to learn about and understand Japanese politics. Experience Japanese politics firsthand – visit the House of Councillors!