of two tatami was set aside for dignitaries and aristocrats to sit. Here was where the Emperor could conduct formal affairs. On the north side of the hall was an enclosed area where the Emperor would sleep at night; later, Emperors began to use the official residence. The west side was set aside for the Emperor's breakfasts, and also contained the lavatories, while the south side was used by the keeper of the Imperial Archives. This area contained paintings by the masters of the Tosa school, and just outside, various rare bamboos were planted. The original structure was built as the Emperor's residence at the end of the 8th century and was used until the 11th century. The Seiryō-den was rebuilt in this location in 1790 CE, on a smaller scale than the original building but preserving the original structure. Kogosho The is a place where the Emperor received bannermen under the direct control of the Tokugawa shogun (buke). It was also used for some rituals. This distinctive building shows a blend of architectural elements of shinden zukuri and shoin zukuri styles. The Kogosho Conference was held here on the night of December 9, 1867, the declaration of the restoration of imperial rule (osei fukko). The structure burnt down in 1954 and was reconstructed in 1958. Ogakumonjo The study hall was for reading rites, a monthly poetry recital and also a place the Emperor received nobles. It is a shoin zukuri style building with an irimoya hiwadabuki roof. Otsunegoten The was used as the Emperor's residence until the capital was transferred to Tokyo in 1869. It is the largest structure of the palace with fifteen rooms. Facing it is the Gonaeitei garden. Osuzumisho The is the summer residence for the Emperor. Koshun The is a study hall that was used by Emperor Komei, who reigned from 1846 to 1866. Omima The was used for unofficial ceremonies such as the Star Festival and the Bon festival. The Palace's is walking distance from JR Nijō Station. See also Kyoto Gyoen National Garden References External links Official website Official English guide of Kyoto Imperial Palace 公益財団法人菊葉文化協会 Houses completed in 1855 Buildings and structures in Kyoto Gardens in Kyoto Prefecture Imperial residences in Japan Tourist attractions in Kyoto 1855 establishments in Japan