Kyoto Tower is a 131-meter-tall observation tower standing prominently in front of Kyoto Station. Since its opening in 1964, it has been embraced as a beloved landmark of Kyoto. The observation deck, located at 100 meters above ground, offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. On clear days, visitors can gaze upon the majestic Higashiyama Mountains and the iconic Daimonji Mountain. The tower is renowned for its stunning night views, which are highly acclaimed for their captivating beauty. At the base of the tower lies the “KYOTO TOWER SANDO” commercial complex, a hub of restaurants, cafes, and shops offering authentic Kyoto cuisine and souvenirs. It serves as a convenient resting spot for travelers during their sightseeing adventures. Kyoto Tower is recommended as a destination for foreign tourists to discover the new charms of the ancient city of Kyoto.
Kyoto Tower
A 131-meter Observation Tower Offering Breathtaking Views and Cultural Immersion in Kyoto
Highlights
The Best Panoramic View of Kyoto
The observation deck of Kyoto Tower offers an unparalleled vantage point to take in the breathtaking cityscape of Kyoto. During the day, visitors can appreciate the traditional streetscapes of the ancient capital, while at night, they can soak in the romantic night views. The observation deck is equipped with multilingual audio guides, providing informative commentary on Kyoto's famous landmarks.
A Culinary and Shopping Haven with Authentic Kyoto Flavors
The "KYOTO TOWER SANDO" complex at the base of the tower is a popular spot offering a wide array of Kyoto's renowned cuisine and souvenirs. Visitors can indulge in traditional Kyoto cuisine, savor local sweets, and explore a diverse selection of souvenirs. The complex also features well-equipped duty-free shops, making it an ideal destination for shopping.
Seasonal Events and Illuminations
Throughout the year, Kyoto Tower hosts various illumination and light-up events in sync with the changing seasons. During special occasions like Valentine's Day and Christmas, the tower is adorned with romantic lighting displays, creating a picture-perfect moment for social media enthusiasts.
Information
| Name in Japanese | 京都タワー |
| Postal Code | 600-8216 |
| Address | 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto |
| Telephone | 075-361-3215 |
| Holiday | Open every day |
| Business Hours | <Observation deck> 11:00am-7:00pm (Last admission 6:30pm) *Subject to change
<KYOTO TOWER SANDO> 11:00am-7:00pm (1F/2F), 11:30am-10:00pm (B1F) *Varies by store *Last order varies by restaurant *Opening hours are subject to change *New Year’s Day 6:30am-8:00am (for the first sunrise of the year), August 16 7:30pm-9:00pm (for special viewing event of Kyoto Gozan Okuribi, reservations are required) |
| Admission | Adults 900 yen, High school students 700 yen, Elementary/Middle school students 600 yen, preschoolers (age 3 and up) 200 yen |
| Directions | A 2-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station |
| Credit cards | Accepted |
| Official Website | Official Website |
FAQ
What are the operating hours of Kyoto Tower?
The observation deck is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:50 PM). The “KYOTO TOWER SANDO” commercial complex is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
How do I access Kyoto Tower?
Kyoto Tower is directly connected to Kyoto Station, located just a 2-minute walk from the station. It is easily accessible via JR, Kintetsu, and subway lines, making it a convenient base for sightseeing in Kyoto.
What can I see from the observation deck?
From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto’s famous temples and shrines, including the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, Higashi Hongan-ji, Nishi Hongan-ji, and Kiyomizudera. On clear days, the distant Higashiyama Mountains and the iconic Daimonji Mountain are visible, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the scenic beauty of the ancient capital. The night views are acclaimed for their romantic and breathtaking splendor.
