Kyoto Station was opened in 1997 to commemorate the 1,200th anniversary of Kyoto’s founding. This station stands as one of Japan’s most ambitious modern architectural projects. Designed by Hiroshi Hara—also the architect behind Osaka’s Umeda Sky Building—the station was envisioned as a self-contained urban ecosystem that contrasts yet coexists with Kyoto’s ancient heritage.

At its core is “The Matrix,” a dramatic 60-meter-high glass atrium framed by exposed steel beams. The architectural concept reflects the ancient grid layout of Kyoto, transforming historical urban logic into a contemporary spatial experience. Although initially controversial for its ultra-modern appearance, the station has become a defining symbol of modern Kyoto.

One of the station’s most iconic features is the Grand Staircase (Daikaidan) on the western side. With 171 steps illuminated by approximately 15,000 LEDs, it displays large-scale seasonal animations—cherry blossoms in spring, festival motifs in summer, autumn leaves, and a massive Christmas tree in winter. Above, the Skyway Tunnel on the 11th floor is a glass-walled pedestrian bridge suspended 45 meters above the atrium, offering dramatic views down into the station’s “canyon” and a perfectly framed view of Kyoto Tower.

At the very top, the Sky Garden & Happy Terrace on the 15th floor provides a free open-air observation deck with sweeping views over Kyoto city and the Higashiyama mountain range, making it one of the best sunset spots in the city.

Dining and shopping are integral to the station’s identity. Kyoto Ramen Koji on the 10th floor brings together elite ramen shops from across Japan, while Eat Paradise, The Cube, and the underground Porta Mall offer everything from high-end dining to souvenirs and fashion—ideal even on rainy days.

• JR Lines: Tokaido Shinkansen, JR Kyoto Line, Nara Line (Fushimi Inari / Nara), Sagano Line (Arashiyama), Biwako Line

• Subway: Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line (Kyoto Station)

• Private Railway: Kintetsu Kyoto Line (direct access to Nara and Ise-Shima)

• From Kansai International Airport (KIX):

  • JR Haruka Express (approx. 75 minutes)

  • Airport Limousine Bus (approx. 85 minutes)

• Understand the “Two Sides” Rule:

  • Karasuma Side (North): Kyoto Tower, main city bus terminal, downtown Kyoto

  • Hachijo Side (South): Shinkansen platforms, Kintetsu Railway, airport buses

• Crossing the Station: Use the 2nd-floor Pedestrian Walkway (“O-Sugi”)—the fastest way to move between north and south sides

• Navigation Hack: If lost, always return to the 2nd floor, which acts as the station’s main circulation artery

• Luggage Hack: If coin lockers are full, visit Crosta Kyoto (B1 level) for luggage storage or same-day hotel delivery (“Hands-Free Travel”)

• Secret Photo Spot: For crowd-free shots of Kyoto Tower, use the East Square viewing platforms opposite the Grand Staircase

• Bus Tickets: Purchase your Bus One-Day Pass from vending machines at the North Bus Terminal before boarding to save time

Admission Fee:

• Free admission to all public areas, including the Skyway Tunnel and Sky Garden
  Dining, shopping, hotels, and performances are charged separately

Opening Time:

• Station Facilities: Generally 05:00 AM – 11:30 PM

• Shops & Restaurants: Typically 10:00 AM – 08:00 or 09:00 PM

• Kyoto Ramen Koji: Open until 10:00 PM (last order around 9:30 PM)