Rising into the sky as the tallest structure in Kyoto City, Nidec Kyoto Tower stands as a rare, modern, iconic landmark. 131 metres high, this red and white beauty is the one that dominates the skyline and offers great views from its observation deck at 100 meters high.
The lighthouse-shaped Kyoto Tower stands atop a 9-story building called Kyoto Tower Building. From Kyoto Tower Sando mall to Kyoto Tower Hotel, there’s so much to see inside! You can spend hours relaxing in the spa, learning about the tower’s history at the tourist information centre and many more attractions inside the building. Right next to Kyoto Station, it is a must visit for those exploring Kyoto.
In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about the Nidec Kyoto Tower, including its history, the best ways to experience its observation deck, and tips for making the most of your visit to the Kyoto Tower Building.
About Kyoto Tower
History and Construction
Construction started in 1963 after the proposal for the Nidec Kyoto Tower was approved in 1960. Designed by modernist architect Mamoru Yamada and engineer Makoto Tanahashi, Kyoto Tower stands on the site of the former Kyoto Central Post Office, which is just a block away. Traditional Japanese candles inspired the shape as well as colour of the Nidec Kyoto Tower and it was built to withstand big earthquakes and typhoons.
By the end of 1964, the 131-metre tall Nidec Kyoto Tower was completed and opened on December 28 of the same year as the tallest structure in Kyoto. Despite some opposition to the modern design in the traditional city, Kyoto Tower was a hit and got over a million visitors in the first year.
Planning Your Visit
Location and Directions
Kyoto Tower is right in front of the north exit of the JR Kyoto Station so it’s hard to miss and easy to access by train. Simply purchase the JR Kansai Area Pass for ease of travel and make your way over. This location puts the tower next to one of Japan’s biggest transportation hubs with frequent services to Osaka and other major cities. To get to Kyoto Tower, just exit at Karasuma Central Gate, cross the street or use the underground passage at Kyoto Station that leads directly to the tower.
You can also take a bus or taxi from various parts of Kyoto city or Osaka. If you’re driving, there are several parking options near the station so you can visit Kyoto Tower regardless of how you get here.
Admission and Tickets
To purchase the Kyoto Tower admission tickets (770 yen for adults), take the elevator to the 11th floor where the observation deck entrance is. On this floor you’ll find a ticket booth: a cash only vending machine on the left and a manned counter on the right that accepts cashless payments including some via QR code. To beat the crowd, buy your Kyoto Tower tickets from Pelago by Singapore Airlines in advance and ensure a hassle-free visit.
Opening Hours | Open Daily: 10am to 9pm (Last Admission: 8:30pm) |
|---|---|
Price | Adult: 7.84 SGD; High School Student: 6.10 SGD; Elementary and Junior-High School Student: 6.10 SGD; Infant (Under 6 Years Old): 1.74 SGD |
Address | Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokojicho, 721-1 (Maps) |
Facilities and Services
Kyoto Tower has many facilities and services to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. From tourist information to souvenir shops, dining and accommodation here’s what you can find at Kyoto Tower.
Kansai Tourist Information Centre
The Kansai Tourist Information Centre (KTIC) is a vital stop for foreign visitors. The multilingual staff at the Centre will help with any questions you may have about Kyoto and Japan. Here, you can get free maps and sightseeing information to help you get around and explore.
Additionally, the centre is conveniently located near a kimono rental shop, souvenir shops, a photo studio, and an ATM cash dispenser, making it easy to access these essential services all in one place.
Restaurants and Hotel
The Kyoto Tower Hotel is located beneath Kyoto Tower and the front desk is on the 8th floor. The hotel spans the 5th to 9th floor of the tower, combining Japanese and Western-style elements in the modern rooms. The rooms can accommodate 1 to 7 people depending on the room type and is suitable for business and family travellers.
On the 8th floor you will also find the Tawawa-chan Room with Tawawa-chan items. The Kyoto Tower Hotel is a comfortable place to stay in Kyoto with access to all the tower’s facilities and nearby attractions.
The tower has 3 restaurants and a food hall, including a buffet and a French-Japanese fusion restaurant. Among them, you will find a buffet restaurant to try many dishes and a French-Japanese fusion restaurant to have a special culinary experience. Also, the KUU Sky Lounge on 3rd floor is a café and bar where you can relax and enjoy a drink while taking in the view of the city. The bar has a selection of whiskeys and cocktails to suit all tastes.
The Kyoto Tower Experience
The Observation Deck
At the Observation Deck, you can use the free telescopes to see panoramic views of the city’s landmarks. On clear days, you can even see Osaka’s entire city and the surrounding mountains. There’s also a mini-shrine where you can make a special wish, blending tradition and modernity.
To make your Kyoto Tower visit more fun, the deck is equipped with 8 “Touch Panel-style Tourist Information Monitors” which introduce sightseeing facilities visible from the deck and provide access information for those locations.
Also, the “Moving QR Code” feature sends more information directly to your smartphone and it’s been getting great reviews for its convenience.
Activities and Experiences
Beyond the observation deck, Kyoto Tower has more to offer.
On the 10th floor, south of the “Daikaidan” Grand Stairway, Ramen Street has 9 famous ramen shops from all over Japan. If you’re looking for something quick, cheap, delicious and filling, this is the place for you.
You can also find 19 famous Kyoto restaurants at the food court on B1 level such as a steakhouse specialising in wagyu beef and a local Chinese restaurant. The open seating format so you can try dishes from multiple restaurants and enjoy them all in one place. For drinks you can choose from local Kyoto sake with over 300 years of history, local wine, craft beer and Japan’s first gin.
For shoppers, the Kyoto Underground and the food hall on B1 level has many shops to find souvenirs.
To top it all, visiting Kyoto Tower at night is a special and must see experience as the city lights up and the tower has a great view of Kyoto city.
Insider Tips
Making the Most of Your Visit
Here are the insider tips to get the most out of Kyoto Tower:
Start at Kyoto Tower: When you arrive in Kyoto, make this rare modern iconic landmark your first stop. It’s a great overview of the city and with the views, you can plan the rest of your trip.
Use the Kansai Tourist Information Centre: Make the most of the services at the Kansai Tourist Information Centre. They can give you valuable advice, maps and help you navigate Kyoto to make your visit more enjoyable.
Night views: Don’t miss the night views from the observation deck. The city lights are magical and worth the visit after dark.
Student discount: If you’re with elementary school students, make sure to get the student discount on the admission tickets from 6.10 SGD and make the visit even more affordable.
Reach New Heights: Discover the Wonders of Kyoto Tower
Modern design meets traditional charm at Kyoto Tower. Enjoy the views of one of Japan’s oldest cities from the observation deck, dining options, activities and services. Whatever you do, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out the insider tips to make the most of your visit and see Kyoto like a local.