Orders

Blue Sky and Kyoto Tower and Bus Stop at Kyoto Station

Kyoto

Kyoto Station

Name: Kyoto Station
Address: Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
Rating: 4.3

4.3 Transit StationSubway StationTrain StationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Kyoto Station is a pivotal landmark in Kyoto, serving as a major transportation hub while offering a multitude of facilities and services. This station, one of Japan's largest, integrates traditional and modern architectural elements, reflecting Kyoto's blend of history and contemporary culture.

Inside, Kyoto Station features an extensive shopping mall, dining options ranging from fast food to gourmet restaurants, and various other services including hotels and theaters. The building's design, characterized by its vast, open spaces and futuristic glass and steel structure, is a sight to behold and a popular subject for photography enthusiasts.

The station is not just a transit point but a cultural space as well, hosting events and exhibitions. Its multiple platforms cater to numerous train lines, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), making it a crucial node for travelers exploring Kyoto and the surrounding regions.

Visitors can also access the station's skywalk, which offers stunning views of the city, including Kyoto Tower and the surrounding mountains.

Hours:

Open 24 hours a day

Retail shops within the station typically open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Restaurants within the station usually open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

No entry fee

Website

www.jr-odekake.net

The area

Address

Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan

Website

www.jr-odekake.net

Top ways to experience Kyoto Station

7.5hrs

Enjoy the Kyoto Full-Day Walking Tour from Kyoto Station

From $145 /person

7hrs

Kyoto Scenic Bus Tour to Sanzen-in & Enryaku-ji

From $68 /person

What other travelers are saying about Kyoto Station

When I arrived at Kyoto Station, I was amazed by how huge and modern it felt, almost like a small city on its own. It was really easy to find my way around thanks to the clear English signs, and I loved that I could quickly switch between the Shinkansen, JR lines, subway, and buses for my day trips. I grabbed a quick meal in the underground Porta mall, which had plenty of affordable options, and later explored the upper floors where I found the rooftop garden and Skyway with amazing views over Kyoto, plus the illuminated stairs that looked magical at night. I also used the coin lockers to store my bag, which made sightseeing much more comfortable. The station was definitely crowded, especially near the bus terminal, but I felt it was part of the experience, and overall I enjoyed spending time there—it turned out to be not just a station, but a destination in itself.

Aug 27, 2025

Was here in July recently on a break visiting Osaka Expo. This is the 3rd time in Kyoto over that last 15-20 years, and this is always a must-make stop. Nice atmosphere and can go up to the top level for a view of Kyoto. Also plenty of food options in this station.

Google Lum

Oct 5, 2025

Kyoto Station can feel overwhelming at first but once you get used to it, it's pretty smooth to navigate. It's always busy with heavy foot traffic but it's well connected to metro lines and buses. There are also plenty of restaurants in the basement if you need a meal. Following the English signs or checking Google Maps makes it easier to find your way.

Ced Aquino

Aug 16, 2025

I’m a US traveler today taking the train from Kyoto station to Nara. I checked the schedule of the train B01 leaving at 9:27. The train station is big so we were not able to find the right platform. I went to platform 8-9 then we were told that was not the right platform so we needed to get out and go downstairs. I asked the service officer to manually waive the train charge because we were at the wrong platform and didn’t board the tram at all. Then I asked the service officer how to get to the B01 line platform to Nara, he immediately lost the patience and rudely answered me “I don’t know!, I don’t know!”. The attitude was extremely bad…this is the first time we met such rude officer who WORKS in the train station but would not tell travelers the direction! You work here you don’t know?! I was shocked by his attitude! My wife took his photo when he came out to repair the reader. I then asked a different officer from the same office at the window and he explained to me well how to get to the B01 platform, luckily I was having one minute before the train left. I would like to report this officer’s unprofessionalism and attitude! He ruined professionalism being an officer working at the station, and also ruined travelers entire day!

Jiyou Guo

Sep 29, 2025

I was pleasantly surprised by how grand and luxurious Kyoto Central Train Station is. I’m not sure why more places around the world don’t do the same—it truly leaves a lasting impression on travellers and makes a big difference to your overall experience of the city. The sheer variety of food options is incredible, and they’re all good—there’s just no other way to put it. It’s also a fascinating place to simply stand or sit and people-watch, as you see so many different walks of life passing through this impressive transport hub—coming together and then parting ways to their own cities, towns, prefectures, and adventures. I stayed in Kyoto for five days and used the station as a base for day trips to places like Osaka, Nara Deer Park, and Nagoya. The transport system in Japan is just so well designed and thought out—I can’t wait to visit again!