My family and I have already visited Kyoto Station (京都駅) numerous times during our trips to Kyoto City. The first time we got to see it was during our 2014 Japan trip, followed by our 2018 Japan trip, then our 2019 Japan trip, and then my 2022 Solo backpacking trip.
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| Kyoto Station (京都駅) |
Of course, we didn’t miss revisiting Kyoto Station during our latest trip this January 9, 2023, which was my 433rd day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. It was actually our last destination for the day. My daughter and I went there at night after exploring Eastern Kyoto to see the Kyoto Station Illumination 2023. That of course is for another article.
Kyoto Station details
In September 1876, the Kobe government railway extended its line to Kyoto, where a temporary station named Ōmiya-dōri (Ōmiya Street) Temporary Station was used until the inauguration of the main station on February 5, 1877, by order of Emperor Meiji.
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| Kyoto Station - Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture |
By 1889, this railway had become part of the Tokyo trunk line (Tokaido Main Line). Soon after, Kyoto Station became the terminus for two private railways: the Nara Railway in 1895 (now the Nara Line), connecting southern Kyoto Prefecture, and the Kyoto Railway in 1897 (now the Sagano Line), linking the northern regions.
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| Kyoto Station at night |
In 1914, the station was replaced by a new Renaissance-inspired structure, featuring a spacious square leading to Shichijō Avenue, which often served as a route for imperial motorcades during Emperor Showa's travels between Kyoto and Tokyo. Although designed to accommodate large crowds, a tragic incident occurred on January 8, 1934, when 77 people were crushed to death as thousands gathered to bid farewell to naval recruits. The station later burned down in 1950 and was replaced by a more functional concrete facility in 1952.
Photos inside Kyoto Station
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| The Grand Stairway Illumination |
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| Kyoto Station Illumination 2023 |
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| Kyoto Station Skyway |
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| The view from Kyoto Station Skyway |
The current Kyoto Station, unveiled in 1997 to mark Kyoto's 1,200th anniversary, stands 70 meters tall and spans 470 meters from east to west, boasting a total floor area of 238,000 square meters. Architect Hiroshi Hara's design reflects elements of futurism, featuring a slightly irregular cubic façade of plate glass supported by a steel frame.
Despite Kyoto's reputation as one of Japan's least modern cities due to its wealth of cultural heritage sites, the city initially hesitated to embrace such an ambitious structure in the mid-1990s. However, the station's completion ushered in a new era of high-rise development, epitomized by the 20-story Kyocera Building.
Team Nicerio revisits Kyoto Station
Adjacent to the main building on the north side, the Hachijō-guchi building on the south side was constructed to accommodate the Tokaido Shinkansen, which commenced operations in 1964. Underground facilities, including the Porta shopping mall beneath the station square, were developed with the opening of the subway in 1981. Today, Kyoto Station ranks as Japan's second-largest railway station building (after Nagoya Station) and stands as one of the country's largest structures. It houses a diverse array of amenities under its 15-story roof, including a shopping mall, hotel, movie theater, Isetan department store, and various local government facilities. Until August 31, 2002, it also served as the Kyoto City Air Terminal.
Kyoto Station Admission Fee
You can visit and explore Kyoto Station and its surroundings for FREE, even if you don't intend to take a train. Access to the Kyoto Station Observation Deck and Kyoto Station Skyway is also free, offering scenic views. However, it's recommended to carry cash since there are many enticing stores and restaurants within the station that you might want to visit.
Kyoto Station Operating Hours
The general counters in the station are open from 5:30 AM to 11 PM. The stores and restaurants in Kyoto Station have different operating hours so please check ahead.
Why visit Kyoto Station?
Kyoto Station is a must-visit destination known for its modern architectural marvel with a striking glass and steel facade. It serves as a cultural hub and gateway to Kyoto's famous sites, hosting various cultural events. The station boasts numerous shopping and dining options, including the Isetan Department Store and Porta Underground Shopping Mall. Visitors can enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop Sky Garden and benefit from the station's convenience as a major transportation hub with easy access to trains, buses, and taxis. Additionally, the area features several hotel accommodations and is located near Kyoto Tower, a landmark offering more city views and attractions. Overall, Kyoto Station blends modern convenience with cultural experiences and stunning architecture.
Getting to Kyoto Station:
To get to Kyoto Station from Kansai International Airport by train, follow these steps:
JR Haruka Express: Take the JR Haruka Express directly from Kansai International Airport to Kyoto Station. This limited express train is the fastest and most convenient option, with a travel time of about 75 minutes. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes.
Alternative Route via JR Rapid Service:
Take the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service from Kansai International Airport to Osaka Station. This journey takes about 65 minutes.
Transfer at Osaka Station to the JR Kyoto Line (Rapid Service) bound for Kyoto Station. The journey from Osaka to Kyoto takes about 30 minutes.
Tickets and Passes
ICOCA & HARUKA: Consider purchasing an ICOCA & HARUKA package, which includes an ICOCA prepaid card for convenient travel on JR trains, subways, and buses, along with a discounted ticket for the Haruka Express.
Japan Rail Pass: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, it covers the Haruka Express, making it a cost-effective option if you're traveling extensively in Japan.
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