Kyoto Station
When travelers arrive at Kyoto Station, they're stepping into more than just a transportation hub. They're entering a striking, futuristic building that also serves as the starting point for exploring one of Japan's most historically and culturally rich cities. Whether you're here for a short stay, planning temple visits, or beginning a scenic road trip into the countryside, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your time in and around Kyoto Station.
Where is Kyoto Station and How to Get There
Kyoto Station is located in the Shimogyo Ward in central Kyoto, making it an ideal base for exploring both the city and nearby destinations like Nara, Osaka, and Uji. It's the largest transportation hub in the region, serving the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train), local JR lines, subways, buses, and airport express trains.
If you're arriving from Tokyo, the Tokaido Shinkansen will get you to Kyoto in just over two hours. From Kansai International Airport (KIX), the JR Haruka Express takes you directly to the station in about 75 minutes. Kyoto is also well connected to Osaka — only a 15-minute ride on the Shinkansen or around 30 minutes by regular JR train. Navigating the station is easy, even for first-time visitors. English signage is clear, and there's a tourist information center with multilingual staff ready to assist.
What Makes Kyoto Station Unique
Unlike the old-world charm of Kyoto's temples and wooden teahouses, Kyoto Station is a striking modern structure made of steel and glass, designed by renowned architect Hiroshi Hara. It's one of the largest buildings in Japan and an architectural destination in its own right. The station houses shopping malls, gourmet restaurants, art spaces, a theater, a hotel, and even a rooftop garden. Inside, you'll find dramatic escalators, long glass walkways suspended high above the concourse, and seasonal light displays that transform the space throughout the year. It's as much a place to explore as it is a place to pass through.
One of the must-visit spots inside the station is the Sky Garden on the 15th floor. Here, you'll get a sweeping view of Kyoto's cityscape — a perfect photo opportunity, especially during sunset.
Exploring Kyoto from Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station is the ideal launching point for sightseeing. From here, you can easily reach many of the city's top attractions:
Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its endless path of vermilion torii gates, is just a 5-minute train ride south on the JR Nara Line.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks, can be reached in about 15–20 minutes by bus or taxi.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is located in the northwestern part of the city and takes around 40 minutes by bus from the station.
Arashiyama, known for its bamboo grove and riverside scenery, is accessible via the JR Sagano Line in about 30 minutes.
Nara, home to friendly deer and the Great Buddha, makes a fantastic day trip — just 45 minutes away by train.
Where to Stay Near Kyoto Station
Staying near Kyoto Station is highly recommended for first-time visitors. It provides easy access to transportation, restaurants, shopping, and even nightlife, all within walking distance.
Some excellent accommodation options include:
Hotel Granvia Kyoto – A luxury hotel located inside the station building. Perfect for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
Kyoto Century Hotel – Stylish, mid-range option just steps from the central exit.
Sakura Terrace – Modern and affordable with a relaxed atmosphere. Breakfast and welcome drinks included.
Piece Hostel Kyoto – A favorite among backpackers and solo travelers, known for its design and social spaces.
Dining Around Kyoto Station
Whether you're craving a quick bowl of noodles or a full Kaiseki meal, Kyoto Station has plenty to offer. The 10th floor of the Isetan department store hosts Kyoto Ramen Street (Ramen Koji), where you can try different regional styles of ramen in one place.In the Porta underground mall and The Cube shopping center, you'll find everything from sushi and tempura to traditional Kyoto sweets. For a more upscale experience, restaurants inside Hotel Granvia and Isetan offer elegant dining with views of the city. Don't forget to try Yatsuhashi, a cinnamon-scented Kyoto specialty, or pick up some matcha-based snacks for souvenirs.
Other Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
Luggage storage: Coin lockers are available throughout the station, and larger luggage can be stored at the baggage services counter.
Free Wi-Fi: Kyoto Station offers free Wi-Fi, though logging in may be required.
ATMs and currency exchange: Available inside Isetan and nearby convenience stores such as 7-Eleven or Lawson.
Tourist information: Located on the second floor near the central exit. Free maps, brochures, and English-speaking staff are available.
Private Car Hire and Charter Options
If you're looking for a more relaxed and customized way to explore Kyoto and the surrounding Kansai region, hiring a private vehicle with a driver is an excellent choice-especially for families, groups, or travelers with limited mobility. Chartered cars can be arranged for half-day or full-day use and typically come with an English-speaking driver who may also double as a local guide. This allows you to create your own itinerary-whether it's hopping between temples, exploring tea plantations in Uji, visiting a sake brewery in Fushimi, or taking a scenic drive to Himeji Castle or Lake Biwa.
As a reliable limo and tour company, we offer the pick-up and transfer servicers to/from Kyoto Station for international travelers with budget rates. The private chauffeur and car service ensures a comfortable travel experience, allowing you to indulge in high-quality service and comfort throughout your journey. we have 6-seater Alphard minivans, 9-seater Hiace vans, and 19-seater Coaster minibuses.
When travelers arrive at Kyoto Station, they're stepping into more than just a transportation hub. They're entering a striking, futuristic building that also serves as the starting point for exploring one of Japan's most historically and culturally rich cities. Whether you're here for a short stay, planning temple visits, or beginning a scenic road trip into the countryside, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your time in and around Kyoto Station.
Where is Kyoto Station and How to Get There
Kyoto Station is located in the Shimogyo Ward in central Kyoto, making it an ideal base for exploring both the city and nearby destinations like Nara, Osaka, and Uji. It's the largest transportation hub in the region, serving the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train), local JR lines, subways, buses, and airport express trains.
If you're arriving from Tokyo, the Tokaido Shinkansen will get you to Kyoto in just over two hours. From Kansai International Airport (KIX), the JR Haruka Express takes you directly to the station in about 75 minutes. Kyoto is also well connected to Osaka — only a 15-minute ride on the Shinkansen or around 30 minutes by regular JR train. Navigating the station is easy, even for first-time visitors. English signage is clear, and there's a tourist information center with multilingual staff ready to assist.
What Makes Kyoto Station Unique
Unlike the old-world charm of Kyoto's temples and wooden teahouses, Kyoto Station is a striking modern structure made of steel and glass, designed by renowned architect Hiroshi Hara. It's one of the largest buildings in Japan and an architectural destination in its own right. The station houses shopping malls, gourmet restaurants, art spaces, a theater, a hotel, and even a rooftop garden. Inside, you'll find dramatic escalators, long glass walkways suspended high above the concourse, and seasonal light displays that transform the space throughout the year. It's as much a place to explore as it is a place to pass through.
One of the must-visit spots inside the station is the Sky Garden on the 15th floor. Here, you'll get a sweeping view of Kyoto's cityscape — a perfect photo opportunity, especially during sunset.
Exploring Kyoto from Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station is the ideal launching point for sightseeing. From here, you can easily reach many of the city's top attractions:
Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its endless path of vermilion torii gates, is just a 5-minute train ride south on the JR Nara Line.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks, can be reached in about 15–20 minutes by bus or taxi.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is located in the northwestern part of the city and takes around 40 minutes by bus from the station.
Arashiyama, known for its bamboo grove and riverside scenery, is accessible via the JR Sagano Line in about 30 minutes.
Nara, home to friendly deer and the Great Buddha, makes a fantastic day trip — just 45 minutes away by train.
Where to Stay Near Kyoto Station
Staying near Kyoto Station is highly recommended for first-time visitors. It provides easy access to transportation, restaurants, shopping, and even nightlife, all within walking distance.
Some excellent accommodation options include:
Hotel Granvia Kyoto – A luxury hotel located inside the station building. Perfect for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
Kyoto Century Hotel – Stylish, mid-range option just steps from the central exit.
Sakura Terrace – Modern and affordable with a relaxed atmosphere. Breakfast and welcome drinks included.
Piece Hostel Kyoto – A favorite among backpackers and solo travelers, known for its design and social spaces.
Dining Around Kyoto Station
Whether you're craving a quick bowl of noodles or a full Kaiseki meal, Kyoto Station has plenty to offer. The 10th floor of the Isetan department store hosts Kyoto Ramen Street (Ramen Koji), where you can try different regional styles of ramen in one place.In the Porta underground mall and The Cube shopping center, you'll find everything from sushi and tempura to traditional Kyoto sweets. For a more upscale experience, restaurants inside Hotel Granvia and Isetan offer elegant dining with views of the city. Don't forget to try Yatsuhashi, a cinnamon-scented Kyoto specialty, or pick up some matcha-based snacks for souvenirs.
Other Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
Luggage storage: Coin lockers are available throughout the station, and larger luggage can be stored at the baggage services counter.
Free Wi-Fi: Kyoto Station offers free Wi-Fi, though logging in may be required.
ATMs and currency exchange: Available inside Isetan and nearby convenience stores such as 7-Eleven or Lawson.
Tourist information: Located on the second floor near the central exit. Free maps, brochures, and English-speaking staff are available.
Private Car Hire and Charter Options
If you're looking for a more relaxed and customized way to explore Kyoto and the surrounding Kansai region, hiring a private vehicle with a driver is an excellent choice-especially for families, groups, or travelers with limited mobility. Chartered cars can be arranged for half-day or full-day use and typically come with an English-speaking driver who may also double as a local guide. This allows you to create your own itinerary-whether it's hopping between temples, exploring tea plantations in Uji, visiting a sake brewery in Fushimi, or taking a scenic drive to Himeji Castle or Lake Biwa.
As a reliable limo and tour company, we offer the pick-up and transfer servicers to/from Kyoto Station for international travelers with budget rates. The private chauffeur and car service ensures a comfortable travel experience, allowing you to indulge in high-quality service and comfort throughout your journey. we have 6-seater Alphard minivans, 9-seater Hiace vans, and 19-seater Coaster minibuses.
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