JTB Kansai Tourist Information Center Kyoto
Your Gateway to Kyoto: JTB Kansai Tourist Information Center
Nidec Kyoto Tower: A Modern Landmark in the Ancient Capital
Experience Kyoto from above at this iconic landmark, offering panoramic views, dining, shopping, and cultural experiences next to Kyoto Station.
Rising above Kyoto Station, the Nidec Kyoto Tower offers panoramic views of the city from its 100-meter-high observation deck. Designed to resemble a lighthouse, this modern structure provides a unique contrast to Kyoto's traditional temples and shrines.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Nidec Kyoto Tower
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
烏丸通七条下るHigashishiokojicho, 721-1, Kyoto, Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, JP
Monday
10 am-9 pm
Tuesday
10 am-9 pm
Wednesday
10 am-9 pm
Thursday
10 am-9 pm
Friday
10 am-9 pm
Saturday
10 am-9 pm
Sunday
10 am-9 pm
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Getting There
Walking
Nidec Kyoto Tower is located directly across from the Kyoto Station Karasuma Central Exit. After exiting the station, cross the street at the traffic light in front of the Kyoto Tower Building. The entrance to the tower is easily visible.
Public Transport
Kyoto Station is a major transportation hub served by JR Lines, the Kyoto Municipal Subway, and numerous city buses. From the Kyoto Station Bus Terminal, walk towards the Karasuma Central Exit and you'll find the tower across the street. If arriving by subway, follow signs to the Karasuma Central Exit. A single bus fare within the flat fare zone is ¥230 for adults and ¥120 for children. Consider a Kyoto City Bus & Kyoto Bus One-Day Pass for ¥600 for adults or a Kyoto Subway & Bus One-Day Pass for ¥1,100 for unlimited travel.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Kyoto Station. Taxi stands are located outside the station. A short taxi ride from anywhere near Kyoto Station to Kyoto Tower will typically cost between ¥1,900 and ¥2,500. The initial taxi fare is ¥600 for the first 2.0 km, with additional charges per kilometer. Be aware that taxi lines can be long during peak tourist seasons.
Local tips
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Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid potential lines, especially during peak tourist seasons.
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Visit the observation deck both during the day and at night to experience different perspectives of Kyoto.
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Explore Kyoto Tower SANDO for a variety of dining and souvenir options.
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Check the Kyoto Tower's official website for any special events or light-up schedules.
Discover more about Nidec Kyoto Tower
Nidec Kyoto Tower, standing at 131 meters, has been a symbol of Kyoto since its opening in 1964. Designed by architect Makoto Tanahashi, the tower's unique structure, built without a steel frame, was inspired by a Japanese candle, meant to illuminate the city.
Located directly in front of Kyoto Station, the tower offers visitors a 360-degree panoramic view of Kyoto from its observation deck. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Osaka in the distance. Free telescopes are available to enhance the viewing experience. From this vantage point, landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, To-ji Temple and Chion-in Temple can be seen.
The Nidec Kyoto Tower complex includes the Kyoto Tower Hotel, Kyoto Tower SANDO (a commercial facility with restaurants, souvenir shops, and cultural workshops), and even a public bath. Visitors can enjoy Kyoto gourmet food, shop for souvenirs, or participate in traditional Kyoto cultural activities. At night, the tower is illuminated with different colors depending on the season and events.
A brief summary to Nidec Kyoto Tower
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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