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Since its opening in 1964, Kyoto Tower has quietly watched over the ancient capital. It remains one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.
Located right in front of Kyoto Station, it’s extremely accessible and offers the perfect combination of shopping, dining, and panoramic views—making it a must-visit spot on any Kyoto trip.
Enter through the main entrance (Southeast corner) facing Kyoto Station.
The first floor features souvenir shops selling Kyoto specialties. From traditional sweets to side dishes, everything shines in a stylish space, lifting your spirits.
The clean, refined atmosphere makes browsing a pleasure. Since the stores are all carefully selected, you can shop with confidence knowing the souvenirs won’t disappoint. The stylish selection will tempt you to buy not only for friends but also for yourself.
To get to the observation deck, purchase your ticket on the 1st floor, take the elevator to the 11th floor, and then transfer to another elevator that takes you to the deck.
Here’s the elevator on the 11th floor that leads to the observation deck.
Inside the elevator is a sleek, modern design. It takes you straight up 100 meters to the observation deck.
The elevator whisks you up in no time.
Now, what kind of view awaits? The anticipation builds.
The observation deck offers a full 360-degree panoramic view of Kyoto City.
In Kyoto, a regulation called the Kyoto City Scenic Guidelines limits building heights to a maximum of 31 meters to protect the traditional cityscape. Thanks to this, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the entire city.
The sweeping view from the Kyoto Tower observation deck is truly breathtaking.
You can even see Kyoto Station beneath your feet.
Since you’re 100 meters above ground, you can clearly look down on the 60-meter-tall Kyoto Station.
Even the bus terminal looks tiny from here.
This is the view to the east.
This is the view to the north. You can spot Higashi Hongan-ji Temple.
Be sure to see it for yourself. Unlike photos, the view of Kyoto spreads across your entire field of vision—it’s overwhelming in the best way.
KYOTO TOWER SANDO is Kyoto Tower’s new hotspot, offering gourmet food, cafes, and souvenir shops. From the basement to upper floors, it’s packed with Kyoto’s charm.
Floors B1 to 3 of the Kyoto Tower building are part of KYOTO TOWER SANDO, featuring various shops and eateries.
The highlight is the food area on B1, filled with many dining options.
Inside a contemporary-designed space, Kyoto’s renowned restaurants line up side by side. Great atmosphere, delicious food—it’s a winning combination.
Besides the large number of shops, the area is built like a food court, with about 400 seats available. You can pick and enjoy dishes from multiple shops.
Among the many restaurants, I highly recommend the aged beef burger & steak specialty shop, NICK STOCK Kyoto Tower Branch.
As a meat specialty shop, the menu is packed with hearty meat dishes.
I went with the cheeseburger—and just look at that overflowing cheese!
The meat is super thick and juicy, absolutely satisfying!
I had the perfect time enjoying premium meat and beer right in the basement of Kyoto Tower.
Kyoto Tower continues to evolve.
In the past, it was a classic “Showa-era” tourist spot with an old souvenir area, basement dining, and the tower itself.
But in April 2017, it underwent a full renovation, and in April 2023, KYOTO TOWER SANDO was updated again. And on April 19, 2025, the stunning rooftop space TOWERLAND opens on the 10th floor.
The beautiful view from the observation deck remains unchanged.
Looking ahead, plans to completely revamp Kyoto Tower by 2030 are also being considered—so keep an eye out for even more exciting changes.
Kyoto Tower is a symbol of the city and a must-see sightseeing spot. But each visit brings something new.
Don’t miss out on the ever-evolving Kyoto Tower.
Views, food, and souvenirs—all in one place at Kyoto Tower.
Let it be the place where your Kyoto journey becomes even more special.
