Excursion Destinations Close to Kyoto Station
Are you ready to dive into Kyoto's chaotic harmony of tradition and modernity? You might first think of those timeless images of elegant temples, robed monks, and wandering geisha, but Kyoto is more than just history! The city showcases an intoxicating fusion of old and new, giving you a one-of-a-kind adventure. Here are some mind-blowing, lowdown spots near Kyoto Station you gotta check out!
Kyoto StationThis massive transport hub, one of the biggest in Japan, sets the stage for an unforgettable trip. With over 700,000 daily passengers, it's a pulsating nexus of people, culture, and commerce. More than just a train stop, it offers a dazzling array of shops, restaurants, cinemas, and even hotels! The curvaceous, contemporary design mesmerizes passersby, and illuminations grace the stairs year-round.
Kyoto TowerTowering over Kyoto Station, this metropolitan marvel is the city's tallest structure. Standing 100 meters above ground, its observation deck provides a breathtaking panorama of Kyoto. And guess what? It's right next to the station, so even during a torrential downpour (yes, Kyoto rain happens), you can enjoy the view!
10am – 9pm (Last entrance at 9pm) | ¥900
Nijo-jo CastleTickets, please! This 17th-century marvel was built by the almighty Tokugawa Ieyasu and showcased raw power, mirroring his grip on Japan for over 260 years. Ironically, the Tokugawa Shogunate began and ended here, when they relinquished political control to the emperor in 1867. It's a must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 3,600 breathtaking wall paintings in the Ninomaru-goten Palace.
Open 8:45am – 4pm | Admission: ¥1,300 (Nijo-jo Castle/Ninomaru-goten Palace), ¥1,000 (Honmaru-goten Palace) (Online reservation required) | Castle admission ticket: ¥800
Kyoto Imperial Palace & Kyoto GyoenFor centuries, this grand palace drew the Imperial family and court nobles, serving as their residence from 1331 to 1869. Though fire and deterioration forced reconstructive efforts, it remains an architectural marvel. Encompassed within a vast national garden ("Kyoto Gyoen" in Japanese), this serene zone is perfect for a laidback stroll, especially in spring, when you can immerse yourself in a sea of over 1,000 cherry blossoms.
Open 9am – 3:20pm, closed on Mondays & New Year | Check the official website for more information before your visitKyoto Gyoen National Garden: Open 8:30am – 4:30pm
Nishiki MarketStep away from the fancy, and dive into the throbbing heart of traditional Kyoto. Also called "Kyoto's Kitchen," this bustling marketplace stretches 400 meters, filled with an impressive array of food shops, stores, and eateries. Amidst chaotic crowds, sample Japanese delicacies like Kyoto-style pickles, grilled seafood, and the famed "yuba"—kidney bean-free tofu.
Kyoto Ramen Street (Kyoto Ramen Koji)If you're craving noodles, look no further! Navigate to the 10th floor of the Kyoto Station building, where nine ramen restaurants await your slurping pleasure. Each spot boasts its own dining den, providing a veritable smorgasbord of ramens to conquer. Keep in mind the smaller size of the restaurants and popular hours, or you'll be left wandering in ramen-less despair.
Open 11am – 10pm (Last order at 9:30pm) | Official website: Coming soon!
Tsujiri Kyoto IsetanMatcha-lovers, rejoice! This famous Japanese dessert shop is a Kyoto staple, offering treats that'll make your taste buds dance with joy. Take a break from exploring and indulge in their traditional Japanese sweets and dishes. The sweet-bitter perfection of their matcha concoctions will leave you wanting more!
10am – 7:30pm
Where to Stay near Kyoto StationSleep is an essential part of any adventure, and Kyoto has a fantastic range of accommodations near the station. Whether you're into luxury, budget-friendly, or even fancy battling adorable pocket monsters, there's a spot tailored to your desires:
- Hotel Granvia Kyoto: Quiet, comfortable, and within the station complex, offering nine dining options.
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station:Three-minute walk from the station, boasting breakfast buffet.
- MIMARU KYOTO STATION: Ideal location, cozy rooms, and yes, a Pokémon-themed room!
With these recommendations in hand, you're well on your way to experiencing Kyoto's vibrant fusion of past and present! Of course, Kyoto is ever-growing, constantly evolving to bring you fresh, unique experiences. Embrace the city's proud, preserving spirit, bask in the lively atmosphere, and you'll leave inspired!
For more travel inspiration, check us out on Instagram or Facebook, or tag us to get featured. And remember, we're here to help make your Kyoto trip unforgettable; visit our website for a dazzling array of tours and experiences designed to captivate your senses and create cherished memories!
Happy travels!
Learn more about Kyoto's modern attractions such as KATO Kyoto Station, Kyoto Rail Museum, Kyoto International Manga Museum, and Kyoto Station Building shopping areas by visiting our enrichment data. These modern attractions provide a delightful contrast to the traditional sites and add to Kyoto's unique charm.
- Kyoto Station, a massive transport hub, serves as a pulsating nexus of people, culture, and commerce, offering shops, restaurants, cinemas, and hotels, making it more than just a train stop.
- Kyoto Tower, standing 100 meters above ground, offers an observation deck with a breathtaking panorama of Kyoto, providing a great view even during a torrential downpour.
- Nijo-jo Castle, built by the Tokugawa Ieyasu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 3,600 wall paintings in the Ninomaru-goten Palace, making it a must-see destination.
- Kyoto Imperial Palace & Kyoto Gyoen, a grand palace and national garden, is perfect for a laidback stroll, especially in spring when you can immerse yourself in a sea of cherry blossoms.
- Nishiki Market, also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," offers an impressive array of food shops, stores, and eateries, allowing you to sample Japanese delicacies like Kyoto-style pickles, grilled seafood, and yuba.
- Kyoto Ramen Street (Kyoto Ramen Koji), located on the 10th floor of the Kyoto Station building, offers nine ramen restaurants to satisfy your noodle cravings.
- Tsujiri Kyoto Isetan, a famous Japanese dessert shop, is a must-visit spot for matcha-lovers, offering traditional Japanese sweets and dishes to indulge in.
- Accommodations near Kyoto Station, such as Hotel Granvia Kyoto, Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station, and MIMARU KYOTO STATION, cater to various traveler preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay in the city.
