The gateway to Kyoto is far more than just a train station: It’s an attraction in its own right and it’s packed with shops, restaurants and things to see.
Kyoto Station: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com
Unless you drive, walk or hitchhike into town, the Kyoto Station Building (Kyoto-Eki in Japanese) is likely to be your point of entry to Kyoto. If you’re expecting something in keeping with the traditional image of the city, think again: stepping into the soaring atrium is like stepping into the lobby of a well-appointed space colony. And if you’re expecting the shops and restaurants typical of train stations the world over, you’re in for a surprise: There are dozens of restaurants here, some serving truly refined fare, as well as a collection of first-rate shops. For eats, be sure to check out The Cube Food Court, Kyoto Ramen Koji, Eat Paradise and Porta. For a bit of shopping, don’t miss Bic Camera;, Yodobashi Camera, and Isetan Department Store. And for great takeaway food, the Isetan Department Store Food Floors are an Aladdin’s Cave of delights.
English address:
901 Higashishiokoji-cho, Karasuma-dori, Shiokoji sagaru, Shimogyo-ku
Japanese address:
京都市下京区烏丸通塩小路下る東塩小路町901
Opening hours:
1F & B1F souvenir shops 8:30am-8:00pm
B2F fashion shops: 10:00am-8:00pm
11F restaurants: 11:00am-10:00pm
Isetan Department Store: 10:00am-8:00pm
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
Connected to JR Kyoto station
Telephone: 361-4401
Website:
Official Website (English)
Near To Here:
Kyoto Station Building is located in Kyoto Station area. See our complete list of things to do in Kyoto Station area, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
