Without an airport nearby, Kyoto Station will be their first glimpse into Japan’s ancient capital for many people. As a major transportation hub, including the station for the Shinkansen from Tokyo and Osaka, Kyoto Station is a giant 15 floor complex housing many shops, restaurants, amenities and even hotels inside and hotels near Kyoto Station. We’ll be discussing the surrounding areas around Kyoto Station as well as information to make your travels to Kyoto Station much easier.
The Wonders of Kyoto Train Station
When thinking of Kyoto Train Station, most people would only think of the Shinkansen, whereas the station itself is home to many routes throughout Kyoto and the rest of the Kansai region. From the JR section of the station, you’re able to get to Osaka, Kansai International Airport, Uji, Nara, and Kanazawa.
The Kintetsu side connects with Uji and Nara as well, with the last stop being in Mie Prefecture. Finally, underground is the Kyoto Municipal Subway, which connects people to local spots around Kyoto.
There’s two sides to Kyoto Train Station. The south side of the station, named “Hachijo”, opens up to Hachijo Dori. Here you’ll find Asty Road and Miyako Michi, which hold restaurants, shops and services for your convenience. Some of these services can include coin lockers and and baggage area, so you don’t have to lug everything around after your Shinkansen ride.
The north side of the station, named, “Karasuma”, is the main side of the station and opens up to Kyoto Tower, the Kyoto Japan Post Office and Bus Terminal. This side is where you’ll find the main gate, named the “Chuo Gate” for the JR Lines and the Shinkansen.
Views of Kyoto
Beautiful views can be found within the Kyoto Station complex. If you head to the 15th floor on the western side of the station, you’ll be greeted to the Sky Garden and Happy Terrace, a lovely garden that has breath-taking views of Kyoto. It’s a true sight to see.
Leading up the Sky Garden and Happy Terrace is the famous Daikaidan Grand Stairway, a staircase from the 4th floor of Kyoto Train Station to the wondrous gardens. Performances are usually on the stage of the 4th floor of the station with the stairs being used as seats for the live shows.
Inside the Kyoto Train Station is an array of goods and services to make your journey as fun and stress-free as possible. Kyoto Ramen Street is corridor of ramen restaurants situated on the 10th floor of the station building just south of the Daikaidan Grand Stairway. This is a great place to fill up on Japan’s national food and a cheap meal during your travels.
Great Hotels near Kyoto Station
If you’re staying in Kyoto with the purpose of exploring the Kansai region, you’ll want to stay in hotels near Kyoto Station. Luckily, being a major transportation hub, you’ll find many grand hotels for your travel stays.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Hotel Granvia is the closest of the hotels near Kyoto Station for one simple reason, it’s actually inside the station! With a pool, gym and on-site restaurants, the service at Hotel Granvia is the grandest in the area. Of course, you’ll be paying a good price for this lovely hotel, but with such a great location, giving you direct access to all the train lines Kyoto Station has, it’s very worth it for your stay.
Spot information
- Spot name: Hotel Granvia Kyoto
- Street address: Inside JR Kyoto Station, Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto 600-8216
- Access: Via the JR Chuo Main Exit on the northern side of the station, take the escalator on your right to the Lobby on the 2nd floor of the hotel.
Centnovum Kyoto
Centnovum Kyoto is only a few minutes walk from Kyoto Station. At half the price of Hotel Granvia, you’ll be able to save your money for what’s important; your travels. You’ll be able to taste everything Kyoto has to offer at its buffet bar, or even try wearing a kimono thanks to their kimono renting service. Centnovum has a bunch of plans to help make your stay in Kyoto be more enjoyable.
Spot information
- Spot name: Hotel Centnovum Kyoto
- Street address: 19-1 Higashikujo Higashisannocho, Minami, Kyoto, Kyoto 601-8004
- Access: From JR Kyoto station Hachijo east entrance, to the east, 3 minutes on foot
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