We came here on our last day of our 2 day trip in Kyoto. We stored our luggage’s at the station and walked across to the towers. Can purchase the tickets up at the tower entrance. Got a great views of the city. The binoculars were high end and crystal clear. My kids enjoyed spying on people. Probably can spend 45min here. Friendly staff and a good experience.
Kyoto Tower is a simple yet mesmerizing landmark, especially enchanting when viewed at night. The tower's unique color effects create a captivating spectacle, making it a perfect subject for nighttime photography. Though we didn't get a chance to experience the observation deck, the view from the ground level was more than enough to leave a lasting impression.
Located right in front of Kyoto Station, the tower's central location makes it an easily accessible and convenient spot for tourists. Its modern design stands in beautiful contrast to the historical and traditional surroundings of Kyoto, providing a unique blend of old and new.
The tower's proximity to the bustling Kyoto Station area, with its array of shops and dining options, adds to its appeal. Even without ascending to the observation deck, the sight of Kyoto Tower illuminated against the night sky is a highlight of any visit to the city.
In summary, Kyoto Tower offers a remarkable visual treat, especially at night, making it a must-see landmark in Kyoto. Its accessibility and striking appearance make it deserving of a five-star rating.
I imagine this place can get pretty crowded in a hurry. It is very small. If you have been to Tokyo Tower or the Sky Tree, this is completely different. The observation deck is very tiny. Even the area to buy tickets is very tiny, and you can almost miss it because there are so many other shops in the area. I visited here on a weeknight in November 2024. The city was quite overcrowded with tourists. However, when I got up to the top of the tower, I found that it wasn't crowded at all there. It has beautiful views of the city, especially at sunset. And I was delightfully surprised to find a KyoAni Collab that was promoting the new anime season of Sound Euphonium.
This probably isn't something that I would do again. But I also wouldn't do the skytree again. I would however do Tokyo Tower again, especially the top deck. I would also do Roppongi Hills Mori Tower and Shibuya Sky again.
The walkways in this Tower are very narrow, as are the elevators. I could see that if you had a wheelchair it would be really difficult to get around.
I think it's wonderful that they have free binoculars you can use. I also like that they label the windows with some of the iconic historic sites, so that you know what you're looking at. What's really awesome is that you can see Osaka in the distance. I honestly didn't think that I would be able to see Osaka from Kyoto, even though I knew that they weren't too far apart. Fushimi Inari is difficult to make out, but you can still see it. Because a lot of the shrines are nested in trees, their view is obscured as well. That being said, this is definitely on a don't miss it of Kyo sites. Honestly, it is a great spot to either start or end your trip because you can either look out and see where you're about to head, which is really exciting. Or, you can look out and see all of the places you've been and reflect on them. Which is equally exciting!
Just a heads up... If you have vertigo issues like I do, be careful. The tower does sway. If you are claustrophobic, you might have some issues in this tower, especially if it gets overcrowded with tourists. Later, if you're hungry there's lots of food in the basement level of the building. Also tons of snacks below the tower, and gifts that you can bring home. Things are a little pricey here. So, if you're looking for a deal you're not going to get it.
It is okay okay place. Have already seen better observation deck in malaysia and Singapore. So, compared to those, it does not gives you that good city view. But one time visit is good to have
The tower is very close to the main station, so if you are waiting this is a good place where to go. View is good to all sides. Monday morning was totally without queue. Price for the ticket is low and they have stamp.
