Kyoto Tower Tours

Photo provided by City of Kyoto and Kyoto Tourism Council
Kyoto featuring a city
Kyoto Tower featuring modern architecture, a city and central business district
Kyoto Tower featuring a city, a high rise building and night scenes
Kyoto Tower featuring a skyscraper, modern architecture and a city


In a city known for its temples and other ancient relics, this observation point catches the eye as an example of 20th-century innovation.

The steel Kyoto Tower stands 430 feet (131 meters) high, making it the tallest in the city. Built on top of a nine-story building, the top part of the tower is supposed to resemble a Japanese-style candle. It can be seen from all over Kyoto, which makes it an attractive meeting point.

Take an elevator up to the deck, which is at 328 feet (100 meters) high. Take panoramic photos of the city and the Higashiyama and Arshiyama mountains. Due to a height restriction on most buildings, you can see for miles around, at times as far as Osaka. Use the telescope to spot attractions around the city that you have been to.

Visit the stores in the building below the tower. Peruse souvenirs, books and a 100-yen store. Look for arts, crafts and fabrics in the shopping area. Head to the spa on the lower floor of the structure. Admire the lights of the old city at night. Stay at the Kyoto Tower Hotel. Try the food at the Sky Lounge, a circular restaurant with postcard-pretty views. Relax and enjoy the relief of air-conditioned rooms during Kyoto’s hot and humid summers.

The tower was constructed in 1964. Architects designed it to withstand earthquakes and typhoons. It is open daily, morning until evening. There is an entrance fee for the tower, and prices vary for different age groups and students.

Kyoto Tower stands in the center of the city. It is the most accessible attraction in the area, as it is right by the main transportation hub, Kyoto Station. Regular buses, including the JR bus, and trains from all over Kyoto go to the station.

Plan a trip to see Kyoto Tower

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KABIN Kyoto
KABIN Minamiza
KABIN Taka

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Reviews of Kyoto Tower

4.2
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
203
5 - Excellent 44%
4 - Good
184
4 - Good 40%
3 - Okay
68
3 - Okay 15%
2 - Disappointing
4
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
4
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Be sure to visit the dining hall below Kyoto Tower as well. An amazing variety of food and drinks!

4/5 - Good

Doppler

Expensive view from top, variety of 19 fast service restaurants in basement

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

We paid for the top floor observation. The view was well worth it.

1/5 - Terrible

Por-Pla

Not far but my room was not that side of Kyoto Tower View

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

It’s a lot smaller than other towers, even the space inside so if you go during busy hours you will have a to wait just

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Best Lodging Options Near Kyoto Tower

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

3 out of 5
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Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

4.5 out of 5
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Hotel Granvia Kyoto

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APA Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi

APA Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi

3 out of 5
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APA Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi
Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto

Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto

3.5 out of 5
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JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI

JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI

3 out of 5
44-1 Higashikujo Kamitonodacho, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

4 out of 5
17 Nishi Kujoin-machi, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 

Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 

4 out of 5
44-1, Kamitonodacho, Higashikujo, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

4 out of 5
140-2 Manjujicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower offers a variety of activities for visitors, including guided tours that highlight the city's rich history and culture. From stunning panoramic views of Kyoto from the observation deck to exploring nearby attractions, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the convenience of shopping and dining options in the vicinity, making your visit to Kyoto Tower a memorable part of your vacation.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Kyoto Tower, visit Kawaramachi Street, just 483m away, bustling with family-friendly shops. Nishiki Market, 1.6km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere for local treats. If you're up for a drive, check out Expo City, 29.0km away, featuring entertainment and family options.

Recreation

Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, just 4.8km from Kyoto Tower. For ultimate relaxation, Funaoka Thermal Bath, located 6.4km away, provides a soothing retreat. Enjoy performances at Kyoto Kaikan Concert Hall, which is only 3.2km away, enriching your cultural experience.

Adventure

Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers thrilling skiing experiences 27.4km from Kyoto Tower, perfect for snow sports enthusiasts. For a scenic adventure, trek the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, located 3.2km away, showcasing beautiful landscapes. Families can enjoy the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, found 12.9km from the tower.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Kyoto Tower. Enjoy a captivating performance at Gion Corner, just 1.6km away, or explore the wonders of the Kyoto Municipal Science Center For Youth's planetarium, located two miles from the tower. For adventure, visit Omiyakotsu Park's arcade, five miles away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kyoto Tower

When visiting Kyoto Tower, tourists can explore a variety of cultural attractions, including nearby temples and shrines, making it a perfect spot for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the breathtaking views from the tower itself, and consider wandering the charming streets surrounding it. With so much to see and do near Kyoto Tower, you're sure to create lasting memories during your stay in this historic city.

  • Kiyomizu Temple: Nestled in the hills, Kiyomizu Temple offers breathtaking views of the city and cherry blossoms in spring. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection amidst serene surroundings.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of rice. The trails lead you through enchanting forested paths, creating a mystical atmosphere that captivates visitors and offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.
  • Nijō Castle: A stunning example of feudal architecture, Nijō Castle features beautifully landscaped gardens and intricate interiors. Its romantic ambiance is enhanced by the historical significance, as it served as a residence for shoguns, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s imperial past.

Best time to go to Kyoto Tower

The best time to visit Kyoto Tower is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto Tower

To save money on your visit to Kyoto Tower, consider traveling during the off-peak months of January, February, or September for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Tuesdays for the best prices. Utilize Expedia's search tools to find eco-friendly hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities. For public transport, walking is a budget-friendly option to explore the area, while discount tickets can help reduce costs for various attractions.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kyoto Tower are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Kyoto Tower about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kyoto Tower is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Kyoto Tower is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Kyoto Tower with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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