Kyoto Tower

It is said that all major metropolitan cities in Japan have a tower and the height of each cities’ tower is matter of pride for residents of those cities. The former capital of Japan Kyoto though known more for its historical and cultural side is in no way behind when it comes to modernity. In fact if you are in the centre of the city full of gleaming steel chrome and glass high-rises you might just forget its quaint historical attributes. The city is a major centre of business and trade in Japan and has thus not been left behind in the country’s rapid race for economic development. Kyoto’s modern architectural landmarks like Kyoto Station and Kyoto Tower stand testament to this.

The Kyoto Tower is a 131 meter observatory tower that stands on top pf a building directly opposite the JR Kyoto Station. It was constructed in 1964. The observation deck of this unique building is 100 meters above the ground and offers a panoramic view of the Kyoto city, the nearby temples and shrines and the thirty-six peaks of the Higashiyama Mountains. The tower is orange and white in color and resembles a huge Japanese candle stick. The structure is not made of a conventional steel frame but of a tower of steel rings. Critics and many guidebooks have discredited the building saying that it is not a “real” tower as it is on top of a building. Many have criticized the monument saying arguing that a building that resembles a lighthouse in a city that is not close to the sea is a silly idea.

However it has to be said that this tall glittering structure well illuminated at night is a useful referral landmark in a case you get lost in the city.

The base of the Kyoto Tower houses a luxury hotel, various designer stores and a large bathhouse and sauna. The sauna is located in the third underground level of the building. The tower also offers quirky ways to amuse you and a variety of arcade games.

Address: 721-1 Higashi Shiokoji-cho Karasuma-dori Nanajo-sagaru Shimogyo-ku
Tel Number: 075-361-3215
FAX Number: 075-361-2913
Business Hours: 9:00a.m.-8:40p.m.
Closed on: Open Seven days
Access: City Bus to "Kyoto". JR Line, Subway Karasuma Line or Kintetsu Line to "Kyoto". One minute walk from JR Kyoto Station.
Entrance Fee: 770 Japanese Yen.

Hotels in Kyoto
Hotel Ana	Hotel Tokyu
Hotel Royal	Hotel Righa Royal
Hotel Aranvert	Hotel Court