Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Station

As Kyoto Tower is right in front of Kyoto Station, it is always reflected in the mirrored windows of the station building, which provides one of the most modern style architectural features in a traditional city with over a thousand years of history. The glass-plated appearance is truly striking, and the skyway tunnel inside the building allows visitors to see modern art-like geometric structures up close. With a wide variety of establishments, including a hotel, a department store and a theater, you can literally spend a whole day at the station. Take advantage of the well-stocked tourist information center on the second floor of the station building.

Toji Temple

Kyoto Tower and the five-story pagoda of Toji Temple are the two main landmarks that can be seen from the windows of the Shinkansen (bullet train). The 55-meter-high pagoda at Toji Temple is the tallest out of all ancient wooden towers in Japan. Well known for the connection to the famous monk Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi), it is the head temple of his Shingon Sect and was the first esoteric Buddhist temple in Japan. In addition to the pagoda, there are many other outstanding features here, and over 25 of them are structures and Buddha images designated as National Treasures. As Kukai died on the 21st of the month, there is an open market on the 21st every month in the temple grounds. Toji Temple is located about 15 minutes' walk from Kyoto Station.