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.

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Best Lodging Options Near Kyoto Tower

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
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

3 out of 5
491 Zaimokucho, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
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 
Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

4.5 out of 5
JR Kyoto Station, Karasuma Chuo-guchi, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto

Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto

3.5 out of 5
579 Higashishiokoji-cho, Shiokoji-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

4 out of 5
140-2 Manjujicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

4 out of 5
1 Taimatsu-cho, Shiokoji-sagaru, HigashiHorikawa-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
Hotel Hokke Club Kyoto

Hotel Hokke Club Kyoto

3 out of 5
Kyoto-eki Karasuma Chuo-guchi Shomen, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Hokke Club Kyoto
Kyoto Century Hotel

Kyoto Century Hotel

4 out of 5
680 Higashi Shiokoji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Kyoto Century Hotel
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

At Kyoto Tower, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture by exploring exciting tours and adventures. Discover the rich history and stunning views of Kyoto from the observation deck, and embark on trips that showcase the area's traditional sites and modern attractions. Whether you're looking for guided experiences or self-explored adventures, Kyoto Tower serves as a perfect starting point for your unforgettable journey in this historic city.

Food and drinks

For a taste of local flavors, visit Suntory Kyoto Brewery, a charming spot with romantic vibes located 6 miles from Kyoto Tower. Alternatively, enjoy the entertainment ambiance at Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, situated 8 miles away, where you can savor exquisite brews and spirits.

Shopping

Experience the vibrant shopping scene near Kyoto Tower. Kawaramachi Street, just 0.3 miles away, offers a mix of family and city vibes. Nishiki Market, 1 mile away, is perfect for local delicacies, while Pontocho Alley, also 1 mile away, combines family-friendly entertainment with a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

At Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium, enjoy vibrant sports activities to energize your day, just 3 miles from Kyoto Tower. Funaoka Thermal Bath, located 4 miles away, offers soothing body treatments for ultimate relaxation. For a refreshing escape, visit Kameoka Sports Ground, 12 miles away, where wellness meets recreation.

Adventure

Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located 17 miles from Kyoto Tower, offers exhilarating skiing and snowboarding experiences amidst breathtaking mountain views. Meanwhile, the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, 2 miles away, invites adventurers to explore its iconic trails lined with stunning shrines and vibrant torii gates.

The Kurama - Kibune Hiking Trail, situated 8 miles from Kyoto Tower, provides a scenic escape through lush forests and tranquil rivers, perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure and gorgeous landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Kyoto Tower! Enjoy a cultural evening at Gion Corner, just a mile away, or immerse yourself in family-friendly entertainment at the Kyoto Municipal Science Center For Youth, 2 miles out. Don't miss the romantic ambiance of the Kyoto MINAMIZA Theatre, also a mile away.

Find the best attractions near Kyoto Tower

When visiting Kyoto Tower, you'll find a wealth of attractions that highlight the city's rich culture and outdoor offerings. Explore nearby temples and shrines, or enjoy a leisurely stroll in urban parks. Don't miss the iconic Kyoto Tower itself, as well as the bustling Kawaramachi Street. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or a taste of the heart of Kyoto, there's plenty to keep you engaged during your visit.

  • Kiyomizu Temple: Nestled in the scenic hills, Kiyomizu Temple is renowned for its stunning wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant leaves in autumn. The temple’s historic architecture embodies traditional Japanese culture, making it a serene spot for reflection.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of rice. Visitors can hike up the mountain trails lined with these iconic gates, immersing themselves in a unique cultural experience that spans over 2 miles.
  • Nijō Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijō Castle features stunning gardens and impressive architecture. Its historical significance and romantic ambiance make it a perfect place to explore the samurai era, with beautiful interiors that showcase traditional Japanese artistry.

Best time to go to Kyoto Tower

Visitor numbers around Kyoto Tower is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Kyoto Tower can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Kyoto Tower falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Kyoto Tower falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
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 HighAverage
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto Tower

When visiting Kyoto Tower, consider free attractions like Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to save money. The best months for lower hotel rates are January to February and September. Booking a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia can lead to further savings. Utilize Expedia's search tools to refine your preferences and select eco-friendly accommodations. Consider booking a package with flights and activities for added discounts, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive offers and cash rewards on future stays.

  • 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 March to May, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Kyoto Tower is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that includes your hotel stay at Kyoto Tower along with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.