Kyoto Station

Lonely Planet review

The Kyoto Station building is a striking steel-and-glass structure - a kind of futuristic cathedral for the transport age. Unveiled in September 1997, the building met with some decidedly mixed reviews. Some critics assail the building as not keeping with the traditional architecture of Kyoto; others love its wide-open spaces and dramatic lines.

Whatever the case, you're sure to be impressed by the tremendous space that arches above you as you enter the main concourse. Moreover, you'll probably enjoy a brief exploration of the many levels of the station, all the way up to the 15th-floor observation level. And be sure to take the escalator from the 7th floor on the east side of the building up to the 11th-floor glass corridor that runs high above the main concourse - not a good spot for those with a fear of heights!

In the station building, you'll find several food courts, the Isetan Department Store, the Kyoto Prefectural International Center, the Kyoto Tourist Information Center, the Kyoto Tourism Federation and an outdoor performance space.