Situated in the Shimogyo Ward of Kyoto city, the Kyoto Tower, standing tall at 131 meters, is the tallest structure in the city. Adorned with a touch of red at the top of its pristine white structure, it serves as a beacon illuminating the paths of the streets of Kyoto, even though it’s not beside the sea. The observation deck at 100 meters offers breathtaking 360-degree views that encompass the streets of Kyoto, temples, and the surrounding mountains, making it a hidden gem for travel enthusiasts in Japan. In this article, we will guide you through the unique allure of the Kyoto Tower, often humorously referred to as the “Big Candle”, highlighting the features that make it worth a visit.
1.Admire World Heritage Sites from One Spot
Experience the priceless panoramic view of Kyoto’s thousand-year history at the Kyoto Tower. Save yourself the fatigue of traveling between various World Heritage Sites and national treasure buildings, as you can enjoy them all from here, including Kiyomizu Temple, Toji, Nishi Honganji, and Chion-in. Whether enjoying the cherry blossoms in spring or the changing leaves in autumn, the tower offers an excuse to visit several times a year without getting bored. Moreover, the glittering night view of Kyoto provides a romantic escape for every tourist. And guess what? The telescopes here are free of charge!
2.Home to Kyoto’s Highest Shrine
Nestled within the 100-meter-high observation deck is the hidden “Tawawa-chan Shrine”, honoring the adorable golden mascot of Kyoto Tower, Tawawa-chan. At this sanctuary, you can purchase limited edition ema (wooden plaques) featuring Tawawa-chan for 300 yen, and Tawawa-chan fortune slips for 100 yen.
3.The Legacy Behind Kyoto Tower
Strategically located right opposite the central exit of Kyoto Station, the 131-meter tall Kyoto Tower is the tallest building in the city. The height is believed to have been determined by the population of Kyoto city at the time of its construction, which was 1.31 million, but this is a beautiful misconception. The actual reason behind its height is the existing law that restricted buildings in Kyoto to not exceed 31 meters, thus the design incorporates a 31-meter commercial building topped with a 100-meter tower, summing up to 131 meters. But why isn’t it a steel-frame structure like the Tokyo Tower? Simply put, the harsh metallic elements didn’t resonate with the graceful image of Kyoto. Instead, the elegant white cylindrical design resembling a ‘lighthouse’ won the locals’ favor.
4.360-Degree Panoramic Views: A Must-Visit in Your Lifetime
Though comparatively shorter than Tokyo Tower or Skytree, the 131-meter tall Kyoto Tower should not be underestimated. Being the tallest structure in Kyoto, it allows for unobstructed views of the entire city, evoking a sense of grandeur and wisdom. The entrance fee to the observation deck is as follows: adults 770 yen; high school students 620 yen; elementary and junior high school students 520 yen; and children (above 3 years old) 150 yen.
5.Sky Feast Only at ‘KUU’ in Kyoto Tower
With seven restaurants spread across various floors including B1, 3rd, 10th, and the observation deck, the Kyoto Tower offers diverse dining options. Our editor suggests the “Sky Bar ‘KUU'”, a delightful venue situated 45 meters above the ground. Whether for a lively lunch or a romantic evening at the bar, it’s a perfect spot to satiate your hunger, complemented by beautiful vistas of Kyoto.
Conclusion
After exploring the wonders of Kyoto Tower, are you tempted to visit? Whether you’ve visited Kyoto before but missed the tower or are planning your first trip, make sure to include the distinctive Kyoto Tower in your itinerary!
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