Kyoto Tower

Facts & Figures

The Kyoto Tower with its height of 131 meter is the tallest building in Kyoto. The observation deck, 100 meter above ground, offers amazing views over the ancient city Kyoto, mountains of Higashiyama, Arashiyama and even some buildings of Osaka are visible. The modern steel tower with an weight of 800 tons was built on top of a 9 floor high building complex. The building is housing the Kyoto Tower Hotel (3 Stars), shops, restaurants and a nice onsen (public bath) in the basement.

 Explore Ryokans in Kyoto >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions.

• Kyoto Tower:
• Opening Hours - 9:00 am to 8:40 pm
• Closed - open all year
• Admission Fee - 770 yen (Adults), 620 yen (High school students), 520 yen (Junior high and elementary school students), 150 yen (3 to 6 years)

My tips for local activities

Explore the best parts of my favourite city Kyoto with a local guide. The tour takes approximately 3,5hrs. Check out this page > for more details.

History

Kyoto Tower was designed by Makoto Tanahashi. The construction phase started in 1963 and in December 1964 the Kyoto Tower was open for the puplic. 1964 was also the year of the Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Observation deck - around 400 000 visitors/year enjoy this amazing view

Onsen - after a busy sightseeing day take a rest in the public bath in the basement

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamo Shrines. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.