Highlights of Nidec Kyoto Tower
Kyoto Tower is an observation tower 131 m tall, standing in front of Kyoto Station. Since 2024 year 4 month 1 day, it has operated under the name “Nidec Kyoto Tower” through naming rights.
Opened in 1964, its white form, inspired by a lighthouse illuminating the landlocked city of Kyoto, has become a landmark of the city. Another distinctive feature is its monocoque structure, made by joining cylindrical steel plates without using a steel frame.
Observation Room 100m Above Ground
From the observation deck 100m above the ground, you can take in Kyoto city across 360 degrees. Free telescopes are also available.
In the evening, the mountain ranges beyond the city are bathed in soft light.
After sunset, the roads and buildings light up, offering a view of Kyoto’s cityscape that differs from its daytime appearance.
Looking down from the observation deck at Kyoto Station’s vast roof and railway tracks provides a clear sense of how the station is positioned in relation to the city.
At night, the illuminated Kyoto Station building combines with the lights of passing trains and cars to create a striking cityscape.
The observation deck’s window frames and the tower’s structure outline the city glowing in the evening light.
Nighttime illumination
After sunset, the tower is generally illuminated in white, but it may be lit in special colors for commemorative dates, awareness campaigns, and events.
The tower, illuminated in white, is a symbol of the nighttime cityscape in front of Kyoto Station.
The green illumination stands out against the fountain in front of the station and the city lights.
The tower, lit entirely in blue, stands out sharply against the night sky.
During the Christmas season, it is illuminated in red and green.
Essential Information about Nidec Kyoto Tower
The information below was checked against official sources on September 29, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- Check opening hours, admission fees, temporary changes to opening hours, and online tickets.
営業時間・料金｜ニデック京都タワー【公式】地上131mの京都のランドマーク「ニデックニデック京都タワー」の営業時間・料金のご案内。京都タワー展望室は、お得な前売りチケットがございます。いつでも展望室にのぼり放題、特別価格でご利用いただける年間パスポートやもございます。JR...www.kyoto-tower.jp - 📍 Address
- 721-1 Higashishiokoji-cho, Karasuma-dori Shichijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
- 🕒 Opening hours
- 10:00–21:00 (last admission at 20:30). Hours may change due to events and other circumstances.
- 💶 Admission fees
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- Adults: 900 yen
- High school students: 700 yen
- Elementary and junior high school students: 600 yen
- Children (ages 3 and over): 200 yen
- Children under 3: free
- ⏱ Suggested visit duration
- Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to enjoy the views from the observation deck. ⚠️ Visit duration varies depending on crowds and the time spent taking photos and using the telescopes.
Access to Nidec Kyoto Tower
Railway
It is about a 2-minute walk from the Central Exit of JR Kyoto Station. From the Porta underground shopping mall, you can enter the Kyoto Tower Building directly.
By car
Nidec Kyoto Tower does not have a dedicated or affiliated parking lot. Use a nearby paid parking lot or visit by public transportation.
For attractions, transport and suggested itineraries, see “Kyoto: A guide to attractions, food, transportation, and suggested itineraries”.
