Update-date: Dec 12 2023
Kyoto Station offers an endless selection of restaurants and eateries, so you may find yourself at a loss for what to choose. To help you navigate this foodie paradise, here are a few locations conveniently located near the station! Read on to find out more about how to access Kyoto's major sightseeing spots as well as other points of interest within walking distance from Kyoto Station. This local guide should come in handy on your next visit to the ancient capital.
Discovering Kyoto Station, the Entryway to the Enchanting City
Situated in the southern part of Kyoto City, Kyoto Station is a lively transportation hub with connections to an extensive network of bullet trains, local JR lines, the Kintetsu Line, and the Kyoto Municipal Subway, welcoming an average of 340,000 passengers per day. In the vicinity of the terminals is a vibrant assortment of department stores, underground shopping arcades, expansive electronics stores, dining establishments, accommodations, and other facilities that are bustling with locals as well as visitors from around the world.
Access From Major Japanese Cities
Kyoto Station is easily accessible from other major cities. From Tokyo Station, a bullet train can transport you there in 2 hours and 10 minutes. Kyoto is just a 30-minute train ride away from Osaka Station and 2 hours and 45 minutes via the bullet train from Hakata Station in Fukuoka.
Finding Your Way to Kyoto's Iconic Landmarks
Kyoto Station offers connections to multiple railways and features a large bus terminal right outside the station building, so visitors can smoothly access various destinations around the city. Below is a simple guide to some of the renowned areas of Kyoto:
Gion/Shijo Kawaramachi area: Direct access by Kyoto City Bus. Also accessible by Kyoto Bus, although there are fewer buses.
Arashiyama area: Direct access to Saga-Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano Line (San-in Line). Also accessible by Kyoto City Bus or Kyoto Bus.
Fushimi area: Fushimi Inari Taisha and Tofukuji Temple are accessible via the JR Nara Line.
Gion/Shijo Kawaramachi area: Direct access by Kyoto City Bus. Also accessible by Kyoto Bus, although there are fewer buses.
Arashiyama area: Direct access to Saga-Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano Line (San-in Line). Also accessible by Kyoto City Bus or Kyoto Bus.
Fushimi area: Fushimi Inari Taisha and Tofukuji Temple are accessible via the JR Nara Line.
Unsure of Where to Eat Around Kyoto Station? Try This!
With the vast variety of dining options near Kyoto Station, deciding on a place to eat may become a tough challenge. If you're undecided, do try this location!
Nishiki Uoriki KYOTO TOWER SANDO branch (Kyoto Station / Tempura, Kushikatsu)
Situated on the basement floor of the Kyoto Tower Building just steps away from Kyoto Station is Nishiki Uoriki, where patrons can delight in Kyoto's traditional hamo (conger eel) cuisine and other seasonal flavors unique to the region. The original restaurant was founded in 1919 in Kyoto's renowned Nishiki Market shopping district, and Nishiki Uoriki KYOTO TOWER SANDO branch upholds its legacy as a restaurant specializing in grilled fish in the form of casual, bar-style dining.
The conger eels are always acquired fresh and finished to an exquisite taste by the culinary artisans with their keen eye for perfection and mastery in the technique of slicing the bones to make the fish delectable. The delicacy can be enjoyed as tempura or cutlet, and highly recommended is the Skewer Set (980 JPY), a well-balanced assortment of fish, vegetables, and meat on skewers! The location is a stone's throw away from Kyoto Station, making it the perfect destination to wrap up your day of enjoying the wonders around Kyoto.
Nishiki Uoriki KYOTO TOWER SANDO branch
Open: 11:30 am - 9:00 pm
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 1,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: A 2 minutes walk from the Central Exit of JR Kyoto Station. On the B1 floor of Kyoto Tower
Address: B1F, 721-1, Higashishiokoji-cho, Karasuma-dori Shichijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 1,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: A 2 minutes walk from the Central Exit of JR Kyoto Station. On the B1 floor of Kyoto Tower
Address: B1F, 721-1, Higashishiokoji-cho, Karasuma-dori Shichijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
More Details Reservation
Take a Peek Inside KYOTO TOWER SANDO - A Shopping Plaza Just Outside Kyoto Station
KYOTO TOWER SANDO is a shopping plaza established in April 2017 within the B1F to 2F floors of the Kyoto Tower Building, conveniently located on the north side of Kyoto Station. Nestled within the plaza are restaurants, souvenir shops, and other popular local shops that attract a wide audience.
Following an extensive renovation project, KYOTO TOWER SANDO reopened its doors in April 2023 with seven new shops, including a cafe operated by a well-established bakery among other Kyoto-based stores. The food hall on the basement level expanded its capacity to accommodate 450 seats, providing a welcoming space for a short break between your sightseeing adventures or while waiting for the next bullet train.
Following an extensive renovation project, KYOTO TOWER SANDO reopened its doors in April 2023 with seven new shops, including a cafe operated by a well-established bakery among other Kyoto-based stores. The food hall on the basement level expanded its capacity to accommodate 450 seats, providing a welcoming space for a short break between your sightseeing adventures or while waiting for the next bullet train.
Restaurant to Visit at the Heart of Kyoto
Kyoto Station offers seamless transportation to any destination within the remarkable city! After a day of exploring the vibrant city center, you may want to stop by this restaurant to finish off the day.
DODICI (Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae / Italian)
Indulge in the culinary delights curated by a seasoned chef of thirty years at DODICI. The establishment is situated in a serene neighborhood, about a 20-minute walk from the bustling Shijo Kawaramachi entertainment district. The name of the restaurant means "twelve" in Italian, and it draws inspiration from the idea that the menu showcases the bountiful delicacies available each month.
Once you step foot inside the entrance, adorned by a magnificent tree, you'll find yourself embraced by an enchanting ambiance that will whisk you away from the bustle of the city. Private rooms are available for those seeking an intimate dining experience to provide the perfect getaway in the company of special guests.
Once you step foot inside the entrance, adorned by a magnificent tree, you'll find yourself embraced by an enchanting ambiance that will whisk you away from the bustle of the city. Private rooms are available for those seeking an intimate dining experience to provide the perfect getaway in the company of special guests.
Satisfy all five of your senses with a lineup of dishes carefully prepared to highlight the inherent flavors of premium ingredients, such as chemical-free vegetables and Kyoto-raised duck meat. Highly recommended is the Kyogamo Roast with Grilled Spring Onions. Kyogamo is a brand of duck raised in Kyoto with specialized feed and clean water. The slow-grilled Kyogamo, infused with the sweet notes of spring onions and savory balsamic sauce, creates a beautiful masterpiece. The manager, a certified sommelier in both Japan and Italy, is there to elevate your dining experience with the perfect wine selection to complement your meal.
DODICI
Open: [Monday, Friday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (L.O 1:00 pm) [Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Sunday, National Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm (L.O 7:30 pm)
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 17,000 JPY / [Lunch] 8,000 JPY
Access: 296m walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the Subway Tozai Line
Address: 239, Kamihaksancho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 17,000 JPY / [Lunch] 8,000 JPY
Access: 296m walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the Subway Tozai Line
Address: 239, Kamihaksancho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
More Details Reservation
Exploring Tourist Hotspots Near Kyoto Station
The city has a variety of attractions to offer just a short stroll away from Kyoto Station. Discover historical temples and family-friendly landmarks that are sure to make your trip memorable.
To-ji Temple, Home to Kyoto's Iconic Five-Storied Pagoda
One of the most recognizable landmarks in the city is the five-story pagoda of To-ji Temple. Standing at approximately 55 meters, it is also the highest traditional wooden structure in Japan. It's no surprise that it can be seen from various points throughout the city! To-ji Temple itself is the oldest Buddhist temple in Kyoto, having been founded in 796, merely two years after the capital was transferred from Nara to present-day Kyoto.
While the original temple buildings were lost to fires in the course of its history, structures dating from the 14th to 17th centuries remain on the property, along with 21 Buddhist statues enshrined in the Kodo (Lecture Hall). Additionally, an antique market is held on the 21st of every month, attracting locals and tourists alike to create a vibrant atmosphere.
While the original temple buildings were lost to fires in the course of its history, structures dating from the 14th to 17th centuries remain on the property, along with 21 Buddhist statues enshrined in the Kodo (Lecture Hall). Additionally, an antique market is held on the 21st of every month, attracting locals and tourists alike to create a vibrant atmosphere.
Chishakuin Temple - Immerse in the Wonders of its Scenic Garden and Treasured Paintings!
Established in 1601, Chishakuin Temple is home to many invaluable treasures of cultural heritage. Among them, a series of murals by Tohaku Hasegawa and his pupils stand out as timeless masterpieces that continue to captivate viewers to this day.
Another point of interest is the picturesque Japanese garden designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. The focal point of the garden is the pond, which was designed with the use of perspective to make the landscape appear more spacious than its actual modest size. The azaleas that flourish during the verdant spring months from May to June are splendid, and the serenity of the snowy wonderland in the colder months is another sight to behold. The temple grounds also become adorned with colorful foliage in the fall. In short, visitors can revel in the magnificent scenery throughout the four seasons.
Another point of interest is the picturesque Japanese garden designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. The focal point of the garden is the pond, which was designed with the use of perspective to make the landscape appear more spacious than its actual modest size. The azaleas that flourish during the verdant spring months from May to June are splendid, and the serenity of the snowy wonderland in the colder months is another sight to behold. The temple grounds also become adorned with colorful foliage in the fall. In short, visitors can revel in the magnificent scenery throughout the four seasons.
Umekoji Park - A Delightful Destination for Family Fun!
Umekoji Park is only a 15-minute walk westward from Kyoto Station and has gained popularity as a refreshing escape where visitors can unwind and enjoy themselves among the lush greenery.
Nestled within the park are various attractions such as the expansive lawn area, Japanese garden, large playground equipment, and the Kyoto Aquarium which opened its doors in 2012. Also don't miss the Kyoto Railway Museum, one of Japan's largest railway museums established in 2016. These exciting points of interest guarantee endless fun for the entire family.
Once you understand the ins and outs of Kyoto Station and its surroundings, your journey will become much more seamless and enjoyable! Do use this information to find your way around Kyoto Station on your next visit.
Kyoto Fusion Restaurant Les Confluents
Kyoto Fusion Les Confluents is a restaurant that was opened in April 2021, and it is located in the Agora Kyoto Karasuma hotel. The restaurant interior is incredibly appealing, as it has a relaxing atmosphere unified with a Japanese feel. Their various options for their innovative "Kyoto Fusion" cuisine, which combines Kyoto cuisine with French cuisine and techniques, is so delicious that guests will suddenly let out a cry of admiration. It is also enjoyable just to look at. Being able to see the brilliant artisan skill of the chef Mr. Tamura working at the counter and open kitchen is a big part of the restaurant's appeal.
Kyoto Fusion Restaurant Les Confluents
Open: [Monday, Thursday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) / Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 8:00 pm)
Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY
Access: 6-minute walk from Exit 25 of Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line and Shijo Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway
Address: 701-1, Myodenji-cho, Shijo-Sagaru, Nishinotoin-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
More Details
Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY
Access: 6-minute walk from Exit 25 of Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line and Shijo Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway
Address: 701-1, Myodenji-cho, Shijo-Sagaru, Nishinotoin-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
