White tower opposite Kyoto's central station with a viewpoint at 100 m height; admission ~900 ¥.
The Kyoto Tower is the tallest structure in the city at 131 metres, and its viewpoint at 100 metres height offers an absolutely unique 360-degree panoramic view. From the observation platform you can identify with the naked eye monuments such as Toji temple, Kiyomizudera and the mountains that surround Kyoto; on clear days you can even see Osaka. The tower has the advantage of being right opposite Kyoto's JR station, which makes it an easy-access viewpoint with no travel involved. It opens every day from 10:00 to 21:00; admission costs 900 ¥ for adults. The viewpoint binoculars are free. The best time to go up is at sunset, when the city gradually lights up as the sun sets over the western mountains. The night visit is also worthwhile to see the city's sea of lights. At the base of the tower there are public foot baths, shops and restaurants. The nearest station exit is Karasuma.
