Kyoto Station Building

Kyoto Station Building is a large complex directly connected to Kyoto Station, featuring eight plazas and four passageways, with a wide range of offerings including restaurants, souvenir shops, a hotel, and a theater. Its design concept references the grid (jōbō) layout of ancient Heian-kyo, expressed through a modern design using glass and metal. From the JR central ticket gate, go up to the 4th floor to see the striking Grand Staircase: a 30-meter height difference and 171 steps. Illumination events are held here throughout the year, so it’s worth checking what’s on. If you want sightseeing advice, visit the Kyoto Tourist Information Center “Kyo-navi” on the 2nd floor of the north–south free passage. For shopping, three convenient areas are JR Kyoto Isetan, The Cube (Kyoto Station Building specialty shops), and Porta (the underground mall), offering everything from food to small souvenirs, plus cafés and restaurants. There are also themed dining areas such as Washoku Koji and Kyoto Ramen Koji. If you want to base your stay at the station, Hotel Granvia Kyoto is inside the complex, and Kyoto Theater hosts plays and concerts.