Japan, Kinki Region, Kyoto Prefecture, Shimogyo-ku, View of Kyoto Tower in city at night. (Photo by: JTB/UIG via Getty Images)

UIG via Getty Images

Kyoto Tower Observation Deck


Located opposite Kyoto Station, this retro tower (1964) looks like a rocket perched atop the Kyoto Tower Hotel. The observation deck provides excellent views in all directions and you can really get a sense for the Kyoto bonchi (flat basin). It's a great place to get oriented to the city upon arrival. There are free mounted binoculars to use and a cool touch screen information panel showing what the view looks like both day and night.


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