Kyoto Tower (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kyoto Tower?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enter at a reduced fee, can safely peer through telescopes and use touch-screens, then refuel in the casual food hall; however, there are no play areas or themed shows.
Positives:
- Safe railings and wide windows: Kids can lean safely and enjoy clear views without gaps.
- Elevator access: Take a fast elevator to all floors—no stairs needed with little ones.
Challenges:
- Breezy deck at height: Temperatures drop on the open deck; pack light jackets.
- Peak-time crowds: Lines grow at sunset. Arrive early or mid-afternoon for shorter waits.
- No stroller storage: Folding strollers must stay with you; space is tight in elevators.
What is Kyoto Tower?
- A slender white steel structure modeled on a traditional candle, rising 131 meters above Kyoto Station.
- A circular observation deck at 100 meters, providing panoramic vistas of Kyoto’s historic temples, shrines and the Higashiyama mountain range.
- A multi-use base housing a hotel, restaurants and a shopping arcade beneath the tower’s illuminated framework.
What is so special about Kyoto Tower for with kids?
- Panoramic city view from 100 m up keeps kids engaged.
- Interactive telescopes and touchscreens bring landmarks close.
- Casual food court with family-friendly local eats.
- Market stalls let kids pick small souvenirs.
- Hands-on wagashi workshop adds a creative twist.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to enjoy the deck, grab a snack, shop and join a workshop
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kyoto Tower
Observation Deck (4–5F):
Climb 100m up for a 360° view of Kyoto landmarks.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to see both day and night views. Use free telescopes and touch-screen guides.
Kyoto Tower Sando Food Hall (B1F):
Sample local ramen, sushi and matcha sweets in casual seating.
Tip: Try the matcha soft serve and save time by visiting before the dinner rush.
Market Shops (1F):
Browse 31 stalls with candies, snacks and small souvenirs.
Tip: Let each child pick one treat under ¥500 to keep costs low.
Wagashi Workshop (3F):
Make traditional Japanese sweets under expert instruction.
Tip: Book at least one day in advance and confirm age requirements for under-6 children.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kyoto Tower
- Buy tickets online: Skip the ticket line and get reserved entry times.
- Visit midweek: Weekdays are quieter in the deck and food hall.
- Pair workshop with lunch: Schedule the wagashi session before noon to avoid crowds.
Reviews of Kyoto Tower
CP T
Nice experience as an observation tower at this rate of 900 yen per adult. One free photo with the old newspaper background frame is an interesting little gift too.
Hafiz Muhammad Arslan
Nidec Kyoto Tower, located just across from Kyoto Station, is a modest but convenient landmark that offers a 100-meter-high observation deck with panoramic views of the city. While it may not rival the grandeur of other famous towers in Japan, it provides a nice overview of Kyoto’s skyline, especially at sunset or night. The tower also houses restaurants, souvenir shops, and a public bath, making ...
Peter Wegscheider
This does not concern the observatory BUT is about the 10th floor Wonderland bar & restaurant. We decided to give it a try and we enjoyed it. The music was truly great (for us boomers), drinks were cheap, 1000 JPY for a GT. We had some fingerfood which was good too. You can also order real food and apparently, you can also reserve a table up front. They don’t advertise it anywhere but you should t...
plu !!
We went here on an impromptu visit, spotting it on the map and deciding to head there for a nighttime view of the city. This tall building was cheap to enter, and satisfied the price with the views and experiences! It was easy to buy a ticket at the office, and the crowds were not as bad as they may have been during the day. Although there isn’t much to distract oneself through means of shopping ...
Ferdinand
When you’re in Kyoto, you absolutely must experience the breathtaking beauty of the city from up high. The Kyoto Tower offers a panoramic view of Kyoto, and in my opinion, the best time to visit is during sunset. The ticket cost ¥900, and we went during noon, but the view was still stunning!
When is the best time to visit Kyoto Tower (Kyoto, Japan)?
In spring, watch cherry blossoms tint the city pink. Summer haze may limit far views. In autumn, see maple colors at dusk. Winter offers clear skies but bring jackets for the deck.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Observation deck tickets (2 adults, 1 child 6–12, 1 child 3–5) | JPY 2,600 |
| Family meal at Food Hall | JPY 3,200 |
| Souvenir treats for kids | JPY 600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 6,400 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Kyoto Tower
Address: Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokōjichō, ７２１−１ ニデック京都タワー 展望室 ３階
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About Kyoto Tower
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 75-361-3215Explore Popular Things to Do
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