Tokyo Station: Grandiose European charm and a modern urban experience
- japansophy
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
The gateway to Japan's intricate railway network, Tokyo Station (東京駅) is an architectural masterpiece located in the heart of the city and blends historical grandeur with the sleek efficiency of a modern metropolis. Originally opened in 1914, the station's iconic red brick facade evokes a sense of European elegance, standing in stark contrast to the futuristic skyscrapers of the Marunouchi district that surround it. The station was designed by renowned architect Kingo Tatsuno and survived both the Great Kanto Earthquake and the air raids of World War II, although it required extensive reconstruction. Far more than being just a transport hub and where many will board or alight from the Shinkansen, the station is a warren of shops, restaurants and hidden gems that reflect Japan’s dynamic culture and rich heritage. With its blend of past and present, Tokyo Station offers a captivating experience that goes far beyond its role as a transit point. In fact, it is considered a must-visit attraction for both locals and tourists alike. Visitors are often drawn in by the sheer scale of the building, its beautiful design, and the bustling atmosphere of its numerous shops and restaurants, which include a street dedicated to ramen and a character-themed shopping area.
Getting there – where is Tokyo Station?
Tokyo Station is a major hub and is served by a multitude of lines, including the JR Yamanote Line, JR Chuo Line, and several Shinkansen (bullet train) lines. It is also connected to the Marunouchi and Otemachi subway lines.
By taxi: There are multiple taxi ranks around the station. For easiest access to the shinkansen lines, ask to be dropped off at the east side of the station (Yaesu Central Exit)
Accessibility: The station and its surrounding area are very accessible, with elevators and escalators throughout the complex
Opening hours & best time to visit
As a busy transport hub, Tokyo Station buzzes day and night.
Opening hours: The station itself is always open, but most shops and restaurants typically operate from around 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m..
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings are a great time to visit to witness the rush of commuters and the station's vibrant energy. To avoid the crowds, visit late at night or early in the morning on a weekend. For a fantastic photo opportunity, visit the Marunouchi (west) side of the station in the evening when the building is beautifully illuminated. Tokyo Station is a great place to spend a few hours on a rainy day.
Worst time to visit: Rush-hour can feel very overwhelming, so if crowds are not your thing avoid mornings between 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and evenings between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM.
Reservations & admission
Reservations: You do not need reservations to enter the station or most shops and restaurants. It's advisable to make reservations in advance for some of the station's high-end restaurants.
Ticket/Admission Price: Entry to Tokyo Station and most of its attractions is free. However, train tickets are required to pass through the ticket gates to access the platforms. Special platform tickets are available if you want to see the trains up close without going anywhere.
Payment method: Cash, credit cards and Suica/Pasmo are widely accepted throughout the station.
What can you see & do in Tokyo Station?
Tokyo Station is a destination in its own right, offering a wide array of activities beyond just catching a train. You can spend hours exploring its various sections, which include an underground shopping city and an elegant, historic facade.
Explore the Marunouchi Building: The station's red brick Marunouchi side is a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture. The building houses a hotel, a gallery, and various shops and cafes.
Find a Foodie's Paradise: Tokyo Station is home to "Ramen Street," an underground alleyway with eight of Japan's most famous ramen shops. There's also "Kitchen Street" for a wide variety of Japanese cuisine and "Snackland" for quick, tasty bites.
Shop ‘til you drop: The station's "First Avenue" is a shopper's dream, featuring "Character Street" with stores dedicated to popular characters like Pokémon and Hello Kitty, as well as "Okashi Land" which offers an array of unique Japanese sweets and snacks. You can also find high-end boutiques and souvenir shops throughout the complex.
Japansophy’s Top Tips!
Navigating the station: Tokyo Station is enormous and can be confusing. Take a moment to check a map or use the numerous digital guides available to find your way around. If you have to catch a train, leave yourself plenty of time to make it to your platform.
Hidden art: Look up as you walk through the station's main dome—you'll see intricate reliefs of eagles and zodiac signs, a nod to the station's rich history.
Souvenir hunting: Head to the basement floors for an incredible selection of unique Japanese souvenirs and gifts, including limited edition items.
Grab an ekiben: Ekiben are the station edition of the famous Japanese o-bento lunchboxes. Each station in Japan has its own varieties and specialties.
Get there early for ramen: Ramen Street is hugely popular and certain shops experience massive social media hype. Get there early to secure your place in the queue.
Park your bags: Tokyo Station has several facilities for leaving your luggage in safe-keeping for an hour or two. Oversize coin lockers are available and you'll also find several manned left-luggage points, so you can explore with your hands free.
Facilities:
Tokyo Station is like a city within the city and has no end of facilities.
Eating & drinking: Tokyo Station is a foodie's paradise. You can find everything from casual bento boxes to sit-down restaurants. It is generally not acceptable to eat while walking in the station, so most people eat at the designated dining areas.
Toilets: Public restrooms are plentiful and easily accessible throughout the station.
Baby-changing facilities: Baby-changing facilities are available in most larger restrooms and dedicated nursing rooms are also provided for parents
Other attractions nearby:
Tokyo Station can be your starting point for exploring everything this amazing city has to offer. Our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary guides you through the best of the best to save you the headache of planning!
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