Tokyo Station: Where History and Modernity Meet
Tokyo Station is a captivating blend of historical architecture and a modern transportation hub, making it a must-visit destination in Japan’s capital, Tokyo. Every day, numerous tourists and business people pass through, drawn by its myriad attractions. In this article, we’ll explore everything that makes Tokyo Station special, including access routes, nearby highlights, and some unique experiences you shouldn’t miss.
Getting to Tokyo Station
From Narita Airport
Getting to Tokyo Station from Narita Airport is straightforward and convenient. Here are the main options:
- Narita Express (N’EX): Takes about 1 hour to reach Tokyo Station. The fare is 3,020 yen per adult.
- Keisei Skyliner: Takes about 41 minutes to Keisei Ueno Station, then a 10-minute ride on the JR Yamanote Line to Tokyo Station. The total fare is around 2,500 yen.
From Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport also offers easy access to Tokyo Station.
- Tokyo Monorail and JR Yamanote Line: About 18 minutes from Haneda to Hamamatsucho Station by monorail, then a 5-minute ride on the JR Yamanote Line to Tokyo Station. The total fare is around 660 yen.
- Keikyu Line and Toei Asakusa Line: About 30 minutes to Nihombashi Station, followed by a 10-minute walk to Tokyo Station. The fare is around 600 yen.
From Kansai International Airport
Traveling from Kansai to Tokyo Station is best done by Shinkansen.
- Shinkansen: About 2 hours and 30 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Tokyo Station. The fare is 14,720 yen one way.
- Flight: About 1 hour from Kansai International Airport to Haneda Airport, then follow the above methods to reach Tokyo Station.
Highlights of Tokyo Station
Historical Station Building
The Marunouchi side of Tokyo Station features a magnificent brick building that was completed in 1914. This structure, having survived wartime destruction and extensive restoration, was fully restored to its original grandeur in 2012. It is particularly stunning when illuminated at night.
Gransta and Ecute Tokyo
Tokyo Station houses various shopping and dining areas.
- Gransta: Located on the basement and ground floors, this shopping area offers fashion, souvenirs, and a wide range of dining options, from sushi and ramen to Western pastries.
- Ecute Tokyo: Located inside the ticket gates, it’s perfect for travelers looking to grab a quick bento or sweet treat before their journey.
KITTE
Adjacent to Tokyo Station is the KITTE building, a commercial complex operated by Japan Post. Here, you can enjoy shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The rooftop garden offers a fantastic view of the Tokyo Station building, making it a popular spot for photography.
Recommended Spots Around Tokyo Station
The Imperial Palace
A 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace offers a vast garden and historical buildings, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The East Gardens are free to enter and showcase beautiful seasonal landscapes.
Ginza
A 15-minute walk or one stop on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Ginza is one of Japan’s premier shopping districts. It features luxury brand stores and upscale restaurants, perfect for an afternoon of indulgence.
Marunouchi Naka-dori
Located in the Marunouchi area, Naka-dori is a sophisticated shopping street lined with art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It’s particularly beautiful in winter when the street is illuminated.
Transportation Access at Tokyo Station
Major Rail Lines
Tokyo Station is a major hub with numerous rail lines.
- JR Tokaido Shinkansen: Connects Tokyo with Osaka and Nagoya.
- JR Tohoku Shinkansen: Connects Tokyo with Sendai, Morioka, Akita, and Shin-Aomori.
- JR Yamanote Line: A circular line that covers Tokyo’s main areas.
- JR Chuo Line: Connects Tokyo with Shinjuku and Hachioji.
- JR Keiyo Line: Connects Tokyo with Maihama (Disneyland).
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line: Convenient for access to Shinjuku and Ikebukuro.
Neighboring Stations
Tokyo Station is surrounded by business districts and shopping areas.
- Kanda Station: One stop on the JR Yamanote Line, known for its business district and old bookshops.
- Yurakucho Station: One stop on the JR Yamanote Line, featuring cinemas and department stores.
Enjoying Your Time at Tokyo Station
Dining
Tokyo Station offers a wide variety of dining options.
- Sushi Dai: Known for its fresh sushi at reasonable prices.
- Ramen Street: Home to eight famous ramen shops. “Rokurinsha” is particularly popular, often with a long line.
- Ecute Sweets: A great place to find delicious sweets. “Tokyo Banana” is a popular souvenir.
Shopping
Tokyo Station is a shopper’s paradise.
- Tokyo Okashi Land: A haven for Japanese snacks and sweets, offering many exclusive items.
- Gransta: Offers a variety of fashion, accessories, and souvenirs.
Sightseeing Spots
Tokyo Station’s surrounding area is packed with attractions.
- Tokyo International Forum: A large cultural facility hosting numerous events and exhibitions.
- Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum: Features modern art exhibitions and is housed in a distinctive red-brick building.
Conclusion
Tokyo Station is a place where history and modernity beautifully converge, offering countless attractions for visitors. Its excellent access and diverse experiences make it an ideal destination for foreign tourists visiting Japan. Whether you’re into shopping, dining, or historical sightseeing, Tokyo Station and its surroundings have something for everyone. When you visit Tokyo, be sure to explore Tokyo Station and enjoy all it has to offer!