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Taho Tower is Kyoto’s bold fusion of past and future—a sleek glass tower that mirrors changing skies, housing century-old tea shops and artisan crafts within. From the observatory, gaze across the city: old tiled roofs dance with modern spires. One moment, you’re touching history; the next, you’re gazing at tomorrow. Pure magic.
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, this hotel blends ancient capital charm with modern luxury. Steps away from the Kyoto Imperial Palace and historic Sanjo-dori Street, it offers a bar, fitness center, and spa for ultimate relaxation. With family-friendly amenities like children’s supplies and practical services like laundry, it’s perfect for all travelers. Rated 4.8, it’s your gateway to authentic Japanese elegance.
Everything you need to know about Taho Tower
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is a top choice, located just steps from Taho Tower, offering luxurious Japanese-style rooms with serene private garden views. The hotel features traditional tea ceremonies, award-winning kaiseki dining, and a tranquil atmosphere blending modern elegance with authentic Kyoto culture.
Another excellent option is Hotel Granvia Kyoto, known for its contemporary design and convenient access to Taho Tower. Rooms boast panoramic views of the tower and surrounding greenery, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and style. Both hotels are centrally located, making them perfect for business or leisure visitors exploring Kyoto’s vibrant heart.
From Kyoto Station, take the Tozai Subway Line to "Nijo Castle-mae Station", then transfer to a bus or walk about 10 minutes to reach Taho Tower. Alternatively, board a free shuttle bus (e.g., Kyoto City Bus) directly from the station to the "Taho Tower" stop—just a 15-minute ride.
For a scenic journey, stroll along the Kamo River promenade; it takes around 25 minutes and offers beautiful views of historic Kyoto, cherry blossoms in spring, and traditional architecture—perfect for travelers who enjoy walking through cultural landscapes.
Near Taho Tower, visitors can join hands-on traditional lacquerware workshops led by local artisans, crafting personalized pieces that reflect Japan’s meticulous craftsmanship. These sessions offer deep insight into centuries-old techniques.
Every Saturday afternoon, a Gion Tea Ceremony is held in the tower’s plaza, where guests enjoy handmade matcha while learning basic tea etiquette in a serene setting. Additionally, the nighttime light art exhibition transforms the tower and surrounding buildings into dynamic installations, combining light, sound, and storytelling—ideal for photographers and culture enthusiasts seeking unforgettable moments.
Near Taho Tower, the Kyoto Children's Science Museum offers interactive exhibits designed for families, including hands-on physics experiments, earthquake simulation zones, and a small planetarium—making science fun for kids.
Just a short walk away, Heian Shrine Park features vast lawns, century-old cherry trees, and bike paths, perfect for family picnics, kite flying, and cycling. The park also provides child-friendly guided tours and historical signage, blending outdoor recreation with educational exploration—ideal for creating memorable moments with children in a peaceful, green setting.
Try the seasonal matcha mochi at "Sankido", a renowned confectionery shop right next to the tower, made with premium Kyoto-grown matcha for a rich, delicate flavor.
Don’t miss Kizoku-tei, a hidden gem serving exquisite kaiseki cuisine using seasonal ingredients, presented with artistic flair in a serene garden setting—perfect for a refined dining experience.
For a lively street food adventure, head to Shijo Kawaramachi Night Market, where you can savor steaming Kyoto ramen and crispy takoyaki skewers at affordable prices. These culinary delights showcase Kyoto’s blend of tradition and urban vibrancy, making every meal an authentic journey.
Taho Tower is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with last entry at 8:30 PM. The 360-degree observation deck offers panoramic views of Kyoto’s cityscape and distant Mount Hiei.
Weekends and holidays feature a nighttime light show, where music and projection mapping transform the tower into a living canvas, narrating Kyoto’s history and natural beauty—lasting about 45 minutes.
On the first Saturday of each month, a Stargazing Night event is held on the tower’s rooftop, complete with professional telescopes and expert guides, allowing visitors to gaze at the stars above the bustling city—a rare moment of serenity amidst urban life.
Hyatt Regency Kyoto is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Taho Tower. The hotel blends modern architecture with traditional Japanese design, offering rooms with views of the Kamo River and distant glimpses of Fushimi Inari Shrine's iconic red torii gates. Its rooftop bar and on-site onsen provide serene retreats perfect for unwinding after exploring the city.
Conveniently situated near the Shijo Station on the Karasuma Line, guests can easily access Taho Tower and nearby attractions like Gion, known for its geisha culture and traditional tea houses. For an unforgettable experience, dine at the hotel’s sky-high restaurant to enjoy panoramic views of Taho Tower illuminated at night while savoring a refined kaiseki meal.
The hotel also offers cultural programs such as tea ceremonies and kimono rentals, enhancing your authentic Kyoto journey.
From Taho Tower, take the subway to Gion Shijo Station (Karasuma Line) and walk 10 minutes to Gion, where you can stroll through historic streets and spot geisha in traditional attire. To visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, hop on the Keihan Nara Line to "Fushimi Inari Station"—just a 15-minute ride—passing through lush forest paths lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates.
Multiple bus routes, including lines 206 and 207, depart near Taho Tower, connecting directly to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Ninenzaka Slope. For a scenic route, rent a bicycle along the Kamo River and cycle toward the Higashiyama district, enjoying cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant autumn foliage.
Pro tip: Visit Pontocho Alley in the evening for authentic Kyoto cuisine—narrow alleyways filled with cozy izakayas serving seasonal kaiseki dishes and sake, perfect for capturing the city’s nocturnal charm.
Near Taho Tower, visitors can join a tea ceremony workshop hosted by Gion Cultural Hall, where you’ll learn the rituals of Japanese tea preparation while dressed in a kimono amidst a tranquil garden setting. Another must-try is the Kyo Yuzen Dyeing Workshop, where you can craft your own silk fan or fabric using traditional hand-painting techniques under expert guidance.
Art enthusiasts should explore the Kyoto International Museum of Art, located just steps away, which features rotating exhibitions of ukiyo-e prints and contemporary East Asian art, often accompanied by live artist talks.
For a magical evening experience, attend the Evening Maiko Performance in Pontocho Alley every Saturday—tiny lantern-lit alleys come alive with elegant dance and music from apprentice geiko, offering a rare glimpse into Kyoto’s living heritage.
All activities are bookable in advance via official websites or local tourism centers, so early reservations are recommended.
Marriott Kyoto is a top-rated family-friendly hotel near Taho Tower, featuring spacious family suites, a dedicated children’s playroom, and complimentary childcare services. The hotel boasts an indoor pool and a landscaped garden ideal for kids to play safely.
Monthly highlights include "Kyoto Story Night," an interactive event combining storytelling, traditional puppet shows, and hands-on crafts like paper umbrella making—perfect for engaging young minds.
Parents can unwind at the spa and sauna facilities while children participate in supervised activities. The hotel also provides free shuttle buses to Taho Tower and major attractions, plus nearby supermarkets and kid-friendly restaurants for convenient dining and shopping.
With multilingual staff and stroller rentals available, this hotel ensures a stress-free, joyful stay for families exploring Kyoto’s rich cultural landscape.
See what other travelers say about Taho Tower
Staying at Hotel the Celestine Kyoto Gion was an absolute delight. The space is thoughtfully designed—removing shoes before entering the room gives it that authentic, serene feel, and the layout feels open and airy, with no cramped business hotel vibe. The rooms are spotlessly clean, and having windows that actually open makes a huge difference for fresh air and natural light. Breakfast stood out even among other high-end Japanese hotels—especially the popular tempura bar, where they serve freshly fried tempura daily with creative variations. It’s delicious and worth waking up early for. My favorite part? The lounge area in photo five—perfect for waiting for your shuttle. Coffee and tea are available throughout the day, and from 4 to 6 PM, there’s a nice selection of alcoholic drinks. Sipping a cold beer while watching the cityscape through the window? Pure relaxation. And this one red maple leaf 🍁? It’s honestly the only shot from my trip that I’m proud of. Would absolutely come back.
Staying at Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Sanjo PREMIER was an absolute delight. Located just off Sanjo-dori, near the convenient Omiya-Kiichi intersection, getting around Kyoto is a breeze—everything is within easy reach by subway or on foot. The service throughout our stay was exceptional: attentive, friendly, and professional without being overbearing. Our room was spacious, well-designed, and impeccably clean, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring. The breakfast buffet was impressive—plenty of options including both Western and Japanese favorites, all fresh and delicious. It’s no surprise that many international travelers choose this hotel; it truly feels like a home away from home. The neighborhood is quiet yet vibrant, with great dining spots, convenience stores, and shopping nearby. For comfort, location, and value, this hotel exceeds expectations. I’d definitely book again if I return to Kyoto.
I stayed at sequence hotel KYOTO GOJO and had a generally positive experience. The facilities are modern and well-designed—the ground floor has a restaurant and what looks like a lounge area, while the entrance and lobby have a fresh, non-traditional hotel vibe that feels more like a lifestyle space. Room cleanliness was decent, but I was surprised that housekeeping only came every other day. If you want fresh towels, you need to ask for them yourself—something I found inconvenient. I originally booked four nights but checked out after just two due to this. On the plus side, there’s no bathtub—just a shower—which I actually appreciate as it frees up space and makes the bathroom feel more efficient. The room itself is quite spacious, which is impressive given the price point in Kyoto; the value-for-money aspect is solid. The overall ambiance is sleek and minimalist with a dark-toned design that gives it a stylish, contemporary feel. However, the layout of the sink and bathroom area seems a bit awkward, especially without a tub—there’s some unused potential in the space. Service was unremarkable but not bad—no one mentioned the free drink offered daily during check-in (though it’s visible near the elevator), and the basement level features a steam room and hot tub, though I didn’t get to try them. Unlike many Japanese hotels that offer complimentary water or coffee in common areas, this one doesn’t—so that was a small disappointment. Overall, if the rate is reasonable, it’s worth considering. My booking was around $500 per night, which I found acceptable, but I’d hesitate at a higher price.
Staying in a spacious four-person room at the underground annex was a real highlight. The room itself was generously sized, and the on-site hot spring bath area was impressive—large, relaxing, and very well-maintained. Location couldn’t be better: walking distance to Gion, Kiyomizu-dera, and plenty of local restaurants and shops. If you're driving, arrive early to secure parking—there are six nearby lots near the hotel, but availability is hit-or-miss, especially during peak times. I ended up having to park elsewhere when I arrived late, which was a bit inconvenient. For self-drivers, booking parking in advance is strongly recommended. Otherwise, the convenience of public transport makes it even more appealing. Overall, this place offers exceptional value and comfort—highly recommend for travelers seeking both luxury and location.
Staying at Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, friendly service—always smiling, helpful, and attentive without being intrusive. The hotel itself is beautifully designed with a refined, elegant atmosphere that instantly makes you feel relaxed and welcome. Located right next to Kyoto Station, everything is incredibly convenient: hopping on trains, exploring the city, or grabbing a bite is just steps away. The surrounding area has a fantastic food court with trendy restaurants and local favorites, making dining easy and enjoyable. Shopping, sightseeing, and commuting are all seamless thanks to the prime location. I’ve already recommended this hotel to friends and family, and I’ll definitely be back for my next trip to Kyoto. A perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and charm.
Staying at this serene hotel was a true highlight of my trip to Kyoto. The blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern Western touches creates a calming, elegant atmosphere from the moment you step in. While the rooms are compact, every inch is thoughtfully designed for comfort and functionality—perfect for a peaceful retreat. One of the best perks? Daily access to the shared bathhouse, where I could unwind with a warm soak each evening. The amenities are excellent, and the surrounding neighborhood is fantastic—wandering through quiet alleyways, I discovered charming local eateries serving authentic, flavorful street food. Just a short walk from Nishiki Market, and within 100 meters of a budget-friendly grocery store—perfect for grabbing snacks or essentials. Public transportation is super convenient, making it easy to explore the city. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, attentive service, and the breakfast spread was generous and delicious. This place truly delivers exceptional value and warmth. Highly recommend for anyone seeking a tranquil yet well-connected stay in Kyoto.
Staying at Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokyoji was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of bustling Kawaramachi Street, with shopping malls and a wide variety of restaurants just steps from the hotel entrance. Getting around to major attractions via train or bus is incredibly convenient. The room itself is bright and spacious enough for a comfortable stay, with no sense of being cramped. I’d heard concerns about views overlooking a cemetery, but if you request a different room during booking, the staff happily accommodates—no issues at all. Clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed, this hotel delivers on every level. Highly recommend it—definitely a place I’ll return to on my next trip to Kyoto.
Staying at Six Senses Kyoto was an absolute highlight of my trip to Japan. From the moment I walked in, the warm and thoughtful Japanese hospitality stood out—staff were polite, attentive, and genuinely welcoming without being overbearing. The hotel itself feels fresh and modern, with a strong emphasis on sustainability woven into every detail, from the food and drinks to the design. I couldn’t book the spa (it’s famously popular), but the on-site hot spring was a wonderful alternative—perfect for unwinding after a long day. The omakase restaurant downstairs was an unforgettable experience; watching the chef craft each piece of sushi with such precision and care felt like art in motion. Even though I had the place mostly to myself during dinner and drinks at the bar, service remained impeccable and personal. Breakfast was a half-self-service spread—I enjoyed the Western-style options, though the omelette could’ve been fluffier. The Japanese rice was excellent, and while other dishes were just average, the welcome fruits and little pastries added a sweet touch, even if they didn’t quite hit the mark flavor-wise. A small disappointment: no welcome champagne, but that’s just a minor note in what was otherwise a flawless stay. If you’re looking for a serene, eco-conscious retreat with exceptional service and culinary charm, this is it.
Staying at Kyoran Kisaragitei was an absolute delight. The moment I stepped into the property, I was captivated by the serene garden area—perfectly manicured with traditional Japanese elements that create a calming atmosphere. The room itself was spacious, clean, and well-appointed with modern comforts blended seamlessly with classic design. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches like high-quality toiletries and excellent bedding. What truly stood out was the location—within walking distance to major attractions like Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, yet tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. There are plenty of local cafes, boutiques, and restaurants nearby, making it easy to explore Kyoto’s charm without needing to travel far. For a peaceful retreat with great convenience, this place is a must-book.
The location is excellent—just a short walk from Kyoto Station, making it super convenient for exploring the city and getting around by train. The hotel is spotlessly clean with all the essentials you’d expect, and the room amenities are well thought out. The only minor downside is that the two beds are placed side by side, which might not be ideal if you prefer more space between sleeping areas. One thing to note: after booking online, there’s an additional tax to pay upon check-in—I initially thought it was a deposit and even asked the front desk for a refund at checkout, only to get a confused look in return! Lesson learned. Also, if you want housekeeping service, make sure to place a sign outside your door—unlike some hotels back home, they don’t automatically assume cleaning is needed. Overall, this is a great stay with strong value for money, especially given the central location and clean, modern rooms. I’d definitely recommend it.
Absolutely loved my stay! The hotel is perfectly located right next to major attractions, making it super convenient to explore Kyoto's top sights without needing to travel far. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with modern amenities. I appreciated the quiet atmosphere and the thoughtful touches that made the experience feel personal. Being just steps away from local charm and culture made the whole trip even more memorable. Highly recommend this spot for travelers who want a peaceful retreat while staying in the heart of the action.
Staying here for three nights was an absolute delight! The hotel is incredibly clean and well-maintained, with a warm, authentic Japanese atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The breakfast was a standout—each morning brought a slightly different selection, keeping things fresh and enjoyable. I especially appreciated the friendly and attentive staff at the front desk; two of the ladies were genuinely helpful and went out of their way to assist us with any concerns. Their kindness truly enhanced our experience. Located just a short walk from major attractions like Gion and Fushimi Inari, it’s super convenient for exploring Kyoto. This place offers excellent value and comfort—definitely a top pick for anyone visiting the city.
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