While Kyoto is perceived as one of the more traditional Japanese cities, the Kyoto station stands in stark contrast to that idea. Opened to the public in 1997, the structure is fascinatingly futuristic, so much so that you’d start wondering if you’ve entered a parallel post-apocalyptic world of sorts. Designed by Hara Kiroshi, a renowned Japanese architect, this modern marvel is all steel and looks indomitable even from a distance. Interestingly, Hiroshi also designed the gigantic Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, yet another illustration of his artistic prowess. The main hall of the station with its exposed steel roof is known as the ‘Matrix’ and rightly so because it looks like a striking but convoluted maze, captivating even the busiest, the hastiest of passengers. The fact that it is a station continues to surprise many because it is more of an extremely important sight in Kyoto. The location of this amazing grid structure couldn’t have been more perfect given how it directly faces the Kyoto Tower and several popular hotels.

The transportation hub of Kyoto with its Railway and Subway Lines, this station also has a massive bus terminal. Moreover, its extent can be gauged by the fact that there are two sides to this station: Karasuma and Hachijo. This 15 floor giant also houses a hotel, several restaurants and bars, a theatre, a museum and shopping complexes. What more could a traveller possibly ask for?