6 Unique Train Stations in Japan: Tokyo Station Architecture & More Best Photo Spots
Japan is home to Unique Train Stations Japan travelers shouldn't miss—destinations that go beyond mere transit to stand as true works of art. At 47Trip.com, we’ve hand-picked six stops that perfectly blend Historic / Modern Architecture Japan, starting with the iconic Tokyo Station Architecture as well as gems in Kanazawa and Kyoto. These aren't just stopovers; they are the Best Photo Train Station locations to capture lasting memories. If you're looking for the ultimate Photo Spots Tokyo and beyond, be sure to check this guide before you depart!
Tokyo Station has long been loved by us Japanese people as a symbolic terminal representing the city. This is not merely a passing point for travel, but a wonderful tourist attraction in itself. The iconic Marunouchi building features beautiful retro red-brick Tokyo Station Architecture, where you can deeply feel the history of Japan. The beautiful relief decorations on the dome roofs of the Marunouchi entrance are also a must-see.Furthermore, inside the station building, there is a gallery that utilizes the original brick walls from the time of construction—a unique feature among Historic Train Stations Japan—where you can also appreciate art. The illuminated appearance at night is also recommended, and the magical atmosphere wrapped in warm light makes for one of the Best Photo Spots Tokyo. Please create wonderful travel memories at this place that is so special to us Japanese people.
Recommended Hotel
Super Hotel Premier Tokyo Station Yaesu-Chuoguchi
Located just steps from Tokyo Station’s Yaesu Central Exit, this is the perfect hub for Shinkansen travelers. A major highlight is the large public bath, allowing you to relax right in the city center. Paired with their popular pillow selection service, you’ll be fully recharged and ready for tomorrow's sightseeing.
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Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kyobashi
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Keio Presso Inn Tokyo Station Yaesu
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Kanazawa Station (Ishikawa)
Recognized globally as one of the world's most beautiful stations, Kanazawa Station is a premier photo spot and undoubtedly one of the Coolest Train Stations Japan has to offer. Your arrival is marked by the majestic, wooden Kanazawa Station Tsuzumi Gate, designed to resemble a traditional hand drum.The contrast with the futuristic glass "Motenashi Dome" behind it is simply stunning. This massive glass structure showcases Modern Japanese Architecture while symbolizing a warm welcome—like an umbrella extended to travelers in rainy Kanazawa. Don't miss the chance to capture a memorable shot at this gateway where tradition and innovation converge.
Recommended Hotel
Dormy Inn Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring
Ideally situated just a 2-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, this hotel’s crowning jewel is its authentic natural hot spring on the top floor. It features a sauna and an open-air bath where you can feel the gentle breeze. Designed with the serene atmosphere of a Japanese garden, it is the perfect place to stretch out and unwind.
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Kanazawa Manten Hotel Ekimae
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VIA INN Kanazawa JR WEST GROUP
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Standing as the gateway to Kyushu, Mojiko Station is a rare wooden masterpiece in the Neo-Renaissance style, making it a highlight among Retro Stations Japan. Built during the Taisho era, its stunning symmetrical design has earned it designation as a National Important Cultural Property.Following extensive restoration, the station has been magnificently returned to its original glory and continues to fascinate visitors as a "living cultural property" still in active use. The station anchors one of the most scenic Historic Ports Japan, known as the Mojiko Retro Area. Here, Western-style buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras create a nostalgic townscape perfect for a stroll after admiring the station's architecture.
Recommended Hotel
Premier Hotel Mojiko
Located just a 2-minute walk from Mojiko Station, this designer hotel was crafted by the renowned Italian master Aldo Rossi. Its modern exterior harmonizes beautifully with the historic streetscape, while guest rooms offer sweeping views of the Kanmon Strait and Kanmon Bridge. Highly acclaimed for its architecture, the hotel’s greatest appeal lies in the unique opportunity to indulge in both world-class design and stunning scenery.
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Hotel Route Inn Mojiko
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GRAND BASE Mojiko Ekimae
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As the gateway to Japan's ancient capital, Kyoto Station defies expectations as one of the most Futuristic Train Stations Japan boasts. Its colossal atrium, constructed from thousands of glass panes and steel beams, possesses the dramatic impact of a massive modern art installation.For a unique perspective on this Kyoto Station Architecture, walk through the "Skyway" tunnel near the ceiling. It offers a sweeping view of the station’s geometric interior and the towering Kyoto Tower right before your eyes, making it a premier Modern Kyoto Photo Spot. Don't miss this unique "sky walk" experience that contrasts so boldly with the city's traditional streetscapes.
Recommended Hotel
Natural Hot Spring Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto Ekimae
Just a 3-minute walk from Kyoto Station, this Dormy Inn hotel offers a rare luxury for the area: a large public bath fed by natural hot springs. The facility includes open-air baths and high-temperature saunas. Guests love the unified Japanese design throughout the hotel, which perfectly balances modern functionality with traditional aesthetics.
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Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi
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Hotel Elcient Kyoto Hachijoguchi
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Yokohama Station (Kanagawa)
Yokohama Station is far more than a simple transit stop; it feels like a massive, constantly evolving futuristic city. Its intricate structure and the impressive array of connected modern malls make it a key highlight of any Yokohama Train Station Guide.From latest fashion to gourmet dining, navigating this "labyrinth" is an adventure in itself, offering some of the Best Shopping near Tokyo. It also boasts unbeatable convenience as the central hub for Minato Mirai Access and the scenic bay area. We recommend making this vibrant terminal the starting point for your Yokohama travels to seamlessly enjoy both sightseeing and world-class retail therapy.
Recommended Hotel
Richmond Hotel Yokohama Ekimae
Situated just a 2-minute walk from Yokohama Station’s Kita-Nishi (North-West) Exit, this hotel offers exceptional convenience in an area known for its complexity. Its prime location allows you to quickly drop off heavy luggage and enjoy hands-free sightseeing in Minato Mirai or shopping at the connected malls. Inside, you’ll find a haven of silence away from the city bustle, where Simmons beds promise a restful sleep to fully recharge you.
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KEIKYU EX INN Yokohama-Station East -Yokohama Water front
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Hotel The Knot Yokohama
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As the "cultural gateway" to the capital, Ueno Station is an essential landmark for art and history lovers, standing as a true Cultural Hub Tokyo prides itself on. The vast central concourse, with its soaring ceilings, exudes a unique dignity and nostalgia, echoing the footsteps of countless travelers from the past.Stepping out of the "Park Exit," you are greeted by lush greenery and immediate Ueno Park Museums Access. This leads you directly to Japan’s premier cultural institutions, such as the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Western Art. We highly recommend adding this intellectual walking tour to your Tokyo Station Itineraries to fully appreciate both the station's charm and the surrounding art spots.
Recommended Hotel
Hotel Sardonyx Ueno
Located just a short walk from Ueno Station, this hotel distinguishes itself with a feature often hard to find in the capital: spacious guest rooms. You’ll have ample space to fully open your suitcases and still relax comfortably. Every room is equipped with a wide 140cm Simmons bed, ensuring high-quality sleep to revitalize you for the next day's sightseeing.
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Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno
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APA Hotel Ueno Ekimae
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Summary
We have introduced unique spots themed around Japan’s artistic train stations. The grandeur of the historic Tokyo Station Architecture and the beauty of the fusion of Historic / Modern Architecture Japan found in various regions are truly breathtaking when seen in person. Of course, you can make these Best Photo Train Station spots your main destination, or simply stop by as a transit point during your trip to Japan. Either way, please try capturing your own special photo.
