Tokyo Station

Overview

Tokyo Station is a grand red-brick railway terminus and architectural masterpiece serving as the central hub of Japan's bullet train network. Its meticulously restored Marunouchi facade is one of the most beautiful station buildings in the world.

Highlights

• Marunouchi Facade: The stunning 335-meter-long red brick exterior, faithfully restored in 2012 to its original 1914 three-story splendor after wartime damage had reduced it to two stories.
• Ramen Street: An underground corridor housing eight of Japan's top regional ramen shops, offering a culinary tour of Japan in a single basement.
• Ekiben: The station is famous for its elaborate bento boxes (ekiben) sold at dozens of specialized shops, designed specifically for train journeys.

History

Opened in 1914, designed by architect Tatsuno Kingo in a European Renaissance style inspired by Amsterdam Centraal Station. The top floors were destroyed in WWII air raids and only fully restored a century later in 2012 at a cost of ¥50 billion.

Visitor Tips

• Character Street: An underground shopping arcade featuring official stores for Studio Ghibli, Pokemon, Ultraman, and dozens of other Japanese pop culture brands.
• Nighttime: The restored facade is beautifully illuminated at night, reflecting in the KITTE building's glass facade across the plaza.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.