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Graceful retro architecture restored to its original state after a century.
The construction of Japan’s front gate, Tokyo Station, began in March, 1908 and it was opened in December, 1914. Kingo Tatsuno, the pioneer of modern architecture in Japan, designed it. The steel-framed, brick Marunouchi Station building was burned on the roof and interior in the 1945 air raid. After the War, it was restored up to the 2nd floor and in use for over 60 years. In 2003, it was designated as a national important cultural property.
In 2012, while preserving the remaining building as much as possible, the lost 3rd floor was restored to its original state and the basement was equipped with extensive seismic isolation.
The north and south domes are over 30m (98 ft)-tall, and their 1st and 2nd floors were redesigned with modern functions, while preserving the classic restored parts. The 3rd and 4th floors and the ceiling were restored to the 1914 state with eight amazing zodiacs and eagle engraving.
Beautifully restored Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi building (Photo by General Corporate Tokyo Station City Management Council)
Looking up at the interior of the ceiling and north/south domes restored to the original design (Photo by General Corporate Tokyo Station City Management Council)
Within the domes’ eight corners, the zodiacs corresponding to the directions are painted (Photo by General Corporate Tokyo Station City Management Council)
Below the domes’ eight corners, eight valiant eagles are attached. 2.1m (7 ft) from wing to wing (Photo by General Corporate Tokyo Station City Management Council)
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Tokyo Station itself is a place worth taking some time to appreciate. The station building on the Marunouchi side is the familiar classical red-brick building. It opened in 1914 and features the “Tatsuno style” designed by Kingo Tatsuno. The current Marunouchi Station building is also an important historic structure that has been preserved after restoration. If you like classical architecture, take a good look at the exterior details when passing through the station, and you’ll find quite a few things worth seeing.
Compared with Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Station is somewhat easier to navigate, but the entire station is still very large, especially since the different exits, underground passages, and transfer areas are quite far apart. Just walking from the Yaesu side to another transfer area took me at least five or six minutes. If you’re planning to transfer at Tokyo Station and it’s your first time there, you really should allow extra time to get around and find your way inside the station.
The area around the Yaesu South Exit is a major boarding area for highway buses, including the AIRPORT BUS TYO-NRT to Narita Airport. There are also boarding points nearby for other local and long-distance buses. For first-time visitors to Tokyo, Tokyo Station is not only a major transfer station for the Shinkansen and JR lines, but also an important transportation hub for getting to the airport and other cities.
Tokyo Station's deep red brick exterior is especially striking, with a strong Western classical style that creates an interesting contrast with the surrounding modern high-rises. The station building combines red brick and white stone, and its symmetrical facade and intricate domes give the entire station an elegant appearance. Up close, you can really appreciate the charm of this historic building. The overall view from the Marunouchi side is especially worth seeing, and the rooflines and architectural details are great for photos. The last time I visited a client, I had the chance to see Tokyo Station from high above, and it was unforgettable. Besides the impressive architecture, Tokyo Station is also a major destination for souvenirs. If you're short on time, buying everything here at once is also a good option.
The Marunouchi Station Building at Tokyo Station immediately caught my eye with its beautiful red-brick architecture. Its retro exterior contrasts sharply with the surrounding skyscrapers, creating a uniquely Tokyo cityscape. Taking photos in front of the station really made me feel like I had arrived in Tokyo.
During this visit, besides admiring the Marunouchi Station Building, I also took my time strolling and shopping around the area. During the day, the station is filled with busy crowds, but once the lights come on at night, the entire building becomes warm and romantic, revealing a completely different kind of charm.
Tokyo Station blends historic and modern styles, with its elegant and impressive red-brick station building. It’s a major transportation hub in Tokyo. Inside, there are plenty of dining options, souvenir shops, and stores, making it convenient whether you’re taking photos, shopping, or transferring trains. It’s a must-visit landmark when traveling in Tokyo.
Every time I enter Tokyo Station, it feels like stepping into a huge maze. The high domed ceiling really makes you stop and look up.
With its modern, varied electronic payment options, getting in and out is really convenient. Since the cards are now minimalist in design, I got a registered card as a souvenir.
It has my name printed on it, so it’s not just my own personal travel pass. Every time I see it, I’m instantly reminded of the feeling of walking through the streets of Tokyo and looking up beneath the dome at Tokyo Station.
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