Cecelia ChangWhen travelling to a foreign country, a visit to its train station is almost inevitable, especially if you’re exploring between cities. In Asia, where architectural wonders abound, some of the most captivating are the region’s stunning railway stations.
From historic landmarks to modern marvels, we’ve curated some of Asia’s most beautiful train stations that promise a visual feast for travellers seeking beauty and inspiration along the journey. Read on and discover which one of these train stations in Asia is your favourite!
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Beautiful train stations in Asia you’ll want to visit
1. Kanazawa Station, Japan
Image credit: 663highland | Wikimedia Commons
Situated in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan, the Kanazawa Station is a major railway station housed within a multifunctional building that includes a hotel, restaurants, and shops. More than a transportation hub, this station is actually best known for its architectural masterpiece, harmonising modern innovation with the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The station is home to a massive glass dome called the Motenashi (Welcome) Dome. As visitors make their way towards the dome, they’ll encounter the giant Tsuzumi-mon gate. This wooden gate features a striking design, which pays homage to the traditional Japanese instrument known as the tsuzumi or hand drums. Nowadays, it has attracted many avid photographers who are eager to capture its stunning beauty.
2. Hoshakuji Station, Japan
Image credit: Tochigi Prefecture Tourism & Local Products Association | Official Website
Aside from the Kanazawa Station, Hoshakuji Station in Takanezawa, Tochigi, is also often regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in Japan. Originally opened in 1899, the station underwent a major renovation in 2008. Impressively, one of Japan’s most esteemed architects, Kengo Kuma, also took charge of the design.
Famous for his work on the designs of Japan’s National Stadium and Kadokawa Musashino Museum, Kuma turned Hoshakuji Station into one of his masterpieces. As you step in, you’ll see a ceiling made of wooden panels adorned with interwoven geometric patterns. These intricate designs create a mesmerising 3D effect, setting it apart from other train stations.
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3. Charbagh Railway Station, India
Image credit: Mohit | Wikimedia Commons
The Charbagh Station is located in Lucknow, India, and it’s one of the largest railway stations in North India. Featuring a lush garden, vibrant colours, and captivating architecture, it enjoys widespread renown as one of the most beautiful train stations in the country. India’s Ministry of Railways even described the station as resembling a chessboard, as the pillars and domes look similar to chess pieces when viewed from above.
4. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, India
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Another beautiful train station to visit in India is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, located in the city of Mumbai. The historic station boasts an impressive blend of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, with traditional Indian domes, turrets, and pointed arches.
Beyond its breathtaking architecture, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus has also been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What’s more, it serves as a vital hub connecting passengers travelling within and beyond Mumbai, offering access to local trains, long-distance journeys, and more.
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5. Duoliang Station, Taiwan
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Another gorgeous train station in Asia is Duoliang Station in Taitung, Taiwan. With the station overlooking the Pacific Ocean, we totally get why it’s hailed as the most beautiful train station in Taiwan. Even though it ceased operations in 2006, it has since been repurposed into an enchanting observation deck. Visitors can bask in the panoramic views of the blue sea and verdant landscapes while relishing the nostalgic ambience of the railway platform.
6. Gyeonghwa Station, South Korea
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Adding to the list of Asia’s most stunning train stations is Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae, South Korea. While Gyeonghwa Station already discontinued railway services, it continues to attract swarms of tourists, especially during springtime. This is thanks to the captivating rows of cherry blossom trees adorning the railroad, making it one of Jinhae’s most popular cherry blossom viewing destinations. Additionally, the station now houses the Jinhae Publicity Centre, exhibiting trains that once ran on the tracks.
Also read: South Korea Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024: When & Where to Go
7. Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, Hong Kong
Image credit: Leung Cho Pan via CanvaPro
While perhaps not as widely known as some of the other beautiful train stations on the list, Hong Kong West Kowloon Station is undeniably a sight to behold. Conveniently situated next to the West Kowloon Cultural District, the Hong Kong station features a unique curved architecture.
Notable features of this station include a massive curtain wall composed of over 4,000 irregular glass panels, designed to optimise natural light and energy efficiency. What’s more, its curved ceiling, constructed from more than 8,000 tonnes of steel, is almost the weight of the Eiffel Tower. Visitors must also ascend to the station’s rooftop! Here, you’ll see a refreshing space embellished with trees and shrubs, with a great view of the cityscape.
8. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Malaysia
Image credit: Leonid Andronov via CanvaPro
In the heart of Malaysia‘s bustling capital, the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history. This architectural gem, built in 1910, showcases a unique Indo-Saracenic architecture style, featuring intricate details, domes, and minarets. Although the station’s role as a major transportation hub has been replaced by KL Sentral, it continues to beckon visitors eager to admire its elegance and charm.
Today, Kuala Lumpur Railway Station only accommodates a few local KTM Komuter trains. Those interested in exploring the country’s railway heritage can also visit the Railway Museum. Set on the ground floor of the station, the museum offers free admission to visitors.
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So there you go, stunning train stations in Asia that you simply must visit on your upcoming adventure. Have you been to any of these train stations, or which one is on your list for your next visit? Share with us on our Facebook page and follow us for more travel guides!
