Asia’s railways are not only conduits of travel but also showcases of cultural identity, historical grandeur and cutting-edge design. From ornate colonial terminals and imperial-era icons to futuristic transit hubs, the continent’s train stations tell stories far beyond their platforms. Some embody the spirit of bygone empires, others celebrate local craftsmanship, while a few redefine urban architecture with sustainable innovation. In this edition, Top 10 of Asia takes a look at its list of the 10 most unique train stations in Asia (presented in no particular order).
Kanazawa Station, Japan
A striking blend of modern innovation and traditional Japanese aesthetics, the Kanazawa Station in Japan is one of the most unique train stations in Asia. The station’s most iconic feature, the Tsuzumi-mon Gate, resembles a traditional torii gate and tsuzumi drums, symbolising the city’s rich cultural heritage. Behind it, the glass-and-steel Motenashi Dome offers both shelter and a sense of grandeur. Inside, wooden pillars embedded with local crafts honour Kanazawa’s artisanal legacy. Originally built in 1898, the station has evolved from a humble wooden structure into an award-winning architectural landmark. Its current form, completed in 2005, reflects the city’s dual spirit—respecting tradition while embracing the future.
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Malaysia
Malaysia, a nation steeped in history, is vividly reflected through its architectural heritage. The Kuala Lumpur Railway Station stands as a remarkable example, exemplifying Indo-Saracenic architecture that artfully integrates Moorish, Mughal and British colonial design elements. Opened in 1910, the station features grand domes, intricate arches and elegant minaret-like turrets that evoke the splendor of Indian palaces and Islamic architecture. Its creamy white facade and delicate detailing make it one of the most beautiful buildings in Kuala Lumpur. Though it now serves fewer trains, the station remains a striking architectural gem—rich in history and timeless in its visual grandeur.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, India
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai is a spectacular fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architecture. Designed by British architect F. W. Stevens and completed in 1888, the station features a grand stone dome, soaring turrets, pointed arches and intricate ornamentation reminiscent of Indian palaces. The building’s dramatic facade and richly detailed interiors reflect a unique cultural synthesis, created through collaboration between British architects and Indian craftsmen. As both a functional railway hub and architectural masterpiece, it stands as a symbol of Mumbai’s colonial past and commercial strength. Its grandeur continues to captivate millions of commuters and visitors alike.
Gyeonghwa Station, South Korea
No other train stations in Korea rivals Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae for sheer picturesque beauty. Though no longer in service since 2006, this quaint station transforms every spring into a floral spectacle. Cherry trees line the disused tracks, creating an enchanting pink tunnel that attracts thousands of visitors. During the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival (April 1–10), the scenery reaches its zenith, and a special slow-speed shuttle train offers a magical journey through the blossoms. With its tranquil ambiance and romantic allure, Gyeonghwa Station remains an iconic and cherished springtime destination in Korea.
Beijing Station, China
Beijing Railway Station, opened in 1959, is a prominent example of mid-20th-century Chinese architecture, combining Chinese socialist design with Stalinist influences. Covering 46,700 square meters, its distinctive turrets and spacious plazas are complemented by calligraphy from Chairman Mao, adding historical depth. Located near Tian’anmen Square, the station reflects an important era in China’s development and has witnessed significant events. While newer, modern stations have emerged, Beijing Railway Station remains a key cultural landmark, seamlessly connecting traditional architectural elements with a vast railway network serving both domestic and international travelers.
Ramses Train Station, Cairo, Egypt
Ramses Railway Station, also known as Misr Station, is Cairo’s central rail hub and a significant historical landmark. First established in 1856 as the terminus of Egypt’s inaugural railway line from Alexandria, the current building was completed in 1892, showcasing a distinctive Heliopolis-style facade paired with industrial-age engineering. The station underwent major renovations between 2001 and 2011, with further upgrades completed in 2014, including modern amenities and improved infrastructure. Named after Pharaoh Ramses II, it also houses the Egyptian Railways Museum, which traces the evolution of transport in Egypt from ancient times to the present through exhibits, models and archives.
Sirkeci Terminal, Istanbul, Turkey
Once the final stop of the legendary Orient Express, Sirkeci Railway Station—completed in 1890—remains one of Istanbul’s most iconic architectural landmarks. Designed by Prussian architect August Jasmund, it embodies a striking East-meets-West aesthetic, blending Seljuk-inspired horseshoe arches, intricate stained glass and Orientalist motifs with European materials and engineering. Nestled along the Bosphorus near Topkapı Palace, Sirkeci became a symbol of Istanbul’s cosmopolitan identity and its role as a gateway between continents. Today, following careful restoration and integration into the city’s modern rail network, it endures as a living monument to the golden age of rail travel and Ottoman elegance.
Tashkent Metro, Uzbekistan
The Tashkent Metro, opened in 1977, is Central Asia’s first underground rail system and a hidden architectural gem. Conceived after the 1966 earthquake, it was built not only for functionality but also to showcase cultural pride. Each of its 50 stations features elaborate designs—marble columns, carved alabaster, stained glass and Soviet-era mosaics—blending Uzbek artistic traditions with Soviet monumentalism. Themes range from space exploration to classical poetry, making every stop a tribute to history and heritage. Once off-limits for photography, the metro is now open to all, offering travelers a unique glimpse into Uzbekistan’s post-Soviet and architectural evolution underground.
Hua Hin Train Station, Thailand
Built during the reign of King Rama VI, Hua Hin Railway Station is one of Thailand’s oldest and most architecturally distinctive train stations. Originally completed in 1926, the red-and-white wooden structure showcases a charming Victorian gingerbread style, featuring carved wooden details and half-timbered construction. Its most iconic feature is the Royal Waiting Room—originally part of Sanam Chan Palace—relocated to Hua Hin in 1974. Designed in traditional Thai architectural style, it adds regal elegance to the station’s nostalgic atmosphere. Today, the station stands as a beloved heritage site and a proud symbol of Hua Hin’s development during Thailand’s early railway era.
Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, Hong Kong
Designed by Aedas and nestled beside Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong West Kowloon Station is a striking fusion of sustainability and architectural innovation. Its sweeping 147-foot-tall hall is crowned by a green roof planted with over 700 trees, forming the 7.5-acre Green Plaza where locals gather and visitors admire the city skyline. A vast curtain wall of 4,000 glass panels floods the interior with daylight, while 8,000 tonnes of steel shape its dramatic curved ceiling. Supported by nine towering columns, the station integrates three hectares of public space, including the scenic Sky Corridor—offering panoramic views and transforming travel into a visual experience.