Text by MOOK Travel Life Network, compiled and reported by Chen Guanxin
At bustling train stations, touching scenes of reunions and farewells are among the most beloved views for many travelers. Yet in many parts of the world, stations are not merely buildings that provide train services or guidance for travelers. Whether classical or modern, the elegant lines of the station buildings, carved by day and night light, are themselves the most beautiful railway scenery.
When traveling around the world, besides visiting historical landmarks, don’t forget to admire the beautiful architecture of local train stations. (Image source / from the website http://www.hotels-belgium.com)
Belgium—Antwerp Central Station
Completed in 1905, this central station was recently renovated and remains bustling with travelers. This magnificent Neo-Baroque building features extensive use of metal and glass materials, along with classical clocks, splendid wall decorations, and grand stone staircases. It has earned the reputation of Europe’s “Railway Cathedral.” Abundant natural light pours through the glass roof into the station, adding a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere to the busy hub. On sunny days, it’s common to see art students in the hall sketching attentively with their pencils.
Antwerp Central Station in Belgium has been rated by the media as one of the most beautiful stations in the world. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Japan—Tokyo Station
Opened in 1914, Tokyo Station features an elegant red-brick exterior in the Renaissance style, giving the entire structure a dignified appearance. Compared to its classical exterior, the interior of Tokyo Station feels remarkably modern. LCD screens displaying the latest news are found throughout, and the station is fully equipped with trendy cafes, restaurants, and bookstores. Visitors can even enjoy traditional Japanese performing arts and stay overnight in the station’s hotel.
Tokyo Station has a classical exterior but a very modern interior. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Japan—Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa Station
Above the east entrance of JR Kanazawa Station looms a giant glass dome resembling a spider web, encasing the station like a massive umbrella, hinting at this rainy city. Outside the glass dome stands a vermilion “Drum Gate,” modeled after the Kaga Hosho drum used in Noh theater. The ultra-modern glass dome paired with the traditionally inspired Drum Gate symbolizes Kanazawa as a city where past and present coexist in elegance. JR Kanazawa Station is also a major railway hub in the Hokuriku region, offering train access to cities such as Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. In front of the east entrance, the bus terminal provides routes to various Kanazawa attractions, as well as long-distance buses to places like Takayama and Shirakawa-go.
The modern glass dome and traditionally styled Drum Gate at Kanazawa Station symbolize the city’s blend of old and new elegance. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
United Kingdom—London St. Pancras Station
Located in central London between the British Library and King’s Cross Station, St. Pancras Station is the European terminus for the Eurostar. Since gaining fame as a filming location for the Harry Potter movies, its counterpart across the street, King’s Cross Station, has become a favorite attraction for fans due to the iconic Platform 9¾.
St. Pancras Station rose to fame due to its appearance in the Harry Potter films. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)