Of the 193,000 people who pass daily through the main station of Japan's third city, Nagoya, most are probably unaware they are in a building with no rival in the entire world. The station complex, known as the Twin Towers, is a Guinness World Records holder complete with a plaque proclaiming, "The JR Central Towers is the world's largest station building, with: 410,000 sq. meters (4,413,000 sq. feet) of floor space and a height of 245 meters (803.8 feet)."
The cylindrical skyscrapers which soar over the city consist of the 53-story Hotel Tower and the 51-floor Office Tower, which share a common base 15 floors high — with another six floors below ground. The station towers contain gardens, spas, cafes, bars, restaurants, department stores and an international hotel.
Ascending to the upper floors on certain days can be an astonishing experience, as you get to gaze at clouds at the same height, adding a surreal touch to the dramatic vastness of the city spread out below. But atop both towers, the brilliant views can be enjoyed at the same time as indulging in some serious creature comforts. On the 51st and top floor of the Office Tower, the old observation deck has been converted into cafe, wine bar and a beauty spa. The Hotel Tower has a lounge, restaurant and banqueting room on its 51st and 52nd floors.