How to Build a Multi-Level Japanese Train Station in Cities Skylines

PHTN
May 15
2 min read

Updated: May 20

How to Build a Multi-Level Japanese Train Station in Cities Skylines

Train stations are the heart of any Japanese city. In Episode 3, we construct a fictional Shinjuku Station — a mid-size passenger terminal with stacked levels, covered platforms, and an elevated parking area. This is Part 1 of a two-part build.

What Makes Japanese Stations Unique

Japanese train stations are vertical mini-cities. Even mid-size stations pack platform levels with covered awnings, concourse levels with ticket gates and shops, upper levels with parking or commercial space, and street-level entrances integrated into surrounding buildings.

This vertical stacking is what makes them so interesting to recreate — and so challenging. The game does not natively support multi-level buildings, so we fake it with careful layering of assets and props.

Stage 1: Station Platform and Awning

We start at track level with platform assets and concrete surface props. The awning runs the full length using elevated props positioned with Move It. Node Controller straightens track segments through the platform area.

Stage 2: Main Station Building

The concourse level spans all platforms below, creating a bridge-like structure. The main building sits on pillars straddling the tracks — the trickiest part requiring visible pillars between platform awning and building floor.

Stage 3: Elevated Parking Area

On the rooftop, a parking structure with bay markings using IMT, perimeter barriers, an access ramp, and an elevator stairwell. This three-layer stack — platform, concourse, parking — gives the station its distinctly Japanese character.

Looking Ahead to Part 2

The station structure is in place, but far from finished. In Episode 4, we detail the entrance wings, add pedestrian walkways, install railway catenary, and polish every visible surface.