Osaka to Kyoto: The Best Transport Options

Need to get from Osaka to Kyoto? The good news is you have several train options that make this journey a snap.

From super-fast trains to budget-friendly routes, there’s a perfect choice for every traveler.

Ready to find out which one suits you best? Let’s break down these 4 convenient ways to reach your destination. 😊

1. Shinkansen (High Speed Train)

a. Why Take the Shinkansen

• Speed: The Shinkansen takes only about 15 minutes to travel from Osaka to Kyoto, making it the fastest option.
• Comfort: The trains are clean, spacious, and equipped with comfortable seating.
• Convenience: Frequent departures mean you can catch a train every 10-15 minutes.
• Efficiency: It’s a great way to maximize your time, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Read More: 10 New Shinkansen Changes Visitors Should Know

b. Where to Board the Shinkansen in Osaka

• Shin-Osaka Station: This is the main Shinkansen station in Osaka. It’s separate from Osaka Station, so make sure you’re heading to the right place.
• Accessing Shin-Osaka Station: You can reach Shin-Osaka Station via the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line (about 6 minutes from Umeda/Osaka Station or 15 minutes from Namba).
• Ticket Gates: Look for signs pointing to the Shinkansen gates. They’re usually marked in English.
• Platforms: Platforms for Kyoto-bound trains are clearly labeled. Double-check the electronic boards for your train’s platform number.
• Luggage Storage: Store large bags in the overhead racks or designated areas at the end of each car.

c. Buying Tickets

• Ticket Options: You can buy a regular ticket or use a Japan Rail Pass if you have one. The JR Pass covers Hikari and Kodama Shinkansen travel between Osaka and Kyoto.
• Where to Buy: Tickets are available at ticket counters, vending machines, or online. Machines have English language options.
• Cost: A one-way ticket costs ¥1,450 for non-reserved seats. Reserved seats cost slightly more, but they’re not necessary for this short trip.
• Seat types: Non-reserved seats are budget-friendly and can be found in different cars depending on the train type:
  • Nozomi: Cars 1-2
  • Hikari: Cars 1-5
  • Kodama: Cars 1-6 and 13-16
• IC Cards: You can’t use IC cards like Suica or ICOCA for Shinkansen tickets, so make sure to buy a proper ticket.

d. Boarding the Shinkansen

• Train Types: The Nozomi and Hikari trains both run between Osaka and Kyoto. Nozomi is faster, but Hikari is covered by the JR Pass.
• Frequency: Trains depart every 10-15 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
• Boarding Process: Arrive at the platform a few minutes early. Lines on the platform indicate where the train doors will open.
• Seating: With a reserved seat, check your ticket for car and seat numbers. For non-reserved seats, choose any available spot in the designated cars.

e. Arriving in Kyoto

• Kyoto Station: This is where you’ll arrive. It’s a large, modern station with plenty of amenities.
• Exiting the Station: Follow signs to the central exit for access to taxis, buses, and the subway.
• Getting Around Kyoto: Kyoto has an excellent bus system and two subway lines.

f. Osaka to Kyoto Station Guide by Shinkansen

i. Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station by Shinkansen

1. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi or Hikari) from Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station.
2. The journey takes around 15 minutes.
3. Tickets cost ¥1,450 for an unreserved seat.

ii. Namba Station to Kyoto Station by Shinkansen

1. Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line from Namba Station to Shin-Osaka Station.
2. Transfer to the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi or Hikari) bound for Kyoto Station.
3. The trip takes approximately 33 minutes and costs ¥1,740.

2. JR Kyoto Line (Tokaido-Sanyo Main Line)

a. Why Choose the JR Kyoto Line

• Direct Access: Connects central Osaka (Osaka Station) to Kyoto Station without transfers.
• Train type: Look for the “Special Rapid Service” trains, as they are the fastest.
• Journey time: The trip takes about 29 minutes.
• Stops: The train stops only at Osaka, Shin-Osaka, Takatsuki, and Kyoto.
• Affordability: A one-way ticket costs ¥580, making it a budget-friendly choice.
• Frequency: Trains depart every few minutes, so you won’t wait long.

b. Where to Board the JR Kyoto Line in Osaka

• Osaka Station: Located in the Umeda district, it’s a central hub with easy access.
• Shin-Osaka Station: Ideal if you’re connecting from the Shinkansen or the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line.
• Platforms at Osaka Station: The JR Kyoto Line trains usually depart from Platforms 8 to 10. Check the electronic boards for the exact platform.
• Platforms at Shin-Osaka Station: If departing from Shin-Osaka, head to platforms 5 or 6 for the JR Kyoto Line. Clear English signage will guide you.

c. Buying Tickets

• Ticket Machines: Available at all JR stations; they have English language options.
• IC Cards: Prepaid cards like ICOCA and Suica can be used for a seamless experience.
• JR Pass: If you have this pass, the journey is covered without additional fees.

d. Arriving in Kyoto

• Kyoto Station: A major transportation hub with connections to buses, subways, and taxis.
• Exiting: Follow signs to the Central Exit for easy access to city transport.
• Amenities: The station houses shops, restaurants, and tourist information centers.
• Connectivity: From here, you can reach popular attractions like Gion, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Read More: Top 17 Things to Do in Kyoto

e. Osaka to Kyoto Station Guide by JR Kyoto Line

i. Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station by JR Kyoto Line

1. From Shin-Osaka Station, board the JR Kyoto Line’s Special Rapid Service heading towards Kyoto Station.
2. The journey takes approximately 24 minutes and costs ¥580.

ii. Osaka Station to Kyoto Station by JR Kyoto Line

1. At Osaka Station, board the JR Kyoto Line’s Special Rapid Service heading towards Kyoto.
2. The train will make limited stops, including Shin-Osaka, Takatsuki, and Kyoto.
3. Remain on the train until you arrive at Kyoto Station.
4. The journey takes approximately 29 minutes and costs ¥580.

iii. Namba Station to Kyoto Station by JR Kyoto Line

1. From Namba Station, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Umeda Station.
2. Walk to Osaka Station.
3. Transfer to the JR Special Rapid Service on the JR Kyoto Line bound for Kyoto Station.
4. The trip takes approximately 42 minutes and costs ¥820.

3. Hankyu Kyoto Main Line

a. Why Choose the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line

• Direct Route: The Limited Express trains take you from Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station in about 53 minutes.
• Train Types: There are local, semi-express, and express trains. Express trains skip smaller stations and are the fastest option.
• Cost-Effective: A one-way ticket costs just ¥410, making it a budget-friendly option.
• Frequent Departures: Trains run regularly throughout the day, so you don’t need to worry about long waits.
• Access to Central Kyoto: Arriving at Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station places you right in the heart of Kyoto, close to major attractions and shopping districts.

b. Where to Board the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line in Osaka

• Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station: This is the main departure point for the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line. The station is centrally located and easily accessible.
• Navigating the Station: Look for signs directing you to the Hankyu Railway platforms; they’re usually marked in English.

c. Buying Tickets

• Ticket Machines: Look for the ticket vending machines at Hankyu stations. They have English instructions, so it’s easy to use.
• IC Cards: If you have an IC card like ICOCA or Suica, you can simply tap in and out at the gates. This saves time and hassle.
• JR Pass: The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) does not cover the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line, as it’s operated by a private company.

d. Arriving in Kyoto

• Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station: This is the final stop on the line, which is close to popular areas like Gion and Pontocho.
• Karasuma Station: One stop before Kyoto-Kawaramachi, Karasuma Station is another convenient arrival point. The area around Karasuma Station offers a variety of hotels, making it a great place to stay.
• Nearby Attractions: Close to Nishiki Market and the Gion district, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine.
• Dining and Shopping: Numerous restaurants and shops are within walking distance, providing plenty of options for dining and entertainment.

Read More: Only 2 Best Places to Stay in Kyoto

e. Osaka to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station/ Karasuma Station Guide by Hankyu Kyoto Main Line

i. Osaka Station to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station/ Karasuma Station by Hankyu Kyoto Main Line

1. Walk from Osaka Station to Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station.
2. Take the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line Limited Express train bound for Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station.
3. Get off at either Karasuma Station or Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station.
4. The trip takes about 41–43 minutes and costs ¥410.

ii. Namba Station to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station/ Karasuma Station by Hankyu Kyoto Main Line

1. From Namba Station, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Umeda Station.
2. At Umeda Station, follow signs to the Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station.
3. Board the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line Limited Express train bound for Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station.
4. The journey to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station takes about 43 minutes and costs ¥410. The entire trip from Namba to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station takes about 55 minutes in total and costs ¥650.
5. If you’re heading to Karasuma Station, it’s one stop before Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the same line.

Read More: Kyoto Itinerary: Your Best 3 Days Travel Guide

4. The Keihan Main Line

a. Why Choose the Keihan Main Line

• Direct Route: Rapid Limited Express or Limited Express trains take you from central Osaka (Yodoyabashi Station) to central Kyoto (Sanjo Station) without transfers.
• Train Types: Look for “Rapid Limited Express” and “Limited Express” trains as they stop only at major stations, making your trip faster and more efficient.
• Affordability: A one-way trip costs only ¥430, making it an affordable option.
• Frequent Service: Trains depart regularly, so you won’t have to wait long for the next one.
• Direct Access to Central Kyoto: Ends at Sanjo Station, near the Gion district and Pontocho dining area.
• Sightseeing Opportunities: The line stops near major attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Gion, so you can explore these spots easily.

Read More: 11 Places I Regret Not Visiting in Kyoto

b. Where to Board the Keihan Main Line in Osaka

• Yodoyabashi Station: This is the starting point of the Keihan Main Line in Osaka.
• Accessing Yodoyabashi: You can reach Yodoyabashi Station via the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line.
• Ticket Gates: Once at Yodoyabashi Station, follow signs for the Keihan Line. Ticket gates are clearly marked and often have English instructions.

c. Buying Tickets

• Ticket Machines: Available at all Keihan stations, with English language options for easy navigation.
• IC Cards: Prepaid cards like ICOCA or Suica can be used for convenient tap-and-go access.
• JR Pass: The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is not valid on the Keihan Main Line, as it’s operated by a private company.

d. Arriving in Kyoto

• Sanjo Station: This is the main arrival point in Kyoto when using the Keihan Main Line. It’s centrally located and close to popular areas like Gion and Kawaramachi.
• Nearby Attractions: From Sanjo Station, you’re just a short walk away from attractions like Pontocho Alley, Nishiki Market, and the Kamogawa River.
• Getting Around Kyoto: Kyoto has an extensive bus network and two subway lines (Karasuma and Tozai).

e. Osaka to Sanjo Station (Kyoto) Guide by Keihan Main Line

i. Osaka Station to Sanjo Station by Keihan Main Line

1. From Osaka Station, walk to Umeda Station and take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Yodoyabashi Station.
2. At Yodoyabashi Station, board the Keihan Main Line (Rapid Limited Express/ Limited Express) train bound for Sanjo Station.
3. The total journey takes about 55 minutes and costs ¥620.

ii. Namba Station to Sanjo Station by Keihan Main Line

1. From Namba Station, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line bound for Yodoyabashi Station.
2. At Yodoyabashi Station, transfer to the Keihan Main Line.
3. Board a Rapid Limited Express or Limited Express train heading towards Demachiyanagi Station.
4. Alight at Sanjo Station.
5. The entire journey takes about 55 minutes and costs ¥620.

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