I think many travellers prefer to stay in one place and visit surrounding areas as day trip. I have received many inquiries about Osaka stay and visit surrounding areas, like Kyoto, Kobe, Nara as day trip. I understand that it’s quite easy to stay in one place and enjoy the trip with luggage free.
But many of you struggle to plan and choose the deals. In this post, I show you 5 days Osaka stay sample itinerary. You will learn how to choose the deals for your trip. Of course you can extend to stay, like 6 days, 7 days, as many as you want.
Day 1 / KIX (Kansai airport) to Osaka
Before you choose the deals, you have to make sure these things:
- Location to stay
- Plan after arrival your accommodation
There are several deals available.
- ICOCA and Haruka
- Kansai Area Pass
- Kansai Thru Pass
- Yokoso Osaka Ticket
- Kanku Chikatoku Ticket
- Namba Access Rapi:t Ticket
- Kanku Webtoku Ticket
Let’s see which deal is the best by location.
Shin-Osaka
ICOCA and Haruka is most recommended. It includes one way or round trip between any JR stations in Osaka and Kansai airport by limited express Haruka non reserved seat, and 1500 yen e-money in ICOCA. This e-money can be used for any trains in Kansai area.
Limited Express Haruka is most comfortable way to get Shin-Osaka. But if you are very sensitive with the cost, Kanku Chikatoku Ticket is the best. It is sold at 1000 yen only. Even though you have to transfer at Namba from Nankai Railway to Osaka Subway Midousuji line, the cost is cheaper than Haruka Discount Ticket at 1,300 yen.
If you arrive early and intend to visit somewhere in Osaka after arrival hotel, there are some options. If you choose ICOCA and Haruka, it gives you 1500 yen e-money to take any trains. Kanku Chikatoku Ticket gives you only airport access. But you can purchase Enjoy Eco Card (Osaka Subway and Bus unlimited travel pass) or Osaka Visitors Ticket. You know that subway fare for Shin-Osaka to Umeda is 240 yen and Shin-Osaka to Namba is 280 yen. Please see the link below to find more information about deals
And also Kansai Thru Pass is considerable too. This pass covers any “NON JR” trains. You can get almost anywhere in Kansai area. Especially if you intend to visit somewhere outside of Osaka after arrival, Kansai Thru Pass is a good choice. Be careful that Kansai Thru Pass does not cover Haruka by JR. This pass does not give you any direct access to Shin-Osaka. If you want to have comfortable way, ICOCA and Haruka is still the best choice.
At last, Yokoso Osaka Ticket gives you a great value. It includes Nankai railway’s limited express train “Rapi:t” from KIX to Namaba and unlimited ride of Osaka subway. This is one day subway pass portion of this deal can be used on next day.
Namba
Most affordable way is just taking Nankai Railway rapid train. You can take this train by base fare only which is 920 yen.
But Namba Access Rapi:t ticket is most recommended. But if you intend to drop by somewhere on the way back to the airport, such as Rinku town, Kanku Tokuwai Rapi:t Ticket is your choice. “Rapi:t” is Nankai Railway’s direct limited express train between KIX and Namba. It gives you most comfortable way to get Osaka beside JR’s limited express “Haruka”.
Namba Access Rapi:t Ticket
Kanku Webtoku Ticket
Namba Access Rapi:t Ticket is almost same price as Kanku Chikatoku Ticket. Even Kanku Webtoku Ticket is only 130 yen higher than Kanku Chikatoku Ticket. But Kanku Chikatoku Ticket does not include Rapi:t Express surcharge at 510 yen.
ICOCA and Haruka can be used for access to Namba. But you have to transfer at Tennoji from Haruka to local train to JR Namba. And JR Namba station is a bit away from the center of Namba area. If you want to have ICOCA, it’s not a bad choice. But please keep in in mind JR Namba station location and transfer at Tennoji.
Yokoso Osaka ticket and Kansai Thru Pass may be considerable too if you make some more trips after arrival in Namba. It is same reason as staying in Shin-Osaka. Please see the above.
JR Osaka / Umeda
There are several options to get Umeda/JR Osaka station area. JR Kansai Airport Rapid is only direct train service from KIX to Osaka. This is most recommended way.
You can use a single fare if you use this train. However you can use ICOCA and Haruka for this train if you want to have ICOCA. Because single fare is 1190 yen for taking this rapid train. If you purchase ICOCA card only, it is sold at 2000 yen (1500 yen preload e-money and 500 yen deposit). So total cost is 3190 yen (1190 + 2000). But ICOCA and Haruka one way ticket to Tennoji is sold at 3,100 yen. This deal can take you to any JR stations in downtown Osaka. It means that this deal covers Haruka only to Tennoji. It does not mean you can get only Tennoji. So you can use Tennoji version of ICOCA and Haruka to get Osaka.
Remember that ICOCA can be used for any trains. It includes even non JR trains, like subway. And also you can pay by ICOCA to shop in the convenience store. ICOCA does not give you any discount. But it is very convenient and gives you ticket free trip. In case that you use ICOCA and Haruka, you can take Haruka to Shin-Osaka or Tennoji and transfer to local train to get Osaka if you like.
If you are very sensitive a cost, Kanku Chikatoku Ticket is your choice. It is sold at 1000 yen. You have to transfer the train at Namba from Nankai Railway to Subway Midousuji line. But it is 190 yen cheaper than JR single fare.
And Yokoso Osaka ticket and Kansai Thru Pass may be considerable too if you make some more trips after arrival in Osaka/Umeda. It is same reason as staying in Shin-Osaka. Please see the above.
Other places near subway stations
Your first choice is Kanku Chikatoku Ticket. If you intend to make some trips after arrival, Kansai Thru Pass may be your choice.
Yokoso Osaka ticket and Kansai Thru Pass may be considerable too if you make some more trips after arrival in Namba. It is same reason as staying in Shin-Osaka. Please see the above.
Other places near JR stations
As long as you stay on Osaka Kanjo line, such as Tennoji, Kyobashi, Nishikujo, single fare is the best option. It is same thing as staying in Osaka/Umeda area. And many places can be accessed by Osaka subway. Kanku Chikatoku Ticket is your choice if you are very sensitive with the cost. Please see the map in the link below to find more information about location in Osaka.
Day 2 / Day trip to Kyoto
I put Kyoto on day 2 in this sample itinerary. But you can switch any trips. You can stay in Osaka, visit Kobe, Nara or other spots. This is just sample.
The key is how many times you will take a train. So you have to find where you go in Kyoto before you pick up the pass. First of all, please see the following post:
Kyoto can be accessed by three railways, JR (Osaka – Shin-Osaka – Kyoto), Hankyu Railway (Umeda – Kawaramachi/Arashiyama), and Keihan Railway (Yodoyabashi – Kyobashi – Kiyomizu-Gojo – Shijo – Sanjo). So make sure where you will stay in Osaka and where you go in Kyoto.
In Kyoto, there are four different areas, West (Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji temple), Central (Nijo castle), East (Higashiyama, Kiyomizudera, Yasaka shrine, Ginkaku-ji) and South (Fushimi Inari, Uji). In my opinion, it is not impossible to visit all four places in one day, but not realistic. I recommend you to spend 2 days or at least 1.5 days. If you complete West, Central and East, you can combine South area with Nara. Because Fushimi and Uji are located between Nara and Kyoto.
If you do this above one full day Kyoto and Kyoto+Nara in one day, the best choice fis Kansai Thru Pass. Only this pass cover round trip to Kyoto by both Hankyu and Keihan, and subway, bus and railway other than JR in Kyoto. I explain this trip at the following link:
If you don’t want rush and have easy slow trip, single fare and/or Kyoto all day bus pass may be better. For example, if you want to visit just Arashiyama, one way fare to Arashiyama from Umeda by Hankyu Railway is 400 yen. If you stay in other than Umeda, you will take subway or JR train to get Umeda. You will spend approximately 500 to 600 yen for round trip to Umeda. But Kansai Thru Pass 2 days pass is sold at 4000 yen. So you have to make 2000 yen worth in one day. Trip to only Arashiyama is not enough to use Kansai Thru Pass.
If you visit one more place beside Arashiyama, how about it? In Kyoto, All day bus pass (Kyoto bus unlimited train) is sold at 500 yen. If you stay in Umeda, total cost is 1300 yen. It is way cheaper Kansai Thru Pass. But All day bus pass does not cover any train services in Kyoto. If you want to take subway in Kyoto, you have to purchase Kyoto city sightseeing card at 1200 yen. But total cost is 2000 yen. It is same cost as Kansai Thru Pass. In this case, Kansai Thru Pass is better.
Even you intend to visit only Arashiyama, you may take subway for evening in Osaka for eat or shop. Remember that one way subway fare for Umeda-Namba is 240 yen. You will spend about 500 yen for this trip.
If you are very sensitive about the cost, you have to calculate very exactly. But if you have Kansai Thru Pass, it is very flexible.
By the way, you can get Kyoto by JR train. Especially Special Rapid train is the fastest train to get Kyoto from Osaka.
Single fare
Shin-Osaka or Osaka – Kyoto 560 yen
When you use JR trains, the problem is that most of popular sites are not located around JR Kyoto station. You have to take subway or bus. JR has Kansai Area Pass at 2060 yen. But single fare is way cheaper than this deal. So if you have ICOCA and enough fund in ICOCA, you can use JR train to get Kyoto and purchase All day bus pass or Kyoto city sightseeing card.
If you do half Nara and half Kyoto in one day by JR trains, total cost (Osaka-Nara-Kyoto-Osaka) is more than 2000 yen. In this case, you can use Kansai Area Pass instead of Kansai Thru Pass.
Day 3 / Day trip to Nara
As I mentioned above, you can make half Nara and half Kyoto in one day. But some of you want to visit Nara only. Let’s see it.
Nara can be accessed by JR and Kintetsu Railway (Osaka-Namba – Kintetsu-Nara). The post below shows you about trip to Nara by JR pass basically. But you can get some information about access to Nara:
Most of popular spots in Nara are located within walking distance from Nara station. So you will get a chance to use the pass to take the train to Nara only. You may not have many chances to use the pass after arrival in Nara.
Single fare for Kintetsu Railway
Osaka-Namba – Kintetsu-Nara 560 yen.
If you stay in other than Namba, you will spend 500 to 600 yen for round trip to Namba by subway. The total cost is very close to the worth of Kansai thru Pass. So if you make some more trips by subway in Osaka or other trains before/after trip to Nara, Kansai Thru Pass can be the choice. Otherwise single fare is cheaper.
On the other hand, Nara can be accessed by JR train too. Especially if you stay in Osaka/Umeda, you can take Yamatoji Rapid train to get Nara directly.
Single fare
Osaka – Nara 800 yen
Shin-Osaka – Nara 920 yen
Kansai Thru Pass does not cover any JR trains. JR has Kansai Area Pass at 2060 yen. But if you have round trip to Nara from even Shin-Osaka, single fare is still cheaper. And also Kansai Area Pass covers only JR trains. In my opinion, it is not very useful for exploring in Osaka before/after trip to Nara. I believe that Kansai Thru Pass is more useful.
Day 4 / Day trip to Kobe or Kobe and Himeji
Kobe is closer than Kyoto and Nara from Osaka. Let’s see the single fare.
Single fare for Hankyu or Hanshin Railway
Umeda – Sannomiya 320 yen
You will have some chances to take a bus in Kobe. If you use Kansai Thru Pass, Kobe city bus and subway are covered. But single bus fare is 210 yen. If you take a subway, you can get most of places by base fare ticket at 210 yen. So actually it is quite hard to get the worth to use Kansai Thru Pass. If you use ICOCA and Haruka, it is a good idea to use ICOCA e-money for this trip.
But if you intend to make some more trips in Osaka before/after trip to Kobe, Kansai Thru Pass may work. It is same situation as trip to Nara. And also one of famous Onsen, Arima Onsen is closed to Kobe. If you want to have something different, try to visit Kobe and Arima in one day. Kansai Thru Pass does work for this trip.
If you visit both Himeji and Kobe in one day, it is different story. Please see the posts in the link below:
Kansai Thru Pass work for Kobe and Himeji trip. However JR’s Special Rapid train is way faster than Hanshin/Sanyo railways that are covered by Kansai Thru Pass. Please see the following post:
If you want to have quick access to Himeji by JR Special Rapid, use Kansai Area Pass at 2,060 yen for one day. It is cheaper than single fare.
Day 5 / Sightseeing in Osaka
When you stay in Osaka, don’t think about using Kansai Thru Pass and Kansai Area Pass. You can get most of places by Osaka subway. Please see the map in the link below:
As you see, only USJ cannot be accessed by subway. But if you will visit USJ, you will spend one whole day there. So single fare is fine.
There are many deals available in Osaka, such as subway pass, Amazing Pass, Osaka Kaiyu Ticket. Please see the link below to find the detailed information:
Day 6 / Trip to Mt. Koya
Mt. Koya (Koya san) is very popular for the tourists from overseas. You can use Kansai Thru Pass for this day trip.
Single fare for Nankai Railway
Namba – Gokurakubashi – Koyasan 1260 yen
As you see, if you have round trip to Mt. Koya from Namba, total cost is 2520 yen. Kansai Thru Pass is way cheaper.
But if you will stay overnight in Mt. Koya, Koyasan-World Heritage Ticket may be better choice.
It is valid for 2 days. If you purchase it for Namba – Mt. Koya ticket, the ticket is 3,710 yen. This includes round trip fare to Koyasan from Namba, Nankai Rinkan bus and discount for some attractions and souvenir shop.
You can use Kansai Thru Pass for overnight trip to Koyasan too. The coverage is not much differnet. But Kansai Thru Pass can be used for other destinations, such as Kobe, Kyoto and Nara. If you want to use Kansai Thru Pass 3 days for these destinations, and need another deals to get Koyasan, Koyasan-World Heritage Ticket is your choice.
Day 7 / Back to KIX
Please refer the above at “Day 1”. You can use same deal as arrival day.
Some of you are thinking about drop by Rinku Town on the way to KIX. If you get off at Rinku Town, you cannot use any deal. Single fare is your choice.
For the trip to outside of Kansai area
Kinosaki onsen, Kurashiki, Okayama and even Hiroshima can be accessed as day trip. I recommend you the following deals if you will visit outside of Kansai area.
For the trip to Kinosaki onsen, Kurashiki and Okayama, Kansai Wide Area Pass is recommended:
For the trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima, Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass is recommended:
Comments
Hi Takeshi San,
I will be travelling to Osaka Kyoto then visit and exit in Tokyo
Day 1 and 2 explore Osaka planning to stay in Namba -use Amazing Osaka 2 day pass
Day 3 and 4 Sightseeing in Kyoto will stay in Kyoto- use 2 day pass
the rest days will spend in Tokyo
any suggestions please like from
1] KIX to Namba
2]How to transfer from Osaka to Kyoto
3]
Hi Lyn san,
1. Kanku Tokuwari Rapi:t Ticket is recommended.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html#Kanku_Tokuwari_Rapit_Ticket_Kanku-Webtoku_Ticket
2. There are Keihan railway, JR and Hankyu Railway running between Osaka and Kyoto. It depends on your location to stay in Kyoto. Please find more info at the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/how-to-transfer-among-kyoto-osaka-and-kobe-compare-japan-railway-and-private-lines.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi San,
I have finalized my IT just needing your assistance on what pass to buy.Also can I buy this at the KIX or online?Thanks
Day 1 – from KIX to Namba station visit downtown, Dotonbori etc. then Go around Osaka area visit castle,umeda etc.willstay in Hostel Nishinari-Osaka
Day 2|- USJ halfday and go back to Osaka travel around go shopping/market then proceed to stay Hostel Minami Ward,Kyoto
Day 3- Kyoto sightseeing plus Nara~~ will stay in Kyoto
Day 4-Kyoto sightseeing~~will stay in Kyoto
Day 5-back to KIX
Thank you for taking time to assist each nd everyone of us.
Hi Jane san,
You can use ICOCA and Haruka for day 1 and 5.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/icoca-and-haruka-ticket-very-flexible-and-good-deal-for-tourist-who-stay-in-kansai.html
You can use ICOCA e-money for day 2 and 3. You may need some fund on day 3. It depends on how much you spend on day 2. You can take any trains by ICOCA.
Kyoto city deals for day 4.
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
hi Takeshi San,
Thanks for your prompt response..I wonder about ,Yosoko Osaka Pass[ Kix to Namba + unli ride in Osaka] since we will move a lot from Namba to Osaka is that part of it’s coverage?
sorry we’re on a tight budget. I appreciate your help.
hi Takeshi San,
How about Amazing Osaka? We would like to visit attractions in Osaka as much as we can. Thanks a lot. I will greatly welcome your suggestions.
all the best,
Jane
Hi Jane,
The reason why I recommend ICOCA and Haruka is return trip to KIX from Kyoto. There is no deals to get back to KIX. Yokoso Osaka is a great deal. But if you use this, you cannot get any good deal from Kyoto to KIX. That will be a huge loss.
Amazing pass is a good deal if you intend to visit 3 or more attractions on the list of this pass.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Arigato! Takeshi , We’ll be there in Japan next month. By the way is there any possible places to visit around just USJ in case we decided not to spend all our day inside the theme park?
Hi Jane,
It’s too hard to pick up the places because it’s too many.
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2157.html
But I think you may spend one whole day at USJ. This theme park is huge.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks for offering this free advice to confused tourists like me. in September, I will be leaving Kyoto to arrive in Osaka on the 24th. My itinerary is pretty blank for now:
24th-27th (Osaka)
27th-29th (Akashi)
I will be travelling from Kyoto to Osaka (Tenjinbashisuji) (24th)to Akashi and then back to Kyoto (29th/30th). I want to do a lot of sightseeing in Osaka and the Kobe area. Please help me with the cheapest transport options for sightseeing and for travelling from one city to another. I heard about the Osaka amazing pass, what good will it do for me.
Thanks.
Hi Peniel,
Kansai thru pass is most convenient pass. And Amazing pass is a good choice for sightseeing in Osaka.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
http://www.osaka-info.jp/osp/en/index.html
And these links may help you to build your plan and choose your deal.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-to-take-trains-in-kobe-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
If you can make the detailed plan, we can choose the deal that is exactly suitable for your trip. But at this point, your itinerary is blank and hard to find the best one.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi, im planning go to japan this december for newyear eve (23-3 dec)
There are several place on my list, tokyo, kyoto, nara, kobe, hiroshima, himeji, osaka. Arrive at haneda, and leaving from kansai airport.
May i have your itinerary suggestions? Should i book JR 7 days pass?
Thanks
Hi Hong,
How about this sample?
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/sample-itinerary-tokyo-to-osaka-in-just-7-days-by-japan-rail-pass-7-days.html
It’s 7 days but you can extend at some cities.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
It’s our first time to visit Japan – @ Kansai International Airport Osaka as our point of entry. We will be staying from August 11 to 18, 2015. We will be staying in an apartment near Daikokucho Station.
We would highly appreciate if you could guide us which passes/tickets are we going to buy so we can save more.
Our itinerary are as follows:-
Day-1: Kansai airport to Apartment @ Daikokucho Station
– Our Estimated Time of Arrival: 7:55pm
Day-2: Sightseeing in Osaka (From Daikokucho Station)
– Osaka Castle
– Umeda Sky Building
– Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)
Day-3: Universal Studios Japan (From Daikokucho Station)
Day-4: Trip to Kobe and Himeji (From Daikokucho Station)
– Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden
Day-5: Trip to Nara (Todai-ji temple) (From Daikokucho Station)
– Daibutsuden Hall
– Todaiji Museum
Day-6: Sightseeing in Kyoto (From Daikokucho Station)
– Nijo castle (Nijojo)
– Arashiyama Area: Tenryu-ji temple & Bamboo Grove
– Kinkaku-ji temple (Golden Pavillion)
Day-7: Sightseeing in Kyoto (From Daikokucho Station)
– Ginkaku-ji temple (Silver Pavilion)
– Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)
– Kiyomizudera Temple (Pure Water Temple)
– Kodaiji Temple,Kodaiji Sho Museum,Entokuin Temple
– Maruyama Park
– Chionin Temple
– Hojo and Yuzen Gardens
Day-8: Daikokucho Station to Kansai Airport
Looking forward your BEST OPTION.
Many thanks in advance,
Larry
Hi Larry,
I recommend you to use the following:
Kanku Chikatoku for both arrival day and departure day.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
Kansai Thru Pass for day 5 to 7
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
Kansai Area Pass for day 4
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-use-jr-west-kansai-area-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
Osaka kaiyu ticket for day 2
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-use-jr-west-kansai-area-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
Single ticket is okay for the rest of your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thank you so much for your immediate reply. We do appreciated very much your kind assistance.
Cheers!
Larry
Enjoy your trip, Larry.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Which pass is more suitable for this trip as per my itinerary below:
Day 1 – Arrive KIX at night
Day 2 – Osaka – Kanazawa
Day 3 – Kanazawa – Shirakawago – Takayama
Day 4 – Takayama – Nara
Day 5 – Nara – Kyoto – Osaka
Day 6 – Osaka – USJ or Kobe
Day 7- Osaka
Day 8 – Osaka
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Nex
Hi Nex,
I recommend you to use Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass for day 1 to 5. But this pass does not cover Takayama-Nagoya-Kyoto route. You have to go back by same route as day 3 and 2. Please see the link below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/takayama-hokuriku-area-pass-perfect-deal-to-get-takayama-kanazawa-toyama-shirakawago-from-nagoya-or-osaka.html
Nara is not covered by this pass. So you have to add single fare for Nara-Kyoto return. Kyoto-Osaka is covered.
The rest of 3 days in your plan, it depends on your plan. Single ticket is okay for USJ. If you go to Kobe, check the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kobe-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
When you go back to KIX, you can use some deals:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
My husband and I will be going to Japan on 25/10/15 arriving at Haneda airport at 9:45 pm. We have booked 6 days land tour starting from Tokyo and end in Osaka in the morning of 30/10/15 . The tour company will let us know the name of Tokyo’s hotel we are staying 1 week before our departure to Japan. We also extended our stay for another 6 days from 30/10/2015 to 4/11/15, leaving Kansai Airport at 11 am.
I have tentatively book 4 nights Hotel Corona Osaka near Shin
Osaka station where we can spent more time to explore Osaka, Kyoto ,Kobe ,Hemeji , Nara and Hiroshima.
Below is the 6 days land tour itinerary from private company
Day 1 Arrive Tokyo
Day 2 Tokyo
Day 3 Tokyo to Hakone
Day 4 Hakone to Nagoya
Day 5 Kyoto to Osaka
Day 6 Depart Osaka
From here I extend another 6 days stay on our own
Can you suggest any other 6 days itinerary, places that the above tour doesn’t cover .
Can you tell me what ticket pass to buy on my arrival to Tokyo , 6 days extended tour and departing to Kansai Airport. I have tentatively booked a hotel 8 km from Kansai Airport for my early departure flight. This is our first trip to Japan and felt very confused as there are many different Japan passes. Is it worth buying JR PASS?
Your assistance
Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Warmest regards,
Kim
Hi Kim,
You have asked before at the post below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/kansai-hiroshima-area-pass-perfect-deal-for-the-traveller-who-wants-travel-both-kansai-and-hiroshima.html
And you have a plan to visit Hiroshima by using Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass.
Did you change your plan? Kyoto is included in your land tour. But there are many places. You might visit one more time by yourself. Hiroshima, Kobe, Himeji and Nara are good to place to visit after land tours.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks for your prompt reply and information. We will visit Hiroshima first and use the pass. Is it better to use ICOCA or Kanku Chikatoku Ticket for single fare to Kansai Airport or by taxi which is 8 km to the airport from my hotel.
You stated that Hiroshima 5 days pass doesn’t cover subway in Osaka. Railway show Sanyo Shinkansen, conventional line and JR West Miyajima Ferry.
Using Hiroshima pass does it cover bullet train from Shin Osaka and conventional line?
Thank you for your assistance.
Best regards,
Kim
Hi Kim,
It covers Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima. And conventional lines are covered too. So you can get Miyajimaguchi by local train from Hiroshima and take Miyajima ferry by this pass.
Single fare or taxi is okay to get KIX. Your hotel may have a shuttle service to the airport. I recommend you to check your hotel website otherwise contact to your hotel.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks very much for your reply and assistance. which is greatly appreciated.
Have a good night
Kim
No problem, Kim.
Enjoy your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
You mentioned that Hiroshima Kansai 5 days pass does not cover subways. I need to use subways from Namba to get to Daiwa Roynet hotel Osaka – Uehonmachi and vice versa during my 3 days 2 nights stay there. Can you please suggest the best economical pass I should buy if I had Hiroshima Kansai pass? Thank you
Will travel to Kobe, Nara Hemeji and maybe Kyoto.
Best regards,
Kim
Hi Kim,
Just adding single fare for Tsuruhashi – Uehonmachi is the best way. It’s only 150 yen for one way.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takashi,
Sorry to trouble you again.
Does JR train go to Izumisano station from Tennoji?
Does the bullet train from Hiroshima stop at Tennoji apart from Shin Osaka station ?. The hotel I stay is only one stop from Tennoji station .
Thank you for your assistance.
Warmest regards,
Kim
Hi Kim,
Only Nankai Railway train goes to Izumisano, JR doesn’t.
Shin-Osaka is only Shinkansen station in Osaka.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Is there another way to make use of my Hiroshima and Kansai pass (last day of pass) to get to my hotel in Izuminasino from Tenojji station? I would like to go to Rinku for last minute shopping too after check into hotel.
Is it cheaper to take JR train to Kansai airport and from there to my hotel?
Your recommendation will be greatly appreciated.Thank you
Kim
Hi Kim,
The nearest JR station to Nankai Izumi-Sano station is Rinku town. So you can take JR train to Rinku town from Tennoji and transfer to Nankai Railway train. This is only way to use Kansai Hiroshima pass. the fare is 270 yen for Rinku town to Izumi-Sano.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Kim Dear Takeshi,
I have cancelled my 6 days private land tour from Tokyo to Osaka and plan to travel on our own using the same itinerary. The extended 6 days from Osaka remains the same. My flight arrived at Haneda International airport at 9:45 pm on 25/10/2015. Is it better for me to stay overnight at Royal Park Hotel near airport or can I still catch a Late night train to Tokyo /Shanagawa’s hotel ( haven’t book any hotel for the first 6 days)
You have suggested I buy 5 days Kansai Hiroshima pass for my extended 6 days stay from Osaka. Is 7 days JR pass more economical than Hiroshima Kansai pass if I intend to travel on our own from Tokyo to Hiroshima. Can you please recommend what pass to buy from the time of arrival until I reach Hiroshima.
Is it worth while travelling to Hakone/Mt .Fuji in Autumn (stay I night) or to Takoyama ? I have thought of doing a day trip to Hakone/Mt. Fiji from Tokyo.
Below is my 12 days itinerary:
25 /10/2015 Arrive at Haneda Airport
26/10 to 27/10/2015 Tokyo sightseeing
28 /10/2015 Hakone/Mt Fiji (overnight stay) or Yakohama ?
30/10/2015 Kyoto/Osaka/Hiroshima
30/10 to 1/11/2015 Hiroshima 2 nights stay
1/11 to 3/11/ 2015 Stay in Osaka then day trip to Nara, Himeji, Kyoto or Kobe
4/11/2015 Kansai airport
Your recommendation regarding passes to buy will be greatly appreciated.
Best Regards,
Kim
Hi Kim,
7 days JR pass is better choice. So now we have to discuss when you activate 7 days JR pass.
It depends on trip to Fuji/Hakone. Do you want to see Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi area?
https://jprail.com/destinations/chubu-area/fuji-hakone-access-guide-by-train-and-bus-from-both-tokyo-and-osaka-kyoto-nagoya.html
If so, day trip is not recommended. It’s not impossible but too tight. You will miss many places to see in Hakone. If you just want to see Mt. Fuji, you can see it from Hakone as long as weather is okay.
If you want to visit only Hakone, you can use JR pass to get Odawara and use Hakone Free Pass from Odawara.
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/hakone/
If you want to visit both and stay overnight at either Hakone or Lake Kawaguchi, JR pass is not recommended. Fuji Hakone Pass is the best choice.
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/fujihakone/
This includes round trip between Fuji/Hakone and Shinjuku. JR pass is useless in this case. You can start to use JR pass when you leave Tokyo. JR Pass will cover other trips in Kansai area, like trip to Himeji or Kyoto or Nara after you finish trip to Hiroshima by JR pass.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Your above information was very helpful . Can you also please advice whether buying IC pass is economical then single fare during our 2 days sightseeing in Tokyo.? Can I activate JR pass from 28/10/2015. Plan to book hotel in Shinjuku.
Is there a direct bullet train from Hakone to Shin Osaka or is it quicker to travel there from Tokyo after Hakone trip?
Thank you very much for your assistance.
Best Regards,
Kim
Hi Kim,
I don’t see whole part of your itinerary. Would you tell me your detailed itinerary?
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi,
We will be going to Japan for 11 days arriving at Haneda Airport and leaving Kansai Airport. on last day. Can you recommend what passes to use. I am confused with so many passes in Japan. Below is my Itinerary
25/10/15 Arrived Haneda Airport at 9:45 pm. Will take shuttle bus /train
25 to 30/10/15 Hotel in Shinjuku
26 to 27/10/15 Tour Tokyo
visit Imperial double bridge, Ginza, Tokyo skytree , Meiji Jingu Outer Court, Omotesando, Shinjuku Kobukicho, Metropolitan, Integrated Electrical Galleria, Asakusa Kannon Temple , Nakamese shopping centre. What pass to use or single fare?
28/10/15 Day trip to Hakone/Mt Fiji
29/10/15 day trip to Nikko
30/10/15 Tokyo to Hiroshima
30/10 – 1/11/2015 2 nights in Hiroshima
1/11 – 2/11/15 Hotel in Osaka Make day trip to Kyoto, Nara, Himeji/Kobe
3/11/15 Hotel in IZUMISANO
4/11 Depart Kansai Airport. 11 am
From 28/10 to 3/11/15 shall I activate JR pass or use Hiroshima Kansai 5 days pass from 30/10 /15. Is single trip from Tokyo to Hiroshima more economical.
Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Best Regards, Kim
Hi Kim,
You can use JR Pass 7 days from Oct 28 to Nov 3.
You don’t need JR pass before you start day trip to Hakone. Subway pass is okay for Tokyo. Limousine subway deal is recommended.
https://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/information/visitor_tickets/subwaypass/
See the links below about using JR pass to get Hakone and Nikko.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/how-to-get-hakone-from-tokyo-compare-japan-railway-and-odakyu-lines.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/how-to-access-to-nikko-from-tokyo-there-are-three-ways-from-tokyo-shinjuku-and-asakusa.html
You may need to add some passes in Osaka and Kyoto because JR pass does not cover subway and local bus.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kobe-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/how-to-access-to-himeji-and-kobe-from-osaka.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks very much for your prompt reply and helpful information. Looking forward to Japan.
Have a good night.
Best Regards,
Kim
Enjoy your trip, Kim.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
This site is really helpful.
We have a tour this coming Aug 8-15. We are now in the final stage in our itinerary but still were still undecided on what ticket we will buy. Can you please help us, we really confused because there are many tickets we can buy as an option. But for your recommendation what is the best one (so we can save more) .
We will be staying in one place only near SHINOSAKA Station
Day 0 – Night Arrival at KIX (travel to SHINOSAKA)
Day 1- Kyoto (CENTRAL – NORTHERN – EAST) – SHINOSAKA
Day 2- Kyoto (WESTERN – SOUTHERN) – SHINOSAKA
Day 3- USJ
Day 4- Himeji – Kobe – SHINOSAKA
Day 5- Nara – Osaka (Dotonbori) – SHINOSAKA
Day 6- Soribashi- OSAKA- Tenjinbashisuji – Umeda -SHINOSAKA
Day 7 – we still undecided what to do this day, we still have time to do anything because we have an evening flight (8pm)
First thing we just base on the google map to build this itinerary to now what places are near to each other. In planning to buy tickets (for transpo) we have a confusion on what we will buy as the best option for us.
For now we think this:
ICOCA & HARUKA (roundtrip) so we have a easy access from/to airport and also we can use this one to all train/subway stations?
for the 1/2 unli bus pass in kyoto where still undecided if this one is the best option we will use.
Thanks in advance!
Best Regards,
Annir
Hi Annir,
As you think, ICOCA and Haruka is your first choice for both arrival and departure days. It includes ICOCA e-money 1500 yen. I recommend you to use this for day 3, 6 and maybe 7.
For day 1, 2 and 5, I recommend Kansai thru pass.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
This pass does not cover JR trains. So you cannot get a direct train to get Kyoto from Shin-Osaka. But most of sites in Kyoto are away from JR Kyoto station. You need to take a bus or subway to get these places.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
If you use Kansai thru pass, you need to go back to Umeda (JR Osaka station) by subway Midousuji line. Both Hankyu and subway are covered by Kansai thru pass. If you take Hankyu, you can get Arashiyama and Gion easily. And also this pass covers subway and bus in Kyoto.
For day 5, it’s similar story. This pass covers subway in Osaka. You can get anywhere in Osaka after the trip to Nara. Nara can be accessed by Kintetsu.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/subway/how-to-access-to-nara-by-japan-rail-pass-if-you-dont-use-jr-pass-kintetsu-railway-is-more-convenient.html
For day 4, JR Kansai Area Pass 1 day is most recommended.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/subway/how-to-access-to-nara-by-japan-rail-pass-if-you-dont-use-jr-pass-kintetsu-railway-is-more-convenient.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi, this is my first time in Japan with my hubby from 19-26Dec. Appreciate your advice which pass for my itinerary below :
Day 1 (Sat 19/12/15 )- arrived KIX airport 22:25pm to Hotel New Hankyu Osaka (Limousine bus)
Day 2 (20/12/15) – Osaka
Day 3 (21/12/15) – Osaka -> Kyoto (Kyoto Sightseeing Pass) (stay 1N)
Day 4 (22/12/15) – Kyoto -> Nara (day trip) -> Osaka
Day 5 (23/12/15) – Osaka -> Kobe -> Himeji -> Osaka
Day 6 (24/12/15) – Universal Studio Japan
Day 7 (25/12/15) – Osaka (Osaka amazing pass)
Day 8 (26/12/15) – Osaka (Osaka amazing pass) -> KIX airport ( 11:35pm flight) -limousine bus
For day 3,4,5,6 can I use JR Kansai Area Pass?I’m kinda confused with the different passes.
Thanks in advance.
Elizia
Hi Elizia,
You may use Kansai Area pass for day 3 and 4 only. Single ticket is cheaper for Osaka-Kyoto and trip to USJ.
And subway pass may be added for day 2 if you go around Osaka.
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/Card.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi, I change my itinerary because I don’t miss the nice place in Shirakawago.
Day 1 (Sat 19/12/15 )- arrived KIX airport 22:25pm to Hotel New Hankyu Osaka
Day 2 (20/12/15) – Osaka (take JR Yamatoji Rapid Service)-> Nara (stay 1N)
Day 3 (21/12/15) – Nara -> Fushimi Shrine (Inari station) (take JR Nara Line local)-> Kyoto (Kyoto Sightseeing Pass) (stay 1N)
Day 4 (22/12/15) – Kyoto (take Shinkansen Hikari stop Nagoya then take Ltd. Exp wide view hida) -> Takayama (stay 1N)
Day 5 (23/12/15) – Takayama (take Nohi bus)-> Shirakawago (Nohi bus) -> Kanazawa (take Ltd. exp thunderbird) -> Osaka
Day 6 (24/12/15) – USJ
Day 7 (25/12/15) – Osaka (Osaka amazing pass)
Day 8 (26/12/15) – Osaka (Osaka amazing pass) -> KIX airport ( 11:35pm flight)
Please advice if I’m wrong in taking the wrong train. Day 5 will it be too rush? Can I use Takayama Hokuriku Tourist Pass? Appreciate if u can advise the passes.
Thanks in advance.
Elizia
Hi Elizia,
If you want to use Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass, you cannot take Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya. You can take Kanazawa route only. Please find the detail condition at the link below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/takayama-hokuriku-area-pass-perfect-deal-to-get-takayama-kanazawa-toyama-shirakawago-from-nagoya-or-osaka.html
So you have to take same route on day 4 and 5. Or technically you can take Takayama-Toyama-Kanazawa-Osaka/Kyoto by only train route. If you want to drop by Nagoya, you have to go back to Takayama. Kanazawa and Osaka. It’s a big detour route. Otherwise you have to add single fare for Shinkansen for Kyoto-Nagoya. Nagoya to Takayma is covered by Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi, i’ll go with my wife to Japan and we don’t know if it’s better for us to buy JR pass 7 or 14 days.
We will arrive to Osaka on August 7th (at night) and we are planning to do the following itinerary:
07-Aug Osaka (Night)
08-Aug Koyasan or Kyoto
09-Aug Koyasan or Kyoto
10-Aug Kyoto
11-Aug Kyoto
12-Aug Osaka
13-Aug Kyoto or Koyasan
14-Aug Kyoto or Koyasan
15-Aug Hiroshima-Miyajima
16-Aug Kyoto-Nara
17-Aug Kanazawa
18-Aug ??
19-Aug Tokio-Nikko
20-Aug Tokio
21-Aug Tokio-Kamakura
22-Aug Tokio
23-Aug Tokio
24-Aug Tokio (very early)
what do you suggest? Jr pass for 7 or 14 days? What about our itinerary?
Rgds,
Fernando.
Hi Fernando,
I have already replied to your comment at the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/how-to-transfer-among-kyoto-osaka-and-kobe-compare-japan-railway-and-private-lines.html,
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail