Kansai Thru Pass is one of the best pass if you travel in Kansai area. This pass offers the unlimited travel of most non JR trains, the subway lines and most local bus services. It covers most part of this region, such as Kyoto, Kobe, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama, Koyasan and Himeji.
In this post, I would like to explain this pass and you will find how to use this pass.
- Kansai airport to Osaka (Namba and other area in downtown)
- Kansai airport to Kyoto
- Kansai airport to Kobe
- Kansai airport to Nara
- Day trip to Kyoto from Osaka
- Day trip to Kyoto from Kobe
- Day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto
- Day trip to Kobe from Osaka or Kyoto
- Day trip to Himeji from Osaka, Kobe or Kyoto
- Day or overnight trip to Mt. Koya
Who is eligible
The overseas tourist with short stay status and Japanese who lives abroad as a permanent resident can purchase it. And also a person with overseas tourist as a guide can purchase this pass.
Types and prices
2-day pass and 3-day pass are available. If you purchase it online, the price is slightly cheaper.
Purchasing online
| TYPES | Adult | Child (6-12yrs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Day | 4,380 yen | 2,190 yen |
| 3-Day | 5,400 yen | 2,700 yen |
Purchasing in Japan
| TYPES | Adult | Child (6-12yrs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Day | 4,480 yen | 2,240 yen |
| 3-Day | 5,600 yen | 2,800 yen |
You can use this pass on unconsecutive days on the sales period.
e.g.
Day 1 – Day trip to Kyoto from Osaka (Kansai Thru Pass the first day of 3-day)
Day 2 – Visit USJ (not use Kansai Thru Pass)
Day 3 – Day trip to Koyasan from Osaka (Kansai Thru Pass the second day of 3-day)
Day 4 – Stay in Osaka (not use Kansai Thru Pass)
Day 5 – Day trip to Kobe and Himeji (Kansai Thru Pass the third day of 3-day)
The sales period is usually year by year, April to March in next year. Actually you can pick any three days (two days for two days pass) in this sales period. The validity of a rail pass starts from 12 O’clock at night.
Under 6 years is free of charge. You are not required to buy the pass for the child who is 0 to 5 years old.
How to purchase
If you want to buy it in advance online, you can refer the official site of Kansai Thru Pass:
Kansai Thru Pass official site – Internet Purchase
You also can purchase it at Klook. Klook is one of the biggest ticket seller. You can buy it at your country’s currency. The price may be cheaper than Kansai Thru Pass official site:
Kansai Thru Pass online purchasing by Klook
You also can purchase this pass at Kansai Airport Tourist Information Center and other many visitor centers in Kansai area. Please see the list of sales location in the Kansai Thru Pass official site:
Kansai Thru Pass official site – Where to buy in Japan
I would like to show you price comparison between pass and single fare later in this post.
Coverage area
Please refer the map in Kansai Thru Pass official site.
The pass covers most of Kansai area, such as Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, Wakayama, Kansai airport, Osaka airport, Kobe airport, Himeji, Mt. Koya and Otsu (beside Biwako lake)
You can go almost every popular spots by this pass without any extra fares. As long as I know, there are a few major spots where cannot be accessed by this pass.
USJ (Universal Studio Japan)
You have to take JR Yumesaki line to get Universal City station. This pass does not cover JR train. The nearest station where you can get by Kansai Thru Pass is Nishikujo. Please find the information about the train network in the link below:
Yoshino
Yoshino is popular to see the cherry blossom in the spring season. Kintetsu Railway connects Osaka-Abenobashi (same location as Tennoji) and Yoshino. Kansai Thru Pass covers Kintetsu Railway but it does not cover whole lines of Kintetsu Railway. Yoshino is outside the coverage area of this pass. You have to add the fare for Tsubosakayama to Yoshino which is the segment outside the coverage area.
The extra fare is 430 yen for one way. You can pay this extra fare when you exit Yoshino station. You can show your Kansai Thru Pass at the gate with the station staff. The staff collects the fare. You can buy the ticket to Tsubosakayama when you leave Yoshino. You can show both the ticket and Kansai Thru Pass when you arrive in Osaka-Abenobashi or other stations where you want to get off.
Nagoya
Nagoya is not in Kansai region and it is completely outside the coverage area as you probably understand. But Kansai Thru Pass covers Kintetsu Railway and Kintetsu Railway runs between Osaka-Namba and Nagoya. Sometimes it makes you get confusing. Kintetsu Railway is the biggest private railway companies in Japan. Kansai Thru Pass does not cover whole part of Kintetsu Railway network. Kansai Thru Pass covers Kintetsu Railway in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara only.
Valid trains and bus lines
The pass covers most of non JR railway lines, all subway lines in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe, and most local/city bus services. You can find the full list of the coverage transportation in the official site. I show you the major services here.
- Nankai railway (Osaka, Koyasan, Kansai airport and Wakayama)
- Hankyu railway (Osaka, Mino, Kobe, Kyoto and Takarazuka)
- Hanshin railway (Osaka, Kobe)
- Keihan railway (Osaka, Kyoto, Otsu, Uji)
- Kintetsu railway (Osaka, Nara, Kyoto)
- Sanyo railway (Kobe, Himeji)
- Kobe railway (Kobe, Arima onsen, Sanda)
- Keifuku railway, a.k.a. Randen (Arashiyama)
- Eizan railway (Kifune, Hieizan)
- Osaka Metro subway and city bus
- Kyoto city subway and city bus
- Kobe city subway and city bus
- Osaka Monorail (Itami airport)
- Kobe Portliner (Kobe airport)
Any JR lines are not covered by Kansai Thru Pass. Please see the link below to find the information of the train network in Kansai area:
Highway bus and Airport limousine bus are not covered by Kansai Thru Pass. And the limited express seat fee requires on top of Kansai Thru Pass to take the following trains:
- Kintetsu Railway limited express trains among Osaka-Namba, Osaka-Uehonmachi, Tsuruhashi, Kyoto and Nara
- Nankai Railway limited express “Rapi:t” between Kansai airport, Tengachaya, Shin-Imamiya and Namba
- Nankai Railway limited express “Koya” and “Rinkan” between Namba and Hashimoto/Gokurakubashi
- Nankai Railway sightseeing train “Tenku” between Hashimoto and Gokurakubashi
- Nankai Railway limited express “Southern” between Namba and Wakayama
This train has non reserved seat too. If you ride on non reserved seat car, no extra charge is required. But accommodation is completely different. Reserved seat is an express train seat but non reserved seat is a commute trains’ interior. You may have to stand up. - Keihan Railway limited express Premium car
This train has non reserved seat too. Non reserved seat is not bad but reserved seat is much bigger.
Other railway company, such as, Hankyu, Hanshin, Sanyo, operate the limited express trains. But these trains are just the fastest train. Some of trains have better interior than a local train. But any extra charge is not required.
Compare cost between pass and single fare
I show you some trip plans and compare the cost. Actually it is not easy to spend same cost as 2-day pass at 4,300 yen.
Kansai airport to Osaka (Namba and other area in downtown)
If you go to Namba area, Nankai railway is the best choice. The fare is 920 yen. But as I mentioned above, you have to pay another 520 yen at least to take the Limited Express “Rapi:t”. Of course there are many express trains without any extra charge between Kansai airport and Namba. If you want to save the money, don’t take Rapi:t.
You can transfer to most of subway lines at Namba. You can access to most of places in downtown Osaka by subway. Subway fare is from 200 yen. If you go to Umeda from Namba, fare is 230 yen. But if you will stay in Shin-Osaka area, consider to take limited express Haruka. It gives you direct access there. Even if you stay in Umeda area, JR Kansai Airport Rapid takes you JR Osaka station (Umeda) directly. Please refer the post, How to access from Kansai airport to downtown Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.
If you use one of two days in Kansai Thru Pass, you need to spend another 3,000 yen on next day. Otherwise it is hard to get your money worth. I think it is not a good idea to use the pass for Kansai airport access. I recommend you to use Rapi:t Tokudane Return-trip ticket (round trip by Rapi:t between Namab/Shin-Imamiya/Tengachaya and Kansai airport) or
Kanku Chikatoku ticket (Nankai railway base fare from Kansai airport to Namba and subway one way ticket) at 980 yen.
Kansai airport to Kyoto
Actually it is not a good idea. Total fare is 1,550 yen. You can spend more than access to Osaka. But there is no direct train. The best way to Kyoto from Kansai airport is the following:
Kansai airport -> (Nankai) -> Tengachaya -> (Osaka subway Sakisuji line/Hankyu) -> Awaji -> (Hankyu) -> Kawaramachi
Subway Sakaisuji line and Hankyu go through the trains each other. But usually you need to transfer the train at Awaji. You have to transfer at least twice at Tengachaya and Awaji. And there are only commute trains between Tengachaya and Kawaramachi. And also if you stay around JR Kyoto station area, you need to transfer to Kyoto subway at Karasuma. I think it is too much right after you arrive by international flight. If you really want to take this route (Nankai-Subway-Hankyu), you can use Kyoto Access Ticket at 1,200 yen. This gives you better deal. You may be stay in Kyoto on next day for sightseeing. You can purchase Kyoto city pass (subway and city bus) at 1,200 yen for one day. Total cost will be much cheaper than Kansai Thru Pass.
But I recommend to use JR lines instead of above route, especially limited express Haruka. That train take you to Kyoto directly. It is much more comfortable and there are a few good deal, JR West Kansai area pass and ICOCA and Haruka. Please refer the post, Direct access to Shin Osaka, Kyoto from Kansai airport, Kansai Airport Limited Express “Haruka”.
Kansai airport to Kobe
There is no direct access as well. Total fare is 1,290 yen. Kobe Access Ticket at 1,100 yen is also available. If you want to save your days of Kansai Thru Pass, this ticket gives you better deal. The fastest and easiest way it the following:
Kansai airport -> (Nankai) -> Namba -> (Walk) -> Osaka-Namba -> (Hanshin) -> Sannomiya (Average travel time is 100 minutes)
If you take Rapi:t, travel time is getting 5 to 10 minutes shorter. Hanshin’s Osaka-Namba station is not far from Nankai Namba station. But you need to exit from Nankai station and walk about 5 minutes at least.
If you take JR trains, single fare is 1,660 yen. And travel time is almost same.
Kansai airport -> (limited express Haruka) -> Shin-Osaka -> (Special Rapid) -> Sannomiya (Average travel time is 90 minutes)
or
Kansai airport -> (Kansai Airport Rapid) -> Osaka -> (Special Rapid) -> Sannomiya (Average travel time is 105 minutes)
If you worry about transfer at Namba, I recommend you to take JR. You still need to transfer the train even if you take JR trains. But you can transfer the trains in the station. There are many more signs and it is obviously easier.
Kansai airport to Nara
There is no direct access as well. Total fare is 1,430 yen. Nara Access Ticket at 1,200 yen is available as well. If you want to save your days of Kansai Thru Pass, this ticket gives you better deal. The fastest and easiest way it the following:
Kansai airport -> (Nankai) -> Namba -> (Walk) -> Osaka-Namba -> (Kintetsu) -> Nara (Average travel time is 100 minutes)
If you take Rapi:t, travel time is getting 5 to 10 minutes shorter. Kintetsu’s Osaka-Namba station is same station as Hanshin Osaka-Namba station. These two railway companies’s trains go through each other. You need to exit from Nankai station to get Kintetsu Osaka-Namba station and walk about 5 minutes at least.
If you take JR trains, single fare is 1,660 yen. And travel time is a bit shorter than Nankai-Kintetsu combination. If you take Haruka, you can save another 10 to 15 minutes.
Kansai airport -> (limited express Haruka) -> Tennoji -> (Yamatohji Rapid) -> Nara (Average travel time is 75 minutes)
or
Kansai airport -> (Kansai Airport Rapid) -> Tennoji -> (Yamatoji Rapid) -> Nara (Average travel time is 90 minutes)
Transfer at Tennoji by JR trains are much easier than transfer at Namba between Nankai station and Kintetsu station.
Day trip to Kyoto from Osaka
Hankyu Railway and Keihan Railway take you to Kyoto from Umeda by Hankyu, from Yodoyabashi, Tenmabashi and Kyobashi by Keihan. One way fare to Kyoto is about 400 yen. Most of you take subway or city bus for sightseeing in Kyoto. If you purchase one day city pass for subway and city bus, it is 1,200 yen for one day and 2,000 yen for 2 days. But Kansai Thru Pass includes Kyoto subway and city bus.
So if you use Kansai Thru Pass for this trip, you can spend 2,000 yen worth at least. But if you have same trip in two days in row, total cost is 2,000 yen (Kyoto 2 days pass) + 1,600 yen (Keihan or Hankyu two round trips) = 3,600 yen. Actually Kansai Thru Pass 2 days is not cheaper. There are still some more cases that you can spend more.
*If you stay in Namba or other areas and need to take Osaka subway to get Hankyu or Keihan station, you will spend another 200 yen worth. At result, Kansai Thru Pass may be cheaper.
*If you go to Arashiyama and other areas (Kyomizudera temple, Kinkakuji temple, etc) in one day, you may be take Keifuku Railway, subway and bus in one day. Keifuku Railway runs among Arashiyama, Kitano-Hakubaicho (near Kintakuji) and Shijo-Omiya. Basic fare is only 200 yen. But this 200 yen makes your cost of Kansai Thru Pass cheaper than regular fare.
*If you go to Kurama by Eizan Railway, one way fare is 410 yen. If you go to Kurama, Kansai Thru Pass is the best choice.
Day trip to Kyoto from Kobe
The only difference from day trip to Kyoto from Osaka is round trip fare to Kyoto. One way is 600 yen by Hankyu. But Hankyu do not have any direct train from Sannomiya (downtown Kobe) to Kyoto. You need to transfer the train at Juso (junction of Kyoto line and Kobe line) or Umeda. One day total cost (Hankyu fare+Kyoto 1 day Pass) is 2,400 yen. It is smart way to use Kansai Thru Pass.
Day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto
Actually Nara is very accessible by Kintetsu Railway from both Kyoto and Osaka. You can catch Kintetsu train at Osaka-Namba, Kintetsu-Nihonbashi, Osaka-Uehonmachi and Tsuruhashi. Osaka-Namba station is located within walking distance from Nankai Namba and Subway Namba. And also Kintetsu-Nihonbashi is same location as Subway Nihobashi, Osaka-Uehonmachi is same location as Subway Tanimachi Kyuchome and Tsuruhashi is same location as JR Osaka Kanjo line Tsuruhashi.
On way fare from Namba/Kintetsu-Nihonbashi/Osaka-Uehonmachi to Nara is 540 yen and travel time is 40 minutes. Travel time and fare from Tsuruhashi to Nara are 480 yen and 35 minutes.
If you access to Nara from Kyoto, you can use Kintetsu line too. Kintetsu Kyoto station is exactly same location as JR Kyoto station. One way fare is 610 yen and travel time is 50 minutes.
But actually most of popular spots are within walking distance from Kintetsu Nara station. Please refer the post, How to access to Nara by Japan Rail Pass. If you don’t use JR Pass, Kintetsu Railway is more convenient. to get the details about Nara. If you access to the spots where is located at other than city center of Nara, like Houryuju temple, Heiankyo, you need to get some more trips. But as long as you see the spots around Nara stations, Kansai Thru Pass is not the best choice. Total fare is too low to use Kansai Thru Pass.
Day trip to Kobe from Osaka or Kyoto
Sannomiya (downtown Kobe) can be accessed by Hankyu or Hanshin. From Umeda, both Hanshin and Hankyu have stations. Travel time and fare are completely same. Those are 310 yen and 30 minutes.
If you depart from Namba, you can catch Hanshin train at Osaka-Namba. Travel time is 40 minutes and fare is 400 yen.
If you depart from Kyoto, it is reverse way from Kobe to Kyoto. You can take Hankyu but you need to transfer at Juso or Umeda. Travel time is 70 minutes and one way fare is 600 yen.
As you see, return fare to Kobe is not so expensive. If you want to use Kansai Thru Pass for trip to Kobe, you need to take extra transportation in Kobe. There are Kobe subway and Port Liner. You can take subway to Harborland (Kobe port waterfront area) and Port Liner to Port Island. Basic fare starts at 200 yen. If you have several trip, you can make around 500 yen value.
Day trip to Himeji from Osaka, Kobe or Kyoto
Sanyo Railway runs train service between Sannomiya (Kobe) and Sanyo-Himeji (same place as JR Himeji station). Both Sanyo and Hanshin go through the train each other. “Direct Limited Express” connects Hanshin Umeda with Sanyo-Himeji directly. Some of Sanyo trains operate to Hankyu Sannomiya station too. You can transfer from/to Sanyo and Hankyu at Sannomiya station.
If you access from Sannomiya (Kobe) or Umeda, you can take Direct Limited Service to Sanyo-Himeji. If you access from Kyoto, the easiest way is using Hankyu to Sannomiya and transfer to Sanyo trains. Travel time and one way fare are the following:
From Sannomiya to Sanyo-Himeji – 60-65 minutes / 940 yen
From Umeda to Sanyo-Himeji – 90-100 minutes / 1,450 yen
From Kawaramachi (Kyoto) to Sanyo-Himeji via Hankyu Sannomiya – 130 minutes / 1,540 yen
If you use Kansai Thru Pass for trip to Himeji, you can easily get more value than price of pass. However, if you use JR trains Special Rapid Service, it is so much faster.
Kyoto -(28 minutes)- Osaka -(22 minutes)- Sannomiya -(40 minutes)- Himeji
Special Rapid Service is operated between Himeji and Kyoto directly. It is 30 minutes shorter between Osaka and Himeji, and 40 minutes faster between Kyoto and Himeji. It is much faster and more convenient. So JR West Kansai Area Pass may be considerable. JR’s return fare between Osaka and Himeji is 2,900 yen. It is much cheaper than 1 day Kansai Area Pass at 2,000 yen.
Day or overnight trip to Mt. Koya
Nankai Railway connects Namba with Mt. Koya. This train is the easiest and the fastest to get Mt. Koya. Please refer the post, How to access World Heritage Mt. Koya. Japan Rail Pass can be used to get Mt. Koya?.
One way fare from Namba to Mt. Koya is 1,230 yen by Nankai Railway and Nankai Koyasan Cable Car. If you want to take Limited Express “Koya”, you need to pay express surcharge, 760 yen. This surcharge is not included in Kansai Thru Pass. And also Kansai Thru Pass cover most of local bus lines on Mt. Koya. So you can get maximum value to use the pass for the trip to Mt. Koya.
However if you stay in Mt. Koya, you spend 2 days. It is very hard to get same value as Kansai Thru Pass 2 days at 3,800 yen. It is very hard to get the value of 3 days either. If you have overnight trip to Mt. Koya, please think about Koyasan-World Heritage Ticket. It includes return fare, local bus and limited express surcharge too. Of course you can use this ticket for day trip too.
Assesment
If you use Kansai Thru Pass for trip to Kyoto, Himeji and Mt. Koya, you must get more value than price. On the other hand, it is hard to get the value for trip to Kobe and Nara basically. And you have to compare Kansai Thru Pass and other pass/ticket, such as JR West Kansai Area Pass, Koyasan-World Heritage Ticket for trip to Mt. Koya or Himeji.
However this pass is still useful. Because you might use the pass after you finish your day trip. Especially if you stay in Osaka, you might have a lots of chance to take Osaka subway after you finish day trip for shopping or dining. Minimum fare of Osaka subway is 200 yen. For example, if you have return trip to Shinsaibashi from Namba, it costs 400 yen. You can make 1,000 yen value easily for just using Osaka subway.
And also you can get discount at more than 350 attractions by Kansai Thru Pass. This is a big benefit, like 100 yen discount at Kaiyukan aquarium, Osaka castle, and many more.
Full list of facilities where you can get benefit (PDF file)
If you stay in Kansai area for 4 or more days, think about using multiple passes, such as Kansai Thru Pass and JR West Kansai Area Pass. I hope this post will help you to find the best and most economical way.
Comments
Hi, I am planning to travel to the Kansai region in April 2014. Day 1 – we arrive in Kansai Airport at 8.25am. Hotel is in Awaza. Planning trips to Osaka Castle, Osaka Observatory and Namba Dotonbori area. Day 2 – Kyoto – Arashiyama, Fushimi, Gion, Higashiyama. Day 3 – Nara Park & Kobe. Day 4 – Osaka City.
Is it worthwhile to get the 3 day Kansai Thru Pass? What about the 4th day. Our flight back is at 11.55pm. What type of ticket should i purchase to see some parts of Osaka and go back to the Airport? please help. Thank you.
Hi Vasanthi,
Kansai Thru Pass will work for the first 3days for your trip. But day 2 and 3 will be very tight. Especially Kobe is completely different direction of Nara. You may be able to do it. But keep it in your mind.
Regarding day 4, you will get some deals at the following link for trip to KIX.
http://www.howto-osaka.com.e.iv.hp.transer.com/top/ticket/railway/
If you make a lot of trip in Osaka before departure, you can use Eco card.
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/ticket/convenient.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Dear Takeshi,
Thank you very much for your help. You certainly cleared my doubts. Day 2 & 3 is tight. In Kyoto we are planning to see as much as we can. If we can’t we might just skip some places or just take pictures only without going inside. As for day 3. Better part of the day we will be in Nara. We only want to see the night view of Kobe as it looked really beautiful in the pictures.
The link for day 4 for our trip back to the airport which type of ticket would work? As I can see it shows tickets from the airport and not the other way round. Please help with your advice. Thank you.
Hi Vasanthi,
You missed this part of my reply.
If you make a lot of trip in Osaka before departure, you can use Eco card.
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/ticket/convenient.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Thank you for your help. Does the eco card cover my trip to the airport as well?
No, you have to pay separately.
Thank you again. Which rail ticket should I get to the airport from namba station. The link you posted does it cover trip from namba to airport or from airport to namba only?
You can use Eco card to get Namba by subway. Or if you don’t use Eco Card, use Kansai Chikatoku tikcet. It covers subway trip to Namba as well.
Hi, I need your kind assistance in what pass (either JR pass or Kansai Thru Pass) to get for my Osaka trip. My itinerary are as follows:
Day 1 – arrive Osaka (hotel is Hotel Vista Grande Osaka) I plan to take the limousine bus
Day 2 – day trip in Kyoto (visit Golden Pavillion, Fushimi Imari Shrine, Nishin Market, Higashiyama District, Gion)
Day 3 – day trip in Nara Park
Day 4 – day trip in Rinku Shopping Outlet
Hope you can help me in what pass to get to have the best and most economical trip. Many thanks!
Hi Speedygyg,
Kansai Thru Pass is the best choice for day 2 to 4. All part of your trip will be covered by this pass,
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi,I am going to visit Osaka, Kyoto & Nara in February for 5 days with my wife and other couple friends. I wish to know if our choice of passes can give us savings. We will stay in a hotel near Nagahoribashi Station.
Here is our itinerary:
Day 1) 2000 Arrive at Kansai Airport, Check-in at Ark Hotel Osaka
Day 2) Osaka Sightseeing: Osaka Castle, Umeda Skybuilding, River Cruise, National Museum of Art
Day 3) Kyoto Tour: Kinkakuji, Kiyomizudera, Philosopher’s Path, Ginkakuji, Nishiki Market
Day 4) Nara Tour: Kofuku-ji, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara Park, Todai-ji
Day 5) Shopping at Shinsaibashi, Amerikamura, Nipponbashi, Depart to Airport at 1700
On day 1, we plan to get a one way pass from the airport to our hotel. We plan to purchase the Osaka Unlimited Pass for day 2. For days 3-5, we will use the Kansai Thru Pass
Are we going to get some savings using the passes mentioned above?
If not can you recommend other cheaper & convenient passes?
Thanks in advance for your reply.
Hi Boc,
Your choice is perfect.
I just want to make sure only one thing. On day 1, what do you mean one way pass? Does it mean single ticket? If so, Kansai Chikatoku ticket is the best choice.
http://www.howto-osaka.com.e.iv.hp.transer.com/top/ticket/railway/chikatoku.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Thank you so much for your advice. You’re a big help to travelers who wish to make their Japan Trip worthwhile & enjoyable.
Hi Boc,
I’m happy to hear that.
Enjoy your trip!
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hello Takeshi sir/madam,
We Plan to visit Osaka in the 3rd week of May 2014 for 5 days.
Reaching Kansai Intl. Airport on May 18, 2014 7.55pm.
Hotel is booked in Chuo-Ku, Shimanouchi, Osaka for the 5 days (5 Nights and 6 days).
1. Which rail would be the cheapest to go to hotel from the Airport?
2. On the same night can we visit any neighborhood?
3. On Day 2 we would like to go to Kyoto and visit most of the attractions there. Will one day be enough to see Kyoto? If it is not enough, we wish to go back to Osaka hotel and return the next day to spend another 1/2 day (morning). The afternoon, which place can you recommend to visit – either Nara, Kobe, Heimeiji or Mount Koya? Pls help to know which place is near to Kyoto that you can recommend.
4. 4th day, we would like to go to the remaining place which we did not cover on the 3rd day (item 3 above).
5. On the 5th day, Is there any other attractions that we have missed and that you can recommend for 1/2 day (morning). That afternoon, we would like to spend for Osaka City tour.
6. On the 6th day (May 23, 2014) we would like to see the remaining Osaka attractions, since our flight back is at 8.40pm out from Kansai airport.
7. Would like to know which rail pass would be good for us to use the above itinerary. We`are a party of 3 adults (2 adults and one 13 year old daughter).
8. Will ‘Kansai Thru’ Pass be ideal? if so, on what all days should I use this – 2-day pass or 3-day pass to use in the above itinerary.
9. Please let me know how long it will take inside the Universal Studios Japan, since 13 year old daughter is with me.
Please advice. Thank you very much for your all assistance and advises.
Regards,
Rajeev
Hi Rajeev,
My answers are the following:
1. Which rail would be the cheapest to go to hotel from the Airport?
Kanku Chikatoku ticket is recommended.
http://www.howto-osaka.com.e.iv.hp.transer.com/top/ticket/railway/
2. On the same night can we visit any neighborhood?
Namba and Shinsaibashi area.
3. On Day 2 we would like to go to Kyoto and visit most of the attractions there. Will one day be enough to see Kyoto? If it is not enough, we wish to go back to Osaka hotel and return the next day to spend another 1/2 day (morning). The afternoon, which place can you recommend to visit – either Nara, Kobe, Heimeiji or Mount Koya? Pls help to know which place is near to Kyoto that you can recommend.
It’s very hard to say. Because it depends on your taste. Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera, Kinakuji temple (Golden pavilion) and Fushimi Inari are popular. But the choice is yours. Please see the following link:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html
I think one day is not enough. But it depends on how much you like Kyoto.
Regarding half day trip, you can’t go to Himeji and Mt. Koya. It’s not enough time to go these places. Only Kobe and Nara will be your choice. I like Kobe because Nara is similar to Kyoto.
4. 4th day, we would like to go to the remaining place which we did not cover on the 3rd day (item 3 above).
If you can use one full day, you can go to Himeji or Mt. Koya. Himeji is same direction as Kobe. You can combine both Himeji and Kobe same day.
5. On the 5th day, Is there any other attractions that we have missed and that you can recommend for 1/2 day (morning). That afternoon, we would like to spend for Osaka City tour.
Osaka city tour is fine, I guess.
6. On the 6th day (May 23, 2014) we would like to see the remaining Osaka attractions, since our flight back is at 8.40pm out from Kansai airport.
7. Would like to know which rail pass would be good for us to use the above itinerary. We`are a party of 3 adults (2 adults and one 13 year old daughter).
I can’t say at this point. You have to fix the schedule first.
8. Will ‘Kansai Thru’ Pass be ideal? if so, on what all days should I use this – 2-day pass or 3-day pass to use in the above itinerary.
Same as above. You have to fix the schedule. After that, you can compare this deal and other deals or single ticket.
9. Please let me know how long it will take inside the Universal Studios Japan, since 13 year old daughter is with me.
I have never been there. So I can’t say anything.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Dear Mr. Takeshi
I have been reading your posts regarding train pass etc but I still hope you can kindly advise on the following itinerary. I’m going japan from end of Jan to Feb.
Day 1: arriving Kansai airport at 830am and will proceed to hotel located close to Honmachi Station.
Day 2: Day trip to Nara
Day 3: Day trip to either Kobe or Mount Koya ( which one would you recommend?)
Day 4: Leave to Kyoto -Visit interesting places around Kyoto
Day 5: Kyoto- Visit interesting places around Kyoto
Day 6: Leave Kyoto around noon and catch flight at Kansai Airport at 455pm.
I’m thinking if i should buy the Kansai Thru pass and some day pass in Osaka?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hi Jane,
Kansai Thru Pass is not a bad choice. Especially if you go to Mt. Koya, you can purchase 3 days pass for Day 1, 3 and 4. If you go to Kobe, 2 days pass is enough. Kobe is much closer than Mt. Koya.
For the trip to Nara, single fare is enough. You don’t need to use the pass.
For sightseeing in Kyoto on day 5, you can purchase Kyoto city sightseeing card.
http://www.city.kyoto.jp/koho/eng/access/transport.html
At last, you can use JR West Kansai Area Pass 1 day for the trip to KIX from Kyoto.
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
You can get Haruka Express to KIX. This is only direct train to KIX from Kyoto. This is not a good idea to use Kansai Thru Pass on this day.
It’s very hard to say which one is better, Kobe or Mt. Koya. Those are totally different location. If you are interested in temple, Zen and nature, Mt. Koya is better. Kobe is a port town with foreign country’s influence. If you visit both, you can squeeze.
Day 2 Kobe
Day 3 Mt. Koya
Day 4 Osaka-Nara-Kyoto (You can get Kyoto in late afternoon.)
Day 5 Kyoto
Day 6 Kyoto-KIX (You will have half day in Kyoto)
In this case, you can use Kansai Thru Pass for Day 1, 3 and 4.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi-
I will be spending a week in Japan next February to visit my son who is attending college. I know that he is no eligible to purchase a rail pass (all the websites are very clear on that point) I am trying to determine what it will cost him verse how much my rail pass is. We will be traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto region. Once we get to Kyoto all our travel will be in the Kasai Region. Is the an economically priced ticket that he can purchase – maybe a 4 day pass?
Thank you
Hi A RUDDELL,
First of all, there is no deals between Kyoto and Tokyo. Only single ticket is his choice.
In Kansai area, Kansai Thru Pass is only choice that your son can get it. However the coverage of Kansai Thru Pass is completely different from JR Pass. For example, please see the link below about coverage in Kyoto and Osaka.
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-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
So if you use JR Pass and use it to its maximum, his choice is only single ticket. If you don’t use JR Pass, both of you can purchase same pass, Kansai Thru Pass.
Even if you can purchase same pass, single ticket may be cheaper. It depends on your itinerary.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Thank you Takeshi-
This is good information. Is there a link to the cost of tickets for the Kansai Thru Pass?
Much appreciated.
Anne
Hi Anne,
Please see above of this page. 🙂
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi!
I am planning for my upcoming trip to Japan when I came across this site. I am having trouble on deciding about what pass to get. My itinerary as follos:
Day1. 2225 – Arrival at Kansai International Airport. (take train to my hotel located at Shinsaibashi)
Day2. Kema Sakuranomiya Park, Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha, Shintennoji Temple, Shinsekai)
Day3. Nara (day trip) – Kofuku-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Todai-ji Temple, Gangou-ji Temple, Nigatsu-do & Sangatsu-do
Day 4. Mt. Koyasan (day trip)
Day 5 – early morning Osaka to Kyoto (will be staying around Shimogyo Ward) – GinkaKuji, Philosopher’s Path, Nanzenji, Keagi Shrine, Yasaka Shrine, Kodaiji, Kiyomizudera Temple
Day 6 – Monkey Park, Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryuji, Jojakkoji, Gioji, Otagi Nenbutsuji, Daikakuji)
Day 7 – Golden Pavillion, Ryoan Ji Temple, Ninnaji, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Nijo castle
Day 7 – EVENING go back to Kansai Airport to catch my flight @ 23.35
I am really confused as to what rail passes should I get. I hope you could help me.
Thanks a lot!x
Hi Ella,
My recommendation is as follows:
Day 1 single ticket train or limousine bus
You may be able to catch the last train. Please see the timetable below:
http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/access/train/nankai_time.html
The last train is 23:29. It’s very tight. If you miss this, your next option is limousine bus.
http://www.kate.co.jp/pc/e_time_table/e_namba.html
It’s still tight too. Even if you catch this bus, you have to take a taxi to get Shisaibashi from Namba. I don’t know an exact fare. I estimate 1000 – 2000 yen.
If you miss this bus, you have to take a bus to Umeda.
http://www.kate.co.jp/pc/e_time_table/e_osaka_sta_tt.html#from
In this case, you have to take a taxi too. The fare is more expensive because Umeda is not very close to Shinsaibashi. It costs probably 2000 – 3000 yen.
Day 2 Eco card
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/ticket/convenient.html
Day 3 Single ticket
Day 4 and 5 Kansai Thru Pass 2 days
Day 6 and 7 Kyoto sightseeing card 2 days
http://www.city.kyoto.jp/koho/eng/access/transport.html
Day 7 to KIX JR Kansai Area pass 1 day
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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks a lot for the wonderful suggestion. Been so confused about what rail passes to get. It’s really a great help!
Again, thanks a lot!xxx ☺♥
No problem, Ella.
I hope you catch the train or the bus to Numba on arrival day.
Enjoy your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
HI I got all confused by reading this rail passes savings….
Can I have your advice?
I will be in Osaka this Dec, stayed 2 days before heading to Kyoto (3 days) and Nara and back to Osaka (3 days).
Which will be better for me
1) ICOCA & Haruka
2) JR west
3) Kansai pass
My travel agent advice me to take a 3 days Kansai pass. Frankly I am not sure how much savings I am getting and when is the best to activate it since I will be in Osaka for almost 8 days.
Pls enlighten me.
Thanks!
Hi Trina,
Before you make a decision, you have to make sure the following things:
1. Where you will stay in Osaka?
JR trains goes to Osaka (Umeda and Shin-Osaka) and Nankai goes to Namba.
ICOCA and Haruka and JR West Kansai Area Pass covers JR trains only. Kansai Thru Pass covers Nankai. So it depends on which area you stay.
And also you have some more choices to go to Namba.
http://www.howto-osaka.com.e.iv.hp.transer.com/top/ticket/railway/
2. How many trips in Kyoto?
If you visit many places in one day, Kansai Thru Pass may be your choice. But you have to spend more than 1900 yen worth a day. If you take subway, the fare will be 200 to 300 yen. Please see the link below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/kansai-thru-pass-sample-itineraries.html
Kansai Thru Pass is too much for the trip in just Kyoto or Osaka. If you have a trip to Kyoto from Osaka and visit several places in Kyoto, it will be cheaper than single fares.
3. Where are you going to stay in Kyoto?
JR trains go to Kyoto station. But Hankyu and Keihan that are covered by Kansai Thru Pass go to Shijo, Gion and Sanjo area.
4. Kyoto-Nara-Osaka trip will be less than 1500 yen.
It’s not enough for using Kansai Thru Pass and Kansai Area Pass.
At this point, all passes will be too much for your trip. But it depends on your itinerary. I cannot compare single fares and passes now.
If you give me more detailed itinerary, I may be able to give you some more advice.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi takashi-san
Thanks for your reply. Here is my replies to your questions. Hope you can help me with my Confused mind 🙂
1. Where you will stay in Osaka?
We will be stayting at Namba for 3 nights before heading to Kyoto for 2 nights and return to Osaka and stay in University city for 4 nights. My return flight is 10am in the morning. I think the limo bus should serve my family of 6 better to the airport. What do you think?
2. How many trips in Kyoto?
I will be in Kyoto, seeing imperial palace, etc. and will also do a day trip to Nara from there. Visiting Arashimaya as well for the Lantern festival.
3. Where are you going to stay in Kyoto?
Will be at Omiya – village Kyoto for 2 nights.
4. Kyoto-Nara-Osaka trip will be less than 1500 yen.
It’s not enough for using Kansai Thru Pass and Kansai Area Pass. – Noted.
What would you suggest to see especially I have effective 6 full days in Osaka? I have 4 kids from 4-11 yrs. So can’t rush thru the days.
I am exploring Kobe or tennoji Zoo, I am not sure whether Zoo can be an option cos we have been to Ueno Zoo.
hope to hear from you. Thanks!
Hi Trina san,
1. I recommend you to use Nankai Railway. You can use Kanku Tokuwari Rapi:t Ticket.
http://www.howto-osaka.com.e.iv.hp.transer.com/top/ticket/railway/tokuwari.html
On the way back to KIX, as you mentioned, limousine is the best and only direct way to get KIX from USJ.
When you to to Omiya from Namba, take Osaka subway Midousuji line to Umeda and transfer to Hankyu Raliway. I wrote about transfer at Umeda and Osaka station at the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/osaka-station-guide-how-to-change-jr-trains-subway-trains-and-other-private-railways.html
You may use Kansai Thru Pass 2 days for the day of transfer to Omiya from Namba and day trip to Nara from Kyoto if you visit some places in Kyoto after transfer from Namba. It’s not much different from total single fares. But it’s much easier to purchase single ticket one by one.
2. If you take subway and bus more than 5 times a day, you may purchase Kyoto sightseeing card:
http://www.city.kyoto.jp/koho/eng/access/transport.html
3. As long as you stay in Omiya, you have to take trains to get Kyoto station, Gion, Imperial Palace and Arashiyama. That’s reason why I recommend you to use Kansai Thru Pass 2 days. You don’t need to use this in consecutive days.
You may use Osaka Enjoy Eco card.
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/ticket/convenient.html
Subway fare is started at 200 yen. If you travel from Namba to Umeda, the fare is 230 yen. So if you make 4 trips by subway, Eco card will work. But many places can be walked from Namba, like Dotonbori, Houzenji, Shinsaibashi. Check your itinerary and make sure how many trips you will have. Single tickets might be cheaper.
Ueno zoo is much bigger and better than Tennoji zoo and Kobe zoo.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi Takeshi-san
I tried to find your suggested route and train thru Hyperdia. I can’t.
So If I buy the Kansai pass, can i ride on JR rapid line too? or any train that Hyperdia suggests?
Does it allow me to take buses in Kyoto, Arashimaya and Osaka?
I am also thinking to go Himeji and Kobe for a day trip while staying at Universal City. Maybe this will make Kansai pass worth it?
When you say that I don’t have to use 2 days Kansai pass for consecutive days, can you explain? Say, if I clock on 16 Dec at 12pm, the ticket expires on 18 Dec 12pm? or I can use on 16 Dec and 20 Dec??
I am still putting my itinerary in place.
If you have suggestions, let me know cos I have never been to Osaka and Kyoto. I can’t imagine how long I have to stay there for any temple visit. Similarly to Arashimaya. Hope 3 hrs is more than sufficient.
Thanks!
Hi Trina,
First of all, please understand JR trains and other trains (subway and private companies, like Hankyu, Keihan). I wrote about the coverage of all passes in Kyoto. Please see the following link:
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 have JR Kansai Area Pass, you can take any rapid trains. Please see the following link to learn JR rapid trains network in Kansai area:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/rapid-service-network-in-kansai-area.html
If you have Kansai Thru Pass, you can’t take any JR trains. When you search on Hyperdia, you will see “Search details” at the left side, just above “Search” button. If you click it, you will see many check box. Only check “Walk” and “Ordinary train”. And check “Japan Railway (JR)” or “Private Railway”. If you want to search only JR trains, you can clink JR. If you intend to use Kansai Thru Pass, click “Private Railway”.
If you use Kansai Thru Pass, pass is available from 0:00 to 23:59. You can use it on Dec 16 and 20.
At last, it’s hard to say about visiting time at any attraction. Some says, one hour, and other says two hours. And also it depends on the temple size. I think one hour is enough for each temples. But if you visit Arashiyama and want to see many places there, you will spend half days easily. But you will visit there with your kids, right? I don’t think they want to see many temples. All temples may be looks same for them.
You can find more info about attractions at the Japan-Guide com.
http://www.japan-guide.com/
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hello Takeshi / JP Rail,
My name is Jen Nee. I am visiting Osaka, Nara & Kyoto. Can I please confirmed the following information about Kansai Thru Pass?
a) Does the Kansai Thru Pass include train from Kansai Int Airport to Kyoto station & return?
b) Does the Kansai Thru Pass include train from Kansai Int Airport to Nagahoribashi station & return?
c) Does the Kansai Thru Pass include trains from Osaka to Sagaarashimaya & return?
d) Does the Kansai Thru Pass include trains from Osaka to Nara & return?
Thank you.
Hi Jen,
1) Yes. But it’s a long trip and have to change the train at least twice. Please refer above post, chapter “Kansai airport to Kyoto”.
If you want to go JR Kyoto station area, I recommend you to use ICOCA and Haruka.
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
2) Yes.
3) Yes. But if you want to go to JR Saga-Arashiyama station, you have to walk from Randen-Saga station.
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
It takes about 5 minutes.
4) Yes. You can use Kintetsu Railway.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/how-to-access-to-nara-by-japan-rail-pass-if-you-dont-use-jr-pass-kintetsu-railway-is-more-convenient.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Hi, thanks for your information. But just to make sure, i wanna ask about Kansai Thru Pass.
So my itinerary is:
– Morning D1:, from Kansai Airport go to Nara (1200Y)
– Nara sightseeing (500Y city bus)
– Night D1: Nara to Kyoto (?). Sleep in Kyoto
– D2: Kyoto one day (1200Y for bus+subway). Then go back to Osaka at night (by shinkansen)
Assuming Nara to Kyoto is around 1000Y, total is 3900Y, using 2 days Kansai Thru Pass is 3800Y and we might go to other place before go to Nara from Kansai Airport. Also it said some place have discount rate using this PASS.
My question are: is Kansai Thru Pass have the same (or more) benefit than Nara unlimited city bus and Kyoto 1 day bus+subway? I’m still confused since it said can be used for local bus, but it’s not listed exactly which bus (and subway?)
Thanks for your help
Hi Livya,
Nara Kotsu bus is not covered by Kansai Thru Pass. You can get Nara but you cannot take any bus service in Nara. I don’t know which part of Nara you want to go. But most of places can be accessed from Nara station by walk.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/how-to-access-to-nara-by-japan-rail-pass-if-you-dont-use-jr-pass-kintetsu-railway-is-more-convenient.html
In Kyoto, you can use any bus and subway services by Kansai Thru Pass. So it is same benefit as Kyoto city pass. Kansai Thru Pass also cover private company’s railway, such as Randen, Hankyu, Keihan. So it’s much better than Kyoto city pass.
By the way, Shinkansen is not covered by Kansai Thru Pass. If you want to have an experience to take the bullet train, it’s okay. But it’s expensive and not much faster than local trains between Kyoto and Osaka. If you want to use Kansai Thru Pass from Kyoto to Osaka, Hankyu or Keihan is your choice.
https://jprail.com/destinations/how-to-transfer-among-kyoto-osaka-and-kobe-compare-japan-railway-and-private-lines.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail
Dear Takeshi
Many thanks for your help!
No problem, Jane,
Enjoy your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JP Rail