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
Hello, Takeshi!
Why haven’t I found out of this page earlier? I’ve been worried about my upcoming trip to Japan next week. My friend canceled so I have to do this trip alone and your help with regards to what card shall I use will be a very BIG HELP.
My itinerary are as follows:
Day 1 – Arrival at night time at KIX. My accommodation is near Sakaisuji-Hommachi (planning to take Nankai train); Explore Dotonbori
Day 2- Universal Studios, Pokemon Center, Skybuilding, Shinsaibashi
Day 3- Osaka Castle; Nara for deers; Check in around Kyoto Station, Bamboo Grove, Pontocho Alley
Day 4- Ginkakuji, Philosopher’s Path, Nanzenji, Maruyama Park; Fushimiinari; Explore Gion and head to Kyoto Station to wait for night time sleeper bus to Tokyo.
I am trying to cut down my expense by not purchasing the JR Pass and taking Kansai Thru Pass and ICOCA card, instead. I am just so confused. Your advice will be highly highly highly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Cheers,
Lady F.
Hi Lady F,
I don’t think Kansai thru pass will work for your trip. I recommend you the following deals:
Kansai One Pass
http://kansaionepass.com/en/about.html?info=1
This is same type of card as ICOCA. But this card gives you some discount at many attractions. You can use this card to take Nankai railway and subway on day 1, subway and Kintetsu railway on day 3
Osaka amazing pass
http://www.osaka-info.jp/osp/en/index.html
I also suggest you to visit Osaka castle on day 2 and Pokemon on day 3 because amazing pass covers Osaka castle.
By the way, day 2 will be super busy. Most of tourist spend whole day in USJ. But you have other places to visit other than USJ. You may not be able to see less than half of USJ.
On day 4, use Kyoto bus pass at 500 yen.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-kyoto.html
You can visit any places by bus in Kyoto. But train is much faster than bus. So use Kansai one pass to take trains and use bus pass beside Kansai one pass. You can get the worth of bus pass by only 3 rides of bus.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you so much for the prompt reply. I shall weigh down what you advised and decide which pass to get. Thanks again!
No worries, Lady F.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Thanks for all these info and tips! I was wondering if you can advise us which pass(es) would be most economical for our family’s trip to Japan coming up in 2 weeks. We are 2 adults and 1 child of 3 years old. Our itinerary is as below:
Day 1: night flight arriving in KIX airport and check in Washington Kansai airport hotel.
Day 2: transfer to Airbnb located in Ebisuhonmachi (a bit below Namba). Explore Dotonburi.
Day 3: head to Kyoto. Explore Kyoto downtown area & Fushimi Inari shrine (our Airbnb is in Fushimi-ku area)
Day 4: Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka shrine, Maruyama park, and Gion area
Day 5: Arashiyama Bamboo grove + Sagano area
Day 6: head to Nagoya (we’re staying in Higashi area)
Day 7: Nagoya castle + Osu kanon flea market
Day 8: Nagoya Port Aquarium + Nagoya Railway museum
Day 9: Tokugawaen Garden in Nagoya
Day 10: head back to Osaka (Airbnb in Osaka-shi area near Namba). Explore Kuromon Ichiba market + Denden town.
Day 11: day trip to Nara Deer Park
Day 12: Osaka Castle + Park
Day 13: fly back to Canada in the afternoon via Osaka ITAMI airport.
Thank you so much!
Hi Chiccarina san,
The following deals are recommended.
For day 2, 3 and 11
Kansai thru pass
Please see the details in the post above.
For day 4
Kyoto sightseeing card
For day 5, 6 (in Nagoya), 7, 8, 9, 10, 12,13
single ticket
*You may get Kansai One Pass instead.
http://kansaionepass.com/en/about.html?info=1
For Kyoto to Nagoya and Nagoya to Osaka
Platt Kodama
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/platt-kodama-one-way-deal-among-tokyo-nagoya-kyoto-and-shin-osaka-by-shinkansen.html
3 years old is free of charge. You don’t need to get any ticket and pass for your child.
But when you use Platt Kodama, your seat will be reserved. So you have to share your seat with your child. If you want to have another seat for your child, you have to pay regular fare because Platt Kodama is not available for child. You can purchase child ticket when you purchase Platt Kodama. Child fare is half amount of regular adult fare.
Cheers,
Taekshi / JPRail.com
Takeshi-san,
Thank you for your suggestions! We never even heard of the Platt Kodama so this is very useful information for us.
I do want to ask for clarification when you said:
“For day 5, 6 (in Nagoya), 7, 8, 9, 10, 12,13
single ticket
*You may get Kansai One Pass instead.”
Did you mean for those days I could choose to purchase single tickets as I go, or instead purchase a Kansai One Pass to cover the travel costs for these days…? Or was the Kansai One Pass only for the remaining days in Osaka (Days 10-13)?
Hi Chiccarina san,
In my understanding, you can use Kansai One Pass in Nagoya too. Because this is same type of other IC card. You can take most of trains and buses in major cities in Japan, such as Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya. So you can use this card for day 5, 6 (in Nagoya), 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13.
Kansai one pass include 2500 yen e-money. But 2500 yen is not enough to cover these days. You have to add more fund into your card. You can add more fund at the vending machine in most of JR stations in Kansai area. Minimum is 1000 yen and you can add more, like, 2000 yen, 3000 yen.
If you have this card, you don’t need to purchase a ticket whenever you take a train. All you have to do is tapping your card at the machine gate. The fare will be subtracted from your card automatically. But this card gives you same value as cash payment. It gives you only convenience but not any discount.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks again for taking the time to fully explanation and assist us in our trip planning. I will look into these options further. 🙂
Hi Chiccarina,
No worries.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
So lucky me found this article.
Can you please help me if what pass should we use for our Osaka-Kyoto. Please.
Will be in Japan this coming April 2-9. And planning to stay first in Osaka-Kyoto from April 2-5.
April 5 will going to Tokyo and stay there for the rest of our trip before going back to Manila.
Day 1
– 5:30AM ETA – Kansai Airport
– Staying at Shimanouchi Osaka Area
– Visit Momofuku Ramen Museum at Ikeda
– Kema Sakuranomiya Park
– Umeda Sky Building
– Explore Shinsaibashi-Dotonbori area
Day 2
– Osaka to Kyoto
– Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine
– Ginkakuji > Philosopher’s Path > Nanzenji > Keage Incline > Heian Shrine > Maruyama Park
– Higashiyama District
– Go back to Osaka
Day 3
– Osaka to Kyoto
– Toei Movie Studio Park
– Nara Park
– Owl Cafe
– Go back to Osaka
Day 4
– Osaka to Tokyo (want to use bullet train one way)
– Stay around Shinjuku area.
will stay in Tokyo for the rest of our Trip . 🙂
Thank you so much.
Regards,
Alen
Hi Alen,
For day 1 to 3
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
For day 4
Single ticket or Platt Kodama, please see the link below to find more info:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/platt-kodama-one-way-deal-among-tokyo-nagoya-kyoto-and-shin-osaka-by-shinkansen.html
Tokyo subway ticket or other deals available in Tokyo. Please see the link below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/kanto-area/tokyo-kanto-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-best-deal-and-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Super thanks for your reply. Will use the Kansai 3 days pass for our Osaka-Kyoto. 🙂
Can I ask if where or how can I purchase the ticket for Nozomi Shinkansen from Osaka to Tokyo? Do I need to purchase in advance or okay to purchase within the day of our departure to Tokyo?
Thank you so much for your help. 🙂
Alen 🙂
Hi Alen,
You can purchase a ticket for Nozomi at any major JR stations. You can purchase it in advance or even 10 minutes prior to departure time as long as seat is available.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/for-non-jr-pass-travellers-guide-to-use-jr-single-ticket-basic-rules-validity-and-stopover.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Great help as always Takeshi! Thank you so so much! 🙂
Thanks for your time.
God Bless you.
Cheers,
Alen
No worries, Alen.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Mr.Takeshi.
My family and I are planning to visit Osaka for 2 days and go to Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Castle,Dotonbori and Namba, I hope you could teach us how to go around Osaka by train. Thank you very much
Rei
Hi Rei,
Please see the link below to find the train route to major attractions.
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
You can find the deals for trips in Osaka at the link below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-osaka.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Lucky me found this article. Actually, I am in Kobe right now, but not for a vacation, only for meetings. LOL.
My boss will let me to have 1 day free to stay in Japan.
I have booked an accommodation nearby Shin-Imamiya train station. For 1 free day I want to visit Nara (to see deer park), Himeji Castle (Osaka) and hanging around in Dorotobori area at night and back to my country from KIX Airport (9 am flight).
What kind of pass/ticket do I have to purchased? Do you think it is possible to cove all the areas within 1 day?
Need your advise.
Thank you.
Hi Ade,
Kansai area pass one day is most recommended.
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
It covers both Nara and Himeji by JR trains. But you cannot take Shinkansen when yo go to Himeji. You have to take Special rapid from Osaka.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/rapid-service-network-in-kansai-area.html
One day for Himeji and Nara is tight but not impossible.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi
I am arriving at KIX on Saturday 4th March staying near Namba station for 9 nights.
I hope to have day trips to Kyoto and Nara, and maybe one other day trip if you have a suggestion.
I will also visit a friend in Nagoya and stay one night.
While I am in Osaka, I will be travelling around using local transport.
What is the best pass or passes for me to buy.
Thanks for your very helpful website.
Hi Gerry,
You may find all info at the link below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
Kintetsu rail pass is the best choice to get Nagoya from Namba.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/kintetsu-rail-pass-most-affordable-deal-for-osakakyoto-nagoya-and-access-to-ise.html
You should add limited express fee on top of the pass because there is no direct trains to Nagoya other than limited express train. It’s too complicated to get Nagoya by local trains only.
If you use Kintetsu rail pass, you can use this pass to get Nara too. You don’t need to use other pass for the trip to Nara.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thank you for the information you’ve shared in this post! Now, I somehow have an idea on how to use KTP but I do want to get my money’s worth on the pass that I’ll buy and I’ve been looking through ICOCA, JR Pass, and KTP (I’ve also read that with this pass, some attractions is free). I’m not sure what pass would be best to use. These are the places I’m planning to visit:
Day 1: Kansai Airport to Osaka near JR Namba area (where I’ll be staying) — I’ll be arriving at night, so I’m planning to just buy a one-time train ticket for this
Day 2: Osaka to Kyoto, Travel around Kyoto for half day (by train), Go back to Osaka, Travel around Osaka (by train)
Day 3: Osaka to Tokyo, Travel aroung Kyoto the whole day (by train), Go back to Osaka
Day 4: Universal Studios — I plan to just buy a one-time train ticket for this
Day 5: Osaka to Nara, Travel around Nara (I’ve read that there’s a 1-Day bus pass that I can purchase), Go back to Osaka, Travel around Osaka if there’s still time (by train)
Day 6: Travel around Osaka for half day (by train), Osaka to Kansai Airport
I hope you can help me decide on which pass will best fit my itinerary. It’s my first time travelling to Japan, so I don’t really have much idea on the diff. trains and passes available.
Thank you! I’ll be waiting for your response. Have a great day! 🙂
Hi Nicole,
JR pass is required for round trip to Tokyo. So 7 days JR pass is your choice.
But you may have to add other deals or extra fares in Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo because JR pass does not cover subway and city bus. Please see the links below to find the coverage of JR Pass.
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/kanto-area/tokyo-kanto-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-best-deal-and-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
JR pass is required anyway because Tokyo-Osaka round trip fare by Shinkansen is almost equal to 7 days JR pass.
By the way, you need to spend 3 hours one way if you go to Tokyo. Please keep it in your mind.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Apologies, I mean to say Osaka and not Tokyo in my post. 🙂
Hi Nicole,
Okay. You may use Kansai thru pass for outside Osaka, like Nara, Kyoto.
In Osaka, you can use one of local deals. And also there are some deals available for KIX-Osaka. Please see the links below:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-osaka.html
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,
Funny how I never get to correct what I meant to say. It’s “Osaka to Kyoto” in my itinerary. Haha! Either way, your last answer is really helpful. I will look into the links you provided. Thank you very much for the help!
Regards,
Nicole
No worries, Nicole.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi,
Really appreciate your help on my itinerary and train pass
Me and my son should reach KIX at 9.30 am on 24 Feb 17. We plan to stay until 2 Mar 17 (flight about 11am)
I have booked guest house somewhere near Kyoto Station for 3 days from 24 to 27 Feb (3 days) and 27 Feb to 2 Mar 17 will stay somewhere Shimanouchi (Osaka).
My itinerary as below:
24 Feb (Kansai thru Pass – day1) from KIX to Kyoto then visit attraction near Kyoto Station (I was informed from KIX to Kyoto approximately takes 45 minutes but when I used google map it roughly about 1 h 20 min.
25 Feb (Kansai thru Pass- day2) to Nara & (?) please help any other places that I can include.
26 Feb (Kyoto seightseeing 1 day pass) to cover attraction in Kyoto
27 Feb (Osaka Amazing Pass) Check-in Osaka guest house by 11am an continue exploring Osaka
28 Feb (Osaka Amazing Pass) – Osaka
1 Mar (Kansai thru Pass- day3) – Kobe & himeji
Hi Siti,
I don’t recommend to use Kansai thru pass for day 1. Because you have to change trains at least three time. Trip time is around 2 hours.
I recommend you to use ICOCA and Haruka for day 1. It covers limited express Haruka and this is only direct train service to get Kyoto from KIX. But even if you take Haruka, trip time is 1 hr 20 mins. There is no way to get Kyoto in 45 minutes.
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 may use ICOCA for sightseeing in Kyoto on arrival day and train trip from Kyoto to Osaka on Feb 27.
You can use Kansai thru pass 2 days for day Nara, Kobe and Himeji.
Kyoto has many places to see. You can add the spots in southern Kyoto, such as Fushimi Inari, Uji when you go to Nara. These spots are located on the way to Nara.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
My family will be traveling to Japan for the hanami season. We are looking forward to it. We are staying at Namba Area. Can you please advise us on which is the most economical pass or tickets to buy for our itinerary:
Day 1- Kansai Airport to Nankai-Namba, Explore Dotonburi
Day 2- Kuromon Market, Osaka castle, Japan Mint, Kema Sakuranomiya
Day 3 – Osaka, Umeda
Day 4 – Nara, Mt Yoshino
Day 5 – Kobe, Himeji
Day 6 – Kyoto (Ginkakuji, Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park)
Day 7 – Kyoto Railway Museum, Higashiyama, Gion, Yasaka Shrine
Day 8 – Arashiyama
Day 9 – Kyoto
Day 10 – Kyoto
Day 11 – Nankai Namba to Kansai Airport
Is it worth it to buy Kansai thru pass or just the Icoca Card?
Thank you.
Regards,
Ann Forbes
Hi Ann san,
Kansai thru pass is the best deal for other than Osaka. So you may have 2 X 3 days. (day 4,6,7,8,9,10)
And Kansai area pass is used for day 5.
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
JR train is faster to get Himeji than other railways by Kansai thru pass.
Yokoso Osaka ticket cover day 1 and 2.
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/yokoso.html
You can take Nankai train on day 11. If you take ordinary train, just pay single fare at 920 yen. If you want to take limited express rapi:t, use the deal in the link below:
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/webtoku.html
By the way, Yokoso Osaka ticket includes rapi:t.
The following link give you some idea too.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-San:
We would like to thank you for the tips and guides as well as the personal replies you posted here in your website.
We had a wonderful week in Japan (Kansai Area). From what we read here, We used mainly the Kansai Thru-Pass (KTP) for 90% of our train and bus travels and the Kansai One for the JR trains not covered by the KTP. We patterned our itinerary to your suggestions and recommendations.
The KTP made our train travels seemless and very efficient. We jumped from area to area without much hassle. We never had to line up for tickets. And the trains are on time. Kudos to Japan for your train system. It is indeed like clockwork.
The Kansai One Pass was also very useful. We even used it for some of our small purchases in convenience stores.
Again, thank you, and keep up the good work, Takeshi-San.
We hope to visit Japan again, soon.
Regards,
Zac
Hi Zac san,
I’m very happy to hear that. Hope you will go back to Japan near future. There are many more places to see in Japan!
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com