You may travel in Kansai area only and not travel throughout Japan. You may have one way trip from Osaka to Tokyo. For these travelers, Kansai One Pass/ICOCA and Haruka gives you a good deal for the transfer from Kansai airport to Osaka or Kyoto, and the local sightseeing in Kansai region.
This deal gives you access to Osaka or Kyoto by the limited express Haruka and some preloaded e-money in ICOCA or Kansai One Pass.
I will tell you what this deal is and how to use it in this post.
What is Haruka?
Haruka is the limited express train which offers you a direct transfer from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Tennoji, Shin-Osaka and Kyoto. This train does not stop at Osaka station (Umeda). But it is only one station away from Shin-Osaka. This is only direct train service to Kyoto from KIX. If you go to Kyoto, I highly recommend to take this train because this is the fastest, most convenient and most reliable choice. Please see the post, Limited Express Haruka to get more details.
How to use ICOCA and Kansai One Pass
These are e-money IC card. This deals included 1500 yen e-money in ICOCA or 2,500 yen e-money if you choose Kansai One Pass.
You can use this e-money not only JR trains but also Osaka subway, Kyoto subway, most of private train companies (Hankyu, Keihan, Kintetsu and many more) and even city bus in major cities, like Kyoto. You can use it to shop in the kiosk in the station, the nationwide convenience store (Lawson, Family Mart, Seven Eleven) and even some of major electronics retail store.
If you go to other major cities, like Tokyo, Nagoya, Sapporo, Hakata, Hiroshima after staying in Kansai area, you still can use ICOCA. So you can take most of trains in the other areas by ICOCA, such as subway in Tokyo, JR train in Sapporo and many more.
What is the difference between ICOCA and Kansai One Pass
Kansai One Pass is basically same type card as ICOCA. But Kansai One Pass is available for an overseas tourist only. And the preload amount is 1,000 yen more than ICOCA.
You can take any trains and most of bus services in Kansai area by this card. The way of using Kansai One Pass is exactly same as ICOCA. The biggest feature of this card is offering a discount at many attractions in Kansai area. ICOCA does not offer any discount at the attraction. If you intend to purchase ICOCA, you should purchase Kansai One Pass instead.
You might think that 2,500 yen e-money is too much for your trip. But as I mentioned, you can use this e-money to buy something eat and/or drink in the major convenience store. It is not hard to spend 2,500 yen. You can include Kansai One Pass in ICOCA and Haruka package instead of ICOCA.
Please see the link below to find the detailed information of Kansai One Pass:
Price
Actually you can get only Haruka discount ticket which is Haruka riding ticket portion of ICOCA and Haruka if you have already got ICOCA card or Kansai One Pass.
ICOCA and Haruka price table
Destination | Haruka service section | One way | Round trip |
---|---|---|---|
Osaka, Shin-Osaka | KIX – Shin-Osaka | 3,200 | 4,400 |
Tennoji, JR-Namba | KIX – Tennoji | 3,600 | 5,200 |
Kyoto, Saga-Arashiyama | KIX – Kyoto | 3,800 | 5,600 |
Nara | KIX – Tennoji | 3,700 | 5,400 |
Kobe, Sannomiya | KIX – Shin-Osaka | 3,600 | 5,200 |
Haruka ticket only price table
Destination | Haruka service section | One way | Round trip |
---|---|---|---|
Osaka, Shin-Osaka | KIX – Shin-Osaka | 1,200 | 2,400 |
Tennoji, JR-Namba | KIX – Tennoji | 1,600 | 2,200 |
Kyoto, Saga-Arashiyama | KIX – Kyoto | 1,800 | 3,600 |
Nara | KIX – Tennoji | 1,700 | 2,400 |
Kobe, Sannomiya | KIX – Shin-Osaka | 1,600 | 3,200 |
- One way type ticket is only available both direction, such as KIX to Osaka and Osaka to KIX. But only the deal from KIX is available online. You cannot purchase the ticket to KIX online. You have to purchase it at the station after arrival.
- One way type ticket must be used on the day of purchase. Round trip ticket is valid for 14 days.
- ICOCA and Kansai One Pass can be used whenever you want. ICOCA and Kansai One Pass will be expires in case that you will not use these cards in 10 years at all. If you intend to come back to Japan in next 10 years, you still will be able to use same ICOCA or Kansai One Pass in next trip
- Haruka riding portion of this deal can allow you to use non reserved seat of Haruka or the other local and rapid train. You cannot take a reserved seat or the Green seat of Haruka and other limited express trains, such as the Shinkansen.
If your child is 5 years or younger, it is free of charge.
If you want to get only Haruka ticket without purchasing ICOCA or Kansai One Pass, you can buy a ticket at Klook:
Klook.comI will explain a price comparison later.
How about child deal
ICOCA and Haruka is not available for child. But if you travel between Kansai airport and Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, Kansai Area Pass child rate is cheaper than a single fare.
If you want to compare the exact fare and the price of this pass, the single fare table can be found below. The child rate is applied to 6 years to 11 years old. 5 years old or younger child is free if you share your seat with your child. But when you take a train and there are lots of empty seat, you can give a seat to your child.
ICOCA can be purchased itself beside Kansai area pass. You cannot share your ICOCA Card with your child. Child ICOCA is available. But Please see the next chapter.
How to use ICOCA and Kansai One Pass
Most of you use ICOCA or Kansai One Pass to take a train. The biggest advantage of this card is that you do not have to purchase a ticket when you enter the station and take a train. All you have to do is touch your ICOCA or Kansai One Pass at a ticket gate when you enter/exit station. It is automatically calculated and subtract a fare from your ICOCA or Kansai One Pass. You can save your time when you take a train.
Even if you do not have enough fund in your ICOCA, you can still enter the station and take the trains. (But you must have minimum fares plus 500 yen deposit in this card.) You can add more fund before you enter/exit the station. You can add more fund in your ICOCA or Kansai One Pass at other major cities where other IC cards are available, such as Tokyo, Yokohama, Sapporo, Sendai, Nagoya, Hiroshima and Hakata.
Actually 2,000 yen e-money in ICOCA (2,500 yen in Kansai One Pass) that is included in this deal also includes 500 yen deposit. Therefore your fund in your ICOCA is 1,500 yen and 2,500 yen in Kansai One Pass. If you empty this card and do not use it any more, you can get this 500 yen deposit refund at the station. But if you want to keep ICOCA card itself for your souvenir, you cannot get refund. Especially ICOCA card for this deal is designed for the overseas tourist. It looks different from common ICOCA card. There are two versions available, Wind or Thunder God on the screen (National treasure) or No.1 world famous Japanese character ‘Hello Kitty!’.
If you go to other than Kansai area and want to get refund, complete to use this ICOCA when you stay in Kansai area and get refund. You cannot get any refund in the other cities, like Tokyo.
Child ICOCA is sold at 2,000 yen that is 1,500 yen e-money and 500 yen deposit. It has same value as adult ICOCA card. But if your child use Child ICOCA, child fare is deducted to take a train. Child fare is half amount of adult fare. So it takes longer to spend 1,500 yen e-money than using adult ICOCA.
Please see the following link to get some more information about other IC cards:
How to use this deal
This deal includes 1,500 yen ICOCA e-money or 2,500 yen e-money in the card if you choose Kansai One Pass, and one way/round trip to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara or Kobe. You cannot use this deal to Himeji, Wakayama and other than Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe.
If you go to Sannomiya, Kobe and other stations between Kobe and Shin-Osaka, you have to take Haruka to Shin-Osaka and transfer local, rapid or Special Rapid Service at Shin-Osaka. Of course this ticket covers all part of this trip. However the airport limousine bus runs between Kansai airport and Kobe directly. If you go to Kobe, the airport limousine bus is better way. You can find limousine bus information at the link below:
Kansai airport limousine bus between Kansai airport and Kobe
If you go to Nara, Haruka takes you Tennoji. And then you have to change to Yamatoji Rapid Service to get Nara. There is no direct train services to Nara either. This is same as access to Kobe. The airport limousine bus takes you to Nara directly. You can find limousine bus information at the link below:
Kansai airport limousine bus between Kansai airport and Nara
Price comparison to basic fare
Upper rate is basic fare and lower rate is non reserved seat limited express surcharge.
Adult (12 yrs and up) | Child (6-11 yrs) | |
---|---|---|
KIX – Tennoji | 1060 yen 650 yen | 530 yen 330 yen |
KIX – JR Namba | 1060 yen 650 yen | 530 yen 330 yen |
KIX – Shin-Osaka | 1360 yen 970 yen | 680 yen 480 yen |
KIX – Osaka (Umeda) | 1190 yen 970 yen | 590 yen 480 yen |
KIX – Kyoto | 1880 yen 970 yen | 940 yen 480 yen |
KIX – Sannomiya | 1710 yen 970 yen | 860 yen 480 yen |
This deal is cheaper for all destinations than the regular fares.
Compare to other deals, Nankai Railway deals, JR West Kansai Area Pass and Kansai Thru Pass
If you travel to Shin-Imamiya or Namba, you can take Nankai Railway. The basic fare is only 930 yen if you take the airport express train. Nankai Namba station is located at central of Namba and it is much better location than JR Namba. Even if you want ICOCA, you can purchase only ICOCA or Kansai One Pass. You can buy one of these cards and start using to take the train from KIX right away.
If you go to somewhere in Osaka, like Shinsaibashi, Nihonbashi, Uehonmachi, by subway, Nankai Namba is much easier location to transfer to subway Namba station. If you have very tight budget, Osaka Subway to Kansai int’l Airport ticket is sold at 1,020 yen. This includes Nankai Railway one way basic fare between Kansai airport and Namba and one way trip to/from any Osaka Metro stations. As I mentioned, basic fare from KIX to Namba by Nankai Railway is 930 yen. Osaka Metro fare is starting at 180 yen. If you have the shortest trip, like from Namba to Shinsaibashi, the total fare (Nankai plus Subway) is 1,110 yen. You can use this deal, Osaka Subway to Kansai int’l Airport ticket for the trip to Umeda where is same location as JR Osaka station. Osaka Metro Midosuji line can take you from Namba to Umeda. This is cheaper than JR basic fare 1,210 yen. If you want to get more information about Osaka Subway to Kansai int’l Airport ticket, please see Nankai Railways website.
If you go to Nara by the train after you arrive in KIX, you may consider to use Nara Access Ticket or Kansai Thru Pass. Kintetsu Railway is better to access to Nara because Kintetsu Nara station is better location than JR Nara station. So I recommend you to use Nara Access Ticket or Kansai Thru Pass to get Nara. Please see the post, How to access to Nara.
If you go to Himeji, JR West Kansai Area Pass is the best and the fastest. Kansai Thru Pass can be used to get Himeji. But it is too many transfers and spend many hours. JR trains, Haruka and Special Rapid Service, are much faster.
I explained all deals for airport access at the link below. Please refer this post too.
Comments
Hello Takeshi san.
I read in one of your replies that we can get refund of 500 yen for ICOCA if we empty the card.
Q1: I am quite confused What if there is still a balance remaining indide the card? Can we refubd iy
Hi Ann san,
Actually when you get refund, you have to pay 220 yen handling charge. But if your ICOCA is empty, you don’t need to pay. If the remaining balance is less than 220 yen beside deposit 500 yen, this amount will be taken as handling charge.
For example…
1. If remaining balance is 320 yen, you will receive 100 yen (320-220) and 500 yen deposit.
2. If remaining balance is 120 yen, you will receive 500 yen deposit. 120 yen is taken as handling charge but you don’t need to pay the difference 100 yen.
3. If remaining balance is 0 yen, you will receive 500 yen deposit. No handling charge is required.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you Takeshi san for the very clear explanation Now I know
With regards to Enjoy Eco Card, I am not very sure if it is a wise move to use this card during these “Osaka” days in our itinerary.
1) Awaza -> Momofoku Ramen -> Kita area -> Umeda sky building -> Osaka Station -> Grand Front Osaka -> HEP -> Tenjimbashi-Suji shopping -> Awaza
I am aware that Umeda to Ikeda to Umeda is Single fare.
Q1) Are the places mentioned very near each other & can be reached by walking.
Q2) Is the Enjoy Eco Card a good choice for this day?
2) Awaza -> Osaka Castle -> Osaka Museum of History -> Shinsaibashi -> Dotonbori -> Awaza
Q3) Use Enjoy Eco Card or Single fare?
Thank you so much, Takeshi san!
Cheers,
Ann
Hi Ann san,
You cannot walk for those places in day 1 but single fare (may use ICOCA) is slightly cheaper if you really sure to visit only these places. If you have a time and can visit one more place in Osaka, Eco card may be cheaper. On day 2, it’s same. Single fare may be cheaper.
If you are not sure, go for Eco card.
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Happy Sunday, Takeshi san.
I am quite confused here. Can we use the ICOCA for any single fare we will pay? Even the transportation within Kobe? and even the JR trains or any other trains for that matter?
Thank you!
Cheers!
Ann
Hi Ann san,
You can take any trains by ICOCA.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/osaka-kyoto-kobe-and-nara/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/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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
I still have my Icoca card that I bought last year (I didn’t ask for refund). I am going back to Japan in May and I would like to know what I must do exactly to get the “Haruka discount ticket”. I don’t have to order it from abroad, is that right ?
Thanks in advance for your answer !
Pascale
Hi Pascale,
You may purchase just Haruka discount ticket on the spot because your ICOCA is still available.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi,
I am planning to travel in Japan for 14 days, starting from KIX and leaving from Tokyo Haneda Airport. I am planning to spend more time in the Kansai area such as Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe before visiting my friend in Fukuoka for 2 days before leaving for Tokyo and spend the rest of my time there. Do you have any recommendation for my plans and whether I should get the Haruka and ICOCA card? I am thinking of getting the JR pass to travel to Fukuoka then to Tokyo as well.
Hi Tracy,
You may use JR Pass 7 days for Osaka-Fukuoka-Tokyo.
If you want to make your trip be easier, just stay in Osaka and make day trips to Kobe, Kyoto and Nara. The following link shows you the plan to stay in just Osaka. You may use this plan for your stay in Osaka.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
But JR pass covers the trip to Nara, Kobe as well. When you stay in Tokyo and intend to visit the places in downtown Tokyo only, you can use subway pass and you may not need JR pass. So the key is how you use JR pass. You will use JR pass for the trip to Fukuoka. But you will use only 3 days of 7 days pass. You will have 4 days. You should make sure where you visit in Tokyo. If you go outside Tokyo, like trip to Fuji, you may use JR pass.
JR pass should be used for long trip. I recommend you to find out where you want to visit in both Tokyo and Osaka. And how many days you want to spend in both cities. And then you may find how you can use JR pass 7 days. And you also can find which pass you need for the rest of your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Sorry to trouble you again! I finally planned my itinenary! I plan to stay in Kyoto first from 26 May to 28 May and make my way to Osaka on 29 May. I will be travelling around Kyoto and visiting Arishiyama Iwatayama Monkey Park as well. For Osaka, I will be staying from 29 May to 2 May, making a day trip to Himeji and Nara, a day trip to Kobe and a day trip to Universal Studios Japan. Then I will go to Fukuoka for 3 May and 4 May. From 5 May to 9 May, I will be in Tokyo and depart from Haneda Airport on 9 May. I hope that you can advise me on how to move around using the rail in the cheapest and most convenient way. And if I do not go to Fukuoka, meaning that I will spend a day more in both Osaka and Kyoto, what are my options as well. Sorry for the troublesome request and hope that you can get back to me soon!
Hi Tracy,
If you go to Fukuoka, you can use JR pass 7 days from May 3 to 9.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/japan-rail-pass-user-guide-how-to-use-jr-pass-to-its-maximum.html
For staying in Kyoto and Osaka before using JR pass, please refer the following sample itinerary.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/visit-kyoto-osaka-nara-and-kobe-for-5-to-7-days-sample-itinerary.html
If you don’t go to Fukuoka, please see the link below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/basic-itinerary-of-osaka-kyoto-and-tokyo-in-7-days.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
What is the difference between Pasmo card and ICOCA card???
Which card is better???
Can i get Pasmo card at Shin-Osaka???
Is there any processing fee charged, when returned the card and claimed back the deposit 500 yen???
My itinerary are as follows:
14: arrived KIX 22:25pm
14-15: Osaka
16: Nara
17-18: Kyoto
19: Shirakawago
20-22: Tokyo
22: Leaving 23:30pm Haneda Airport
Plan to use “Tokyo-Osaka Hokuriku Arch Pass” 7days pass start@ Nara.
Do I still need ICOCA card or Pasmo card??
Best regards,
Wendy.
Hi Wendy,
ICOCA is JR West’s card and Pasmo is Greater Tokyo private railway’s card. You can use both card for most of trains, such as JR, subway and major private railways.
You can purchase only ICOCA at Shin-Osaka. Pasmo can be used in Osaka but not sold in Osaka. It’s sold in Greater Tokyo.
You can get 500 yen refund if you make ICOCA be empty. But you have to get the refund before you leave Kyoto. You have to do it in Kansai area, like Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
I don’t think you need it. Single fare is okay becuase you don’t have many chances to use it. In Osaka, subway pass may be better.
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/Card.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Good Day Takeshi
Please help us on the Pass to Buy.
We not very sure.Need your help dearly.
4 Person Traveling
Reach Kansai Airport
Day 1.Kansai Airport to Fukushima station.-stay near Fukushima Station. 3 Nights
Day 4. Travel from Osaka to Toyama Station,
Day 5 Kurobe Alpine Route.will come down by 4pm to reach Ogizawa then to Shinano Omachi.
****Which train should we take -from Shinano Omachi at 5PM.- we are going back to Toyama Station .
Day 6 At Toyama.
Day 7. Travel from Toyama to Takayama Station
Day 9. Travel from Takayama station to Osaka .Stay back
near Fukushima station.
Day 10. to Day 13.Travel from Osaka to Nara,Universal Studio
Do Takashi advise – we use ICOCA ??
Day 14. Kansai Airport. we must reach airport 8am
Fast Train??
Thank you.
Hope for your advise.
Joane.
Hi Joane,
JR pass 7 days is your choice. You may start using it on day 4.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/japan-rail-pass-user-guide-how-to-use-jr-pass-to-its-maximum.html
And also you need to add Tateyama Kurobe option ticket for trip to Alpine route.
http://www.jrtateyama.com/e/
After alpine route, take a bus to Nagano, not Shinano-Omachi. Because you can catch Hokuriku Shikansen to get back to Toyama.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-departure-arrival-stations/stations-in-kanto/tokyo/ueno/hokuriku-shinkansen-direct-access-to-kanazawa-nagano-and-toyama-from-tokyo.html
You also can use JR pass to get Nara on day 10.
ICOCA is okay for USJ.
Subway pass or ICOCA or single ticket is your choice in Osaka. And there are some deals available between KIX and Osaka.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Dear Takeshi,
We are taking the Japan Rail Pass .7 Days. We have check 8.40am Osaka to Toyama Reach 11.51 ..May/2016/30 Departure.
Our JR Pass will cover for this trip..
Do we have to Reserved Seat…How do we Reserved a Seat?
On the HyperDia Search, shows. Reserved Seat Yen3550.
Do we have to pay the extra Yen3550 for the Reserved Seat?
Are they covered by the JR Pass 7 Days ..
Are they compulsory, or we can actually sit anywhere??
This is not a Peak Season, Right?
Do we have to Reserved for all this Seat on the following
Dates in advance, Might not be sure on exact time until
we reach the station..
May/2016/30 ..Osaka to Toyama
May/2016/31 ..Nagano to Toyama
June/2016/2 ..Toyama to Takayama
June/2016/4..Takayama to Osaka. Thank you .
Hi Joane,
JR pass covers reserved seat. You don’t need to pay extra. Even though it will not be peak season. But it’s covered by the pass fully and secure your seat. Why not you reserve your seat.
You can book at the reservation window that is called “Midori no Madoguchi”. Once you exchange your JR pass, you can book at any major JR stations in advance. Please see the link below to find more info.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/timetable-and-reservation/how-to-reserve-seat.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
I’m taking my Mom (75 years old) for one-week trip to Kansai this late October. Our planed itinerary is:
Day 1: arrive at KIX, moving to Kyoto
Day 2-5: staying in Kyoto, day trip to Nara (use one-day bus in these cities)
Day 6: travelling to Osaka
Day 7: staying in Osaka
Day 8: Osaka to KIX
To safe time on buying ticket for every single trip, I plan to buy ICOCA & Haruka tickets (one way to Kyoto and one way from Osaka) right after arriving to KIX . Is it possible, or you have any other advice? thank you very much for your help!!!!
Hi Xuong,
ICOCA and Haruka to Kyoto is a good idea. But I’m not sure Haruka is the best choice for back to KIX. If you stay near Namba or other subway stations, other deals may be better. Please see the link below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you!
No problem, Xuong.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
My husband and I are traveling to Osaka at the end of April until 1st week of May. We are planning to use the ICOCA-HARUKA package. Our planned itinerary as below:
Day 01 – Arrive at KIX at 9.30pm, taking train to our accommodation at Temmabashi.
Day 02 – Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, Dotonburi
Day 03 – Universal Studio Japan
Day 04 – KYOTO: Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion, Staying one night at Kyoto
Day 05 – Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Sento Imperial Palace, Nishiki market, back to Osaka
Day 06 – Shinsaibashi, Dotonburi, Den Den Town
Day 07 – Americamura, Den Den Town, Namba
Day 07 – Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka – KIX (departure at 11.15PM)
My questions are:
1. Since we arrive at 9.30PM at KIX, which ICOCA-HARUKA pass should we buy? One-way or round trip?
2. Which route whould you suggest for us to take from KIX to Temmabashi?
3. Which route would you suggest for us to take from Temmabashi to Kyoto on Day 04?
4. We are going to Kyoto early in the morning, which place is convenient to visit first, Sagano for the train ride or Arashiyama?
5. Since our itinerary is quite flexible, we welcome any suggestions for places to visit during our stay in Osaka.
Thank you in advance.
Hi Wardiah,
1,2. Since the last departure of Haurka is 22:16, I don’t think you cannot take Haruka. The best choice is single fare for JR rapid train to Tennoji and subway Tanimachi line from Tennoji to Temmabashi. The total fare is about 1300 yen. Please check the timetable and fare at hyperdia.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/timetable-and-reservation/hyperdia-perfect-guide-train-timetable-and-route-search-engine.html
3. Take subway Tanimachi line to Higashi-Umeda and Hankyu railway from Umeda to Arashiyama.
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
4. First of all, you must book Sagano train. You will travel in one of the busiest period that is called “Golden Week”. So it depends on which time you will get the space. You can book at any major JR station’s reservation window that is called “Midori no Madoguchi”. I recommend you to book as early as possible after you arrive in Japan.
All places will be busy in this period. I show the calendar of this period in the link below. Please make sure which day is weekday and holiday.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/timetable-and-reservation/2016-busiest-period-to-travel-by-train-tips-to-book-your-seat-in-even-busy-period.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi again Takeshi,
Thank you so much for the prompt reply. Glad that you inform us about the holidays, the information is really helpful. I have a few more questions to ask below:
1. If we take the single/one-way Icoca-Haruka pass, can it be used from Tennoji to Kansai Airport on our departure day?
2. What is the average distance and time to transfer between platform from the airport? Since we arrive quite late we are concerned if we miss the train transfers.
3. Is there any special discount pass / ticket for places like Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building and Osaka Kaiyukan?
Thank you in advanced.
Hi Wardiah,
1. Yes, you can. You can purchase one way Haruka discount ticket at Tennoji station.
2. Please see the link below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/kansai-airport-transportation-guide-find-info-about-station-ticket-airport-bus-and-high-speed-ferry.html
3. Osaka Amazing pass and Osaka Kaiyu ticket are available.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-choose-discount-railway-ticket-and-pass-in-kansai-area.html#Osaka_area
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you very much for your help Takeshi. Really appreciate it.
No problem, Wardiah.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
My friend recommended me to your site, I’m travelling in Tokyo, was wondering should i get a pass or pay normal fee for the below route? I heard about suica pass for one day and can ride unlimited train ride – this can be use for all train ride?
Day 02 >
Tsukiji fish market >> Ginza >>Akihabara >>Asakusa >>Tokyo Skytree >> Kiyosumi-Shirakawa station
Day 03 >
Shinjuku Gyoen >> Harajuku >> Meiji Shrine >> Yoyogi park >> Shibuya >> Kiyosumi-Shirakawa station
Day 04 >
Doraemon museum >> ramen noodle museum >>Kiyosumi-Shirakawa station
Day 05 >
Kiyosumi-Shirakawa station >> Haneda Airport >> Osaka Aquarium >> Awaza
Day 06 >
Osaka Castle
Day 07 >
Spa World
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Shyanne,
Suica does not give you unlimited ride. It gives you convenience but not discount. Please see the link below:
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/suica.html
So Suica is good in case that you need to purchase single fare. It covers all trains even in Osaka. But if you need unlimited ride, this is not a choice.
I recommend subway pass for day 2 and 3.
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
And you can use Suica for day 4 and 5 to Haneda. I don’t see which airport you will arrive in Osaka but add single fare to get Osaka and add Osaka Kaiyu Ticket for visiting Osaka Aquarium.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/subway/trip-to-osaka-kaiyukan-aquarium-by-osaka-kaiyu-ticket-2.html
And Suica is okay for day 6 and 7. But if you intend to visit more on day 6 and 7, you may thin about using subway pass in Osaka too.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-choose-discount-railway-ticket-and-pass-in-kansai-area.html#Osaka_area
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thanks for bearing with me and answering my queries. I still have additional questions.
Q1: I will be arriving at Kansai Airport. Do I need to reserve seats, considering that I will be with my 75 year old mother and will be arriving at around 8pm. As for my return to my country, I will be taking a 10 am flight.
Q2: Are there luggage compartments in Haruka Limited Express both from KIX and from Tennoji?
Q3: What are the differences in the seats? How do I reserve?When do you suggest I reserve the seat for Tennoji to Kix?
Q4: Does the Kyoto Sightseeing Pass cover Arashiyama? If not, is it wise to buy a 1 Day Hanshin Tourist Pass for it?
Q5: Can I buy Hanshin Tourist Pass at KIX airport when I arrive? I like to buy all my passes all at the same time so that I will not have to line up everytime when I need to buy and use it.
Q6: What are the advantages of using ICOCA compared to buying single fares? Where can I use ICOCA? If I use Hyperdeia, how do I know that I can use ICOCA, with the route that it suggests?
Thanks again Takeshi for all your patience and assistance.
Louie
Hi Louie,
1. If you use ICOCA and Haruka or Haruka discount ticket, you cannot reserve a seat.
2. Yes.
3. The seat itself is completely same. I think non reserved seat is okay but if you really want to reserve your seat, you cannot use ICOCA and Haruka, and Haruka discount ticket. You need to purchase a regular ticket.
4. Yes.
5. Yes.
6. Actually ICOCA gives you just convenience. You don’t need to purchase a ticket one by one. But it does not give you any discount. You will spend exactly same amount as single ticket.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello,
I’m planning a trip to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Shirakawago and below is my draft itinerary. Am reading about the transportation lines and got very confused. Appreciate if you can advise on which is the best pass for me to get. We are 2 families of 2A and 2C (youngest 5yo and eldest 11yo)
Arriving KIX to Osaka, staying in Nankai-Namba area
Day 1 (22 Dec) – Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine, Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, Dotonburi, Hozenji Yokocho
Day 2 (23 Dec) – Kuromon Ichiba (Black Gate Market), Osaka Castle, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Day 3 (24 Dec) – Universal Studio Japan
Day 4 (25 Dec) – travel to Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkakuji Template (Golden Pavillion), Gion, Pontocho Alley
Day 5 (26 Dec) – travel to Kyoto, Nishiki Market, Tenryuji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Nijo Castle
Day 6 (27 Dec) – Shinkanzen from Osaka to Kanazawa to Shirakawago
1 night in Shirakawago
Day 7 (28 Dec) – Shirakawago to Kanazawa back to Osaka
Half day trip to Uji
Day 8 (29 Dec) – Day trip to Nara, Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kofuku-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Grande Shrine, Higashimuki Shopping Street
Day 9 (30 Dec) – Osaka to KIX
Questions :
1. Can the ICOCA and Haruka cover all the places that we intent to visit in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara area?
2. What are the additional pass that we need to purchase in Kyoto and Nara to travel to the places of interest?
3. I guess separate Shinkansen ticket need to purchase for round trip to Kanawaza and bus ticket to Shirakawago
Thanking in advise for your advice
Hi Karen,
First of all, you need to purchase Takayama Hokuriku Area Pass.
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
The following link shows you the day trip itinerary to Kanazawa and Shirakawago. But you can use this for 1 night 2 days trip too.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/1-day/sample-itinerary-of-day-trip-to-kanazawa-and-shirakawago-from-osaka-or-kyoto.html
You may start using this pass on day 3. You can get USJ and Kyoto by this pass from Namba. But you need to add Kyoto all day bus pass at 500 yen for one day because this pass allows you to get JR Kyoto station only. You cannot get other places by this pass in Kyoto.
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
For arrival day, Yokoso Osaka ticket is recommended.
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/yokoso.html
Osaka Kaiyu ticket is the best option for day 2.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/subway/trip-to-osaka-kaiyukan-aquarium-by-osaka-kaiyu-ticket-2.html
Nara is not covered by this pass either. Single ticket is the best choice. But if you intend to take subway to visit a few places in Osaka before you depart for KIX on day 9, you may use Kansai thru pass 2 days for day 8 and 9.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
If you don’t use Kansai thru pass, you can hop on Nankai railway from Namba to KIX, ordinary train at 920 yen (single ticket) or limited express rapi:t at 1130 yen by special deal:
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/tokuwari.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you Takeshi for your prompt reply.
I will go thru your suggestions and links.
No problem, Karen.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi,
It’s me again and this time we have sorted out our itinerary.
Would like to reconfirm the passes we should get.
Day 1
Arrival, KIX to Osaka Temmabashi Otemae Toyoko-Inn
Explore surrounding and Dotonburi area
Ques : I’m not able to find the route to the hotel
Day 2
USJ
Day 3
Osaka Castle, Kuromon Ichiba, Kaiyukan
Day 4
Daytrip to Kyoto : Fushimi Inari, Koyomizudera, Hokanji, Gion
Back to Osaka
Day 5
Daytrip to Kyoto : Arashiyama, Sagano Romantic train (maybe) Kinkakuji, Nishiki Market, Nijo Castle
Back to Osaka
Day 6
Continue half day in Kyoto if can’t cover all in Day 5
Osaka or Kyoto daytrip to Nara : Todaji, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Grand Shrine, Higasahimuki Shopping Street
Back to Osaka
Day 7
Daytrip to Nara and Uji if time permits
Back to Osaka
Day 8
Osaka to KIX
As you can see my base is in Osaka.
Appreciate if you can advise if purchasing ICOCA + Haruka is sufficient.
Haruka is for round trip KIX-Osaka-KIX, did I get this right?
Thanks.
Hi Karen,
I think your hotel is located near Temmabashi station. You can get there by subway Tanimachi line.
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/library/english/img/guide_english2.pdf
Yokoso Osaka ticket is still the best choice. You can use ICOCA and Haruka too. But in this case, you can take Haruka to Tennoji and transfer to subway Tanimachi line there. You have to use ICOCA to take subway.
For other part of trip, I think I have already explained in the previous reply. Please refer it.
You may find some more info at the link below too:
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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com