As the name tells you, Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass covers Kansai area (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Himeji, Wakayama), Hiroshima and many places between these, such as Okayama, Kurashiki. But the coverage is much bigger. This pass covers even Takamatsu in Shikoku, Kinosaki Onsen, Amanohashidate, Kii-Katsuura, Shingu.
I would like to share the information about Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass in this post.
Coverage Area
This pass covers whole part of Kansai area, such as Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kansai Airport, Himeji and Wakayama. And it includes Sanyo Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Hiroshima. And also this pass includes the conventional lines to Takamatsu in Shikoku, Kinosaki Onsen, Shirahama and Shingu in Kii peninsula, Hikone and Tsuruga too. Of course you can access Himeji, Okayama, Kurashiki, Onomichi, Miyajima and Iwakuni too. In addition, this pass covers Kyoto Tango Railway to Amanohashidate. It is a big benefit to visit northern Hyogo region.
If you want to access to Hakata, Yamaguchi or Sanin area, Sanyo Sanin Area Pass is recommended. But it does not include Kinosaki and Kii area.
JR West will also release Hiroshima Yamaguchi Area Pass too. If you need an access to Hiroshima from Hakata side, this pass will be suitable for you.
Other part of Japan, such as Hokkaido, Tokyo, Nagoya, Kanazawa, Takayama, most part of Shikoku and Kyushu are not covered by this Pass. So if you intend to travel throughout Japan or travel to Tokyo, Hokkaido or Kyushu, Japan Rail Pass is maybe more suitable for you.
*Osaka – Tokyo one way trip is not enough to use JR Pass. Please see the the post, Japan Rail Pass user guide. How to use JR Pass to its maximum.
Valid trains, bus services, routes and class
All daytime trains in coverage area are covered. But reserved seat fee is NOT included as well. You have to take non reserved ordinary seat. Most of limited express and Shinkansen trains have non reserved seat. And Green seat is not covered fully either. If you want to take Green seat, this pass covers base fare only. You have to full of surcharge and Green seat fare.
Overnight option is not available in the coverage area. There are two overnight trains, Sunrise Izumo and Sunrise Seto are depart/arrive in the coverage area. But these trains run to Tokyo. You cannot stay overnight in the coverage ares by this pass.
Miyajima ferry is also covered. You have no problem to access to very popular World Heritage Miyajima.
As of mid April 2017, this pass started to cover JR bus in Kyoto, Fukui and Hiroshima. In Hiroshima, there are some bus routes which are covered by this pass. Especially Hiroshima sightseeing loop bus “Meipuru-pu” is very very useful. You can get most of popular spots in Hiroshima by this bus. Please see the link below:
Hiroshima sightseeing bus Meipuru-pu
In Kyoto, you can get Ryoan-ji temple, Kitano-Tenmangu shrine, Takao area via Nijo. This pass also covers Obamba to/from Omi-Imazu bus service and Sonobe to/from Fukuchiyama bus service.
This pass also started to cover Kyoto Tango railway as of mid April, 2017. You can get Amanohashidate, Miyazu without any extra charge.
When you use this deal, there are a few exceptions. You have to know that before you choose this deal. Please see the below to get the detailed information.
The Tokaido Shinkansen among Maibara, Kyoto and Shin-Osaka
Even though it is in the coverage area, you cannot take Shinkansen train in this segment. Because Tokaido Shinkansen belongs to other JR company, JR Central. It is same JR Group company and many trains go through both areas each other. But technically it is different company. Therefore this deal cannot include this Shinkansen segment. When you depart from Kyoto or Maibara and take Shinkansen, you have to take Special Rapid Service to Shin-Osaka and then transfer to Shinkansen train there.
Hotels in Hiroshima
Hotels in Okayama
Price, eligibility and how to purchase
This pass is available for temporary visitor only. If you are resident, you can’t purchase it.
JR West is the first company that has different price tag for same product. Please see the below:
Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass 5-day
| Purchasing from the travel agent overseas (Before arrival) | Purchasing from JR West online (Before arrival) | Purchasing from JR West station (After arrival) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 13,700 yen | 14,500 yen | 14,700 yen |
| Child (6-11 years old) | 6,850 yen | 7,250 yen | 7,350 yen |
As you have seen, you can purchase this pass after you arrive in Japan. But you have to pay 1000 yen more.
If you want to purchase this pass at the lowest rate, you have to purchase it at authorized travel agents before you come to Japan. You can find the dealers list and exchange location at the link below:
JR West Rail Pass Dealer’s list
You also can purchase this pass online through JR West official site. But the price is not much cheaper than the price which is sold at the station.
Valid period
It is valid for 5 days. One day means midnight to midnight, technically 0:00 to 23:59. So try to start in the morning. It does not make sense to start to use in the evening.
You can purchase this pass only once per visit if you purchase online or inside Japan. If you purchase it at authorized agents outside Japan, you can purchase as many as you want. If you need more coverage, please think about combining with other deals in Kansai area, like Kansai Thru Pass or Kansai Area Pass or pick up other deals, like Japan Rail Pass.
Compare to single fares
Base fare and surcharge for the major segments are the following. Please compare the price of Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass and these fares. If you use Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass, these following fare, both base fare and surcharge, are covered.
*All surcharges in the following table are non reserved seat rate.
| Segment | Base fare | Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| Osaka – Kyoto | 560 yen | – |
| Osaka – Sannomiya (Kobe) | 410 yen | – |
| Osaka – Nara | 800 yen | – |
| Kyoto – Nara | 710 yen | – |
| Osaka – Himeji | 1490 yen | 1730 yen |
| Osaka – Kansai Airport | 1190 yen | 970 yen |
| Osaka – Okayama | 3020 yen | 2480 yen |
| Osaka – Hiroshima | 5620 yen | 4090 yen |
| Osaka – Miyajimaguchi | 5940 yen | 4090 yen |
| Hiroshima – Miyajimaguchi | 410 yen | – |
| Miyajimaguchi – Miyajima (Ferry) | 180 yen | – |
| Osaka – Kinosaki Onsen | 3350 yen | 1730 yen |
| Osaka – Shirahama | 3350 yen | 1730 yen |
| Osaka – Shingu | 4750 yen | 1940 yen |
*The rate is varied by the season.
As you see, Osaka-Hiroshima one way fare and surcharge total amount is 9,710 yen. So if you have round trip on this segment, it is pay off easily.
Assessment
I believe this deal will be fit to many traveller’s itinerary who stay in Kansai area. If you have a plan to go to Hiroshima when you stay in Kansai area, this pass is the best choice. Hiroshima can be visited as day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.
Day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima from Osaka/Kyoto
I strongly recommend you to stay in Kinosaki Onsen and Shirahama. But these destinations can be accessed as day trip too.
There are so many ways to use this deal. I hope you enjoy in Kansai and Hiroshima area by this deal.
Comments
Hello!
Wonderful site! But I’m a little confused… Just wondering, how do I differentiate Tokaido Shinkansen from Sanyo Shinkansen?
Because I will am travelling from Osaka -> Kyoto -> Hiroshima -> Osaka… So what trains should I take for my Osaka -> Kyoto -> Hiroshima segment?
Hi Jeslyn,
Actually you cannot find the difference between Sanyo Shinkansen and Tokaido Shinkansen when you are in Shin-Osaka. Many trains go through from Tokaido to Sanyo or versa. Both look same. However these Shinkansen lines belong to different companies.
If you use Kansai Hiroshima area pass, you cannot take Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Kyoto. You need to take Haruka, Special rapid or other trains.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kansai-airport-limited-express-haruka.html
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/rapid-service/special-rapid-service.html
You may take Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Hiroshima only. So when you go to Hiroshima from Kyoto, you need to change trains at Shin-Osaka.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks for your reply Takeshi San!
Haruka and special rapid is covered by the Hiroshima pass yeah?
So just to double check, it make sense for me to buy Kansai Hiroshima Pass with the following itinerary right?
Day 1: KIX -> Osaka (Umeda)
Day 2 (Activate pass): Osaka (Umeda) -> Kyoto
Day 3: Uji day trip from Kyoto
Day 4: Kyoto -> Hiroshima & Miyajima
Day 5: Hiroshima -> Kobe -> Osaka (Namba)
Day 6: Wakayama day trip from Osaka
Day 7: Shopping around downtown Osaka
Day 8: USJ
Hi Jeslyn san,
You can take Haruka or special rapid by Kansai Hiroshima area pass. Haruka is more recommended because special rapid is always crowded.
Kansai Hiroshima area pass is the best choice.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi san,
First of all, great website with lots of info! 🙂
We’re planning to go to Japan from March 29 – April 10, and here’s our current itinerary:
Day 1 : KIX (9am) —> Osaka (stay at Tennoji area)
Day 2 : Osaka
Day 3 : Osaka
Day 4 : Osaka (Kobe & Himeji day trip) | Activate 5D KH pass
Day 5 : Osaka -> stay at Hiroshima + Miyajima
Day 6 : Hiroshima -> Kobe -> stay at Arima onsen
Day 7 : Arima onsen -> stay at Kyoto | shinkansen from Kobe to Shin-osaka and switch to local train I think?
Day 8 : Kyoto (Nara / Uji day trip) | last day of 5D KH pass
Day 9 : Kyoto
Day 10 : Kyoto
Day 11 : Kyoto -> Osaka (stay at Shinsaibashi area)
Day 12 : Osaka (Universal Studio)
Day 13 : Osaka -> KIX (10pm)
I’m planning to get the ICOCA-Haruka round trip (4200 yen) for the trip from KIX to Osaka and back.
And the 5D Kansai-Hiroshima pass for day 4 – 8 part of the itinerary.
I’ve tried to squeeze all the non Osaka/Kyoto parts of the trip into the 5 day KH pass limit.
We’re choosing Arima because it’s nearer/faster to reach, but will it work also if we pick Kinosaki onsen instead?
And I wanted to put Kurashiki somewhere in that 5 days but I’m not sure if we’ll have enough time.
Will these be advisable or are there better alternatives?
Also as I understand it, the KH pass can only be used on non reserved trains.
Is March 29 – April 10 generally a busy period for travel in Japan? I’m a little bit concerned (we’re travelling with my parents) if we can get seats on the Shinkansen for Osaka – Hiroshima.
I haven’t planned much for the local Osaka/Kyoto part of the trip. Will it be advisable to get the local tourist passes?
Thank you!
Ridwan
Hi Ridwan san,
ICOCA & Haruka and Kansai Hiroshima pass are good choice. You can start using from day 4 as you think. You can use other deals in Osaka and Kyoto. 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/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-kyoto.html
You can put Kinosaki onsen. Arima is much closer but if you go to Arima, you need to pay for taking bus from Shin-Kobe. If you go to Kinosaki, it’s covered fully. If you go to Kinosaki, the trip time is about 3.5 hours. You can get Kinosaki Onsen from either Himeji or Shin-Osaka. There are limited express Hamakaze running Himeji to Kinosaki onsen. But this train does not run frequently. Limited express Konotori runs between Shin-Osaka and Kinosaki Onsen frequently. Other limited express train “Kinosaki” runs between Kinosaki Onsen and Kyoto. So you can get Kyoto from Kinosaki Onsen easily.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/sanin-area-train-access-guide-how-to-access-to-kinosaki-izumo-matsue-tottori-and-other-major-cities-in-sanin-area.html
Please use hyperdia to find the best schedule:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/timetable-and-reservation/hyperdia-perfect-guide-train-timetable-and-route-search-engine.html
Your traveling period is spring break in Japan. It will be a bit busier than usual. Please see the link below to get some tips about non reserved seat:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/travel-tips/reserved-seat-vs-non-reserved-seat-how-to-get-a-seat-on-non-reserved-car.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you for the reply Takeshi san!
I will take a look at the links!
Hmm 3.5 hours to reach Kinosaki is quite long. I’d need to discuss with my family first.
I do hear that Kinosaki is more atmospheric for onsen town compared to Arima, but is it ok for just 1 night stay?
If we’re going Arima, I think we’ll be taking the train instead of bus from Kobe, hopefully a little bit faster.
I’ll give you an update once we’ve got the Osaka/Kyoto destinations more planned out!
Cheers!
Ridwan
Hi Ridwan san,
1 night stay is okay if you go to Kinosaki.
If you take a train to Arima, you need to change trains twice.
Shin Kobe – Tanigami – Arimaguchi – Arima onsen
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
Actually the bus is more convenient.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Sorry to bother you again!
We have decided to go to Kinosaki onsen instead of Arima; I think it’d be more exciting as none of us has been there before.
Anyway, so the itinerary would be like this now:
Apr 02, Day 5 : Osaka -> stay at Hiroshima + Miyajima
Apr 03, Day 6 : Hiroshima -> Kinosaki Onsen (via Himeji)
Apr 04, Day 7 : Kinosaki onsen -> stay at Kyoto
And so I would like to ask regarding unreserved seats in the trains.
Having read your provided links, my understanding is that we would have to pay the whole reserved seat fee if we want a reserved seat.
For example, checking at Hyperdia, from Himeji to Kinosaki onsen riding on the Hamakaze, it would incure an additional 1060 yen if we were to get reserved seat.
My question is, if we are to take the unreserved train, considering the high season, are they usually filled up around that time? (early April)
If so, do you know if we are allowed to stand on the Hamakaze or Kinosaki trains if the seats are filled, or are they seated only trains? I might get the reserved seats for my parents, but my siblings and I can stand :).
I know we can stand on the Shinkansen, and from Osaka to Hiroshima considering Shin-Osaka is the starting station, it shouldn’t be hard to secure seats if we go earlier I think?
Thank you for your time!
Ridwan
Hi Ridwan san,
I think Hamakaze will be busy. But you can stand up if all seats are occupied.
As I checked hyperdia, reserved seat fee is 1920 yen. If you want to take a reserved seat, you have to pay this amount.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks again Takeshi for your prompt reply and useful links.
For Day 8 and 9: regular ticket is enough as I stay nearby Shin-Imamiya.
No worries, Lukeman.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello Takeshi-san,
I would like to have your advice on the best rail pass for my plan below.
Day 1: KIX to Kobe to Himeji
Day 2: Himeji – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Hiroshima
Day 3: Hiroshima – Okunoshima (tentative) – Kyoto
Day 4: Kyoto
Day 5: Kyoto
Day 6: Kyoto – Nara – Osaka
Day 7: Osaka (USJ)
Day 8: Osaka – Himeji – Osaka
Day 9: KIX – Home
Thank you in advance
Hi Lukeman san,
You may use Kansai Hiroshima area pass for the first 5 days. Nara is in the coverage area of this pass. If you can visit Nara on day 4 or 5, it gives you more saving. In this case, you can visit the places in Kyoto on day 6 before moving Osaka.
You can add subway or bus pass in Osaka and Kyoto as you need.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-kyoto.html
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
I have no idea why you visit Himeji twice on day 1 and 8. If you want more time in Himeji, spend more time in Himeji only on day 1. And visit Kobe on day 8. This is more efficient way and saving cost. If you need to visit Himeji on day 8 again, you may add 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 / JPRail.com
Thanks for your prompt response, Takeshi-san.
Day 8: Osaka area. Not visiting Himeji. It was a typo.
I will consider your advice to visit Nara on Day 4/5.
No worries, Lukeman.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Would pass do you advice to get for my Osaka trip?
Day 6: Kyoto – Osaka
Day 7: Osaka
Day 8: Osaka (USJ)
Day 9: KIX – Home
Here’s my thought:
Osaka Amazing Pass (Day 6, 7)
Osaka Visitors’ Ticket (Day 8)
ICOCA and Haruka (Day 9)
Thanks again for your help
Hi Lukeman,
Osaka amazing pass is okay if you visit more than 3 attractions on the list. Single ticket is okay for day 8. You need to take JR which is not covered by Osaka visitor’s ticket.
I’m not sure ICOCA and Haruka on day 9. It depends on the station where you start to make trip from. There are many deals available. Please see the ink 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
Dear Takeshi-san,
Hi, I would like your advice on my upcoming trip. My itinerary is as follows:
Day 1: KIX to Osaka station
Day 2: Osaka to Hiroshima/Miyajima
Day 3: Miyajima
Day 4: Miyajima to Osaka
Day 5: Day trip to Himeji from Osaka
Day 6: Day trip to Nara from Osaka
Day 7: Osaka station to KIX
I intend to purchase the Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass for use on Days 2 – 6. For the trips from and to KIX, I will purchase the Haruka discount ticket round trip. Is this the best way?
Also, I had already purchased the Kansai One Pass on my previous trip to Osaka, I can buy the Haruka discount ticket only without having to buy another ICOCA, right?
Appreciate you advice, thank you!
Regards,
Joyce
Hi Joyce san,
Haruka discount ticket may be sold for the customer who has ICOCA or Kansai one pass. The official site did not mention this before. But now it says “if you present an IC card with ICCOA logo, you can purchase the Haruka discount ticket only”. I don’t think you can purchase it without ICOCA. So your choice is purchasing ICOCA and Haruka or single ticket or Nankai/subway deal:
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/chikatoku.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you very much.
No worries, Joyce.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Thanks for this wonderful site. Hoping you can help me, as you have helped others.
My family (5 adults, 1 child) will be travelling to Kyoto and Osaka next week. It looks like we can use the Kansai-Hiroshima pass for each of the following days on our itinerary (Days 1-5) or if there is a better pass/combo pass to use:
Day 1: KIX-Kyoto (on Haruka)
Day 2: Arashiyama
Day 3: Kyoto-Himeji (special Rapid train)
Day 4: Kyoto – Nara – Osaka/Namba
Day 5: Shin Osaka- Hiroshima/Miyajima (on Shinkansen)
Hi Camila,
Kansai Hiroshima area pass is the best choice for your trip.
You can take Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Himeji. You can get Himeji from Kyoto by Special rapid directly. But in most of case, Shinkansen is faster. And Special rapid is a sort of commuter’s train and always crowded. Shinkansen is more comfortable.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks so much Takeshi-san!!
No worries, Camila san.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
I am a bit confused about the trains I can take with this railpass. If I intend to go from Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima, can I take the train that says: TOKYO – HAKATA, SHIN-OSAKA – KAGOSHIMA-CHUO or SHIN-OSAKA – HAKATA ?
Which Shinkansen routes would the Kansai-Hiroshima pass be invalid on?
Thank you!
Hi Alde san,
You can take non reserved seat on any Shinkansen trains by this pass. You cannot take reserved seat. Please see the link below to find the difference between reserved and non reserved.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/travel-tips/reserved-seat-vs-non-reserved-seat-how-to-get-a-seat-on-non-reserved-car.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi san,
Hope all is well.
I plan to fly to Hiroshima, then directly take shinkansen to Shin Osaka. I plan to spend 4 nights in Osaka, then return to Hiroshima for another 3 nights.
Would appreciate your advice on following pls:
1) Whether the following plan works: Kansai-Hiroshima pass (KH pass) for first 5 days, then use local Hiroshima pass for last 3 days?
2) Does KH pass cover local subway in Osaka, eg. Midosuji line?
Thanks.
Hi Seah san,
Kansai Hiroshima area pass is your choice. But it does not cover subway and non JR trains. Please see the link below:
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
Takeshi san,
Thanks for your reply.
I am travelling with 2 young children (3 and 1 yr old).
Does JR train have designated luggage space?
Is it advisable to get reserved seats?
Do children get their own seats or do they have to sit on our lap (understand they do not need JR pass)?
Thanks.
Hi Seah,
Most of JR trains do not have luggage space. Please see the link below to get more info:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/travel-tips/baggage/managing-luggage-how-to-carry-your-baggage-on-board-and-how-to-store-your-baggage-at-the-station.html
If you use Kansai Hiroshima area pass, you cannot reserve your seat. Please see the link below to get the info about non reserved seat and reserved seat.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/travel-tips/reserved-seat-vs-non-reserved-seat-how-to-get-a-seat-on-non-reserved-car.html
Children under 5 year old do not need the pass. You can share your seat with them. If there are lots of empty seats, you may take it for children.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
I am planning to travel to the Kansai area. Here is my draft itinerary, appreciate if you can advise on the passes required.
Day 1 – Fly to Osaka Airport (Itami). Take the shinkansen to Hiroshima Station.
Day 2 – Explore Miyajima / Itsukushima Shrine
Day 3 – Hiroshima Peace Park and museum
Day 4-9 – Take the shinkansen to Kyoto. Explore Kyoto for the next 5-6 days.
Day 10-15 – Osaka
Can I check if the JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass for days 1-4 is suitable? Would you be able to advise what other passes would be suitable for my Kyoto and Osaka journey? Thank you.
Hi Charlene san,
You still can use Kansai Hiroshima area pass in Kyoto. You can get Arashiyama, Nijo, Fushimi and Uji by this pass.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
When you go to Kyoto from Hiroshima, you need to change trains at Shin-Osaka. You cannot take Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Kyoto. You can take other trains, such as Haruka, Special rapid:
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kansai-airport-limited-express-haruka.html
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/rapid-service/special-rapid-service.html
In Kyoto and Osaka, you can use the deals in 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-kyoto.html
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-san,
My coming trip is next week however I can’t decide and I’m not sure whether Kansai Hiroshima pass worth for my trip as per below. Could you please advise?
Day 1: KIX – Kyoto (overnight in Kyoto)
Day 2 – Day 4: Kyoto
Day 5: Day trip to Kurashiki & Himeji from Kyoto
Day 6: Day trip to Hiroshima & Miyajima
Day 7: Kyoto – Osaka
Day 8 – Day 11: Osaka
Day 12: Osaka – KIX
Should i add in more side trip to Nara or Okunoshima? Thank you
Hi Yvonne san,
As long as you have day trip to Hiroshima, Kansai Hiroshima area pass is your choice.
You may start to use this pass any days. But you should use it for day 5 to 7. This pass covers local train in Kyoto and Osaka. Please make sure where you go in Kyoto and Osaka. And then try to use this pass to get those places.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
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
You can add Nara very easily. You can get Nara from either Osaka or Kyoto. You should include Nara in 5 days coverage period. You can take JR train to get Nara by Kansai Hiroshima area pass.
You may get Okunoshima too. But it’s located between Kurashiki and Hiroshima. It’s too much to add this trip on trip to Hiroshima/Miyajima or Kurashiki/Himeji. If you add Okunoshima, you need to spend one full day. And also you must include this trip in 5 days coverage period of Kansai Hiroshima area pass.
You may find the deal for KIX-Osaka/Kyoto, sightseeing in Kyoto and Osaka in the links below:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-kyoto.html
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-san,
Thanks for your prompt reply. My tentatively itinerary is as below. I’m not sure whether it’s doable or not.
Day 1: KIX to Kyoto
Use ICOCA + Haruka discount ticket (Should i purchase round ticket? Because i will be taking return trip from Osaka instead from Kyoto)
Hotel around Shijio subway
Explore Kyoto Palace, Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market, Pontocho
Day 2: Sagano Scenic Rail, Arashiyama and surrounding
Day 3: Kiyomizudera, Higashiyama area, Gion
Day 4: Fushimi Inari, Uji, Nara
Start using the Kansai Hiroshima Area pass
Day 5: Day trip from Kyoto to Kurashiki (Canel area) & Himeji (Castle)
Day 6: Day trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima (Peace Memorial Park) & Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine)
Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka
Early morning check out hotel and go to USJ
Stay nearby USJ
Can i use the Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass to USJ?
Day 8: USJ Day 2
Check out hotel and stay around Namba subway
Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Dotonbori
Day 9: Umeda Sky Building, Nakazakicho, Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street
Day 11: Ikeda Ramen Museum, Osaka Castle, Americamura, Denden Town
Day 12: Check out hotel. Kuromon Market, Shinsaibashi
By evening to Kansai Airport
In Kyoto and Osaka should i purchase Kansai Thru Pass or i just use back the ICOCA? Or should i opt for Kyoto Bus day pass and Osaka Amazing Pass? Which one is more cost saving? There are so quite a few passes and i’m quite confuse among all.
Hope that you can help me out. Thanks
Hi Yvonne san,
First, you can use one way ICOCA and Haruka. Actually Kansai one pass is better option than ICOCA. You can purchase Haruka + Kansai one pass.
http://kansaionepass.com/en/about.html?info=1
You can use Kansai one pass when you need to take trains and subways in Kyoto. It covers city bus but don’t use it. You can purchase one day bus pass at 500 yen. You can get the worth of it by only 3 rides.
I recommend you to switch day 2 and 3. You should visit Arashiyama on day 3 and start using Kansai Hiroshima area pass on day 3. When you go to Arashiyama, take subway to get Kyoto station. Subway is not covered by Kansai Hiroshima area pass but you can use the pass to take JR train to Saga-Arahiyama. You may use Kansai one pass to take subway. Sagano train is not covered by any passes. You need to pay separately.
You can get Universal city station by Kansai Hiroshima area pass.
You may use Osaka amazing pass 2 days for day 9 and 10. Osaka Kaiyu ticket is your choice for day 8.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-osaka.html
You can use Kansai one pass or single ticket to get KIX from Namba. If you take express train, “Rapi:t”, there are some deals available:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Sorry that i have miss out Day 10. This is my correct itinerary as per below. I also revise and amend on the itinerary based on your suggestion.
Day 1: KIX to Kyoto
Use Kansai One Pass + Haruka discount ticket one way
Hotel around Shijio subway
Explore Kyoto Palace, Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market, Pontocho
Day 2: Kiyomizudera, Higashiyama area, Gion
Use Kansai One Pass because don’t have more than 3 rides for day bus
Day 3: Sagano Scenic Rail, Arashiyama, Kinkakuji
Start using the Kansai Hiroshima Area pass
Day 4: Fushimi Inari, Uji, Nara
Day 5: Day trip from Kyoto to Kurashiki (Canel area) & Himeji (Castle)
Day 6: Day trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima (Peace Memorial Park) & Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine)
Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka
Early morning check out hotel and go to USJ
Stay nearby USJ
Day 8: USJ Day 2
Check out hotel and stay around Namba subway
Use Kansai One Pass to Dotonbori
Hotel around Dotonbori
Day 9: Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Dotonbori
Use Osaka Kaiyu Ticket
Day 10: Umeda Sky Building, Nakazakicho, Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street
Day 11: Ikeda Ramen Museum, Osaka Castle, Americamura, Denden Town
Day 12: Check out hotel. Kuromon Market, Shinsaibashi
By evening to Kansai Airport by Kansai One Pass
For Day 10 & 11, it’s better to use Osaka Amazing 2 day pass or Kansai One Pass? Because i’m not going to many places and i’m not sure it worth using the Osaka Amazing 2 day pass or not.
Thanks
Hi Yvonne san,
You can use Osaka amazing pass on day 10 and 11. But you need to use Kansai one pass to get Ikeda for visiting ramen museum. It’s not in coverage area. You need to use Kansai one pass for Umeda to Ikeda by Hankyu railway.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks a lot Takeshi san. I just came back from Japan and it was a great trip. Because of your advise, I can manage my itinerary and transport smoothly. I did save on the transportation as well. Appreciate
Hi Yvonne san,
I’m happy to hear that! I hope you will go back to Japan and visit many more places near future.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi San,
Pls do advice on my itinerary and which pass to buy for transport… I chose to intentionally start my trip at kinosaki since I heard wonderful recommendations and to celebrate my anniversary ☺️..
My trip will start in 3 weeks time..
Day 1: kix— kinosaki
Day 2 : kinosaki — kyoto
Day 3:kyoto–hiroshima/miyajima
(Day trip)
Day 4: kyoto
Day 5; kyoto — Osaka
Day 6: Osaka — Nara (day trip)
Day 7: Osaka — Tokyo
Day 8: Tokyo– mt fuji (day trip)
Day 9: Tokyo
Day10:Tokyo–Akita(nyuto onsen)
Day 11: Akita
Day 12: Akita— tokyo
Day 13: Tokyo
Day 14: Tokyo— narita
Hi Christine san,
Please use JR Pass 14 days. This is only deal to cover most part of your trip. You may need to add some more extra when you are in city because JR pass does not cover subway, local bus and Non JR trains. Please see the link below to find the detailed info:
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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com