Kansai airport is the international airport in Osaka. It is the gateway to Kyoto, Nara, Kobe and Wakayama too. There are many ways to get downtown Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe. In this post, I will explain about the terminal of Kansai airport, the access route to major places in Kansai region, and how to choose the deal which suits your trip plan.
- Expected time to clear immigration, custom and baggage pick up
- Kansai airport terminal arrival level
- Access route by train
- Access route by Kansai Airport Limousine
- Access route by Kobe-Kansai Airport Bay Shuttle
- How to find the best way
- Osaka (Umeda)
- Namba, Shin-Imamiya, Tengachaya, Namba (OCAT / JR-Namba)
- Tennoji
- Shinsaibashi, Hommachi, Yodoyabashi
- Nippombashi, Nagahoribashi, Ebisucho
- Tanimachi 9-chome (Uehommachi), Tanimachi 6-chome, Tanimachi 4-chome
- Tsuruhashi, Morinomiya, Osakajo-Kouen (Osaka Castle), Kyobashi (Osaka Kanjo line east side)
- Shin-Osaka
- Universal Studio Japan (Universal-City station)
- Kyoto
- Kobe
- Nara
- Late night arrival and early departure
Expected time to clear immigration, custom and baggage pick up
It is very important to know how long you will spend the time to clear custom, immigration and baggage pick up. Especially if you will arrive in Kansai airport after 22:00, you must make the detailed travel plan.
My estimated time required is the following:
5 minutes – getting off the airplane
10 minutes – from the gate to immigration
20 minutes – clear immigration
20 minutes – baggage pick up and clear custom
5 minutes – arrival lobby to the station, bus ticket window, or high speed ferry ticket window
It takes one hour to get the train station, the bus ticket window or the ferry ticket window. Of course this time schedule is varied. It depends on how busy immigration and custom are. And also if you exchange the train pass, you spend the time more. If the train station ticket window is busy, you might have to spend 30 minutes. Please do not plan very tight schedule.
Kansai airport terminal arrival level
At first, I would like to explain about the arrival level of Kansai airport. This is the first place to see after you complete the immigration, the baggage pick up and the custom. You may refer the map of Kansai Airport.
The arrival level is located at the ground floor of the terminal building. At this floor, there are Tourist Information Center, Travel Desk, Airport bus ticket window and High speed ferry service counter.
In the middle of this floor, there is Kansai Tourist Information Center.
Information Center is for general inquiries and sells many passes and deals for sightseeing in Kansai Area. It is open from 7:00 to 22:00.
But if you have an exchange order or book online for Kansai Area Pass, Kansai Wide Area Pass, Nankai Railway train passes, you have to proceed JR or Nankai railway ticket office. These are located at the station. I will tell you later.
Access route by train
There are two railways from Kansai airport. Those are JR and Nankai Railway. The train network in Kansai area is very complicated. But you have to make sure which route the best way to your destination is.
Kansai airport station
You have to get Kansai airport station to take the train. I will show you how to get there from the terminal.
If you take a train, proceed to the second level and exit the terminal building. You will see Kansai airport station right away.
It is located just in front of airport terminal building. Overpass connects the terminal building and the station.
There are two railways, JR and Nankai Railway. These two railways have Kansai Airport station at exactly same location. Both ticket offices are located side by side.
If you intend to purchase or exchange JR deals, such as Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), ICOCA and Haruka, Kansai Area Pass, Kansai Wide Area Pass, Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass, Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass, Kansai Hokuriku Area Pass or other JR West deals, you can purchase or exchange it at JR’s ticket office. The ticket office is located at the left side of the vending machines. It was not in the photo above. It is open from 5:30 to 23:00. You may get the map of the station in the link below:
Kansai Airport station map (JR West official site)
If you would like to purchase or exchange Nankai Railway’s deal, such as Kanku Tokuwari Rapi:t Ticket or other Nankai Railway’s deals, you may purchase it at Nankai Railway’s ticket counter. It is open from 5:00 to 23:00. (first train to last train)
Ticket gates are located side by side.
And the platforms are located side by side too. But those two stations are not connected inside ticket gates. Please make sure which railway you will take, JR or Nankai railway.
Both railways has one platform each. It is very simple and find the track where you have to go easily.
Access to Osaka and Kyoto by JR
If you use JR deals, such as JR Pass, Kansai Area Pass, Kansai Wide Area Pass, Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass, Takayama Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass, ICOCA and Haruka, and other JR deal, you should take JR train from Kansai airport station. There are two trains running between Kansai airport and Osaka, Kyoto. Those are the limited express Haruka and Kansai airport rapid train.
Even if you do not use JR deals, JR train may be your choice. Please see the map below:
If you go to Tennoji, Nishikujo, Osaka (Umeda), Shin-Osaka, Kyoto, JR train is the best choice. And the you can choose the limited express Haruka or Kansai airport rapid train.
The limited express Haruka
All JR deals cover this train. Haruka takes you to Tennoji, Shin-Osaka and Kyoto directly. But this train does not stop at Osaka station (Umeda) because this train go through bypass line to Shin-Osaka and skip Osaka station. Therefore you have to change to a local train to Osaka at Shin-Osaka or Tennoji if you take Haruka from Kansai airport. It takes only 3 minutes to get Osaka from Shin-Osaka.
If you go to Kobe, Himeji and other cities to west from Osaka, you have to change to a local train at Shin-Osaka station too. If you go to Kobe and other cities to west from Osaka, Airport bus is better choice. I will explain you later in the post about Airport bus.
You can get some more information about the limited express Haruka in the link below:
Recommended deal – ICOCA / Kansai One Pass and Haruka
If you do not use JR Pass or any other JR train passes, this deal is recommended. This deal offers the discount ticket to take the limited express Haruka and IC card (ICOCA or Kansai One Pass). Please see the link below to get more information about this deal:
Recommended deal – Kansai Area Pass
This deal offers unlimited ride of Haruka and other JR local trains in Kansai area. If you arrive in Kansai airport early and make a day trip somewhere in Kansai area, Kansai Area Pass is better choice than ICOCA/Kansai One Pass and Haruka. Please see the link below to find more information:
Kansai Airport Rapid Service
If you want to use a train, but you want to save a fare, Rapid train “Kansai Airport Rapid Service” is your choice. The trip time to Osaka is around 70 minutes and the fare is around 1,200 yen. And Haruka does not go to Osaka directly but this train does. Please see the link below to find more information about this train:
This train is covered by any JR deals. You can take this train by ICOCA/Kansai One Pass and Haruka too.
Access to Osaka by Nankai Railway
Nankai Railway is one of major private railways. JR Pass and any other JR deals do not cover Nankai Railway trains.
Nankai Railway trains connects Kansai airport, Tengachaya, Shin-Imamiya and Namba. You can change to many Osaka Metro lines at Namba and Tengachaya. Especially if you change Nankai Railway trains and Osaka Metro at Namba, there is a combo ticket deal. I will tell you later.
Nankai Railway Limited Express Rapi:t
“Rapi:t” is the limited express train and the fastest way to get Tengachaya, Shin-Imamiya and Namba.
Namba is one of the biggest downtown cores in Osaka. You can get Namba by JR trains. However JR-Namba station is a bit away from the centre of Nanba area. You can find all Namba station locations in the post below:
And also you have to change trains at Tennoji, Shin-Imamiya or Imamiya by JR trains. On the other hand, Nankai Railway takes you to Namba directly and the fastest “Rapi:t” takes you to Namba in 35 minutes. This is the fastest way in all trains of both JR and Nankai Railway.
Rapi:t has two types of seats. These are Regular seat and Super seat.
If you use Kansai Thru Pass, only base fare portion (920 yen) is covered. You have to add the limited express seat fee 510 yen (720 yen for Super seat) on top of Kansai Thru Pass. But there are some deals available to take the limited express Rapi:t.
RECOMMENDED DEAL – Kanku Webtoku Ticket, Yokoso! Osaka Ticket
Kanku Webtoku Ticket is a discount deal to take one way trip by Rapi:t. You may use either way from KIX or to KIX. The price is starting from 1,130 yen.
Yokoso! Osaka Ticket is the combo deal which includes one way trip from KIX by Rapi:t and one day Osaka Metro unlimited ride pass. It is sold at 1,500 yen.
I picked two deals here but there are more. Please see the link below to find more information:
Nankai Railway official site – Discount Train Ticket
Nankai Railway Airport Express
Airport Express is a sort of local train. You can take this train by a base fare ticket only. The fare is 930 yen for Kansai airport to Namba, Shin-Imamiya or Tengachaya. The travel time is 45 to 50 minutes to get Namba. Kansai Thru Pass also covers this train fully.
Recommended deal – Nankai Railway and subway combo
There is no deals available to cover only Kansai airport to/from Namba. But if you take subway before/after taking Nankai Railway, you may use this deal. You can change Nankai Railway and Osaka Metro at Namba station. This deal covers whole part of Osaka Metro network. You can get any Osaka Metro station at 1,000 yen. You may use this deal to KIX too. Please find more information in the link below:
Nankai Railway official site – Discount Train Ticket
Access route by Kansai Airport Limousine
Kansai Airport Limousine bus is the best way if you go to Nara or Kobe. Because there is no direct train accesses. I will show you High Speed Ferry service to Kobe later. But you have to take a train to get downtown Kobe after ferry arrive in the port. There are many routes from Kansai airport. Please see the official site to find all available routes:
Reservation is not required to take Airport Limousine from Kansai airport. But when you take the bus to Kansai airport, reservation is required on some lines. You may find the information in the official site as well.
How to ride Airport Limousine
All bus stops are located at the ground floor. You can simply exit the terminal building and find the bus stop. You can purchase a ticket at the counter in the terminal building or at the vending machine or the ticket window outside building. There are lots of signages. You can find the bus stop, map, timetable and fare easily.
Access route by Kobe-Kansai Airport Bay Shuttle
Kobe Bay Shuttle is the high speed ferry service between Kansai airport and Kobe airport.
Trip time is 30 minutes from Kansai airport to Kobe airport. But you have to take the bus for 10 minutes to get the pier in Kansai airport. At Kobe airport, it takes 5 minutes between Kobe airport terminal and the pier by walk. You may take the train, “Kobe Portliner” to get Sannomiya which is the downtown Kobe. Total trip time between Kansai airport and Sannomiya is 1 hour 10 minutes. It is slightly faster than Airport Limousine bus.
How to ride Kobe-Kansai Airport Bay Shuttle
The ticket counter is located at north end of the terminal building. When you exit from custom, turn right and walk to the end of the building.
The bus to the ferry pier departs at the bus stop #12. It is located just outside of the ticket window. The bus ride is included in the ferry fare.
You may find the timetable and the fare in the official site:
Kobe-Kansai Airport Bay Shuttle official site
How to find the best way
There are many ways from Kansai airport. I will show you the best way to major destinations.
Osaka (Umeda)
You may take JR Kansai Airport Rapid train. It takes you to JR Osaka station directly. If you intend to buy ICOCA or Kansai One Pass, you may use ICOCA/Kansai One Pass and Haruka to Tennoji.
You can get Osaka by “Tennoji” version of ICOCA/Kansai One Pass and Haruka. This deal covers Haruka ride from Kansai airport to Tennoji. As long as you do not exit the station, you can go to any JR stations in downtown Osaka. You also can take Kansai Airport Rapid train from Kansai airport to Osaka or other JR stations in downtown Osaka. This deal is slightly cheaper than the base fare for Kansai airport to Osaka.
If you have lots of luggages, Airport Limousine bus is better choice. It is more expensive than the train. However you can store your luggage in the luggage room of the bus. And it takes you to Umeda directly.
If you want to save the cost, you may take Nankai railway to Namba and Osaka Metro from Namba to Umeda by Nankai Railway and Osaka Metro combo deal at 1,000 yen. This is most affordable way.
Namba, Shin-Imamiya, Tengachaya, Namba (OCAT / JR-Namba)
I explained the way to these places from Kansai airport in the post below Please refer it:
Tennoji
You can take either Haruka or Kansai Airport Rapid. It is direct way to get there.
Shinsaibashi, Hommachi, Yodoyabashi
You can take Nankai Railway to Namba and change to Osaka Metro Midosuji line. You can use Nankai Railway and Osaka Metro deal.
Nippombashi, Nagahoribashi, Ebisucho
I have other post which tells you how to get Nippombashi, Nagahoribashi and Ebisucho. Please see the post below:
Tanimachi 9-chome (Uehommachi), Tanimachi 6-chome, Tanimachi 4-chome
I have other post which tells you how to get Nippombashi, Nagahoribashi and Ebisucho. Please see the post below:
Tsuruhashi, Morinomiya, Osakajo-Kouen (Osaka Castle), Kyobashi (Osaka Kanjo line east side)
JR lines is easier to get these locations. You can take Kansai Airport Rapid or Haruka to get Tennoji. And then transfer to Osaka Kanjo line Uchimawari line (train which go to counter clockwise direction).
Shin-Osaka
The Limited Express Haruka takes you there directly. If you want to save cost, you may use Nankai Railway and Osaka Metro combo deal. Take Nankai railway to get Namba and transfer to Osaka Metro Midosuji line. Shin-Osaka is located on Midousuji line too. But the trip time is much longer and must change trains at Namba.
Universal Studio Japan (Universal-City station)
Airport Limousine bus is the best way. It is only direct way to get there.
You also may Kansai Airport Rapid to Nishikujo on Osaka Kanjo line. And you have to change a train for JR Hanasaki line at Nishikujo. Universal-City station is two stations away from Nishikujo.
Kyoto
You may take the limited express Haruka or Airport Limousine bus. Both ways take you to Kyoto directly.
Nankai Railway offers Kyoto Access Pass at more affordable rate:
Nankai Railway official site – Discount Train Ticket
This is much cheaper than Airport Limousine and ICOCA/Kansai One Pass and Haruka deal. However if you use this deal, you have to change the trains at least twice.
Nankai railway for Kansai airport to Tengachaya
Osaka Metro Sakaisuji line for Tengachaya to Awaji
Hankyu Railway for Awaji to Hankyu Railway stations in Kyoto, such as Kyoto-Kawaramachi (near Gion Shijo), Karasuma, Omiya
All trains are commute trains and may be crowded. You cannot reserve your seat.
Kobe
Airport Limousine is the easiest way and this is only way to get Kobe Sannomiya directly.
If you get Kobe by a train, you have two routes:
Option 1 (JR trains)
The limited express Haruka to Shin-Osaka and transfer to Special Rapid Service
Option 2 (Nankai and Hanshin Railways)
Nankai Railway train to Namba and transfer to Hanshin Railway to Kobe-Sannomiya
Option 1 is covered by ICOCA/Kansai One Pass and Haruka, JR Pass, JR Kansai Area Pass and any other JR deals.
Option 2 is covered by Kansai Thru Pass and Kobe Access Ticket. You can find the information about Kobe Access Ticket in Nankai Railway official site:
Nankai Railway official site – Discount Train Ticket
High Speed Ferry service is also available.
Nara
Airport Limousine is the easiest way and this is only way to get Nara directly. The following link gives you some more information about the access to Nara:
If you get Nara by a train, you have two routes:
Option 1 (JR trains)
The limited express Haruka to Tennoji and transfer to Yamatoji Rapid Service
Option 2 (Nankai and Kintetsu Railways)
Nankai Railway train to Namba and transfer to Kintetsu Railway to Kintetsu Nara
Option 1 is covered by ICOCA/Kansai One Pass and Haruka, JR Pass, JR Kansai Area Pass and any other JR deals.
Option 2 is covered by Kansai Thru Pass and Nara Access Ticket. You can find the information about Nara Access Ticket in Nankai Railway official site:
Nankai Railway official site – Discount Train Ticket
Late night arrival and early departure
As I mentioned in the beginning of this post, you spend one hour to get out the custom and immigration. And then, you have to manage the ticket to get Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe or other places to stay.
If you arrive in Kansai airport after 22:00, you may not be able to get the last train. The train schedule is varied by the day. But mostly, the last train to Osaka departs from Kansai airport before midnight. Please find the major train route for the late arrival in the link below:
Due to COVID-19, it may be operated on a schedule different from the normal timetable. Check the train schedule on Hyperdia.
Hyperdia perfect guide, train timetable and route search engine
If you cannot catch the train, your choice is Airport Limousine bus. There are some buses running to Umeda or Namba after midnight. Please see the official site of Airport Limousine bus to find the timetable and the fare:
For the early morning departure, you may not be able to get on the train. You can find the early morning train schedule in the link above, JPRail.com PDF timetable. In this case, the limousine bus is your choice.
For either late arrival and early departure, you can catch the bus to/from Kansai airport. But the bus depart/arrive at Umeda and/or Namba only. You may have to take a taxi to/from Umeda or Namba. If you stay in other than Namba or Umeda, please expect the extra cost to take a taxi.
I gave you tons of information. I hope that you have found all information which you need for the arrival and the departure in Kansai airport.
Comments
Hi Takeshi/ JP rail,
We are arriving from Kansai airport this March 29 and very confused what train line we are going to use? My apartment address would be in 1 Chome Shikitsunishi, Naniwa-ku orufea nanba Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu. We are told to go down in Daikokucho but upon seeing the map, it seems that we are overwhelmed by the number of train lines. What do you suggest ?
On our Day 2, we plan to go to Kyoto. From our apartment, what train can we use, cheper and faster.
On Day 3, from our apartment going to Universal Studios.
Appreciate your assistance. Thank you.
Hi Jay,
Day 1
Nankai railway to Namba and subway Midousuji line to Daikokucho
The following deal is the best choice:
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/chikatoku.html
Day 2
Subway Midousuji line to Umeda and take JR to Kyoto.
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/osaka-station-guide-how-to-change-jr-trains-subway-trains-and-other-private-railways.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/destinations/kansai-area/guide-to-take-trains-in-kyoto-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
Single ticket is only choice to get Kyoto and all day bus pass for sightseeing in Kyoto.
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
Subway Midousuji line to Umeda and take JR to Universal city
Only single ticket is your choice.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Have read all the info on the website. I will travel to Osaka in September 6/9/16 and plan to stay till 11/9/16. We will be staying around Namba area.
For economical reason, will nankai railway from KIX the best option?
Also if we do not purchase any of the special passes and take normal subway during our stay, will it be expensive for 4 travellers?
As we may only plan for day trip to Kyoto or Nara…it is ok to pay just the normal tickets?
Please give your best option and opinion.
Thanks
Hi Steven,
Nankai is the best way to get Namba from KIX. If you are okay with regular commute train, you don’t need to purchase any passes. Single fare is 920 yen for one way. But if you want to have more comfortable way, you can take limited express rapi:t.
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/railway/kix/fromkix/rapit.html
Kanku Tokuwari Rapi:t ticket is available for taking this train.
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/tokuwari.html
For sightseeing in Osaka, if you intend to take subway 4 times or more, day pass will be cheaper. In this case, Yokoso Osaka ticket is the best deal. It includes subway pass and rapi:t ticket at 1500 yen. You can use subway pass on next day if you want.
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/yokoso.html
Kansai thru pass is recommended for trip to Kyoto and Nara. If you visit only Nara, single ticket is okay. But in Kyoto, you need to take subway, bus or other local transportation to visit many places in Kyoto. Kansai thru pass includes everything.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi,
Here are my itinerary, please advice which pass should I get.
thanks
6-6-16
from kansai airport to shimoshinjo
herbis plaza
梅田空中庭院
7-6-16
shimoshinjo
osaka castle
universal studio japan
shimoshinjo
8-6-16
shimoshinjo
universal studio japan
shimoshinjo
9-6-16
shimoshinjo
kitanocho
hatobacho
promeda
shimoshinjo
10-6-16
shimoshinjo
kinkaku-ji
nishi honganji
shimogamo shrine
shimoshinjo
11-6-16
shimoshinjo
rinku premium outlet
kansai airport
thanks
Hi Ooi,
Please refer 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
I think Kansai thru pass is the best deal for both arrival and departure days. You may follow the plan in the link above for the rest of your trip.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
ICOCA single or round trip is useful for me?
Hi Ooi,
It’s okay. But you have to use ICOCA e-money from Umeda to Shimo-Shinjo. And you need to spend e-money or single ticket to get Umeda. And also Haruka does not go to Umeda (JR Osaka). You need to transfer to local train at Shin-Osaka or take rapid train from KIX to Umeda.
I recommend Kansai thru pass because it gives you unlimited ride but the choice is yours.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks,Kansai thru pass can go to airport?then I will only purchase Kansai thru pass
Yes, you can, Ooi.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
in this case, i should purchase kansai thru pass (3days) for 9-11june?
what should i buy for transport on 6-8june?
thanks
Hi Ooi,
I think 6, 9 and 11. Single fare (to Kobe and to Umeda to catch the subway) and Osaka subway pass are okay for the rest of the day.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Ooi,
I think 6, 9 and 11. Single fare (to Kobe and to Umeda to catch the subway) and Osaka subway pass are okay for the rest of the day.
Please read carefully the following links. All info that you need are there:
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/tips-for-japan-rail-pass/guide-to-take-trains-in-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
https://jprail.com/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-osaka-how-to-choose-the-best-route-by-train-to-get-the-major-spots.html
http://www.hankyu.co.jp/global/en/traffic/train_type/index.html#line
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi/JPRail.com –
I’m traveling in Osaka this coming April 2016, from April 17 to 20. I hope you could help me what ticket/pass to get. Here’s my itinerary. Thank you in advance.
Note : My hotel is in Osaka: Hotel Chuo Oasis, 557-0002 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Nishinari-ku Taishi 1-9-15 , Japan
DAY 1 – April 17
Arrival at Kansai Airport
Check-in at the hotel in Hotel Chuo Oasis
DAY 2 Osaka Day Tour April 18
Osaka Castle
Lunch at Endo Sushi
Umeda Sky
Dotonbori
Back to Hotel Chuo Oasis
Day 3 Kyoto Day tour April 19
Travel to Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Gion District
Arashiyama
Toei Movie Studio Park
Back to Osaka, at Hotel Chuo Oasis
DAY 4
Flight back to Incheon April 20
Hi Analou,
Day 1 and 4
Single ticket for KIX-Shin Imamiya by Nankai railway
Day 2 and 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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you so much Takeshi/JPRail.com~
No problem, Analou.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi
Still very confused after reading. I am going to Kyoto arriving at Osaka Kansai airport. I intend to make day trips to the surrounding area Kobe, Nara and Osaka from my base in Kyoto. I will be staying near Kyoto Station, Kyomachiya Ryokan Sukura Honganji from 11-22 Dec. What train pass should I get? Thank you.
Hi June,
You may use ICOCA and Haruka for round trip between KIX and Kyoto.
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
Kansai thru pass is recommended for Nara and Osaka. ICOCA e-money is towards to trip to Kobe.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
And you may use Kyoto city deal as you need.
http://www.insidekyoto.com/special-kyoto-bus-train-subway-passes
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi, I would like to check for few things as there is really a lot of passes to choose from and I’m not sure which are the best saving for my.
1st day: upon arriving at KIX, I will go to shin imamiya which is the nearest station for my stay.
2nd day: explore surrounding this area.
3rd day : I will go to Kyoto – Shichijo for 3days
6th day: stay at Shimanouchi for 4days and go back to KIX
Should I take Icoca & Haruka Round trip package? from my plan above, will I need to take Haruka for round trip? Beside this, I thinking to get Kyoto signseeing pass? what are the area/train are covered by this pass?
Hi Leravesyee,
Is Shimanouchi in downtown Osaka? If so, you may use ICOCA and Haruka one way. And you can use Kansai Chikatoku Ticket to go back to KIX.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html#Kanku_Chikatoku_Ticket
As you think, you can use Kyoto sightseeing card and you also can use Osaka subway 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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello
Very good articele, but I am still a little confused though.
I arrive at Osaka KIK airport and I will be headed to Himeji city. I was thinking about buying a JR PASS for the Kansai area. If I do buy one, would I be able to get a bus from Osaka airport to Himeji city without having to pay any extra for the bus? Will it be included in my pass?
Also I am a little confused about the whole pass system. If I do buy a pass but I don’t know when I want to use it, is it possible t o exchange it whenever I want and even one at the time if I think about buying two diffrent regional pass?
Thanks for the answer in advance
Hi Maria,
JR Kansai area pass does not cover any bus services. If you want to take direct bus service to Himeji, you have to purchase a regular bus ticket.
http://www.kate.co.jp/en/timetable/detail/HM
Kansai area pass covers train services only. But there is no direct train service from KIX to Himeji. Please find more info about train network in Kansai area at the links below:
https://jprail.com/destinations/how-to-transfer-among-kyoto-osaka-and-kobe-compare-japan-railway-and-private-lines.html
When you purchase a pass, you have to decide when you start using pass. If you cannot decide it, please wait until you are sure when you use it. You can use two different passes. But you have to complete to make your itinerary. There are lots of passes available. You cannot choose it without the detailed itinerary.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi,
Your site is detailed and very informative. Our family of 8 will be travelling to Japan on December and I would like to check if it would be more economical if we take a taxi (2 taxis, 4 persons each car) from Kansai Airport (arrival 7pm) to our accommodation near Yata Station? Is there a site to know the estimated cost for taxi or maybe you have an idea how much is it comparing to all of us to take trains?
I am also planning to take the Kansai Thru Pass for 3days but if our arrival is at night, one day will be wasted if we use the pass. Thank you for your advise.
Hi Kitty,
I think train is much cheaper than taxi. According to Kansai airport official site, taxi fare to Tennoji is 16000 yen per taxi. Yata station is a few stations away from Osaka-Abenobashi where is same location as Tennoji. So taxi fare is almost same as Tennoji, I believe.
http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/access/taxi/index.html
And also you may need 3 taxis because one taxi can accommodate 2 suitcases. If you have some more luggage, you have to take 3 or maybe 4 taxis. Trains is much cheaper. The best train route is taking JR limited express Haruka to Tennoji and transfer to Kintetsu railway Abenobashi station to take local train. You may use ICCOA and Haruka deal.
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
It does cover Haruka to Tennoji and you may use ICOCA e-money to get Kintetsu railway to Yata.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi,
Thank you very much for being very responsive and helpful to our questions. The taxi fare is really expensive… now I am getting confused on which pass to take for our planned itinerary this December. We are 7 adults and 1 child (8yrs) for this whole trip and we really wanna make it economical yet enjoyable. We booked in a Yata accommodation for 6 nights and 1 night in a Shinimamiya accommodation on our last day before we fly back home.
My friends who already went to JP suggested we go to Kyoto at least 2 days as Osaka has not much to do but we have already booked in Osaka and can’t amend it anymore. Please help me decide as per below? Thank you and looking forward to your expert advise. 🙂
Day 1 – KIX arrival 7:55pm Go to Yata accommodation, dinner
Day 2 – Day trip to Kyoto from Yata accommodation
Day 3 – Day trip to Nara or Kobe? from Yata accommodation
Day 4 – USJ from Yata accommodation
Day 5 – Rest, Osaka sightseeing from Yata accommodation
Day 6 – Checkout in Yata at 12PM Go to Shinimamiya accommodation, Osaka sightseeing again?
Day 7 – Shinimamiya sightseeing before checkout at 12PM? Go to KIX for flight at 8:40PM
*Day 4 and 5 can be interchangeable, as we don’t know how long we need to recharge after those day trips 🙂
Hi Kitty,
Everybody has different taste, so it’s hard to say which place is the best. But some says Osaka is much more exciting than Kyoto. Other says Kyoto is lovely and very attractive. It’s quite different between Osaka and Kyoto. Kyoto is very old cities and historical site. There are lots of shrines and temples. If you want to feel Japanese traditions and culture, Kyoto is better than Osaka. If you like amusement park, shopping and eat, Osaka is better choice. You will spend one full day at USJ for sure. Osaka castle, Dotonbori, Kaiyukan Aquarium, Osaka sky building and many more sites in Osaka. Please see Japan-Guide and make sure what you want to see and what you want to do first.
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2157.html
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html
If you visit outside Osaka, like Kyoto, Nara or Kobe, you may use 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
It covers almost everything. You can get all places in Kansai area by this pass from your hotel at Yata on Kintetsu line.
But this pass is too much for exploring in Osaka. Subway pass or Amazing pass or Kaiyu ticket is your choice. But you have to pay single fare from Yata to Osaka-Abenobashi. Because Yata is not subway station.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/subway/trip-to-osaka-kaiyukan-aquarium-by-osaka-kaiyu-ticket-2.html
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/foreign/english/Card.html
http://www.osaka-info.jp/osp/en/index.html
As I told you, ICOCA and Haruka is the best choice for KIX-Osaka transfer.
There are many deals available. But you may not be able to decide which is the best at this point. You have to make sure where you go first. And then you can find which one is the best.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi!
I would like to know on how we can get to Osaka from Kansai Airport using the Kintetsu rail pass wide?
I heard we can use it back from Osaka to KIX even after the 5 day validity
Hi Kyo,
You can use Nankai Railway between Namba and KIX. You can use it outside 5 days validity period.
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
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi! Cos I am on a wheelchair, 2 qu……….i) can I go from KIX to Osaka WITHOUT transferring? Any station is ok (but preferably walking distance to either Dotonbori or Osaka Castle). ii) This station must have a lift/elevator.
Thx! William.
Hi William,
Namba is recommended. It’s a huge terminal station but you can access there by Nankai railway directly. Most of stations in Osaka have elevators or lifts.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/namba-stations-guide-how-to-change-the-trains-among-nankai-kintetsu-hanshin-subway-and-jr.html
Dotonbori is closed to Namba. It’s located between Namba and Shinsaibashi.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com