As you probably have already known, the train system in Japan is very complicated. Especially in the major cities, there are lots of railways. You might not understand the difference between Japan Railways (JR), subways and private railways.
In Kansai area, such as Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji and Wakayama, many trains runs among these cities. You may be overwhelmed. But it is very important to understand the train system. This is a key to make a trip much more smoothly and save your trip time.
I would like to explain about JR lines and the private railway companies in Kansai area in this post. You may find which train line is the best for your trip.
Overview of train system in Kansai area
Please find the map below. It looks very complicated. I will explain you one by one.
I tried to make this map as simple as possible. But it still shows you many train lines. This map actually does not show all stations and all train lines. It shows you only major stations, major lines, transfer points and the station where is near popular sightseeing spot.
You have to pick one of those lines. It is complicated but I would like to explain you these train lines one by one.
JR trains
JR used to be Japanese National Railway. It has lines throughout Japan. In Kansai area, JR network has the biggest train network. I would like to show you only JR lines in Kansai area at the map below:
You can catch JR train right after you arrive in Kansai airport. You can go almost anywhere in Kansai area, like Osaka (both Umeda and Namba), Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Wakayama and Himeji.
If you use JR Pass, Kansai Area Pass, Kansai Wide Area Pass or other JR deal, try to use JR train as much as you can. JR has two kinds of railways, Shinkansen and conventional lines.
Conventional line’s trains in Kansai area
There are many train services on the conventional line network.
- Limited Express, such as Haruka (Kansai airport – Shin Osaka – Kyoto)
- Rapid
- Local
Most of you take a rapid train service. This is a sort of commute train but it stops at major stations only. This train service offers you a high speed transfer among cities.
Especially if you want to move among Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe and Himeji, Special Rapid Service is the fastest and most convenient train service on the conventional line. The trip time for major segments are the following:
- Osaka / Sannomiya (Kobe) — 22 minutes
- Osaka / Kyoto — 28 minutes
- Sannomiya / Kyoto — 50 minutes
- Osaka / Himeji– 1 hour 10 minutes
Please see the link below to find more information about Special Rapid Service train:
JR Special Rapid Service train between Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe and HImeji
There are many more rapid train services in Kansai area, such as Nara, Kansai airport and Wakayama. Please see the link below to get more information about rapid train services in Kansai area:
Kansai area JR rapid train network
The Shinkansen (a.k.a. Bullet Train)
Shinkansen is a high speed train service as you probably know. It is much faster than any trains on conventional lines. Shinkansen usually used for long distance transfer, such as Tokyo to Osaka.
But it can be used for short distance, like Shin-Osaka to Kyoto. It connects Shin-Osaka and Kyoto in 13 minutes, and Shin-Osaka to Shin-Kobe in 15 minutes. This is so fast. But if you leave from Umeda or other stations in Osaka, you may have to add some extra time to transfer at Shin-Osaka. Because Shin-Osaka is one station away from Osaka (Umeda). Let’s compare trip time for Osaka (Umeda) to Kyoto between Shinkansen and Special Rapid Service.
By Special Rapid Service
Osaka – 28 minutes – Kyoto
By Shinkansen
Osaka – 4 minutes – Shin Osaka (5 to 10 minutes for transfer) – 13 minutes – Kyoto
It may take 25 minutes even if you take high speed train, Shinkansen.
Shinkansen is not much faster than Special Rapid Service.
How about trip to Kobe by Shinkansen? In my opinion, it is not a good idea if you think about using Shinkansen from Osaka. It is same situation as trip to Kyoto. You have to move to Shin-Osaka to catch Shinkansen. And also Shin-Kobe station is one station away from Sannomiya by subway.
By Special Rapid Service
Osaka – 22 minutes – Sannomiya
By Shinkansen
Osaka – 4 minutes – Shin Osaka (5 to 10 minutes for transfer) – 15 minutes – Shin Kobe (5 to 10 minutes transfer) – 2 minutes – Sannomiya
View Downtown Kobe in a larger map
In this case, Shinkansen is slower than Special Rapid Service.
If you use JR pass, you can take Shinkansen for this short transfer because it is fully covered by JR pass. It is not worth taking Shinkansen for these short transfers by single fare.
Private Railways in Kansai area
There are many private company’s railways (=NON JR) in Kansai area. Actually these train companies offers more convenient train service than JR trains on many segments. I would like to show you all major company’s lines in Kansai area.
Kansai Thru Pass is very popular deal to travel in Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Koyasan and Wakayama. This pass covers these Non JR train services. If you make lots of trips by these private train services, you may use Kansai Thru Pass. Please see the link below to find more information about Kansai Thru Pass:
Hankyu Railway
Hankyu Railway runs Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and Takarazuka.
In Osaka, Umeda is the terminal station. Umeda is same location as JR Osaka station. All trains depart from Umeda to all destinations. In Kyoto, you can reach Kawaramachi (near Gion) and Arashiyama. This train service takes you to Sannomiya in Kobe.
There is no direct scheduled trains between Kyoto and Kobe. You have to change the trains at either Juso or Umeda. Juso is the junction of Kobe line, Kyoto line, and Takarazuka line. This station is only two stations away from Umeda. In the peak period, like spring cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons, the direct train service to Arashiyama from Umeda and/or sometimes from Kobe-Sannomiya are available. But you have to change the trains at Katsura usually when you go to Arashiyama by Hankyu Railway.
Hankyu Railway operates several kinds of trains, like limited express, express, local. But an express supplement is not required for taking any trains, even limited express. It is same category as JR’s Special Rapid Service.
The trip times for major segments are the following:
- Umeda / Sannomiya — 27 minutes
- Umeda / Kawaramachi — 43 minutes
- Umeda / Arashiyama — 45 minutes
I show you Osaka Subway Sakaisuji line in the map above. Because this subway train go through Hankyu Railway line. You may get Kyoto by direct service from many places in downtown Osaka.
Keihan Railway
Keihan Railway is another way to get Kyoto from Osaka.
At Osaka, Yodoyabashi and Nakanoshima are the terminal stations. But the primary station is Yodoyabashi. Most of express trains depart from Yodoyabashi. And this station is connected with Umeda and Namba by Osaka Subway Midousuji line.You can also take this railway at Kyobashi. You can transfer from JR Osaka Kanjo line at Kyobashi. In Kyoto, Gion-Shijo, Sanjo and Demachiyanagi are the terminal stations. Keihan Railway is most accessible way to visit Higashiyama area directly.
Keihan Railway also runs to Uji. You can transfer the trains at Chushojima.
Keihan Railway operates many category of trains, such as limited express, express, semi-express, local. Limited express train has one by-level car in each train set. It also has “Premium car” in each train set. It has much bigger and more comfortable seat.
Additional fare is 400 or 500 yen required to take a seat in Premium car. The fare is varied by the distance.
You can take all trains without any surcharge other than Premium car seat. This limited express train is same type of service as JR’s Special Rapid Service as well.
The trip time on major sections are the following:
- Yodoyabashi / Gion-Shijo or Sanjo — 50 minutes
- Kyobashi / Gion-Shijo or Sanjo — 45 minutes
Hanshin Railway
Hanshin Railway connect Osaka and Kobe.
Hanshin has two terminals at two biggest downtown cores in Osaka, Umeda and Namba. At Kobe side, Kobe-Sannomiya and Motomachi are the primary stations.
Hanshin Railway lines are very short but this railway connects with other railways at both end. In Kobe, Hanshin is connected with Sanyo Railway. Many express trains go through Himeji via Sanyo Railway. At the other side, Hanshin is connected with Kintetsu Railway at Osaka-Namba station. Many of trains go through Nara from Motomachi or Kobe-Sannomiya via Kintetsu Railway. This is only way to get Nara from Kobe directly. Major direct train services and trip time are the following:
- Umeda / Sannomiya — 30 minutes
- Osaka-Namba / Sannomiya — 45-50 minutes
- Umeda – (Hanshin) – Motomachi – (Sanyo) – Himeji — 95 to 100 minutes
- Nara – (Kintetsu) – Osaka-Namba – (Hanshin) – Motomachi — 80 minutes
Hanshin Railway operates several kinds of trains, like limited express, express, local. But no extra charge is required to take any trains.
Nankai Railway
Nankai Railway is one of major ways to get Osaka from Kansai airport. It also takes you to Wakayama and Gokurakubashi that is the gateway to Koyasan (Mt. Koya).
Koyasan (Mt. Koya) access guide
Nankai Railway has a huge terminal station in Namba, Osaka. Most of trains depart and arrive at this station.
Nankai Railway operates several kinds of trains, like limited express, express, local. Express train surcharge is required to take limited express trains. The name of limited express train and the trip time for major segments are the following:
- Limited Express “Southern” (Osaka-Namba / Wakayamashi) — 1 hour
- Limited Express “Rapi:t” (Osaka-Namba / Kansai Airport) — 45 to 55 minutes
- Limited Express “Koya” (Osaka-Namba / Gokurakubashi) — 80 minutes
- Limited Express “Rinkan” (Osaka-Namba / Hashimoto) — 45 minutes
There are express trains and local trains if you want to avoid paying extra. Actually trip time is not so much different. It depends on the distance. In most of cases, you will spend 10 to 15 minutes extra. But interior is very different. Your seat is reserved if you take limited express and very comfortable. If you take express without surcharge, it is a commute train. You may not be able to get a seat.
*Only limited express “Southern” has two types of seats, limited express seat and commuter car seat. Commute car seat is same as other commute train. This is non reserved seat and express surcharge is not required to take this.
Kintetsu Railway
Kintetsu Railway operates a train service in the biggest private railway network in Japan. It connects Osaka, Nara, Yoshino, Kyoto, Nagoya and Ise.
In this post, I would like to tell you about Kintetsu Railway network in Kansai area only. If you want the information about trip to Ise / Shima area, please refer the post below:
In Osaka, Kintetsu Railway has two terminal stations, such as Osaka-Namba and Osaka-Abenobashi. As I mentioned at the chapter of Hanshin Railway, Kintetsu Railway is connected with Hanshin Railway at Osaka-Namba. You can take direct train service between Kobe and Nara by Hanshin and Kintetsu. You may take Kintetsu Railway train at Tsuruhashi. You can change to JR Osaka Kanjo line at this station.
Kintetsu is also major way to get Nara from Kyoto. Kintetsu Kyoto station is same location as JR Kyoto station. You can transfer from JR and Kyoto subway at Kyoto station very easily. But Kintetsu Railway is connected to Kyoto subway at Takeda station. Some trains go through Kyoto subway Karasuma line.
You can use Kintetsu Railway for Osaka-Kyoto transfer. But it is a detour and there is no direct train services provided between Osaka and Kyoto by Kintetsu Railway. You have to change the trains at Yamato-Saidaiji. If you really want to use Kintetsu Railway, you can take this route. Otherwise it is wasting time and money.
Kintetsu Railway is only way to get Yoshino which is very popular to see cherry blossom. There is a direct train service from Osaka-Abenobashi. If you access to Yoshino from Kyoto, Nara, you have to transfer the trains at least once at Kashihara-Jingumae station.
Kintetsu Railway operates several kinds of trains, like limited express, rapid express, express, local. Express train surcharge is required to take limited express trains. Kintetsu Railway has a big limited express train network. But if you take Kintetsu Railway to get Nara from Osaka or Kyoto, you may not use limited express train because it is such a short ride. If you visit Yoshino, limited express may be your choice. The trip time for major segments are the following:
- Osaka-Namba / Kintetsu Nara — 40 minutes
- Kyoto / Kintetsu Nara — 45 minutes
- Osaka-Abenobashi / Yoshino — 85 minutes (75 minutes by limited express)
How to choose the lines and trains to Kyoto from Osaka
Departure station in Osaka
Where are you going to stay in Osaka? If you will stay in Umeda area, Hankyu and Japan Railway may be your choice. If you stay near Yodoyabashi, Tenmabashi or Kyobashi, Keihan is more accessible. If you stay in Namba or other location in Osaka, you need to take subway line or JR Osaka loop line anyway. Think about arrival station in Kyoto.
View Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe in a larger map
You can find the train network map at the post, Guide to take trains in Osaka. How to choose the best route by train to get the major spots?
Arrival station in Kyoto
Which part of Kyoto do you want to go? JR Special Rapid Service train is the fastest way to get Kyoto.
JR Special Rapid / Osaka – Kyoto 28 minutes
Hankyu Railway Limited Express / Umeda – Kawaramachi 45 minutes
Keihan Railway Limited Express / Yodoyabashi – Gion-Shijo 50 minutes
But most tourist spots in Kyoto are away from JR Kyoto station. You have to take a bus or subway to get there, such as Kinkakuji temple, Kiyomizudera temple, Yasaka Jinja shrine. Only Arashiyama and Nijo castle is accessible by JR trains.
If you want to go to Higashiyama or Gion, such as Kiyomizudera temple, Yasaka Jinja shrine, Philosopher’s Walk, Hankyu Railway and Keihan Railway are more convenient than Japan Railway.
If you are looking for information about all trains in Kyoto, please refer the post below:
How to choose the lines and trains to Kobe from Osaka
Departure station in Osaka
You have two options, Umeda (JR Osaka) or Namba. If you stay around Umeda area, you can choose from Japan Railway, Hankyu or Hanshin. Hankyu and Hanshin are cheaper than JR but JR is faster.
If you will stay in Namba area, Hanshin Railway is the best choice.
You can find the train network map of Osaka in the post below:
Arrival station in Kobe
Which part of Kobe do you want to go? You can go anywhere in Kobe by Japan Railway and Hanshin Electric Railway. Most of trains of Hankyu Railway go to Sannomiya only. If you are looking for the transfer to other area in Kobe, think about JR or Hanshin.
But Kobe is smaller than Kyoto. So it is not much different among JR, Hanshin and Hankyu.
You can find the train network map of Kobe in the post below:
How to choose a train service between Kobe and Kyoto
Only JR Special Rapid Service offers you a direct train service. It is the fastest and maybe faster than even Shinkansen. But as I mentioned to you above, JR Kyoto station is away from most tourist spots. On the other hand, Hankyu Railway can take you to Kyoto from Kobe. Hankyu do not offer any scheduled train on this section. But Kawaramachi station is located near Gion and Higashiyama. JR and Hankyu’s trip time are the following.
Sannomiya / JR Kyoto — 50 minutes
Sannomiya / Hankyu Kawaramachi — 65 minutes (change the trains at Juso)
Hankyu is slower. And you have to think about the location in Kyoto. If you stay around JR Kyoto station, JR is the best way. But if you stay in other area, such as Gion, you may spend another 15-20 minutes get JR Kyoto station. Hankyu may be better choice. If you go to Arashiyama in Kyoto, it is same story. Hankyu is better as well.
Assessment
There are many train services and it makes you confused. Please make sure the station where you want to depart from and arrive in before you go. And then, you can find which train you should take.
Comments
Hi Takeshi-san,
May i have your advice regarding the best pass for our osaka-kyoto trip this dec24-28.
Day 1 arrival from KIX (please advice best transfer to get to Chuo ward where we will be staying and we plan to visit Minami district since check in time is in the afternoon then at night will be taking the dotonburi cruise and watch the christmas illumination at Midosuji st known as the Festival of lights
Day 2 is a full day trip to kyoto but will be back to chuo ward in the evening ( please suggest an itinerary and modes of transportation around kyoto)
Day 3 is a full day to USJ from chuo ward and check out Tempozan Ferris Wheel if very near the area
Day 4 is a full day sightseeing to Kita district
Day 5 last minute shopping in Don quijote and namba area since i understand that these places are near chuo ward. Then in the evening we will transfer back to KIX
Also, is chuo ward a nice and safe place to stay?
Looking forward to your response since we will be on a tight budget we want to maximize our time and resources to make this a memorable christmas in Osaka.
Thank you!
Jessica
Hi Jessica san,
First of all, there are many stations in Chuo ward. You can take Nankai railway from KIX to Namba. And then you can access to the nearest station by subway. Please make sure the nearest station and find the route from Namba by subway route map in the link below:
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/library/english/img/guide_english2.pdf
You may use Yokoso Osaka ticket for arrival day.
http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/yokoso.html
Unfortunately I cannot make any itineraries. If I do so, many readers will ask me and it’s too much. Please see the link below to find the deal for trip to Kyoto.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/how-to-choose-discount-railway-ticket-and-pass-in-kansai-area.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
You may use Osaka amazing pass 2 days if you intend to visit many attractions on day 3 and 4.
https://www.osaka-info.jp/osp/en/
And lastly, please find the deal for trip back to KIX in 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
Hi,
We are a group of 4. We like to know what kind of passes should we buy to safe cost. Inter city plus buses to get around for sigh seeing.
Itinerary as follows :-
Day 1 Osaka-Himeki
Day 2 Osaka -Wakayama
Day 3 Osaka-Kyoto
Day 4 Kyoto
Day 5 Kyoto
Day 6 Kyoto-Osaka
Day 7 Osaka
Day 8 Osaka-Kobe
Day 9 Osaka-Nara
Day 10 Osaka
Thank you.
Hi Jenny,
Kansai thru pass 2 x 3 days are recommended for day 1 to 3, 6, 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
You may add other deal in the link below for day 4, 5, 7 and 10.
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
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,
We intend to visit the following places during our 4 days stay in Kyoto (near Kyoto station). In order to have a smooth journey, would like to seek your help in arranging the itinerary in sequence, example like places that can be arranged on the same day.
Places of Interest:-
1) Fushimi Inari
2) Shinnyodo Temple
3) Kitano Tenmangu Temple
4) Arashiyama :- Nison-in Temple, Nonomiya Shrine, bamboo groves, Togetsukyo Bridge
5) Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
6) Hirano Shrine
7) Komyoji Temple Nagaokakyo
As we will be using the Icoca/Kansai One Pass, base on the above itinerary, do we need to get the Kyoto one day pass (500 yen)? Is the Raku Bus cover under this pass?
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Annie
Hi Annie,
I recommend you to get the bus pass. You will take a bus more than 3 times. 3 ride is enough to get the worth of the bus pass.
You may use Kansai one pass when you take a train or subway.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi-san,
Thank you for the very informative advice your website has provided. My family of 5 are planning to visit Osaka n Namba is our base.
Day 1- arrival at KIX 2130 hrs and take the Nankai rapid to Namba
Day 2 – Osaka Castle, Osaka Aquarium, Tempozan Ferris wheel
Day 3 – Umeda Tower, Instant Ramen museum, Abenomics Harukus Observatory
Day 4 – Day trip to Kyoto
– Fushimi Inari Shrine
– Kinkakuji Temple
– Tenryuji Temple
– Arashiyama
– Nishiki Market
Day 5 – Day trip to Nara
– Nara Park
– Todaiji Temple
– Kasuga Grand Shrine
– Toshodaiji Temple
Day 6 – Day trip to Kobe
– Mount Maya
– Ikuta Shrine
– Kobe Harbourland
Day 7 – Day trip to Himeiji
– Himeiji castle
– Shoshazan Engyoji
Day 8,9 – USJ
Day 10 – Night flight home
– Nankai Train Rapid to KIX to deposit lugguage
– Rinku Town Premium Outlet
Your insightful and helpful advice is greatly needed and appreciated. Base on the itinerary above, what kind of pass should I buy ? Is the itinerary feasible?
Thank you very much
CSC
Hi Jennifer san,
Osaka Amazing Pass for day 2 and 3. But if you have child from 6 to 11 year old, you should have Eco card (subway pass) and pay admission separately. Amazing pass is not available for child. If you have child less than 5 years old, train fare is free.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-choose-the-best-train-pass-for-sightseeing-in-osaka.html
Kansai thru pass 3 days for dat 4, 5 and 7
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
Rokko Maya Leisure ticket for day 6
http://rail.hanshin.co.jp/ticket/otoku/pdf/ticket_en.pdf
Single ticket is required for day 8 and 9, and KIX-Namba return trip. And also Ramen Museum is not covered by either Amazing pass or subway pass. You need to add the fare to take Hankyu railway from Umeda to Ikeda. You may have Kansai one pass instead of single fare ticket.
https://kansaionepass.com/en/about.html?info=1
Again you cannot have Kansai one pass for child. Because if you use this card, adult fare is deducted automatically when you go through ticket gate. There is Child ICOCA card is available. You can use it for child. It’s same type of Kansai one pass but it does not offer discount at attractions. You may get discount by Kansai thru pass. Kids can use it.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi,
Myself and my sis plan to have 5 days free and easy within Osaka , Kyoto and Nara .
Our hotel based in shin Osaka , the tentative itinerary as below :-
Day 1 – reach Kansai airport , take train to shin Osaka and walk around whole day at Osaka
Day 2- plan visit Nara
Day 3 and 4 – plan visit Kyoto
Day 5 – tentative Kobe and Osaka
Day 6 – flight at 11am
Pls advise what is the most suitable pass to buy and use
Hi Lim,
Please see my sample plan in the link below. You will find the solution:
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hello, I just returned from a 14 day trip to Japan (7 days Osaka/Nara/Kyoto). My understanding of how to use public transportation was based on Takeshi’s website– very informative and accurate! A loud Thank You to Tadeshi!!!
My recommendations would be to use Google Maps to initially figure out the public system you might be using to get to the desired points of interest and at what time. For extensive options, learn how to use Hyperdia.
In Osaka and Kyoto, it was primarily the subway and bus system for us. We used Kintetsu Railway Namba to Nara, Keihan Railway Kyoto to to Fushimi. We only used JR for the commute Osaka to Kyoto and to use JR Haruka to get to Osaka/Kansai Airport. For flexibility and ease of use the Icoca card cannot be beat! For those coming from Tokyo, the Suica card can be used on the subways/buses and charged up on Icoca machines.
If yo have tight finances, look at Tadeshi’s comments on the area passes.
Hi Takeshi
Pls advise the train from airport to Namba. If I am also travelling to Kyoto & Nara, is there a pass which I can purchase? From Namba to Kyoto, which train should I b taking? Thks
Hi Ave,
Please see the link below to find the deal for KIX to Namba.
https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/kansai-kix/how-to-choose-the-deals-for-access-tofrom-kansai-airport.html
Kansai thru pass is more recommended for trip to Kyoto and Nara.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html
Please see the link below to find the route to Kyoto.
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
Hello Takeshi-san;
We (4 of us) are planning to visit Kansai area in June from 15 to 23. Below is my plan. We are wondering which pass to use and also if this plan make sense in term of schedule:
Day 1 : Land at 10PM catch train to Hotel WBF Namba Inari
From day 2 to day 6, plan to use Kansai wide area pass :
Day 2 : Osaka-Kyoto-Osaka
Plan to visit Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Shire, Gion etc then back to Hotel in Namba
Day 3 : Osaka-Arashiyama-Miyazu
From Osaka stop by Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge, then 3 hr train to Miyazu. Sleeps at Seikiro in Miyazu
Question : Does day 3 plan make sense or I should combine Arashimaya visit with Day 2?
Day 4 : Miyazu-Amanohashidate-Osaka (evening)
Day 5 : Osaka-Nara-Osaka
Day 6 : Osaka-Himeji-Kobe-Osaka
Himeiji in the morning and stop by Kobe for dinner and sightseeing
From Day 7 – Day 9 : we need your advise which pass to use :
Day 7 : Osaka Minami district
Osaka: Minami District and Tennoji
9:30: Travel to the Minami
10am: Explore Minami
Noon: Dotombori Area and Lunch
1:30pm: Visit Hozenji Yokocho
2:30pm: Walk through Doguyasuji Arcade
3:30pm: Visit Den-Den Town
5:30pm: Eat dinner in Minami
7:30pm: Check out the evening views from the Abeno Harukas 300 observation decks in Tennoji
Day 8 : Osaka Bay area including Aquarium
Osaka Bay Area and Kita District
9:30am: Travel to the Osaka Bay Area
10am: Visit Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)
11:30: Eat Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace
1pm: Travel from Osaka Bay Area to the Kita District
1:30pm: Explore the Kita District
3pm: Travel to the Osaka Castle Area
3:30pm: Visit Osaka Castle
6pm: Dinner in Kita, Minami or Central Osak
Day 9 : Namba and Dotonburi then KIX for 11 PM flight
Thanks so much for your advice.
Wanawit
Hi Wanawit san,
You can keep this plan. But if I were you, I combine Nara and Fushimi on day 5, and visit Arashiyama and other places in Kyoto on day 2.
You can drop by Arahsiyama on the way to Miyazu. It’s feasible. But you will have a luggage when you to go to Miyazu. I recommend you to minimize traveling with luggage. It makes your trip be easier. You can visit all places in Kyoto on day 2 and visit Nara only on day 5. But day 2 will be very busy. Most of places in Nara can be accessed by walk from the station. Nara is much easier to visit than Kyoto. Nara and Fushimi in one day is not such a busy plan.
I think you need to add only Osaka Kaiyu ticket for day 8.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/subway/trip-to-osaka-kaiyukan-aquarium-by-osaka-kaiyu-ticket-2.html
Singlet ticket is okay for day 7 and ( because you will stick around Namba in most of times.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Hi Takeshi- san,
Would like to hear on your advice on what pass should i purchase to cover the following places:-
Day 1: KIX to Osaka (Sakuragawa) – Is it reasonable to take airport limousine bus to Sakuragawa?
Day 2: Sakuragawa to Sannomiya and Himeiji – What pass to buy?
Day 3: Going to Kyoto station – What pass to buy?
Day 4: Visiting places of interest in Kyoto via Kyoto City bus
Day 5: Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, Nara – What pass to buy?
Day 6: Going to Mie from Kyoto Station – What pass to buy?
Day 7: Going to Wakayama from Mie, Ise/Nabana No Sato – What pass to buy?
Day 8: Tour around Wakayama
Day 9: Going to Osaka from Wakayama – What pass to buy?
I have some concern on the route to Mie and Wakayama
1. Should I go from Kyoto to Wakayama or Mie? Can provide the suggested route to both places?
2. I am planning to go to Nabana No Sato. May I know what are the suggested route from Kyoto or from Mie?
3. May I know what pass should I use to travel around Osaka, Kobe, Himeji and Mie?
At first I thought I can purchase Kintetsu pass but I come across Kansai pass. So now I am not sure which is the best option.
Thank you very much for your help in advance…….
Hi Yenn san,
There is no deals to cover whole part of your trip. You should use several kinds of pass.
Limousine is okay for arrival day.
Kansai thru pass is your choice for day 2, 7 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
You can use Kintetsu rail pass for day 3 to 7. But Kintetsu rail pass covers only Kintetsu railway. You need to add the fare to take other trains, subway and city bus. So basically you need to add city bus pass in Kyoto, extra fare to take JR trains or other trains to get Fushimi and Arashiyama.
When you go to Wakayama from Mie on day 7, you need to get Osaka-Namba by Kintetsu rail pass. And then use Kansai thru pass to take Nankai railway to get Wakayama. There is no deals for day 8.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thanks Takeshi for the advice.
No worries, Yenn.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
hi! how will i get to awaza station forom KIX. I have my jr kansaiwide pass. my hotel is located near awaza station. will be flying to osaka in june 5.
Thanks,
Christan
Hi Christan,
Please see the link below:
http://www.kotsu.city.osaka.lg.jp/library/english/img/guide_english2.pdf
Awaza can be accessed by subway only. It’s shown as S13/C15. In this map, you may see black and white dotted lines. This is JR trains which is covered by Kansai wide area pass. So you can get Bentencho (C13) by this pass. And you can transfer subway and JR trains at Bentencho. Bentencho can be accessed by rapid train from KIX directly.
https://jprail.com/travel-informations/how-to-get-kansai-airport-and-wakayama-kansai-airport-rapid-service-and-kishuji-rapid-service.html
You also can take Haruka from KIX. This train is covered and more luxury.
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/limited-express/kansai-airport-limited-express-haruka.html
But this train does not stop at Bentencho. You need to change to local train at Tennoji.
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
Hello Takeshi-san,
Thank you for all the wonderful information your website provides to us!! My family will be visiting Japan in June. I purchased a 14 day Japan Rail pass. I have the following questions:
1. Do you have any recommendations about my transportation plans?
2. How/where do I upgrade my reserved seats to green seats for the train ride Nagoya to Kii-Katsuura and Kii-Katsuura to Osaka?
3. Should I use the Limousine bus or the JR Haruka from Kyoto to Kansai Airport?
Day 1: Haneda Airport to Shinjuku station. Use Limousine bus
Activate rail pass at Shinjuku station, buy ICOCA pass for vending machines and future use on Kintetsu railway trains, subway/bus in Osaka and Kyoto. Book future reserved seats for JR trains
Day 2-5: Use JR pass to tour Tokyo sites
Day 6: Shinjuku to Kii-Katsuura
JR rail to Shinagawa station
JR pass to ride shinkansen Kodama Shinagawa to Nagoya
JR Limited Express Nanki Nagoya to Kii-Katsuura
Day 8: Kii-Katsuura to Osaka Namba
JR Limited Express Nanki to Tennoji station
ICOCA pass subway Tennoji to Osaka Namba station
Day 9: Day trip Osaka to Nara
ICOCA pass to use Kintetsu trains
Day 11: Osaka to Kyoto/Kawaramachi
Use JR Haruka or ICOCA pass for other methods
Day 12-13: Tour Kyoto using ICOCA or JR pass
Day 14: Kyoto to Kansai Airport
Thank you again for any assistance!!
Angeli
Hi Angeli
>1. Do you have any recommendations about my transportation plans?
Your plan is feasible. But you should try to use JR pass much more. Subway Namba station is more convenient. But JR has station in Namba too.
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
You can get there by local train from Tennoji. When you go to Nara, Kintetsu is much more convenient. But if you take local train to Tennoji and then take rapid train, JR Pass covers fully.
When you go to Kyoto, it’s same thing. You can get Tennoji by local train and take Haruka to get Kyoto.
The reason why I recommend you to use JR train many more is getting worth of 14 days pass. In my rough calculation, it’s hard to get the worth of 14 days pass actually. So try to take JR train as many as you can and try to get the worth of 14 days pass.
By the way, if you purchase IC card in Tokyo, it’s not ICOCA. It’s Suica or Pasmo.
>2. How/where do I upgrade my reserved seats to green seats for the train ride Nagoya to Kii-Katsuura and Kii-Katsuura to Osaka?
You can purchase extra ticket when you book your seat. Just tell a staff that you want to upgrade to Green seat. He/She will tell you how much it will be.
>3. Should I use the Limousine bus or the JR Haruka from Kyoto to Kansai Airport?
You should take Haruka. As I mentioned, you should take JR train as many as you can.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com
Thank you Takeshi-san for your insight and assistance!!!
Angeli
No worries, Angeli san.
Cheers,
Takeshi / JPRail.com