Getting Around Kyoto
Arriving in Kyoto
- From Tokyo: JR Hikari Shinkansen (2h 40 min); JR Pass holders use Hikari, not Nozomi
- From Osaka: JR Shinkansen (15 min) or Hankyu/Keihan limited express (40–50 min, cheaper)
- From Kansai Airport: Haruka Express to Kyoto Station (75 min, ¥3,630)
Getting Around the City
- Kyoto City Bus: Covers all major tourist areas. Day Pass ¥700; single ride ¥230. Use IC card for convenience.
- Subway: Two lines — Karasuma (N–S) and Tozai (E–W). Covers Kyoto Station, Nijo Castle, and Keage.
- JR Sagano Line: Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama (15 min, ¥240).
- Eizan Railway: Demachiyanagi to Kurama/Kibune (30 min, ¥420).
- Keihan Line: Demachiyanagi to Fushimi Inari (10 min). Also serves Osaka.
- Bicycle: Flat central Kyoto is ideal. Rentals ¥800–¥1,500/day near major stations.
- Taxi: MK Taxi offers English-speaking drivers and flat sightseeing rates.
✈️ Airport Transfer
Kansai International Airport (KIX) to city center:
- JR Haruka Express: Direct limited express train to Kyoto Station in about 75 minutes, around 3400 yen one way
- Airport Limousine Bus: Direct coach to Kyoto Station in roughly 90 minutes, about 2800 yen one way
- Private Transfer: Door-to-door car service to central Kyoto hotels in about 75 minutes, typically 20000 to 25000 yen per vehicle
- Taxi: Metered taxi to central Kyoto takes around 80 minutes and costs approximately 25000 to 30000 yen