Kyoto travel guide
Getting Around Kyoto: Transport Guide
The JR Haruka Express runs from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Station in 75 minutes for ¥3,630 with a reserved seat — the fastest and simplest option. Airport limousine buses take about 90 minutes for ¥2,800 and serve several city stops. Shared shuttles cost about ¥4,200.
Arriving in Kyoto
Nearest airport: Osaka Kansai (KIX) — 75–105 min by train or bus
From Kansai Airport, take the JR Haruka Express to Kyoto Station (75 min, ¥3,630 reserved) or the airport limousine bus (90 min, ¥2,800). From Osaka Itami, limousine buses reach Kyoto in 55 minutes.
Getting around Kyoto
- City buses cover most temples; a ¥700 one-day pass pays off after three rides
- Subway and private railways (Keihan, Hankyu, Randen) are faster for cross-town trips
- Bicycles are the local secret — the city is flat and rentals run ¥1,000–1,500/day
- Avoid rush-hour buses to Kiyomizu at midday; walk the Higashiyama lanes instead
Also in kansai
how to get around Kyoto — FAQs
How do I get from Kansai Airport to Kyoto?
The JR Haruka Express runs from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Station in 75 minutes for ¥3,630 with a reserved seat — the fastest and simplest option. Airport limousine buses take about 90 minutes for ¥2,800 and serve several city stops. Shared shuttles cost about ¥4,200.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.