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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Gion travel guide: Walking through Kyoto’s geisha district

Gion travel guide: Walking through Kyoto’s geisha district

July 8, 2021

Hanami koji street in Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the most well-known cities in Japan. It is the capital city of the Kyoto Prefecture of Japan’s Kansai region. For more than one thousand years, Kyoto was the Imperial capital of Japan.

At the city’s heart lies Gion, a center of the traditional arts and famed entertainment district. If you’re searching for a taste of traditional Japan, Gion’s flagstone streets lined with wooden buildings is a good place to start.

Gion’s entertainment district arose as a direct result of its religious sites . Food and lodging were needed by religious pilgrims traveling to visit these sites. Kabuki drama eventually became popular on the west side of the district. Today, it is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district . Contrary to popular belief, geisha , or geiko in the Kyoto dialect, are not prostitutes; they are “women of the arts,” entertainers highly trained in art, music, and dance.

How to get to Gion

Gion is located to the north and south of Shijo Street, from the Kamo-gawa River in the west to the Yasaka-Jinja Shrine in the east.

To reach Gion, use your Japan Rail Pass to reach Kyoto Station . Then, take bus number 100 or 206 to the Gion bus stop.

You can also take a local train in one of Kyoto’s private lines: the closes stations to  Gion are Shijo Station (on the Keihan Line, 210 yen to Kyoto Station) and Kawaramachi Station (on the Hankyu Line, also 210 yen to Kyoto Station).

Book your Japan Rail Pass now

Things to do in Gion

At the Minamiza Kabuki Theater , you can step back in time to experience this classical dance-drama, known for the elaborate makeup of its performers. A theater has stood at this location since the 1600s; the current structure was built in 1929.

For the foodie or simply the hungry traveler, Gion is packed with traditional teahouses, bars, and restaurants . Cafe Opal, inspired by London culture, is known as “the most soulful cafe in the world.” Shijo Avenue is the district’s shopping area. Traditional craft shops can be found on Nawate-Dori, Shinmonzen, and Furumonzen Streets.

Traditional shrines and temples are located throughout the district. Gion is home to the Yasaka-Jinja shrine , formerly named Gion Shrine, which has been called Kyoto’s “spiritual lodestone.” This shrine is located on Gion’s eastern edge.

Yasaka shrine

A small Buddhist temple called Chugen-Ji or Meyami Jizo is located nearby. At the tori gate shrine of Yasui Kompira-gu, people write wishes on small wooden tablets called ema and tie them near the altar. There is also a “power stone” with a hole in the middle that people crawl through to symbolize rebirth and to break bad habits or better their relationships with others.

The Kennin-Ji temple is the city’s oldest Zen temple, dating from 1202. The Tatsumi Jinja shrine , known as the “Home of the Gods of Gion’s Harvest,” is the location where authorized apprentice geisha first make public appearances.

Shirakawa Area

The Shirakawa Area, along with Hanami-Koji Street from Shinjo Avenue to Kenninji Temple, are Gion’s most iconic areas. The Shirakawa Canal , which runs parallel to Shijo Avenue, is lined with willow trees, tea houses, and high-end restaurants. Shirakawa is the quiet side of the Gion .

Hanami-Koji Area

Hanami-Koji means “blossom viewing lane” and indeed it is a place where you can see the cherry blossoms when the spring begins. To the south of Shijo, Hanami-Koji is a broad flagstone pavement, bordered on each side by ochaya, or traditional teahouses staffed by geisha. One of these, the Ichiriki Chaya, is over 300 years old.

Most visitors to Gion hope to spot or be entertained by a geisha, and the Hanami-Koji’s Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theater , or Gion Corner, offers the most accessible experience. A cultural show is held there daily, aimed at introducing foreign tourists to Japanese arts such as tea ceremony, ikebana flower arranging, bunraku puppet theater, and dances performed by real maiko.

Gion Matsuri

Gion Matsuri, Kyoto

The origins of the Gion Matsuri , or Gion Festival, can be traced to the year 869. Today, it is considered the most famous festival in Japan . A parade begins at the Yasaka Shrine. The floats of this festival span 25 meters in height and weigh as much as 12 tons; the float wheels may be taller than you are!

Dozens of floats represent the different neighborhoods of Kyoto . The streets are closed to traffic and are lined with food and game stalls called yatai, where you can enjoy treats such as ramen and yakitori. This festival takes place during the month of July .

Gion District at Night

Gion’s atmosphere begins to change in the early evening, when apprentice geisha, called maiko , can be seen traversing the lantern-lit streets or announcing live entertainment at bars and restaurants. Today, there are less than 1,000 geisha remaining. You can recognize them by their white makeup and traditional kimonos. Don’t forget to take in the riverside scenery, most vivid at sunset .

You can book and customize private walking tours of the city at night using services such as Viator. Remember that evenings in Kyoto can become chilly, even during the warmer months, so be sure to dress accordingly.

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Getting Around Kyoto

Kyoto is incredibly easy to explore by public transport (trains, subways, buses and taxis) or under your own steam (by bicycle or walking). This is a detailed guide to getting around Kyoto, with information on the best way to get to each part of the city.

Getting Around Kyoto - image copyright Jeffrey Friedl

Kyoto has a world-class public transport system: the buses, trains and subways will get you where you want to go fast and efficiently. And, because the city is relatively compact and mostly flat, it’s also a great city for cycling and walking.

Because the public transport system is so extensive, there are usually several ways to get to any particular destination, which is why it’s important to know the BEST way to get to where you’re going (see the Kyoto Transport by Destination Guide further down on this page).

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

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Kyoto’s Trains

Kyoto is served by six train lines. While some of these are intended for intercity commuting, they all can be used to get around the city. For details on Kyoto’s train system, see the Kyoto Trains page .

Kyoto’s Subways

Kyoto has two subway lines that are the best way to move north-south and east-west in the city. For details on Kyoto’s subway system, see the Kyoto Subways page .

You can download a free English-language PDF of the Kyoto train and subway system from the official JR Pass website (link opens PDF directly).

See also my page of information about getting special Kyoto bus, train and subway ticket deals .

Kyoto’s Buses

Kyoto’s bus system is incredibly extensive: you can get almost anywhere by bus if you know where to board and which bus to board. However, most travelers find the train and subway systems to be faster and easier to use. For details on Kyoto buses, see the Kyoto Buses page .

Kyoto’s Taxis

Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced in Kyoto. And when you have three or four people, they can be a good value. They also allow you to cover a lot of ground fast and they can be used to connect areas that aren’t well served by public transport (for example, to go from Arashiyama to Kinkaku-ji Temple ). For details on Kyoto’s taxis, see the Kyoto Taxi page .

Cycling in Kyoto

Kyoto regularly appears on lists of the world’s best bicycle cities and for good reason: it’s a great place to explore by bicycle. It’s flat, the weather is usually good for cycling, and drivers are relatively sane. For details on exploring Kyoto by bicycle (including where to rent a cycle), see the Cycling in Kyoto page .

Walking in Kyoto

Whether you want to amble around the sightseeing districts inside the city or hike in the hills that surround the town, Kyoto is a brilliant place to explore on foot. For details on walking in Kyoto, see the Kyoto Walking Itineraries page and the Best Kyoto Hikes page .

The Takeaway:

  • Kyoto is a compact city with a well-developed transport network. It’s very easy to get around.
  • The subways and trains are the most convenient way to get around the city.
  • Buses are less convenient, but cover almost the whole city.
  • Taxis are plentiful and reasonably cheap. They’re sometimes cheaper than buses for groups of three or four on short trips.
  • Bicycles are a great way to get around Kyoto. The city is mostly flat and the drivers are sane. If you enjoy cycling, I strongly recommend renting a bicycle to explore the city.
  • Kyoto is a great city to explore on foot. Downtown area , Arashiyama and Higashiyama are all great for walking.
  • There are several special tickets that will save you tons of money if you plan on riding the buses, subways and trains a lot.

Chris’s Kyoto Travel Tips:

  • Avoid taxis and buses in the Higashiyama Area during the cherry blossom season . The roads will be so crowded that it will actually be faster to walk.
  • Take trains and subways where possible – they’re faster and more comfortable than buses.
  • Don’t be afraid to grab a map and just head out there. Kyoto is mostly a rectilinear grid pattern, so it’s easy to navigate. And, Kyotoites are unfailingly helpful when asked for directions.

Kyoto Transport by Destination Guide

Here’s a list of the routes most often used by visitors to Kyoto, and the best form of transport to get from one specific place to another.

From Kyoto Station to:

  • Downtown Kyoto: Take the Karasuma Line subway to Shijo Station.
  • Southern Higashiyama: Take the Karasuma Line subway, switch to the Tozai Line at Karasuma-Oike Station and get off at Higashiyama Station.
  • Northern Higashiyama: Take the Karasuma Line subway, switch to the Tozai Line at Karasuma-Oike Station and get off at Keage Station.
  • Daitoku-ji Temple: Take the Karasuma Line subway to Kitaoji Station and walk for about 10 minutes.
  • Kinkaku-ji Temple: Take Kyoto City Bus No. 205 or 101 Kinkakuji-Michi.
  • Ryoan-ji Temple: Take Kyoto City Bus No. 205 or 101 to Kinkakuji-Michi, then a brief taxi ride from there to Ryoan-ji Temple.
  • Arashiyama: Take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
  • Kurama and Kibune: Take Kyoto Bus No. 16 or 17 to Demachiyanagi (be careful to board a brown Kyoto Bus, not a green Kyoto City Bus) and switch to the Eizan Line and get off at Kibune or Kurama.
  • Takao: Take a JR bus and get off at the Yamashiro Takao stop.
  • Uji: Take the JR Nara Line and get off at Uji.
  • Tofuku-ji Temple: Take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji.
  • Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine: Take the JR Uji Line to Inari.
  • Nara: Take the JR Nara Line to Nara (if you have a JR Rail Pass) or take the more convenient and faster Kintetsu tokkyu (express) train to Nara.
  • Osaka: Take a shinkansen to Shin-Osaka if you have a JR Rail Pass, or take a JR shinkaisoku (express) to Osaka if you don’t have a JR Rail Pass.
  • Kobe: Take a shinkansen to Shin-Kobe if you have a JR Rail Pass, or take a JR shinkaisoku (express) to Sannomiya if you don’t have a JR Rail Pass.
  • Hiroshima: Take a shinkansen to Hiroshima.
  • (express) to Koya-san.
  • Tokyo: Take a shinkansen (Nozomi or Hikari shinkansen).
  • Kansai Airport: Take the JR Haruka Airport Express.

From Downtown Kyoto to:

  • Kyoto Station: Take the Karasuma Line subway from Karasuma-Oike or Shijo to the Kyoto stop.
  • Southern Higashiyama: Take the Tozai Line subway from Karasuma-Oike, Kyotoshiyakusho-mae or Sanjo-Keihan to the Higashiyama stop.
  • Northern Higashiyama: Take the Tozai Line subway from Karasuma-Oike, Kyotoshiyakusho-mae or Sanjo-Keihan to the Keage stop.
  • Daitoku-ji Temple: Take the Karasuma Line subway to Kitaoji and walk for 10 minutes.
  • Kinkaku-ji Temple: Take Kyoto City Bus No. 59 from Kawaramachi-Sanjo to Kinkakuji-Michi.
  • Ryoan-ji Temple: Take Kyoto City Bus No. 59 from Kawaramachi-Sanjo to Kinkakuji-Michi and then take a brief taxi ride.
  • Arashiyama: Take the Tozai Line subway to Uzumasa-Tenjingawa and then a brief taxi ride (if you’re in a hurry), or take Kyoto City Bus No. 11 from either Sanjo-Keihan or Shijo-Kawaramachi.
  • Kurama and Kibune: Take the Keihan Line north to Demachiyanagi and switch to the Eizan Line to Kibune or Kurama.
  • Uji: Take the Keihan Main Line south to Chushojima and switch to the Keihan Uji Line to Uji.
  • Tofuku-ji Temple: Take the Keihan Main Line to Tofukuji.
  • Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine: Take the Keihan Main Line to Fushimi-Inari.
  • Osaka: Take the Hankyu Line from Kawaramachi to Umeda, or the Keihan Line from Sanjo-Keihan or Gion-Shijo to Yodoyabashi.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

  • For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
  • Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
  • Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
  • See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
  • Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
  • Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
  • If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
  • A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
  • World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

jr travel centre kyoto

  • Central Kyoto
  • Northwest Kyoto
  • Northern Higashiyama
  • Southern Higashiyama
  • Downtown Kyoto
  • Kyoto Station Area
  • South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Kyoto: Getting there and around

Getting to kyoto.

  • ¥ around 14,000
  • multiple trains per hour

Tokyo and Kyoto are connected with each other by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen . Nozomi trains require about 140 minutes to reach Kyoto from Tokyo, Hikari trains about 160 minutes and Kodama trains about four hours.

The regular one way fare from Tokyo to Kyoto is 13,320 yen for a non-reserved seat or around 14,000 yen for a reserved seat. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on Hikari and Kodama trains, but requires a supplement fee of 4,960 yen on Nozomi trains.

The Tokyo-Osaka Hokuriku Arch Pass is a rail pass that allows holders to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto via Kanazawa , using the Hokuriku Shinkansen . It is not the fastest way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto, but it allows pass holders to visit the less-explored Hokuriku Region along the way. It costs 24,500 yen and is valid for seven consecutive days.

  • ¥ 3,500 - 10,000
  • multiple daytime and overnight connections per day

The one way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto by highway bus takes about 7-8 hours. There are daytime and overnight buses. Fierce competition on the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route has produced a wide variety of comfort levels (from discount to super premium buses) and an abundance of low priced offers.

Typical one way fares for discount buses, such as Willer Express , start from around 3500 yen; while premium buses charge up to 10,000 yen. If used effectively, the Japan Bus Pass can reduce the cost for the bus trip to around 3000 yen. Online reservations can be made through Willer and Japan Bus Online .

  • 2-3 transfers
  • ¥ 9,000 - 23,000
  • multiple flights per day

The closest airport to Kyoto is Osaka 's Itami Airport , about one hour by bus from central Kyoto ( more details ). Most flights connect Itami Airport with Tokyo 's Haneda Airport , with just a few serving Tokyo's Narita Airport . Flight duration is one hour. The regular one way fare is around 28,000 yen, but discount tickets are usually available for around 9,000 to 14,000 yen.

  • ¥ around 10,000 (expressway tolls)

Driving between Tokyo and Kyoto via the Tomei and Meishin Expressways takes about five to six hours without breaks and traffic jams. The expressway toll is around 10,000 yen one way.

  • 4 transfers
  • ¥ 2,410 - 8,210

By local trains , the one way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto takes about nine hours and typically involves about four transfers of trains. The regular fare is a relatively expensive 8360 yen, however, with a Seishun 18 Kippu you could theoretically do the trip for as little as 2410 yen.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates .

Getting around

Kyoto features a rectangular street system. Unlike the streets in other Japanese cities, most of central Kyoto's streets are named. The main streets running from east to west are numbered in ascending order from north to south, and are about 500 meters apart from each other, with several smaller streets in between. For example, Shijo means "4th Avenue" and Nijo means "2nd Avenue".

Kyoto's city center with the highest concentration of dining, shopping and entertainment opportunities, is located around the junction of Shijo-dori (4th Avenue) and Kawaramachi-dori (Kawaramachi Street). JR Kyoto Station is located south of the city center at the height of Hachijo-dori (8th Avenue).

The most prominent north-south street is Karasuma-dori (Karasuma Street), which runs from Kyoto Station via the city center to Kyoto Imperial Palace . Another north-south axis is Kamo River, about one kilometer east of Karasuma-dori.

Kyoto has a rather inadequately developed public transportation system for a city of its size, consisting of two subway lines, a dense bus network and several railway companies, whose lines are not always conveniently connected with each other. Taxis and bicycles can be worthwhile alternatives.

The recommended way to get around Kyoto by public transportation is to use an IC card , such as Icoca, which is accepted on virtually all trains and buses in the city. Alternatively, travelers intending to use buses or subways extensively, should consider one of the 1-day passes available. See the ticket section below for more details.

Below is a simplified map of the railway and subway lines of Kyoto:

Few of Kyoto 's tourist attractions are located close to subway or train stations. Instead, Kyoto has a dense bus network with direct bus lines from Kyoto Station and/or the city center around Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori to most major sights.

Kyoto is served by multiple bus companies. For central Kyoto, the green Kyoto City Bus buses are most numerous and useful. The red buses by Kyoto Bus are second most prominent and tend to be convenient to access sights in more outlying areas of the city.

The tourist offices provide a useful English network map for the Kyoto City Buses, which makes it quite easy for foreign visitors to access tourist attractions by bus. Despite the good map and English displays and announcements, however, getting off at the correct bus stop can still be stressful, especially in crowded buses.

Since buses are small and operate surprisingly infrequently even on some major routes, buses to major tourist sights can often get crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays. In addition, much time can be lost when buses get stuck or only proceed slowly in the busy street traffic. Consequently, it is recommended to use subways and trains as much as possible, and use buses only for medium and short distances, for example, from the closest subway station to the destination.

Most buses are entered through the back door and left through the front door. The fare has to be paid when leaving the bus. Inside much of central Kyoto, there is a flat rate of 230 yen per ride. Outside the flat fare zone, the fare increases with the distance. Click here for more information on riding buses.

jr travel centre kyoto

There are two subway lines in Kyoto , the Karasuma Line which runs from south to north along Karasuma-dori and stops at JR Kyoto Station, and the newer Tozai Line which runs from east to west and meets the Karasuma Line at the intersection of Karasuma-dori and Oike-dori.

Japan Railways

All JR lines, including the Tokaido Shinkansen , pass through or commence at JR Kyoto Station . JR trains can be a convenient for accessing the Arashiyama area (JR Sagano Line) and some attractions in southern Kyoto along the JR Nara Line, e.g. Fushimi Inari Shrine and Uji .

Other Railways

  • Hankyu Railway connects Kyoto with Osaka . The line initially runs below Shijo Avenue from Kawaramachi westwards in direction of Osaka. It is a good option for accessing the area around Katsura Rikyu , from where a branch line also connects to Arashiyama .
  • Keifuku Railway (also known as Randen) operates two tram-like train lines in northwestern Kyoto. For train lovers, a ride on these trains is a small attraction by itself. The lines can be an option for accessing Arashiyama and the area around Ryoanji and Kinkakuji .
  • Keihan Railway 's main line runs next and parallel to Kamo River, but unfortunately does not connect to Kyoto Station . The line continues to Osaka and is an alternative to the JR Nara Line to access some of the attractions in southern Kyoto.
  • Eizan Railway operates two train lines from where the Keihan Line ends, Demachiyanagi Station. One line leads to Kurama , while the other runs to the base of Hieizan .
  • Kintetsu Railway connects Kyoto Station to Nara . Note that some trains on the Karasuma Subway Line continue to run on the Kintetsu Nara Line and the other way around.

By sightseeing bus

The Sky Hop Bus is an expensive but convenient way to visit Kyoto's most famous sightseeing spots. Double-decker buses with an open-air second floor run clockwise every hour from Kyoto Station in a large circle around the city, stopping near major tourist sites along the way, including Nijo Castle , Kinkakuji , the Imperial Palace , Heian Shrine and Kiyomizudera . A 12-hour pass costs 2500 yen and a 24-hour pass costs 3600 yen and can be purchased through Klook .

Kyoto is probably the Japanese city with the highest concentration of taxis . Especially in the city center, taxis are found everywhere. Taxis can not only be a more comfortable, but also an economical alternative to buses on short to medium distances for groups of three or more.

Most taxis accommodate up to four passengers (not including the driver), while larger vehicles are able to accommodate an additional fifth passenger. The rate starts around 610 yen for the first two kilometers and increases by 80 yen for every additional 300-400 meters traveled.

Kyoto City's simple layout and flat terrain make it easy and convenient to explore by bicycle . Numerous bicycle rental outlets can be found around the city, especially around major stations, such as Kyoto Station or in popular biking areas like Arashiyama . Typical rental prices are around 1000-1500 yen per day for basic bicycles and around 1700-2000 yen for electric assist bicycles. Some lodgings may provide their guests with bicycles for a small fee or for free.

Kyoto is generally a bicycle-friendly city with relatively easily navigable roads and a handful of cycling routes, most notably along Kamo River. Designated bicycle parking is often freely available around popular sightseeing spots. The situation is a little bit more challenging in the city center due to congested roads, crowded sidewalks and a lack of designated parking areas. Also, distances to some of the more outlying sightseeing spots should not be underestimated. For example, it is about eight kilometers (typically a 45-75 minute ride) from Kyoto Station to Kinkakuji or about ten kilometers to Arashiyama .

Passes and Tickets

See also our separate page about the various passes available for the Kansai Region .

The prepaid IC card available in Kyoto is called Icoca . It does not give you any discounts over regular tickets, but it makes the process of taking trains and buses easier, as you do not always need to buy a ticket for each ride. Icoca cards can be purchased through ticket machines at JR stations. Local non-JR railway companies offer their own IC card called Pitapa ; however, Pitapa is a postpaid card that works more like a credit card and is targeted at residents.

Icoca and Pitapa can be used on virtually all trains and buses in and around Kyoto (and most other major cities in Japan). Additionally, eight other IC cards from other major cities of Japan can also be used on the trains and buses of Greater Osaka and Kyoto, including Suica, Pasmo, Kitaca, Toica, Manaca, Sugoca, Nimoca and Hayakaken.

The Kansai One Pass is a special version of Icoca exclusively for foreign tourists that additionally qualifies for discounts at various attractions in the Kansai Region . It is available for sale at Kansai Airport and major railway stations in the Kansai Region.

Furthermore, the following one day passes are available for Kyoto :

  • Kyoto Sightseeing Card (1100 yen) Unlimited use of Kyoto's two subway lines and most buses (including Kyoto City Buses, Kyoto Buses, JR buses and Keihan buses) in central Kyoto and outskirts, including Ohara and Daigoji on one calendar day. The pass also comes with discount coupons for selected sights in Kyoto. It can be purchased from ticket machines in subway stations, at bus ticket centers and from some hotels. The pass can pay off especially if you visit outlying areas such as Ohara . The downside is that, besides the subway lines, the pass does not cover any other trains which are often a convenient means of getting around.
  • Kyoto Subway One Day Card (800 yen) Unlimited use of Kyoto's two subway lines on one calendar day. The card can be purchased from ticket machines at subway stations. It generally pays off if you use subways more than three times per day, however its value is restricted by the subway's limited coverage area.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Arukumachi kyoto route planner, kansai one pass, kyoto municipal transportation bureau, keihan railway, kintetsu railway, hankyu railway, kansai airport transportation, osaka airport transport, sky hop bus, enjoy cycling in kyoto, keifuku railway, eizan railway, hotels around kyoto.

jr travel centre kyoto

Experiences around Kyoto

jr travel centre kyoto

JPRail.com - Japan rail and train travel complete guide

How to use JR Pass in downtown Kyoto. Find how much you can use Japan Rail Pass in Kyoto.

jr travel centre kyoto

Kyoto is most popular destination in Japan. You may visit Kyoto by JR Pass and other JR West Rail Passes. You may be wondering how much you can use your pass to explore Kyoto?

In this post, I explain you about the coverage of JR Pass and other rail passes in Kyoto.

Explaination by movie

The tokaido shinkansen, the limited express haruka, special rapid train, from kanazawa, amanohashidate, kinosaki, nara, jr sagano line, west japan jr bus, around kyoto station, the places which are not covered.

You may watch same content as this post in the movie below as well.

First of all, please see the map below. I put train routes, a bus route and the name of the tourist spots in the map.

jr travel centre kyoto

These are covered by JR Pass. And also these following other regional JR deal have same coverage:

  • Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass
  • Kansai Wide Area Pass
  • Sanyo Sanin Area Pass
  • Kansai Hokuriku Area Pass

Kansai Area Pass does not cover West Japan JR Bus line but it covers Kyoto subway and some part of Keihan railway. Please find more information in the post below:

jr travel centre kyoto

Takayama Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass can take you to Kyoto. But it does not cover any modes of transportation after arrival in Kyoto.

How to get Kyoto by JR Pass and JR regional passes

There are many ways to get Kyoto.

You can get Kyoto by the Shinkansen from Tokyo, Yokohama , Odawara (near Hakone ), Nagoya , Shin-Osaka , Okayama, Hiroshima, Hakata and many more stations. Please find more information of the Shinkansen in the link below:

jr travel centre kyoto

If you arrive in Kansai airport and move to Kyoto right after, you may take Haruka. It takes you to Kyoto directly.

jr travel centre kyoto

You may use this train for Tennoji to Kyoto or Shin-Osaka to Kyoto instead of taking a local train.

Special Rapid Service operated by JR West 223 series.

Special Rapid train runs every 15 minutes day time. It offers very frequent and very fast service. It takes just 30 minutes from Osaka to Kyoto. The trip time is same as other limited express train. The Shinkansen is fast but you have to change trains at Shin-Osaka. If you travel from Osaka (Umeda) to Kyoto. This train is the best choice.

Kyoto is connected with these cities as well. You can get Kyoto from Kanazawa by the limited express Thunderbird . From Amanohashidate, you can take the limited express Hashidate . The limited express Kinosaki connects Kyoto and Kinosaki Onsen. And Nara and Kyoto are connected by JR Nara line. You can get Kyoto from Nara by a local train or a rapid train.

The coverage of JR Pass and JR regional passes

There are tree routes are covered.

Sagano line is shown in a pink line. You can get these following places by this line:

  • Kyoto Railway Museum (from Umekoji -Kyotonishi station)
  • Kyoto Aquarium (from Umekoji-Kyotonishi station)
  • Nijo castle (from Nijo station)
  • Toei Uzumasa Eigamura (from Uzumasa station)
  • Arashiyama (from Saga-Arashiyama station)
  • Sagano Scenic Railway, a.k.a. Torokko train (from Saga-Arashiyama station)

A local train and a rapid train runs every 15 minutes in daytime.

Sagano Scenic Railway departs from JR Saga-Arashiyama station but this train is not covered by JR Pass and JR regional deals.

This line is shown in a brown line. This line connects Kyoto and Nara. These following places can be accessed by Nara line:

  • Tofuku-ji temple (from Tofukuji station)
  • Fushimi Inari shrine (from Inari station)
  • Uji (from Uji station)

I did not put any stations on the map between Uji and Inari. But there are many stations. It take 5 to 10 minutes to get Tofukuji and Inari from Kyoto. But it takes 30 minutes from Kyoto station to Uji. Uji is located in the middle of Kyoto and Nara.

A local train and a rapid train runs every 10 to 15 minutes in daytime.

There are huge number of bus routes in Kyoto. You can get almost anywhere in Kyoto by a bus. Most bus routes are operated by Kyoto city bus which is not covered by JR Pass and JR regional deals. But there is only one route which is operated by West Japan JR Bus. This is covered by JR Pass and JR regional deals.

This route connects Kyoto station and Takao. There are some tourist spots on the route of this bus service:

  • Kitano Tenmangu shrine (from Kitano bus stop)
  • Kinkaku-ji temple, a.k.a. Golden Pavillion (from Wara Tenjin bus stop)
  • Ryoan-ji temple (from Ryoanji bus stop)

This bus runs every 15 minutes between 8:00 and 18:00.

JR Kyoto station is the biggest shopping area in Kyoto. There are some shopping buildings around the station. And Kyoto tower is located in front of the station.

JR Pass Kyoto uncovered places

Eastern and northern Kyoto are not covered by JR Pass and JR regional deals. These following popular places cannot be accessed by JR Pass and JR regional deals:

  • Kiyomizu-dera temple
  • Yasaka shrine
  • Nishiki Market
  • Imperial Palace
  • Ginkaku-ji temple
  • Kifune shrine

You have to take Keihan Railway, Hankyu Railway, Kyoto city subway, Kyoto city bus and/or Eizan Railway to get these places. Please refer the post below to find all trains information:

jr travel centre kyoto

I hope you have foud how to maximize using JR Pass in Kyoto. Enjoy your trip to Kyoto.

jr travel centre kyoto

I arrive at Narita on 14 September 2019 at 7.35 AM. I have a JR Pass. Please guide me how best and fast I can reach Kyoto with my JR Pass after arrival.

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Hi Rajendra,

You can take the following route: Narita (Narita Express) Shinagawa (Shinkansen Hikari) Kyoto

You will spend at least 2 hours to complete immigration, custom, baggage pick up, exchange JR pass and booking. And then take about 4.5 to 5 hours to get Kyoto. Please see the link below to find the timetable of Narita Express: http://www.eki-net.com/pc/jreast-shinkansen-reservation/english/wb/common/timetable/e_nex_u/index.html

You can find the timetable of the Shinkansen in the link below: https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/timetable/_pdf/westbound_0620.pdf *You cannot take Nozomi by JR pass.

You may also change trains at Tokyo but Shinagawa is easier.

Takeshi / JPRail.com

Thank you Takeshi.

Could you also provide me a link for Kyoto to Tokyo by Shinkansen Hikari to travel with JR Pass on 20 Sept 2019?

Also please guide me about a possible trains with JR Pass to visit i) From Kyoto Station to Hiroshima ii) From Hiroshima to Himeji Castle iii) From Himeji to Kyoto on 18 or 19 September.

Thanks in advance.

You can visit all places by the Shinkansen. I gave you the first link previously but I put it again. And also I add other link for the other direction of the Shinkansen: https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/timetable/_pdf/westbound_0620.pdf https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/timetable/_pdf/eastbound_0620.pdf

I also put the link of the day trip to Hiroshima from Kyoto. https://jprail.com/destinations/world-heritage-destinations/day-trip-to-hiroshima-and-miyajima-from-osakakyoto.html

I don’t recommend you to visit Hiroshima and Himeji on same day. It’s too much. If you go to Hiroshima, you should visit Miyajima as well. You cannot have any extra time to visit Himeji on the way or on the way back if you visit both Hiroshima and Miyajima. You should visit Himeji on other day. https://jprail.com/destinations/world-heritage-destinations/how-to-access-to-himeji-and-kobe-from-osaka.html

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Please guide me how can I travel from Narita International Airport to Kyoto via Tokyo or Shingawa on JR Pass after arriving at Narita around 7.35 AM. I find no Hikari train connections in the morning. What do I do?

Further, I return to Tokyo from Kyoto on 20 September, why Shinkansen train I can take in the morning hours?

In Tokyo during my stay from 20 to 26 September 2019, I plan to go to Nikko on one day and to Disneyland on another day, all other days I see local attractions in Tokyo. Do you recommend that I purchase JR pass for the second week in Tokyo or manage with IC Cards? Please advise. Also, Please guide how to book for Nikko and Disneyland.

Hi Abraham,

I have already replied you about the train route, timetable and other info for Narita to Kyoto on arrival day.

You may use 7-day JR Pass for the first 7 days. You can use IC card or Tokyo subway ticket in Tokyo. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-visitors/compare-many-discount-tickets-and-passes-for-sightseeing-tokyo-how-to-choose-the-right-tickets.html

You can use other deal for the trip to Nikko: http://www.tobu.co.jp/foreign/en/pass/

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hi we are going to osaka/kyoto/nara this december

and i’m getting confused as to what pass would be fitted for us. we are arriving in kansai airport and we will be staying from dec. 6-13

we are planning to visit most of the tourist spots in kyoto, and we will just be a day in nara and just go to USJ in osaka.

do you have a recommended pass for us? how can we do it in the most economical way?

i’ve checked some of the passes it is only good for 4 days? plus i am not sure of what the difference is between the kansai pass and the west pass?

hopefully you can advice it would be really helpful. thanks

Are you going to stay in Osaka only and make day trips to Nara, Kyoto? If so, please see the link below: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7to9-days/how-to-build-the-itinerary-and-choose-the-deals-for-osaka-stay-5-to-7-days.html

If you stay in both Kyoto and Osaka, please see the link below: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7to9-days/visit-kyoto-osaka-nara-and-kobe-for-5-to-7-days-sample-itinerary.html

If you have a different trip plan, please let me know the detailed itinerary.

DEC. 6 -Arrive in Kansai Airport around 8PM -We plan to take a train to Kyoto -We are also planning to stay near Kyoto Station for convenience DEC. 7 (KYOTO DAY 1) -ARASHIYAMA AREA IN THE MORNING -KINKAKUJI GOING BACK -GO TO DOWNTOWN KYOTO TO EAT AND SHOP DEC. 8 (KYOTO DAY 2) -KIYOMIZU DERA -NINENZAKA -SANNEIZAKA -GINKAKUJI -GION we actually plan on renting some kimono on kiyomizu dera, and walking from kiyomizu dera to gion, just for fun, though if we get tired we would love to take a ride back to kiyomizu dera DEC. 9 (KYOTO DAY 3) -HIKE IN KURAMA TO KIBUNE IN THE MORNING -TRY GOING TO KYOTO SAMURAI MUSEUM -TRY OUT SOME FOOD IN NISHIKI MARKET -REST AND GO OUT IN THE NIGHT FOR FOOD AGAIN, MAYBE TRY IPPUDO DEC. 10 (KYOTO DAY 4) -FUSHIMI INARI EARLY IN THE MORNING -TRY SOME FLUFFY PANCAKES , SOMEWHERE IN DOWNTOWN KYOTO OR ANYWHERE NEAR FUSHIMI INARI -TRY GOING TO RYOANJI -TRY SOME OMURICE IN KICHI KICHI DEC. 11 ( LAST DAY KYOTO) -TAKE BREAKFAST NEAR DOWNTOWN KYOTO -TAKE TRAIN TO NARA FOR AN AFTERNOON SHORT TRIP -TAKE TRAIN FROM NARA TO OSAKA, NOT SURE YET WHERE TO STAY BUT DEFINITELY NEAR A STATION DEC. 12 ( First Day Osaka) -Universal Studios JAPAN DEC. 13 (OSAKA DAY 2) -OSAKA CASTLE IN THE MORNING -MAID CAFE FOR LUNCH -PACK BAGS AND HEAD FOR AIRPORT AROUND 5PM, OUR FLIGHT IS AROUND 8PM IN THE EVENING

hope you can suggest something for us. thanks 🙂

You may use the sample itinerary in the link below. Just take the part of the trip to Kobe/HImeji from this sample: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/7to9-days/visit-kyoto-osaka-nara-and-kobe-for-5-to-7-days-sample-itinerary.html

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Arriving by cruise ship in Kobe for one day only – Port Liner to Sannimoya – want to spend the day in Kyoto exploring and walking as much as possible, especially the tori in Inari , Nijo, Gion and the Phllosophers Path .

We expect to return Kobe around 20:30 on that same day. We will pay full fare for the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Shin-Kobe. Any tips? Does the one day Kansei Pass cover the Kobe Port liner?

We expect to take the JR Special Rapid Service from Sannimoya Kobe to Kyoto, but do not want to change trains in Osaka – how do we make sure we do not need to change trains – I see on Hyperdia there are some trains that come in to Osaka on Track 8 and leave on Track 8 to Kyoto – should I assume this means no change of train?

Same way for our full fare Shinkansen from Kyoto to Kobe – it looks like some Shinkansen trains from Kyoto do not require changing trains in Osaka – is this correct?

This will be the first week in August – will the trains be very crowded – should we expect to stand up?

Hi J. Livingston,

You don’t need any passes. Because Kansai area pass does not cover Portliner and Shinkansen. You cannot get the worth of it. Just use a regular fare to take the trains.

In Hyperdia, it shows you that you have to change trains. But actually you don’t need to. Most Special Rapid Service take you to Kyoto directly. Just stay on the train and proceed your trip. This train is always busy because this is a primary commute train between Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe. You may not be able to have a seat when you get on Sannomiya. But many passengers get off at Osaka and other many passengers get on at Osaka. So if you stay in the train at Osaka, you can get the seat there.

Some Shinkansen trains go through to Shin-Kobe from Kyoto. But Shin-Kobe is one station away from Sannomiya by subway. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/shin-kobe-station-guide-how-to-change-shinkansen-and-kobe-city-subway.html https://jprail.com/travel-informations/basic-informations/station-information/kobe-sannomiya-stations-guide-check-the-location-and-connections-between-many-sannomiya-stations.html

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Hi Takeshi-san,

We are going to Japan for 11 days and we’re planning to visit, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Kyoto.

Whats the best kind of JR pass should we get that would be usable in those four regions/city?

Arigato gozaimasu!

Hi Roy san,

I need to know which airport you will arrive and depart. And I also need to know how many nights/days you will spend at each places before choosing the deal.

We’re arriving at Narita Airport. Then initially, we’re planning to spend 2 days in Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka.

If you go back to Narita, you may use 7-day JR pass. You will spend 6 days other than Tokyo. So you may use 7-day pass for Tokyo-Nagoya-Kyoto-Osaka-Tokyo. As long as you will use 7-day JR pass for this 6 days, you can start using 7-day pass anytime. If you include one way from Narita to Tokyo (or versa), that is perfect. Otherwise you can use other deal. Please see the link below: https://jprail.com/sample-itineraries/airport-access/narita/the-list-of-deals-for-access-to-downtown-tokyo-from-narita-airport.html

Takeshi / JRPail.com

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My family of 4 (2A & 2C) will be travelling to Osaka in mid Oct 2019 for 10D9N. I have shortlisted 2 accommodations – 1 near Tennoji station, another near Imamiya station. R u able to advise which location is more ideal? We plan to stay in Osaka for 9N and make day trips to Kyoto, Kobe and Nara. Most of the days will be spent in Osaka and places we will visit include USJ, The Aquarium, Osaka Castle, Umeda, Dotonburi and the Namba shopping districts. Should we buy a 4D JR West Kansai Pass and use it for our transfer from KIX, and start our holiday itinerary with day trips Kyoto, Kobe and Nara first? Then for the remaining days in Osaka, we just buy single passes? Or instead of JR West Kansai Pass, ICOCA Pass is sufficient? Trying to manage my budget and appreciate some suggestions from you. Thanks!

Regards Michi

Hi Michi san,

Tennoji is more convenient. Tennoji is one of the hub stations in Osaka. You can take JR and two lines of subway. And also Tennoji can be accessed by JR limited express Haruka directly. You don’t need to change trains. If you stay in Imamiya, you have to change trains at Tennoji.

Kansai area pass is a good choice. But Kansai thru pass may be better choice. https://jprail.com/travel-informations/other-rail-passes/rail-pass-for-residents/how-to-use-kansai-thru-pass-compare-pass-and-single-fare.html

Kansai area pass pros You can get Kyoto directly by limited express Haruka from Tennoji. It’s fast, convenient and comfortable. You can get Nara directly by rapid train from Tennoji. cons It covers only JR trains. You can get Arashiyama, Nijo and Fushimi only by this pass. You have to pay extra to take subway, city bus and other railways. Nara station is about 1 km more far away from Kintetsu Nara station. You must use it in the consecutive days.

Kansai thru pass Pros It covers city bus, subway and any non JR trains are covered. It is much more convenient in Kyoto. You can take Kintetsu railway to get Nara. Kintetsu Nara station is much better location than JR Nara station. You can pick any 3 days in your trip to use this pass. You don’t need to use it in the consecutive days. Cons You cannot get Kyoto directly. You have to take Hankyu railway from Umeda or Keihan railway from Yodoyabashi. You can get these two stations by subway from Tennoji. You have to take subway to get Namba and then take Kintetsu railway to get Nara

For the trip to Kobe, it doesn’t matter. You can use either pass.

So if you go for Kansai area pass, you can use 4-day pass and start using it from KIX. If you go for Kansai thru pass, you can use ICOCA and Haruka on arrival day and use Kansai thru pass later when you start the trip to Kyoto, Nara and Kobe. You don’t need to use Kansai

In Osaka, you may find the deal in the link 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

Kyoto Bus & Train Guide Logo

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jr travel centre kyoto

Local buses in Kyoto : JR Bus

1. operation area (route) & attractions,   1-1  main attractions along the route   1-2  from kyoto station to the attractions, 2.  fares & passes,   2-1  fares a ride   2-2  type of passes you can use, 1. operation area / route & attractions, jr bus is formally called “west japan jr bus” in kyoto. we usually call it just “jr bus”., so, in this article, please understand that those two are the same meaning., the map below is the route of jr bus in kyoto ..

jr travel centre kyoto

Where in Kyoto dose the JR Bus operate ?

Actually, jr bus has only one route in kyoto city., it connectes kyoto station and takao (upper northwest area in kyoto) which is famous for autumn leaves., the number of jr bus operated is basically every 30 minute ., so you can go to some famous spots, but can not visit all over the kyoto city only by jr bus., on apr. 1st, 2020, the names of some bus stops of jr bus were changed to the same ones as kyoto city bus ., and, on may. 2021, the route between kyoto station and togano-o in takao area comes to be a flat fare (only ¥230 for an adult), and covered by bus one-day pass and subway & bus one-day pass released by kyoto city bus . (unfortunately, only bus one-day pass is discontinued at the end of september 2023.), what attractions are accessible by jr bus , «attractions near the bus stops».

jr travel centre kyoto

You can go to…

Kyoto aquarium , ryoanji temple (world heritage, the picture above ), ninnaji temple (world heritage) and kouzanji temple (world heritage) directly., • kyoto aquarium : near nanajo-omiya bus stop, •  ryoanji temple : near ryoanji-mae bus stop, • ninnaji temple : near omuro-ninnaji bus stop, • kouzanji temple : near togano-o bus stop, «attractions by bus plus walk needed».

jr travel centre kyoto

If you don’t mind walking from bus stop, and don’t worry about time, it is possible to visit some other attractions by JR bus.

For example,  you can visit nijo castle (world heritage),  kitano tenmangu shrine, kinkakuji temple (golden pavilion, world heritage, the picture above ) and jingoji temple ., • nijo castle : 15 min walk from nijo station bus stop, •  kitano tenmangu shrine : 7 min walk from kitano ( kitano hakubaicho from the date, ari. 1st)  bus stop, •  kinkakuji temple : 10 min walk from waratenjin-mae bus stop, • jingoji temple : 20 min walk from takako bus stop, how long dose it take actually from kyoto station to attractions by jr bus , ♦ kyoto aquarium : at least 12 min (bus ride 7 min, get off at nanajo-omiya bus stop , walk 5 min), ♦ nijo castle : at least 31 min (bus ride 16 min, get off at nijo-ekimae (jr nijo station) bus stop , walk 15 min), ∗ if you have jr pass , train (jr sagano line) is better than jr bus to visit nijo castle. (7 min to nijo station), but if you don’t have the jr pass, kyoto city bus or subway is much better to visit because the nearest bus stop or station is available. (refer kyoto station to nijo castle ), ♦ kitano tenmangu shrinen : at least 30 min (bus ride 25 min, get off at kitano ( kitano hakubaicho from the date, apr. 1st)  bus stop , walk 5 min), ♦ kinkakuji templ :  at least 37 min (bus ride 27 min, get off at waratenjin-mae bus stop , walk 10 min), ♦ ryoanji temple : at least 31 min (bus ride 31 min, near ryoanji-mae bus stop ), ♦ ninnaji temple  : at least 33 min (bus ride 33 min, near omuro-ninnaji bus stop ), ♦ kouzanji temple : at least 51 min (bus ride 51 min, near togano-o bus stop ), ♦ jingoji temple : at least 69 min (bus ride 49 min, get off at takao bus stop , walk 20 min), 2. fares & passes, basically, the fares of jr bus depend on the distance. fortunately, from mar. 2021, takao area is included by flat fare zone, so most famous attractions are visited by just ¥230 (flat fare). 〈 adult /  child (6 – 11 yares old)〉, ♦ kyoto station  ⇔ aquarium, kinkakuji, ryoanji, ninnaji : ¥230  /  ¥120, ♦ kyoto station  ⇔ kouzanji, jingoji  (takao area)  : ¥530 / ¥270 ⇒ ¥230 / ¥120, ♦ kyoto station  ⇔ suzan (the fanal stop) : ¥1080 / ¥540.

jr travel centre kyoto

You can use JR Pass and any IC cards including Kansai One Pass for JR Bus. From Mar. 2021, Bus One-Day Pass , and Subway & Bus One-Day Pass come to be accepted. ( Note! Bus One-day Pass is discontinued at the end of September 2023 . If you have already had the Bus One-day Pass before discontinuation, you can use until the end of March 2024.)

Kansai thru pass cannot be used for jr bus., related posts.

jr travel centre kyoto

Pick-up locations/Exchange locations

Note: Some Travel Service Centers are closed during the year-end/New Year holiday period. Additionally, the pick-up/exchange locations and service hours may be changed or closed without notice (as of March 2023).

※ There is no JR station in the Central Japan International Airport. JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used for the transportation between the Central Japan Airport and the nearest JR stations.

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Shinkansen! Kyoto to Hiroshima train with JR pass (and cost without) 🗾🚊 Japan travel blog

Spending a couple of nights in Hiroshima can be a good idea so you can start to get to know this vibrant urban city.

Of course, that includes the place that memorializes the tragedy that Hiroshima is known for .

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Best things to do in Hiroshima. Atomic bomb dome memorial. Backpacking Japan.

It can also be a good idea to spend one day in Miyajima from Hiroshima!

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Hiroshima and Miyajima one day trip. Backpacking Japan.

So now…

Is it easy to get from Kyoto to Hiroshima by train?

It can be pretty easy.

If you’re traveling with a JR pass, it may require a transfer though. So, it’s not as easy as traveling from Osaka to Hiroshima where you can get a direct train.

Although if you’re traveling without a JR pass, you can definitely find a direct train that will get you from Kyoto to Hiroshima without a transfer.

Either way, there are frequent enough timings that it can be pretty convenient.

So don’t let the transfer deter you or make you nervous!

If you’re looking to get to Hiroshima using your JR pass, you basically have 2 options.

If you don’t have a JR pass, you have one best option to get from Kyoto to Hiroshima by train.

  • Hikari shinkansen
  • Sakura shinkansen
  • JR rapid train
  • Direct Nozomi shinkansen bullet train
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How to get from Kyoto to Hiroshima with a Japan rail pass

Cost with jr pass: free.

  • Kyoto to Shin-Kobe: Hikari shinkansen train (30 minutes)
  • Shin-Kobe to Hiroshima: Sakura shinkansen train (1 hr 15 min)
  • Time: 1 hr 50 min
  • Kyoto to Shin-Osaka: JR rapid train (25 minutes)
  • Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima: Sakura shinkansen train (1.5 hours)
  • Time: 2 hr 5 min

You won’t have to pay anything extra for any portion of the journey if you have a JR pass.

The one small downside of traveling with a JR pass is that it won’t give you access to the fastest trains.

In the case of Kyoto to Hiroshima, it means that you can’t take the direct and fastest Nozomi shinkansen.

This means that you don’t have a direct train option.

The need to transfer trains when traveling with a JR pass may be a slight inconvenience. But in terms of time it takes to get to Hiroshima with the JR pass compared to the Nozomi, it’s a minimal difference of 10 to 20 minutes.

In terms of which of the above options you want to take, it’ll mostly depend on the timing and when you’ll be leaving Kyoto.

There are frequent enough Hikari and Sakura train timings that you can find this option several times throughout the day.

How to search for train routes for Kyoto to Hiroshima with a JR pass

Use the japan travel by navitime website to help you plan your route for Kyoto to Hiroshima by shinkansen with a JR pass! And to confirm the above is still true!

  • from: Kyoto
  • to: Hiroshima
  • tourist pass: Japan Rail Pass (IMPORTANT!)

kyoto to hiroshima with jr pass train route

How much does it cost to get to Hiroshima from Kyoto WITHOUT a Japan rail pass?

Now, let’s say you’re trying to figure out if you should have your JR pass activated when you go to Hiroshima, or you won’t be traveling around Japan at all with a JR pass.

Listed prices are approximate just so you can start to get at least a little bit of an idea.

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train: Nozomi, Hikari, Sakura. With JR pass. How much does it cost? How much time? One day trip to Hiroshima from Kyoto. Japan rail train ticket price. Backpacking Japan itinerary.

Option 1: Shinkansen bullet train – Nozomi

Cost: 11,210 yen (us$100).

  • Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Since you are traveling without a JR pass, you can take the direct train to get to Hiroshima.

This is the fastest option. It’s also the most expensive as it’s a bullet train.

Option 2: Local trains to Hiroshima

Cost: 6,480 yen (us$60).

Or maybe even less than $30. 

As you can imagine, taking the local train from Kyoto to Hiroshima will be a LOT slower compared to taking the bullet train.

Remember that the bullet train takes around 2 hours to get to Hiroshima from Kyoto.

But if you’re not short on time and you’re trying to save a little bit of extra money, this is an option you can consider.

Kyoto to Hiroshima by local train:

  • Train #1: 2 hours (Kyoto to Aioi Hyogo)
  • Train #2: 1 hour 10 minutes (Aioi Hyogo to Okayama)
  • Train #3: 2 hours 50 minutes (Okayama to Hiroshima)
  • Total time from start to finish including transfer time: Around 6 hours

This is NOT the only route available. But this is just to give you an idea of what it may take to go for the cheaper train option.

Depending on the time you leave, you could be looking at 2-3 train transfers, and it may take longer than 6 hours.

Public transportation apps to download before your trip to Japan:

  • Google Maps
  • Navitime for Japan Travel

Have these apps on your phone and you’ll become a pro in no time at navigating public transportation in Japan!

When you’re ready to head to Hiroshima, use your current location to figure out exactly how to get to Hiroshima!

Google maps isn’t the best for planning out exact shinkansen train trips, since it will show you the fastest shinkansen, which is the Nozomi… which you are not supposed to take with a JR pass. However, it can give you a good starting point on train routes that are possible!

Top tips for using Navitime to get from Kyoto to Hiroshima

  • To search shinkansen timings for a JR pass, see the option “tourist pass”
  • To search local trains only, unclick the following under search options: shinkansen, added-fare trains, city bus

Things not to miss at Hiroshima Peace Park

Okay, so now that you have a better idea of how to get to Hiroshima, next up!

Here are some of the top things to see at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park:

1. atomic bomb dome ruins.

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Best things to do in Hiroshima peace park: Atomic bomb dome memorial. Backpacking Japan.

2. Peace memorial museum

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Best things to do in Hiroshima peace park: museum. Backpacking Japan itinerary.

3. Children’s peace monument

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Best things to do in Hiroshima peace park: Children's peace monument memorial. Backpacking Japan.

Plan your trip to the Hiroshima peace park

For more details on Hiroshima itinerary planning, be sure to see these details for what not to miss with a visit to the Hiroshima peace park .

Another place not to miss when you’re in Hiroshima: Miyajima

Miyajima is about an hour away from Hiroshima, and it’s considered to offer the top 3 most scenic views in Japan.

Here are some of the top things to do on Miyajima island:

1. mount misen hike.

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Hiroshima and Miyajima one day trip: Mount Misen hike. Backpacking Japan.

2. Visit to Daisho-in Temple

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Hiroshima and Miyajima one day trip: Daisho-in Temple. Backpacking Japan.

3. See the floating torii at high tide

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Hiroshima and Miyajima one day trip: Floating torii shrine gate at high tide. Backpacking Japan.

Plan your trip to Miyajima

You can make it a day trip to Miyajima from Hiroshima by following this one day Miyajima itinerary .

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Hiroshima and Miyajima one day trip: Miyajima ferry from Hiroshima peace park. Backpacking Japan.

There is also a direct ferry to Miyajima from the Hiroshima peace park if you’re looking to combine Hiroshima and Miyajima in one day.

HAPPY KYOTO TO HIROSHIMA PLANNING!

Plan out your time in hiroshima.

  • Hiroshima to Miyajima ferry
  • One day in Miyajima
  • Visit to Hiroshima peace park

Kyoto to Hiroshima shinkansen bullet train with JR pass. Best things to do in Hiroshima. Backpacking Japan.

Here are ideas for 5 days in Kyoto !

  • Day 1: Top tourist spots with one day Kyoto bus pass
  • Day 2: Fushimi Inari Shrine hike through 1,000 torii gates
  • Day 3: Philosopher's Path walk
  • Day 4: Arashiyama and Sagano
  • Day 5: Kurama Kibune Ohara with one day pass

PLUS Kyoto cherry blossom itinerary and Kyoto fall colors itinerary !

Is a jr pass worth it.

  • Google maps can make it easy to figure out whether or not you should get a JR pass!
  • In google maps, type in your departure and arrival city, and choose the transit icon. The route will come up, and so will the estimated cost at the bottom!
  • Here is an example of a train route with cost on google maps.
  • So do that for all of your long distance routes to figure out how much it might cost.
  • Next, go here to see how much a JR pass costs from an official JR pass vendor (and partner of this website).
  • And compare!
  • Not all forms of public transportation are JR, but long distance shinkansen bullet trains are, and that's where the most cost savings will come.

Best of Kyoto (and Japan!)

  • Best temples to visit in Kyoto
  • Japanese gardens in Kyoto

best places to visit in japan for first trip to japan. famous things to do in japan

IMAGES

  1. JR Kyoto Station

    jr travel centre kyoto

  2. Local tells Top 5 Must-Try restaurants around JR Kyoto station!

    jr travel centre kyoto

  3. Kyoto Travel Web

    jr travel centre kyoto

  4. JR bus in Kyoto 🍵 Where can you go with JR pass by bus in Kyoto? 🗾🚌

    jr travel centre kyoto

  5. Travel plan for first timers in Kyoto

    jr travel centre kyoto

  6. Local JR train in Kyoto 🚊 Where can you go with a JR pass for getting

    jr travel centre kyoto

VIDEO

  1. Come to KYOTO 🇯🇵 #kyoto #japan #japantravel

  2. Kyoto Disaster Prevention Centre

  3. Kyoto Station Story

  4. JR九州 進化している 博多駅 JR Kyushu evolving Hakata Station

  5. KYOTO ITINERARY #kyoto #japan #japan #japantravel #japantrip #kyototrip #京都 #日本 #japanlife

  6. 🏯Kyoto imperial palace near the Kyoto City Zoo⭐️京都市動物園近くの御所#shorts #kyoto #kyotocityzoo

COMMENTS

  1. Tourist Information Center

    Frequently Asked Questions Kyoto:FAQ At the tourist information centers in Kyoto, you can get pamphlets with maps and event information, as well as transit information. The staff on hand speak English, and many other languages, so you can ask questions in your native language. Look for a nearby information center during your travels in Kyoto.

  2. JR (Japan Railway)

    Travel Tips. Transportation. JR (Japan Railway) ... Kyoto Station is the gateway to Kyoto, where the Shinkansen and the Haruka Airport Express direct to Kansai International Airport stop. JR offers access in the direction of Fushimi (Fushimi-Inari Shrine), Arashiyama (Arashiyama Bamboo Forest), Uji (Byodo-in Temple), Osaka, and Nara (Todai-ji ...

  3. Tourist Information Centers

    Official Travel Guide. ... There are tourist information centers in each area of Kyoto Prefecture that provide services and information on sightseeing, transportation, accommodation, events, and more to all tourists visiting Kyoto Prefecture. ... JR Kameoka Station 2nd Floor, 1-6 Tanisugi, Oiwake-cho, Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture. Telephone

  4. Kyoto Station

    The Kyoto Station (京都駅, Kyōto-eki) building was constructed on the 1200th anniversary of the capital's foundation in Kyoto. It was opened to the public in 1997 and stands in perfect contrast to many foreign tourists' image of Kyoto as the capital of traditional Japan. The building's futuristic design was conceived by Japanese architect ...

  5. Getting around Kyoto with the Japan Rail Pass

    Hi Evon! The JR Pass gives you unlimited access to all Japan Rail National trains, JR bus services, ferry services, and airport transfers. A 7-day JR Pass only costs ¥29.110 which is actually cheaper than a return ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto on a Shinkansen bullet train. This means that if you make just one long-distance trip you can already save money.

  6. Kyoto: City Travel Guide

    Kyoto's Kyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most celebrated of Japan's numerous temples and shrines.The meaning of its name is literally translated "Pure Water Temple".This name is derived from the pristine waters of the Otowa Waterfall, on which site the temple was built.It is also famous for its large wooden terrace.. The Kyomizu-dera was founded in 780.

  7. Local JR train in Kyoto

    The "JR train" is the ONLY train you'll be able to use your JR pass. The JR train lines don't go everywhere, but if you want to maximize the use of your JR pass when you are in Kyoto, there there are a few places that you can go taking the JR train. There's a subway system in Kyoto, and your JR pass won't be good for that.

  8. Kyoto Travel Guide

    Kyoto (京都, Kyōto) served as Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868.It is one of the country's ten largest cities with 1.5 million inhabitants and a modern face.. Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its exceptional historic value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and escaped destruction ...

  9. Transportation Tickets & Passes

    Subway, Bus One-Day Pass. Price: 1,100 JPY (Child 550 JPY) This pass will let you visit almost all the major sightseeing spots within the city (a wider bus area compared with the Bus One-Day Pass), and are more reasonable than buying only the Bus One-Day Pass and Subway One-Day Pass individually. Can be used for subways, municipal buses, Kyoto ...

  10. Gion Travel Guide: Kyoto's Geisha District

    Gion is located to the north and south of Shijo Street, from the Kamo-gawa River in the west to the Yasaka-Jinja Shrine in the east. To reach Gion, use your Japan Rail Pass to reach Kyoto Station. Then, take bus number 100 or 206 to the Gion bus stop. You can also take a local train in one of Kyoto's private lines: the closes stations to Gion ...

  11. Kyoto Station

    Traveling from Kyoto Station to Kinosaki Onsen. Kinosaki is a charming hot spring resort town on the Japan Sea coast with 1400 years of history. The town is incredibly picturesque, with beautifully preserved traditional architecture and a river lined with willows and cherry trees that runs through its center. One of the most famous spa resorts ...

  12. JR EAST Travel Service Center (Tokyo Station)

    JR EAST Travel Service Center - Tokyo Station * Area Hours of operation All Days:7:30-20:30 * Area Hours of operation All Days:8:30-18:00 * Area Business Hours: 8:30 to 19:00, to 17:00 on weekends and holidays Open 365 days a year *Temporary Hours of Operation 10:00-17:00. Credit Cards.

  13. Getting Around Kyoto

    Kyoto is incredibly easy to explore by public transport (trains, subways, buses and taxis) or under your own steam (by bicycle or walking). This is a detailed guide to getting around Kyoto, with information on the best way to get to each part of the city. Kyoto has a world-class public transport system: the buses, trains and subways will get ...

  14. Tokyo to Kyoto: How to get to and around Kyoto

    Tokyo and Kyoto are connected with each other by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen. Nozomi trains require about 140 minutes to reach Kyoto from Tokyo, Hikari trains about 160 minutes and Kodama trains about four hours. The regular one way fare from Tokyo to Kyoto is 13,320 yen for a non-reserved seat or around 14,000 yen for a reserved seat.

  15. Transportation

    How to Get Around Kyoto City. The City of Kyoto has a well-developed public transportation system, with municipal subways and buses available, as well as JR trains, and privately-operated railways and bus lines. There are many routes for the municipal bus system in particular. There are many taxis operating in the city, and they can be used ...

  16. How to use JR Pass in downtown Kyoto. Find how much you can use Japan

    And Nara and Kyoto are connected by JR Nara line. You can get Kyoto from Nara by a local train or a rapid train. The coverage of JR Pass and JR regional passes. There are tree routes are covered. JR Sagano line. Sagano line is shown in a pink line. You can get these following places by this line: Kyoto Railway Museum (from Umekoji -Kyotonishi ...

  17. Shinkansen! Tokyo to Kyoto train with JR pass (and cost without)

    Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are some of the best places to visit in Japan. To travel around Kyoto with a JR pass, be sure to see where the local JR train in Kyoto goes and where the local JR bus in Kyoto goes. So… Is it easy to get from Tokyo to Kyoto by train? Yes, it can be! You just need to get yourself to one of 2 train stations in Tokyo:

  18. JR Bus

    On Apr. 1st, 2020, the names of some bus stops of JR Bus were changed to the same ones as Kyoto City Bus. And, on May. 2021, the route between Kyoto station and Togano-o in Takao area comes to be a flat fare (only ¥230 for an adult), and covered by Bus One-day Pass and Subway & Bus One-day Pass released by Kyoto City Bus.

  19. Exchange

    JAPAN RAIL CAFE: 8:00-16:00 JR EAST Travel Service Center: Business Hours (Click Here) JR-CENTRAL Ticket Office (Yaesu Central) 7:30-20:30

  20. Shinkansen! Kyoto to Tokyo train with JR pass (and cost without)

    Here are ideas for your Kyoto itinerary!. Day 1: Top tourist spots with one day bus pass Day 2: Fushimi Inari Shrine hike through 1,000 torii gates Day 3: Philosopher's Path walk Day 4: Arashiyama and Sagano Day 5: Kurama Kibune Ohara with one day pass PLUS Kyoto cherry blossom itinerary and Kyoto fall colors itinerary! And the JR pass makes it time-efficient to travel around Japan by train ...

  21. Kyoto City Official Travel Guide

    We added the new "Events in Kyoto" (Mar 4 - Mar 17) 2024.02.16 We are delighted to announce the launch of a new information page dedicated to hot springs and public baths in Kyoto! 2024.02.15 Traffic Restrictions for Kyoto Marathon 2024 on February 18th; 2024.02.13 Introduction of spring operation of Lake Biwa Canal Cruise; 2024.02.09

  22. Central Japan Railway Company

    Official website of Central Japan Railway Company. Read various information related to our company and service and be ready for your visitation to Japan.

  23. Shinkansen! Kyoto to Hiroshima train with JR pass (and cost without)

    👆 Search for train schedule timings when traveling with a JR pass from Kyoto to Hiroshima. Otherwise, I like to use google maps, which will give you an estimated cost of shinkansen train tickets for general travel planning. (For example: google maps train route.) BUT, google maps is not great to use if you want to know exactly which ...