How to Travel from Osaka to Kyoto: Local Train, Shinkansen, or Bus?

1. Shinkansen Bullet Train： The Fastest Way from Osaka to Kyoto

The fastest way to travel between Osaka and Kyoto is by Shinkansen. However, Bullet Train only saves you around 15–30 minutes compared to other trains, while costing 2–3 times more.

For those with a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), though, the Shinkansen is a good choice as it’s included in the pass.

Note that the JR Pass covers the “Hikari” and “Kodama” trains while providing partial coverage for the “Nozomi” and “Mizuho” bullet trains, both reserved and non-reserved. JR Pass holders wishing to use these trains need to purchase an additional complementary ticket as a supplement to their Japan Rail Pass.

– Hankyu Railway: The Most Affordable Option

The Hankyu Kyoto Line connects Kyoto Kawaramachi Station with Osaka Umeda Station. The advantage of this route is that Kyoto Kawaramachi Station is close to Kyoto’s city center, especially close to the Gion district, offering easy access to key attractions. It is convenient if you are coming back from Kyoto to Osaka as well, when you finish visiting the famous spots.

On the downside, Osaka Umeda Station is a short distance from Osaka Station, and boarding from intermediate stations may mean limited seating availability. Overall, it’s the most money-saving option from Osaka to Kyoto.

– Keihan Railway: Convenient Access to Popular Attractions for both Osaka and Kyoto

The Keihan Main Line is a route that runs from Sanjo Station in Kyoto to Yodoyabashi Station in Osaka.

A key feature of the Keihan Line is that many of its stations are located near popular tourist attractions. For example, Yodoyabashi Station is close to the Nakanoshima Museum of Art in Osaka, while Sanjo Station offers easy access to Heian Shrine and Yasaka Shrine.

Additionally, it’s a convenient route for visiting famous spots like Fushimi Inari Taisha, Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine, and the local amusement park Hirakata Park.

3. Limousine Bus: A Convenient Way to Travel from Osaka Airport to Kyoto

Nowadays, buses may seem slower, but they can actually be quite convenient. For those looking to travel directly from the airport to Kyoto, trust me—the Limousine Bus is a great choice. You can head straight to Kyoto without any transfers, giving you a chance to rest on the way. Plus, traveling with large luggage on trains can be quite inconvenient.

There are two Limousine Bus routes available: one from Kansai International Airport and another from Osaka (Itami) Airport to Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Exit.