Private car transfer from Osaka to Kyoto

Door-to-door
in 1 hour
From €34
per seat
Comfortable
car
One way
One way
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024
Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Osaka.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 1 hour.

  • Optional sight-seeing
  • Clean, comfortable car
  • Professional driver
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats
  • Prepared for handicapped
  • Smoke-free
  • Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Kyoto.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
56 km1 hour

Overview: car trip from Osaka to Kyoto

Set off on a car trip from Osaka to Kyoto, one that guarantees fun and picturesque scenery. This 38-mile (56 km) distance drive typically takes about an hour, but who's in a rush? Soon after leaving the busy city of Osaka, you will be whirling past Kurondo Nature Park and its scenic views. Imagine yourself meandering through the little city of Uji, where you can visit local tea houses and old temples.

A private car transfer with Daytrip guarantees a comfortable, stress-free experience where you are free to add optional site-seeing packages. Whether your path is straightforward or cruising through backroads, you can customize your trip to include unique stops, transforming this short transfer into an adventure. Get ready, let your professional driver take the wheel, and get ready for the road from Osaka to Kyoto to be as unforgettable as the destination itself.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan's cultural center, is a city that deftly combines modern appeal with old customs. Kyoto presents a fascinating range of experiences tucked among calm temples and busy markets. Imagine strolling across the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its seemingly endless path of vivid torii gates. Alternatively, you can lose yourself in the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), where the shimmering gold leaf reflects in a calm pond.

From the classic tea houses in Gion, where geishas still perform their art, to the ancient Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kyoto's rich history is evident everywhere. Seasonal celebrations like the amazing cherry blossoms in spring or the vibrant autumn foliage enhance the charm of the city.

Foodies will equally find Kyoto's culinary scene to be very appealing. At Nishiki Market, sometimes referred to as "Kyoto's Kitchen, savor regional cuisine, including yudofu (hot water tofu) and kaiseki, a multi-course meal. The busy market environment and range of fresh produce and snacks provide a sensory feast.

Kyoto offers an enchanted experience whether your interests are in visiting the historic temples, strolling through Zen gardens, or savoring a traditional tea ceremony. Any visitor should make sure to visit this destination as it combines vibrant culture with historical appeal.

From Osaka to Kyoto: travel tips

Planning your Osaka to Kyoto transfer? Here are some handy tips to make your journey seamless and enjoyable.

Explore scenic stops by car

If you prefer a leisurely pace, consider a private car transfer. This allows you to fully enjoy the journey between these two cities, stop at scenic sites like the city of Nara, and have your heart captured by the free-roaming deer in Nara Park. Enjoy the flexibility and picturesque views along the way.

Don't underestimate travel time

Although Osaka and Kyoto are not far apart, budget extra time for holidays or busy periods. Booking beforehand is smart since trains and buses can get packed.

Use a JR Rail Pass

If you are using the train, think about getting a JR Rail Pass. If you intend to visit other locations as well, it is a reasonably priced choice since JR trains—including the Shinkansen bullet train offer unlimited travel.

How to get from Osaka to Kyoto

Getting from Osaka to Kyoto is a breeze, with various transportation options that cater to different preferences and budgets.

Train from Osaka to Kyoto

The Shinkansen bullet train is the most popular mode of transportation between Shin-Osaka Station and Kyoto Station, taking 15 minutes to complete the journey. Train tickets range from $15 to $25, depending on the type of train and class. The JR Special Rapid Service is an alternative option that takes 30 minutes and costs approximately $3.50.

  • Price: $3.50 to $25 depending on train service
  • Duration: 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the train service

Private car transfer from Osaka to Kyoto

Daytrip's private car transfers give the most flexibility. The 38-mile (56 km) drive takes around an hour and allows you to add sightseeing stops at intriguing places along the way. Add packages to your transfer to stop at locations like the thousand-year-old shrine Iwashimizu Hachimangu and see the cherry blossoms at Akutagawa Sakurazutsumi Park.

Costing $51 per seat, this option is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and prefer to explore at their own leisure. The closest airport to Kyoto is Osaka International Airport, and there are no direct trains traveling via this route, so a private car transfer is another good option instead of taking the Airport Limousine Bus.

  • Price: starting from $51 per seat
  • Duration: approximately 1 hour

Cycle from Osaka to Kyoto

Cycling between Osaka and Kyoto can be an enjoyable journey for the adventurous. Depending on your speed and the route you choose, the trip should take around 3 to 4 hours. Besides being a green mode of transportation, it also gives you a more immersive experience traveling through the gorgeous landscape.

Things to do when you get to Kyoto

Once you get there, you will find a wealth of historical and cultural treasures waiting for you in Kyoto. Here are some activities to help make your trip even more memorable.

Walk to Fushimi Inari Shrine

Renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which create a hypnotic trail up Mount Inari, Fushimi Inari Shrine is a must-visit. Individuals or companies contribute each gate to symbolize their wishes for prosperity and good fortune. With small shrines and breathtaking views all along, the climb through these gates presents a calm and stunning experience.

Although the whole path takes 2 to 3 hours, you are free to tour smaller portions if you want. The spiritual ambiance and the striking contrast of red gates against lush greenery make it a perfect spot for both tranquility and photography.

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

If you are searching for an enchanting spot to escape from the city, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. As you make your way through the towering bamboo stalks, it's like you've stepped into another world. The grove is serene and tranquil, and it has stunning scenery. Photographers and anybody else seeking tranquility will find it particularly enticing.

Nearby, on the Hozu River, you can take a boat ride to the UNESCO World Heritage Tenryu-ji Temple. Arashiyama is a flexible location because of the mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Stroll around Nishiki Market

Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," Nishiki Market is bustling with activity. Covering five blocks, the market is packed with vendors of fresh vegetables, fish, and locally grown produce. Kyoto's unique food is best tasted here, from traditional sweets to savory nibbles like yubi (tofu skin) and tsukemono (pickles).

Foodies wishing to experience Kyoto's real flavors will find the market perfect since its energetic environment offers a window into local life. While you're there, be sure to sample some matcha treats!

When is the best time to visit Kyoto

While any time of year is great for a visit to Kyoto, the pleasant weather in the fall and spring makes these seasons most popular.

Kyoto in spring (March to May)

Cherry blossoms and comfortable temperatures make spring in Kyoto perfect. Some noteworthy events are the Aoi Matsuri festival and the Hanami cherry blossom viewing.

  • Average temperatures: 50° F to 70 °F (10-21° C)
  • Weather: mild and sunny with occasional showers

Kyoto in summer (June to August)

Summer in Kyoto is hot and humid, and the rainy season is from June to July. Events like Gion Matsuri and Daimonji Bonfire take place during summertime.

  • Average temperatures: 70°F to 90°F (21-32° C)
  • Weather: hot and humid with frequent rain

Kyoto in autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Kyoto brings lower temperatures and golden foliage. Enjoy the Jidai Matsuri festival and colorful leaves at temples.

  • Average temperatures: 50° F to 75 °F (10-24° C)
  • Weather: mild and sunny with occasional rain

Kyoto in winter (December to February)

Winter in Kyoto is cool and peaceful, and it is great for exploring without crowds. Experience the quiet beauty of snow-covered temples. Enjoy events like the Yamashina Gishi Festival and Tōka Ebisu.

  • Average temperatures: 30 °F to 50° F (-1-10°C)
  • Weather: cold and dry with occasional snowfall

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Osaka to Kyoto

What is the easiest way to get from Osaka to Kyoto?
The easiest way to get from Osaka to Kyoto is by taking the Shinkansen bullet train. It’s fast, efficient, and takes about 15 minutes. Daytrip’s private car transfer is another easy option, offering comfort and personalized stops along the way.
Is Kyoto a day trip from Osaka?
Kyoto is not far from Osaka, so it makes a great day trip. The short travel distance and fast train choices—like the Shinkansen—make it easy to visit Kyoto's main attractions and get back to Osaka that same day if you don’t choose to stay the night.
How much is a bullet train from Osaka to Kyoto?
Depending on the type and seat class, a Shinkansen bullet train ticket from Osaka to Kyoto runs between $15 to $25.
Is it better to go to Osaka or Kyoto first?
It depends on your interests and your travel schedule. If you like energetic city life, shopping, and nightlife, start with Osaka. Start with Kyoto if your interests lie more in historical landmarks, classic culture, and peaceful settings.
What is the fastest way to get from Osaka to Kyoto?
Traveling from Osaka to Kyoto via the Shinkansen bullet train is the most efficient and quickest method. The journey is approximately 15 minutes long and is both fast and comfortable.
How do I get from Osaka to Kyoto?
The Shinkansen bullet train takes just 15 minutes to travel, a train takes 30 minutes, a bus takes 1 to 1.5 hours, and a private car service takes an hour to get from Osaka to Kyoto. Each option has benefits; hence, choose what fits your taste and schedule most.

Visit these sights on the way

Nara Park

Nara Park

Have your heart captured by the hundreds of freely roaming deer that have come to symbolize Nara, in this sprawling urban park. Deer Dreamland 

Nara

Nara

The capital city of Nara Prefecture in Japan offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Sanctuary of the Deer 

Akutagawa Sakurazutsumi Park

Akutagawa Sakurazutsumi Park

Located in the Bunkyō ward, this park is renowned for its breathtaking cherry blossoms, making it a popular destination during springtime. Koinobori Wonderland 

Iwashimizu Hachimangu

Iwashimizu Hachimangu

This thousand-year-old shrine complex sits atop Mt. Otokoyama, surrounded by nature and history. Serenity Atop Otokoyama 

Uji

Uji

This city’s enchantment extends from its tea heritage to its riverside allure, ancient shrines, and historic treasures, capturing the essence of Japan's cultural tapestry. Tea Treasures 

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

This captivating spectacle of bamboo trees offers a unique and immersive experience that transports visitors to another realm. Bamboo Euphoria 

Why people love Daytrip

Tripadvisor logo
5,100+ reviews
  • 783 travelers took this route with us
Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C
Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137
Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L
Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N
Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO
Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M
Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861
Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte
Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R
Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

  • Big luggage
  • 29x21x11 inches
  • 74x53x28 cm
  • Small luggage
  • 22x14x9 inches
  • 56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.
Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.
For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.
Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!
Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.
Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

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