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.
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
沿途参观这些景点
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
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
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
This thousand-year-old shrine complex sits atop Mt. Otokoyama, surrounded by nature and history. Serenity Atop Otokoyama
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
This captivating spectacle of bamboo trees offers a unique and immersive experience that transports visitors to another realm. Bamboo Euphoria
每位乘客可以携带一件大行李（29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm）和一件小行李（22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm）。豪华轿车最多可容纳 2 件大行李。我们始终会为您安排最合适的车辆，以确保您的行李能够容纳。如有超大行李，或您不确定行李是否能放下，请 联系我们。
