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From KIX Airport to Kyoto: Train, Bus, and Alternatives
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Learn how to travel from KIX Airport to Kyoto by train, bus, and other options, along with tips for handling late-night flight arrivals.
Written by
Born in Taipei, Taiwan. I worked in the inbound tourism industry in Kyoto, writing a blog about travel in Japan. I joined MATCHA in October 2019.
Hobbies: travel, watching trains, visiting stylish cafes, sweets, collecting seal stamps, watching musicals, taking photos, and others - so many, in fact, that I find it weird myself.
From Kansai Airport (KIX) to Kyoto City
KIX Airport, or Kansai International Airport, is the major airport serving the Kansai region of Japan, which includes Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and other cities.
Located approximately 100 km south of Kyoto, KIX Airport is situated in the southwest of Osaka. Therefore, you will need to use additional transportation to reach Kyoto from the airport.
If your flight arrives or departs late at night, consider staying at a hotel near KIX Airport. Alternatively, the airport is open 24 hours and features several convenience stores that operate around the clock, offering snacks and essentials.
Please also refer to the information for late-night and early-morning passengers on the official website of Kansai Airport.
In this guide, we will explain the best ways to travel from KIX Airport to Kyoto, highlighting the fastest, most cost-effective, and hassle-free options.
1. JR Kansai Airport Express HARUKA: Fast and Comfortable
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Kyoto Station from Kansai Airport is by taking the JR Kansai Airport Express HARUKA.
This limited express train departs every 30 minutes, and the journey from KIX Airport to Kyoto Station takes about one hour and 15 minutes.
A one-way adult ticket from KIX Airport to Kyoto costs 2,200 yen, while a ticket with reserved seating is priced at 3,640 yen. Children's fares are half the price of adult fares.
We recommend purchasing the reserved seat ticket to ensure a comfortable ride to Kyoto.
If you're using a JR Pass, you should know that the Haruka Express is covered by the JR Pass but you might still want to reserve your seat for an additional 1,440 yen to travel in comfort.
After leaving the airport, the JR Kansai Airport Express HARUKA first stops at Osaka's Tennoji Station and Shin-Osaka Station before finally arriving at Kyoto Station.
It is also ideal for travelers transferring to destinations like Nijo, Fushimi, Yamashina, and the Shiga Prefecture area. If you are planning to go to central Kyoto, such as Shijo Karasuma and Kawaramachi, it's best to take the subway or a bus after getting off the train at Kyoto Station.
2. By Limousine Bus: A Less Expensive and Hassle-free Option
If you take the limousine bus from KIX Airport to Kyoto Station, the journey will take approximately one hour and 40 minutes and cost 2,800 yen.
The limousine bus departs from bus stop no. 8 at Terminal 1 and bus stop no. 2 at Terminal 2, with services every 20 minutes.
We recommend the limousine bus for travelers with a lot of luggage.
Depending on the type of bus, there is direct access to various locations in Kyoto, including Karasuma Station and Sanjo Keihan Station.
Please note that expressway traffic conditions can vary by day, so the bus may not arrive at its destination on time. We suggest using the bus when you have sufficient time and are not in a hurry.
To use the bus, head to the first floor and purchase your ticket from the ticket machine located outside the building.
For details on the bus schedule and bus fare, please refer to the Kansai Airport Official Website (bus information).
3. By Train on the Nankai Electric Line: The Cheapest Fare
If you use Nankai Electric Railway's Kyoto Access Ticket, a one-way adult fare from KIX Airport to Kyoto Station is only 1,790 yen—the cheapest fare available.
The journey involves two train transfers and takes about two hours. At Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station, which is Kyoto's main shopping and entertainment area, you can disembark to visit this popular sightseeing spot directly from the airport.
The Kyoto Access Ticket can be purchased at various locations, including the Nankai Electric Railway ticket counter.
Once you have your ticket, board the Nankai Airport Line at Kansai Airport Station and head to Tengachaya Station. Then transfer to Osaka Metro's Sakaisuji Line and travel to Tenjinbashisuji 6-chome Station. Here, you'll switch to the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line and arrive at your final destination: Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station.
For more details on the Kyoto Access Ticket, please refer to the Nankai Electric Railway Official Website.
Other Options by Train: the JR Lines
It takes two hours to travel from Kansai Airport Station to Kyoto Station using JR Lines, with a stop at Osaka Station along the way. At a one-way adult fare of only 1,890 yen, this option is recommended for those looking to travel economically, even if it requires a bit more time.
In the photo above, you can see the blue-colored JR Line entrance sign inside Kansai Airport Station.
4. Taxi: Kansai Airport Transfer Flat-Fee Taxi
Photo by Pixta
We recommend the Kansai Airport Transfer Flat-Fee Taxi for seniors and travelers with children heading to Kyoto.
While the fare is more expensive compared to other modes of transportation, it offers the convenience of specifying your destination and being taken directly there.
For details on how to make the most of this taxi service and information about taxi fares, please refer to the official websites of the two companies that provide this service: MK Limousine and Taxi Service and nearMe.
Luggage Delivery: Travel Light and Stress-Free
Photo by Pixta
Kansai International Airport provides convenient luggage delivery services. You can easily arrange for your bags to be sent directly to your hotel in Kyoto or other destinations.
Prices for this service vary based on the size of the luggage and the delivery distance, making it an ideal option for travelers who want to enjoy a hands-free experience and make the most of their arrival day. To set up delivery on the spot, simply look for the counters in the arrivals hall.
Enjoy Your Trip to Kyoto
Kansai Airport offers visitors a variety of transportation options, including trains, buses, and taxis.
Travelers looking to reach Kyoto in the shortest time can take the JR Kansai Airport Express HARUKA. For those seeking the lowest fare, the Kyoto Access Ticket is a great choice. Please select the transportation mode that best suits your travel style!
We hope this article serves as a helpful reference when planning your next visit to Kyoto.
Written by
Born in Taipei, Taiwan. I worked in the inbound tourism industry in Kyoto, writing a blog about travel in Japan. I joined MATCHA in October 2019.
Hobbies: travel, watching trains, visiting stylish cafes, sweets, collecting seal stamps, watching musicals, taking photos, and others - so many, in fact, that I find it weird myself.
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