How to get from Kyoto to Osaka by train, bus and car
Kyoto and Osaka are some of the top cities to visit in Japan. Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital, is home to iconic spots like the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Nishiki Market, and Gion’s Geisha District.
On the other hand, Japan's second-biggest city Osaka is known for its modern attractions such as Universal Studios Japan, Dotonbori, and teamLab Osaka, just to name a few!
Great news for those who want to cover both Kyoto and Osaka — there are many convenient ways to get from Kyoto to Osaka and vice versa. You can get from Kyoto to Osaka in under 20 minutes!
This Japan guide covers the different ways to travel between Kyoto and Osaka, how much the journey costs, and what train lines you can take.
1. How to get from Kyoto to Osaka by train
There's a reason the Shinkansen is also known as a 'bullet train.' Credits to @busycitykids on Instagram
With Japan’s extensive rail network that covers the entire country, it’s no surprise that the most popular way to get from Kyoto to Osaka is by train, including options like the Hankyu Railway and Keihan Railway, which are part of the private rail lines available.
Another consideration when deciding what route to take is what rail passes you have. This can significantly enhance your travel experience, allowing for unlimited rides on various train lines, including the Shinkansen or JR lines, which offer flexibility for planning journeys between Kyoto and Osaka.
Via bullet train: Tokaido Shinkansen Line (12min)
The fastest way to travel from Kyoto to Osaka is via the Tokaido Shinkansen line — Japan's busiest Shinkansen line which connects Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. This high-speed Shinkansen from Kyoto to Osaka is managed by JR Central and takes just 12 minutes from Kyoto station to Shin-Osaka station.
Take note that Osaka has two main train stations: Shin-Osaka station and Osaka station. Shin-Osaka station is located in the business district and is where all the shinkansens stop in Osaka. Osaka station, on the other hand, is right at the heart of the city center and is the main hub for local trains and subways. No Shinkansen stops at Osaka Station.
From Shin-Osaka station, it's just a short 3-minute ride on the JR Kyoto Line to reach Osaka station. Alternatively, it's a 12-minute journey via the Midosuji subway line to Osaka station.
If you choose to take the Shinkansen from Kyoto station to Shin-Osaka station, tickets cost ¥1,450 for an unreserved seat or roughly ¥4,040 for a first-class reserved seat. This is the best route for Japan Rail Pass holders as it is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. If you do not have a JR Pass, you can also purchase individual train tickets.
Klook Tip: The Japan Rail Pass does not cover Nozomi trains on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. However, you can take the Hikari or Kodama trains when traveling from Kyoto station to Shin-Osaka station — the journey time is the same for this route!
The JR Pass starts from ¥50,000 for a whole Japan pass that covers Ordinary Car (second class) rides for 7, 14, or 21 days. It includes unlimited travel on JR buses, shinkansen lines, local trains, limited express trains, monorail, and even the Miyajima Ferry.
If you want to find out if the JR pass is gonna be worth it for your trip, we've got a calculator that'll help you!
Via local train: Keihan Railway Main Line (55min)
Unlock the wonders of Osaka's iconic sights with the Keihan Main Line, your swift and snazzy express ticket to adventure! Credits: flymm007 on Unsplash
Besides Shinkansens, there are also private rail lines that will take you from Kyoto to Osaka in under an hour. One way is to take the Keihan Main Line from Sanjo Station in Central Kyoto to Yodoyabashi Station in Osaka in 55 minutes. This train journey costs about ¥410.
This is a convenient route for those staying near Sanjo Station in Kyoto, which is close to Nikishi Market and Gion district. Yodoyabashi Station in Osaka is the closest station to Osaka City Hall. From here, take the Subway Midosuji Line which connects to Osaka’s major commercial and entertainment districts of Umeda and Namba.
Klook Tip: Kyoto & Osaka Sightseeing Pass includes unlimited travel access on the Keihan Line and Otokoyama Cable Line for 1 day or non-consecutive 2 days
Via local train: Private Hankyu Line (40min)
Another way to get from Kyoto to Osaka by location train is via the Hankyu private rail line. This route is good for those without a Japan Rail Pass.
Osaka-Umeda Station using the Hankyu line at Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station or Karasuma Station. Arrive in Osaka in 40 minutes for just ¥400.
Klook Tip: Opt for the limited express trains for more comfy seats and a quicker ride.
2. How to get from Kyoto to Osaka by bus services
Make sure you've seen all the best sights in Kyoto before you head over to Osaka. Credits to @thaonhile on Instagram
Although there are no direct bus rides from Kyoto to Osaka — there aren't any direct rides from Osaka to Kyoto either — you can still take at least two bus rides to reach Osaka.
Some services allow passengers to board the bus from Kyoto Station Hachijou Gate and alight at Osaka Itami Airport (55-minute ride), from which other buses will be able to take you to your accommodation.
You can also take the Keihan Bus from the many stations in Kyoto, and the bus will drop you off at either Hotel Keihan or Universal Studios Japan for 700 YEN in an hour.
3. How to get from Kyoto to Osaka by car
Driving from Kyoto is the best way to find hidden gems along the way, whether it's an underrated attraction or a cool photo spot! Credits to @raitatu_happy on Instagram
If you’ve got more time to spare, consider a road trip from Kyoto to Osaka! Rent a car in Kyoto and see the sights along the way to Osaka.
It’s not a long drive from Kyoto to Osaka — a roughly 40-50 minute car ride depending on traffic — which means you have the luxury to stop at attractions along the way on a day trip.
Along the way, consider dropping by Nara Park to see friendly deers, Ikuta Shrine in Kobe, and the must-see historic site of Osaka Castle, with its reconstructed main tower offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Osaka's medieval past.
It’s easy to rent a car in Japan, or if you prefer not to drive, hire a car charter instead. Additionally, a visit to Osaka Bay should not be missed for its stunning waterfront views and attractions like the Osaka Aquarium and Tempozan Harbor Village.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to get from Kyoto to Osaka?
Yes, it's easy to travel between Kyoto and Osaka! They're two major cities in the Kansai region of Japan, and they're conveniently connected by various transportation options, including trains, buses, and even taxis.
What is the best way to get from Kyoto to Osaka?
This largely depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. Generally, the most convenient and efficient option is to take the Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Shin-Osaka Station and then transfer to a local train or subway to reach your final destination in Osaka.
How much is the bullet train from Kyoto to Osaka?
Tickets for the Shinkansen from Kyoto station to Shin-Osaka station costs roughly ¥1,450 for an unreserved seat.
Can you visit Kyoto and Osaka on day trips?
Yes, you can! Since it takes less than an hour to travel between Kyoto and Osaka, it's easy to see either city on a day trip. However, there are plenty of things to do in Kyoto and Osaka — we'll recommend staying at least two nights in each city!
