How to get from Kyoto to Osaka

Getting from Kyoto to Osaka with limited express trains

Getting from Kyoto to Osaka by train

For many, the Kansai Region of Japan is defined by two prominent cities: Kyoto and Osaka. Despite being geographically nearby, the environments of the two cities differ immensely while maintaining the core Kansai DNA. Getting from Kyoto to Osaka is made easy using either the locally-beloved Thunderbird Limited Express Train or the Haruka Limited Express Train that is often used for getting to and from Kansai International Airport. 

Kyoto is often seen as the city that embodies traditional Japan. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the former capital of Japan up until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Every street in Kyoto is teeming with stories and history, and picturesque scenes that are often representative of Japan exist just a short walk from modern urbanscapes.

Osaka is the third most populous city in Japan, with a lively environment and rich culture to reflect that. Wander around the old-school streets of Shinsekai and Dotonbori and eat some delicious street food like takoyaki. Then, take a look at the historical sites nestled within the urban landscape, such as the ancient Mozu Tombs, and prepare for the 2025 Worlds Fair that wil be held in Osaka by visiting the Tower of the Sun, designed by Taro Okamoto for the last Worlds Fair to be held in Osaka back in 1985!

Japan’s famous train system is the key to seeing both destinations and getting the full experience of Kansai, which ought not to be missed for your next trip! The Shinkansen bullet train using the Tokaido Sanyo Line makes the journey quick and simple, getting from Kyoto to Osaka in just a bit under 15 minutes.  Both the Thunderbird Limited Express Train and the Haruka will depart from Kyoto Station. The Haruka Limited Express Train will go all the way out to Kansai International Airport, with a stop at Osaka Station in between. The two limited express trains will take a bit more time compared to the Shinkansen bullet train. Additionally, the local Keihan Line can be ridden all the way from Kyoto to Osaka. This option takes the most time and doesn’t have the option to reserve seats, but can still be a viable and convenient option if needed. All these trains are rideable with the Japan Rail Pass, however, riding the Nozomi Shinkansen bullet train, will entail an extra cost with the Japan Rail Pass. 

Trains available on this itinerary:

NOTE: Osaka Station is NOT the final stop for Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen trains or Limited Express Trains. These trains will often go past Osaka Station, so be wary of the stops on your journey and preparing ahead of time to disembark, especially as the journey between Kyoto and Osaka is shorter than other itineraries. 

Reserving seats on the train in Japan

On Shinkansen and Limited Expres trains, individual ticket holders and holders of Japan Rail Passes can reserve seats in advance of boarding. Reservations are not always required for these trains because many of them have non-reserved cars with seats that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. These are often car numbers 1-4.

There are some trains when all cars require a reservation, even though a lot of people utilize the train services during these hours. However, we also strongly advise all visitors to try and book reservations for tickets during Japan's busiest travel seasons, which include the spring and the New Year's holiday. When purchasing a single ticket, a reserved seat costs more; however, Japan Rail Pass users will not be charged an additional cost. 

Exploring Kyoto

Kyoto, the historic capital of Japan, is a culturally vibrant city brimming with history and home to 17 distinct UNESCO Heritage Sites. Kyoto is situated in the Kansai region, a culturally varied area of Japan renowned for its colorful locations. For visitors taking the Japan Golden Route, Kyoto is frequently the next stop after Tokyo.

The temple itself and the ascent to Kyomizudera are two of Kyoto's most famous sights, and both are worthwhile excursions. Explore a little off the usual route; the hilly lanes leading up to the temple are lined with quaint stores and eateries! Then, Ginkakuji and Kinkakuji, the "gold and silver temples," serve as potent representations of Kyoto's lengthy past. 

Travelers arrive at Kyoto Station and are immediately in the heart of the historic capital. Not many towns in the world can match Kyoto's distinction of being the first city to commemorate its 1200th anniversary—a feat that was accomplished in 1997 when the station underwent its current design by renowned architect Hiroshi Hara. There are a few convenience stores, cafes, and restaurants inside the station, however, it is not as big as other important stations like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, or even Hakata Station. Nonetheless, the lit staircase—whose display varies with the season—is one of Kyoto Station's most identifiable features. Conveniently located near the station, the well-liked Ume-yu is a sento bathouse  with a charming atmosphere that's perfect for lounging and passing the time in a relaxed, residential area, complete with unique and eccentric merchandise to bring home.  

Exploring Osaka

Osaka, the most populous city in Kansai and the third most populous city in all of Japan, is well-known for its energetic atmosphere, delicious street cuisine, and eccentric set of  locals. Tokyo is generally seen as Osaka's partner city—or adversary, depending on who you ask. It is also often cited as a partner city to Kyoto, the other city said to represent Kansai that is also very nearby. 

The tower is still on display at Expo Park for visitors to see. A must-see location for anybody interested in even more ancient history is the Mozu Tombs, which house a number of fifth-century kofun (burial tombs). A unique historic landmark among the contemporary structures in the Osaka metropolitan area are these old burial grounds. The burial grounds vary in size and shape when viewed from above; the larger ones resemble key holes. 

The definitive Kansai experience

Using a combination of both the iconic Thunderbird Limited Express Train and the Haruka Limited Express Train, the journey between two of Japan’s most culture-rich cities, Kyoto and Osaka, is made easy! Witness history and modern-day beauty with this itinerary, taking not even two hours of transit using some of the world’s most cutting edge means of transportation.