ASIA: Side Trip to Kyoto 2016

Kyoto is also part of the Kansai region and is just 1.5 hours away from Osaka by train. Since we had an extra day in our itinerary, visiting Kyoto was a perfect way to make the most of our time. Japan is renowned for its cultural richness and historical treasures, and exploring Kyoto is a great way to immerse yourself in that heritage. This city has so much more to offer than meets the eye, with hidden gems nestled between buildings and busy streets. As you wander through Kyoto, you'll encounter people dressed in kimonos, ancient structures, temples, shrines, and a variety of historical sites that will surely captivate and inspire any visitor.

How to get to Kyoto?

Book a flight to Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka, and then take a bus or train to Kyoto.
From Osaka, I recommend traveling by train. While taking a bus is also an option, the train is more convenient and the quickest way to reach Kyoto.

We took the JR Kyoto Line from Osaka/Umeda Station (costing Y560 each) and got off at Kyoto Station. There are several options for traveling to Kyoto, depending on your starting point in Osaka and your destination in Kyoto. However, if you're a tourist like me, the JR Kyoto Line is the best choice for a direct route to Kyoto.

Where to stay in Kyoto?

We only spent a day there and returned to Osaka later that night. However, you could also book a room in the city to enjoy an extra day exploring Kyoto.

Should I take a bus or train when going on tour?

You can opt for both options, but if you're on a tight budget and concerned about locating train stations, taking a bus tour is ideal. Just outside the Kyoto Station, next to the bus station, you'll find a ticket office for bus tours. They offer unlimited day passes for tourists, costing Y500 per adult. After purchasing your ticket, you'll receive a map or list of bus stops. These buses stop at various attractions and famous landmarks around the city. If you're unsure about the next stops or where to get off, don’t worry—the buses have monitors at the front that display the upcoming stops, with translations in English.