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Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka, Osaka from $2: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Kyoto, Japan
to
Osaka, Japan

How to Get from Kyoto to Osaka: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$2 by trainBest price
43.45 kmDistance
45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kyoto to Osaka with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Keihan Electric Railway
Train
Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$2-4
Recommended
Company
Keihan Electric Railway
Train
Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$2-4
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 43.45 km
Duration: 45m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$6-9
Company
Airport Limousine Bus (Hankyu Kanko Bus)
Bus
Average Duration
1h  48m
Estimated price
$11-14
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$130-170
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Traveling From Kyoto to Osaka

Embarking on the journey from Kyoto to Osaka offers you a fascinating contrast between Kyoto's rich history and serene temples and Osaka's vibrant nightlife and culinary delights.

Best Neighbourhoods in Osaka

Osaka's neighborhoods each showcase distinct cultural flavors and attractions.

Dotonbori
• Famous for neon lights and street food.
• Offers a lively riverside atmosphere.
Namba
• A hub for shopping and entertainment.
• Connects to major subway lines easily.
Umeda
• Features impressive skyscrapers and malls.
• Home to stunning rooftop views.

Best Times To Visit Osaka's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Osaka experience.

Osaka Castle
Visit early in the morning for peaceful exploration and fewer tourists.
Universal Studios Japan
Weekdays during the off-peak season mean shorter lines and better access.
Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade
Evenings on weekdays provide a lively atmosphere with less congestion.

Osaka Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Osaka features a humid subtropical climate, bringing hot summers and mild winters, making spring and autumn the ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Understanding weather patterns can greatly enhance your travel experience, allowing you to pack appropriately and plan outdoor activities effectively.

Dining Recommendation

Try the local favorite, okonomiyaki, at a lively spot like Chibo, where you can savor the savory pancake filled with fresh ingredients cooked right before your eyes. This interactive dining experience sets itself apart from Kyoto's refined kaiseki style, offering you bold flavors and a vibrant atmosphere that captures Osaka's culinary spirit.

Kyoto - Osaka operators

Explore transport companies operating between Kyoto and Osaka, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
06-6945-4560
Website
https://www.keihan.co.jp/travel/en/

Train from Shichijo to Yodoyabashi

Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$2-4
Contact phone
0570-089-500
Website
https://www.hankyu.co.jp/global/en/

Train from Omiya to Osaka-umeda

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$2-4
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
06-6844-1124
Website
https://www.okkbus.co.jp/en/

Bus from Kyoto Station Hachijou gate to Osaka Itami Airport South Terminal

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$8-10

Bus from Osaka Itami Airport to Herbis Osaka

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$3-5
Taxi
Website
null

Taxi from Kyoto to Osaka

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$130-170

Kyoto to Osaka: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Kyoto and Osaka offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Set out on a picturesque journey from Kyoto to Osaka, covering a distance of 35 miles in just 45 minutes by car. Enjoy the smooth roads and beautiful scenery along the way. 💸 Experience the convenience of flexible pricing options ranging from $6 to $9 for a comfortable and cost-effective ride from Kyoto to Osaka. Plan your budget accordingly for this quick and affordable trip.
Average price
$6 - $9
🚆 Departing from Shichijo station in Kyoto, you can catch a direct train to Osaka's Yodoyabashi station. Services operate every day, departing every 10 minutes, making it a convenient and frequent option. 🛤️ The journey between Kyoto and Osaka by train takes approximately 48 minutes, offering a quick and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant cities in Japan. The Keihan Electric Railway operates this route, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers. 💵 Ticket prices for the train from Kyoto to Osaka range from $2 to $4, providing an affordable transportation option for travelers looking to explore the cultural and culinary delights of Osaka from the historic city of Kyoto.
Departure Point
Shichijo station
Arrival Point
Yodoyabashi station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: On the Shinkansen (bullet train) line between Kyoto and Osaka, you will find catering carts that offer a variety of refreshments, including bento boxes, snacks, drinks (including sake), and even desserts. The Nozomi and Hikari services typically provide the best selection. It’s a good idea to have cash ready, as not all services accept credit cards.
• Seating Options: The Shinkansen offers several seating classes, including Ordinary (Economy), Green Car (First Class), and Gran Class (Luxury). The Ordinary class is comfortable for most travelers, while the Green Car provides more spacious seating and amenities. Gran Class offers even more luxurious seating and complimentary meals and drinks. Booking in advance is recommended during peak travel times.
• Arrival Station Tip: Once you arrive at Osaka Station, follow the signs to the Central Concourse for easy navigation. There are coin lockers available for your luggage if you want to explore the city hands-free. Restrooms are located throughout the station, and while showers are not available, many nearby hotels offer day-use facilities.
🚌 Passengers will need to transfer at Osaka Itami Airport, with the entire trip taking approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes. 🚌 The ticket prices for the bus ride between these two cities range from $11 to $14, making it an affordable and efficient way to travel within Japan.
Departure Point
Kyoto Station Hachijou gate
Arrival Point
Herbis Osaka station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kyoto to Osaka.

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The distance between Kyoto and Osaka is approximately 27 miles or 33 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 30 minutes to reach Osaka from Kyoto by train, approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes by bus, and roughly an hour by car.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Kyoto to Osaka is by train. It takes approximately 33 minutes and costs between $2 and $15. Another option is to drive, which takes around 40 minutes and costs between $5 and $9. Both options provide convenient and relatively quick ways to travel between the two cities.
The prices for traveling from Kyoto to Osaka vary depending on the mode of transportation. For train travel, the prices can range from $2 to $15. If you prefer to take the bus, the prices generally range from $11 to $14. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific train or bus service chosen.
To travel from Kyoto to Osaka without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance between Kyoto and Osaka is approximately 33 miles, and it usually takes about 40 minutes to drive from one city to the other. The cost of driving from Kyoto to Osaka can vary, ranging from $5 to $9 for fuel and tolls.
To travel from Kyoto to Osaka without a car, the best option is to take the train. The train journey takes approximately 33 minutes and costs between $2 to $15. Trains are a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities, with frequent departures throughout the day. The train ride offers scenic views of the Japanese countryside and allows you to reach Osaka quickly and easily.
Yes, there is a direct link between Kyoto and Osaka. Trains depart from Kyoto station and arrive at Osaka station, with services operating every five minutes and taking approximately 33 minutes. Unfortunately, there is no direct bus from Kyoto station to Osaka, but it is possible to take a bus from Kyoto Station Hachijou gate to Herbis Osaka, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Osaka. With over 1219 hotels to choose from, you can find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at just $19 per night, offering affordable choices for travelers. You can easily find and book a hotel that fits your needs, whether you prefer luxury amenities or a budget-friendly stay.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Kyoto to Osaka by bicycle. The distance of the route is approximately, and it takes approximately to reach Osaka from Kyoto by bike. Some people enjoy biking between the two cities as it allows them to enjoy the scenic route and explore the beautiful countryside along the way. However, it is important to be prepared for the physical exertion and ensure that you have the necessary gear and knowledge of traffic rules for a safe journey.