Transport in Kyoto

Since it was my first time in Osaka, I didn't do any research beforehand and got a bit lost trying to find my way. I also had a little trouble finding my tickets because I had paper tickets instead of QR codes. I scanned the QR code at the ticket machine, issued the tickets, selected my seats, and received two physical tickets. There's also a counter right next to it where you can get an Icoca card, so minors or those without Apple Pay can handle both at once. They'll issue an Icoca card for 2000 yen.

The Sagano Romantic Train is definitely one of the experiences worth trying when visiting Kyoto! The train takes you through beautiful mountain scenery, lush forests, and breathtaking views of the Hozugawa River. The ride lasts around 25 minutes, but the views make every minute worthwhile. The vintage-style train adds a nostalgic charm to the experience, making it feel like a journey back in time. We visited as a family with our four-year-old son, and it was a wonderful experience for all of us. It’s a relaxing activity, especially after exploring the busy streets of Kyoto. I highly recommend booking tickets in advance and choosing seats with good views. Autumn is an especially beautiful time to visit. Overall, a memorable and family-friendly experience that I would definitely recommend to anyone visiting Kyoto!

most convenient, stress-free ways to travel between Kansai International Airport (KIX). Unlike trains that may require transfers at major hubs, the bus takes you directly. Ground staff tag and store your large bags in the cargo compartment underneath the bus. You receive a luggage slip to reclaim your bags at your destination, saving you from navigating crowded train aisles with bulky items. The buses are clean, air-conditioned, and generally offer spacious seating.

5-day JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass is an excellent choice for travellers who want to explore multiple destinations in western Japan while saving money on transportation. I purchased from Klook for ¥12,000 and received an e-voucher. At Kansai International Airport, I was able to scan the QR code at a green ticket vending machine to collect my physical pass, which was very convenient. During my trip, I used the pass to visit Wakayama, Himeji, Kyoto, Kobe, Okayama, Nachi Falls, and Dojo-ji Temple in Gobo. It was especially useful for covering long-distance journeys. I used the Limited Express Kuroshio, which requires reserved seating on certain services, on three separate days. The trains were comfortable, spacious, and very convenient for travelling longer distances. On other days, I took the Nozomi Shinkansen to Himeji to visit Shoshazan Engyoji Temple and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge at Maiko station.

Activated this pass when we had 5 days remaining in Osaka and used it well. Worth every penny, especially because we rode the shinkansen to Hiroshima and back for our day trip. Also went to airport area twice (had to go to Rinkutown) so that pass was so useful. Recommending this for travelers who would want to make the most of their 5 days in Kansai area!

This pass is ideal for traveling to Nara, offering free train and bus travel within the city. (1) This online pass should be activated on the day of travel, starting at Namba Station, and you should find the Kintetsu Line route. (2) To activate, click on the voucher and select "start using." (3) There is a train schedule; choose a Limited Express train to Kintetsu-Nara. This pass does not include advance seat reservations. (4) Upon reaching the destination station, exit via the East Exit and walk along Noborioji-cho Road towards Nara Park, or take a Nara Kotsu bus from in front of the station to the Todaiji Daibutsuden/Kasugataisha-mae stop. - I personally walked to see the deer park and Todaiji Temple on the way there, and took the bus back to the station. (5) You can visit Todaiji Temple (Great Buddha), but there is an admission fee for the interior of the temple. (6) This pass can also be used to ride the Cable Car to enjoy the atmosphere at the mountaintop, which has an amusement park. From Nara Station, take the train back to Ikoma Station. Upon exiting the station, turn left, and you will see a sign for the Cable Car. When you arrive, there will be a "Welcome" sign. You can show the QR code to the staff and take two cable car rides. Unfortunately, this pass cannot be used for amusement park rides, but it is still considered a good value.

this pass was the best. it was so useful in getting us to places and so convenient to use. the only downside is if you link multiple QRs in one account then it takes time to switch from one person to another.

Redeeming the ticket is a bit confusing especially at a crowded station, but the staff at the tourist counter at level 3 was very helpful and helped me book the ticket as well as reserving seats. Otherwise the process was super smooth and I made it to Fukui with no problems.

Remember to redeem it first at the Limon Welcome Desk in Terminal 1 of Kansai International Airport. The location is easy to find, and a map is included to help you plan your itinerary. Since it pays for itself if you take more than 5 rides on the day of use, it is ideal for a day trip to Kyoto.