Flying into Kansai International Airport (KIX)? You’re one step closer to Kyoto.
The good news? Getting there is easier than you might think.
Kyoto’s just 100 kilometres from the airport, but figuring out how to reach it — especially after a long flight — can feel a bit overwhelming.
Don’t worry. Whether you’re looking for the fastest, cheapest, or most comfortable way to travel, Japan makes it surprisingly easy for visitors to get around.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the best ways to get from Kansai Airport to Kyoto — from high-speed trains and easy buses to budget-friendly routes and private transfers.
Here’s how to make your journey stress-free in 2025.
JR Haruka Express Train to Kyoto: Fastest Route
If you're looking for the fastest and easiest way to get from Kansai International Airport to JR Kyoto Station, the JR Airport Express Haruka is hard to beat.
The train departs directly from Kansai Airport Station, so there’s no need to leave the terminal or deal with confusing transfers. It’s a direct ride to Kyoto, taking around 70 to 80 minutes. The journey is smooth and comfortable, with spacious seats, free Wi-Fi, and dedicated luggage racks.
Trains run about every 30 minutes, so you’ll never be waiting long.
A one-way ticket costs around 3,060 yen for an unreserved seat, or 3,500 yen if you prefer to book one in advance. If you have a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), the ride is fully covered.
No Japan Rail Pass? No worries.
JR Haruka Airport Express tickets are also available online, and we recommend booking ahead for peace of mind — especially during peak travel seasons.
The last Haruka Express departs at 10:15pm, making it a reliable choice even for evening arrivals. Once you reach Kyoto, you’re already in the city centre — and just a short ride away from most hotels by taxi, bus, or local train.
Oh, and the Haruka makes a few stops along the way, including Tennoji Station and Shin-Osaka, before reaching Kyoto.
Photo: @yoko_lost_in_japan on Instagram
Fun fact: if you're lucky, you might catch the Hello Kitty train from Kansai Airport to Kyoto — a special themed version of the Haruka, wrapped in pink and decorated with Sanrio characters. It runs on select schedules and is a hit with both families and fans of kawaii culture.
Kansai Airport Limousine Bus to Kyoto: Most Comfortable No-Transfer Option
If you’re after a smooth, no-fuss ride from the airport, the Kansai Airport limousine bus is a great option.
It’s a direct bus trip from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Station — no transfers, no stairs, and your luggage is handled for you.
The ride takes about 90 minutes, with buses departing regularly throughout the day.
Tickets cost around 2,600–2,800 yen per adult (half price for kids) and can be bought at the airport from a counter or ticket machine. Just follow the signs for “Limousine Bus” in the arrival hall — some services also connect with the Keihan Bus Center, depending on your route.
You’ll board just outside the terminal. Staff will tag and load your bags. Buses usually have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and toilets. Most drop off at Kyoto Station’s Hachijō-guchi exit, near the Avanti Building.
For late-night arrivals, this is often your best bet. The final bus leaves between 11pm and 11:55pm, later than the last Haruka train.
Traffic can cause delays, but under normal conditions, you’ll be in Kyoto in about an hour and a half.
To save time and avoid stress, we recommend booking your bus ticket in advance.
Local Trains: A Budget-Friendly Choice (But Not the Fastest)
Travelling on a tight budget? Or maybe you’ve got time to spare and a stop in central Osaka sounds like a fun way to break up the journey?
Good news — local trains from Kansai Airport to Kyoto are the most affordable option. You’ll save some yen and maybe even squeeze in an extra bowl of ramen. Here’s how it works:
Option 1: JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service + JR Kyoto Line
First, take the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service from Kansai Airport to Osaka Station — the ride takes about 70 minutes.
From there, transfer to the JR Kyoto Line Special Rapid Service, which gets you to Kyoto Station in another 30 minutes.
Some travellers also transfer at Shin-Osaka, depending on timing and final destination.
Total time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
Cost: Around 1,910 yen
JR Pass: Fully covered
This is perfect if you want to explore central Osaka or are staying near major stations like Osaka, Shin-Osaka, or Kyoto.
Just keep in mind that these are standard commuter trains — there are no reserved seats, luggage racks, or onboard Wi-Fi, and they can get crowded during peak hours.
Navigating Osaka Station can also be a bit tricky for first-timers, so allow some extra time if you're unfamiliar with the layout.
Option 2: Nankai Express Train + Sakaisuji Subway Line + Hankyu Kyoto Line
Start with the Nankai Airport Express train from Kansai Airport to Tengachaya Station. The ride takes about 40–50 minutes and is fully covered by the Kansai Thru Pass.
If you prefer a quieter, more comfortable start, consider upgrading to the Nankai Rapi:t — a faster, all-reserved version of the same route. Just note that it requires a surcharge of around 520 yen, which is not included in the Kansai Thru Pass.
From Tengachaya, transfer to the Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line (a subway line), which often through-runs directly onto the Hankyu Kyoto Line. That means in many cases, you may not need to change trains again.
Just stay on board until you reach downtown Kyoto, at Karasuma or Kawaramachi Station, in about an hour.
Total time: ~1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours Cost: 1,230–1,600 yen (fully covered by Kansai Thru Pass, except Rapi:t surcharge if applicable) JR Pass: Not valid
Best for: Travellers with a Kansai Thru Pass, or those staying near Hankyu Railways stops
This route takes a bit more navigating, so it’s best suited for confident travellers. But if you're heading to areas like Gion, Arashiyama, or downtown Kyoto, which are well-served by the Hankyu Kyoto Line, it might be the perfect fit.
Private Transfer & Taxi: The Ultimate Convenience
If you just want to get from the airport to your hotel with zero hassle, this is it.
Private transfers and taxis are by far the easiest way to reach Kyoto — especially if you’re tired, carrying heavy bags, or just not in the mood to deal with train transfers.
Of course, convenience comes at a cost.
Kansai Airport to Kyoto: Private Transfer
Book ahead and a driver will meet you at the arrivals hall (sign in hand), help with your luggage, and take you straight to your hotel in a private car or van.
No dragging bags through stations.
No timetables to figure out.
Travel time: About 90 minutes to 2 hours
Cost: Around 25,000–30,000 yen per vehicle
Best for: Families, groups, or anyone with lots of luggage
If you're travelling with others, the per-person cost can be quite reasonable. And even if your flight is delayed, your driver will still be there — though late-night surcharges may apply.
You can pre-book your ride online and just show your voucher when you land.
Regular Taxi from Kansai Airport to Kyoto
Kansai Airport Taxis are available at the airport — but they’re expensive. And we mean expensive.
A metered ride to Kyoto can easily cost 35,000–40,000 yen, depending on traffic. Some companies offer flat rates, but it’s usually still more than booking a private transfer in advance.
Honestly, taxis are best kept as a backup — say, if you arrive really late and everything else has stopped running.
Thinking of renting a car? You might want to wait until you get to Kyoto. It’s much easier to drive once you’ve had a rest and found your bearings.
Luggage Delivery: Travel Light
Don’t want to drag suitcases through train stations? Japan’s luggage delivery service (takuhaibin) is a lifesaver. You can send your bags straight from Kansai Airport to your Kyoto hotel, so you can travel hands-free.
After clearing customs at KIX, head to one of the luggage delivery counters in the arrivals area — like JAL ABC or Yamato Transport. Just provide your hotel’s address (staff can help if needed) and pay based on bag size.
Standard next-day delivery costs around 2,300–2,700 yen per bag. If you drop off your bags by early to mid-afternoon, you can now opt for same-day delivery, which gets your luggage to your hotel by 10:00pm — for 4,500 yen per bag.
This is especially useful if you’re taking the Haruka Express, local trains, or even the bus — no need to worry about luggage racks or crowded aisles.
Pro tip: Pack essentials in your carry-on, since you won’t see your suitcase until later. You can also use the service in reverse — have your hotel send your bags back to KIX the day before your flight.
Bottom line: If you’ve got bulky luggage or just want a smoother trip into Kyoto, luggage delivery is absolutely worth it.
Late Night / Early Morning Travel Tips
Japan’s transport system is amazing — but it doesn’t run 24/7. If you’re landing late or flying out early, here’s what to know:
Late Night Arrivals
Last Haruka Express (the last train from Kansai Airport to Kyoto): ~10:16pm
Last Limousine Bus: ~11:55pm from Terminal 1
If your flight lands after 10pm, the limousine bus is your safest bet. Arriving past midnight? You’ll need to either:
Stay overnight at Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport (connected to the terminal)
Use a shared shuttle or taxi (expensive but available late)
Wait it out at the airport (safe, with 24h lounges and shops)
Some travellers head into Osaka if there’s a late Nankai train running — and continue to Kyoto the next day.
Early Morning Departures
First Haruka from Kyoto: ~5:46am
Earliest Limousine Bus: ~4:30am, arrives KIX before 6am
If your flight is before 7am, it’s best to stay near the airport the night before — either at KIX or in Rinku Town (just one stop away).
Don’t forget: Kyoto’s local transport (buses, subways) doesn’t run at 3–4am, so arrange a taxi to Kyoto Station if you're catching an early train or bus.
For up-to-date schedules and transport options, check the Kansai Airport website before you travel.
Comparison Table: Kansai Airport to Kyoto Options
To help you compare the main transport options at a glance, here’s a quick summary of key differences in travel time, cost, and what each is best for:
Option | Travel Time | Approx. Cost | Transfers | Luggage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
JR Haruka Express | ~75 minutes | 3,060 yen (unreserved) (covered by JR Pass) | None | Luggage racks on board | Getting there fast; JR Pass users |
JR Local Rapid Trains | ~100 minutes | 1,910 yen | 1 (at Osaka) | Limited space (carry-on only) | Budget travellers with light bags |
Nankai + Hankyu Route | ~100–120 minutes | 1,230–1,600 yen | 2+ transfers | Limited space (carry-on only) | Shoestring budgets; confident, seasoned travellers |
Limousine Bus | ~90 minutes | 2,600–2,800 yen | None | Bags stored underneath | No transfers; heavier luggage; late flights |
Shared Shuttle Van | ~120–150 minutes | 3,500 yen per person | None (door-to-door) | Driver handles luggage | Solo travellers or couples wanting convenience |
Private Taxi/Transfer | ~90–120 minutes | 25,000–30,000 yen per car | None | Driver handles luggage | Families, groups, or anyone who wants zero stress |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use my JR Pass for the Kansai to Kyoto journey, or save it for later?
If you already have a JR Pass, definitely use it for the Haruka Express — it’ll save you the 2,850 yen fare. But if your pass is for later long-distance travel, hold off. The JR Pass gives you the most value on Shinkansen and intercity trips, so you're better off paying separately for the airport transfer if your big travel days are still ahead.
Can I use the Kansai Thru Pass or other regional passes?
Yes, if you already have one. The Kansai Thru Pass covers non-JR trains like Nankai, Hankyu, and Osaka Metro. It works well if you're travelling around the region. That said, it's not worth buying just for the Kansai Airport to Kyoto leg — a one-way ticket is cheaper. You can also look into the JR West Kansai Area Pass, which includes the Haruka and other JR trains if you're planning multiple trips in the area.
What time should I leave Kyoto to catch my flight from Kansai Airport?
Aim to be at KIX 2–3 hours before an international flight, or 1–1.5 hours for domestic ones. Since the trip takes about 90 minutes, leave Kyoto 3–4 hours before your flight. For a 10:00am flight, plan to leave around 6:00am. The first Haruka departs at around 5:45am, and the earliest bus leaves around 4:30am. For evening flights, the Haruka is more reliable than the bus due to traffic.
Is Kansai Airport closer to Osaka or Kyoto?
Kansai Airport is closer to Osaka. It’s about 50 km from central Osaka, but around 75–100 km from Kyoto. That’s why it’s faster and cheaper to reach Osaka from KIX.
How far is Kansai Airport from Kyoto, and how long does it take?
The distance is roughly 75–100 km, depending on the route. Travel time varies: the Haruka Express takes around 75–80 minutes, the limousine bus about 90 minutes, and local trains up to 2 hours with transfers.
What’s the cheapest way to get from Kansai Airport to Kyoto?
The lowest-cost route uses a mix of local trains — Nankai, Sakaisuji subway, and Hankyu — and costs about 1,230–1,600 yen. It takes up to 2 hours and involves 2+ transfers, so it’s best for travellers familiar with Japan’s train system and travelling light.
Does Kyoto have its own airport?
Nope — Kyoto doesn’t have an airport. The closest one is Kansai International Airport (KIX) for international flights, and Itami Airport for domestic routes. Most travellers arrive at KIX, then take a train or bus into Kyoto.
Wrapping Up: How to Get from Kansai Airport to Kyoto
Getting from the Kansai region to Kyoto City is pretty straightforward once you know your options. If you want to get there quickly, the Haruka Airport Express — a JR limited express train — is your best bet.
This JR rapid service runs frequently and the earliest Haruka service departs around 5:45am. It’s perfect if you’re heading to Kyoto or transferring on to various destinations across major cities in the region. You can reserve tickets online in advance or buy them at the station.
Got lots of luggage or landing late? The limousine bus is a comfy choice — no need to haul bags through busy stations. Just head to the bus stops at the airport’s departure point, and you’ll be on your way. The journey takes about 90 minutes and drops you off at Kyoto Station, which is directly connected to local trains, buses, and taxis.
On a tight budget? Local train routes using JR or private lines can save you some yen, though they involve transfers.
Prefer a stress-free ride straight to your hotel or central Kyoto without the hassle of stops? A private car transfer or taxi is the way to go.
You can even mix and match — some travellers send their luggage ahead and then take a light, easy train ride into the city.
You can even mix and match. Some travellers send their luggage ahead and then take a light, easy train ride into the city.
Looking for more tips? Check out our guides on JR Pass itineraries and the best day trips from Kyoto.
Safe travels — and enjoy Kyoto!