Access

Kyoto is well connected by train, both for city travel and regional access. The JR lines link Kyoto Station with major cities like Osaka and Nara, while the Kyoto City Subway (Karasuma and Tozai lines) makes it easy to move north–south and east–west across the city. Private railways, such as Hankyu, Keihan, and Kintetsu, provide direct links to nearby prefectures and popular sightseeing areas. Trains are fast, punctual, and efficient for both commuters and tourists.

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• Tickets: Each station has automatic ticket machines with English options. You select your destination or fare amount, insert cash or card, and receive a paper ticket to insert at the gate.

• IC Cards: The most convenient option is a rechargeable IC card like ICOCA, Suica, or PASMO (all interchangeable nationwide). Simply tap the card when entering and exiting gates, and the correct fare is deducted automatically. Cards can be purchased and topped up at train stations and convenience stores, or if you use an iPhone, you can install it on your Apple Wallet.

• Day Passes: Kyoto also offers subway passes (1-day or 2-day) for unlimited travel within the subway network, available at stations.

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Shinkansen (Bullet Train) for cross-city travels
 

• Reservations: Shinkansen trains have both reserved and non-reserved cars. Reserved seats guarantee you a spot and are especially recommended during holidays or peak travel times. Non-reserved cars operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

• How to Book: Reservations can be made at JR ticket counters, automatic machines with English menus, or online in advance.

• Big Luggage Rule: If your suitcase is larger than 160 cm in combined dimensions (height + width + depth), you need to book a special “oversized baggage seat” (located at the rear of cars). Without a reservation, you may be fined and required to move your luggage.

Kyoto is a bicycle-friendly city. Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Kyoto, thanks to the city’s relatively flat terrain and compact layout. Many rental shops near Kyoto Station and Kyoto University offer bicycles for a few hours or the entire day. Dedicated bike lanes exist in some areas, but cyclists often share sidewalks with pedestrians, so care is needed. 

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Cycling rules in Kyoto

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• Parking: Bicycles must be parked in designated areas or bike parking lots. Parking illegally on sidewalks, outside shops, or near stations may result in your bike being impounded and a fine.

• Riding Areas: Cyclists generally ride on the road, keeping to the left. In some areas, cycling on sidewalks is permitted if marked, but pedestrians always have priority.

• Lights & Safety: Front and rear lights are required at night. Riding without lights is illegal and subject to fines.

• No Drinking: Cycling under the influence of alcohol is against the law in Japan and can lead to severe penalties, just like drunk driving.

• One Person Per Bike: Carrying passengers (except a small child in a proper child seat) is prohibited.

• Phones & Earphones: Using a phone or listening to music with headphones while riding is unsafe and can be penalized.

• Traffic Rules: Cyclists must obey traffic signals and signs, just like cars.

Kyoto’s bus system is one of the most convenient ways to reach temples, shrines, and heritage sites that are not near train stations. The Kyoto City Bus network covers the entire city, with flat fares for short trips and day passes available for unlimited travel. Buses are particularly useful for reaching places like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion). However, during peak tourist seasons, buses can become crowded and slower due to traffic.

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• Flat Fare System: Most Kyoto City Buses use a flat fare (currently around ¥230 for adults). You pay when getting off the bus, either in cash or with an IC card.

• Cash Payment: Insert exact change into the fare box by the driver. Change machines are attached to the fare box, but they only break down ¥1,000 bills and coins, not larger notes.

• IC Card Payment: Tap your IC card on the reader when boarding and again when exiting. The system automatically deducts the fare.

• Bus Passes: A 1-day bus pass (around ¥700) allows unlimited rides and is often cost-effective if you plan to take three or more buses in a day. These are sold at Kyoto Station bus terminal, subway stations, and some convenience stores.
   

When riding buses in Kyoto, there are a few important etiquette and rules to keep in mind:

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• No eating or drinking – it is considered impolite and can inconvenience other passengers.

• Keep noise low – phone calls are discouraged.

• Line up and board properly – passengers usually board from the rear door and exit from the front (except on some express buses).

• Pay attention to luggage – avoid blocking aisles or taking up extra seats with large bags. Please refrain from carrying big suitcases on bus.

• Reserved seating – priority seats are meant for the elderly, pregnant women, disabled persons, and those with small children.

• Have fare ready – prepare coins, small bills, or an IC card in advance to avoid delays when exiting. 

• Where to Find Them: Taxis are easy to find at hotels, tourist sites, and major train stations. An English-friendly taxi stand is located at Kyoto Station, making it easier for international travelers.

• Apps: Download the GO app or Uber to book taxis, check fares, and pay directly by card.

• Payment: Most taxis accept both cash and credit cards, though carrying small bills is still recommended.

• Communication: Most drivers do not speak much English, so showing the address written in Japanese helps. Many taxis now have multilingual navigation screens.

• Best Use: Ideal for late-night travel, short distances, or when traveling with luggage or in small groups.