Directions from Major International Airports to Kyoto
Welcome to Kyoto, a city steeped in history, culture, and beauty. Whether you’re planning a visit to the serene temples, bustling markets, or the picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, getting there smoothly is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide on how to travel from major international airports in Japan to Kyoto.
1. Narita International Airport (NRT)
A. By Train & Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
From Narita Airport, take the Narita Express (N’EX) to Tokyo Station. The journey takes about 60 minutes and costs around 3,070 yen. At Tokyo Station, transfer to the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) bound for Kyoto. The Nozomi Shinkansen takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, costing approximately 13,080 yen. The total travel time is around 3.5 hours.
B. By Bus & Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The Airport Limousine Bus from Narita to Tokyo Station takes about 90 minutes and costs 3,200 yen. From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto as mentioned above. The total travel time is about 4 hours.
C. By Air
Domestic flights from Narita to Osaka Itami Airport take about 90 minutes, with prices varying depending on the airline and booking time. From Itami Airport, take a limousine bus to Kyoto, which takes around 50 minutes and costs about 1,340 yen. The total travel time is roughly 3.5 to 4 hours.
2. Haneda International Airport (HND)
A. By Train
From Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station, which takes about 20 minutes and costs 410 yen. From Shinagawa Station, board the Shinkansen to Kyoto. The Nozomi Shinkansen takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes, with a cost of 13,080 yen. The total travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.
B. By Bus
The Airport Limousine Bus from Haneda to Tokyo Station takes about 40 minutes and costs 950 yen. From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto as previously described. The total travel time is around 3 hours.
C. By Air
Domestic flights from Haneda to Osaka Itami Airport are frequent and take about 70 minutes. From Itami Airport, take the limousine bus to Kyoto, taking around 50 minutes. The total travel time is about 2.5 to 3 hours.
3. Kansai International Airport (KIX)
A. By Train
The JR Haruka Express offers a direct service from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Station, taking about 75 minutes and costing around 3,850 yen. It’s the most convenient and straightforward option.
B. By Bus
The Airport Limousine Bus to Kyoto Station takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs 2,600 yen. This option is comfortable and provides direct access to Kyoto.
C. By Car
Renting a car is another option, with multiple rental services available at Kansai Airport. The drive to Kyoto takes about 1.5 hours via the Hanshin Expressway, though traffic conditions can affect travel time. Rental costs vary, but expect around 6,000 yen per day.
4. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
A. By Train & Shinkansen
From Centrair Airport, take the Meitetsu Line to Nagoya Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs 1,230 yen. From Nagoya Station, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, which takes about 35 minutes and costs 5,940 yen. The total travel time is around 1.5 hours.
B. By Bus & Shinkansen
The Airport Limousine Bus to Nagoya Station takes about 40 minutes and costs 1,200 yen. From there, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours.
5. New Chitose Airport (CTS)
A. By Air & Train
Take a domestic flight from New Chitose to Kansai International Airport, which takes about 2 hours. From Kansai, take the JR Haruka Express to Kyoto Station, which takes about 75 minutes. The total travel time is around 4 hours.
B. By Train & Air
Take the JR Rapid Airport to Sapporo Station, then transfer to the Shinkansen from Sapporo to Kyoto, which requires a transfer at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto. The total travel time is around 9 hours, with a cost of approximately 27,000 yen.
6. Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
A. By Train & Shinkansen
Take the Fukuoka City Subway to Hakata Station, which takes about 5 minutes and costs 260 yen. From Hakata Station, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, which takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, costing around 14,480 yen. The total travel time is approximately 3 hours.
B. By Air & Bus
Domestic flights from Fukuoka to Osaka Itami Airport take about 70 minutes. From Itami, take the limousine bus to Kyoto, which takes about 50 minutes. The total travel time is around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Conclusion
Traveling to Kyoto from any of Japan’s major international airports is convenient with various options available. Whether you prefer the speed of the Shinkansen, the convenience of direct bus services, or the flexibility of air travel, you can find a method that suits your needs. Ensure to check schedules and book tickets in advance for a smooth journey. Safe travels!
