How to get from Nara to Kyoto

Kyoto, known for its historic temples, beautiful gardens, and traditional tea houses, is a cultural gem of Japan’s Kansai region. Located 45 km (28 miles) northwest of Nara, Kyoto is accessible by train, bus, private car, or guided tour. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Nara to Kyoto:

• By Train: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Bus: The cheapest but slower alternative.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The most flexible but expensive choice.
• By Guided Tour: Ideal for those who want a curated experience.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Nara to Kyoto.

Timetable

By Train: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a train from Nara to Kyoto is the fastest and most efficient way to travel, with both JR and Kintetsu lines offering regular services.

Key Details:

• Departure Stations:
  • JR Nara Station (For JR trains).
  • Kintetsu Nara Station (For Kintetsu trains).
• Arrival Station: Kyoto Station.
• Duration: 35 to 60 minutes, depending on train type.
• Price: 720–1,230 JPY (~$5–$9 USD), depending on train type.
• Train Lines:
  • JR Nara Line (Direct, covered by JR Pass).
  • Kintetsu Kyoto Line (Faster with limited express trains).
• Train Types:
  • Local (Cheapest, more stops).
  • Rapid (Faster, fewer stops).
  • Limited Express (Fastest, seat reservation required).
• JR Pass Valid: Yes, on the JR Nara Line.
• Departure Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes from morning to evening.

Recommended Routes:

• Fastest Option:
  • Kintetsu Limited Express: ~35 minutes, 1,230 JPY ($9 USD).
• Best Option for JR Pass Holders:
  • JR Nara Line Rapid Service: 45 minutes, 720 JPY ($5 USD) or free with JR Pass.

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~35 minutes on Kintetsu Limited Express).
• Multiple departures throughout the day.
• Direct travel without transfers.
• JR Pass holders travel for free on the JR Nara Line.

Cons:

• Kintetsu Limited Express requires a seat reservation fee (~520 JPY).
• Local trains take longer (~60 minutes).

Booking Tip:

For fastest travel, take the Kintetsu Limited Express. For JR Pass holders, choose the JR Nara Line Rapid Service. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Bus: The Cheapest but Slower Alternative

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Nara to Kyoto is the cheapest option, though it takes longer than the train.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Nara Bus Terminal (near JR Nara Station).
• Arrival Point: Kyoto Station or Gion District.
• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 800–1,500 JPY (~$6–$10 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • Nara Kotsu Bus.
  • Keihan Bus.
• Bus Types:
  • Standard Bus (A/C, basic seating, no reservations required).
• Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.

Pros:

• Cheaper than limited express trains (~800 JPY for standard buses).
• Direct travel to popular areas like Gion in Kyoto.

Cons:

• Takes significantly longer than trains (~1.5+ hours).
• Subject to traffic delays, especially during peak hours.
• Limited luggage space.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a direct bus with fewer stops. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Nara to Kyoto is an option, especially for families and groups.

Key Details:

• Route: Nara → Kyoto via Keinawa Expressway.
• Distance: 45 km (28 miles).
• Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 15,000–20,000 JPY (~$100–$140 USD), depending on car type and operator.
• Car Types:
  • Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
  • Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).

Pros:

• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• Comfortable for families and groups.
• Flexible travel schedule and stops along the way.

Cons:

• More expensive than trains and buses.
• Traffic delays are possible.

Booking Tip:

For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.

By Guided Tour: Ideal for a Curated Experience

For travelers who want to explore Kyoto with a guide, joining a guided tour from Nara to Kyoto is a great option. Many tours include transportation, guided visits to major attractions, and meals.

Key Details:

• Tour Operators:
  • Viator.
  • GetYourGuide.
  • Local tour companies in Nara.
• Duration: Full-day tours (6 to 10 hours).
• Price: 10,000–20,000 JPY (~$70–$140 USD), depending on inclusions.

Pros:

• Hassle-free experience with transport and guide included.
• Ideal for first-time visitors to Kyoto.
• Includes popular attractions like Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Arashiyama.

Cons:

• Less flexibility compared to independent travel.
• Higher cost than trains or buses.

Booking Tip:

For a curated experience, book a full-day guided tour. Use our online search form to explore available tours.

Final Tips for Traveling from Nara to Kyoto

• Best Option for Fast and Easy Travel: Kintetsu Limited Express (~35 minutes, ~1,230 JPY).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: JR Nara Line Rapid Service (~45 minutes, 720 JPY).
• Best Option for Scenic and Relaxed Journey: Guided Tour (~10,000 JPY, full day).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Trains, buses, and guided tours sell out quickly during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.