Kyoto is about 100 km northeast of the airport, reachable by direct limited express train.

About Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station is the main gateway to Japan's former imperial capital, serving as the city's largest transportation hub. The station building itself is an architectural marvel designed by Hiroshi Hara, featuring a massive glass atrium, a rooftop garden, and a spectacular stairway with LED illumination.

From Kyoto Station, travelers can easily reach the city's 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The station area houses Kyoto Tower, the Porta underground shopping mall, and Isetan department store.

The station serves as the junction point for JR lines, the Shinkansen (bullet train), Kintetsu Railway, and Kyoto's subway and bus networks, making it the ideal starting point for exploring Kyoto's temples, gardens, and geisha districts.

Nearby Landmarks

Kyoto Tower Higashi Hongan-ji Temple Nishi Hongan-ji Temple Toji Temple Pagoda

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost JPY 25,000-35,000
Time 90-120 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Train (JR Haruka Express)

Cost JPY 2,900 (JPY 1,600 with ICOCA discount)
Time 75 minutes
Frequency Every 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Take JR Haruka Limited Express from KIX Station directly to Kyoto Station. Runs every 30 minutes. ICOCA & Haruka discount available for foreign tourists.

Airport Limousine Bus to Kyoto

Cost JPY 2,600
Time 105 minutes
Frequency Every 60 minutes

Terminal 1, 1st Floor Bus Stop 8

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi JPY 25,000-35,000 90-120 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Train JPY 2,900 (JPY 1,600 with ICOCA discount) 75 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic
Bus/Shuttle JPY 2,600 105 minutes Cheapest option

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The last Haruka Express to Kyoto departs around 10:16 PM. After that, airport limousine buses run limited late services. For very late arrivals, taxis cost ¥25,000-30,000 (approximately $170-200), or consider staying near KIX and traveling to Kyoto the next morning.

Luggage Tips

The Haruka Express has overhead racks and luggage spaces near doors. For large suitcases, stand near the designated luggage areas at car ends. Alternatively, use the Yamato Transport or Sagawa Express luggage delivery service (takkyubin) at KIX arrivals to send bags directly to your Kyoto hotel for about ¥2,000 per piece, delivered next day.

Accessibility

The Haruka Express is fully wheelchair accessible with designated spaces in each train. Kyoto Station has extensive barrier-free facilities including elevators, escalators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms. JR staff can provide boarding assistance with portable ramps at both KIX and Kyoto stations with advance notice.