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    JR Pass in Kyoto: how far it takes you

    Kyoto is a perfect base for a Japan Rail Pass trip. The shinkansen stops at Kyoto station, the Sagano line takes you to Arashiyama and several day trips cost nothing extra.

    01

    Getting to Kyoto with the JR Pass

    • Tokyo to Kyoto on Hikari in about 2 hours 40 minutes, fully covered.
    • Osaka to Kyoto in 15 minutes by shinkansen or 30 minutes on the Special Rapid.
    • Kansai Airport to Kyoto on the Haruka Express, covered with seat reservation.
    02

    Around Kyoto on JR

    • Sagano line to Arashiyama and the bamboo grove.
    • Nara line to Inari for Fushimi Inari shrine, just two stops away.
    • JR bus loop around the city is not covered, use the local pass or pay cash.
    03

    Best JR day trips from Kyoto

    • Nara in 45 minutes on the JR Nara line.
    • Osaka in 15 minutes on the shinkansen.
    • Himeji Castle in around 1 hour on Sakura plus a short walk.
    • Hiroshima in 1 hour 40 minutes on Sakura or Hikari.
    04

    Tips for Kyoto with a JR Pass

    • Kyoto station is huge, follow the green JR signs to reach the manned gate.
    • The Keihan and Hankyu private railways are not covered.
    • Reserve shinkansen seats for free at any JR ticket office or online via the JR West site.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Is Arashiyama covered by the JR Pass?

    Yes. The JR Sagano line from Kyoto station to Saga Arashiyama is included.

    Can I use the JR Pass on Kyoto buses?

    No. City buses and most subway lines are run by separate operators.

    Is Fushimi Inari reachable with the pass?

    Yes. Take the JR Nara line from Kyoto station to Inari, two stops away.

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