bus driverI, a former Kyoto City bus driver, will be your guide.
Let’s consider the modes of transportation in this order
| Solo travel | Couple or friends trip | Family trip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① Taxi | 〇 | 〇 | 〇 |
| ② Train & walk | 〇 | 〇 | △ |
| ③ Sightseeing bus | 〇 | 〇 | 〇 |
| ⑤ Kyoto City Bus | 〇 | △ | △ |
Why isn’t the Kyoto City Bus recommended?
This is a live video of the Kyoto Station bus terminal.
This is the busiest bus stop for traveling from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu Temple. It’s a 15-minute distance to Gojozaka/Kiyomizu-michi bus stop, but you may wait for over 30 minutes before boarding.
- We have to wait in a long queue for the bus.
- The bus I boarded is very crowded.
bus driverIf you absolutely want to take this bus for a cheaper option, be prepared.
Advantages and disadvantages of recommended modes of transportation
Top Recommendation: Taxi
Second recommendation: Train and walking.
The train system within Kyoto city is not extensive, but it’s convenient to take a train to a station near your destination and walk the rest of the way.
Third recommendation: Sightseeing bus.
“The Kyoto city bus, which can get extremely crowded, especially with the use of daily passes.”
Fourth recommendation: Kyoto City Bus.
The Kyoto City Bus is cheap and convenient, but be aware that there are many drawbacks overall.
especially,
These bus stops can get extremely crowded, especially in the evenings, making it difficult to catch a bus. Please be mindful of your return train or flight times.
Further detailed explanation! Basic transportation methods for sightseeing in Kyoto.
When sightseeing in Kyoto, choosing the right mode of transportation is crucial. By effectively utilizing public transportation such as buses and trains, you can efficiently explore the beautiful temples, shrines, and charming streets. Rental bicycles are also popular for exploring at your own pace. Additionally, knowing the key points when using taxis can ensure a comfortable Kyoto sightseeing experience.
How to Use Public Transportation
In Kyoto, a diverse range of public transportation options, such as buses and trains, are well-developed.
In particular, the bus network that traverses the city is convenient for sightseeing, allowing access to major tourist spots.
Checking the route map before boarding and using an IC card enable smooth travel.
Moreover, from Kyoto Station, easy access to the suburbs is available using trains such as JR, Keihan, and Hankyu lines.
As Kyoto’s tourist attractions are spread over a wide area, the combination of public transportation becomes crucial.
The appeal of rental bicycles
Kyoto’s streets are perfect for exploring by rental bicycle. Riding a bicycle along the narrow alleyways and riverside paths of Kyoto allows you to experience its unique atmosphere. Additionally, with the availability of rental electric-assist bicycles, even hills become manageable. When using rental bicycles, it’s important to always lock them to prevent theft and to ride responsibly, obeying traffic rules and being mindful of pedestrians and cars. You’ll be able to fully enjoy the charm of a leisurely journey at your own pace.
Key Points for Taxi Travel
Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
Firstly, taxi stands are often located near major tourist attractions, allowing you to board without waiting for long periods.
Furthermore, taxi drivers are often knowledgeable about tourist destinations, so you can obtain information while traveling.
However, delays due to traffic congestion or high fares may occur, so it’s recommended to consider the time of day and distance before using a taxi.
By using taxis wisely, you can achieve a comfortable sightseeing experience in Kyoto.
Optimal Transportation Methods by Area
When exploring the beautiful tourist destinations of Japan, such as Kyoto, knowing the most suitable mode of transportation for each area can enhance your travel experience significantly.
Discovering gentle yet efficient ways to navigate through the historic streets can create unforgettable moments during your journey.
By understanding the characteristics of each area and introducing comfortable access methods, we hope to contribute to making your time more fulfilling.
How to Get Around the Arashiyama District
Arashiyama is a popular tourist destination dotted with charming spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge, bamboo groves, and riverside dining.
To efficiently explore this expansive area, renting a bicycle is highly recommended. Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring or the autumn foliage, you can enjoy the changing scenery at the speed of a bike.
Moreover, the area around Togetsukyo Bridge is ideal for exploring on foot. By wandering into narrow paths, you may encounter unexpected discoveries or stumble upon hidden cafes for a relaxing break.
Furthermore, Arashiyama offers unique transportation options such as the Sagano Scenic Railway and Hozugawa River Boat Ride, allowing you to appreciate different scenery depending on the season.
Access to Kiyomizu-dera Temple Area
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is known as one of Kyoto’s iconic tourist spots.
The surrounding area boasts many attractions such as Gion and Yasaka Shrine, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
Due to the numerous slopes and stone steps, wearing comfortable shoes is essential when visiting.
Additionally, the area is well-served by bus routes, making travel by city bus convenient.
For those using trains, the nearest station to Kiyomizu-dera is Kiyomizu-Gojo Station from Kyoto Station. However, the journey from the station to Kiyomizu-dera is also charming and worth exploring.
You can enjoy a leisurely time while taking in the views of Kyoto’s streets.
How to Visit Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji Area
Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji are two iconic temples that symbolize Kyoto, but both are located a little away from the city center.
Therefore, it’s important to make good use of public transportation.
There is a direct bus from Kyoto Station to Kinkaku-ji, and for Ginkaku-ji, access using a combination of city buses and the subway is convenient.
Along the way, there are scenic walking paths such as the Philosopher’s Path, so you can enjoy exploring as a mini excursion from the bus stop.
These areas are crowded with tourists throughout the year, so to avoid bus congestion, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning.
You’ll be able to quietly appreciate the beauty of the golden and silver temples and experience the richness of Kyoto’s history and nature.
Sightseeing tour around Kyoto by bus.
To fully enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kyoto,
taking a sightseeing bus tour is ideal.
With various routes available, you can efficiently visit many famous landmarks and historic sites.
Especially for those who prioritize time and seek the convenience and high tourist value unique to bus travel,
it’s a perfect choice.
The Sky Hop Bus Kyoto is a bus service specialized for sightseeing in Kyoto,
especially with its one-day unlimited ride ticket being a great deal.
For a fixed price, you can freely explore designated tourist spots, reducing unnecessary travel time
and allowing you to visit more places.
These buses blend into Kyoto’s streets with unique bus stops,
making the journey itself enjoyable.
Efficient, economical, and comfortable, the Sky Hop Bus Kyoto offers a great way to tour Kyoto.
Recommendation for exploring Kyoto on foot.
When visiting Kyoto, one thing I highly recommend is exploring on foot.
The city’s streets are renowned for their historical buildings and beautiful natural surroundings, making leisurely strolls the most charming way to enjoy them.
For instance, places like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Philosopher’s Path offer an ambiance best experienced on foot.
Moreover, walking is not only beneficial for health but also allows you to tour attractions at your own pace, free from concerns about traffic congestion.
Wandering through the serene gardens of temples and shrines can be a refreshing experience for the soul.
Walking helps refresh both the mind and body, allowing you to appreciate the ever-changing seasons of Kyoto.
- What are the recommended sightseeing spots in Kyoto?
-
Recommended spots include Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, and Kinkaku-ji Temple.
- What is the recommended sightseeing map for Kyoto?
-
Please refer to the official Kyoto tourism website: Kyoto Tourism Navi.
- Is taking a bus recommended for sightseeing in Kyoto?
-
While the one-day pass is affordable and convenient, be cautious of the heavy crowds.
bus driverI, a former Kyoto City bus driver, will be your guide.
Ten things to know and be careful about when traveling to Kyoto, Japan for sightseeing.
1: The Kyoto City buses where the one-day pass can be used are always very crowded.
This is a live video from the bus stop at Kyoto Station, heading towards Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
This is the busiest bus stop for traveling from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu Temple. It’s a 15-minute distance to Gojozaka/Kiyomizu-michi bus stop, but you may wait for over 30 minutes before boarding.
- We have to wait in a long queue for the bus.
- The bus I boarded is very crowded.
bus driverIf you absolutely want to take this bus for a cheaper option, be prepared.
Taxis in Japan are safe, reliable, and affordable. We recommend using taxi apps for a comfortable experience.
2:The one-day pass in Kyoto allows unlimited rides on both the subway and buses. Try to make the most of the subway whenever possible.
You can access most tourist spots within Kyoto city by bus, but it takes time and buses are often crowded. For faster and more comfortable transportation to major destinations, consider using the subway.
bus driverEspecially if you’re heading towards Kyoto Station in the evening, buses can get extremely crowded, so prioritize using the subway.
3:The buses you can ride with a one-day pass are only the green Kyoto City buses. Red, blue, and maroon-colored buses are not eligible.
bus driverRemember that only the green buses are available for rides with the one-day pass.
4:Buses heading to Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji have both clockwise and counterclockwise routes, so be careful not to board in the opposite direction
bus driverThere are two bus stops for Route 206, but the one with the queue is always for Kiyomizu-dera direction.
bus driverThe estimated time required is approximately 45 minutes.
bus driverThe Route 205 bus has the highest number of passengers in Japan. Buses arrive every 10 minutes, but they are always very crowded.
5:Kyoto City bus drivers do not speak English
I don’t understand English.
bus driverI apologize for the lack of preparation/study
6:If you haven’t properly touched your transportation IC card at the train station, it cannot be used on the bus. You need to return to the train station to have it released.
bus driverThere’s nothing you can do on the bus.
7:Credit cards cannot be used for payment on Kyoto City buses. Only cash, IC cards, and one-day passes are accepted.
bus driverIt would be convenient to use credit cards, but Japan is behind in this regard. I’m sorry about that.
8:When paying cash on Kyoto City buses, please prepare exact change or 1000 yen bills. Payment cannot be made with 10,000 yen bills
bus driverMake sure to check before boarding the bus.
9:When using a transportation IC card on the bus, make sure to charge it at stations or convenience stores beforehand, or you may not be able to use it due to insufficient balance.
bus driverPlease don’t give up just because this IC card is no longer usable. It’s convenient to have it for traveling anywhere in Japan, so make sure to recharge it properly.
10:The fare for Kyoto City buses is a flat rate and is paid upon exiting the bus. There is no need for card touch or payment when boarding.
bus driverFor Kyoto City buses, numbered tickets are required only for a very small number of minor routes, but you don’t need to worry too much about it.
11:2024 Latest Edition! Enjoy Kyoto Travel Economically! Recommended One-Day Pass Information
bus driverHere is the recommended one-day pass information!
While it’s a cost-effective one-day pass,
12:With JR Shinkansen tickets, you cannot use Kyoto City buses. Only the blue JR buses are available for use
If you take the blue JR bus from Kyoto Station to the Waratenjin-mae bus stop,
it’s about a 10-minute walk from there to Kinkaku-ji Temple.
bus driverJR buses have few routes and infrequent services, making them inconvenient for travel
13:Let’s use affordable and comfortable private taxis for sightseeing in Kyoto.
Since there are few Japanese drivers fluent in foreign languages,
the recommended sightseeing taxi company is ‘MK Sightseeing Taxi‘ without a doubt!
Prices range from around ¥38,350 for 6 hours to ¥56,050 for 9 hours.
bus driverThe driver also recommends delicious restaurants.
14:”Visit by train without using buses” Kyoto sightseeing trip
Sightseeing within Kyoto city can be largely covered by Kyoto city buses,
but
1st in importance：Keihan train
2nd place in importance：JR train
3rd place in importance：Subway
bus driverIt’s definitely more comfortable than dealing with crowded buses.
15:If you’re looking for a recommended double-decker bus for sightseeing in Kyoto, the Sky Hop Bus is your best choice.
Kyoto city buses are inexpensive, but they are often confusing and crowded due to frequent use by the general public, resulting in long wait times and standing room only inside the vehicle.
Using the tourist route bus “Sky Hop Bus” addresses these issues as it connects only major tourist destinations, making it easy to understand, quicker in terms of time, and allowing passengers to sit comfortably while enjoying the scenery during travel.
Points to note when using the Sky Hop Bus
- The frequency of operation is lower than that of Kyoto city buses, so if you miss one, the next bus will be approximately 25 minutes later.
- If the number of passengers exceeds the seating capacity, you may have to wait for the next bus.
- Sky Bus tickets are only valid for the day of purchase and do not remain valid for 24 hours from the time of purchase.
Tourist spots accessible by Sky Hop Bus
- Kyoto Station (Departure/Arrival)
- Nishi Hongan-ji Temple
- Shijo-Karasuma ・Nishiki Market
- Nijo Castle
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine ・Kamishichiken
- Kinkaku-ji Temple
- Daitoku-ji Temple
- Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Ginkaku-ji Temple
- Heian Shrine ・Okazaki Park
- Gion
- Gojo-zaka ・Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Sanjusangen-do Temple ・National Museum
- Kyoto Station (Departure/Arrival)
bus driverIt is 4,000 yen per adult in Japanese currency.
16:”Kyoto Sightseeing Model Course: 1 Night 2 Days – A Travel Plan to Enjoy Gourmet Experiences!”
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Gion/ Hanami-koji
- Kamo River
- Samurai & Ninja Museum Kyoto
- Nishiki Market / Pontocho
- Hotel
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Arashiyama
- (Nijo Castle, Hongan-ji Temple)
- Return journey
bus driverKinkaku-ji is worth seeing for its golden color, but Ginkaku-ji, lacking the silver hue, might not be as worthy of a visit
17:”Kyoto Sightseeing Model Course: 3 Days 2 Nights – A Travel Plan to Enjoy Gourmet Experiences!”
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Byodo-in Temple
- Arashiyama
- Hotel
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Gion / Hanami-koji
- Kamo River
- Samurai & Ninja Museum Kyoto
- Nishiki Market / Pontocho
- Hotel
bus driverIt is recommended to take a train to a slightly distant place on the first day, and to relax and return on the last day
18:”Kyoto Sightseeing Model Course: 4 Days 3 Nights – A Travel Plan to Enjoy Gourmet Experiences!”
- Arashiyama
- Sagano Scenic Railway (Torokko Train)
- Hozugawa River Boat Ride
- Wagashi Making Experience at “Kanshun-do Sagano Shop”
- Bamboo Grove Path, Kimono Forest
- Hotel
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Kamo River
- Gion District / Hanami-koji
- Samurai & Ninja Museum Kyoto
- Nishiki Market / Pontocho
- Hotel
- Sanzen-in Temple in Ohara
- Kifune Shrine
- Kurama-dera Temple
- Kamigamo Shrine
- (Shimogamo Shrine)
- Return journey
bus driverExperiencing activities at the beginning and ending with relaxation is recommended
19:If you’re staying at a hotel in Kyoto, I recommend either the area around Kyoto Station or Shijo Karasuma
In Kyoto, the choices for accommodation can be broadly divided into two categories.
The downside is that the Kyoto ambiance might not be as prominent in the vicinity of Kyoto Station.
The downside here is that the hotel restaurants may not be as diverse, and the hotels might be smaller in scale.
However,
these two locations are only about 3 minutes apart by subway, or approximately a 1000 yen taxi ride away.
bus driverIf it were up to me, I would choose the bustling district of “Shijo Kawaramachi” and enjoy Kyoto’s nightlife
20:【Kyoto sightseeing recommendations 2024】 This is perfect! Introducing the top 10 must-sees for travelers
- Conveyor belt sushi：Daiki Suisan Kaiten Sushi Kyoto Tower Sand Shop
- Ramen : Daiichi Asahi
- Okonomiyaki : Kyochabana Kyoto Station Store
- Beef Shabu/Beef Sukiyaki : Tajimaya Shijo Kawaramachi Branch
- Udon : Yamamoto Menzo
- Soba : Roujina
- Tofu/Yuba：Toyoukechaya
- Mcdonalds：Teritama Burger
- Matcha sweets：Gion Komori
- high class japanese food：Doujin
bus driverNumbers 1 to 7 are in central Kyoto.
Others are a little far away.
bus driverJapanese restaurants don’t have to be high-end restaurants to be delicious. that can only be enjoyed in Japan
bus driverExperiences that can only be enjoyed in Japan
bus driverAll can be purchased at Kyoto Station on the Shinkansen
【Summary】20 Things to Be Mindful of When Touring Kyoto.
Visiting a foreign country is an enjoyable experience, but without being aware of its cultural nuances, one might end up regretting it.
Japan is an affordable and friendly country, but it’s important to be mindful of the above 20 points.
Summary of Transportation Options for Sightseeing in Kyoto
To fully enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto, it is essential to choose transportation options based on your preferences, physical abilities, and budget.
Personally, due to the excessive congestion at city bus stops and on board, I recommend avoiding buses as much as possible and opting for comfortable transportation options such as trains, walking, or taxis.
While taking advantage of the merits of each mode of transportation, please make the most of your time and fully enjoy the charm of the ancient capital.
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