Osaka and Kyoto travel guide
Osaka is Japan's street-food capital and a convenient base for the Kansai region, with Kyoto's temples and Nara's deer park each less than an hour away by train.
Best time to visit Osaka & Kyoto
Late March to early April brings cherry blossoms, and November brings autumn colours; both are the busiest seasons.
Summer is hot and humid, with a rainy season roughly in June to mid-July. Winter is cool and mostly dry.
Getting to Osaka & Kyoto
Kansai International Airport (KIX) has direct flights from several US cities. The Nankai and JR Haruka trains reach Osaka in about 40 to 50 minutes, and the Haruka continues to Kyoto. Shinkansen trains from Tokyo reach Kyoto in about 2 hours 15 minutes and Shin-Osaka in about 2.5 hours.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
Trains and subway
JR, private railways and the Osaka Metro connect Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe. An IC card such as ICOCA works on almost all of them.
In Kyoto
Buses reach many temples; the subway and walking help avoid crowded buses.
Top things to do in Osaka & Kyoto
1. Dotonbori and Osaka street food
Neon-lit canal streets known for takoyaki, okonomiyaki and the Glico running man sign.
See tours & prices ›2. Osaka Castle
A reconstructed castle keep with a museum, surrounded by moats and a park full of cherry trees.
See tours & prices ›3. Kyoto day trip
Fushimi Inari's red torii gates, Kiyomizu-dera temple and the Gion district.
See tours & prices ›4. Nara deer park and Todai-ji
Friendly deer and one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Get an IC card (ICOCA) for trains, buses and convenience stores.
- Visit Fushimi Inari early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Universal Studios Japan tickets and timed passes sell out in busy periods; book ahead.
Osaka & Kyoto travel FAQ
How far is Kyoto from Osaka?
About 15 minutes by shinkansen or 30 minutes by JR special rapid train.
Should you stay in Osaka or Kyoto?
Osaka has more hotels and nightlife; Kyoto is quieter and closer to the temples. Both work as a base.
How many days do you need in Osaka and Kyoto?
Four to five days covers Osaka, two days in Kyoto and a trip to Nara.