Neon-lit Tokyo street at night with Japanese signage, pedestrians, and reflections on wet pavement

Transport guide

Getting Around Kyoto: Complete Transport Guide (2026)

Kyoto’s subway is limited — buses are essential for temple visits. Plus Kyoto bike share, walking, and a few JR train lines. Here’s the practical breakdown.

Kyoto City Bus Pass

Unlimited Kyoto City Bus + Karasuma + Tozai subway lines. 700 yen for 1 day, 1,200 for 2 days.

Best for: Temple visits requiring buses.

Suica or PASMO IC card

Universal tap-and-go for all transit. Get at airport or major station.

Best for: All public transit.

Buses (city + private)

City buses go everywhere — Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, Gion. 230 yen flat fare per ride.

Best for: Temple visits + cross-city travel.

Karasuma + Tozai subway

2 subway lines crossing Kyoto. 220-360 yen per ride.

Best for: Limited tourist use — covers central Kyoto + Higashiyama area.

JR Saga + Nara lines

JR Saga line to Arashiyama (15 min). Nara line to Fushimi Inari + Nara (45 min).

Best for: Arashiyama + Fushimi Inari + Nara day-trip.

Keihan Main Line

Local private line connecting Kyoto to Osaka via Gion + Fushimi Inari.

Best for: Eastern Kyoto + Osaka quick trips.

Walking

Higashiyama + Gion + Philosopher’s Path all walkable.

Best for: Eastern temples + neighborhood depth.

Bicycles

Kyoto is flat + bike-friendly. Rent from many shops (~1,000 yen/day).

Best for: Day-trip exploration of Arashiyama + Imperial Palace area.

Taxis

Plentiful but expensive. 600 yen base + 80 yen per 360m.

Best for: Late-night travel.