Osaka International Airport
555 3-chōme Hotarugaike Nishimachi
The city of Kyoto itself doesn’t have an airport. The closest airport to Kyoto is Osaka International Airport (also called Itami Airport) which is around 36 km from Kyoto, and about 55 minutes away by bus. However, because Osaka International Airport only takes domestic flights, most international travelers find that Kansai International Airport is more convenient. Kansai International Airport is 77 km away from Kyoto in Osaka Bay, and a 75 minute journey away by limited express train.
Transport from Osaka Itami Airport
By Limousine Bus
The easiest way to travel between Kyoto and Osaka Airport is to take the limousine bus. The fare is just 1,310 yen and the direct service takes around 55 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Buses for Kyoto leave from bus stop 2 which is directly outside the airport’s Central Block, and arrive at the Hachijoguchi Exit on the south side of Kyoto Station.
Buses from Kyoto leave from the G3 bus stop which is outside the Avanti shopping mall, and directly across from Kyoto Station’s south side. Tickets can be bought on the day from a ticket machine or attendant. For more information, see the Osaka Airport Transport website.
By Shared Taxi
MK Taxi run an affordable shuttle service between Osaka Airport and multiple destinations in Kyoto for 2,900 yen per person (one way). However, this service must be reserved at least three days in advance. The advantage of the MK shuttle is that it takes you straight from the airport directly to your accommodation in Kyoto. However, the shuttle is a minivan shared with other passengers, so how long the journey takes depends on the route for the whole group. Traveling this way can take between 1.5 to 2 hours. For more details and online bookings visit the MK Taxi website.
By Car
There are five rental car companies to choose from at Osaka Airport, including Toyota, Nissan, Nippon, Orix, and Times. All five rental companies can be found at the General Information Desk on the 2nd floor of the airport’s Central Block. Cars can be booked on the day, but you should check the individual reception hours for each company. Driving between the airport and Kyoto can take between 45 minutes and 80 minutes depending on the time and the traffic conditions.
Renting a car might be a worthwhile option if you intend to explore areas outside Kyoto that are less accessible by train or bus. However, you will need a valid international driver’s license in order to rent a car in Japan. For more details about car rental, see our article: Car Rental in Kyoto.
By Train
It is also possible to travel between Osaka Airport and Kyoto by train for just 980 yen. However, the route is complicated, with at least two changes on the way, and it can take between 60-70 minutes.