Should we get a JR pass?

Hi there,

In general the JR-Pass makes a great option if you do a certain amount of long distance travel.
With your itinerary you will only travel one way from Kyoto to Tokyo, so it would not make for a very economic option, even with the day trips added in.

You may be better of buying tickets as you go, for this I would recommend that you get everyone an IC card like ICOCA which is a rechargeable prepaid card that you can use to pay your fare by simply sliding it over the ticket gate. Since you are flying into Kansai Airport the ICOCA + Haruka ticket may be a great option.

For Nara, it does not really matter from where you travel. From Osaka it is 57 Minutes and from Kyoto 59 Minutes both are direct train lines.

Hope this helps,
Daniel

Hi Daniel

Your quick response is much appreciated and your suggestions very helpful.
I hope you dont mind more inquiries.

-Can we use the ICOCA card to board the LIMOUSINE BUS from KIX to NAMBA OCAT? (Our hotel is nearby) -Or should we take the NANKAI EXPRESS (with 1 train transfer to JR NAMBA)? -Or take the HARUKA (with 1-2 train transfers to JR NAMBA)?

Which is more convenient? considering we are arriving 7pm (tired but raring to go)
and with 2 small kids in tow?

-What card should I purchase for our KYOTO-TOKYO leg?

Thanks and will wait for your kind response,

) rica

Hi Rica,

You won't be able to use the ICOCA card on the limousine bus but it is a very nice ride into town.
Alternatively you can take the Nankai Airport express directly to Namba too! See route 3.

I think if you are carrying a lot of luggage the limousine bus is the way to go!

For Kyoto --> Tokyo,
I would recommand that you buy single Shinkansen tickets for this trip. This because you then can make seat reservations and will be sure to have seats together.

Let me know if you have more questions!
Daniel

Thanks again, Daniel.
Will let you know if I have more questions.
Warm regards,
Rica