Order Your JRPass
Back to Using the Japan Rail Pass

Shinjuku > Osaka > Kyoto > Shinjuku

clouddi
clouddi
almost 7 years ago
1 response

Hello,

My sister and I are travelling to Japan in three weeks and were hoping for some guidance regarding the JR train lines to get between our major destinations.

We'll be starting our trip in Shinjuku and will then be travelling to Osaka via the bullet train. What is the best way to get there? Which journey will mean that we have the least amount of transfers?

From Osaka we will be heading to Kyoto. Again, what is the best way to get there on the bullet train? Is there a direct line?
Also from Osaka we will be doing a day trip to Nara. Is the Yamatoji Rapid Service the best way there? Does this line run from Osaka Station?

From Kyoto we will be heading back to Tokyo (Shinjuku). What is the best way back?

Thank you for your time,
Claudia

avatar
Daniel-san
18832 posts
almost 7 years ago
Expert

Hello Claudia,

To start with a bit of general advice, I recommend learning to plan with Hyperdia this way you can find any route/timetable and more. It's a great tool for planning with the JR Pass. We also have a useful interactive map with all JR lines included.

I also recommend familiarizing yourself with the Tokaido Shinkansen. This is the main line in Japan connecting Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. All on one line.

Travel from Shinjuku to Osaka, first use a local line (such as the JR Chuo line) to Tokyo or Shinagawa station. You can use the Hikari Shinkansen from those stations to Shin-Osaka directly. From Shin-Osaka, local trains run into Osaka.

You can use the JR Kyoto line from either Osaka or Shin-Osaka station to Kyoto, you can also use the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka. Both take about 30 minutes.

Hope this helps,
Daniel


Looking for more information? Search the forum

Select Category

Instant Quote

Starting from $343.00 for 7 days of unlimited Japan Rail travel

Can’t find the answer?

Learn from over 17323 questions about the Japan Rail Pass, or ask our Japan Rail travel experts

Ask Question

Get pocket Wifi in Japan

Get pocket Wifi in Japan

Visit us on Facebook

Get inspired for your visit to Japan by following us on Instagram and don't forget your own shots once you are there.


Find out where to buy the japan rail pass online.

Order your JRPass Now!

We have special prices for children and great first class options. See all tickets or see our range of Regional Passes