Wandering through Kyoto feels like stepping into a painting — temples framed by maple leaves, quiet bamboo groves, and hidden alleys that hum with centuries of history.
If you’re traveling Japan with a JR Pass, you might wonder: Can I really use it in Kyoto?
The answer is yes… but with a few helpful tips to make the most of it.
Here’s how to use your Japan Rail Pass to explore Kyoto with ease.
🚅 1. Start at Kyoto Station — Your Main Hub
Kyoto Station is the heart of JR operations in the city.
From here, you can catch:
- JR trains to nearby cities like Osaka, Nara, and Kobe
- JR Sagano Line (also called JR San-in Line) to Arashiyama
👉 Always enter via the JR gates and show your pass at the manned booth if needed.
🌿 2. Use the JR Sagano Line to Reach Arashiyama
Arashiyama is a must-see with its dreamy bamboo grove and river views.
Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station — all covered by your JR Pass.
From there, it’s a short walk to the bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple.
⛩ 3. Travel to Fushimi Inari with JR Nara Line
The iconic red torii gates? You’ll find them at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Hop on the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station and get off at Inari Station.
It’s only 2 stops away — and just steps from the shrine entrance.
🏯 4. Visit Nara or Osaka in a Day
The JR Pass truly shines for day trips.
- Nara: Take the JR Nara Line to Nara Station
- Osaka: Hop on the JR Special Rapid Service via JR Kyoto Line to Osaka Station
Both trips are quick and fully covered.
🚌 5. Know When NOT to Use the JR Pass
Most inner-city travel in Kyoto is by bus or subway, which aren’t covered by the JR Pass.
For places like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), you’ll need to use:
- City buses
- Kyoto Metro (Karasuma Line, Tozai Line)
💡 Consider getting an IC card (like Suica or ICOCA) for local rides.
🚉 6. Use JR to Reach Uji and Byodo-in Temple
Uji is a peaceful escape famous for matcha and the stunning Phoenix Hall.
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto to Uji Station — covered by your pass.
The walk to the temple is lined with charming tea shops.
🧳 7. Swap Between Cities Easily
If you’re based in Kyoto, you can explore a whole region thanks to the Shinkansen.
From Kyoto Station, the JR Pass covers:
- Hikari Shinkansen to Tokyo, Nagoya, or Hiroshima
- Local JR lines in and out of Kyoto
✨ Tip: Always check the JR Pass-eligible trains (Nozomi and Mizuho trains aren’t included).
🍵 Final Thoughts: JR in Kyoto, with Intention
While the JR Pass is amazing for getting in and out of Kyoto or reaching outer areas like Arashiyama and Uji…
It’s not ideal for every little temple or café in town.
Use it as your long-distance magic carpet, and pair it with local buses or bikes for the full Kyoto experience.
Wishing you gentle mornings, soft temple bells, and the perfect bowl of matcha 🍃
