Find the Cheapest and Fastest Way to Travel: Kyoto to Nara Access Guide

For JR “Nara Station,” the fastest and cheapest option is the JR Miyakoji Rapid Service, which runs directly from JR “Kyoto Station.”
Since it starts at the first station, you have a good chance of getting a seat, and you’ll likely arrive before you know it if you enjoy the scenery.
Trains are relatively infrequent at around one every 30 minutes, and some local trains take over an hour, so be careful not to miss your train or get on the wrong one.
Also, on both weekdays and weekends/holidays, only the Section Rapid (Approx. 55 minutes) runs from 5am–8am and 8pm–10pm, so keep that in mind when planning.
The fastest and cheapest route from JR “Kyoto Station” to JR “Nara Station” is summarized in the table below.

If you’re heading to Kintetsu “Nara Station,” the fastest route is taking a Kintetsu Kyoto Line limited express (reserved seats) from Kintetsu “Kyoto Station.”
However, since there’s an additional surcharge, the express train (no surcharge) is also an option—it takes only about 10 minutes longer and can be used with just a regular ticket.
Both depart from the first station, and even the non-reserved express is relatively easy to get a seat on.
Either way, trains are limited to one every 30 minutes to one hour, so be sure to check the timetable.
In particular, on weekdays from 7pm–9pm, there are only two limited express services, so you may need to factor this into your sightseeing schedule.
To keep fares as low as possible, use the JR “Nara Station” route mentioned above, then walk Approx. 15 minutes from JR Nara Station.

The sightseeing limited express “Aoniyoshi” is a special four-car sightseeing train operated by Kintetsu Railway.
Centered around “Osaka-Namba Station, Kintetsu-Nara Station, and Kintetsu Kyoto Station,” it connects Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, offering a trip where you can enjoy the history of the Kinki region in a short time.
Its metallic purple body and designs inspired by the Shosoin Repository and the Manyoshu are applied throughout the inside and outside, showing attention to detail at every turn.
Inside, there are relaxing twin seats and salon seats for groups, and the custom-made seating promises a comfortable journey.
It also comes with free Wi-Fi and power outlets, creating an elegant space that feels like a hotel lounge.
Another highlight is the sales counter where you can buy sweets made with Nara ingredients and train-exclusive original goods, plus a library corner with books related to places along the route.
If you’d like a luxurious ride while experiencing Japanese culture, consider taking it.
A quick overview is summarized below.

The “KINTETSU RAIL PASS” is a special pass for international travelers visiting Japan for sightseeing, offering unlimited rides on Kintetsu trains plus designated sections of Nara Kotsu buses and more.
Before entering Japan, you can buy it on the Kintetsu website or through travel agencies; after arrival, it’s also available at the “Kansai Tourist Information Center” at Kansai International Airport and the “Meitetsu Travel Plaza” at Chubu Centrair International Airport.
There are four types in total, ranging from 1-day to 2-day and 5-day passes, and it’s convenient for travel in Kyoto, Nara, Kyoto, Mie, and Aichi Prefecture.

The “JR Kansai Mini Pass” is a special ticket for international visitors to Japan (foreign nationals with a short-term stay status of residence).
For three consecutive designated days, you get unlimited rides on JR lines in the Kansai area (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and more), making travel both budget-friendly and efficient.
It also covers the Kansai Airport Rapid Service, so you can comfortably get from Kansai International Airport to sightseeing spots.
An overview is summarized in the table below.

The “KANSAI RAILWAY PASS” is a special rail pass for international visitors to Japan (foreign nationals with a short-term stay status of residence).
It offers unlimited rides on multiple major private railways in Kansai, including Kintetsu, Keihan, Hankyu, Hanshin, and Nankai lines.
With one pass, it covers Kyoto, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Wakayama, and Shiga.
Unlike other passes, it’s flexible-you don’t have to use it on consecutive days as long as it’s within the validity period (for example, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday).
Also, by showing your pass, you can receive perks and discounts at Approx. 200 facilities, so if you use it well, your trip will be even more fulfilling.