- Must visit
Nara National Museum
Leading museum for Buddhist sculpture, ritual art and special exhibitions linked to local temples and shrines. Essential for understanding Nara’s heritage.
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Discover the Japan Rail PassThe cheapest and fastest trains from Kyoto to Nara
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 26 Oct
Cheapest price on 26 Oct
£4
Average ticket price on 26 Oct
£4
Fastest journey on 26 Oct
1 h 1 m
Average journey duration on 26 Oct
1 h 2 m
Trains on 26 Oct
36
Distance
38 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kyoto to Nara is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kyoto to Nara will cost around £4 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £4.
Fast trains
On Mon 26 Oct, we found 36 trains from Kyoto to Nara, including 36 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 38 km distance in an average of 1 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 1 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 3 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
18:261h10Kyoto Station19:36Nara Station£41One-way0 changes- 13:271h13Kyoto Station14:40Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 15:571h13Kyoto Station17:10Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 22:121h06Kyoto Station23:18Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 9:561h14Kyoto Station11:10Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 22:561h01Kyoto Station23:57Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 5:511h01Kyoto Station6:52Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 5:331h01Kyoto Station6:34Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 21:131h02Kyoto Station22:15Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
- 20:411h03Kyoto Station21:44Nara Station£41One-way0 changes
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Kyoto to Nara
JapanJapan
Trains from Kyoto to Nara run on average 61 times per day, taking around 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £4 if you book in advance.
There are 61 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:34, the last at 20:33. The fastest train covers the 38 km distance in 47m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 38 km |
Average train duration 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £4 |
Trains per day 61 |
Direct trains 61 |
Fastest train 47m |
First train 1:34 |
Last train 20:33 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Kyoto to Nara trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Kyoto to Nara.
The cost of a train ticket from Kyoto to Nara can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £4, while the average price tends to be around £4.
The train journey from Kyoto to Nara covers a distance of 38 km and takes approximately 47m. Trains run 61 per day.
The train distance from Kyoto to Nara is 38 km.
The first train from Kyoto to Nara leaves at 1:34.
The last train from Kyoto to Nara departs at 20:33.
Trains from Kyoto to Nara run approximately 61 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Kyoto and Nara. The service operates 61 times per day, provided by JR West, JR West.
Live departures
Kyoto to Nara train times
The table below shows live departures for Kyoto to Nara trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 27 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:33 Kyoto Station | 1h01 | 6:34 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 5:51 Kyoto Station | 1h01 | 6:52 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:11 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 7:17 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:48 Kyoto Station | 1h07 | 7:55 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:15 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 8:21 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:29 Kyoto Station | 1h05 | 8:34 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:55 Kyoto Station | 1h10 | 9:05 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:02 Kyoto Station | 1h09 | 9:11 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:13 Kyoto Station | 1h07 | 9:20 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:10 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 10:16 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:22 Kyoto Station | 1h18 | 10:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:56 Kyoto Station | 1h14 | 11:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 11:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 12:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 12:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 13:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 13:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 14:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 14:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 15:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 15:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 16:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 15:27 Kyoto Station | 1h15 | 16:42 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 15:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 17:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:27 Kyoto Station | 1h15 | 17:42 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:57 Kyoto Station | 1h16 | 18:13 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:26 Kyoto Station | 1h15 | 18:41 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:56 Kyoto Station | 1h20 | 19:16 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18:26 Kyoto Station | 1h10 | 19:36 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18:56 Kyoto Station | 1h21 | 20:17 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19:40 Kyoto Station | 1h04 | 20:44 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:09 Kyoto Station | 1h04 | 21:13 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:41 Kyoto Station | 1h03 | 21:44 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 21:13 Kyoto Station | 1h02 | 22:15 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22:12 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 23:18 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22:56 Kyoto Station | 1h01 | 23:57 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 27 October | |||||
| 5:33 Kyoto Station | 1h01 | 6:34 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 5:51 Kyoto Station | 1h01 | 6:52 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:11 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 7:17 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:48 Kyoto Station | 1h07 | 7:55 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:15 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 8:21 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:29 Kyoto Station | 1h05 | 8:34 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:55 Kyoto Station | 1h10 | 9:05 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:02 Kyoto Station | 1h09 | 9:11 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:13 Kyoto Station | 1h07 | 9:20 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:10 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 10:16 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:22 Kyoto Station | 1h18 | 10:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:56 Kyoto Station | 1h14 | 11:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 11:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 12:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 12:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 13:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 13:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 14:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 14:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 15:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:27 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 15:40 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 16:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 15:27 Kyoto Station | 1h15 | 16:42 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 15:57 Kyoto Station | 1h13 | 17:10 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:27 Kyoto Station | 1h15 | 17:42 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:57 Kyoto Station | 1h16 | 18:13 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:26 Kyoto Station | 1h15 | 18:41 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:56 Kyoto Station | 1h20 | 19:16 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18:26 Kyoto Station | 1h10 | 19:36 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18:56 Kyoto Station | 1h21 | 20:17 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19:40 Kyoto Station | 1h04 | 20:44 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:09 Kyoto Station | 1h04 | 21:13 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:41 Kyoto Station | 1h03 | 21:44 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 21:13 Kyoto Station | 1h02 | 22:15 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22:12 Kyoto Station | 1h06 | 23:18 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22:56 Kyoto Station | 1h01 | 23:57 Nara Station | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: JR West from Kyoto to Nara trainsJR West trains will get you between Kyoto and Nara from £4. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
JR West
About
West Japan Railway Company (JR West) is a leading railway operator in Japan, headquartered in Osaka. Established on April 1, 1987, following the privatization of Japanese National Railways, JR West manages an extensive network covering 5,008.7 kilometers, including the Sanyō Shinkansen line, which accounts for approximately 40% of its passenger revenues. The company also offers bus and ferry services and engages in real estate and retail businesses. With a workforce of over 45,000 employees, JR West serves a population of approximately 43.1 million people across 18 prefectures in western Japan.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average JR West Duration
47m
Cheapest JR West Price
£4
JR West frequency
52 a day
Luggage included
Up to two portable items totaling no more than 250 cm in dimensions and weighing no more than 30 kg are allowed.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage beyond the standard allowance is not permitted.
Luggage storage
Designated areas are available for storing luggage on trains.
Cancellation Policy
Changes and refunds are not possible after the scheduled departure time of the first designated train.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Food and beverage waste should be discarded in receptacles provided in the station or on the train.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations can be made at no additional cost at ticket offices; online reservations may incur fees.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
JR West strives to maintain accessibility features and offers support to patrons with disabilities.
Bikes
Bicycles for cycling or sports competitions must be dismantled and carried in a dedicated bag.
Pets
Pets must be transported in a case that holds their entire body; fees apply for small animals.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Kyoto and Nara
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Kyoto to Nara.
There is no night train service from Kyoto to Nara.
Complete guide to Nara
Things to do in Nara
Discover the best of Nara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nara trip today.
- Recommended
Tōdai-ji Museum
Museum beside Tōdai-ji presenting temple history, archaeology and the Great Buddha through well-curated displays. Useful before or after visiting the temple.
Nara Prefectural Museum of Art
Compact art museum in Nara Park with Japanese painting and changing exhibitions. A calm cultural stop near the city’s busiest sights.
- Must visit
Nara Park
Expansive park linking many of Nara’s main sights, with broad lawns, woodland paths and free-roaming deer. The city’s signature walking area.
- Recommended
Naramachi
Historic merchant quarter with preserved townhouses, narrow lanes and small cultural stops. Ideal for a slower walk away from the busiest temple zone.
- Recommended
Wakakusayama
Scenic hill path and viewpoint area with traditional houses, temple approaches and good city vistas. Best for photographers and early evening walks.
Kakinoha-zushi
Pressed sushi layered with cured mackerel and vinegared rice in a wooden mould. A long-standing Nara speciality linked to mountain preservation methods.
Miwa sōmen
Thin wheat noodles in a light broth, often served simply with spring onion. It is associated with Miwa Shrine traditions and nearby Sakurai in Nara Prefecture.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Narazuke
Pickled vegetables and herbs packed in sake lees. This old Nara preserving method gives a fragrant, tangy flavour tied to the city’s brewing history.
Yamatoan
Traditional restaurant in a former merchant house serving refined Japanese cuisine with strong local ingredients and a serene atmosphere.
Kasugano
Historic teahouse in Nara Park known for chagayu, warabi mochi and traditional sweets in a calm Japanese setting.
Hiraso
Well-known specialist for kakinoha-zushi near central Nara. Expect classic pressed sushi and a straightforward traditional atmosphere.
Japanese yen (¥)
Moderate for Japan: hotels and dining are reasonable, while temple areas can cost more. Local trains and buses are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ¥800-1,200 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- ¥1,800-3,500 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ¥8,000+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- ¥400-600 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
No tipping expected. In restaurants, taxis, and cafés, pay the stated price only; tips may cause confusion or be politely refused.
のらんけ＋
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- ¥230
- Day pass
- ¥600
To the city centre
JR Nara Station -> Kintetsu Nara Station, Nara
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- On Nara Kotsu buses in central Nara, prepare the exact fare or an IC card. The standard adult bus fare example shown by the operator is ¥230.
- Useful day passes are sold by Nara Kotsu for sightseeing areas. Check the validity area before travel, as passes cover specific routes rather than all services.
FAQs: Kyoto to Nara train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kyoto to Nara by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Nara, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Kyoto to Nara in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Kyoto to Nara.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Kyoto and Nara
Most Kyoto to Nara trains use the Kyoto Station to Nara Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Kyoto and Nara train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Kyoto
Arrival train stations in Nara
Which Kyoto station do trains to Nara leave from?
Trains from Kyoto to Nara leave from Kyoto Station. The station is 4 km from Kyoto city centre at Karasuma-dōri, Shimogyō-ku, Kyoto, Japan.
Kyoto StationKarasuma-dōri, Shimogyō-ku, Kyoto, Japan
City-centre transport
Getting to Kyoto Station from Kyoto city centre
Kyoto Station is 3 km from Kyoto city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainJR Sagano Line Rapid Service, Sagano Line Local, Hashidate, Kinosaki, [188384] Ltd. Exp Maizuru 4, [188391] Ltd. Exp Maizuru 2 · 6m · £1 · every ~19 min
Bus205 · 7m · £1 · every ~34 min
28m
SubwayK: Karasuma · 7m · £1 · every ~16 min
Kyoto Station train station facilities and services
Kyoto Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: A wide variety of dining options are available, including The Cube Gourmet Street on the 11th floor and Kyoto Ramen Koji on the 10th floor.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the JR areas of the station. ATMs are aTMs are available throughout the station, including a 24-hour ATM at the Post Office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kyoto Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kyoto Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kyoto Station: The station is equipped with elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms to accommodate passengers with disabilities.
Nara Station1 Sanjohonmachi, Nara, 630-8122, Japan
Nara Station train station facilities and services
Nara Station has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nara Station: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Train stations for Kyoto to Nara
Check train stations information for Kyoto and Nara, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Kyoto that goes to Nara is Kyoto Station, and it arrives at Nara Station.
More options for your journey from Kyoto to Nara
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
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