Kyoto has various modes of transportation that takes you anywhere you want!

There are several train operators in the city and their services offer you such fast and reliable transportations. The below are main operators you may use.

Kyoto City Subway:

There are two lines: the Karasuma Line running north-south and the Tozai Line running east-west. The latter stops at JR Kyoto Station and the two subway lines cross in the centre of the city at Karasuma Oike station.

JR (Japan Rail):

JR operates many services from Kyoto Station including Shinkansen bullet trains to Tokyo and Osaka. JR trains are a good option for accessing the Arashiyama area, Fushimi Inarai Shrine and Byodoin in Uji. It is also a convenient choice to go to neighboring prefectures such as Osaka, Nara and Shiga.

Keihan Railway:

The line does not connect to Kyoto Station, but it connects Kyoto’s Demachi-yanagi with Osaka’s Yodoyabashi. Their services are such a useful way to visit sightseeing attractions in Uji and Fushimi areas. 

The Hankyu Railway:

Hankyu Line runs from Kawaramachi Shijo westwards in direction of Osaka and Kobe, connecting with the Kyoto City Subway at Karasuma Station. It is a good choice for accessing Katsura Villa and Arashiyama area. 

If you do not mind using your own energy to get around, there is no better transport than bicycle. Kyoto is such a bicycle-friendly city with easy roads to ride on. The road along Kamogawa is especially nice for any bicycle rider as it provides you not only a stress-free route with no cars but also a beautiful seasonal scene along the river. There are bike rental shops in the city, and the daily rental cost varies from 500 yen to 2,000 yen. Some shops have weekly rates. 

What you need to do to take a taxi is just wait in a taxi rank outside a train or bus station or simply raise your hand at an oncoming taxi. Most taxies cost more than 600 yen for the first 2 km. It may sound expensive, but if you want to visit as many places as possible in the limited time or have a group of three or four people, taxi would be the best choice. Moreover, as most taxi drivers are well-mannered, you would find the fare and their service reasonable. You can also charter a private taxi with an English-speaking driver.