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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Kansai, Japan

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

Most international visitors arrive via airports serving the Kansai region. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the main international gateway.

Airports

  • Kansai International Airport (KIX): Main international gateway, located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay.
  • Osaka Itami Airport (ITM): mainly for domestic flights within Japan, closer to Osaka city center.
  • Airlines: JAL, ANA, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, Delta, United, Lufthansa operate from KIX.

Flight Options & Transfers

Direct flights connect KIX to major global hubs. Transfer from airports to Nara is efficient.

Flight & Transfer Details

  • Direct flights to KIX from major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
  • Flight prices rise during peak seasons (cherry blossom, autumn leaves, Golden Week, Obon, New Year).
  • From KIX to Nara: JR Haruka train + JR Yamatoji Line (90-120 mins) or Nankai Rapid Express + Kintetsu Nara Line (90-110 mins).

Flight Deals

Find affordable flights with services like Dollar Flight Club.

Flight Comparison

Compare prices across various airlines using Skyscanner for the best options.

Airport Transfer

Direct Airport Limousine Bus service from KIX to Nara takes 80-90 minutes. Check Limousine Bus website.

Airport Facilities

Kansai International Airport KIX

  • Numerous dining options and extensive shopping.
  • Duty-free stores available for departing travelers.
  • Currency exchange and ATMs are readily available.
  • SIM card and Wi-Fi rental counters are present.

Osaka Itami Airport ITM

  • Smaller airport mainly for domestic services.
  • More limited facilities compared to KIX.
  • Most international travelers will use KIX due to its comprehensive services.
  • Luggage services are available at both airports.

Affiliate Flight & Car Rental Resources

Flight Comparison

Skyscanner for comparing flight options globally.

Flight Deals

Dollar Flight Club for finding discounted airfares.

Car Rentals

DiscoverCars.com for comparing car rental deals worldwide.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Nara enjoys excellent train connections to major cities in the Kansai region, making day trips and regional travel simple.

Connecting to Nara by Train

  • From Kyoto to Nara: JR Nara Line (Miyakoji Rapid, ~45 mins, Japan Rail Pass valid).
  • Kintetsu Kyoto Line (Limited Express, ~35 mins, Japan Rail Pass not valid).
  • From Osaka to Nara: JR Yamatoji Line (~30-50 mins, Japan Rail Pass valid).

Bus Travel & Self-Driving

Highway buses offer a budget-friendly alternative for longer distances, while self-driving has specific considerations.

Bus & Car Travel Notes

  • Long-Distance Buses: Connect Nara to Tokyo (~7-8 hours), Nagoya, Hiroshima (Willer Express, JR Bus).
  • Self-Driving: Not recommended for central Nara due to public transport, pedestrian zones, and expensive parking.
  • Driving Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under 1949 Geneva Convention, plus national driving license.

Road Conditions & Safety

Japanese roads are generally well-maintained and safe, with strict adherence to traffic laws.

Driving in Japan

  • Roads are in excellent condition.
  • Traffic can be heavy in urban areas.
  • Drive on the left side of the road.

Sea/River & Border Crossings

Nara is an inland city, so sea or river arrivals and border crossings are not applicable to this destination.

No Coastal Access

  • No ferry services or cruise ports in Nara.
  • Border crossing information is not relevant for an inland Japanese city.
  • This guide focuses solely on travel within Japan.

Driving Cautions

  • Driving in central Nara is not recommended due to traffic and parking.
  • Parking is limited and expensive near main attractions.
  • Strict drunk driving laws are enforced in Japan.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals require specific IDP endorsements.
  • Ensure your IDP is valid for your entire trip duration.
  • Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws before driving.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Plan your departure smoothly, allowing sufficient time for all necessary steps at the airport or station.

Check-in & Security

  • No specific exit fees or taxes are charged upon departure at the airport/seaport.
  • A ¥1,000 International Tourist Tax is included in airfare/ship fare, not paid separately.
  • Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights for check-in, security, customs, and immigration.

Airport/Station Facilities

Airports and major stations offer various facilities for departing travelers, from shopping to relaxation areas.

Traveler Services

  • KIX: Extensive shopping, duty-free stores, diverse dining, lounges, and relaxation areas.
  • JR Nara Station & Kintetsu Nara Station: Shops and restaurants for last-minute purchases or meals before train journey.
  • Confirm your flight or train schedule the day before departure.

Punctuality

Japan's transport systems are highly punctual. Factor this into your departure timing to avoid rushes.

Tax Inclusion

Remember the ¥1,000 International Tourist Tax is typically included in your airfare or ship fare.

Smooth Exit

Check current travel advisories and airline policies for any last-minute changes before leaving.

Departure Day Checklist

Final Preparations

Confirm all flight/train details, including terminal and gate numbers.