Getting to Kyoto

As the historical capital of Japan, Kyoto is easily accessible from all corners of the country. A single 135-minute Shinkansen ride will bring you to Kyoto Station from Tokyo Station, while a 80-minute Haruka Express ride will do the same from Kansai Airport. Different express busses and trains are available from any other main airport and city.

Getting to Japan

While Japan is well served by the most important international airlines, due to its historical roots, Kyoto city doesn’t have a local airport. The nearest and most convenient international airports are:

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Osaka International Airport–Itami (ITM)

Short train rides (or limousine busses) can bring you from those two airports to Kyoto City.

Many international flights from the US and Europe land in Tokyo, the capital city, instead. It’s two main airports are:

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Haneda International Airport (HND)

You can book a local flight from any of those airports to either Kansai or Itami airport, and then take a train or limousine bus to Kyoto City, or you can take local trains to Tokyo Station and, from there, take a direct Shinkansen ride to Kyoto Station.

Visa Requirements

If you are citizen from any of a list of 68 countries, you don’t need a visa to enter Japan.  Please, review that list and all other requirements at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website. Please note that some citizens from those countries may still need a visa to enter Japan in case they don’t comply with all the requirements listed there. If in doubt, contact your local Japanese Government Consulate for further assistance.

Citizens from other countries will need a short-term visa to enter Japan. Please, contact your local Japanese Government Consulate to inquire about the process. Invitation Letters may be issued, upon request, to registered participants.