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With the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass in hand, you can explore Japan's Kansai region with cost-effective travel and an exciting itinerary. Don't forget to check out this handy usage guide!
If you've thoroughly enjoyed exploring Tokyo and are unsure where to head next, why not venture straight to Kyoto and Osaka? Kyoto is an ideal destination for those eager to delve into Japan's rich culture and history, with its temples, shrines, and museums. These sites are part of the nation's preserved heritage, standing the test of time!
Beyond Kyoto, another must-visit destination is Osaka, a city you've likely heard much about. Renowned for its vibrant food and entertainment scene, Osaka offers delicious specialties like okonomiyaki and takoyaki , alongside famous attractions such as Universal Studios and Osaka Castle!
If you're concerned about navigating Kyoto and Osaka without purchasing multiple train tickets, the “Kyoto & Osaka Sightseeing Pass" is your perfect solution. This single, powerful card grants you access to all the train rides you need while traveling in Kyoto and Osaka! Keep reading below for more details!
What is the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass?
Say goodbye to long queues and the hassle of buying individual train tickets—the "Kyoto & Osaka Sightseeing Pass" offers unlimited travel on the Keihan Railway and Otokoyama Cable Line, allowing you to explore Kyoto and Osaka with ease!
This pass comes in two options: a 1-day package and a 2-day package. The 1-day package is perfect for a quick trip to Kyoto and Osaka, while the 2-day package is ideal for those who want to explore more attractions across both cities.
Below is a map of the routes covered by the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass:
How to Use the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass
Not sure how to use this pass? Don’t worry—Mytour will guide you step by step:
- Log in to your account on the Mytour website or app
- Select and purchase the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass
- Check your email to confirm your booking
- Go to “Bookings” to activate your pass
- You’ll receive a voucher
- Visit any Keihan Railway ticket office to collect your pass
- Keihan Railway Yodoyai Station Ticket Office
- Keihan Railway Kyoi Station Ticket Office
- Keihan Railway Kitahama Station Ticket Office
- Keihan Railway Temmai Station Ticket Office
The Amazing Benefits of the "Magical" Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass
1. Unlimited Access to Keihan and Otokoyama Lines
Simply present your voucher and passport at any ticket office in Kyoto or Osaka to receive your train pass, and you’re ready to explore both cities!
2. Discover Kyoto and Osaka’s Top Attractions with Just One Pass
Instead of purchasing individual tickets, you can visit various attractions in Kyoto and Osaka, such as Osaka Castle, Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, all with just one powerful pass!
3. Enjoy Flexible Travel with Your 1-Day or 2-Day Sightseeing Pass
No need to worry about which pass to choose, as both options can be used anytime until April 30, 2024. For those who opt for the 2-day pass, you don’t have to use it on consecutive days!
4. Exclusive Discounts
Get special discounted entry fees to selected attractions when you purchase the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass!
(*) Important Note: To learn more about the exclusive benefits of the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass, simply scan the QR code printed on the front of the pass.
What to Do in Kyoto? Top Kyoto Travel Activities
Now that you know what the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass is, Mytour has prepared a list of must-visit attractions for your Kyoto adventure!
1. Marvel at the Iconic Red Torii Gates on a Walk to Fushimi Inari Shrine
Considered one of Kyoto's most significant shrines, it’s no surprise that this spot is a favorite among travelers. If you want to experience the endless path of red Torii gates, a must-see for many, this is the place for you!
As you approach the Torii gates, you’ll find a mountain trail that takes 2 to 3 hours to climb. Once you reach the top, the breathtaking view of Kyoto will leave you in awe!
2. Discover the Wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace
Feel like royalty as you explore Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace in Kyoto. Strolling through the castle grounds and the expansive palace complex offers a glimpse into Japan’s history, from the castle’s architecture to the palace’s well-preserved interiors.
To fully explore Nijo Castle, make sure to visit its three main areas: Honmaru (the main defense circle), Ninomaru (the secondary defense circle), and the surrounding gardens. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of Nijo Castle to capture memories of your trip!
Once inside the Ninomaru area, you’ll have the chance to visit Ninomaru Palace. Here, you can explore the palace’s meticulously preserved rooms and step outside to admire the stunning Ninomaru Garden, a traditional Japanese garden featuring a large pond and carefully maintained pine trees.
3. Step into the World of Manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum
For manga fans, the Kyoto International Manga Museum is a must-visit destination! Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by the “Manga Wall,” home to over 50,000 manga volumes. There’s also a section dedicated to foreign and translated manga, but the majority of the collection is, of course, in Japanese!
After marveling at the vast manga collection, head to the exhibition titled “What is Manga?” to learn about the history of manga and see famous works from the Taisho era. The museum also features a reading area with over 250,000 manga volumes, perfect for diving into a few stories during your visit!
What to Do in Osaka? Unmissable Osaka Travel Activities
1. Admire the Stunning Cityscape at Umeda Sky Building and Kuchu Teien Observatory
Your trip to Osaka wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Umeda Sky Building and Kuchu Teien Observatory! The building’s unique design features two 40-story towers connected by a bridge and escalators, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Osaka. Beyond its impressive architecture, the breathtaking city views from the Kuchu Teien Observatory are something you won’t want to miss. To make your visit even more exciting, you can choose this package on Mytour, which includes a free heart-shaped lock you can engrave! You can either leave the lock behind or take it home as a souvenir—it’s up to you!
2. Step into the World of LEGO at LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Families with young children will love this attraction—the LEGOLAND Discovery Center! Aside from building structures with thousands of LEGO bricks, there are plenty of LEGO-themed activities to enjoy, such as the Kingdom Quest ride, where you hop on a vehicle and embark on a mission to rescue a princess. Additionally, The Great LEGO Race offers a thrilling virtual reality experience, taking you through an exciting LEGO race where you’ll face off against wizard, pirate, and pharaoh LEGO characters!
Other highlights include LEGO Racers: Build & Test, where both kids and adults can create their own LEGO vehicles and race them on a speed track. If you’re looking for a more relaxed activity, the 4D Cinema lets you sit back and enjoy a LEGO movie in 4D.
3. Dive into Osaka’s History at the Osaka Museum of History
If you’re eager to learn more about the city’s history and culture, the Osaka Museum of History is a must-visit. The museum features exhibits like the “Modern and Contemporary Period” floor, where you can walk through a life-sized, realistic panorama of “Greater Osaka” during the modern era, complete with artworks and images of the city from the late Taisho and early Showa periods.
Another floor, “Digging into History,” offers workshops where you can try your hand at completing a project using authentic archaeological tools and reference materials. Don’t worry—experts will guide you through the process!
Next is the “Medieval and Early Modern Period” floor, where you can explore Osaka during the Hongan-ji era, a temple that fought against Lord Oda Nobunaga. Wander through the streets of the “Water City” during the Edo period and admire detailed miniatures of the bustling town from that time.
Finally, the “Ancient Period” floor welcomes you with a large screen showcasing ancient court life. Here, you’ll also find replicas of red-lacquered pillars from ancient palaces and mannequins dressed in traditional court attire.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass
1. Who Can Purchase the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass?
The Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass is available for foreign tourists and does not require a Japanese passport.
2. Should I Buy the 1-Day or 2-Day Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass?
If you plan to explore both cities in a single day, opt for the 1-Day Pass. If you want to dedicate one day to each city, the 2-Day Pass is the best choice.
3. How Do I Activate the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass?
After purchasing the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass, keep your e-voucher and present it at any of the following Keihan Railway ticket offices to exchange for the pass:
- Keihan Yodoyai Station Ticket Office
- Keihan Kyoi Station Ticket Office
- Keihan Kitahama Station Ticket Office
- Keihan Temmai Station Ticket Office
- Keihan Sanjo Station Ticket Office
4. Can I Change the Date of Use for the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass?
Yes. The Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass does not have fixed dates, but it is only valid until April 30, 2024.
5. Is the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass an E-Ticket?
No. After booking the pass, you’ll receive an e-voucher confirmation, which you’ll need to present at selected Keihan Railway ticket offices to exchange for a physical pass.
Now, enjoy exploring Kyoto and Osaka without breaking the bank with your loved ones! You can also read more articles to better prepare for your trip, such as: Latest Japan Self-Guided Travel Tips; 22 Must-Visit Famous Tourist Spots in Osaka; 31 Japan Travel Destinations for Year-Round Adventures...
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