Nara 🚆 Option 1: JR Line (Using Japan Rail Pass)

Route: Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Nara Station

Train: Miyakoji Rapid (or Local if Rapid is not available)

Time: ~45 minutes

Cost: About ¥720 (free if you have a JR Pass)

Arrival Station: JR Nara Station – a 15–20 minute walk to Nara Park / Todai-ji

🟢 Best if: You have a JR Pass or are staying near Kyoto Station.

🚆 Option 2: Kintetsu Line

Route: Take the Kintetsu Kyoto Line from Kintetsu Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station

Train: Limited Express (~35 mins, reserved seat) or Express (~45 mins, no reservation)

Time: 35–45 minutes

Cost: ¥640 for Express, ¥1,260 for Limited Express

Arrival Station: Kintetsu Nara Station – just 5–10 minutes on foot to Nara Park / Todai-ji

🟠 Best if: You want the closest drop-off to Nara’s attractions, or are staying near central Kyoto (e.g. Gion/Shijo)

Start at Fushimi Inari Shrine (easy access via JR Nara Line from Nara)

Walk through the iconic thousands of red torii gates (~1–1.5 hours)
Then head to Gion for an atmospheric late afternoon stroll—check out Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Street, and maybe stay for dinner in Pontocho Alley