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Best transportation mode in Kyoto to see famous sites in 2 days?

Discover the best transport options in Kyoto, from taxis to buses and bikes. Find the most efficient way to explore Kyoto in just two days!

Best transportation mode in Kyoto to see famous sites in 2 days?

β€œWhat’s the best way to get around Kyoto in 2 days?”

A combination of bus + train + walking is the most efficient. But taxis can be surprisingly good value for groups.

Transportation Options Ranked

β€œWhat should I use?”

1. Bus (Most Useful)

  • Kyoto Bus Day Pass: Β₯700/day - covers most tourist areas
  • Routes connect all major temples and shrines
  • Can be crowded during peak season
  • Google Maps shows bus routes and times

2. Train/Subway

  • Best for longer distances (e.g., Kyoto Station to Arashiyama)
  • JR lines, Hankyu, Keihan - each covers different areas
  • Fast and reliable
  • Your JR Pass works on JR lines

3. Taxi

  • Surprisingly affordable for groups of 3-4
  • Starting fare: Β₯500
  • Great for getting to hard-to-reach temples
  • Drivers are honest and use meters

4. Bicycle

  • Kyoto is flat - perfect for cycling
  • Rental: Β₯1,000-1,500/day
  • Best way to explore at your own pace
  • Many rental shops near Kyoto Station

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

β€œHow should I plan my route?”

Day 1: Eastern Kyoto

  • Fushimi Inari (early morning - avoid crowds)
  • Kiyomizu-dera
  • Higashiyama walking streets
  • Gion district (evening)
  • Transport: Train to Fushimi Inari, then bus/walking

Day 2: Western Kyoto

  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (early morning)
  • Tenryu-ji Temple
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
  • Nijo Castle
  • Transport: Train to Arashiyama, then bus between sites

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals:

  • Ride bicycles for daily errands
  • Use the bus system regularly
  • Avoid driving in central Kyoto (narrow streets, no parking)
  • Walk more than tourists expect

Extra Travel Tips

  1. IC cards work on everything - Suica/PASMO accepted on all Kyoto transport

  2. Buses get very crowded in autumn - Consider taxis during peak foliage season

  3. Walk Higashiyama - The eastern temple area is best explored on foot

  4. Start early - Major temples open at 6:00-8:00 AM, before the crowds

  5. Skip the car - Driving in Kyoto is stressful and parking is expensive

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