How do tourists get around in Kyoto?

Tourists in Kyoto primarily navigate the city using a combination of subways, trains, and an extensive, albeit sometimes slow, bus network. Key strategies include using IC cards (Suica/Pasmo/ICOCA) for seamless travel, utilizing the two main subway lines for speed, and taking buses to reach specific tourist sites. Taxis are also common for shorter, direct trips.

What is the best way to get around Kyoto?

Kyoto is a compact city with a well-developed transport network. It's very easy to get around. The subways and trains are the most convenient way to get around the city. Buses are less convenient, but cover almost the whole city.

How to pay for public transport in Kyoto?

Transportation IC cards can be used on buses within Kyoto City. Fare boxes function differently depending on their bus operator: City buses and West Japan JR buses: Passengers who pay in cash (coins or 1,000 yen bills) can receive change. Payment by transportation IC cards is also possible.

Can I use Uber in Kyoto?

Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in Kyoto. Request a ride up to 30 days ahead, whether you need transportation to the airport, you have plans to visit a restaurant, or you're going somewhere else.

Is Kyoto a walkable city?

Kyoto is a wonderful city for walking – it's compact, largely flat, the weather is comfortable most of the year, and drivers are sane. Here are three different one day itineraries for walkers, covering the famous districts of Southern Higashiyama, Northern Higashiyama and Arashiyama.

Kyoto's Public Transport Options for First-Time Travelers

Is there a Grab in Kyoto?

Grab - The Platform Mainly for Southeast Asian Users

Since 2019, the users of Grab are able to utilize the taxi app in Japan, available in Tokyo, Kyoto, Sapporo, Nagoya, and Okinawa. It can be registered with your phone number, Google or Facebook account; and a credit card should be bound before the use.

Should I avoid Kyoto on weekends?

Plan Your Visit Around the Crowds

With fewer tourists and beautifully lit temples in the evenings, it's one of the best times to explore Kyoto's less crowded places. Weekdays > weekends. Always. According to locals and Kyoto Reddit threads, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are golden for avoiding congestion.

What do Japanese people use instead of Uber?

The best taxi app for international tourists in Japan is GO, boasting the largest number of taxis, the widest coverage and a user-friendly interface. Also easy to use - especially in urban areas - are Uber and DiDi, which in Japan also function mainly as taxi-hailing rather than ridesharing apps.

Where to buy a 1 day pass in Kyoto?

Where to Purchase

• Kyoto City Bus & Subway Information Center.
• Commuter Pass Sales Booth.
• Kyoto City Bus Management Center.
• Subway Station.
• On Any Kyoto City Bus *1.
• Convenience stores, etc *2.

Do I need cash in Kyoto?

In Japan, you'll use an IC card for local transport and small purchases, and a credit card for big purchases (hotels etc). But you still need some Japanese cash. Here's the lowdown on ATMs, changing cash and using credit cards in Kyoto.

How do foreigners get around in Japan?

Train travel around Japan is simple and convenient. Numbered stations and color-coded train lines make it easy to hop from one train to another. Some trains offer two kinds of tickets—the basic train fare and one that allows you to reserve your tickets ahead of time.

Will Uber pick me up at 4am?

Hours of Operation

Remember, you can always request a ride anytime, 24/7, in Uber's mobile app or online.

Why are we boycotting Uber?

The company is planning on starting a trial in several US cities by the end of 2025. Uber has been accused of partnering with an Israeli company and therefore investing in Israel amid the genocide in Gaza.

Is it cheaper to book an Uber in advance or last minute?

There is no difference in the pricing between normal Uber rides and scheduled rides – that means no extra cost for booking your Uber in advance! However, pricing is based on demand at the time of your order, so if you reserve at peak-hour traffic your ride might be a little more expensive.

Are taxis in Kyoto cash only?

How Much Do Kyoto Taxis Cost And How Do You Pay? Most taxis cost ¥620 for the first 1.5km. All taxis accept cash, and most accept credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) and IC cards. When you pay by card, you normally use a machine on the back of the seat in front of you.

Do taxi drivers in Kyoto speak English?

Just be aware that some drivers may not speak English well, so explaining your destination may be difficult. Also, occasionally suitcases do not fit in the vehicle, and some taxis do not accept credit cards.

Can foreigners use a go taxi in Japan?

One of Japan's largest taxi-hailing services, GO Taxi is known for its extensive availability across not only Tokyo but the entirety of Japan. Moreover, users are able to use the app in English as well making it foreigner friendly.

Are shorts ok in Kyoto?

You can certainly wear shorts when sightseeing on hot days, but they should be neat and clean (ie, not cut-off jeans or board shorts).

Can I speak English in Kyoto?

The primary language spoken in Kyoto, as well as throughout Japan, is Japanese. However, don't be discouraged if you don't speak Japanese fluently. Many locals in Kyoto, especially those working in the tourism industry, can communicate in English to some extent.

Which month should I avoid visiting Japan?

If you are not a fan of huge crowds, mid-March and mid-April are the months you should avoid visiting Japan. Apart from the Cherry Blossom months, the Golden Week (it is the amalgamation of the New Year's holiday and the holiday of Obon in the month of August – back-to-back) is a busy season as well.