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Osaka to Nara Distance: How Far is Nara from Osaka
The distance from Osaka to Nara is approximately 19.9 miles (32 kilometers) by car and 21.9 miles (35 kilometers) by train. The train to Nara offers scenic views of the countryside, while the car ride allows for more flexibility.
To get to Nara from Osaka, you can choose either mode of transportation. The trip provides a delightful combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect escape from the bustling city of Nara.
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With Train being a popular way to get to Nara a Osaka to Nara Day Trip reaching Nara Park directly to see the temples and deers is always the smoothest way to travel. And there’s also the Limousine Bus to get to Nara from Osaka Itami Airport.
In the meantime, joining a tour with Asia Odyssey Travel can be the most ideal way to get to Nara from Osaka. With our tour, you will enjoy private transportation options, more freedom in terms of time and schedule, the ability to choose which destinations to stop by on the way, and an insightful local guide to accompany you all along the way from Osaka to Nara. Talk to your travel expert we will have everything planned out.
Osaka to Nara Train: Shinkansen Bullet Train & More (2 Best Ways)
Japanese trains are renowned for their cleanliness and comfort, namely the most iconic Japanese Shikansen Bullet Train and Kintetsu Railway. Especially the Shikansen itself stands as a must-try experience for many tourists visiting Japan. Get to Nara by Train can be a great travel idea. Yet there is a bit research needed since the railway network in Japan is operated various companies.
Two train lines connect the cities of Osaka and Nara: the JR Yamatoji Line, and the Kintetsu Nara Line. The JR line is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, but the Kintetsu Line is not. Read on to find out more about Nara to Osaka Train.
Two train lines offer convenient options to get to Nara from Osaka: the JR Yamatoji Line, and the Kintetsu Nara Line. JR train from Osaka to Nara is famous. Kintetsu train is faster and slightly cheaper way to Nara. Continue reading to explore your train options from Osaka to Nara.
Kintetsu vs. JR for Osaka to Nara Train at a glance:
| Feature | Kintetsu | JR |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 30-40 minutes | 50-60 minutes |
| Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Coverage | Primarily Kansai region | Nationwide |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Slightly more expensive |
| JR Pass Coverage | Not covered | Covered |
| Location of Nara Station | Closer to main attractions | Further from main attractions |
| Frequency | More frequent trains | Less frequent trains |
JR Yamatoji Line Bullet Train from Osaka to Nara: Signature Shinkansen Train Option
| Option | Time Required | Price | Price (Child YEN) | Departure Station | Train Details | Arrival Station |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1:06 | ¥820 | 410 | JR Osaka | Osaka Loop Line - Yamatoji Line(for NISHIKUJO) | JR Nara |
| 2 | 1:03 | ¥820 | ¥410 | JR Osaka | Ltd. Express Haruka (for KANSAI AIRPORT) - Rapid Service Train of Yamatoji Line(for KYOTO) | JR Nara |
| 3 | 1:09 | ¥820 | ¥410 | JR Osaka | Local Train of Osaka Loop Line (for NISHIKUJO) Local Train of Yamatoji Line(for NARA) | JR Nara |
JR Osaka Station: 3 Chome-1-1 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0001, Japan.
JR Osaka Station is located in the bustling heart of Osaka and is easily accessible thanks to Japan's extensive public transportation network in Osaka.
JR Nara Station: 1 Sanjōhonmachi, Nara, 630-8122, Japan.
JR Nara Station is located within 3 kilometers or 1.7 miles of the nearest Nara attractions, Todaiji Temple and Nara Park.
When you go to Nara from Osaka by train, the JR Nara Station is considered to be first-time tourists friendly and the JR Shikansen Bullet Train itself is a must-try experience when traveling in Japan. And yes, you can use JR pass, the Unlimited travel pass for most JR trains.
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If you are traveling by train to get to Nara from Nara, the Osaka Loop Line (for Nishikujo) with the Local Train of the Yamatoji Line is your best option. While this option involves traveling on two train lines on paper, they are actually operated by the same vehicle. So traveling with this option from JR Osaka Station to JR Nara Station requires no transfer making it one of the best options for Osaka to Nara Train.
Kintesu Train from Osaka to Nara: Faster & Cheaper Train to Reach Nara
| Route | Time Required | Price | Price (Child YEN) | Departure Station | Train Details | Arrival Station |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 40 min | ¥680 | ¥340 | Osaka-Namba | Rapid Express To:Kintetsu-Nara | Kintetsu-Nara |
| 2 | 35 min | ¥1,200 | ¥340 | Osaka-Namba | Limited Express To:Kintetsu-Nara | Kintetsu-Nara |
Osaka-Namba: 5 Chome-1番60号 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-8503, Japan
Osaka-Namba station is a major transportation hub in Osaka, connecting various train lines and subway systems.
Kintetsu-Nara: 1 Sanjōhonmachi, Nara, 630-8122, Japan
Kintetsu-Nara station is the main station for Nara city and serves as a gateway to popular tourist destinations like Todaiji Temple and Nara Park. And it is bit closer to the Nara attractions than JR Nara Station.
Kintesu is another major railway company in Japan. The routes of Kintesu railway is a little more price friendly.
Insider Tips for Taking Nara to Osaka Train
To buy train tickets to get to Nara from Osaka, a number of ticket machines are available at JR Nara Station for your convenience. They are simple to use, with instructions available in both Japanese and English.
Choosing the Train Line
JR Yamatoji Line: Fastest, direct.
JR Kansai Line: Slower, more stops.
Kintetsu Nara Line: Often quicker, closer to attractions.
Buying Tickets
At station: Use machines or counters.
Online: JR West, Japan Rail Pass app, Kintetsu website/app.
IC cards: ICOCA, Suica, Pasmo.
Navigating Train Stations
Osaka: Follow signs for JR lines at Osaka/Tennoji, Kintetsu at Namba.
Nara: JR Nara is organized, Kintetsu Nara is closer to sights.
Timing and Schedule
Avoid peak times: 7-9 AM, 5-7 PM.
Traveling with Luggage
Use overhead racks, coin lockers, or travel light.
Accessibility
Facilities: Elevators, escalators, and ramps are available at both JR and Kintetsu stations.
Assistance: Seek help from station staff if needed.
Taxis in Japan can be expensive, sometimes a taxi ride costs more than an international flight. Although Attractions in Nara are relatively close to transportation hubs, they are still at least 3 kilometers or 1.7 miles away.
If you prioritize comfort and value during your Japan trip, Asia Odyssey Travel offers tours with personalized transportation, knowledgeable local guides, and exceptional service, taking you seamlessly from your Osaka hotel to Nara or any desired attraction. Contact us now.
Osaka to Nara Bus: Direct Bust Routes from Both Osaka Airports
Because of Japan's well-established railway network, there are no intercity buses from the Nara city area to Nara. However, if you are heading straight to Nara once you land at the Osaka airports, there are airport bus routes operating from both Osaka Itami Airport and Kansai International Airport to take you to Nara.
Osaka to Nara Bus From Osaka Itami Airport
| Itami Airport to Nara Bus | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Hankyu Kanko Bus, Nara Kotsu Bus |
| Major Stops | Itami Airport, Nara Station |
| Travel Time (Osaka (Itami) Airport - Nara Station) | 1 hour 17 min |
| One-Way Fare (Adult) | ¥1,750 |
| One-Way Fare (Child) | ¥880 |
| Schedule (Kansai Airport to Nara) | 8:40,9:40,10:40,11:55,13:15,14:35,16:40,18:00,19:00, 20:10, 21:00 |
Osaka to Nara Bus From Kansai International Airport
| Kansai to Nara Bus | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Kansai Airport Transportation Enterprise |
| Major Stops | Kansai Airport Terminal 1, Kansai Airport Terminal 2, 10:15, JR Nara Station |
| Travel Time (Kansai Airport - Nara Station) | 1 hour to 1 hour 43 min |
| One-Way Fare (Adult) | ¥2,400 |
| One-Way Fare (Child) | ¥1,200 |
| Schedule (Kansai Airport to Nara) | 8:45,10:45, 14:45, 17:45,20:45 |
How to Plan a Day Trip from Osaka to Nara
A day trip from Osaka to Nara is not only possible but also enjoyable with various Bus and Train options to get to Nara from Osaka. Here’s an idea to plan a Nara Day Trip from Osaka.
Morning: Start Your Nara Day Trip from Osaka
Hop on a morning train to reach Nara using about an hour. Once you get to Nara start you exploration at the historical Nara with exquisite buildings and adorable deers.
Kofuku-ji Temple: Start your day at this impressive temple complex. Allow 1-2 hours to explore the various halls and gardens.
Nara National Museum: Located nearby, this museum houses a rich collection of Buddhist art and artifacts. Allow 1-2 hours for a visit.
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Afternoon: Nara Day Trip to Visit the Famous Deer
Kasuga Taisha Shrine: This iconic shrine is a short walk away. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and admire the beautiful lanterns. Allow 1 hour, if you love the traditional Japanese architecture this Nara attraction deserve at least 2 hours.
Nara Park: After Kasuga Taisha, you'll enter Nara Park. Spend time feeding the deer, visiting the Isuien Garden, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Allocate 2-3 hours.
Later Afternoon: Sunset at Wakakusa Mountain
Wakakusa Yama: Walk up to Wakakusa Yama for a breathtaking sunset view. The hike is relatively easy and takes about 30-45 minutes. Plan to arrive at the summit at least an hour before sunset if time allows.
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With multiple train options, you can easily return to Osaka or continue your journey to Kyoto. This Osaka to Nara Day Trip is just a starting point.
If you prefer a hassle-free guided experience, consider joining a tour with Asia Odyssey Travel to explore the entire Kansai Region with private transportation and a knowledgeable local guide!
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel to Nara, Visit Sacred Deer, Temples & More
Already marveled at Tokyo's skyline and walked through Kyoto's serene Japanese Garden? It's time to experience Nara! Join Asia Odyssey Travel to uncover Japan's ancient heart, the very first capital of Japan!
Nara is the embodiment of "Japan's timeless charm." Stroll through Nara Park, have a fun play date with sacred deer, better yet, roam freely with them! Discover the grandeur of Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha. Nara offers a tranquil escape into Japan’s rich history and natural beauty, a place where ancient traditions and serene landscapes create an unforgettable experience.
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Asia Odyssey Travel, Your trusted travel companion since 2010. Talk to your travel expert - Your amazing Japan tour awaits!
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