The Kansai area, which comprises Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, the port city of Kobe, and other famous destinations, is full of sights and attractions.
Explore Kansai cost-efficiently using travel passes that are available exclusively for tourists! These include the Osaka Amazing Pass or the 5-day JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass. Read on to learn more.
Top 10 Osaka Travel Passes
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1. Osaka Amazing Pass and Osaka e-Pass
Picture courtesy of Klook
The Osaka Amazing Pass is available in one-day or two-day versions and covers unlimited rides on the Osaka subway, tramway, and bus lines. (*This pass cannot be used on JR lines.)
The pass also includes free entry to more than 40 famous places to visit and activities in Osaka, from the Osaka Water Bus to the Umeda Sky Building Observatory.
As an option, you can also add the Osaka e-Pass, which covers the admission to 20 other attractions such as the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, Redhorse Osaka Wheel (Ferris Wheel), GLION MUSEUM, and more!
Coverage area: Osaka City
Validity: 1 or 2 days
Price: 13.75 USD
Book the Osaka Amazing Pass & Osaka e-Pass
2. JR West Kansai Area Pass
Picture courtesy of Klook
From seeing some of the most polite and cuddly deer friends in Nara to enjoying some well-earned retail therapy in Kobe, you might think that trying to cram all of Kansai would break the bank, right? Well, at least your transport costs can come down a little.
Kobe Port Tower. Photo by Pixta
With the JR West Kansai Area Pass you can enjoy unlimited travel on all of the rapid, special rapid, and local trains of the JR West lines as well as the Haruka airport express. So seeing the traditional grandeur of Kyoto temples and shrines for one day and filling up on the street food of Osaka is totally doable!
With up to four consecutive days of travel, this pass has never been more convenient. However, do note that the pass cannot be used to ride Shinkansen bullet trains like some other JR passes.
Coverage area: Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Himeji, Kansai Airport
Validity: 1 to 4 days
Price: 19.35 USD
Book the JR West Kansai Area Pass
3. JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass
Picture courtesy of Klook
The JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass covers popular cities and areas in the Kansai region of Japan. Similar to the Kansai West Area Pass, it makes use of the extensive railways owned by JR that let visitors see so many parts of this region. However, the pass extends its reach to the southern Honshu region, encompassing exciting destinations such as Tottori, Okayama, and Takamatsu.
Okayama's Kurashiki Bikan district. Photo by Pixta
This flexible pass not only grants unrestricted travel on JR lines but also enables holders to ride the swift San'yo Shinkansen, connecting Shin-Osaka and Okayama. The pass is built for five days of travel and when you book through Klook you can also pick up add-ons for Wakayama, Amanohashidate in Northern Kyoto, and the Have Fun in Okayama Pass.
Encompassing a wide array of destinations, this pass caters to a diverse range of interests. History enthusiasts can delve deep into the traditional heart of Japan, immersing themselves in the historical landmarks pivotal to Japan's development. Meanwhile, nature lovers can find their solace in the sprawling hiking trails and revered pilgrimage spots of Wakayama, or lose themselves amidst the captivating sand dunes of Tottori.
Coverage area: Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kansai Airport, Kobe, Himeji, Amanohashidate, Kinosaki Onsen, Tottori, Okayama, Takamatsu
Validity: 5 days
Price: 82.35 USD
Book the JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass
4. JR Kansai Hokuriku Area Pass
Picture courtesy of Klook
Move over Tokyo to Osaka, a new golden route might just have you beat! One of Japan’s best-kept secrets, the Hokuriku region, is well within your reach using the JR Kansai Hokuriku Area Pass.
The Higashi Chaya district in Kanazawa. Photo by Pixta
This seven-day pass covers much of the main areas of Kansai but throws in the amazing region of Kanazawa as part of the mix as well. The Hokuriku region is filled with traditional and natural beauty as well as a culinary scene to rival Osaka’s.
Why not try a traditional farm stay at a rustic farmhouse or maybe some tasty culinary delights at the markets in Kanazawa? Or maybe you’re looking to try your hands at traditional arts and crafts? This makes getting to experience these things a whole lot easier!
Coverage area: Osaka, Kansai Airport, Himeji, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Okayama (Kurashiki), Wakayama, Kanazawa, Toyama
Validity: 7 days
Price: 116.65 USD
Book the JR Kansai Hokuriku Area Pass
5. JR Kansai Mini Pass
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If you're seeking a compact pass to experience the best of Kansai, the JR Kansai Mini Pass might be just what you need. Encompassing a majority of JR lines that connect Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, and Nara, this pass is reasonably priced at 3,000 yen and offers unlimited rides for three days.
Photo by Pixta
All of Kansai’s greatest attractions are within reach with this pass, from the striking red Kobe Port Tower to the vibrant nightlife and street food paradise of Osaka's Namba. Consider using it as part of a pilgrimage to Universal Studios Japan, allowing you to absorb more of Kansai's rich culture while enjoying these attractions. Additionally, as you wrap up your journey, the pass will facilitate your travel to the airport via the Kansai-Airport Rapid service.
It's worth noting, however, that this pass does not cover limited express trains, including the renowned Hello Kitty Haruka, which requires reserved seating for use. Nonetheless, with a half-price version available for children, it serves as an excellent three-day family pass, ideal for those visiting Kansai.
Coverage area: Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe
Validity: 3 days
Price: 20.59 USD
6. JR Sanyo-San'in Area Pass
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The JR San'yo Sanin Area Pass is a seven-day travel pass for exploring western Japan. Employing a formula similar to many of the JR passes on this list, it covers all the rapid services in the area.
Hiroshima. Photo by Pixta
What sets this pass apart is its inclusion of the San'yo Shinkansen line, connecting Shin-Osaka and Hakata (Fukuoka). Encompassing a substantial portion of the southern part of the main island Honshu, this pass allows visitors to explore a myriad of amazing sights.
The possibilities for a week-long itinerary are endless. If you consider yourself a history enthusiast, the pass offers an opportunity to visit the great World Heritage temples of Japan, spanning from Kyoto to Izumo. Alternatively, for those seeking stunning hiking and natural scenery, using the pass to explore the picturesque locations around the Seto Inland Sea might be very appealing.
Coverage area: Osaka, Himeji, Tottori, Hiroshima, Takamatsu, Fukuoka
Validity: 7 days
Price: 157.85 USD
Book the JR Sanyo-San'in Area Pass
7. Kansai Thru Pass
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The Kansai Thru Pass is an excellent way to navigate the regions in and around Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Kyoto. It covers several major private railway companies operating in the area, offering remarkable flexibility and access to a variety of attractions and stores.
Available in two and three-day variants, this pass can be pre-booked for convenient pickup when you embark on your adventure. You're not obligated to use the pass for the entire duration initially booked, allowing you to use it as needed, adding to its convenience. Additionally, you'll receive valuable discounts at participating shops and attractions.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto. Photo by Pixta
Throughout the year, the Kansai area showcases a multitude of captivating sights and attractions, and with this pass, you'll have the opportunity to experience the very best it has to offer.
Take the Keihan line to immerse yourself in the heart of traditional Japanese culture in Kyoto. Alternatively, journey via the Hankyu line to witness a performance by the famed Takarazuka Musical Theatre Company. And for sports enthusiasts, take the Hanshin Line to soak up the electrifying atmosphere at a baseball game at Koshien Stadium.
Coverage area: Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, Wakayama, Koyasan (*can be used on all railways except JR)
Validity: 2 or 3 days
Price: 29.39 USD
8. Kyoto & Osaka Sightseeing Pass
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Kyoto has long been revered as a hub for traditional culture, artistry, and culinary delights in Japan. With the Kyoto & Osaka Sightseeing Pass offered by Keihan Railways, you can fully immerse yourself in all that this vibrant city has to offer. This pass provides access to an extensive network of lines throughout Kyoto.
Available in several varieties, including one or two-day options, the pass also allows for add-ons that broaden its coverage to include transportation means such as the Osaka Metro, as well as picturesque spots like Kurama and Kibune.
Kyoto's Kiyomizudera Temple. Photo by Pixta
Ideal for visitors looking to maximize their time in the Kyoto-Osaka area, this pass caters to various interests. Are you eager to explore the renowned green tea-growing region of Uji? Rest assured, this pass has you covered, allowing your matcha-filled dreams to come to life. If relaxation and rejuvenation at the hot spring resorts in Kurama are what you seek, this pass facilitates your journey to this tranquil retreat.
Coverage area: Osaka, Kyoto (*valid exclusively on Keihan Lines and the Otokoyama Cable Line)
Validity: 1 or 2 days
Price: 4.15 USD
Book the Kyoto & Osaka Sightseeing Pass
9. Hankyu Tourist Pass
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The Hankyu Tourist Pass presents an array of splendid destinations in Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto. This pass, facilitating travel across the Hankyu Railway network, allows visitors to explore numerous captivating sights and offers alternative routes to some of the area's more popular destinations, serving as a complement to the JR lines.
Primarily tailored for travel around Kyoto and the surrounding Hyogo region, the pass provides access to the renowned area of Arashiyama within Kyoto. Treasured for its natural beauty and the iconic bamboo grove, the pass offers seamless access to this enchanting locale. Furthermore, it enables travelers to effortlessly reach the heart of Kyoto, the Gion Entertainment District, all in under 30 minutes.
Picture courtesy of Klook
During the cherry blossom season, visitors can marvel at the beautiful blooms around Shukugawa Park in Kobe, providing an idyllic spot for a delightful picnic. Additionally, when the fall foliage season arrives, passengers can journey to the renowned waterfalls at Minoo, perhaps even indulging in a flavorful craft beer brewed locally in the area.
Coverage area: Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe (*valid exclusively on Hankyu Lines)
Validity: 1 or 2 days
Price: 4.80 USD
10. Osaka Metro Pass
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When visiting Osaka, visitors can tap into the city's extensive underground network using the Osaka Metro Pass, allowing for comprehensive exploration of the city's diverse neighborhoods. Whether seeking out hidden local culinary gems or traditional shopping streets, the possibilities are endless.
Picture courtesy of Klook
Available in both one and two-day varieties, the Osaka Metro Pass provides unlimited transfers across the Osaka Metro network, as well as discounted entry to select Osaka attractions, including Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building. Additionally, visitors can utilize the Imazato Liner buses as an alternative means of navigating the city.
This pass is ideal for those eager to fully immerse themselves in the neighborhoods around Osaka, enabling them to explore to their hearts' content. Who knows, you might stumble upon a traditional shopping street around Tsuruhashi offering delectable kimchi, or uncover a retro gaming resale shop in Nipponbashi!
Coverage area: Osaka City (*valid exclusively on Osaka Metro lines)
Validity: 1 or 2 days
Price: 4.49 USD
Enjoy Exploring Osaka and the Kansai Region!
The Kansai region offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending traditional and modern, natural and urban environments, making it an ideal destination for exploration. Whether you're planning an extensive journey or contemplating a shorter excursion, there are tickets and passes tailored to suit your needs and make your exploration of this diverse region an unforgettable experience.
