How Indian Tourists Can Book a Ride on Kyo-Train Garaku: Japan's Stunning Sightseeing Experience

Planning a trip to Japan from India? With sakura season approaching, there’s no better time to explore this enchanting destination. Did you know that Japan’s trains are not just fast but also incredibly scenic? One hidden gem is the Kyo-train Garaku, running between Kyoto and Osaka.

Here’s why you should check it out:

• It offers stunning views of Japan’s vibrant landscapes.

• The journey costs only approx ₹220 (410 JPY) one way (budget-friendly for Indian travelers)

• Trains in Japan are known for their punctuality and comfort, making your trip stress-free.

Imagine traveling between two of Japan’s most iconic cities, Kyoto’s timeless charm and Osaka’s modern energy, for less than the cost of a movie ticket in India. Wouldn’t you love to add this experience to your itinerary? Japan’s train network also makes it easy to explore nearby spots like Nara and Kobe.

When you plan your Japan trip, make sure to include the Kyo-train Garaku in your schedule. It's a ride worth taking for every Indian tourists going to Japan.

Also read: Travel Guide to Japan from India

What is the Kyo-train Garaku?

Image credit: Kyo-Train Garaku Official Faceebook Page

In short, the Kyo-train Garaku is a sightseeing limited express train operated by Hanku Railways along the Hankyu Kyoto Line. Launched in 2019, the train runs between Osaka-umeda Station and Kyoto-kawaramachi Station. 

It departs every two hours on weekends and public holidays, stopping off at the following stations apart from the above two terminal stations mentioned: 

1. Karasuma Station

2. Katsura Station

3. Awaji Station

4. Juso Station

You can check out a detailed timetable of the departure and arrival times below: 

What is special about the train that every Indian tourist should add it to their itinerary?

Image credit: Kyo-Train Garaku Official Facebook Page

Apart from being an affordable option for those travelling between Osaka and Kyoto, Kyo-train Garaku doubles up as an experience in and of itself. Similar to India's special sightseeing trains in India (like vistadome) each carriage on this sightseeing train is artistically designed with a Japanese flair to showcase the beauty of Kyoto. 

Image credit: Kyo-Train Garaku Official Facebook Page

From the moment you step on, you’ll notice that each car is decorated with stunning and unique seasonal motifs that exude the charming atmosphere of Kyoto. Car 1 features an autumn motif, with maple leaves being the main design elements, and with tatami-style boxed seating (tatami mats are affixed to the backrest for comfort). Car 2, on the other hand, showcases winter, featuring a dry landscape garden that makes you forget that you’re on a train!

If you’re travelling to Japan during spring, then you will love Car 3, which features a spring theme. Apart from cherry blossom patterns, it has window-facing seats, allowing you to take in the gorgeous spring scenery and cherry blossom trees as you travel through the Kyoto-Osaka landscape. Car 4 is designed like a Kyoto wooden townhouse in summer, complete with sliding shoji doors, while Car 5 contains an authentic Japanese garden (tsuboniwa). Car 6 brings it full circle with a spring motif. 

Image credit: Kyo-Train Garaku Official Facebook Page

Also read: 15 Amazing Things That Are Best Experienced in Japan

Kyo-train Garaku price and how to book

Amazingly, a one-way ticket on the Kyo-train Garaku from Kyoto to Osaka costs only 410JPY (Rs.210)! Which is less than cost of 10km long cab charges in India. There is no need to book in advance and no additional charges or express fees. You just need to pay the regular fare in Japan to board the train. The fare is covered by the Hankyu Tourist Pass and Kansai Thru Pass, and you may also use the Icoca Card. 

There are also no reserved seats, so you can freely move about like on regular trains. 

Take note that passengers travelling on the train may bring up to two pieces of luggage free of charge, provided that they are not oversized luggage and weigh less than 30kg. 

Get ready to explore Kyoto and Osaka!

And that’s all you need to know about the Kyo-train Garaku! While most travelers use it to hop between Kyoto and Osaka, the journey itself is a highlight. Each stop along the way reveals hidden treasures waiting to be explored.

If you’re visiting Japan from India, this train adds a unique touch to your itinerary. It’s affordable, scenic, and convenient; a perfect choice for Indian tourists looking to make the most of their time and budget.

Why not plan your trip to include this experience? Whether you’re soaking in Kyoto’s rich heritage or Osaka’s vibrant city life, the Kyo-train Garaku is a journey you won’t regret taking.