This isn't some tourist gimmick train that you need to book months in advance or drop hundreds of dollars on. It's a working train that anyone can ride, and it just happens to be gorgeous. If you're already traveling between Kyoto and Nara (which most people visiting Japan do), you might as well do it in style.
What is the Aoniyoshi Limited Express?
Aoniyoshi is part of Japan's network of sightseeing trains. The themed trains are designed to make the journey itself part of the experience, not just the destination. These trains run on regular rail lines but offer upgraded interiors, unique designs, and extra amenities that turn transit into tourism.
The name "Aoniyoshi" is a poetic and historical reference to Nara. It's an ancient and poetic name for the city, dating back to when Nara served as Japan's first permanent capital in the 8th century. The emperor held court here for 84 years, and the train's design pays homage to that era with colours, patterns, and details inspired by the Nara Period.
The result? A train that feels like a moving museum exhibit, but with comfortable seats and snacks.
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The Route: Kyoto to Nara (or Vice Versa)
The Aoniyoshi runs between Kyoto Station and Kintetsu-Nara Station, with stops at a few key stations along the way. The journey takes about 45-50 minutes, which is the same as the regular train, but the experience is completely different.
Route Waypoints:
- Kyoto Station → Starting point, easy to access from anywhere in Kyoto
- Yamato-Saidaiji Station → Transfer point if you're heading to other parts of Nara Prefecture
- Kintetsu-Nara Station → Final stop, closer to Nara Park than JR Nara Station
The train runs multiple times per day in both directions, so you can take it from Kyoto to Nara in the morning, explore Nara, and either take it back in the evening or hop on a regular train if the timing doesn't work out.
What's It Like Inside?
Walking onto the Aoniyoshi feels like stepping into a different era. The whole train is styled after the Tenpyō era with rich purples, temple-inspired woodwork, and little design details that nod to the city’s Buddhist roots. It’s only four cars, but every corner has some kind of historical touch, so the ride itself ends up feeling like a moving museum.
The Seats
The main seating area features plush, comfortable chairs upholstered in green and gold velvet. They're spacious, recline slightly, and are arranged in a 1x1 configuration with plenty of legroom. The seats face forward with large windows, so you get unobstructed views of the countryside as the train glides through rice fields, small towns, and forested hillsides.
It's not just about looking fancy. These seats are genuinely comfortable, and you could fall asleep in them, but you won't want to miss out on any part of this short ride.
The Salon Car
For larger groups or families, there's a salon car with compartment-style seating. These are semi-private areas with cushioned benches arranged around tables, perfect if you're travelling with friends and want to chat, play cards, or just spread out a bit.
The salon car has the same luxe aesthetic as the rest of the train, with rich colours, patterned fabrics, and warm lighting that make everything feel cozy and special.
The Library
Yes, the train has a library. It's a small standing area with bookshelves stocked with books about Nara, Japanese history, and culture. You can browse while standing or grab a book and take it back to your seat.
Is it necessary? No. Is it charming? Absolutely.
The Confectionery Car
This is where things get fun. The Aoniyoshi has a dedicated car that sells themed snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. Everything from beautifully packaged sweets inspired by Nara's history, matcha drinks, local sake, and limited-edition train merchandise.
We grabbed a few snacks and drinks to enjoy during the ride, and it added to the whole experience. The packaging alone is Instagram-worthy, and the snacks were actually good, and not just novelty items.
What to Try:
- Local wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets)
- Matcha drinks
- Nara-themed cookies and crackers
- Limited-edition Aoniyoshi souvenirs (tote bags, postcards, pins)
The confectionery car is also a great photo op. The design is just as beautiful as the rest of the train, and the staff are friendly and happy to chat about the products.
How Much Does It Cost?
Here's the best part: riding the Aoniyoshi costs only about $5 USD per person more than taking a regular train.
Regular Train (Kintetsu Limited Express): Around ¥750 ($5 USD)
Aoniyoshi Limited Express: Around ¥1,500 ($10 USD)
That's an extra ¥750 ($5 USD) for a significantly upgraded experience. For context, a cup of coffee in Kyoto costs around ¥400.
Note: These prices are for reserved seats on the Aoniyoshi. You'll need to book in advance because the train doesn't allow standing passengers, and seats sell out, especially during peak travel seasons.
How to Book Tickets
There is one confusing part for booking tickets for the Aoniyoshi Limited Express. You will need BOTH a basic fare ticket as well as a Limited Express ticket. I recommend you book your Limited Express ticket online in advance and just pay for your basic fare ticket at the station.
Option 1: Book Online (Easiest)
You can book tickets through the Kintetsu Railway website. Tickets become available 1 month before the boarding date.
- Tickets typically go on sale about one month in advance; any further-out dates will be unavailable.
- You'll need to select your date, departure time, and seat preference.
- Payment is usually by credit card.
- You'll receive a confirmation email with a QR code or reservation number.
Book this in advance and then don't forget to get your basic fare ticket at the station. Basic fare tickets don't sell out.
Step 1: Scroll down to click this orange button
Step 2: Select 'start to purchase'
Step 3: Search your route and date
Step 4: Select from available trains
It is important here to select a train that says: 'Ltd.Exp.Aoniyoshi'
Step 5: Select the number of passengers and your seat type
Step 6: Fill out your contact information
Step 7: Fill out your credit card info
Step 8: Agree to the terms and proceed with the booking
Your ticket will be sent to your email. Once you're in Japan, head to the station to pick up your basic fare ticket. If you're starting from Kyoto Station, it can be a bit confusing because the station is massive. Head to one of the manned counters to pick up your basic fare ticket and have them point you in the right direction.
Option 2: Book at the Station (If You're Already in Japan)
If you're already in Kyoto or Osaka, you can book tickets in person at any Kintetsu Railway ticket office. Staff at major stations often speak some English, and there are usually English-language ticket machines available.
- Show up at the ticket counter and say, "Aoniyoshi reservation, please."
- They'll show you available times and seat options
- Pay with cash or card
- You'll get a physical ticket
Pro Tip: If you're travelling during peak seasons (cherry blossom season, fall foliage, Golden Week, or major holidays), book as early as possible. The train sells out fast.
Can You Use a JR Pass?
Unfortunately, no. The Aoniyoshi is operated by Kintetsu Railway, not JR, so the Japan Rail Pass doesn't cover it. You'll need to pay separately, but given that it's only $10, it's still a great deal.
When Does the Aoniyoshi Run?
The Aoniyoshi runs multiple times per day in both directions (Kyoto ↔ Nara), but it doesn't run every hour. It also runs between Osaka and Kyoto multiple times a day. Check the Kintetsu Railway website for the most up-to-date schedule, as times can vary slightly by season.
Typical Schedule:
- No trains run on Thursday
- 3 departures per day from Kyoto to Nara
- 3 departures per day from Nara to Kyoto
- 1 departure per day from Osaka to Kyoto
- 1 departure per day from Kyoto to Osaka
- Journey time: 45-50 minutes
Tips for Riding the Aoniyoshi
Book Early: Seats sell out, especially during peak seasons. Aim to book at least a week in advance, or earlier if you're travelling during the cherry blossom or fall foliage season.
Arrive Early: Get to the station a minimum of 30 minutes prior to departure. The train boards from a specific platform, and you'll want time to find it, take photos, and settle in.
Sit on the Right Side (Kyoto to Nara): For the best countryside views, sit on the right side of the train when travelling from Kyoto to Nara. The left side offers better views on the return journey.
Bring a Camera: The train itself is gorgeous, and the views out the window are lovely. You'll want photos.
Grab a Souvenir Postcard: These can be found on the confectionery car.
Grab Snacks from the Confectionery Car: Even if you're not hungry, it's worth browsing. The snacks make great souvenirs, and the packaging is beautiful.
Don't Stress If You Can't Book It: If tickets are sold out or the timing doesn't work, don't sweat it. The regular Kintetsu Limited Express is still comfortable and gets you there just as fast. The Aoniyoshi is a nice bonus, not a necessity.
Other Sightseeing Trains in Japan
The Aoniyoshi is just one of many themed sightseeing trains operating around Japan. If you enjoy this experience, keep an eye out for others during your trip.
Popular Sightseeing Trains:
- Sagano Scenic Railway (Kyoto): Vintage train through the Arashiyama river valley
- SL Yamaguchi (Western Japan): Steam locomotive through rural Yamaguchi Prefecture
- Shimatetsu (Shimane Prefecture): Retro train along the coast
- La Malle de Bois (Okayama): Stylish train connecting Okayama to Kurashiki and coastal towns
- Toreiyu Tsubasa (Yamagata): Hot spring-themed train with foot baths onboard (yes, really)
Each train has its own theme, route, and vibe, and they're all designed to make the journey part of the adventure.
Final Thoughts
The Aoniyoshi Limited Express is one of those little details that make travelling in Japan feel special. It's not a bucket-list experience you need to plan your entire trip around, but if you're already going between Kyoto and Nara (which most people are), spending an extra $5 to ride a beautiful train instead of a standard one is a no-brainer.
The seats are comfortable, the design is stunning, the snacks are good, and the whole experience feels like a treat without the premium price tag. Plus, it's a conversation starter. When people ask about your trip, you get to casually drop, "Oh yeah, we took a luxury train for $10."
If you're visiting Kyoto and Nara, book a seat. You won't regret it.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Gion
The most atmospheric area in town. Traditional wooden buildings, cobblestone streets, and geishas walking around. It's touristy, yes, but still magical, especially at dusk. Expect to pay a bit more here.
Two top-rated options:
Rinn Gion Hanatouro
Rinn Gion Hanatouro offers modern Japanese-style rooms with an exceptional 9.8 location rating in Gion's south side. Just 1 minute to the renowned Geisha district Hanami-koji Street, 2 minutes to Kaburenjo theatre and Kennin-ji Temple, and 4 minutes to Yasaka Shrine. Select rooms feature balconies with scenic views of local temples and the Higashiyama district. Contemporary Japanese decor throughout creates an authentic and immersive atmosphere.Check Availability
Yoin Hotel Kyoto Gion
Yoin Hotel Kyoto Gion offers spacious air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, work desks, seating areas, coffee machines, refrigerators, and TVs with an exceptional 9.5 location rating. Just 5 minutes from Gion Shijo Station, less than 0.6 miles to Shoren-in Temple, and 1.2 miles to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Features elevator, concierge service, full-day security, and luggage storage. Highly rated for convenient location and generous room size.Check AvailabilityHigashiyama
Quiet and full of charm. Right near lots of Kyoto's best temples, walkable, peaceful, and feels like the Kyoto you see in the movies. Great base if you're here to soak up culture.
There are a few options here for more budget-friendly options, entire guesthouses, and upscale options.
Best For: Temple lovers, people who want charm and convenience.
Kyoto Station
More modern and central. Great transport links if you're planning day trips or want convenience over atmosphere. Less charm, more efficiency.
There are lots of standard Western-style large hotel options here:
APA Hotel
Kyoto Ekimae APA Hotel is just 656 feet from Kyoto Train Station with an 8.7 location rating for couples. Modern rooms feature air-conditioning, LCD TVs, free WiFi, fridges, electric kettles with green tea, private bathrooms with bathtubs, and free video-on-demand. Eight-minute walk to Higashi and Nishi Hongan-ji Temples, 25 minutes to Sanjusangen-do Temple. On-site buffet restaurant, massage services, vending machines, and private parking are available.Check Availability
Miyako City Kintetsu
Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station is located inside Kintetsu Kyoto Station with an excellent 9.5 location rating for couples. Air-conditioned rooms feature neutral colors, flat-screen TVs, kettles, refrigerators, and private bathrooms with baths, slippers, and hairdryers. Twenty minutes to Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji Temples, 15 minutes to Kyoto International Manga Museum, 30 minutes to Yasaka Shrine. Twenty-four-hour front desk with free luggage storage.Check Availability
Hotel Tomiya with M's
HOTEL Tomiya with M's offers 4-star accommodations in central Kyoto with an excellent 9.6 location rating for couples. Soundproofed rooms feature air-conditioning, free WiFi, private bathrooms, work desks, TVs, bathrobes, streaming services, and kitchenettes. Just 2 minutes to TKP Garden City Kyoto and 1,312 feet from Kyoto Station. A 14-minute walk to Sanjusangen-do Temple. Highly rated for public transport access and convenient location.Check AvailabilityRyokan in the North (Kurama or Ohara)
If you want something peaceful and traditional, look for stays near Kurama or Ohara. These areas are quieter and less touristy, but they're not as convenient for exploring the city center.
Best For: People who want a traditional ryokan experience and don't mind being outside the main tourist areas
Japanese Ryokan Seryo
Oyado Seryo offers traditional accommodations with 9.3 location rating for couples. 3 minutes from JR Ohara Bus Station with free shuttle service. Tatami rooms feature futon bedding, garden views, fridges, and tea/coffee facilities. Indoor and outdoor public baths are available. Japanese Kaiseki dinner, Wagyu Shabu-Shabu, or Sukiyaki cuisine served in the dining room. Five-minute walk to Ohara Sanzan-in and Hosei-in Temples, 7 minutes to Jakko-in Temple.Check Availability
Kurama Onsen
Kurama Onsen offers mountain-view family rooms with air-conditioning, balconies, dining tables, work desks, and free toiletries. Excellent 9.1 location rating for couples. Extensive relaxation facilities include hot spring baths, open-air baths, sauna, hot tub, public bath, and terrace. On-site restaurant serves Japanese cuisine for dinner with a bar available. Near Shugakuin Imperial Villa and Kyoto Imperial Palace. Hiking opportunities nearby.Check AvailabilityWhere to Stay in Nara
Nara’s small, walkable, and easy to navigate, so you’ve got lots of options between hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and a few Airbnbs sprinkled around town. The key is staying within walking distance of Nara Park. You don’t need to be right on top of it, but being close cuts out a ton of backtracking and keeps the temples, deer, and food streets all within a few minutes’ stroll.
- Here are some of your best options:
Nara Visitor Centre and Inn
NARA Visitor Center and Inn offers authentic Japanese accommodations with exceptional 9.8 location rating in central Nara. Features traditional tatami rooms with futon bedding, public bath, and samue nightwear. Just 3 minutes to Kofuku-ji Temple, 10 minutes to Todai-ji and Deer Park. Tourist desk provides multilingual support, bike rental, and tour arrangements. Free WiFi, shared kitchen, coin laundry. Outstanding value and staff rated 9.8.Check Availability
Iroha Gran Hotel
Iroha Grand Hotel Kintetsu Nara Ekimae is a modern hotel with 9.2 location rating, just 2 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station in a vibrant shopping district. Spacious rooms feature air-conditioning, comfortable beds, pillow choices, streaming services, and free WiFi. Excellent breakfast buffet with Japanese and European cuisine. On-site restaurants serve lunch and dinner. Complimentary bath bombs and face masks at reception. Five-minute walk to Nara Park.Check Availability
Daiwa Roynet Hotel
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nara Natural Hot Spring offers comfortable modern accommodations with natural onsen facilities, rated 8.7. Located 6 minutes from JR Nara Station with excellent transport access. Rooms feature air-conditioning, bidets, bathrobes, electric kettles, and work desks. Relaxing hot spring baths on-site. Japanese restaurants serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Coin laundry facilities, private parking, free WiFi. Friendly, helpful staff.Check AvailabilityOur Trusted Travel Partners
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