Kyoto OKOSHI Bus | Direct Sightseeing Tickets for Kiyomizu-dera Route
- Travel comfortably from Kyoto Station directly to Kiyomizu-dera (Gojo-zaka) by sightseeing bus, avoiding the crowds and queues of regular buses.
- Offers single-ride tickets as well as in-depth experience packages including a tour guide, multilingual audio guide, and Kiyomizu-dera admission fees.
- For guided packages, scan the QR code on the bus to listen to the multilingual audio guide, and enjoy a guided walk to the Kiyomizu Stage after getting off.
- The boarding point is at JR Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit (directly in front of Isetan Department Store). Book via KKday now!
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Temples & shrines, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
The Kyoto Sightseeing 'OKOSHI' Bus, operated by Keihan Bus, is your best choice.
Operating on designated weekdays, it departs from Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit with guaranteed seating, ensuring a comfortable journey to Gojo-zaka. Packages are divided into a '1-Ride Bus Ticket' for flexible travel, and an upgraded '1-Ride Bus Ticket with Sightseeing Guide'—the latter includes a multilingual audio guide on the bus, Kiyomizu-dera admission, and a guided walk to the Kiyomizu Stage by a bus guide, followed by free time to explore at your own pace.
【Sightseeing Bus 1-Ride One-Way Ticket Package】
Kyoto Station ('OKOSHI' Bus Boarding Point) → Shichijo Keihan-mae → Gojo-zaka (get off) → Gojo-zaka → Gojo Keihan → Nishi Hongan-ji Temple → Kyoto Station ('OKOSHI' Bus Boarding Point) (get off)
※You may choose any one segment from the route above for a one-way trip.
※You may also choose not to get off at Gojo-zaka and continue to Nishi Hongan-ji Temple or Kyoto Station.
Bus Operator: Keihan Bus Co., Ltd.
【Sightseeing Guide + Kiyomizu-dera Admission + 1-Ride Bus Ticket Package】
Meet at JR Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit 'OKOSHI' Bus (Kyoto Regular Sightseeing Bus) Boarding Point
※Please present your mobile electronic or printed voucher when boarding. ※Please note that those who cannot present a voucher will not be able to board.Depart from Kyoto Station ('OKOSHI' Bus Boarding Point) ※Bus seating is unreserved.
※The guide provides multilingual services. Please scan the QR code provided on the bus and select your preferred language.Get off at Gojo-zaka. After getting off, the bus guide will lead you to the Kiyomizu Stage at Kiyomizu-dera.
Admission to Kiyomizu-dera is included in the ticket price. Please note that if you do not enter with the bus guide, you will need to pay for admission to Kiyomizu-dera separately.
※After the tour ends, the group will disperse locally. You are free to explore afterwards.
Kyoto Sightseeing OKOSHI Bus (Kiyomizu-dera Route) Timetable
Purchase Notice
- The 'OKOSHI' Bus Kiyomizu-dera route operates on a fixed-seat basis. Please be aware that if the bus is full, you will not be able to board.
- To change your travel date or schedule, please cancel your existing order and rebook.
- Please use luggage storage services or coin lockers for large luggage to help reduce congestion at tourist spots.
- You can check the availability of coin lockers at Kyoto Station by clicking this link.
Reminders
Please be sure to present your electronic or printed voucher at the boarding point before departure. Please note that you will not be able to board if you cannot present your voucher.
Please arrive at the bus stop before the departure time. Please check the location of the bus stop in advance and make your own way there. The bus will depart on time and will not wait for late arrivals.
Please note that if you do not contact us and fail to participate in the tour on the day of the event, it will be considered a voluntary cancellation and no refund will be provided.
Please remain seated and fasten your seatbelt during the ride.
Please understand that the operating company may decide to suspend or cancel the tour in the event of strong winds, rain, or other weather conditions that affect safe operations.
Voucher validity: Valid only for the specific schedule selected at the time of booking.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 1 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQ
1. What is the best time to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple?
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is renowned for its beauty throughout the four seasons. The scenery is particularly stunning during cherry blossom season in spring (late March to mid-April) and when the autumn leaves turn red (mid-November to early December), though these times are also the most crowded. To avoid the crowds, it's recommended to visit early in the morning right when it opens (usually 6 AM) or about an hour before closing in the evening for a more serene experience, while still enjoying the changing daytime and nighttime views from the Kiyomizu Stage.
2. What are the must-see attractions and cultural background of Kiyomizu-dera Temple?
The most famous feature of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is the 'Kiyomizu Stage,' known for its unique wooden structure suspended from the cliff face, built entirely without nails. Additionally, the 'Otowa Waterfall' is believed to bestow benefits for health, academics, and relationships, making it a must-visit spot for tourists. The 'Jishu Shrine' within the temple grounds is dedicated to the god of love and matchmaking. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kiyomizu-dera embodies a long history of Buddhism and traditional Japanese architecture. Its magnificent scenery and profound cultural heritage are deeply worth exploring.
3. What are some representative souvenirs or amulets recommended when visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple?
Around Kiyomizu-dera Temple, you can find many unique souvenirs and amulets. Common recommendations include amulets for academic success, good health, and love, with the love amulets from Jishu Shrine being particularly popular. In addition, Kyoto's characteristic folding fans, Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, Kyoto pickles, and matcha-flavored sweets are representative local gifts that can be purchased in the surrounding shopping streets like Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka.
4. Besides city buses, what other sightseeing bus routes are available from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-dera Temple?
In addition to Kyoto's regular city buses, you can consider taking sightseeing buses designed for tourists. For example, the OKOSHI sightseeing bus in Kyoto offers a direct service from the Karasuma Exit of JR Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-dera (Gojo-zaka). Its advantages include guaranteed seating, avoiding the crowds and queues of regular buses, and providing a comfortable and convenient way to reach your destination, especially suitable for travelers with luggage or families.
5. What are the common payment methods for using public buses in Kyoto?
When taking public buses in Kyoto, the most common payment methods are cash (please have exact change or exchange it on the bus) or using transportation IC cards like Suica, ICOCA (a Kansai region card), or Pasmo, which are usable nationwide in Japan. Simply tap the card to pay. Some buses may also support credit cards or mobile payments, but IC cards and cash are the most prevalent.
6. What are the convenient ticketing options for purchasing OKOSHI sightseeing bus tickets for the Kiyomizu-dera route?
You can easily book your OKOSHI sightseeing bus tickets for the Kiyomizu-dera route through KKday. On the KKday platform, you can choose a single ride ticket for pure transportation, or upgrade to a more in-depth experience package that includes a guided tour, multilingual audio commentary, and admission to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Booking through KKday not only guarantees a seat but also saves you the hassle of purchasing tickets on-site, offering a convenient and diverse booking service.
7. What unique services are offered when taking the OKOSHI sightseeing bus to Kiyomizu-dera Temple?
When taking the OKOSHI sightseeing bus to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, you can enjoy several unique services. Firstly, the bus travels directly from Kyoto Station's Karasuma Exit to Gojo-zaka, offering a comfortable ride with guaranteed seating, eliminating the need for transfers or queuing. If you opt for a guided tour package, you can scan a mobile code on the bus to access multilingual audio commentary, and upon arrival, a guide will lead you to the Kiyomizu Stage, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of Kiyomizu-dera's history, culture, and highlights.
8. What are some recommended unique attractions or local food options around Kiyomizu-dera Temple?
The area around Kiyomizu-dera Temple boasts a rich array of unique attractions and culinary delights. Strolling along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka offers a taste of Kyoto's historic streetscape, with numerous shops selling traditional Kyoto crafts, sweets, and teas lining the paths. Additionally, nearby historical structures like the Yasaka Pagoda and Kodai-ji Temple are worth visiting. For food, you can savor Yudofu (boiled tofu), matcha desserts, Kyoto cuisine (Kyo-ryori), and various Japanese snacks.
