Kyoto's subway has only two lines, and the city's temples and gardens are scattered across the hills that ring the center. That makes the bus the most useful — and for many visitors the most confusing — way to get around. This guide covers the routes you'll actually need, the day pass that saves real money, and the mistakes every first-timer makes.
The Bus System at a Glance
The city runs more than 100 bus routes, but visitors mostly need four: the 100 and 206 loop lines that circle the main sights, and the 101 and 205 that connect the station to the northern attractions. Two companies operate the network — City Bus and the private Kyoto Bus — and a single day pass covers both within the flat-fare zone.
The Bus Day Pass
A one-day pass costs ¥700 and covers unlimited rides on City Bus and Kyoto Bus in the central zone. If you take three or more buses in a day, it pays for itself — a single ride is ¥230. Buy it at Kyoto Station, from ticket machines, or directly from the driver, and show it as you exit through the front door.
Three Routes You'll Use Constantly
- Kyoto Station to Gion: bus 206, around 20 minutes.
- Kyoto Station to Kinkaku-ji: bus 101, around 40 minutes.
- Kyoto Station to Arashiyama: bus 28, around 50 minutes.
How to Ride
Board from the rear door and take a numbered ticket if you're paying cash, or tap your IC card on the reader beside the door. When your stop approaches, press the stop button. Exit through the front door, tapping the IC reader by the driver — or showing your day pass — as you get off.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wrong direction. The 206 and 100 run in loops, so check the direction board before boarding. Missing your stop. Announcements are in English but quiet — follow the bus on Google Maps. No exact change. If you pay cash without a ticket, match the fare on the board exactly; the change machine by the driver only breaks coins.
Alternatives to the Bus
Bicycles rent for about ¥800 a day and are the best way to cover the flat eastern districts. The subway's two lines are fast but limited. And the central area between Gion, Shijo, and the station is surprisingly walkable if you plan your day around one neighborhood.
Final Tips
Google Maps shows real-time bus positions in Kyoto and tells you exactly which bus to take. Avoid the rush hour between 7:30 and 9 am, when buses fill with commuters and luggage becomes a problem.
Buses fit neatly into a low-budget plan — see our Kyoto on a budget guide — and a logical route order will save you hours; start with our 3-day itinerary.
