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Airport → your hotel
Kansai International Airport (KIX) is about 50 km from Osaka. The Nankai line reaches Namba in 45 min (¥970; the Rapi:t limited express is ¥1,520, ~37 min). For Kyoto, the JR Haruka express runs directly in ~70–80 min (~¥3,000). A taxi into Osaka is ¥15,000–20,000. Add your hotel on the Day-by-Day tab for an exact distance and fare. Verified Jul 2026.
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Emergencies
110 police, 119 fire and ambulance. Japan is exceptionally safe; the bigger risk is a medical bill, so travel insurance is not optional.
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Visa for Indians
Indian passport holders need a Japan visa — there is no visa-on-arrival. Since September 2025 the JAPAN eVISA route is open to Indian residents, but applications must go through a MOFA-accredited agency or VFS rather than the MOFA portal directly. Embassy fee ₹1,300 single entry plus ₹1,500-2,200 service charge; decision usually in 3-5 working days. Apply 4-8 weeks ahead for cherry blossom season.
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SIM & data
Unlock the full insider guidance for this — the practical details, best timing, typical costs and local know-how that make this part of your trip smoother and better value. We cover exactly what to book ahead, what to skip, and the money-saving tricks most visitors miss. Included with the complete Osaka & Kyoto itinerary.
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Best time to visit
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Getting around
Unlock the full insider guidance for this — the practical details, best timing, typical costs and local know-how that make this part of your trip smoother and better value. We cover exactly what to book ahead, what to skip, and the money-saving tricks most visitors miss. Included with the complete Osaka & Kyoto itinerary.
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Cash still matters
Unlock the full insider guidance for this — the practical details, best timing, typical costs and local know-how that make this part of your trip smoother and better value. We cover exactly what to book ahead, what to skip, and the money-saving tricks most visitors miss. Included with the complete Osaka & Kyoto itinerary.
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Food to try
Unlock the full insider guidance for this — the practical details, best timing, typical costs and local know-how that make this part of your trip smoother and better value. We cover exactly what to book ahead, what to skip, and the money-saving tricks most visitors miss. Included with the complete Osaka & Kyoto itinerary.
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Etiquette that matters
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Beat the Kyoto crowds
Unlock the full insider guidance for this — the practical details, best timing, typical costs and local know-how that make this part of your trip smoother and better value. We cover exactly what to book ahead, what to skip, and the money-saving tricks most visitors miss. Included with the complete Osaka & Kyoto itinerary.