If you think you need to pay for an expensive Shinkansen ticket to experience luxury travel in Japan, think again! There is a “secret” train running between Osaka and Kyoto that looks like a moving Japanese temple—and it costs exactly 0 yen extra.
It’s called the Kyo-train GARAKU, operated by Hankyu Railway. As a local student living in the Kansai area, this is my #1 recommendation for anyone traveling on a budget who still wants a “First Class” experience.
🏯 What is Kyo-train GARAKU?
The word “Garaku” (雅楽) refers to traditional Japanese court music, and the train lives up to its name. Each of the six carriages is designed with a different seasonal theme,
Featuring:
- Real Tatami-style seating
- Miniature Japanese “Tsubo-niwa” gardens inside the train
- Circular windows inspired by Kyoto’s ancient temples
- Traditional patterns and high-end wooden interiors
The best part? No reservation is required. You can hop on with just a standard commute ticket or your IC card (Suica/Pasmo/ICOCA).
📅 Essential Info: When and How Much?
Don’t make the mistake of showing up on a Tuesday! Here are the “hard facts” you need to know:
| Feature | Details |
| Days of Operation | Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays ONLY |
| Route | Osaka Umeda ↔ Kyoto Kawaramachi |
| Additional Fee | ￥0 (Just the standard fare of ￥410) |
| Reservations | Not possible (First-come, first-served) |
💡 Local Student Hacks to Get the Best Seat
Since you can’t book a seat, it can get crowded. Here is how I always secure the best spot:
- Start from Osaka Umeda: It’s the first station. If you board at a middle station, you’ll likely be standing.
- The 20-Minute Rule: Arrive at the platform at least 15-20 minutes before departure.
- Car 2 & 5 are the best: They feature small gardens and the most “Zen” atmosphere.
- Use the Hankyu Tourist Pass: If you plan to visit multiple spots in Kyoto and Osaka, buying the Hankyu Tourist Pass on Klook is the cheapest way to travel
😴 GARAKU vs. PRiVACE: Which one is for you?
Hankyu Railway now offers two amazing options.
Here is how to choose:
- Choose GARAKU if: You are on a budget, it’s the weekend, and you want to take beautiful photos of the traditional interior.
- Choose PRiVACE if: You are tired after a long day of walking, you want a guaranteed seat, and you need a quiet space to sleep like a baby for just 500 yen extra.
Check out my full review of the PRiVACE luxury seats here to see why I sometimes prefer paying the 500 yen to catch some sleep!
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