If you’re planning on sightseeing in Osaka’s Minami area (Namba and Shinsaibashi) as your base, you’ll want to travel efficiently. However, Osaka’s transportation network is complicated and may be a little difficult for first-time visitors. So, this time we’ll explain in an easy-to-understand way the best ways to get around depending on your purpose!
1. Go to Kansai International Airport (KIX)
The following are convenient ways to get to Kansai International Airport from the Minami area.
Nankai Electric Railway: Direct from Namba Station! Fastest and most affordable
A fully reserved seat makes for a comfortable journey. Some seats are equipped with power outlets, so you can charge your smartphone or PC before your flight.
- Rapi:t (Limited Express) Approx. 38 minutes / 1,340 yen (reserved seat)
- Airport Express Approx. 44 minutes / 930 yen
- It’s smooth as you can board directly from Namba Station (Nankai)!
Osaka Metro + JR: Recommended for those who prioritize accessibility
The advantage of JR trains is that they have many seats and are relatively comfortable to sit in. There is also space to store large luggage, so it is comfortable.
- Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Tennoji Station (approx. 10 minutes)
- Transfer to JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service (approx. 50 minutes) / 1,060 yen
- If you have a lot of luggage, Nankai Electric Railway may be easier.
▶ Limousine bus: Perfect for those who prefer leisurely travel
The bus to the airport is easy to carry on with your suitcase, and is not affected by the weather, so you can use it with peace of mind.
- Direct bus from Namba (OCAT) (approx. 50 mins) / 1,100 yen
- It’s comfortable because you can sit down!
2. Go to the Umeda/Osaka Station area
The Midosuji Line is the fastest way to get to Umeda/Osaka Station, Osaka’s main terminal!
Osaka Metro Midosuji Line: Simple and speedy!
The Umeda area has many shopping malls and restaurants directly connected to Osaka Station, making it an ideal place for sightseeing.
- “Namba Station” → “Umeda Station” (about 8 minutes) / 240 yen
- Subway directions are available in English, Chinese, and Korean!
JR: For Shinkansen users
There are few transfers, so it’s easy. If you plan on using the Shinkansen, it’s especially convenient to travel by JR.
- From JR Namba Station to Osaka Station on the Yamatoji Line (approximately 15 minutes) / 210 yen
- It’s easy because there are few transfers.
3. Go to Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
If you’re going to USJ, JR is the most convenient way!
JR: This is the royal route!
It gets crowded in the morning, so it’s better to leave early. Plan to arrive before USJ opens, especially on weekends and holidays, to ensure smooth entry.
- “JR Namba Station” → “Nishi-Kujo Station” → “Universal City Station”
- Time required: Approximately 20 minutes / 190 yen
- It gets crowded in the morning so it’s better to leave early.
Osaka Metro + JR: If you are going from Shinsaibashi, click here
Although you will have to transfer, the route is relatively easy to follow.
- Midosuji Line “Shinsaibashi Station” → “Umeda Station” (about 8 minutes)
- From JR Osaka Station to Universal City Station (approx. 12 minutes)
4. Go to Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka Station)
Heading to Kyoto or Tokyo after Osaka? Here’s how to get to Shin-Osaka Station!
Osaka Metro Midosuji Line: The fastest route!
There is also comprehensive guidance to the Shinkansen ticket gates, so you can get there without getting lost.
- “Namba Station” → “Shin-Osaka Station” (about 15 minutes) / 280 yen
- Easy without having to transfer!
Taxi: If you have a lot of luggage
It is available even late at night or early in the morning, making it easy to time your travels to catch the first or last Shinkansen train.
- Approximately 15 to 20 minutes (no traffic jams) / Around 3,000 yen
- Convenient for family trips or when you have a lot of luggage.
summary
When traveling from the Minami area of Osaka, the key is to make good use of trains, buses, and taxis!
- If speed is important to you, choose Osaka Metro and JR!
- If you have a lot of luggage, take a taxi or limousine bus!
- If cost-effectiveness is your priority, choose Nankai Electric Railway and JR!
Use this guide to enjoy a smooth and enjoyable trip to Osaka!
