Osaka Airports Transportation Guide – Kansai International & Itami

Last Updated: April 11, 2025

Osaka airports provide crucial and convenient transportation links not only to the vibrant heart of Osaka city but also to numerous other popular destinations in the Kansai region that includes the historic city of Kyoto and the culturally rich Hyogo Prefecture.

For international travelers arriving in the area, Kansai International Airport (KIX) on an artificial island in Osaka Bay serves as the primary gateway that handles a vast array of global flight connections. Meanwhile, the centrally located Itami Airport (ITM), officially known as Osaka International Airport despite its primarily domestic focus in recent years, manages the majority of internal flights within Japan.

Understanding the transportation options available at each of these airports is essential for a smooth and efficient journey. This comprehensive Osaka airports transportation guide aims to equip travelers with the necessary information to navigate between these key transit hubs and their desired destinations, ensuring a seamless start or end to their exploration of the Kansai region.

Whether you’re heading directly into Osaka’s bustling urban center, planning a serene visit to Kyoto’s temples, or exploring the coastal landscapes of Hyogo, familiarity with the airport transfer services will undoubtedly enhance your travel experience. Consider factors such as travel time, cost, and convenience when choosing your preferred mode of transport from either KIX or ITM.

Kansai International

1. Osaka airports transportation guide – Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Located on a man-made island in Osaka Bay, Kansai International Airport is about 32 miles (52 kilometers) southwest of Osaka city center. Luckily, travelers have several options for transportation to Osaka’s most popular districts, like Umeda, Namba and Shin-Osaka Station. Passengers can even board a train directly to Universal Studios Japan, as well as to day trip destinations like Kyoto, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.

Check In to a hotel or apartment near Kansai International Airport

The Premium Hotel in Rinku

HATAGO INN Kansai Airport

Kansai Airport Washington Hotel

2. Osaka airports transportation guide – Itami Airport (ITM) (Osaka International Airport)

Most of Japan’s domestic flights land at Itami Airport (ITM). Located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Osaka city center, the airport once served as the city’s international airport, which is why some locals refer to it still as Osaka International Airport. The train at Osaka Airport Station takes passengers to Hotarugaike Station, where travelers can buy tickets to Umeda Station or Kyoto. The journey to Umeda takes about 20 minutes, and the ride to Kyoto is about 45 minutes. Limousine buses take passengers from Itami Airport to Umeda Station, as well as to Shin-Osaka Station, the OCAT building in Namba and Universal Studios Japan.

Check In to a hotel or apartment near Itami Airport

REFTEL Osaka

Hotel A.P.

Toyoko Inn Osaka Itami Airport

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