What pass should I buy for Kansai?

Hi there!

As you're not travelling very far, you may want to look into the JR-West Kansai Pass (or WIDE version) for covering these locations as it will be a good match I think. With the WIDE version you can also use the bullet train a little bit within the general area so you can have that experience too.

Probably for the area I recommend visiting Kinosaki Onsen for a hot spring experience. If you wanted to go further (and this would require you to purchase a large rail pass I think), then Hiroshima is within day trip distance of Osaka, but I think as you only have 5 days you'll have more than enough to see and do in the Kansai area if you buy a good guide book. There are also some excellent online resources on the municipal tourism sites for Osaka and Kyoto to help you plan your time there.

Hope this helps!

Hi there,

Thank you for your reply.

But Kansai Area Pass doesnt have any discount or free admission to see major attractions at Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, etc right?

Btw, since I am going to buy this pass when I am arrive at Kansai Airport, the validity will start on that day itself right (i.e 26 Nov 2012)? Meaning that when I want to depart on 30 Nov 2012, I have to purchase another daily ticket from Shin Osaka to airport right? How much does it cost and which train should I take that costless?

Hi there!

I think the Kansai pass does have some discounts on entry to some attractions, buy you'll need to check on that site to find more information.

Validity with rail passes is measured in days not hours so you may need to purchase tickets on the 30th (the 5th day). Here's an itinerary for you to travel back to the airport direct for around ¥3000.

Hope this helps!