"Aoniyoshi" Train Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Kintetsu Railway's (Kinki Nippon Railway) sightseeing limited express train "Aoniyoshi," which connects Osaka Namba Station, Kyoto Station, and Kintetsu Nara Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, whether physical tickets are required, and information on IC card and credit card contactless payment options. Since all seats are reserved, advance reservations are essential. This article summarizes key points to check before your trip.
*The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, sales conditions, and purchase methods may change. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before use.
"Aoniyoshi" is a Kintetsu sightseeing limited express train that connects the three cities of Osaka Namba, Kyoto, and Kintetsu Nara without transfers. "Aoniyoshi" is a poetic epithet for Nara, and is derived from a word that describes the splendor of Heijo-kyo (the ancient capital). It is operated with the 19200 series train (4-car formation) which began operation in April 2022, and is characterized by its purple body with a motif of Tenpyo-era patterns. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required to board. The number of seats inside the train has been reduced to 84 seats, which is about one-third of that of a normal 4-car limited express train, and a thorough effort has been made to create a spacious and comfortable environment.

What is "Aoniyoshi"?

"Aoniyoshi" is a Kintetsu sightseeing limited express train that connects the three cities of Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto without transfers, and is inspired by the ancient capital of Nara. It was manufactured by modifying the 12200 series (Snack Car) limited express train that was retired in 2021, and the interior and exterior of the train, including the ceiling and lighting, are adorned with Tenpyo-era patterns inspired by the treasures of the Shosoin. Based on the concept of "feeling like you are traveling to the ancient capital of Nara from the moment you board," the train is popular for its calm purple exterior and high-quality interior. The train's exterior is fitted with an emblem featuring the auspicious "flower-eating bird" pattern, which is known as a lucky motif used in the Shosoin treasures and crafts.

Train features and popular points

The "Aoniyoshi" train offers only two types of seating: Twin Seats for two people and Salon Seats for three to four people. The Twin Seats come in two types: facing seats and seats slightly facing the window, and each seat is equipped with a table and a power outlet. Car 2 features a sales counter inspired by the Azekura-zukuri style of architecture and a library space where passengers can freely browse books about the area along the route, with various features designed to enhance the enjoyment of the journey itself. All seats are equipped with power outlets, and the interior is decorated with calming lighting and wood-grain finishes, allowing passengers to enjoy a high-quality atmosphere even on short journeys.

"Aoniyoshi" Train Timetable

*Please check the departure station and destination before boarding, as the route varies depending on the service.

Downbound (towards Kyoto/Kintetsu Nara) timetable

*This is a representative example.

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Osaka Namba)

*This is a representative example.

The "Aoniyoshi" train operates one round trip per day between Osaka Namba Station and Kyoto Station (via Kintetsu Nara Station), and two round trips per day between Kintetsu Nara Station and Kyoto Station (a total of four round trips per day between Kintetsu Nara and Kyoto). A distinctive feature of the service between Osaka Namba Station and Kyoto Station is that it switches back at Kintetsu Nara Station, changing its direction of travel.

Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.

The "Aoniyoshi" train operates six days a week, excluding Thursdays. However, it may run on some days that are normally non-operating days, such as Thursdays that fall on public holidays. You can check the operating days on the Kintetsu official website's operating calendar.

Operating Sections of the "Aoniyoshi"

Main sections

• Osaka Namba Station ~ Kintetsu Nara Station ~ Kyoto Station
• Kintetsu Nara Station to Kyoto Station

Kintetsu Nara Station is the closest station to Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, and Nara Park, while Kyoto Station is a base for sightseeing in Kyoto, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Osaka Namba Station is directly connected to the bustling Minami district of Osaka, making this a highly convenient train line that allows you to travel between the three cities in one go. Gakuenmae Station and Ikoma Station along the line are also areas known as commuter towns for Osaka and Nara.

Stations Served by the "Aoniyoshi"

Main stops

• Osaka Namba Station
• Osaka Uehonmachi Station
• Tsuruhashi Station
• Ikoma Station
• Gakuenmae Station
• Kintetsu Nara Station
• Yamato-Saidaiji Station
• Kintetsu Tambabashi Station
• Kyoto Station

*The stops may vary depending on the service.

Fares for the "Aoniyoshi"

Representative section fare

*At the start of service (April 2022), the estimated fares were 1,960 yen total for Osaka Namba to Kyoto, 1,300 yen total for Osaka Namba to Kintetsu Nara, and 1,370 yen total for Kintetsu Nara to Kyoto. However, these fares may have changed due to subsequent fare revisions. The special car surcharge is a flat rate of 210 yen for all sections.

• Limited Express Fare, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Ticket

The fare for the "Aoniyoshi" train is the sum of three components: the basic fare to your destination, the limited express surcharge, and the special car surcharge. The special car surcharge is 210 yen, and is quoted as the price per person when two people use the Twin Seats or three to four people use the Salon Seats. Since all seats on the "Aoniyoshi" are reserved, there is no unreserved seat fare. If one person uses a Twin Seat, a limited express ticket and a special car surcharge for a child are required in addition to their own limited express ticket and special car surcharge.

Points to note when using the service alone

The "Aoniyoshi" train consists only of Twin Seats (for 2 people) and Salon Seats (for 3-4 people). If traveling alone, you will need to reserve a Twin Seat for one person and purchase an additional limited express ticket and special car ticket at the child fare for the second person. Please note that solo travelers will be slightly more expensive than usual.

How to Buy Tickets for the "Aoniyoshi"

Kintetsu Railway Internet Reservation and Ticketing Service

By registering as a member of Kintetsu Railway's internet reservation and ticketing service, you can reserve seats from your smartphone or computer. Payment is made by credit card, and you can choose between a ticketless service that does not require picking up tickets at the station, or a method where you make a provisional reservation and pay and pick up your tickets at the station. Limited express tickets go on sale from 10:30 a.m. one month before the date of travel. By registering as a member, you will be awarded points based on the purchase amount, which can be used for future limited express ticket purchases.

 

 

Kintetsu Station Ticket Office (Limited Express Ticket Counter)

You can also purchase limited express tickets at the ticket offices of major Kintetsu stations starting at 10:30 a.m. one month before your travel date. Credit card payments are accepted at the counters. The "Aoniyoshi" train is very popular, and seats tend to fill up quickly after tickets go on sale, so we recommend booking as soon as you decide on your travel date.

Limited express ticket vending machine

You can purchase limited express tickets using credit cards or transportation IC cards at the automatic ticket vending machines installed at stations. However, seats for the "Aoniyoshi" train may not be available at these machines, so we recommend purchasing them in advance at a ticket office or through online reservation.

How to buy for foreign tourists

The "Aoniyoshi" train is operated by Kintetsu (a private railway company), so the JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used. There is a KINTETSU RAIL PASS for foreign tourists, but this pass allows unlimited rides on trains below the rapid express level, and does not cover limited express trains. Even if you have a KINTETSU RAIL PASS, you will need to purchase a separate limited express ticket (limited express surcharge and special car surcharge) in addition to your basic fare ticket to ride the "Aoniyoshi".

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

If you complete the credit card payment process through the online reservation and purchase service, you can board the train simply by showing your smartphone screen as it is a ticketless service. If you purchase your ticket at a ticket office or use the provisional reservation service, you will need to receive a paper limited express ticket before boarding.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

When riding the "Aoniyoshi" train, you will need separate tickets for the basic fare and the limited express surcharge (limited express surcharge and special car surcharge). Nationwide mutually usable transportation IC cards such as ICOCA, Suica, and PASMO can be used as the basic fare on all Kintetsu lines. However, the limited express surcharge cannot be paid using the balance on the IC card and must be purchased separately in advance. If you are boarding or alighting at a station without a ticket gate, you will need to exchange your ticket for a multi-ride ticket or a regular ticket at an automatic ticket vending machine before boarding.

Kintetsu offers contactless payment services using credit cards and other methods on all Kintetsu train lines. However, this service is not available on the Ikoma Cable Car and the Katsuragi Mountain Ropeway.

Only the basic fare portion of the ticket can be paid for using contactless payment. If you are riding a limited express train, you will need to purchase a limited express ticket separately.

The types of cards accepted and the areas where they can be used may change.

Seating Information for the "Aoniyoshi"

Seat Types (All seats are reserved)

Distinctive seating

The Twin Seats come in two configurations: one where the seats face each other, and another where the seats are slightly facing the window, allowing passengers to better enjoy the scenery outside the window. In addition to the Salon Seats in Car 2, Car 2 also features a sales counter designed to resemble a traditional Japanese storehouse and a library space (with sofa seating) where passengers can freely browse books about the areas along the route. The Salon Seats are adjacent to the sales counter in Car 2, making it convenient to enjoy purchased drinks and snacks right at your seat.

Large luggage storage area

Detailed information regarding the designated space for large luggage is limited. If you are bringing a large suitcase, please be careful not to obstruct the space around your seat or the aisle, and check with Kintetsu in advance if necessary.

Barrier-free facilities

Details regarding wheelchair-accessible seating and boarding/alighting assistance vary depending on the date and train. If you will be using a wheelchair, it is recommended that you consult with the Kintetsu Railway Telephone Center or station staff in advance.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and Onboard Dining on the "Aoniyoshi" Train

Car 2 of the "Aoniyoshi" train features a sales counter designed to resemble a traditional Japanese storehouse, where you can purchase sweets made with Nara Prefecture products, original goods exclusive to the train, and craft beer. Since some train journeys are relatively short, it's recommended to line up at the counter early after departure if you want to take advantage of the onboard sales. In addition to three types of original beer from craft breweries based in Nara, commemorative goods exclusive to the train are also available for purchase.

Points to Note When Riding the "Aoniyoshi" Train

Since all seats on the "Aoniyoshi" train are reserved, if you know your travel date, we recommend making your reservation as soon as it opens (10:30 AM one month before your travel date). As a general rule, the train does not operate on Thursdays, so please check the operating calendar in advance. Also, if you are taking the Osaka Namba to Kyoto route, where the direction of travel changes at Kintetsu Nara Station, please keep in mind that the direction of your seat may change accordingly.

Since the only seating options are Twin Seats (for 2 people) and Salon Seats (for 3-4 people), you need to pay attention to the seat reservation method if you are traveling alone.

Summary

The "Aoniyoshi" is a Kintetsu sightseeing limited express train that connects the three cities of Osaka Namba Station, Kintetsu Nara Station, and Kyoto Station without transfers. It operates six services per day, six days a week except Thursdays. All seats are reserved, so both a basic fare ticket and a limited express ticket (limited express surcharge and special car surcharge) are required. The special car surcharge is a reasonable 210 yen, and the train offers a luxurious interior adorned with Tenpyo-era patterns, allowing passengers to enjoy the feeling of traveling through the ancient capital of Nara. The JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used, and even if you have a KINTETSU RAIL PASS, you will need to purchase a limited express ticket separately. With a limited number of seats to create a spacious environment, it provides a calm and relaxing travel experience suitable for seasoned adult travelers.

Enjoy your journey on the "Aoniyoshi" train, which connects Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto without any transfers.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.