Limited Express "KINOSAKI" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR West's Limited Express "KINOSAKI" train, which connects Kyoto Station and Kinosaki Onsen Station. It covers timetables, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This is a major access express train to Kinosaki Onsen, a leading hot spring resort in the Kansai region, and 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, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.
The Limited Express "KINOSAKI" is a JR West train connecting Kyoto Station and Kinosaki Onsen Station via the San'in Main Line (Sagano Line). Operated with 287 and 289 series electric trains, it serves as a major means of access from Kyoto and Osaka to Kinosaki Onsen. All ordinary cars are reserved seating, and there are also Green Cars. With the March 2011 timetable revision, routes such as "Kitakinki" and "Monju" were reorganized, resulting in the current three routes: "KINOSAKI," "Hashidate," and "Maizuru." The train's exterior features a calm color scheme inspired by the natural beauty of the Tanba and Tajima regions. The 287 and 289 series trains are highly versatile vehicles also used for limited express trains in the Hokuriku region, and are renowned for their comfortable ride. The tranquil atmosphere inside the train enhances the mood of travelers looking forward to a relaxing time at the hot springs. Item Content Train Name "KINOSAKI" Operating Company JR West Main Operating Sections Kyoto Station to Kinosaki Onsen Station (via the San'in Main Line) Main Starting and Ending Stations Kyoto Station / Kinosaki Onsen Station Number of Trains Running Several round trips per day Estimated Travel Time Kyoto to Kinosaki Onsen: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes Seating All ordinary cars are reserved seating, Green Car 
Table of Contents
- What is "KINOSAKI"?
- "KINOSAKI" Timetable
- "KINOSAKI" Operating Sections
- Stations Served by "KINOSAKI"
- Fares for "KINOSAKI"
- How to Buy Tickets for "KINOSAKI"
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?
- Seating Information for "KINOSAKI"
- Ekiben and Onboard Dining on "KINOSAKI"
- Points to Note When Riding "KINOSAKI"
- Summary
What is "KINOSAKI"?
"KINOSAKI" is a JR West Limited Express train connecting Kyoto and Kinosaki Onsen. The train's name is derived from its destination, Kinosaki Onsen. Limited Express trains that previously ran between Kyoto and the San'in region under names such as "Asashio" were reorganized and now operate as the current "KINOSAKI." It travels via the Fukuchiyama Line and San'in Main Line, passing through the mountainous areas of the Tanba and Tajima regions to reach Kinosaki Onsen. The Fukuchiyama Line and San'in Main Line are known for offering passengers the opportunity to enjoy the rich natural beauty of the Tanba and Tajima regions from the train windows. The name "KINOSAKI" is one example that symbolizes JR West's policy of reorganizing Limited Express train names to clearly communicate the destination of the journey.
Train Features and Popular Points
The appeal of the "KINOSAKI" train lies in its convenience, offering direct access from Kyoto to Kinosaki Onsen without transfers. Kinosaki Onsen is a historic hot spring resort known for its seven public baths, and this train makes it easy to enjoy a relaxing hot spring trip while strolling around in a yukata (traditional Japanese summer kimono). From the train windows, you can enjoy the mountainous scenery of the Tanba and Tajima regions. Kinosaki Onsen is also known as the setting for Shiga Naoya's novel "At Kinosaki," making it a popular hot spring resort among literature fans. The area around Toyooka Station is known for its efforts to reintroduce wild storks, and you can actually observe them at the Oriental White Stork Park. The willow trees lining the Ohtani River, a symbol of Kinosaki Onsen, are a beloved part of the scenery that further enhances the atmosphere of the hot spring town. Tajima beef is a brand of beef known as the root of Kobe beef, and you can enjoy high-quality Tajima beef dishes around Kinosaki Onsen. At night, the entire hot spring town is enveloped in soft lights, offering a different, more magical atmosphere than during the day.
"KINOSAKI" Timetable
The "KINOSAKI" train operates several round trips per day.
Downbound (towards Kinosaki Onsen) Timetable
| Stations Served | Example 1 | Example 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Dep. | morning | afternoon |
| Fukuchiyama Dep. | ― | ― |
| Kinosaki Onsen Arr. | Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes later | Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes later |
Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Kyoto)
| Stations Served | Example 1 | Example 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Kinosaki Onsen Dep. | morning | afternoon |
| Fukuchiyama Dep. | ― | ― |
| Kyoto Arr. | Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes later | Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes later |
The "KINOSAKI" train operates several round trips a day, mainly around Kyoto Station. Some services may be coupled and uncoupled with the Limited Express "Kounotori" from Osaka at Fukuchiyama Station.
Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions
The "KINOSAKI" train operates daily throughout the year. During winter, due to snowfall typical of the Sea of Japan side, service suspensions and delays are more likely on the San'in Main Line section. The San'in Main Line is susceptible to the climate of the Sea of Japan side, so extra caution is needed during winter.
"KINOSAKI" Operating Sections
Main Sections
- Kyoto Station to Sonobe Station (JR Sagano Line)
- Sonobe Station to Fukuchiyama Station (JR San'in Main Line)
- Fukuchiyama Station to Kinosaki Onsen Station (JR San'in Main Line)
Kinosaki Onsen Station is the gateway to Kinosaki Onsen, a hot spring resort boasting a 1300-year history. As soon as you exit the station, the hot spring town unfolds before you, and you can see tourists in yukata (light cotton kimono) strolling around the seven public baths. Each of Kinosaki Onsen's public baths, such as Ichinoyu, Goshonoyu, and Jizoyu, has its own unique effects and atmosphere, and strolling around in a yukata is a highlight of the trip. Kinosaki Onsen also retains inns with literary connections, such as "Mikiya," where Shiga Naoya is said to have stayed. Fukuchiyama Castle is a historic castle said to have been built by Akechi Mitsuhide, and from the castle tower you can enjoy a panoramic view of Fukuchiyama city. At the Oriental White Stork Park, you can observe both captive and wild storks and learn about environmental conservation efforts. 
Stations Served by "KINOSAKI"
Main Stations Served
- Kyoto Station
- Sonobe Station
- Fukuchiyama Station
- Toyooka Station
- Kinosaki Onsen Station
The stations served may vary depending on the train service.
Fares for "KINOSAKI"
Fares for Representative Sections
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Estimated) | Basic Fare Ticket | Limited Express Surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Station to Kinosaki Onsen Station | Please check the latest fares on Ekitan or the railway company's official website. | ― | ― |
Fares may vary depending on whether it is high or low season.
Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge
The fare for the "KINOSAKI" train is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the Limited Express surcharge. All ordinary cars are reserved seating. The Limited Express surcharge varies depending on the section of travel and purchase conditions. If you use a Green Car, you will need to pay the Green Car surcharge in addition to the regular reserved seat fare. Green Cars offer more spacious seating than regular reserved seats and are suitable for long-distance travel.
Kinosaki Onsen Public Bath Hopping Ticket
Kinosaki Onsen offers a "Yumepa" pass, which allows you to visit seven public baths, and is distributed free of charge to many ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) guests. Since this pass is not included in the train fare, it's best to check separately with your accommodation. Fukuchiyama Station is the closest station to Fukuchiyama Castle, which is associated with Akechi Mitsuhide, and many travelers visit both. Kinosaki Onsen's crab dishes are nationally renowned as a winter delicacy and are served as part of kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals at many ryokans. Kinosaki Onsen also boasts Daishiyama Onsenji Temple, accessible by ropeway, offering panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and the hot spring town from the summit. From the Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway, you can also enjoy spectacular views of the sunset over the Sea of Japan.
How to Buy Tickets for "KINOSAKI"
e5489 (Online Reservation)
JR West's online reservation service "e5489" allows you to purchase ticketless Limited Express tickets using a credit card. Limited Express tickets go on sale one month before the date of travel.
Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi
You can purchase Limited Express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi. Since all ordinary cars are reserved seating, please purchase your reserved seat Limited Express ticket before boarding.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies also offer "KINOSAKI" Limited Express tickets and package deals that include stays at Kinosaki Onsen ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).
How to Buy for International Tourists
"KINOSAKI" is a JR West train, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL PASS. Even when using the pass, if you wish to use a reserved seat, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket. The entire JR West section is covered by the pass.
The types of passes eligible and the applicable conditions may change.
Is a Physical Ticket Required?
If you purchased your ticket through the "e5489" ticketless service, you may be able to board the train by linking it to your smartphone screen or IC card. If you purchased your ticket at a designated seat ticket machine or at a Midori-no-madoguchi, you will need to receive a paper Limited Express ticket before boarding.
Whether or not a ticket is required depends on the type of reservation service.
Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?
For the "KINOSAKI" train service, the basic fare portion can be paid using a transportation IC card within the ICOCA area. However, there are sections outside the ICOCA area, such as Kinosaki Onsen, and the Limited Express surcharge portion cannot be paid using the remaining balance on the IC card; therefore, you must purchase a Limited Express ticket in advance.
On the "KINOSAKI" service route, contactless payment via credit card is not available at ticket gates.
Please note that you cannot ride the Limited Express train using only your IC card. A Limited Express surcharge must be purchased separately. Kinosaki Onsen may be outside the ICOCA area.
Seating Information for "KINOSAKI"
Seat Types
The "KINOSAKI" train is operated using 287 series and 289 series electric trains, and consists of all reserved seats in ordinary cars and Green Cars. Seat Type Content Ordinary Car Reserved Seat Standard 2+2 row seating Unreserved Seating None (All ordinary cars are reserved seating.) Green Car Premium seats, with footrests.
Distinctive Seating
The 287 and 289 series trains are tilting trains, providing a comfortable ride even on the winding sections of the JR San'in Main Line. Some trains have power outlets at every seat, making them suitable for business travelers. The seat tables are large, making it convenient for taking a break or eating while enjoying the scenery. The windows are large, ensuring a clear view of the mountainous landscapes of the Tanba and Tajima regions. Green Cars offer spacious seat pitch and footrests, ensuring a comfortable journey even on long distances. Some seats are positioned to face the Sea of Japan, making it easy to enjoy the scenery regardless of the direction of travel. Green Car seats also feature excellent reclining functions, designed to reduce fatigue even on long journeys.
Large Luggage Storage Area
A large luggage storage area is provided within the train set.
Barrier-Free Facilities
Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the train. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend contacting JR West's ticket office or information center in advance.
Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.
Ekiben and Onboard Dining on "KINOSAKI"
On the "KINOSAKI" train, there is no onboard sales service. If you would like to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at an ekiben shop or store around Kyoto Station. Around Kyoto Station, there are plenty of shops selling Kyoto-style bento boxes and sweets made with matcha green tea. Around Kinosaki Onsen Station, there are plenty of shops selling local sake and souvenirs made with Tajima beef.
Onboard sales are not available.
Points to Note When Riding "KINOSAKI"
The "KINOSAKI" train is an all-reserved seating train. When traveling to Kinosaki Onsen, it's best to choose a train that coincides with your accommodation's check-in time for a smooth journey. During winter, the train is susceptible to snowfall, so it's a good idea to check the operating status in advance. Also, if you plan to visit the Oriental White Stork Park, you should check the bus access from Toyooka Station as well. Since visiting the public baths is mainly done on foot, it's recommended to enjoy your stroll in comfortable yukata and geta sandals. Many inns distribute public bath tickets without additional charge, so it's a good idea to check when you check in.
Since there is no onboard sales service, please prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. Some trains are coupled with or separated from other Limited Express trains at Fukuchiyama Station, so please be careful not to board the wrong car.
Summary
"KINOSAKI" is a JR West Limited Express train connecting Kyoto Station and Kinosaki Onsen Station, and is the main means of access to Kinosaki Onsen, a hot spring resort with a 1300-year history. Ordinary Car reserved seating and Green Cars are available, and the JAPAN RAIL PASS can also be used. This train enhances the anticipation of a hot spring trip while allowing passengers to enjoy the mountain scenery of the Tanba and Tajima regions. It is a particularly popular Limited Express train for travelers who want to enjoy visiting the various public baths unique to Kinosaki Onsen. This Limited Express train comfortably supports your trip to Kinosaki Onsen, one of Kansai's most famous hot spring resorts. It is a popular day trip and overnight travel destination from Kansai, where you can enjoy the rich nature of the Tajima region and the historical hot spring culture all at once. It is a convenient Limited Express train suitable for both day trips from Kansai and overnight hot spring trips. Be sure to experience a special moment strolling through the hot spring town in a yukata.
Enjoy a special trip from Kyoto to the Tajima region with "KINOSAKI," which supports your journey to Kinosaki Onsen, known for its seven public baths.
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