Keihan Bus has announced that it will operate a limited-time sightseeing loop bus, called the “Kiyomizu-dera Line” from July. The aim is to help alleviate congestion on Kyoto City buses caused by overtourism.
A Keihan sightseeing bus at Kyoto Station
The Kiyomizu-dera Line bus starts at Kyoto Station and runs in a clockwise loop connecting Keihan Shichijo Station, Gojo-zaka (the street that leads to Kiyomizu-dera Temple) and Nishi Hongan-ji Temple. For the section between Kyoto Station and Gojo-zaka passengers must make a reservation — which means they’ll have a guaranteed seat. Same-day booking and boarding will be possible if there are enough seats available, but tickets can also be booked online in advance.
A map showing the Kiyomizu-dera Line route
Some services will include a bus guide who will provide commentary on the passing scenery and some package services include a guided tour from Gojo-zaka into Kiyomizu-dera Temple and around the temple.
The Kiyomizu-dera Line service will begin on Wednesday, July 1st and continue until Friday, January 29th, 2027.
The fare for a single ticket is 500 yen for adults and 250 yen for children (elementary school age and younger). For a package ticket that includes the admission fee for Kiyomizu-dera Temple and a guided tour the fare is 1,500 yen for adults and 1,000 yen for children.
This service will not run during the Obon holiday (August 13th and 14th) and the New Year holidays (December 29th to January 4th).
For further information and details of how to book advance tickets please visit the Keihan Bus website.
Article by Michael Lambe. All rights reserved. Images courtesy of Keihan Bus.
