How to get out of the Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Flying into the Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the easiest way to get to Kyoto. It is an easy airport to navigate, but just in case we thought we'd make a picture map. Although we can't take photos through immigration or baggage pickup, once you leave these areas you want to follow the following steps:

 When you walk out you want to look for these blue and white signs (not the ? desk, the signs above them). The middle one shows a picture of a train and says "2F," meaning second floor to the train (and a few other things).

 Walk left until you see the escalator (elevator available behind it). Travel up and out.

 You will see this sign above the door to exit.

This is the train station. If you are paying in cash and don't need assistance make a hard left to the wall of kiosks, otherwise go inside the JR office (with the green sign below). 

This is the green sign (above) you are looking for. From the picture above this one, you can just barely make out a green sign in between the two people walking in white shirts. The people who work in these booths speak enough english to help make sure you get where you are going. In our case, you would tell them you want to go to Kyoto Station. 

 Here are two shots of where the trains go. The blue and orange are two different train lines. Since you purchased a JR ticket (hence the name on the green sign and again on the blue) you want to enter through the blue side. You must have a ticket to enter. If you have large bags they are happy to let you through the handicap entrance, don't be shy!

Once on the platform, you want to take the train to Kyoto Station (it's the end of the line). If you were to stand facing the elevators, it would be the train to your left, but they are all labeled in Japanese and English. If you are unsure, there are people working who can help you.

Once onboard the train, find your seat. The seat pictured above is the "first" class seats. They are very nice, tend to be less packed, and have plenty of room for luggage. Keep in mind they are more expensive.





Train Etiquette:
The trains are very quiet. Please help keep it that way. No one really talks on the trains, out of respect for other passengers. If you do decide to chat, keep your voice low.

Drinking and eating is done at a minimum in all public areas, including the trains. They offer small sized beverages (pictured below) for about 1.50 USD (or 150 Yen).

At this point you might as well kick back and relax. The hard part is over and now you have about 50 minutes to kyoto to collect yourself and get ready for all the people and noises.