Hankyu Railway operates primarily around three major lines—Kobe Line, Takarazuka Line, and Kyoto Line—with its terminal station located at Osaka-Umeda. The Kyoto Line is especially popular thanks to the scenic “Kyo-Train Garaku” and special collaboration trains featuring beloved characters. But did you know there’s also a reserved seat service available exclusively on the Kyoto Line?

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about “PRiVACE,” Hankyu Railway’s reserved seat service—from how to purchase tickets and board the train to its key features and onboard etiquette.

Hankyu Railway’s reserved seat service PRiVACE is available between Osaka-Umeda Station and Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station, with 1 to 4 trains running per hour on weekdays and 1 to 5 on weekends and holidays.

To use PRiVACE, you’ll need to pay the standard fare plus a seat reservation fee of 500 yen (tax included).

It’s recommended to reserve your PRiVACE seat in advance via the official reservation website 　(no membership registration required). Reservations open 14 days before the travel date, and the process—reservation and payment—takes about 5 minutes. Up to 4 seats can be reserved at once.

Each train has 40 reserved seats (1 car), and some dates or time slots may sell out, so early booking is advised.

Please note: The PRiVACE reservation fee does not include regular train fare. You’ll need to pay the base fare separately using an IC card, contactless credit card, or ticket.

If you’re planning to travel extensively around Osaka, Kyoto, or even to places like Arashiyama or Kobe, consider getting a Hankyu 1day Pass 　ticket for added convenience and savings.

If you want to check the operation schedule or seat availability, the official reservation website　is the most convenient tool.

If you wish to purchase a PRiVACE ticket on the day of travel, simply speak to the attendant on board the PRiVACE car.

For same-day purchases, you can pay by cash or IC cards (such as ICOCA or PiTaPa).

Please note that tickets cannot be purchased from station staff or at ticket vending machines. Also, make sure to board the PRiVACE car directly if you intend to purchase your ticket on the day.

There is no dedicated platform for PRiVACE. At Osaka-Umeda Station, board from the Kyoto Line platform, specifically Car No. 4, Door No. 2 on an 8-car train. Look for PRiVACE boarding markers on the platform floor.

If you’ve made a reservation in advance, no physical ticket is required at boarding. So just arrive at the platform before departure time, board the correct train at your reserved time, and find your seat as indicated in your booking.

“PRiVACE” has a shared luggage area where you can place suitcases or strollers.

You may bring up to two items on board for free, provided that the length of any one side does not exceed 2 meters, the total of all three dimensions does not exceed 2.5 meters, and the weight of each item is within 30 kilograms.

Notes: *The luggage area is for the shared use of PRiVACE passengers. Please be considerate and share the space.

*Please ensure that your luggage does not protrude into the aisle.

*Passengers are responsible for managing their own luggage.

The PRiVACE seating layout is a comfortable 3-seat arrangement: 2 seats on one side and 1 seat on the other (“2+1” configuration). Compared to regular cars, each seat offers wider cushions and more legroom, making the approximately 43-minute ride between Osaka and Kyoto a relaxing experience — perfect for resting after a day of sightseeing.

Even if you board from Juso or Awaji stations, reserving PRiVACE in advance ensures a smooth and comfortable journey to Kyoto.

Each row has its own dedicated window, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the Hankyu Kyoto Line as you travel.

PRiVACE is equipped with a variety of convenient features not found in standard cars. Here are three facilities that are especially useful during travel.

1. Power Outlet
Each seat is equipped with a power outlet, making it convenient for charging smartphones or laptops.

2. Wi-Fi
You can use HH cross Wi-Fi and HANKYU TRAIN FREE Wi-Fi. The HANKYU TRAIN FREE Wi-Fi requires no registration and can be used with just an email address.

3. Table
Ideal for those who wish to work on a laptop while traveling.

This doesn’t apply only to “PRiVACE,” but there are a few manners to keep in mind when riding trains in Japan. Knowing them in advance will help ensure a comfortable ride.

● Take your trash with you
There are no trash bins on the train, so please take your garbage with you.

● Don’t speak loudly
On public transportation in Japan, it is common courtesy to keep your voice down.

In particular, “PRiVACE” is designed around the concept of turning everyday “travel time” into “personal time” spent in a private space. Rather than just a means of getting from one place to another, it aims to provide a space where you can relax, read, or prepare for work in peace. Please set your phone to silent mode, refrain from talking on the phone, and enjoy a quiet and comfortable ride.

Why not enjoy a comfortable journey between Osaka and Kyoto aboard “PRiVACE”?

You can make a reservation easily through the official booking website.

In addition to “PRiVACE,” there are many other recommended trains. Hop on different trains and make the most of your travel time!

Kyo-Train Garaku | Feel Kyoto, From the Moment You Step On Board – Specially Designed Train

“Kirby × Hankyu Railway” Collaboration! A limited-time event featuring a wrapped train, special collaboration food, and more!

Kirby × Hankyu Railway | Enjoy the Hankyu Lines with Kirby!