Travel Osaka from Kyoto｜A Route Covering Famous Tourist Spots and Hidden Gems

Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe are home to countless sightseeing attractions, and with so much to see and do, many travelers may find it difficult to fit everything into a single trip. In this article, we’ll introduce a recommended itinerary for exploring both popular attractions and hidden gems efficiently, traveling from Kyoto to Osaka and Kobe along the way.   Index About Kyoto and Osaka A 1-Day Itinerary Exploring Kyoto and Osaka’s Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems Extend Your Journey to Arima Onsen Kyoto and Osaka are neighboring cities with frequent train services, as many people travel between them for work and school. Traveling from Kyoto-kawaramachi Station, located in the heart of Kyoto’s busiest shopping district, to Osaka-umeda Station in northern Osaka takes approximately 46 minutes by Hankyu Railway.   Kyoto is known for its charming atmosphere as Japan’s ancient capital, where you can experience traditional Japanese culture at every turn. Popular activities include exploring historic townhouses (machiya) and renowned shrines and temples while dressed in a kimono, as well as savoring Kyoto-style sweets and traditional cuisine at charming machiya cafés.   Osaka, Japan’s second-largest metropolitan area after Tokyo, is packed with a wide variety of attractions. Beyond popular destinations such as Dotonbori and Shinsekai, the city is home to Universal Studios Japan, a world-famous theme park, and Osaka Castle, steeped in history and legend.   By visiting these two cities, each with its own distinct atmosphere, in a single day, you can enjoy a diverse and rewarding sightseeing experience in a limited amount of time. 8:30 AM | Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a Must-See Attraction   Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sightseeing destinations. From its famous Kiyomizu Stage, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views that change beautifully with the seasons. One of the temple’s highlights is that it opens as early as 6:00 AM, making it an ideal destination for early-morning sightseeing. Don’t miss other popular attractions nearby, such as Yasaka Pagoda and Yasaka Koshindo Temple.   Recommended Time: Allow approximately 1 hour to explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple alone, or around 2 hours if you plan to stroll around the surrounding area.   ▼Check this article▼ How to Get to Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A Complete Access Guide & Essential Tips for Travelers 10:41 AM | Board the Kyo-Train Garaku Limited Express at Hankyu Kyoto-kawaramachi Station   The Kyo-Train Garaku is a sightseeing train operated by Hankyu Railway that runs on weekends and national holidays only. No special ticket or advance reservation is required, so you can easily hop aboard and enjoy the ride.   ▼Check this article▼ Kyo-Train Garaku | Feel Kyoto, From the Moment You Step On Board – Specially Designed Train   11:30 AM | Explore Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, a Hidden Gem   At Awaji Station, transfer to the Hankyu Senri Line bound for Tengachaya and get off at Tenjinbashisuji 6-chome Station to continue your journey to Osaka.   Stroll along Japan’s longest shopping street all the way to Osaka Tenmangu Shrine. Enjoy sampling local street food and browsing the shops alongside local residents for a taste of everyday Osaka life. 12:30 PM | Visit Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, a Must-See Attraction   Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, revered as the deity of learning. Many visitors come here to pray for success in exams and academic achievement. From mid-February to early March, the shrine grounds are also beautiful with blooming plum blossoms.   If you’re visiting Osaka Tenmangu Shrine to pray, why not stop for lunch at Udon Soju Suberan Udon? Its short noodles have slits that help them catch on chopsticks or a fork, making them difficult to slip off. This unique feature has made them especially popular with students preparing for entrance exams. They’re also easy for international visitors to enjoy! 1:00 PM | Visit Osaka Castle, a Must-See Attraction   Take a taxi from Osaka Tenmangu Shrine to Osaka Castle, which takes approximately 10 minutes. One of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks, Osaka Castle houses a museum inside, where you can learn about its history. From the top floor, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the city. Another recommended activity is taking a sightseeing cruise aboard the Osaka Castle Gozabune boat, which offers a unique view of the castle as you cruise around its moat.   Recommended Time: Allow approximately 90 minutes for a standard visit. If you’d like to explore at a more leisurely pace, plan for around 2 to 3 hours.   Even after exploring both popular attractions and hidden gems in Kyoto and Osaka, it’s only 3:00 PM! You can check in to your hotel early and relax, or make the most of the rest of your day by visiting other popular Osaka destinations, such as Dotonbori and Tsutenkaku Tower, or enjoying some shopping in the Umeda area. Why not venture a little farther from Kyoto and Osaka to enjoy a relaxing hot spring getaway in Kobe?   Take the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line from Tanimachi 4-chome Station to Higashi-Umeda Station, or travel from JR Morinomiya Station to Osaka Station. Both routes will take you to the Umeda area, Osaka’s central district.   From the Hankyu Sanbangai Bus Terminal in Osaka-Umeda, hop on a Hankyu Bus to Arima Onsen. The journey takes just about one hour. Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s three oldest hot spring resorts, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing escape.   ▼Recommended Places to Stay in Arima Onsen▼ Japanese-style Inn Arima Kirari: A Stay with Complimentary Tickets to Taiko-no-Yu Hot Spring   ▼Find Out More About Arima Onsen’s Local Cuisine▼ The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town ▼Access to Arima Onsen▼ How to Get to Arima Onsen from Osaka Umeda: Travel Time and Cost by Bus and Train You can actually explore Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe all in a single day, traveling between the cities and enjoying their many attractions along the way. Each city has its own unique atmosphere, and you’ll discover plenty of delicious local food and souvenirs to take home. Use this sample itinerary as a guide and make the most of your trip around the Kansai region!

[Nov 2026] Japan’s Tax-Free Shopping Procedure: Newest Changes

Japan’s consumption tax-free shopping system will switch to a refund-based system for purchases made on or after Sunday, November 1, 2026.   Under this system, you will first purchase items at a tax-free shop at the tax-inclusive price. Then, when departing Japan within 90 days of the purchase date, you must have the items verified by Customs at an airport or seaport to confirm that they are being taken out of the country. Once this verification is complete, you will receive a refund of the equivalent consumption tax amount.   This guide summarizes the steps for tax-free shopping under the new refund-based system, along with important points to keep in mind. Use it as a reference when shopping tax-free in Japan.   Index 1. How to Shop Tax-Free Under the Current Refund-Based System 2. Important Points to Keep in Mind Under the Refund-Based System 1. Make Your Purchase Pay the tax-inclusive price at a participating tax-free shop.   2. Present Your Passport You must present your passport when making a purchase at a tax-free shop.   3. Record Your Tax-Free Purchase The details of your tax-free purchase will be recorded in the system.   4. Complete Customs Verification at the Airport or Seaport Before checking in your luggage, present your passport at a dedicated terminal for verification.   Dedicated terminals and Customs inspection areas will be set up in international departure areas at airports and seaports, before baggage check-in.   At seven airports—Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu, Fukuoka, New Chitose, and Naha—you can also complete the procedure online using Visit Japan Web  on your own smartphone or other device. Advance registration for Visit Japan Web  is required, so be sure to check the details before your trip.   5. Have Your Purchased Items Verified Customs will check that all the items you purchased are present.   6. Receive Your Refund The equivalent consumption tax amount will be refunded to your registered refund method, completing the tax-free shopping process. Here are some important points to keep in mind when shopping tax-free under Japan’s refund-based system.   ・Complete the procedure before checking in your luggage. Once you have checked in your baggage, you will no longer be able to receive your tax refund. Be sure to complete the Customs verification before handing over your luggage.   ・All purchased items must be present for verification. If even one item is missing, you will not be eligible for a refund on any of the items listed on the same receipt. The procedure is handled on a receipt-by-receipt basis, so if you do not have every item listed on a receipt, none of the items purchased under that receipt will be eligible for a refund. If you have consumed food, beverages, cosmetics, or other consumable goods in Japan, do not use the dedicated terminal. Instead, inform a Customs officer.   ・Special packaging for consumable goods will be discontinued. However, if you consume food, beverages, cosmetics, or other consumable goods in Japan, you will not be eligible for a tax refund.   ・Cruise passengers must present their passports. From November 1, 2026, a landing permit alone will no longer be sufficient to complete tax-free procedures. You must present your passport. Be sure to bring your passport with you when going ashore for sightseeing during a cruise stop.   Make sure you understand the refund-based tax-free system, which takes effect in November 2026, and enjoy shopping in Japan!

〈2026〉Kyoto’s Autumn Leaves Illuminations Guide

Among Japan’s beautiful autumn foliage, Kyoto is especially popular. Avoid the crowds during the day and opt for nighttime sightseeing instead. Here are recommended spots where you can enjoy special viewings and illuminations until late into the night.   Index Konkai-Komyoji Temple “Autumn Special Viewing: Nighttime Visits” Kitano Tenmangu Shrine “Historic Site Odoi Maple Garden Open and Illuminated” Ninnaji Temple “Sea of Clouds Illumination [Nighttime Viewing]” Hogonin “Light-Up & Special Nighttime Viewing” NAKED GARDEN NIGHTS Higashi Honganji and Shōsei-en Garden   Event Date and Time： November 13, 2026 (Fri) – December 6, 2026 (Sun) 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Last admission at 8:00 PM)   Konkai-Komyoji Temple stands on a hill overlooking Kyoto City. The inverted autumn leaves reflected on the water surface of the illuminated “Shiun no niwa(Gareden)”, renowned for its beautiful autumn foliage, are a must-see.   Every night, hold three concerts featuring traditional Japanese instruments. The sounds of traditional Japanese music blend beautifully with the temple’s atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy a truly special experience. Performance times: 5:45 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:30 PM (20 minutes each) Event Date and Time： November 13, 2026 (Fri) – December 6, 2026 (Sun) Sunset – 8:00 PM (Last admission at 7:40 PM)   Kitano Tenmangu Shrine features not only autumn foliage but also bamboo groves, making it a popular photo spot where you can see both at once. The surface of the Kamiyagawa River, flowing north-south through Momiji Garden, turns red color, and the illumination creates a fantastical atmosphere. Event Date and Time： October 24, 2026 (Sat) – December 13, 2026 (Sun) Held on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays  6:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Reception: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM) *Closed: November 8 (Sun) and 28 (Sat) *May be canceled at short notice due to adjustments for memorial services or other events.   Ninna-ji Temple, a World Heritage Site, was built in 888. The autumn leaves seen here and there in the vast precincts are magnificent. The Autumn Leaves Cloud Sea Illumination highlights the vibrant foliage adorning structures like the five-story pagoda. Artificial mist is generated, creating a fantastical atmosphere. Event Date and Time： November 13, 2026 (Fri) – December 6, 2026 (Sun) 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM ※ Last admission at 8:00 PM   Hogonin is one of the sub-temples of Tenryū-ji, “Shishiku no niwa(Garden)”—open to the public during special viewings—is a strolling landscape garden that borrows the scenery of Arashiyama. The green moss is also beautiful, and the contrast between the autumn leaves and moss is magnificent. Event Date and Time： October 31, 2026 (Sat) – December 6, 2026 (Sun) *From November 6–8 and on November 25, only Shōsei-en Garden will be open to the public. 18:00–22:00 Higashi Honganji: Last admission at 21:00; viewing ends at 21:20 Shōsei-en Garden: Viewing ends at 22:00   During the special fall evening viewing event held at Higashi Hongan-ji and its detached precinct, “Shōsei-en Garden”,  invite you to experience a new way to spend an evening in Kyoto by strolling through the garden on a fall night while enjoying the scenery, sake, and tea. Kyoto is packed with so many autumn foliage spots you can’t possibly see them all in one go, but make the most of the evening hours and enjoy exploring the foliage at your own pace.

〈2026〉Best 15 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan (Kyoto, Osaka and More)!

Japan in autumn colors. Here are some of the best places in Kansai to see the autumn leaves, by area, from once-in-a-lifetime viewing spots to hidden gems. Please refer to the fall tourism in 2026.   -INDEX- Things to keep in mind when visiting temples and shrines in Japan 【KYOTO】 〇Higashiyama Area Famous place：Eikando(Zenrin-ji) Little known good spot：Anrakuji 〇Arashiyama Area Famous place：Daikaku-ji Temple Famous place：Jojakko-ji Little known good spot：Jizoin(Takedera/Bamboo Temple) 〇Other Area Famous place：Rurikoin Little known good spot：Komyo-ji 【OSAKA】 Famous place：Minoh Waterfall Little known good spot：Katsuo-ji 【KOBE】 Famous place：Sorakuen Garden  Famous place：Kobe Municipal Arboretum Little known good spot：Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden Little known good spot：Rokko-Arima Ropeway 【Other Area】 Himeji：KOKO-EN Nara：Hasedera temple   FAQs About Fall Foliage in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe When visiting temples and shrines, be sure to observe proper etiquette and manners. Here are some guidelines that apply to both temples and shrines. 1. Do not speak loudly. Temples and shrines are sacred places, so please enjoy them quietly.   2. Do not eat or drink on the grounds. This is strictly prohibited. Even outdoors, it may be considered a breach of etiquette, so please be careful.   3. Do not touch buildings, torii gates, or statues. Leaning on torii gates or touching Buddhist statues is strictly prohibited. Treat these sacred objects with respect.   4. Confirm photography rules. Photography is prohibited in many areas, so check signs and notices before taking photos.   5. Do not walk in the middle of the approach. The middle of the approach is the path for the gods, so walk on the side.   In addition, the methods of worship differ between temples and shrines. At shrines, it is common to worship with two bows, two claps, and one bow, but at temples, clapping is not done. Observe etiquette and manners, and enjoy visiting temples and shrines. 🍁Usual viewing time: mid-November to late November   Eikando is the best place in Higashiyama to view the autumn leaves. About 3,000 maple trees cover the entire precincts of the temple. The sight of the tallest pagoda, Dabotou, enveloped by the autumn leaves is a fantastic sight. Japanese maples are planted around the Housho Pond, and the reflection of the Japanese maples and the Gokuraku Bridge in the water is a must-see. 🍁Usual viewing time: mid-November to late November   Normally closed to the public, this special temple is open to the public only during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Within walking distance is the Philosopher’s Path, which is tinted in autumn, so a walk along this path is recommended. Highlights include the scattered autumn leaves that turn the stone steps of the temple gate bright red and the beautiful garden with Nyoigatake in the background.   Scheduled Special Opening Dates: November 1 (Sun), 2 (Mon), 3 (Tue), 7 (Sat), 8 (Sun), 14 (Sat), 15 (Sun), and 21 (Sat) through December 6 (Sun), 2026 *Gates open at 12:00 PM on Sunday, the 8th   ▼Check this article▼ 【Kyoto】1 Day Trip｜Let’s walk around Higashiyama, Kyoto to see the autumn leaves! 🍁Usual viewing time: Mid-November to late November   The combination of the beautiful colors of the pagoda and the fiery maple leaves is gorgeous. Osawa Pond to the east is also a popular spot for viewing autumn leaves. The reflection of the autumn scenery on the surface of the water is fantastic.   ▼Food info of Arashiyama area▼ Kyoto Arashiyama Sightseeing Half-day Model Course! Capture the bamboo forest, temples, nature, and major spots! 9 Sweets in Arashiyama, Kyoto, from Easy Eats to Stylish Cafes 🍁Usual viewing time: Mid-November to late November   This temple is located on Mt. Ogura, known for the Ogura Hyakunin Isshitsu. In autumn, the approach from the entrance gate to the Niomon Gate is covered in autumn leaves, creating a tunnel of foliage. The autumn leaves surrounding the 12-meter tall Dabotou (pagoda), which is located at the top of the stone steps, is a must-see. The precincts of the temple and the area around the pagoda also offer a panoramic view of Kyoto City. 🍁Usual viewing time: late November   Jizoin (Takedera/Bamboo Temple) is a Zen temple with beautiful bamboo groves, as its name suggests, and is a well-known spot for autumn leaves among those in the know. The trees change color later than other places in Kyoto, and the autumn leaves can be enjoyed until mid-December. Surrounded by lush bamboo groves, the contrast between the green of the bamboo and the changing colors of the autumn leaves is magnificent. The heart-shaped window, Inome-mado, in the Hojo is also open to the public. The autumn leaves cut by the window are breathtakingly beautiful. 🍁Usual viewing time: mid-November to late November   Ruriko-in Temple is a popular spot in Rakuhoku Yase, and the spectacular view of the autumn leaves reflecting on the lacquered desk on the second floor is a sight to behold. Anyone can take pictures of this spectacular view by holding up a camera at the desk. It will be released in spring, summer, and autumn. Please enjoy the wide-open view of the autumn leaves as they spread across your field of vision.   Special viewing period: October 1, 2026 (Thu) – December 13, 2026 (Sun) *From Saturday, November 13 to  December 6, advance reservations will be accepted by lottery. Please check the official website for details.     🍁Usual viewing time: Mid-November to early December   Sohonzan Komyoji Temple is located at the foot of Nishiyama in Nagaokakyo City. Visitors can see the rich expression of nature in each of the four seasons. Every year from mid-November to early December, a special entrance to the temple is held for the autumn foliage. The maple approach to the temple, with its impressive lineup of about 250 old maple trees, is a superb photo spot. Nishiyama is one of Kyoto’s best but not well-known sightseeing spots. If you want to enjoy Kyoto without the crowds, or if you want to visit a spot that is not yet known, check out the article below.   Special Access Period: November 14, 2026– December 6, 2026   ▼Check this article▼ Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! 🍁Usual viewing time: mid-November to early December   Minoh Great Falls is one of the best places in Osaka to view the autumn leaves. The contrast between the waterfall and the autumn leaves in the vast Minoh Park is spectacular. You can enjoy the autumn leaves everywhere along the 2.6 km route from Hankyu Minoh Station to the falls. If you come to Minoh, you must try the famous “Momiji no Tempura” (maple leaf tempura). It is a slightly sweet and crunchy snack made by carefully frying real maple leaves one by one. You can buy it at a store on Takimichi.   ▼Check this article▼ Minoh, Osaka-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy The Most Beautiful Nature in Osaka! Hiking at Minoh Waterfalls and Katsuo-ji Temple Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there 🍁Usual viewing time: mid-November to early December   Known since ancient times as a temple of good fortune, the precincts of Minoh’s Katsuo-ji Temple are decorated with brilliant autumn leaves in November. The tunnel of autumn leaves covering the approach to the temple is especially spectacular. The contrast between the green mountains in the background and the autumn leaves is like a painting. Katsuo-ji Temple is also known as the temple of “Kachi-Dharma”. Small Dharma dolls are laid everywhere, including on the stairs and stone walls. Please enjoy the adorable Dharma and beautiful nature.   ▼Check this article▼ What is the highlight of Katsuo-ji in Minoh? A temple of luck to win in Osaka sightseeing ▼Check out this article for directions to Katsuo-ji Temple▼ [Train & Bus Guide] How to Get to Katsuo-ji Temple in Osaka? Key Travel Tips for International Visitors 🍁Usual viewing time: mid-November to early December   Sorakuen Garden is the only Japanese garden in Kobe City’s urban parks. It is a kaiyu-style garden with a pond, with stepping stones and stone bridges across which visitors can view streams and waterfalls. The garden is famous for azaleas in spring, and in autumn the garden is decorated with autumn leaves.   Important cultural properties such as the boathouse and the former Hassam residence, which were relocated for preservation, are also highlights. Why not enjoy an authentic Japanese garden and fall foliage viewing in the city of Kobe?   ▼Check this article▼ 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals 🍁Usual viewing time: late October – early November   The park is divided into different regions of the world, such as North America and Europe, and different types of trees, so that visitors can learn about the diverse beauty of autumn leaves. The area around Hase Pond is a particularly beautiful spot for viewing the autumn colors in a water mirror. Let’s take a stroll through the vast park and enjoy the world tour of autumn leaves!   ▼Sightseeing and food info of Kobe▼ 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course 🍁Usual viewing time: late October – early November   Located at an altitude of 865 meters, the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden reaches its autumn foliage season earlier than the city. Trees like maples and beeches typically begin to change color from mid-October, with the peak season lasting until mid-November. Taking advantage of the climate, which is similar to southern Hokkaido, the garden cultivates alpine plants, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn colors of a wide variety of rare plants. During KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond, from Saturday, September 19 to November 29, 2026, light artworks and illuminated autumn leaves will be on display on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays!   ▼KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond Information▼ KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond ｜Review and Sample Itineraries 🍁Usual viewing time: late October – early November   The Rokko-Arima Ropeway connects the top of Mt. Rokko and Arima Onsen in about 12 minutes. Visitors can enjoy the changing autumn leaves depending on the elevation. The view of the autumn foliage from the gondola’s large foot-high windows is spectacular. Don’t forget to visit Rokko Mountain, where “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond” will be held from August 29 to November 29, 2026, and Arima Onsen to enjoy art, hot springs, and gourmet food!   ▼Check this article▼ Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature! The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town 🍁Usual viewing time: mid-November to late November   There are nine gardens of different styles with Himeji Castle, which is registered as a World Heritage site, in the background. Because of the atmosphere of the Edo period, the gardens are often used for filming movies and TV dramas. In the fall, the Autumn Foliage Festival is held from November 17 to December 6, 2026. The best time to visit is during the “Momiji-kai” (autumn foliage viewing), when the leaves are illuminated for a fantastic view. You can enjoy a fantastic view that is different from that of daytime. During this period, the park is open until 20:00.(Last admission is at 19:30) 🍁Usual viewing time: late November – mid December   Hasedera Temple, located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, is known as the “Temple of Flowers”. The temple is open twice a year, in spring and fall, for a limited time for special visits. A must-see spot is the floor of the hall of worship. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the “Yuka-momiji” (floor maple leaves) that turn bright red. The view of the autumn leaves from the stage in front of the main hall is not to be missed. The five-story pagoda surrounded by autumn leaves is a magnificent sight. Be sure to visit Hasedera Temple, where the entire mountain is decorated with autumn leaves.   Special Viewing: October 5, 2026 (Sat) – December 8, 2026 (Sun) (Separate admission fee of 1,000 yen) Q. When is the best time to see the fall foliage in 2026? A. As of September 4, the forecast is for conditions similar to the average year. In the lowlands, the peak viewing period is expected to be from late November through mid-December, while in the mountainous areas, it is expected to be from early November through early December. Autumn in Japan is very vivid. The temperature has dropped, making it comfortable to be out. There are so many places to see the autumn leaves that it is impossible to visit them all at once. Please find your favorite spot and enjoy the autumn foliage as you wish.

Curious George × HANKYU Collaboration: Ride the Special Train, Shop Exclusive Goods, and Enjoy Limited-Edition Food

To celebrate the 85th anniversary of Curious George in 2026, the beloved little monkey is teaming up with HANKYU for a special collaboration!   From a Curious George-themed wrapped train to exclusive merchandise and limited-edition food and drinks, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the campaign. If you’re visiting Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe during the event period, don’t miss this adorable collaboration!   Index 1. Ride the Curious George Train through Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe 2. Exclusive merchandise featuring George in HANKYU’s signature maroon railway uniform 3. Cute and delicious! Curious George × HANKYU collaboration food & drinks 4. George pops up at Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, and more, plus a joint stamp rally The Curious George × HANKYU collaboration runs from July 31, 2026 (Fri.) to February 17, 2027 (Wed.).   The highlight of the campaign is undoubtedly the Curious George Train. One train on each of HANKYU’s three main lines—the Kobe Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Kobe-sannomiya), Kyoto Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Kyoto-kawaramachi), and Takarazuka Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Takarazuka)—has been completely transformed with Curious George-themed decorations. Each train features an exclusive exterior design inspired by landmarks along its route. You may spot familiar sights such as Kobe Port Tower and the zoo on the Kobe Line, the Takarazuka Grand Theater and Minoh Falls on the Takarazuka Line, or torii gates and matcha motifs on the Kyoto Line. The Curious George Train also carries a special commemorative headmark, while a Curious George plush dressed in HANKYU’s signature maroon railway uniform accompanies the train from the crew’s cabin. Inside the train, every corner is filled with the world of Curious George. Be sure to look for the themed stickers on the doors and windows—each railway line has its own exclusive designs. Even the hand straps and hanging advertisements have been transformed into Curious George decorations! A wide range of exclusive collaboration merchandise is also available, including plush toys, lunch tote bags, acrylic cups, pin badges, and more, all featuring George dressed in HANKYU’s iconic maroon railway uniform. The collection includes 24 charming items you’ll want to use every day.   ■Release Date: From August 26 (release dates vary by retailer)   Available at: Selected Lawson stores along the Hankyu Hanshin railway network, Color Field cosmetic and lifestyle stores (all locations), Cleduple, selected Kiddy Land stores, and other participating retailers. *Please note that all merchandise is available while supplies last.   The Curious George × HANKYU collection, along with other official HANKYU railway merchandise, is also available through the HANKYU DENSHA SHOP　online store. Looking for a unique souvenir? From August 4 to November 9, 2026, limited-edition collaboration food items will be available at shops located inside and around HANKYU stations. *Please note that sales periods vary by store. At Freds Cafe (located at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-kitaguchi Station, and other locations), you’ll find two specially packaged flavored teas: Tropical Fruit and Chocolate Banana. At A la Campagne, available at stations including Nishinomiya-kitaguchi, the collaboration features a banana-flavored madeleine created especially for the event. Meanwhile, Tully’s Coffee stores at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-kitaguchi Station, and other locations are serving fluffy baked cakes printed with an adorable image of George. They’re topped with banana jam—George’s favorite—and whipped cream drizzled with chocolate sauce. You’ll also find Curious George × HANKYU original-label bottled drinks in vending machines at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi Station, and other stations. The labels can be carefully peeled off and used as stickers, making them a fun keepsake. There are 13 different label designs, so you’ll never know which one you’ll get!   ▶ Click here　for collaboration food sales shops and periods. Starting August 18, 2026, participating commercial facilities—including Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, NU Chayamachi Plus, Grand Front Osaka Shops & Restaurants, and Hankyu Nishinomiya Gardens—will host a series of special events under the theme “Let’s Go! George’s Exciting Adventure Team.” *Event dates vary by venue.   At Hankyu Sanbangai, visitors can enjoy themed photo spots. In addition, customers who spend ¥1,000 (tax included) or more at participating UMEDA FOOD HALL restaurants will receive either an original coaster or an original placemat, depending on the campaign period.   ▶ For details of commercial facilities check here Visitors can also join a joint stamp rally by collecting stamps at all six stamp locations across Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, and NU Chayamachi Plus. Complete the rally to receive an exclusive original clear file.   ▶ For details of the Hankyu Sanbangai × NU Chayamachi Joint Stamp Rally check here   Step into the delightful world of Curious George through themed trains, exclusive food, special events, and unique shopping experiences.   © & ® UCS LLC and HC LLC ©Hankyu Corp.

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