With the start of international charter flights in 2025 and an increase in direct flights from Taiwan, Kobe Airport has become even more convenient.

So many travelers ask, “What’s the best way to get to Osaka after arrival?”

To answer that question, we’ve thoroughly compared access options from Kobe Airport to Osaka (Umeda)—focusing especially on the affordable and comfortable Hankyu Railway route that we recommend most.

There are two main ways to travel from Kobe Airport to central Osaka (the Umeda area): by train or by airport limousine bus. Taxis are also available, but they are omitted here because long-distance travel by taxi is quite expensive. There are three train routes, and we have compared each transportation option—including the bus—in terms of service frequency, fares, and travel time.

Comparison of transportation methods between Kobe Airport and Osaka (Umeda area)

*As of January 2026.

*Train travel times are approximate and include transfer times.

The airport limousine bus runs only four times a day, making it difficult to use conveniently. For this reason, traveling by train is generally recommended.

There are three train options: Hankyu Railway, Hanshin Railway, and JR. Among them, Hankyu Railway is especially recommended for the following four reasons.

1.  It’s the cheapest option

Traveling by JR costs 760 yen, while Hankyu Railway costs 670 yen—saving you 90 yen.

2. No traffic jams, so you can plan your time easily

Unlike buses, trains are not affected by traffic congestion, making it easier to keep to your travel schedule.

3. Frequent service means little waiting time

During the daytime, express trains run about every 10 minutes, so you can ride without worrying too much about the timetable.

4. Comfortable ride

One of the features of Hankyu trains is their elegant interior and soft, cushioned seats. You can relax and enjoy the scenery on your way to Osaka.

(1) Go to Port Liner Kobe Airport Station (P09)

The Port Liner is an automated driverless train that connects Kobe Airport and Sannomiya.

After exiting the arrival lobby at Kobe Airport, follow the signs and go up to the 2nd floor. You will find the Port Liner ticket gates right there. Since the station is directly connected to the terminal, it takes less than a minute to reach on foot.

(2) Travel from Kobe Airport Station to Sannomiya Station (P01)

All Port Liner trains departing from here go to Sannomiya, so there’s no risk of boarding the wrong train. The journey takes about 18 minutes.

(3) Transfer from Port Liner Sannomiya Station to Hankyu Railway Kobe-Sannomiya Station (HK-16)

After arriving at Port Liner Sannomiya Station, exit the ticket gates and turn right.

Walk for a short distance and you will see an escalator on your right—take it down to the first floor and then turn left.

Follow the signs for “Hankyu Railway” and go up the stairs.

Cross the connecting bridge and enter the building again, then turn right.

After walking a little further, you will see the East Ticket Gate of Hankyu Railway Kobe-Sannomiya Station on your left. The transfer takes about 5 minutes on foot and is smooth and easy.

(4) Get off at the terminal station, Hankyu Railway Osaka-umeda Station (HK-01)

From Hankyu Railway Kobe-Sannomiya Station, board a Limited Express train bound for Osaka-Umeda. In about 32 minutes, you will arrive at the terminal station, Osaka-Umeda Station.

When you exit the 3rd-floor ticket gates of Osaka-Umeda Station and take the escalator down to the 1st floor, you will immediately find the tourist information center for international visitors, Hankyu Tourist Center Osaka-Umeda.

In addition to sightseeing and transportation guidance, it offers the following convenient services:

　・Sale of special-value Hankyu Railway tickets (Tourist Passes)

　・Wi-Fi router rental

　・Baggage storage (paid service)

Multilingual staff are available, so once you arrive in Osaka, be sure to stop by here first to get useful travel information!

Traveling from Kobe Airport to Osaka is best done by the Hankyu Railway, which is affordable, fast, and comfortable. Transfers from the Port Liner are also simple, so be sure to use the Hankyu Railway and enjoy your Kansai trip smartly and economically!

▼Check this article▼

First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course

[2025] Top 12 Recommended Family-friendly Spots in Kobe

10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals