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Sightseeing Express "Aoniyoshi”

Enjoy a trip from Osaka to Nara to Kyoto on a train inspired by the ancient capital of Nara.

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Debuting in April 2022, this new sightseeing limited express train operated by Kintetsu connects the three capitals of Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto without changing trains. The train's name, "Aoniyoshi," is a pillow word Japanese waka poem that refers to the ancient capital Nara. The exterior color is a noble purple, the highest of the 12 ranks in the Tenpyo period (794-1185). The interior and exterior are decorated with Tenpyo patterns based on treasures from the Shosoin Repository. The interior and exterior are decorated with Tenpyo patterns inspired by the treasures of Shosoin, the ancient storehouse of the Shogunate.

The four-car train has two types of seats: twin seats for two persons and salon seats for three or four persons, for a total of 84 seats. 2 car sales counters sell Nara's specialty sweets and craft beer, which can be enjoyed on the train. The library space in Car No. 4 is furnished with sofas where passengers can comfortably read books about the train's route.

You will also be served by a dedicated attendant on board the train. Enjoy a high-quality train ride.

Highlights

  • The sightseeing train debuted in 2022 and is operated by Kintetsu Corporation.
  • The train will run from Osaka to Nara to Kyoto without changing trains.
  • Both the ancient capital of Nara inspires the train name and interior and exterior design.
  • In the train, passengers can enjoy Nara's sweets and craft beers.
  • Original goods only available on the train are also available.

Photos

  • Train Expresses the Beauty and Preciousness of "Nara's Harmony"
Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

    Train Expresses the Beauty and Preciousness of "Nara's Harmony" Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

  • Twin seats in cars #1, #3, and #4 are custom-designed by a furniture manufacturer
Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

    Twin seats in cars #1, #3, and #4 are custom-designed by a furniture manufacturer Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

  • Partitioned, semi-private salon seats in Car #2
Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

    Partitioned, semi-private salon seats in Car #2 Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

  • Sales counters also sell original goods and other items available only on the train
Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

    Sales counters also sell original goods and other items available only on the train Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

  • A library with books and other materials related to the railway line is also available
Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

    A library with books and other materials related to the railway line is also available Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

  • The butter sandwich, which is exclusively sold on-board, also comes with a drink set.
Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

    The butter sandwich, which is exclusively sold on-board, also comes with a drink set. Photo by: Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do I need a reservation to board the bus?

A

Yes. Limited express trains have reserved seats. Please purchase a limited express ticket before boarding.

Q

Do I need an ID such as a passport to buy the ticket?

A

No identification is required.
However, passengers with physical or intellectual disabilities are entitled to a fare discount, so please present your disability certificate when purchasing a tick.

Q

Can I get a refund?

A

When a ticket is no longer needed, a refund will be processed with a handling fee.

Q

Is free WiFi available?

A

All seats can be used.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages?

A

No brochure is available. The official website is available in 5 languages.
Reference Page
Aoniyoshi

Q

Who should I contact?

A

Kintetsu Railway Telephone Center
050-3536-3957(8:00am - 9:00pm)

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
観光特急「あをによし」
Stops
Osaka-Namba, Osaka-Uehommachi, Tsuruhashi, Ikoma, Gakuenmae, Kintetsu-Nara, Yamato-Saidaiji, Kintetsu-Tanbabashi, Kyoto
Price
Osaka-Namba - Kyoto 1,960 yen
Osaka-Namba - Kintetsu Nara 1,300 yen
Kintetsu-Nara - Kyoto 1,370 yen
Credit Cards
accepted for boarding and express tickets, but not for onboard sales
Website
Official Website (English)