Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ment store), this is the main tourist information centre in Kyoto. English speakers are al-
ways on hand and, occasionally, speakers of other European and Asian languages are
available. They stock useful maps of the city, as well as bus maps, and can answer most of
your questions. Note that it's called 'Kyo Navi' in Japanese (in case you have to ask
someone).
Kyoto Station building, on the 2nd floor, it's geared towards Japanese visitors, though an
English-speaking staff member is usually on hand and it's easier to find than the following
places listed here.
tourist information centre is right downtown (just north of the Shijō-Kawaramachi inter-
section). They stock a variety of maps and there's usually an English-speaker on hand.
Kansai International Airporttourist information counter
( 0724-56-6025;
8.30am-8.30pm)
This counter is on the 1st floor of the international arrivals hall. Staff here
can provide information on Kyoto, Kansai and Japan.
Torii-chō 2-1; 9am-9pm Tue-Sun; 5min walk from Keage Station, Tōzai subway line)
An essential stop
for those planning a long-term stay in Kyoto, the KICH can also be quite useful for short-
term visitors. It has a library with maps, books, newspapers and magazines from around
the world, and a board displaying messages regarding work, accommodation, rummage
sales etc. You can send and receive faxes, and use the internet (¥200 per 30 minutes). You
can also pick up a copy of its excellent
Guide to Kyoto
map and its
Easy Living in Kyoto
book (note that both of these are intended for residents). You can also chill out in the
lobby and watch CNN news.
Travel Agencies
Kyoto has several good central travel agencies that can arrange discount air tickets, car
rental and accommodation, as well as other services. These agencies include
IACE
Travel
OFFLINE MAP
( 212-8944; Nakagyō-ku, Karasuma dōri, Shijō agaru, Takanna-chō 688, Dai15Hase Bldg,
4F; 10am-7pm Mon-Fri, 11am-6pm Sat; 1min walk from Shijō Station, Subway Karasuma line)
, which of-
fers phone consultations from 10am to 5pm Sundays and holidays on
06-6265-3337.
