Osaka Itami Airport Car Rental: The Closest Airport to Kyoto

Quick summary: Osaka International Airport, widely known as Itami, is the closest airport to Kyoto. Despite its name, it mainly handles domestic flights, so it suits travelers flying in from elsewhere in Japan. It sits in the northern suburbs of Osaka, with expressway connections toward Kyoto, making it a convenient pickup for a road trip around the Kansai region.

At a glance
Airport	Osaka International (Itami)
Flights	Mainly domestic
Location	Northern Osaka suburbs
Closest to	Kyoto
Route	Expressways toward Kyoto
Tours	Full-day tours

Compare car rental at Osaka Itami Airport

Who should pick up at Itami?

Travelers arriving on domestic flights, such as from Tokyo, Hokkaido or Okinawa, who want a car for exploring Kyoto’s surroundings.

How do you get from Itami to Kyoto?

Follow expressway signs toward Kyoto. A GPS helps, and you’ll pay tolls along the way. Check pickup arrangements in your booking confirmation.

Where can you go from Itami?

Destination	Tours
Arashiyama’s western hills	Arashiyama tours, Bamboo forest tours
Sake breweries south of Kyoto	Sake tours
Rural temples and shrines	Temple and shrine tours

Is Itami better than Kansai?

For domestic arrivals heading to Kyoto, yes, as it’s closer. International arrivals land at Kansai. See Kansai Airport car rental.

Compare car rental at Osaka Kansai Airport

Frequently Asked Questions