Important: Train Schedule Update for Koyasan (Effective March 28, 2026)
Starting March 28, 2026, the Nankai Railway timetable will change. While the number of direct “Limited Express Koya” trains is decreasing, reaching Koyasan remains easy and convenient with a simple transfer.
1. The Major Changes
- Significant Reduction on Weekdays: The number of direct “Koya” trains (no transfer needed) will be reduced significantly.
- Weekend Adjustments: Direct services on Saturdays and Holidays will also see a decrease in frequency.
- Koyasan is still accessible: Trains to the mountain are NOT stopping. Only the “no-transfer” option is becoming less frequent.
2. New Direct “Limited Express Koya” Timetable
(Direct from Osaka Namba to Koyasan/Gokurakubashi)
From Osaka (Namba) to Koyasan:
- Weekdays: 10:00 / 13:30
- Weekends & Holidays: 7:00 / 8:00 / 10:00 / 11:15 / 13:30 / 14:30
From Koyasan to Osaka (Namba):
- Weekdays: 11:30 / 16:34
- Weekends & Holidays: 8:15 / 9:20 / 11:30 / 12:33 / 16:12 / 16:46
Note: Some weekend services are seasonal and may not run during winter (Dec–Feb).
3. Traveling via “Limited Express Rinkan”
If there is no direct train at your preferred time, we recommend the Limited Express Rinkan.
- Comfortable Reserved Seats: Just like the Koya train, the Rinkan offers guaranteed, comfortable seating from Namba to Hashimoto Station.
- Simple Transfer at Hashimoto: You will need to change to a local train at Hashimoto Station.
- Same Platform: The transfer happens on the same platform. You do NOT need to use stairs or elevators with your luggage.
4. Budget-Friendly Option: Express (Kyuko) Trains
For those who prefer more flexibility or a lower price:
- Frequent Service: Express (Kyuko) trains run many times every hour from Namba Station.
- No Reservation Needed: You can use your IC Card (Suica/Pasmo) or a standard ticket. There is no extra fee for these trains.
- Simple Change: Like the Rinkan, you may need to change trains at Hashimoto on the same platform.
5. How to Book Online
To ensure a seat, we recommend using the Nankai Limited Express Ticket Online Service:
- Select Your Route: Enter Namba to Hashimoto (for Rinkan) or Namba to Gokurakubashi (for Koya).
- Pick Your Seat: You can choose your seat from a digital map.
- Digital Ticket: You do not need a paper ticket; just show your smartphone screen if requested.
Summary for Our Guests
Don’t worry! Even with fewer direct trains, the journey to Koyasan is still beautiful and simple. Whether you take the Direct Koya, the Rinkan, or the Express train, we are here to welcome you at the top of the mountain.