Kintetsu Tambabashi Station

Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Kyoto Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: The Gateway to Kyoto’s History and Culture

Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station, located in Kyoto’s Fushimi Ward, is far more than a transit point—it is a vital hub connecting travelers to the city’s storied past and vibrant present. As a key intersection on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line, with seamless transfers to Keihan Tambabashi Station, it enables efficient travel throughout Kyoto and the greater Kansai region. The station’s modern amenities, accessible design, and strategic location make it the perfect launchpad for exploring nearby historical sites, imperial tombs, renowned temples, and the celebrated Fushimi sake district. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this guide offers detailed, practical information to help you navigate the station, purchase tickets, and discover the cultural wealth surrounding Kintetsu-Tambabashi.

Station Overview and Visiting Hours
Ticketing and Travel Options
Accessibility and Facilities
Travel Tips for Tourists
Station Layout and Amenities
Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites
Guided Tours and Special Events
Station’s Historical Development
Local Significance and Seasonal Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Discover Toji Temple: Travel Guide
Summary and Call to Action
References and Further Reading

Station Overview and Visiting Hours

Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station operates daily from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight, in alignment with Kintetsu Kyoto Line train schedules. The station supports thousands of passengers daily and is equipped with modern facilities to enhance comfort and efficiency for both locals and visitors. For up-to-date train times and operational notices, consult the official Kintetsu Railway website.

Ticketing and Travel Options

Tickets for journeys on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line can be purchased at multilingual ticket machines, staffed counters, or via the official Kintetsu Railway mobile app. The station accepts major IC cards including PiTaPa, ICOCA, and Suica, allowing for quick, contactless fare payment. Limited express tickets are available for faster connections to regional destinations. The station also supports QR code tickets and offers Kansai One Pass and Kansai Railway Pass options for tourists. For details on pass acceptance, see the Kyoto Tourism Guide.

Accessibility and Facilities

Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station is fully barrier-free, featuring elevators, escalators, tactile paving for the visually impaired, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchair users benefit from step-free access to all platforms and ticket gates. The station offers luggage storage via coin-operated lockers, baby care facilities, waiting rooms, and AEDs. Staff are trained to assist travelers with special needs.

For seamless transfers, a sheltered pedestrian bridge links Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station with Keihan Tambabashi Station. Bilingual signage and clear route maps make navigation easy for international visitors.

Travel Tips for Tourists

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings and late evenings are less crowded.
Language Support: English signage is prevalent, and many staff members can assist with basic English inquiries.
Luggage: Lockers are available near ticket gates for short-term storage.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is accessible at the adjacent Keihan station and nearby convenience stores.
Transfers: The direct connection to Keihan Tambabashi Station offers optimal access to Kyoto’s central and southern districts.

Station Layout and Amenities

Structure:

Two main ticket gate areas (North and South), each with multilingual ticket machines and staffed offices.
Two island platforms serving four tracks, with platforms clearly marked for northbound (Kyoto) and southbound (Osaka) trains.
Elevators, escalators, and stairs connect all levels.
Well-signposted transfer passage to Keihan Tambabashi Station.

Amenities:

Waiting rooms with comfortable seating
Baby care and changing facilities
Coin lockers (300–700 yen, various sizes)
Convenience stores and ATMs
Safety features including AEDs and emergency phones
Information desks for tourist support

For detailed station maps and facility guides, refer to the official Keihan PDF guide.

Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites

Fushimi Momoyama Castle

A striking symbol of the Momoyama period, this reconstructed castle offers panoramic views and is surrounded by a park famous for cherry blossoms in spring.

Gokonomiya Shrine

Revered for its pure spring water and historical festivals, Gokonomiya Shrine is a tranquil retreat within walking distance of the station.

Imperial Tombs

Explore the imperial tombs of Emperor Kammu and Emperor Meiji, which highlight Kyoto’s legacy as the imperial capital.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

One of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, Fushimi Inari Taisha is renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up Mount Inari. Open 24 hours with free admission, it is easily accessible via the Keihan Main Line.

Fushimi Sake District

A historic brewing center, the Fushimi area boasts over 20 sake breweries. The Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum provides a window into centuries-old brewing traditions.

Teradaya Inn

The Teradaya Inn is a preserved ryokan tied to Sakamoto Ryoma and the Meiji Restoration, offering guided tours into Japan’s revolutionary era.

Fushimi Port Park and River Cruises

The Jikkokubune boat tours provide a unique way to experience Kyoto’s historic waterways, especially popular during cherry blossom season.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided walking and cycling tours focusing on Fushimi’s culture, sake heritage, and historical landmarks often start from Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station. Seasonal highlights include the Fushimi Sake Festival, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) gatherings, and autumn foliage events. For up-to-date event calendars, visit the Kyoto Tourism Guide.

Station’s Historical Development

Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station’s history mirrors the evolution of Kyoto’s transit network:

1910: Keihan Electric Railway opens Momoyama Station (later Tambabashi Station) (Wikipedia).
1928: Nara Electric Railway opens Horiuchi Station, predecessor to Kintetsu-Tambabashi (JapaneseWiki).
1945: Direct connections between Kintetsu and Keihan lines begin, enabling mutual operations.
1968: Mutual operations end; Kintetsu-Tambabashi becomes an independent station (JapaneseWiki).
1970: Renamed Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station.
1998/2002: Rapid and limited express services commence.
2007: PiTaPa smart card system introduced.

The station remains one of Kyoto’s busiest, serving as the main interchange for southern Kyoto and connecting directly to the region’s imperial, cultural, and commercial hubs (Wikipedia).

Local Significance and Seasonal Highlights

Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station is integral to Fushimi’s identity, supporting community life and local businesses. The area comes alive during festivals, cherry blossom season, and autumn foliage. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, shop for crafts, and experience Kyoto’s living traditions in a relaxed, authentic setting. The Fushimi Otesuji Shopping Street and nearby markets offer culinary and cultural immersion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the station’s operating hours?
A: Approximately 5:00 AM to midnight.

Q: How can I purchase tickets?
A: Use ticket machines, staffed counters, or IC cards (PiTaPa, ICOCA, Suica). QR code and mobile ticketing options are available.

Q: Is the station accessible for travelers with disabilities?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and staff support.

Q: How do I transfer to Keihan Tambabashi Station?
A: Use the direct, step-free pedestrian bridge connecting the two stations.

Q: Are there luggage storage options?
A: Yes, coin lockers are available near ticket gates.

Discover Toji Temple: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Introduction

Toji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s oldest temples, is famous for its five-story pagoda—the tallest in Japan. Founded in 796 AD, Toji played a central role in the spread of Shingon Buddhism and houses many national treasures.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM), with occasional holiday closures (Toji Temple website).
Admission: Temple grounds are free; pagoda and treasure hall entry is around 600 yen for adults (discounts for students/seniors).
Guided Tours: Multi-language tours available; book in advance.
Access:
- From Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station: 7-minute train ride to Kyoto Station, then a 5-minute walk.
- From Toji Station: 2-minute walk.

Nearby Highlights

Fushimi Inari Taisha: Iconic torii gates, accessible via Keihan Main Line.
Kyoto Tower: Panoramic views of the city.
Kyoto National Museum: Important cultural artifacts.

Visitor Tips

Best Times: Spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (foliage).
Accessibility: Barrier-free facilities available.
Events: Flea markets on the 21st of each month and seasonal illuminations.

Summary and Call to Action

Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station is a gateway to Kyoto’s remarkable heritage, connecting travelers to imperial tombs, reconstructed castles, spiritual shrines, and the renowned Fushimi sake district. Its accessibility, comprehensive facilities, and integration with the Keihan network make it ideal for both sightseeing and daily commuting. With the added allure of Toji Temple and other nearby treasures, the station area encapsulates Kyoto’s harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

Plan your visit using official resources like Kintetsu Railway, Keihan Electric Railway, and the Kyoto Tourism Guide. For tailored itineraries and real-time travel updates, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media for exclusive tips.