KKyoto

Heading to Kyoto for a 3-Month Internship—Need Tips!!

  • February 24, 2025

Hey everyone!

I’m heading to Kyoto for a 3-month internship soon, and I’m super excited but also looking for some advice from those who have been there or lived in Japan. I’d really appreciate any insights on the following:

  • Pocket WiFi vs. SIM – I’m still on an iPhone 12 Pro (so no eSIM). Would a pocket WiFi be the best option for reliable internet? Any recommendations on providers with good coverage and fair prices?
  • Public Transport – I know Kyoto has buses and trains, but is there a go-to IC card (Suica/Pasmo/ICOCA) that’s best for getting around the city? Also, how reliable are buses compared to trains?
  • Everyday Life Tips – Any must-know basics for living in Kyoto for a few months? Things like convenience store hacks, cheap eats, cultural dos and don’ts, or any apps I should download?
  • Food – I am a big foodie. Please give me your favorite food spots.

I know this is vague but if you have any more tips please let me know!!!! Would love to hear any advice or experiences! Thanks in advance!!

by MessorZ

5 comments

  2. Busses have certain numbers on them that only stops within its designated area, so you need to be careful on where you’re heading to, as well as what bus number stops on that place. Trains have no problem since the next station is posted on signs in the station.

  4. SIM card is probably both more convenient and cheaper than pocket wifi. Personally I use an iijmio SIM, they have very cheap data plans. But make sure to check their website to be sure it will work with your iPhone, I’m not sure about that. That said, pocket wifi would be better if you need to use it for a laptop too.

    IC cards are pretty interchangeable, you can use pretty much everything everywhere. ICOCA is JR West so that’s probably what you’ll get, but you could use Suica/Pasmo/etc too.

    Kyoto trains are great, but their coverage is limited. The bus network is extensive and fairly reliable, but can get quite crowded, especially in tourist areas. If you’re going to be riding a lot there is a [1100 yen one-day subway&bus pas](https://www2.city.kyoto.lg.jp/kotsu/webguide/en/ticket/regular_1day_card_comm.html)s but it’s rarely worth it in my experience. I recommend getting a bicycle if you’re able, it’s a great way to get around Kyoto.

    random life tips:
    * Most conbini have ATMs that work with foreign credit cards, this is usually the best way to get yen (generally gives you a better rate than if you change money at a bank or foreign exchange).
    * Trash separation is taken pretty seriously in Japan, so make sure to learn your local trash rules.
    * Beware that some places, especially smaller cafes etc., only accept cash. However a growing number of places will accept PayPay (cashless payment app) even if they don’t accept card.
    * My favorite place in Kyoto is the Kamogawa.

    Good luck!

  5. I would go sim, I used Line Mobile as my provider and I never had any issues and the price point was good.
    I had a Suica, but I think any will work fine, the transport is extremely reliable and on time it’s incredible. But I’d always opt for a train out of convenience, however that depends where you live!
    Just be polite, use your manners, be courteous etc

    The amount of insane food on offer is mind blowing, just try everything possible is my suggestion!

Leave a Reply