>>2027898>pretty directKyoto - Nara? Sure, once they finish doubletracking the line it'll probably be competitive.
Namba - Nara? Nope, the detour around the mountains is quite significant. However once the Naniwasuji line is completed(ETA 2031), JR will have a direct line from Osaka/Shin-Osaka to Nara, which will give them a different market they won't need to compete with Kintetsu in.