- Must visit
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto’s leading art museum, with major Japanese and international exhibitions. A top stop for modern and classic art near Okazaki’s cultural zone.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Matsumoto to Kyoto
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Matsumoto to Kyoto among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $137 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 55m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $137, while a flight costs an average of $210.
Distance: 149 miles (241 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight |
|---|---|
$137 Average price Cheapest | $210 Average price |
5h 47m Average total duration 5h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 55m Average total duration Fastest 55m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Matsumoto to Kyoto is a train with an average price of $137.
This is compared to other travel options from Matsumoto to Kyoto:
A train is $73 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Matsumoto to Kyoto costing on average $210.
The fastest way to travel from Matsumoto to Kyoto is by flight with an average journey time of 55m.
Other travel options to Kyoto take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 17m.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Matsumoto to Kyoto among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Matsumoto to Kyoto by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Matsumoto to Kyoto
JapanJapan
Trains from Matsumoto to Kyoto run on average 30 times per day, taking around 5h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $135 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 21:30, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the distance in 5h 1m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Average train duration 5h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $135 |
Trains per day 30 |
Fastest train 5h 1m |
First train 9:30 PM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: JR East, JR Central from Matsumoto to Kyoto trainsJR East, JR Central trains will get you between Matsumoto and Kyoto from $135. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
JR East
About
East Japan Railway Company (JR East) is the largest passenger railway company in Japan, operating a network of 7,418.7 kilometers across the eastern half of Honshu, including Tokyo. Serving approximately 16 million passengers daily, JR East manages 1,682 stations and operates 11,863 trains per day. Beyond transportation, the company engages in various lifestyle services, including retail, real estate development, and hotel management, aiming to be a "Trusted Life-Style Service Creating Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average JR East Duration
5h 1m
Cheapest JR East Price
$135
JR East frequency
29 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage is allowed on JR East trains without additional charges.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage may be subject to space availability and may incur extra fees.
Luggage storage
Luggage storage areas are available on certain trains, such as the Shinkansen.
Cancellation Policy
Full refunds are provided for unused tickets; refunds for used tickets are subject to handling charges.
Refund
Full refunds are provided if a train is canceled.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors aged 6 to 11 can travel on JR East trains with a consent form from a guardian.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are available for purchase on Shinkansen trains.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations on Shinkansen trains require an additional fee.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
JR East trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with disabilities, including priority seating and accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bicycles are permitted on JR East trains if they are folded and placed in a carrying case.
Pets
Pets are allowed on JR East trains if they are in a carrier not exceeding 70 cm in total dimensions.
JR Central
About
Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) is a leading railway operator in Japan's Chūbu region, established in 1987. Headquartered in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, JR Central is renowned for operating the Tōkaidō Shinkansen, the world's busiest high-speed rail line connecting Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. The company manages approximately 1,970 kilometers of railway routes, including the Tōkaidō Main Line and several regional lines. Beyond transportation, JR Central engages in various businesses such as logistics, real estate, and retail, contributing significantly to the regional economy. With a commitment to safety, punctuality, and customer satisfaction, JR Central continues to play a pivotal role in Japan's transportation infrastructure.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average JR Central Duration
6h 36m
Cheapest JR Central Price
$135
JR Central frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two carry-on items that each have a total length, width, and height within 250 centimeters (length up to two meters) and are within 30 kilograms in weight are allowed on board.
Additional luggage
Oversized baggage compartments are available on a first-come, first-served basis without a prior seat reservation.
Luggage storage
Oversized baggage compartments are located in the connecting passageways of 16-car trains and are clearly marked.
Cancellation Policy
A full refund is made of fares and charges when a trip is canceled.
Refund
A full refund is made of fares and charges when a trip is canceled.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Seat reservations can be made without additional payment.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchairs with a length and height within 120 centimeters and a width within 70 centimeters are allowed on board.
Bikes
Bicycles used for cycling and sports tournaments must be disassembled and placed in bike travel bags.
Pets
Small dogs, cats, birds, or similar small animals are allowed if they are in a case within 120 cm and the combined weight of the case and animal is within 10 kilograms.
Complete guide to Kyoto
Things to do in Kyoto
Discover the best of Kyoto — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kyoto trip today.
- Must visit
Kyoto National Museum
National museum known for premodern Japanese art, Buddhist sculpture, and special exhibitions. A key institution for understanding Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
- Recommended
Kyoto Railway Museum
Large railway museum with steam locomotives, shinkansen, and interactive displays. Excellent for families and anyone interested in Japan’s transport history.
- Must visit
Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka
Atmospheric preserved lanes leading to Kiyomizu-dera, lined with traditional townhouses and stone paving. Ideal for classic Kyoto scenery and walking.
- Must visit
Gion
Kyoto’s famous geisha district of wooden machiya, teahouses, and lantern-lit alleys. Best visited in the evening for atmosphere and historic character.
- Must visit
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Scenic bamboo-lined path in Arashiyama that has become one of Kyoto’s signature modern photo spots. Go early for a calmer experience.
Kaiseki Ryori
A refined multi-course meal rooted in Kyoto court and temple traditions, showcasing seasonal ingredients, delicate technique, and elegant presentation.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Shojin Ryori
Buddhist temple cuisine built around tofu, vegetables, and seasonal produce. It is central to Kyoto's Zen heritage and often served in temple districts.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Yudofu
Soft tofu made with Kyoto's clean water, prized for its silky texture and subtle soy flavor. Common in hot pots, set meals, and temple cuisine.
Gion Sasaki
Historic Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant in Gion, known for seasonal Kyoto cuisine and refined traditional service.
Shigetsu
Elegant temple-cuisine restaurant in Arashiyama offering seasonal shojin ryori in a peaceful garden atmosphere.
Junsei
Well-known tofu restaurant near Nanzen-ji, specializing in yudofu served in a serene traditional setting.
Japanese yen (¥)
Moderate for Japan: transit is efficient and affordable, casual meals are reasonable, but hotels in central Kyoto and temple-area dining can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ¥800-1,500 for ramen, curry, or set meals.
- Mid-range
- ¥2,000-4,500 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ¥10,000+ per person for kaiseki or upscale dining.
- Coffee
- ¥400-700 for coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
No tipping is expected in Japan. Do not tip in restaurants, cafes, or taxis; excellent service is included by default.
BUS NAVI KYOTO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- ¥230
- Day pass
- ¥1,100
To the city center
Kyoto Station -> Shijo Station, Kyoto
- Distance
- 2.6 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Most Kyoto City Bus and subway services accept IC cards such as ICOCA, Suica, and PASMO. Tap in on trains; on buses, follow onboard instructions and pay when exiting.
- Kyoto City Bus no longer sells the former bus-only day pass. For unlimited city bus and subway travel, use the Subway and Bus One-day Pass.
FAQs: Trains from Matsumoto to Kyoto
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Matsumoto to Kyoto by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Kyoto, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes. You can buy tickets online for trains from Matsumoto to Kyoto, but the exact process depends on the operator and ticket type. In general, you select your date and time, choose seat options, pay, and receive either an e-ticket/QR code or details for ticket pickup.
The cheapest time to travel by train from Matsumoto to Kyoto is usually during quieter, off-peak periods. August is often a good month to find better-value tickets, and traveling midweek can also help.
The cheapest way to travel by train from Matsumoto to Kyoto is usually to choose slower services or less in-demand departure times, and book in advance when possible. If both reserved and non-reserved seating is available, non-reserved options can sometimes be cheaper. To save money, compare different times and services and book earlier when you can.
Child ticket rules depend on the operator, but in Japan a child ticket generally applies to ages 6–11, and age 12 and over is an adult ticket. Age is usually based on the child’s age on the day of travel.
Children can sometimes travel for free, but it depends on age and whether they need their own seat. In Japan, children under 6 can travel free if they don’t occupy a separate seat, and each paying adult can typically accompany up to two children under 6 for free.
Yes, most children need a ticket when traveling by train from Matsumoto to Kyoto. In Japan, ages 6–11 typically need a child ticket (often about half the adult fare), while children under 6 may travel free if they don’t occupy a separate seat.
A day trip from Matsumoto to Kyoto isn’t possible by train, as the round trip travel time is too long to fit comfortably into a single day. Plan an overnight stay instead to make the trip worthwhile.
The average train journey from Matsumoto to Kyoto takes around 5h 1m. Travel times can be longer on slower services or at busy times, so it’s worth checking options for your travel date.
Trains from Matsumoto to Kyoto usually run frequently throughout the day, with regular departures on most dates. Check the schedule for your travel date to see the exact departure times.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Matsumoto to Kyoto. On this route, the Shinkansen offers the fastest and most frequent connections.
High-speed train tickets from Matsumoto to Kyoto are typically priced higher than slower services. Costs can vary by seat type (reserved vs non-reserved), class, and the specific service you choose.
Most travelers need at least three days in Kyoto to see the main sights at a comfortable pace. If you want day trips or a slower itinerary, consider adding extra time.
You can bring luggage on the train from Matsumoto to Kyoto, but size rules may apply. On Japan’s Shinkansen, luggage up to 160 cm total dimensions (length + width + height) can be taken onboard without a reservation, while larger items may require a reservation for designated luggage space.
Japan is generally very safe, but it’s still best not to leave luggage unattended. If you need to step away briefly, keep valuables with you and leave only low-value items behind, and place bags where you can keep an eye on them when possible.
Standard-sized luggage can usually go in the overhead racks or near your seat. On Shinkansen services, oversized baggage is stored in designated areas (often behind the last row), which are typically available only when you reserve the appropriate seat/space.
There isn’t a night train on this route. Most travelers take daytime services, including high-speed trains like the Shinkansen, which make the journey fast and convenient.
Non-reserved seats are first-come, first-served seating in designated cars on services that offer them. You don’t get a seat number, so you line up at the platform markings and take any open seat once you board; if it’s busy, you may need to stand until a seat frees up.
On Japan’s Shinkansen routes, luggage is considered oversized if total dimensions (length + width + height) are 160–250 cm. Oversized items usually require a seat reservation with designated luggage space, and items over 250 cm are not allowed onboard.
Train tickets from Matsumoto to Kyoto can cost as little as $135 when booked in advance. The average ticket price is around $137, but prices vary depending on the type of train, the time of day, and whether you choose a reserved seat or a higher class.
Train services from Matsumoto to Kyoto are operated by JR East, JR Central. On this route, high-speed services are part of Japan Railways’ network.
Whether a rail pass is valid from Matsumoto to Kyoto depends on the operator and service type. In Japan, the JR Pass can be used on some Shinkansen services (such as Hikari and Kodama) but not on certain fastest services (such as Nozomi).
A rail pass can be worth it if you plan to take several long-distance train journeys during your trip. For a single journey, a normal ticket is often more cost-effective, especially if the pass doesn’t cover the fastest services you want to take.
Trains from Matsumoto to Kyoto typically depart from Matsumoto Station and arrive at Kyoto Station. In larger cities, there may be more than one station, so double-check the station name before you travel.
Suica is useful for local trains and subways, but it usually isn’t enough by itself for long-distance Shinkansen travel from Matsumoto to Kyoto. You can use Suica for local segments to and from the stations, while the Shinkansen portion typically needs its own ticket and (if you want a specific seat) a seat reservation.
You don’t always need to reserve a seat, but it’s often a good idea on busy routes or at peak times. Some services offer non-reserved seating (first-come, first-served), while reserved seats give you a specific seat number and more certainty.
Yes. Trains on this route typically have onboard toilets, including Western-style toilets on many services. Facilities are usually clean and easy to use, which helps on longer travel days or when traveling with children.
If you’re traveling at peak times, want a specific departure, want seats together, or prefer extra certainty, book in advance. If you’re flexible and traveling off-peak, you can often buy tickets closer to departure, but you’ll have fewer choices for times and seats.
Many services offer onboard Wi-Fi, but coverage and reliability can vary, especially in tunnels or at high speed. It’s usually fine for messaging and light browsing, but may not be stable enough for video calls or heavy work.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Matsumoto to Kyoto
Most Matsumoto to Kyoto trains use the Matsumoto Station to Kyoto Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Matsumoto and Kyoto train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Matsumoto
Arrival train stations in Kyoto
Which Matsumoto station do trains to Kyoto leave from?
Trains from Matsumoto to Kyoto leave from Matsumoto Station. The station is from Matsumoto city centre at 1-1-1 Fukashi, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano-ken 390-0815.
Matsumoto Station1-1-1 Fukashi, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano-ken 390-0815
City-centre transport
Getting to Matsumoto Station from Matsumoto city centre
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Matsumoto Station train station facilities and services
Matsumoto Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: The station building houses various restaurants and shops.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station building. ATMs are aTMs are available within the station building.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Matsumoto Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Matsumoto Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Matsumoto Station: The station is equipped with elevators and ramps for accessibility.
Which Kyoto station do trains from Matsumoto arrive at?
Trains from Matsumoto to Kyoto arrive at Kyoto Station. Kyoto Station is 2 miles (4 km) from Kyoto city centre.
Kyoto StationKarasuma-dōri, Shimogyō-ku, Kyoto, Japan
City-centre transport
Getting to Kyoto Station from Kyoto city centre
Kyoto Station is 3 km from Kyoto city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainJR Sagano Line Rapid Service, Sagano Line Local, Hashidate, Kinosaki, [188384] Ltd. Exp Maizuru 4, [188391] Ltd. Exp Maizuru 2 · 6m · $1 · every ~19 min
Bus205 · 7m · $1 · every ~34 min
28m
SubwayK: Karasuma · 7m · $1 · every ~16 min
Kyoto Station train station facilities and services
Kyoto Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: A wide variety of dining options are available, including The Cube Gourmet Street on the 11th floor and Kyoto Ramen Koji on the 10th floor.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the JR areas of the station. ATMs are aTMs are available throughout the station, including a 24-hour ATM at the Post Office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kyoto Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kyoto Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kyoto Station: The station is equipped with elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms to accommodate passengers with disabilities.
Most popular train connections from Matsumoto
More options for your journey from Matsumoto to Kyoto
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular train connections to Kyoto
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