Nagakute to Kyoto train with JR Central

Information about the Nagakute to Kyoto train route

The train from Nagakute to Kyoto is a practical and scenic way to travel between Aichi Prefecture and one of Japan's most celebrated cultural cities. The journey begins at Nagakute Kosenjō Station, located at Yokomichi, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1118, a station served by the Linimo (Nagoya Higashi Yamate Line), the world's first magnetically levitated urban transit system to operate commercially. From Nagakute Kosenjō, travelers head toward Nagoya, where they connect to the Tokaido Shinkansen for the westward leg of the journey into Kyoto Station, located at Higashishiokoji Kamadacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City 600-8216.

This route combines two very different but equally impressive forms of rail travel: the futuristic, driverless Linimo and the high-speed precision of the Shinkansen. For rail enthusiasts and first-time visitors to Japan alike, it is a genuinely memorable combination.

Nagakute itself is best known as the home of Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (Moricoro Park), a vast green space with cycling paths, lawns, and the iconic setting used in the Studio Ghibli film My Neighbor Totoro. The area also sits close to Toyota Commemorative Museum and several lesser-visited Shinto shrines on the eastern fringe of the Nagoya metropolitan area, making it a rewarding starting point before continuing on to Kyoto.

We recommend using the JR Pass for traveling in trains all around Japan to save more money if you plan to do many trips. You can check the correct prices for every station or shinkansen connection in Omio's JR Pass information.

Nagakute to Kyoto by train: what to expect on board

The Nagakute to Kyoto train journey unfolds in two distinct stages, each with its own character and experience.

The Linimo from Nagakute Kosenjō

The first leg on the Linimo is short but worth appreciating in its own right. This driverless maglev train glides almost silently above its guideway, offering elevated views across the suburban eastern edge of Nagoya. Carriages are clean, modern, and rarely crowded outside of peak commuting hours. Seats are available, though this portion of the journey is brief enough that many passengers stand. The Linimo connects through to Fujigaoka Station, where you transfer to the Nagoya Municipal Subway's Higashiyama Line toward central Nagoya.

The Tokaido Shinkansen from Nagoya

Once you reach Nagoya Station, the journey shifts up dramatically in pace and comfort. The Tokaido Shinkansen departs from the dedicated Shinkansen platforms at Nagoya Station and whisks passengers westward to Kyoto at high speed.

• Hikari services stop at Nagoya and are fully covered by the JR Pass, the recommended option for pass holders.
• Nozomi services are faster but are not covered by the JR Pass, so ticketed travelers should be aware of the difference when booking.

Best seats for the view

On the Shinkansen leg from Nagoya to Kyoto, the route passes through a varied landscape of plains, rivers, and low mountain ranges. While the iconic Mount Fuji views are behind you at this stage of the journey, the scenery through Shiga Prefecture approaching Kyoto, particularly around Lake Biwa, is quietly beautiful, especially in autumn and winter.

• Sit on the left-hand side of the train (A or B window seats) when traveling from Nagoya toward Kyoto for the best glimpses of Lake Biwa on clear days.

Best time of year to travel

• Spring (late March to early May): Cherry blossom season transforms Kyoto into something extraordinary. The route from Nagakute is manageable even during peak season, though Shinkansen seats between Nagoya and Kyoto fill up quickly, reserve early.
• Autumn (mid-October to late November): The maple and ginkgo foliage around Kyoto's temple districts is at its finest. One of the most rewarding times to make this trip.
• Winter (December to February): Quieter crowds, crisp air, and occasional dustings of snow on Kyoto's temple rooftops. A surprisingly atmospheric time to visit.
• Summer (July to August): Kyoto in summer is hot and humid. The Gion Matsuri festival in July draws large crowds, making advance planning essential.

Getting to Kyoto and beyond

Arriving at Kyoto Station opens up an exceptional range of onward connections, both within the city and across the wider Kansai region and beyond.

Within Kyoto

Kyoto Station serves as the city's main transit hub. The Karasuma subway line departs from directly beneath the station, connecting quickly to central neighborhoods including Shijo and Kyoto City Hall. The city's extensive bus network fans out from the station's north side, reaching major sightseeing areas such as Arashiyama, Higashiyama, Kinkakuji, and Fushimi Inari. A one-day bus pass is available near the terminal and is well worth considering if you plan to cover several districts in a single day.

Day trips and regional connections

Kyoto's position on the Tokaido Shinkansen and the broader JR network makes it a natural base for regional exploration:

• Osaka, around 15 minutes by Shinkansen, or approximately 30 minutes via the more affordable Hankyu or Keihan private railways.
• Nara, approximately 45 minutes by the Kintetsu Nara Line from Kyoto Station, ideal for a half-day trip to see the famous deer park and Todai-ji temple.
• Hiroshima, reachable in roughly one hour by Nozomi (JR Pass holders should opt for the Hikari or Sakura services instead).
• Kobe, around 30 minutes by Shinkansen to Shin-Kobe, offering a more relaxed alternative to Osaka's bustle.

Travelers continuing further west toward Hakata or planning a return trip through the Chukyo region will find Kyoto a convenient and well-positioned hub throughout their itinerary.

What to expect when you arrive in Kyoto

Kyoto Station at Higashishiokoji Kamadacho, Shimogyo-ku is one of the most architecturally striking rail stations in Japan. Designed by Hiroshi Hara and completed in 1997, the building features a sweeping glass-and-steel atrium, open terraced staircases, and a rooftop sky garden that offers panoramic views over the city toward the Higashiyama mountains. If you have a few minutes to spare on arrival, the view from the upper levels is well worth the short detour.

Practical information at the station

• Tourist information: The Kyoto Tourist Information Center is located on the second floor of the station building and provides maps, transport guidance, and multilingual assistance, a useful first stop if this is your first visit to the city.
• Luggage storage: Coin lockers in a range of sizes are available throughout the station. For oversized bags, luggage forwarding services (takuhaibin) allow you to send bags directly to your hotel or onward destination, particularly handy if you plan to explore on foot before checking in.
• Connectivity and cash: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. For cash, Japan Post and 7-Eleven ATMs inside the building reliably accept international cards.

Arriving in Kyoto for the first time

Kyoto rewards a slower, more considered approach than many Japanese cities. The major sightseeing districts, Arashiyama, Higashiyama, Gion, Fushimi, and Kinkakuji, are spread across the city, and grouping visits by neighborhood helps avoid unnecessary backtracking. Most first-time visitors find that two to three days is the minimum needed to cover the highlights comfortably.

The illuminated Kyoto Tower directly opposite the station's north exit is a useful landmark for orienting yourself on arrival, particularly after dark. Taxis are available from the central and Hachijo exits, and ride-hailing apps work well in the city as a flexible alternative to fixed bus routes.