- 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.
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travellers trust Omio
35+ million travellers worldwide book with Omio every year.
Authorised distributor
Book bullet trains, limited express trains and bus tickets directly through Omio.
Omio Advance
With Omio Advance, reserve your Japan train ticket before sales open.
Multilingual support
Our team is available 24/7 in 21 languages – including support through WhatsApp.
Free cancellation
Cancel your Omio Advance booking for free up to 30 days before travel.
Taking multiple trains in Japan?
Save money with the JR Pass, and enjoy unlimited train travel for 7 to 21 days.
Discover the Japan Rail PassPlan your perfect Japan trip
Pick a season and we'll build your itinerary in under 2 minutes
Free to use · No sign-up required · English only
Omio Japan Rail Pass Calculator
You are traveling around Japan and want to know if the Japan Rail Pass is worth it?
Our Japan Rail Pass Calculator compares JR Pass prices versus buying individual train tickets, so you can see exactly how much you'll save on your journey
Live departures
Nara to Kyoto train times
The table below shows live departures for Nara to Kyoto trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4:48 AM Nara Station | 0h56 | 5:44 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:22 AM Nara Station | 1h00 | 6:22 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:46 AM Nara Station | 1h02 | 6:48 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:05 AM Nara Station | 1h03 | 7:08 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:19 AM Nara Station | 1h04 | 7:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:29 AM Nara Station | 0h59 | 7:28 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:45 AM Nara Station | 0h57 | 7:42 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:54 AM Nara Station | 1h01 | 7:55 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:01 AM Nara Station | 1h12 | 8:13 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:13 AM Nara Station | 0h53 | 8:06 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:16 AM Nara Station | 1h09 | 8:25 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:26 AM Nara Station | 0h53 | 8:19 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:32 AM Nara Station | 0h58 | 8:30 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:45 AM Nara Station | 1h06 | 8:51 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:05 AM Nara Station | 1h03 | 9:08 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:25 AM Nara Station | 1h02 | 9:27 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:39 AM Nara Station | 1h03 | 9:42 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:57 AM Nara Station | 0h55 | 9:52 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:26 AM Nara Station | 1h06 | 10:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:37 AM Nara Station | 0h48 | 10:25 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:53 AM Nara Station | 1h09 | 11:02 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:07 AM Nara Station | 0h48 | 10:55 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:24 AM Nara Station | 1h08 | 11:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:37 AM Nara Station | 0h48 | 11:25 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:54 AM Nara Station | 1h08 | 12:02 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:07 AM Nara Station | 0h48 | 11:55 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:24 AM Nara Station | 1h08 | 12:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:37 AM Nara Station | 0h48 | 12:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:50 AM Nara Station | 1h12 | 1:02 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:07 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 12:55 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:24 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 1:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:37 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 1:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:50 PM Nara Station | 1h12 | 2:02 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:07 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 1:55 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:24 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 2:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:37 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 2:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:50 PM Nara Station | 1h12 | 3:02 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:07 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 2:55 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:24 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 3:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:37 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 3:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:50 PM Nara Station | 1h12 | 4:02 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:07 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 3:55 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:24 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 4:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:37 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 4:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:54 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 5:02 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:07 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 4:55 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:24 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 5:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:37 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 5:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:54 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 6:02 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:07 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 5:55 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:20 PM Nara Station | 1h12 | 6:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:37 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 6:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:50 PM Nara Station | 1h06 | 6:56 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:10 PM Nara Station | 1h08 | 7:18 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:19 PM Nara Station | 1h13 | 7:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:37 PM Nara Station | 0h48 | 7:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:50 PM Nara Station | 1h03 | 7:53 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:10 PM Nara Station | 1h10 | 8:20 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:18 PM Nara Station | 0h56 | 8:14 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:50 PM Nara Station | 1h02 | 8:52 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:20 PM Nara Station | 0h59 | 9:19 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:50 PM Nara Station | 1h01 | 9:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:20 PM Nara Station | 0h59 | 10:19 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:50 PM Nara Station | 1h01 | 10:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:14 PM Nara Station | 0h59 | 11:13 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:42 PM Nara Station | 0h58 | 11:40 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Journey information
Overview: Train from Nara to Kyoto
JapanJapan
Take a train from Nara to Kyoto and enjoy the approximately 23 miles (38 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 10:50. The fastest train covers the 23 miles (38 km) distance in 48m.
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
Distance 23 miles (38 km) |
Average train duration 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $5 (€4) |
Fastest train 48m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 10:50 AM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
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 Nara to Kyoto
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nara 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 Nara 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 way to travel by train from Nara 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 Nara 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.
Yes, a day trip from Nara to Kyoto is possible by train, with journey times of around 48m each way. That said, Kyoto has a lot to see, so an overnight stay often makes for a more relaxed visit.
The average train journey from Nara to Kyoto takes around 48m. Travel times can be longer on slower services or at busy times, so it’s worth checking options for your travel date.
Trains from Nara 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 Nara to Kyoto. On this route, the Shinkansen offers the fastest and most frequent connections.
High-speed train tickets from Nara 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 Nara 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 Nara to Kyoto can cost as little as $5 (€4) when booked in advance. The average ticket price is around $5 (€4), 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 Nara to Kyoto are operated by JR West. On this route, high-speed services are part of Japan Railways’ network.
Whether a rail pass is valid from Nara 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 Nara to Kyoto typically depart from Nara 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 Nara 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 Nara to Kyoto
Most Nara to Kyoto trains use the Nara Station to Kyoto Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Nara and Kyoto train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Nara
Arrival train stations in Kyoto
Nara Station1 Sanjohonmachi, Nara, 630-8122, Japan
Nara Station train station facilities and services
Nara Station has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nara Station: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Which Kyoto station do trains from Nara arrive at?
Trains from Nara 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.
More options for your journey from Nara to Kyoto
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kyoto and Nara
Most popular train connections to Kyoto
HomeTrainsTrains in JapanTrain Times to KyotoNara to Kyoto Train Times | Book Cheap Tickets with Omio
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
