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Discover the Japan Rail PassThe cheapest and fastest trains from Tokyo to Kyoto
Showing times and prices for Jul 28
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$79
Fastest journey
2 h 7 m
Average duration
2 h 8 m
Trains per day
119
Distance
371 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast trains
Of the 119 trains that leave Tokyo for Kyoto on Tue, Jul 28, 119 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jul 28 the direct trains cover the 371 km distance in an average of 2 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 7 m .
On Tue, Jul 28 the slowest trains will take 2 h 9 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
Hikari 6617:30 PM2h34Tokyo Station10:04 PMKyoto Station$761One-way0 transfers- Hikari 6535:33 PM2h39Tokyo Station8:12 PMKyoto Station$761One-way0 transfers
- Hikari 6514:33 PM2h39Tokyo Station7:12 PMKyoto Station$761One-way0 transfers
- Hikari 6316:21 AM2h45Tokyo Station9:06 AMKyoto Station$761One-way0 transfers
- Hikari 6556:03 PM2h51Tokyo Station8:54 PMKyoto Station$761One-way0 transfers
- Nozomi 2939:24 PM2h07Tokyo Station11:31 PMKyoto Station$811One-way0 transfers
- Nozomi 16:00 AM2h08Tokyo Station8:08 AMKyoto Station$811One-way0 transfers
- Nozomi 36:15 AM2h09Tokyo Station8:24 AMKyoto Station$811One-way0 transfers
- Nozomi 958:54 PM2h09Tokyo Station11:03 PMKyoto Station$811One-way0 transfers
- Nozomi 2316:42 AM2h09Tokyo Station8:51 AMKyoto Station$811One-way0 transfers
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Tokyo to Kyoto
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Tokyo to Kyoto among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 39m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $35, and a flight costs an average of $34.
Distance: 230 miles (371 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$80 Average price | $51 Average price Cheapest | $82 Average price |
3h 54m Average total duration 3h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 39m Average total duration Fastest 2h 39m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto is a bus with an average price of $51 (€51).
This is compared to other travel options from Tokyo to Kyoto:
A bus is $28 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Tokyo to Kyoto costing on average $80 (€80).
A bus is $30 (€30) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Tokyo to Kyoto costing on average $82 (€82).
The fastest way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 39m.
Other travel options to Kyoto take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 21m.
Train takes on average 3h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Tokyo to Kyoto among Omio's users.
Live departures
Tokyo to Kyoto train times
The table below shows live departures for Tokyo to Kyoto trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nozomi 1 | 6:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h08 | 8:08 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 3 | 6:15 AM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 8:24 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 631 | 6:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h45 | 9:06 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 5 | 6:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:45 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 231 | 6:42 AM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 8:51 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 7 | 6:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 9:01 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 803 | 6:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 10:34 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 233 | 7:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:12 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 701 | 7:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 9:37 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 9 | 7:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 235 | 7:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 11 | 7:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 9:44 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 633 | 7:36 AM Tokyo Station | 2h36 | 10:12 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 237 | 7:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:50 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 13 | 7:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 10:00 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 807 | 7:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 11:34 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 61 | 8:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 10:15 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 703 | 8:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 10:37 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 15 | 8:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 239 | 8:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 17 | 8:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 10:44 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 635 | 8:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 11:12 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 241 | 8:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:50 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 63 | 8:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 11:00 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 811 | 8:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 12:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 243 | 9:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 11:15 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 705 | 9:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 11:37 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 245 | 9:09 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 11:21 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 19 | 9:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 247 | 9:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 21 | 9:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 11:44 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 637 | 9:36 AM Tokyo Station | 2h36 | 12:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 249 | 9:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:50 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 65 | 9:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 12:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 815 | 9:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 1:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 251 | 10:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 12:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 707 | 10:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 12:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 23 | 10:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 12:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 253 | 10:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 12:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 25 | 10:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 12:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 639 | 10:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 1:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 67 | 10:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 1:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 819 | 10:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 2:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 255 | 11:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 1:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 709 | 11:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 1:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 27 | 11:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 1:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 29 | 11:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 1:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 641 | 11:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 2:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 69 | 11:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 2:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 823 | 11:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 3:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 257 | 12:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 2:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 711 | 12:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 2:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 31 | 12:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 2:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 33 | 12:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 2:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 643 | 12:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 3:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 71 | 12:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 3:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 827 | 12:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 4:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 259 | 1:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 3:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 713 | 1:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 3:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 35 | 1:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 3:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 37 | 1:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 3:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 645 | 1:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 4:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 73 | 1:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 4:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 831 | 1:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 5:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 261 | 2:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 4:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 715 | 2:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 4:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 39 | 2:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 4:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 41 | 2:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 4:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 647 | 2:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 5:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 75 | 2:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 5:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 835 | 2:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 6:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 263 | 3:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 5:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 717 | 3:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 5:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 43 | 3:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 5:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 45 | 3:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 5:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 649 | 3:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 6:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 265 | 3:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 5:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 77 | 3:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 6:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 839 | 3:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 7:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 267 | 4:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 6:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 719 | 4:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 6:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 47 | 4:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 6:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 49 | 4:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 6:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 651 | 4:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 7:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 269 | 4:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 6:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 51 | 4:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 7:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 271 | 5:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 7:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 721 | 5:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 7:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 53 | 5:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 7:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 273 | 5:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 7:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 55 | 5:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 7:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 653 | 5:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 8:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 275 | 5:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 7:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 79 | 5:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 277 | 6:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 8:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 655 | 6:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h51 | 8:54 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 57 | 6:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 8:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 279 | 6:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 8:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 81 | 6:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 8:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 657 | 6:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 9:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 281 | 6:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 59 | 6:51 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 9:06 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 283 | 7:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 9:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 659 | 7:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h46 | 9:49 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 83 | 7:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:21 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 85 | 7:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 661 | 7:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 10:04 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 87 | 7:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 9:52 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 285 | 7:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 10:01 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 855 | 7:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h28 | 11:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 89 | 8:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 10:13 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 287 | 8:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 10:21 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 663 | 8:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h49 | 11:01 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 91 | 8:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h10 | 10:31 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 93 | 8:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h10 | 10:49 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 95 | 8:54 PM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 11:03 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 289 | 9:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:14 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 291 | 9:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h10 | 11:22 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 293 | 9:24 PM Tokyo Station | 2h07 | 11:31 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 29 | |||||
| Nozomi 1 | 6:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h08 | 8:08 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 3 | 6:15 AM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 8:24 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 631 | 6:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h45 | 9:06 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 5 | 6:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:45 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 231 | 6:42 AM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 8:51 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 7 | 6:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 9:01 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 803 | 6:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 10:34 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 233 | 7:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:12 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 701 | 7:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 9:37 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 9 | 7:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 235 | 7:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 11 | 7:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 9:44 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 633 | 7:36 AM Tokyo Station | 2h36 | 10:12 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 237 | 7:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:50 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 13 | 7:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 10:00 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 807 | 7:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 11:34 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 61 | 8:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 10:15 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 703 | 8:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 10:37 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 15 | 8:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 239 | 8:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 17 | 8:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 10:44 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 635 | 8:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 11:12 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 241 | 8:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:50 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 63 | 8:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 11:00 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 811 | 8:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 12:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 243 | 9:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 11:15 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 705 | 9:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 11:37 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 245 | 9:09 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 11:21 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 19 | 9:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 247 | 9:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:32 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 21 | 9:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 11:44 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 637 | 9:36 AM Tokyo Station | 2h36 | 12:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 249 | 9:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:50 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 65 | 9:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 12:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 815 | 9:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 1:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 251 | 10:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 12:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 707 | 10:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 12:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 23 | 10:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 12:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 253 | 10:21 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 12:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 25 | 10:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 12:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 639 | 10:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 1:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 67 | 10:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 1:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 819 | 10:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 2:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 255 | 11:00 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 1:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 709 | 11:03 AM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 1:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 27 | 11:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 1:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 29 | 11:30 AM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 1:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 641 | 11:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 2:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 69 | 11:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 2:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 823 | 11:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 3:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 257 | 12:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 2:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 711 | 12:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 2:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 31 | 12:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 2:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 33 | 12:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 2:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 643 | 12:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 3:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 71 | 12:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 3:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 827 | 12:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 4:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 259 | 1:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 3:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 713 | 1:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 3:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 35 | 1:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 3:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 37 | 1:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 3:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 645 | 1:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 4:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 73 | 1:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 4:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 831 | 1:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 5:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 261 | 2:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 4:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 715 | 2:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 4:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 39 | 2:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 4:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 41 | 2:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 4:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 647 | 2:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 5:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 75 | 2:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 5:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 835 | 2:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 6:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 263 | 3:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 5:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 717 | 3:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 5:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 43 | 3:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 5:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 45 | 3:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 5:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 649 | 3:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 6:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 265 | 3:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 5:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 77 | 3:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 6:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 839 | 3:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 7:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 267 | 4:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 6:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 719 | 4:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 6:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 47 | 4:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 6:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 49 | 4:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 6:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 651 | 4:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 7:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 269 | 4:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 6:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 51 | 4:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 7:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 271 | 5:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 7:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 721 | 5:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 7:37 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 53 | 5:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 7:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 273 | 5:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 7:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 55 | 5:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 7:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 653 | 5:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 8:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 275 | 5:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 7:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 79 | 5:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 277 | 6:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 8:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 655 | 6:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h51 | 8:54 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 57 | 6:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 8:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 279 | 6:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 8:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 81 | 6:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h14 | 8:44 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 657 | 6:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h39 | 9:12 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 281 | 6:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:51 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 59 | 6:51 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 9:06 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 283 | 7:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 9:15 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 659 | 7:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h46 | 9:49 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 83 | 7:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:21 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 85 | 7:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 9:32 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 661 | 7:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h34 | 10:04 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 87 | 7:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 9:52 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 285 | 7:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 10:01 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Kodama 855 | 7:57 PM Tokyo Station | 3h28 | 11:25 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 89 | 8:00 PM Tokyo Station | 2h13 | 10:13 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 287 | 8:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 10:21 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Hikari 663 | 8:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h49 | 11:01 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 91 | 8:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h10 | 10:31 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 93 | 8:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h10 | 10:49 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 95 | 8:54 PM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 11:03 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 289 | 9:03 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:14 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 291 | 9:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h10 | 11:22 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Nozomi 293 | 9:24 PM Tokyo Station | 2h07 | 11:31 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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Tokyo to Kyoto by trainHow to Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto by Train
By Claire Martin
Claire MartinTravel Journalist and Videomaker
I’m a full-time travel journalist, blogger, and videomaker who specializes in train and ferry travel around Europe.
If you’re visiting Japan, you’ll probably be traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto by rail. Japanese bullet trains whisk you through the country in just over two hours, leaving the megacity capital and skirting along the central Japanese coastline before arriving in the cultural capital of Kyoto. I took this train on my Japan trip last year, so here’s what you need to know!
Image of Tokyo Station from the Marunouchi exit
Route overview
The distance between the two cities is 450 km (280 miles). Japan is famous for the high-speed Shinkansen train, which reaches maximum speeds of up to 320 km (200 miles). The route leaves Tokyo and passes through Shizuoka, Hamamatsu and Nagoya. It continues along the Japanese coastline, turning inland and passing by Lake Biwa before stopping at Kyoto.
Transportation experience
I booked my Tokyo to Kyoto train ticket on the Omio app. Omio is a must-have travel app for buying any train, bus, ferry and plane tickets. All I needed to do was input my destinations and preferred time before selecting my train and making a secure payment. I then received my ticket in my app and by email straight away.
Departure station
I took the train from Shinagawa Station, which sits to the south of Tokyo city center. I took the Tōkaidō Line, which took 10 minutes, as I was staying close to the Imperial Palace. The station is large and efficient, with plenty of vending machines serving food and outlets and shopping at ecute Shinagawa. Trains also leave from Tokyo Station.
Arrival station
Kyoto Station is the city’s main railway hub, and it’s a huge railway complex. I took the 207 City Bus to where I was staying near Shijo Horikawa. Depending on where you’re staying, you might be able to walk, but if not, there is plenty of public transport in Kyoto.
Schedule & frequency
There are up to 150 trains per day running between the two cities. In peak hours, one leaves every few minutes. The first train leaves at around 6:00 am and arrives in Kyoto just after 8:00 am. The last direct train leaves Tokyo just before 9:30 pm and arrives at 11:30 pm. I took a train at around 9:30 am, which took just over two hours and arrived in Kyoto a little after 11:30 am.
Onboard experience & services
The inside of my train was spotlessly clean. Seats were comfortable, with a tray table and seat pocket. I had a power outlet and plenty of legroom, and there were high-tech toilets at either end of the carriage. The train was very quiet, which is normal in Japan. Loud conversations or talking on the phone is not socially acceptable. I loved looking out of my window seat at the cities and coastline as we made our way to Kyoto!
Ticketing advice & budget breakdown
I paid €70 for my journey by train from Tokyo to Kyoto. The last-minute fare included a 72-hour rail pass, which I used to get to the departure station. In the future, I’d try to book further in advance to get a cheaper ticket, but I only decided I wanted to go to Kyoto the day before.
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €70 |
| Food & drinks | €0 |
| Travel to departure station | €0 |
| Travel from arrival station | €1.25 |
| Total | € 71.25 |
Top tips & recommendations
- Book your tickets in advance, as they can rise closer to the time. Think about what station you want to depart from. I chose Shinagawa because I was in the area, but Tokyo is most convenient.
- Sit on the left side to enjoy ocean views for part of the journey.
- Remember your headphones and delay any loud conversations until you are off the train.
- Grab some food from a station vending machine, as it’s a tradition in Japan.
Conclusion
One of Japan’s best assets is its trains, and this is one of its signature journeys. The Shinkansen whizzes through the country’s landscapes and cities. It’s a really efficient and clean way to get from A to B and, in my opinion, is the best way to travel in Japan.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Tokyo to Kyoto
JapanJapan
Trains from Tokyo to Kyoto run on average 124 times per day, taking around 3h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $76 (€76) but you can travel from only $34 (€34) by flight.
There are 124 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 21:44. The fastest train covers the 230 miles (371 km) distance in 2h 7m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $34 (€34)
Distance 230 miles (371 km) |
Average train duration 3h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $76 (€76) |
Trains per day 124 |
Direct trains 124 |
Fastest train 2h 7m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 9:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $34 (€34)
Train companies: JR Central from Tokyo to Kyoto trainsJR Central trains will get you between Tokyo and Kyoto from $34 (€34). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
2h 7m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€76)
JR Central frequency
241 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.
Information about the Tokyo to Kyoto train route
The Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train is one of the most iconic rail journeys in the world, and one of the most practical. Connecting two of Japan's most visited cities, the Tokaido Shinkansen runs between Tokyo Station (1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005) and Kyoto Station (Higashishiokoji Kamadacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 600-8216) with remarkable speed and precision. This route is a cornerstone of any Japan itinerary, placing you at the heart of the country's most celebrated cultural landmarks within a single, effortless journey.
Along the way, the landscape shifts dramatically, from Tokyo's dense urban sprawl to the open plains of Shizuoka, with the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Fuji appearing on clear days, before the train eases into the quieter, temple-dotted surrounds of Kyoto. Few train journeys anywhere in the world offer this combination of speed, scenery, and cultural contrast.
For most travelers, the Hikari Shinkansen service strikes the best balance between speed and cost, particularly for those using a JR Pass. The Nozomi is faster but not covered by the standard JR Pass, while the Kodama stops at every station and is best suited to those in no particular hurry.
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.
Tokyo to Kyoto by train: what to expect on board
Traveling on the Tokaido Shinkansen is a genuinely comfortable experience, setting a standard that few rail networks in the world can match. Trains depart from Tokyo Station's dedicated Shinkansen platforms (tracks 14–19), clearly marked in English and easily accessible from the central concourse. Punctuality is essentially guaranteed, delays of even a few minutes are considered exceptional on this network.
Seating options
- Ordinary (Standard) Class, comfortable, spacious seats with ample legroom by any international standard. More than adequate for the journey.
- Green Car (First Class), wider seats, greater recline, and a noticeably quieter atmosphere. A worthwhile upgrade for those wanting extra comfort.
- Gran Class, available on select services, offering premium seats, attentive service, and meal options. A genuinely luxurious way to travel if your budget allows.
Best seats for the view
One of the highlights of the Tokyo to Kyoto shinkansen is the opportunity to see Mount Fuji on a clear day, a moment that many travelers consider a trip highlight in itself. To make the most of it:
- Sit on the right-hand side of the train (seats marked D or E at the window) when traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto.
- The best views appear roughly 40 to 50 minutes into the journey, in the area around Shin-Fuji and Shizuoka.
- October through February offers the clearest skies and the best chance of seeing the mountain's snow-capped peak in sharp relief. Morning departures on these days are particularly rewarding.
On-board experience
The Shinkansen is quiet, immaculately clean, and runs with clockwork precision. A trolley service passes through the carriages offering drinks, snacks, and hot meals. That said, picking up an ekiben, a station bento box, at Tokyo Station before boarding is a deeply enjoyable ritual and a far more memorable dining experience. The station's basement food halls and platform kiosks offer an impressive range of regional bento options worth exploring before departure.
Best time of year to travel on the tokyo to kyoto bullet train
- Spring (late March to early May): Cherry blossom season transforms Kyoto into something extraordinary, but this is also the busiest period on the network. Booking seats well in advance is essential.
- Autumn (mid-October to late November): Autumn foliage in Kyoto rivals the spring blossoms for sheer beauty. Demand on trains is similarly high, plan ahead.
- Winter (December to February): Fewer crowds, more competitive accommodation rates, and the clearest conditions for spotting Mount Fuji en route. An underrated time to make this journey.
- Summer (July to August): Hot, humid, and busy. The Obon holiday period in mid-August sees exceptionally high demand on the Tokyo to Kyoto shinkansen, reservations are strongly advised.
Getting to Kyoto and beyond
Kyoto Station is one of Japan's most well-connected transport hubs, making onward travel to virtually any part of the city or surrounding region entirely straightforward from the moment you step off the train.
Within Kyoto
The station sits at the southern edge of the city, with excellent connections into the center and beyond:
- Kyoto City Bus, the most flexible way to reach the major temple and shrine districts. A one-day or two-day bus pass is available from the terminal on the station's north (Karasuma) side and represents excellent value for sightseeing-heavy days.
- Karasuma Subway Line, departs directly from beneath the station, connecting quickly to central stops such as Shijo and Karasuma Oike.
- Kintetsu Line, useful for reaching Nara directly from Kyoto Station without changing trains.
- Taxis, readily available outside both the central and Hachijo exits. Efficient for point-to-point journeys, though slower during morning and evening rush hours.
Day trips and regional connections
Kyoto's position on the Tokaido Shinkansen makes it an ideal base for wider exploration across the Kansai region and beyond:
- Osaka, roughly 15 minutes by Shinkansen, or around 30 to 40 minutes by the more affordable Hankyu or Keihan private railways, making it an easy and popular day trip.
- Nara, approximately 45 minutes via the Kintetsu Nara Line from Kyoto Station, with no transfer required.
- Hiroshima, around one hour by Nozomi Shinkansen (JR Pass holders should use the Hikari or Sakura services, which add only a short amount of time to the journey).
- Kobe, around 30 minutes by Shinkansen to Shin-Kobe Station.
- Kanazawa, reachable via the Thunderbird limited express service, a scenic journey worth considering for those exploring the Hokuriku region.
If you are continuing westward toward Hiroshima, Hakata (Fukuoka), or further afield, your JR Pass remains valid across all of these Shinkansen connections, making Kyoto an ideal staging point for a broader journey through Japan. You can search and compare all of these onward connections easily through Omio, keeping your entire itinerary in one place.
What to expect when you arrive in Kyoto
Kyoto Station (Higashishiokoji Kamadacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 600-8216) is far more than a functional transport hub, it is a destination in its own right. The building is a striking piece of contemporary architecture: a vast steel-and-glass structure designed by Hiroshi Hara, featuring a soaring central atrium, an open-air rooftop sky garden, and dramatic cascading staircases that draw visitors even outside of travel hours. If this is your first arrival, allow yourself a few extra minutes simply to take in the scale of the space before heading out into the city.
Practical information at the station
- Tourist information: The Kyoto Tourist Information Center is located on the second floor of the station building, offering maps, transport guidance, and sightseeing recommendations in English and several other languages. An excellent first stop for orientation.
- Luggage storage: Coin lockers in multiple sizes are available throughout the station. For larger or heavier bags, takuhaibin (luggage forwarding) services allow you to send your suitcase directly to your next accommodation or to Kansai International Airport, particularly useful if you want to explore the city freely before checking in.
- Currency and connectivity: Japan Post and 7-Eleven ATMs inside the station reliably accept international cards. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station building, with no registration required on most networks.
- Shopping and dining: The station complex includes department store Isetan, a wide range of restaurants across multiple floors, and dedicated food hall areas ideal for picking up regional Kyoto specialties to enjoy later.
Arriving in Kyoto for the first time
Unlike Tokyo or Osaka, Kyoto rewards a deliberate, unhurried pace. The city's layout is roughly grid-based, but its most celebrated areas, Arashiyama, Higashiyama, Fushimi, and Gion, are spread across distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and atmosphere. First-time visitors consistently find it helpful to plan sightseeing by district rather than attempting to cover the city at random, reducing unnecessary transit time and allowing each area to be properly appreciated.
The illuminated Kyoto Tower, directly opposite the station's north (Karasuma) exit, serves as an immediately recognizable landmark upon arrival, a useful point of orientation before heading to your accommodation or beginning your first day of exploration. For those arriving in the evening, the tower's reflection across the surrounding streets makes for one of the more memorable first impressions of the city.
FAQs: Trains from Tokyo to Kyoto
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo to Kyoto is usually during quieter, off-peak periods. March is often a good month to find better-value tickets, and traveling midweek can also help.
The cheapest way to travel by train from Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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.
Yes, there are direct trains from Tokyo to Kyoto. On this route, many services run without any changes, making it an easy trip by rail.
The average train journey from Tokyo to Kyoto takes around 2h 7m. Travel times can be longer on slower services or at busy times, so it’s worth checking options for your travel date.
Trains from Tokyo 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 Tokyo to Kyoto. On this route, the Shinkansen offers the fastest and most frequent connections.
High-speed train tickets from Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo to Kyoto can cost as little as $76 (€76) when booked in advance. The average ticket price is around $80 (€80), 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 Tokyo to Kyoto are operated by JR Central. On this route, high-speed services are part of Japan Railways’ network.
Whether a rail pass is valid from Tokyo 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 Tokyo to Kyoto typically depart from Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station and arrive at Kyoto Station, Shin-Osaka 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo to Kyoto
Most Tokyo to Kyoto trains use the Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Tokyo and Kyoto train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Tokyo
Arrival train stations in Kyoto
Which Tokyo station do trains to Kyoto leave from?
Trains from Tokyo to Kyoto leave from Tokyo Station. The station is from Tokyo city centre at 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
Tokyo Station1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
City-centre transport
Getting to Tokyo Station from Tokyo city centre
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Tokyo Station train station facilities and services
Tokyo Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Numerous dining options, including Tokyo Ramen Street, Tokyo Sweets Land, and various cafes and restaurants.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in certain areas; some cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. ATMs are multiple ATMs available, including Japan Post Bank ATMs and other major banks.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tokyo Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tokyo Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tokyo Station: Elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms available; nursing rooms and baby changing facilities provided.
Which Kyoto station do trains from Tokyo arrive at?
Trains from Tokyo to Kyoto most often arrive at Kyoto Station. Some services arrive at Shin-Osaka Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Kyoto arrival station.
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 Tokyo
More options for your journey from Tokyo to Kyoto
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kyoto and Tokyo
Most popular train connections to Kyoto
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