- Must visit
Kyoto National Museum
Major national museum with important Japanese art, archaeology, and rotating special exhibitions near Higashiyama.


Save money with the JR Pass, and enjoy unlimited train travel for 7 to 21 days.
Discover the Japan Rail PassCheapest price
$95
Average price
$95
Fastest journey
2 h 7 m
Average duration
2 h 8 m
Trains per day
144
Distance
371 km
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 $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
Of the 144 trains that leave Tokyo for Kyoto on Wed, Jun 03, 144 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 03 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 Wed, Jun 03 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.
Nozomi 27
Nozomi 49
Nozomi 3
Nozomi 53
Nozomi 61
Nozomi 293
Nozomi 1
Nozomi 517
Nozomi 3
Nozomi 95Pick a season and we'll build your itinerary in under 2 minutes
Free to use · No sign-up required · English only
Start with a suggested trip, or create your own to compare ticket prices and JR Pass costs
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 $45. 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 $45, and a flight costs an average of $52.
Distance: 230 miles (371 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$100 Average price | $73 Average price Cheapest | $104 Average price |
3h 54m Average total duration 3h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 52m Average total duration 3h 22m 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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Tokyo to Kyoto:
A bus is $27 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Tokyo to Kyoto costing on average $100 (€81).
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Tokyo to Kyoto costing on average $104 (€84).
Other travel options to Kyoto take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 22m.
Train takes on average 3h 24m.
The table below shows live departures for Tokyo to Kyoto trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| 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 113 | 6:24 AM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 8:33 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 5 | 6:33 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:45 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 115 | 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 117 | 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 315 | 7:09 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:21 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 329 | 8:09 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 10:21 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 15 | 8:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 331 | 8:18 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:29 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 | |
Nozomi 339 | 8:51 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 11:06 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Kodama 811 | 8:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 12:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 135 | 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 343 | 9:18 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:29 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 | |
Nozomi 353 | 9:54 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 12:09 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 361 | 10:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 12:50 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 67 | 10:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 1:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 369 | 10:54 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 1:09 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 373 | 11:18 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 1:29 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 379 | 11:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 1:51 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 393 | 12:24 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 2:39 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 397 | 12:42 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 2:57 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 407 | 1:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 3:32 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 413 | 1:42 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 3:57 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 425 | 2:24 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 4:39 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 427 | 2:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 4:51 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 439 | 3:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 5:32 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 449 | 4:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 6:21 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 47 | 4:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 6:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 453 | 4:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 6:32 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 463 | 5:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 7:21 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 475 | 6:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:21 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 493 | 7:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:45 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 507 | 8:30 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 10:42 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 517 | 9:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h08 | 11:29 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 293 | 9:24 PM Tokyo Station | 2h07 | 11:31 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, June 4 | |||||
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 307 | 6:24 AM Tokyo Station | 2h09 | 8:33 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 117 | 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 315 | 7:09 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:21 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 323 | 7:45 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:57 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 329 | 8:09 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 10:21 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 15 | 8:12 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:23 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 331 | 8:18 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 10:29 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 127 | 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 | |
Nozomi 339 | 8:51 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 11:06 AM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Kodama 811 | 8:57 AM Tokyo Station | 3h37 | 12:34 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 135 | 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 343 | 9:18 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 11:29 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 | |
Nozomi 353 | 9:54 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 12:09 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 357 | 10:18 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 12:29 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 361 | 10:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 12:50 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 67 | 10:48 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 1:00 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 369 | 10:54 AM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 1:09 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 373 | 11:18 AM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 1:29 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 379 | 11:39 AM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 1:51 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 393 | 12:24 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 2:39 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 397 | 12:42 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 2:57 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 407 | 1:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 3:32 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 423 | 2:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 4:32 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 427 | 2:39 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 4:51 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 435 | 3:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 5:21 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 43 | 3:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 5:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 439 | 3:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 5:32 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 449 | 4:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 6:21 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 47 | 4:12 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 6:23 PM Kyoto Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Nozomi 453 | 4:21 PM Tokyo Station | 2h11 | 6:32 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 463 | 5:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 7:21 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 473 | 5:54 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 8:09 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 475 | 6:09 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 8:21 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 483 | 6:48 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:00 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 493 | 7:33 PM Tokyo Station | 2h12 | 9:45 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 | |
Nozomi 499 | 7:54 PM Tokyo Station | 2h15 | 10:09 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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By Claire Martin
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 |
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.
Trains from Tokyo to Kyoto run on average 106 times per day, taking around 3h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $95 (€76) but you can travel from only $45 (€36) by bus.
There are 106 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.
Distance 230 miles (371 km) |
Average train duration 3h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $95 (€76) |
Trains per day 106 |
Direct trains 106 |
Fastest train 2h 7m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 9:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Discover the best of Kyoto — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kyoto trip today.
Major national museum with important Japanese art, archaeology, and rotating special exhibitions near Higashiyama.
Kyoto’s flagship art museum, known for modern and contemporary exhibitions in a restored historic building.
Compact but respected national museum featuring modern Japanese art, crafts, and design beside Okazaki Park.
One of Kyoto’s most photographed walking spots, with towering bamboo paths near major temples and river scenery.
Kyoto’s famous geisha district with traditional streetscapes, teahouse architecture, and atmospheric evening walks.
Historic sloping lanes lined with preserved wooden buildings, popular for classic Kyoto streetscape photos.
A Seasonal multi-course meal showcasing Kyoto’s refined culinary traditions, delicate flavors, and elegant presentation.
A Simple hot tofu dish simmered in broth, especially associated with Kyoto’s temple cuisine in areas like Nanzen-ji.
Traditional Buddhist temple cuisine based on vegetables, tofu, sesame, and seasonal ingredients, central to Kyoto’s food culture.
Renowned high-end kaiseki restaurant offering exquisite seasonal dining in an elegant traditional setting.
Historic noodle house famous for soba and traditional Kyoto atmosphere, with roots stretching back centuries.
Well-known tofu and yudofu restaurant in a traditional townhouse, appreciated for classic Kyoto flavors and calm ambiance.
Moderate by Japan standards: temples are affordable, but hotels in peak seasons and kaiseki dining raise costs.
Tipping is not customary and may cause confusion. Service is included. Do not tip restaurants or taxis; only rare exceptions at luxury ryokan.
Official public transport app
Kyoto Station -> Karasuma Oike Station, Kyoto
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 (located at 1-9 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City) and Kyoto Station (Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward) with remarkable speed and precision..
Three Shinkansen services operate on this route, each with a different balance between speed and number of stops:
For most travelers, the Hikari strikes the best balance between speed and cost when using a JR Pass.
We recommend using the JR Pass for traveling in trains all around Japan to save more money if you pretend to do many trips. You can check the correct prices for every station or shinkansen connection in Omio's JR Pass information.
Traveling on the Tokaido Shinkansen is a genuinely comfortable experience, even on a relatively short journey. Trains depart from Tokyo Station's dedicated Shinkansen platforms (tracks 14–19), which are clearly signposted in English and accessible via the central concourse.
Seating options
Best seats for the view
One of the highlights of this route is the chance to see Mount Fuji on a clear day. To maximize your chances:
On-board experience
The Shinkansen is quiet, punctual, and spotlessly clean. A trolley service sells drinks, snacks, and bento boxes on board, though picking up an ekiben (station bento) at Tokyo Station before departure is a much-loved ritual among regular travelers and a far more satisfying option.
Best time of year to travel
Kyoto Station is one of Japan's largest and most well-connected transport hubs, making onward travel straightforward regardless of your next destination.
Within Kyoto
From Kyoto Station, the city's extensive bus network reaches virtually every major temple, shrine, and neighborhood. The Kyoto City Bus is the most flexible option, with a one-day pass available for purchase near the bus terminal on the station's north side. The Kintetsu and Karasuma subway lines also depart from Kyoto Station, offering quick access to central areas such as Shijo and Karasuma Oike.
Day trips and regional connections
Kyoto's central location on the Tokaido Shinkansen line makes it an excellent base for day trips:
If you are continuing west toward Hiroshima, Hakata (Fukuoka), or even Nagasaki, your JR Pass remains valid across all of these connections, making Kyoto a natural staging point on a broader Japan itinerary.
Kyoto Station (600-8216, Shimogyo Ward) is far more than a transport interchange — it is a destination in itself. The building is an architectural landmark: a vast steel-and-glass structure designed by Hiroshi Hara, featuring a dramatic atrium, open-air sky garden, and sweeping staircases. Allow a few extra minutes on arrival simply to take it in.
Practical information at the station
Arriving in Kyoto for the first time
Unlike Tokyo or Osaka, Kyoto rewards a slower pace. The city is organized around a loose grid, with the major temple and shrine districts — Arashiyama, Higashiyama, Fushimi, and Gion — spread across different areas. Most first-time visitors find it helpful to group sightseeing by neighborhood to avoid unnecessary backtracking.
Taxis are plentiful outside the station's central and Hachijo exits, though they can be slow during rush hour. For those arriving in the evening, the illuminated Kyoto Tower directly opposite the station's north exit makes an easy landmark to orient yourself before heading to your accommodation.
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.

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