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Tokyo to Kyoto Distance: 445km (283 miles), 2 - 8 h Transport
How far it is from Tokyo to Kyoto? The Distance between Tokyo and Kyoto are about 283 miles (445 km). You can easily get from the bustling city of Tokyo to the historic city of Kyoto by bullet train, bus, plane, or car in 2-8 hours.
The journey will take you from the modern city to the peaceful ancient capital, with stunning views of the Japanese countryside along the way. And if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.
5 Ways Travel to Kyoto from Tokyo: Shinkansen, Flight, Bus, Regular Trains & Driving
| Transport Option | Key Features | Price Range (JPN¥) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinkansen (Bullet Train) | Fastest | 13,000 -17,950 | 2 - 4h |
| Buses | Cheapest | 3,000 - 10,000 | 6 - 8 h |
| Flights | Quick | 5,000 - 15,000 | 3.5 - 5 h |
| Regular Trains | Scenic | 4,000 - 6,000 | 8 - 12 h |
| Driving | Flexible | From 15,000 | 5 - 8 h |
Key Notes:
Shinkansen: The most popular and efficient method is by Shinkansen (bullet train). The journey on the Tokaido Shinkansen line from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station takes about 2 to 4 hours. Nozomi trains are the fastest, followed by Hikari and Kodama which make more stops.
Bus: The cheapest option, with many night buses available, allowing you to save on a night's accommodation.
Flight: Includes the flight time plus additional time for airport transfers. Flights land at Osaka's Kansai International Airport, requiring additional transfer to Kyoto.
Regular Trains: A good choice if you want to enjoy the landscape and are not in a hurry. This option requires patience due to multiple transfers.
Driving: Offers the most flexibility and the opportunity to visit places like Mount Fuji or Hakone en route. However, consider the cost of toll roads and parking in Kyoto, which can be expensive.
Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Best & Fast Way to Kyoto from Tokyo
When traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto, the Shinkansen or bullet train is the fastest and most convenient way to go. It only takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to get from Tokyo to Kyoto on the Shinkansen. The Nozomi is the fastest service on the Tokaido Shinkansen line and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, making only a few stops at major cities.
With trains departing from Tokyo for Kyoto every 15 minutes during peak hours, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. The Shinkansen is known for its punctuality, with very few delays or cancellations. The carriages are designed with comfort in mind, offering spacious seats and ample legroom. Many trains are also equipped with modern amenities like power outlets and free Wi-Fi.
Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Schedule, Price & Travel Time
| Train Type | Travel Time | Standard Fare | Reserved Seat Fare | Fare with JRP | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nozomi | About 2h 15min | ¥16,850 | ¥17,950 | Not covered | Every 10-15 minutes |
| Hikari | About 2h 40min | ¥13,000 - 14,000 | ¥14,000 - 15,000 | Covered | Every 30 minutes |
| Kodama | About 4h | ¥13,000 - 14,000 | ¥14,000 - 15,000 | Covered | Every hour |
(The provided Shinkansen ticket prices for the Tokyo to Kyoto route are subject to change. For real-time pricing information, please reach out to us.)
Nozomi: This is the fastest option on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. It makes the fewest stops, only at major cities, and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach Kyoto from Tokyo. It's perfect for business travelers or anyone on a tight schedule.
Hikari: Slightly slower than the Nozomi, the Hikari makes a few more stops and takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes. It's a good balance between speed and cost.
Kodama: The slowest of the three, stopping at all stations along the way. It takes about 4 hours to complete the journey from Tokyo to Kyoto. While not ideal for those in a hurry, it offers more opportunities to hop off and explore other cities along the route if desired.
How to Take a Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Reach to Kyoto from Tokyo
Step 1: Choose Your Departure Station in Tokyo
The Shinkansen to Kyoto departs from Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station in Tokyo. Tokyo Station is more centrally located if you're coming from areas like Ginza or Marunouchi, while Shinagawa might be more convenient if you're in Shibuya or Shinjuku.
Step 2: Purchase Your Tickets (3 Ways)
At the Station: Purchase your tickets from manned ticket counters or automated ticket machines available at both Tokyo and Shinagawa Stations.
Online: Many travelers find it convenient to buy tickets online through websites like JR East or through travel apps that offer English support.
Travel Agencies: Before arriving in Japan, you can purchase a voucher from travel agencies that you exchange for a ticket once you arrive.
Step 3: Boarding the Train and Enjoy the Ride
Once you have your ticket, proceed through the Shinkansen gates by inserting your ticket into the slot at the automated gates, then retrieve it as you pass through. Keep your ticket handy as you'll need it to exit the station in Kyoto.
Step 4: Arriving at Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station, where the Shinkansen arrives, is centrally located and offers easy access to many of Kyoto's famous sights either by bus, subway, or even on foot. The station itself is a modern architectural marvel, equipped with a vast array of shops, restaurants, and other amenities that cater to every need and taste.
Is a Seat Reservation Required for Shinkansen Trips from Tokyo to Kyoto?
Thinking of taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto, you might be wondering if you need to reserve a seat.
While it's not always necessary to reserve a seat in advance, it's highly recommended during peak seasons like holidays, weekends, or when the weather is particularly nice. Non-reserved seats can get very crowded, and you might not be able to find a seat. If you're traveling with a group or prefer a guaranteed seat, it's best to reserve a seat in advance.
If your seat is reserved, your car and seat number will be indicated on your ticket. If you have a non-reserved ticket, head to the non-reserved cars, typically cars 1-3.
Should I get a JR Pass for the Shinkansen trip from Tokyo to Kyoto?
A JR Pass offers unlimited rides on most JR trains for 7, 14, or 21 days. This includes the Hikari and Kodama Shinkansen between Tokyo and Kyoto (but not the fastest Nozomi).
If you plan to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, or Hiroshima, a JR Pass is a no-brainer. But if you're just going back and forth between Tokyo and Kyoto, a one-way Shinkansen ticket might be cheaper.
Tokyo to Kyoto Bus: Highway Bus & Night Bus (Cheapest Way)
Travel time: about 7-10 hours
Cost: 3,000 - 10,000
Departure Station: Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Bus Terminal
Arrival Station: Various bus terminals in Kyoto
For budget-conscious travelers exploring Japan, the journey between Tokyo and Kyoto doesn't have to break the bank. Fares can be as low as ¥3,000 one way during promotional periods, with regular prices generally hovering around ¥4,000 to ¥6,000.
Taking a long-distance bus can be a wallet-friendly alternative, especially if you're not in a rush. One of the biggest advantages of taking a night bus is the ability to save on one night's accommodation. The journey by bus takes about 7 to 10 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
There are various buses to choose from, from standard seats to more luxurious options, like the "Relax" seats which provide more space and privacy. Other companies, such as JR Bus, also operate routes between Tokyo and Kyoto, giving travelers a variety of options depending on their budget and comfort preferences.
Tokyo to Kyoto Flight: Alternative Options to Travel to Kyoto from Tokyo
Travel time: 90 minutes (flight time) + travel time to/from the airport
Cost: 10,000 - 15,000
Departure: HND, NRT
Arrival: KIX, ITM
Tokyo to Kyoto flight is an option worth considering, especially if you find a good deal on flights or are pressed for time. When planning to fly from Tokyo to Kyoto, it's important to note that Kyoto does not have its own airport. Instead, travelers fly into Osaka, which is close to Kyoto.
Tokyo to Kyoto Flight Airports
Airports in Kyoto: The nearest airport to Kyoto is Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka. Another accessible airport is Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), which handles domestic flights.
Airports in Tokyo: From Tokyo, you can fly from Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) to either Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport. Both Haneda and Narita are accessible via public transport from central Tokyo, but Narita is significantly farther, requiring about an hour by train, whereas Haneda is approximately 30 minutes from central Tokyo.
Tokyo to Kyoto Regular Train: A Scenic but Slower Route
Travel time: about 8-12 h
Cost: 4,000 - 6,000
For travelers looking to experience a more leisurely and scenic journey from Tokyo to Kyoto, opting for regular trains instead of the bullet train (Shinkansen) can be an intriguing choice. It offers a unique opportunity to see more of Japan's landscape and local life at a considerably lower cost.
Regular trains that connect Tokyo to Kyoto typically involve multiple transfers and a longer travel time. The journey can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours depending on the number of transfers and the type of trains used.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing regular trains is the cost. A one-way ticket using regular trains can cost significantly less, sometimes around ¥4,000 to ¥6,000, which is less than half the price of the cheapest Shinkansen ticket.
Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto By Car: 6-8 hours Adventure
Driving from Tokyo to Kyoto offers a unique and adventurous way to explore Japan at your own pace. If you're up for a road trip, the journey from Tokyo to Kyoto by car can be an unforgettable part of your Japanese adventure, filled with scenic views, hidden gems, and the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you please.
The drive typically takes about 5 to 6 hours without stops, but the journey is best enjoyed with several breaks, either to rest or to explore the cities and attractions along the way.
The route involves multiple toll roads. Tolls for a one-way trip can range from ¥8,000 to ¥10,000, so be prepared for these additional costs.
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Useful Kyoto Travel Guide: 11 Best Things to Do in Kyoto, Kyoto Temples & Shrines, Kyoto Autumn Foliage, Kyoto Itinerary, How to Get to Kyoto from Tokyo, How to Get to Kyoto from Osaka, Kyoto Osaka Nara Itinerary, Kyoto Maps, Japan Travel Guide, Japan Travel Tips & FAQs
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