What is the best train to take from Tokyo to Kyoto?

The best way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto is the shinkansen (bullet train). The fastest type of shinkansen, called the Nozomi, takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes and costs Y13,080 for a one-way trip in an unreserved seat.



For traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, the best and most popular option is the Shinkansen (bullet train), specifically the Tokaido Shinkansen line. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose:

? Best Train: Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

  • Line: Tokaido Shinkansen (operated by JR Central)
  • Departure Stations in Tokyo:
  • Tokyo Station (most common)
  • Shinagawa Station (also convenient, less crowded)
  • Arrival Station in Kyoto: Kyoto Station
  • Travel Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes (fastest service)

? Types of Shinkansen Services

Three main services run on this line, differing in speed, stops, and cost:

  1. Nozomi (のぞみ) – Fastest
    - Fewest stops, reaches Kyoto in ≈2 hours 15 minutes.
    - Not covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), requires separate ticket.

  2. Hikari (ひかり) – Slightly slower
    - Takes ≈2 hours 40 minutes.
    - Covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

  3. Kodama (こだま) – Slowest
    - Stops at all stations, takes ≈4 hours.
    - Covered by JR Pass, but not recommended for this route unless necessary.

? Ticket Costs

  • Nozomi/Hikari:
  • Non-reserved seat:

People Also Ask

A standard fee for a one-way Tokyo to Kyoto ticket is around 160 USD during peak seasons and 100-120 USD off peak, although the price heavily depends on such factor as what travel class you prefer or do you purchase a ticket with reserved or unreserved seats.

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When traveling to Kyoto, Mt. Fuji is located on the right side, and traveling to Tokyo, it's visible on the left side. For the best view, always reserve the E seat (if you are a group of two, you should book D & E). We'll explain later why it is always the E seat!

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Just take the Hikari train on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. You will get between Kyoto Station and Shin-Osaka Station in less than 30 minutes, traveling at a speed of 285 km/h (177 mph).

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The shinkansen (bullet train) is the best way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto. It takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes and costs Y13,080 between Tokyo and Kyoto(non-reserved seat). You don't need to reserve seats on the shinkansen if you travel outside of peak travel hours and outside of peak travel seasons.

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How much luggage can I bring onto the shinkansen? Each passenger is allowed to bring on two pieces of oversized luggage each. Each of these pieces of luggage cannot exceed 250 cm in total dimensions as previously stated. Additionally, each piece of luggage cannot exceed 30 kg (66 lbs) in weight.

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With your Japan Rail Pass The cities of Tokyo and Kyoto are linked to each other by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line. A one-way trip from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station on a Hikari or Kodama train costs 13,080 yen (unreserved seat) or 13,800 yen (reserved seat), but is completely free with a JR Pass.

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Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen trains Summer is also the time when Mount Fuji can be clearly seen from a Shinkansen train leaving Tokyo towards Nagoya – Osaka – Kyoto. The window view is impressive – make sure to reserve your D or E seat (C or D in Green Cars), which is the right side from Tokyo, left side from Kyoto.

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When going from Tokyo to Kyoto, sit on the right side of the car. When going from Kyoto to Tokyo, sit on the left side of the car.

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Can I use the JR Pass in Kyoto? Yes, to a limited extent. JR lines run to the west and south of Kyoto, with access to highlights such as Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari and Uji. Additionally, a local JR bus runs from Kyoto station to north Kyoto.

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With a medium stay of 4-5 days in Kyoto, you'll have the opportunity to delve deeper into the city's rich history and culture. This extended duration allows you to venture beyond the most famous attractions and explore some of Kyoto's lesser-known gems.

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If you calculate that your travel costs will be lower if you buy individual tickets for each journey, then it's not worth buying a JR Pass. However, if you take into account journeys on Shinkansen high-speed trains or other means of transport, the savings you make become substantial.

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If you are traveling to multiple cities in Japan and plan on using the bullet train (Shinkansen) or other long-distance trains (local, express or limited-express trains), then the JR Pass can be a cost-effective option.

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On a Green car, as there is a footrest, please store your baggage on the overhead baggage rack. If your baggage cannot be stored on the overhead baggage rack or by your feet due to its shape, weight, etc., you may store it in the area at the back of the car by reserving a seat with an oversized baggage area.

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Yes, it is generally allowed to bring food with you on the Shinkansen in Japan. Many passengers bring their own meals or snacks to enjoy during the journey. However, it is important to be considerate of other passengers and avoid strong-smelling foods or meals that may cause inconvenience to those around you.

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All shinkansen are equipped with multiple toilets, which are sometimes separated by gender. The toilets are Western-style except on some older train sets.

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If you miss your stop on the Shinkansen in Japan, you have a few options: You can ask the conductor to let you off at the next station. The conductor may be able to do this if there are seats available, but they are not obligated to do so.

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