What is the fast train to Kyoto?

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).



The "fast train" to Kyoto is the Shinkansen, specifically the Nozomi service on the Tokaido Line. Departing from Tokyo Station, the Nozomi is the fastest category, reaching Kyoto in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, hitting speeds of up to 285 km/h (177 mph). Other Shinkansen options include the Hikari, which takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, and the Kodama, which stops at every station and takes nearly 4 hours. In 2026, the Nozomi remains the preferred choice for business travelers and tourists alike due to its frequency—often departing every few minutes during peak times. While the JR Pass now requires a supplemental fee to ride the Nozomi, it is still the most efficient way to travel between Japan's current and former capitals. The trains are world-renowned for their punctuality, cleanliness, and the "Ekiben" (station lunch boxes) that passengers enjoy while watching the Japanese countryside, including views of Mount Fuji, whisk by at high speed.

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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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Getting from Tokyo to Kyoto with the Japan Rail Pass is easy. You should take the Shinkansen Hikari bullet train from either Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station in central Tokyo, and arrive at Kyoto Station. Three trains run on the Tokaido Shinkansen line: Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama.

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Shinkansen bullet trains are the fastest and most convenient way of discovering Japan. The Japan Rail (JR) network is extensive and the trains reach a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph). This allows you to get to wherever you need in little time. The nine Shinkansen lines take you in different directions around Japan.

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It's very easy to travel between Kyoto and Osaka. The shinkansen is fastest (14 minutes, Y1420). There's also the private Keihan Line (51 minutes, Y410) and Hankyu Line (44 minutes, Y400).

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The shinkansen train tickets cost more than local train tickets, but you're basically trading money for time and comfort. The bullet trains will get you to your next destination quicker than other options, leaving you with more time to settle in to your new city or more time to get out and explore!

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The Maglev train has also exceeded previous Shinkansen world speed records in trials at the Miyazaki Test Track. Most Shinkansen trains operate at speeds of about 500 kilometers per hour (200 to 275 miles per hour).

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Welcome to YOUR JAPAN. Use the bullet train Tokaido Shinkansen to travel to Mt. Fuji right from the heart of Tokyo. On the left side, you will see mesmerizing Sagami Bay, and on the right side the symbol of Japan, the highest summit of the country, perfectly symmetrical Mount Fuji.

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Available seats are not guaranteed on the busy commuter trains going to and from Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. There are no crowds on the intercity Shinkansen trains so free seats tend to be available. However, it is recommended to book a seat before boarding any train during the following peak seasons: April 27 to May 6.

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Eating and drinking on Japanese trains You should eat on trains only when taking a long-distance train, such as the Shinkansen. These types of trains have a tray and cup holder at every seat, and snacks are sold from a vendor trolley.

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When boarding directly from a Shinkansen station, please insert your tickets into the Shinkansen ticket gate prior to boarding. Your tickets are required for on-board ticket checks and exiting the station at your destination. Please do not lose or forget to take your tickets.

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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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Shinkansen or bullet train The Nozomi trains on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line are the fastest trains that run between Tokyo and Kyoto. A one-way travel from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station takes just 2 hours and 15 minutes, and costs the same as the two other slower trains. Unfortunately, it is not covered by the JR Pass.

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