How to Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen – Fast, Easy & Convenient Guide

Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel between Japan’s two iconic cities. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, this guide covers everything you need to know — from choosing the right train and buying tickets to understanding seat classes and travel times.

Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen Timetable and Schedule

• Shinkansen Nozomi Train

• The fastest train, Nozomi takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes from Tokyo to Kyoto.
• Nozomi trains run frequently (every 10 minutes at peak times) and stop at major stations only.
• The earliest departure: 6:00 am (arriving Kyoto at 8:08 am)
• The latest departure: 9:24 pm (arriving Kyoto at 11:31 pm)
  Note: Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Nozomi.

• Shinkansen Hikari Train

• Hikari trains are slower than Nozomi, taking about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
• It stops at more stations than Nozomi but is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
• Runs about 2 times per hour.
• The earliest departure: 6:21 am (arriving Kyoto at 9:06 am)
• The latest departure: 8:12 pm (arriving Kyoto at 11:01 pm)

• Shinkansen Kodama Train

• Kodama stops at all stations and takes about 4 hours.
• Recommended only if you're getting on/off at smaller stations or want a quieter ride.
• Also covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

At Shinkansen-ticket.com, we book Shinkansen Nozomi train.

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Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen Ticket

To travel by Shinkansen, you will need the following tickets:

• Basic Fare Ticket: Covers the standard fare between Tokyo and Kyoto.
• Express Ticket: Required for Shinkansen use. Price varies by train type.
• Reserved Seat Ticket (Optional): Guarantees a reserved seat.
• Green Reserved Seat Ticket (Optional): First-class seat in the Green Car with more space and comfort.

At Shinkansen-ticket.com, All tickets are included.

Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen Seat Type and Preferences

• Seat Classes
• Green Reserved Seat: Premium, spacious seating in the Green Car.
• Reserved Seat: Standard seat with guaranteed reservation.
• Unreserved Seat: First-come, first-served. May be crowded during peak travel times.
• Mt. Fuji View Seat
• To enjoy a view of Mt. Fuji, please request Mt. Fuji side when traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto
• Seat with Oversized Luggage Space
• If your luggage exceeds 160 cm in total dimensions, please request Seat with oversized luggage space

At Shinkansen-ticket.com, you can request seats on Mt.Fuji view and/or seats with oversized luggage space.

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Tip for Mt. Fuji view on the way to Kyoto

In good weather, you can see Mt. Fuji from shinkansen on your way to Kyoto. The best seat to see Mt. Fuji is window side seats on the right hand.
The best time to see Mt. Fuji is approximately 44 minutes after departing Tokyo station. Please check windows on the right hand side.

Shinkansen Station Guide: Tokyo to Kyoto

• Departure Stations:
• Tokyo Central Station: Main departure point in central Tokyo, well-connected by JR and metro lines.
• Shinagawa Station: Convenient if staying in southern Tokyo or near Haneda Airport.
• Arrival Station:
• Kyoto Central Station: Centrally located with direct access to buses, local trains, and taxis.

Kyoto Station Guide (Kyoto Central Station Guide)

Kyoto Station is the main transportation hub of Kyoto City and the arrival point for most travelers coming by Shinkansen from Tokyo and other cities. The station is large, modern, and easy to navigate with English signage throughout.

Key Information

• Shinkansen Platforms: Located on the upper floors. Follow signs for "Shinkansen Central Gate" or "Shinkansen Hachijo Gate" depending on your arrival.
• Local Train Transfers: Easily connect to the JR Nara Line, Kintetsu Line, or Kyoto Subway (Karasuma Line) for local travel.
• Bus Terminal: Outside the central exit, you'll find buses to famous spots like Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Arashiyama.
• Taxis & Ride Service: Taxi stands are located outside the Central and Hachijo exits.
• Luggage Services: Coin lockers and manned luggage storage counters are available throughout the station.
• Tourist Information Center: Located near the Central Exit, offering maps, tickets, and multilingual staff.

Additional Facilities

• Restaurants and food courts
• Shopping areas including Isetan department store
• Hotel Granvia Kyoto (connected directly to the station)

Transportation Options from Tokyo to Kyoto

• By Train: Tokaido Shinkansen
  • Fastest and most popular way to travel.
  • Multiple train options (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama).
  • Travel time: 2–4 hours depending on train type.
• By Train: Local Train
  • Not recommended for long-distance travel.
  • Take 8+ hours and multiple transfers required.
• By Air (Flight)
  • Kyoto does not have an airport.
  • Nearest airports:
    • Kansai International Airport (KIX): 75 ~90 minutes by train to Kyoto.
    • Itami Airport (Osaka Itami/ITM): 50~60 minutes by bus or train.
      
• By Highway Bus
  • Budget-friendly option.
  • Takes about 8 hours depending on traffic.
  • Overnight buses available.
• By Car
  • Distance: 450–480 km.
  • Drive time: 6–7 hours (without rest or traffic).
  • Toll fees, approximately 15,000 JPY, and fuel costs apply.
  • Recommended only for those comfortable with Japanese roads and traffic rules.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto

Q: How long does the Shinkansen take from Tokyo to Kyoto?
A: The Nozomi train takes about 2 hours and 15~20 minutes. The Hikari and Kodama trains take more as it stops more stations.

Q: Are there coin lockers at Kyoto Station?
A: Yes, Kyoto Station has many coin lockers for different luggage sizes, and also manned baggage storage services.

Q: How do I get from Kyoto Station to the main tourist spots?
A: You can take a local train, subway, or city bus. For example, buses from the central exit go directly to Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Arashiyama.

Q: Can I use the Japan Rail Pass on the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto?
A: Yes, the pass is valid on Hikari and Kodama trains. It is NOT valid on Nozomi trains.

Q: Which station in Kyoto does the Shinkansen arrive at?
A: All Shinkansen trains from Tokyo arrive at JR Kyoto Station, a major hub with access to buses, taxis, and local trains.

Q: Should I depart from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station?
A: It depends on where you depart within Tokyo. If you can access to Tokyo Station easier than Shinagawa Station, you can depart from Tokyo Station. Shinagawa Station is closer to Haneda Airport. If you come from Haneda Airport, you should depart from Shinagawa Station.

Q: Is the Shinkansen faster than flying from Tokyo to Kyoto?
A: Yes. Although the flight time is about 1 hour to the airports in Osaka, total travel time (including airport transfer and waiting) is about 4 hours. The Shinkansen takes just 2-2.5 hours and offers a smooth city-to-city connection.

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