How to get to kyoto from tokyo?
Updated: September 9, 2024Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto is one of the most common routes for both tourists and locals in Japan. There are several options available, each catering to different preferences and budgets. This guide will detail the various ways to make this journey, including by train, bus, car, and air.
By Train: The Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto. There are several types of Shinkansen trains that operate on this route:
Nozomi Shinkansen
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Price: Around 14,000 JPY for a one-way ticket
- Frequency: Departures every 10-15 minutes
The Nozomi is the fastest Shinkansen service, making fewer stops than other types. It is ideal for those who want to get to Kyoto as quickly as possible.
Hikari Shinkansen
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes
- Price: Around 13,500 JPY for a one-way ticket
- Frequency: Departures every 30 minutes
The Hikari service is slightly slower than the Nozomi but still very efficient. It stops at a few more stations, making it a good middle-ground option.
Kodama Shinkansen
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Price: Around 13,500 JPY for a one-way ticket
- Frequency: Departures every hour
The Kodama is the slowest of the three, stopping at many stations along the way. It is usually less crowded and may be a good option for those who prefer a more leisurely trip.
By Bus: An Economical Option
For budget travelers, taking a highway bus from Tokyo to Kyoto is a viable option. Although it is slower than the Shinkansen, it is significantly cheaper.
Daytime Buses
- Duration: Approximately 8-9 hours
- Price: Around 4,000-8,000 JPY for a one-way ticket
- Comfort: Standard seating with occasional rest stops
Daytime buses offer a longer journey but can be a good way to see more of the Japanese countryside.
Overnight Buses
- Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours
- Price: Around 4,000-10,000 JPY for a one-way ticket
- Comfort: Reclining seats, blankets, and sometimes onboard amenities like Wi-Fi
Overnight buses are a popular choice because they save on accommodation costs and allow you to arrive in Kyoto early in the morning, ready to explore.
By Car: A Flexible Journey
Renting a car offers the most flexibility, allowing you to travel at your own pace and make stops along the way. Here are some things to consider:
Route and Duration
- Route: The most direct route is via the Tomei and Meishin Expressways.
- Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours without heavy traffic
Costs
- Rental Fees: Varies depending on the type of car, starting around 7,000 JPY per day
- Tolls: Approximately 10,000 JPY for the one-way trip
- Fuel: Additional cost depending on the car's fuel efficiency
Driving can be more expensive due to tolls and fuel costs, but it allows for stops at attractions along the way, such as Mount Fuji or the Ise Grand Shrine.
By Air: Quick but Less Convenient
Flying is an option, though it is generally less convenient due to the time needed for airport transfers and security checks.
Flight Details
- Duration: Flight time is about 1 hour, but total travel time including airport procedures is around 3-4 hours
- Price: Varies widely, with budget airlines offering fares as low as 5,000 JPY and major airlines charging up to 20,000 JPY
Airports
- Tokyo Airports: Flights depart from either Haneda or Narita Airport
- Kyoto Access: The nearest airport to Kyoto is Kansai International Airport (KIX), about 75 minutes away by train
Considering the additional time and cost of airport transfers, flying is typically less popular for this route unless you find a very cheap fare or have specific needs.
Lesser-Known Options
There are a few other, less conventional ways to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, though they are not as commonly used:
Local Trains
- Duration: Approximately 9-10 hours
- Price: Around 8,000-9,000 JPY for a one-way ticket
Traveling by local trains involves multiple transfers and is significantly slower, but it can offer a unique experience and a deeper look into regional Japan.
Bicycle
- Duration: Several days, depending on fitness level and pace
- Price: Minimal, mainly for food and accommodation
For the adventurous, cycling from Tokyo to Kyoto can be a rewarding experience, allowing for exploration of rural areas and small towns that are otherwise bypassed.
Choosing the Best Option
The best way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto depends on your priorities:
- Speed: Nozomi Shinkansen
- Budget: Highway bus or local trains
- Flexibility: Car rental
- Experience: Cycling or local trains
Each mode of transport offers a unique journey, catering to various preferences and allowing for a range of experiences. Whether you prioritize speed, cost, or adventure, the route from Tokyo to Kyoto holds a myriad of possibilities.
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