Tokyo to Kyoto - The Best and Cheapest Ways
Last updated: August 15, 2025
The distance between Tokyo and Kyoto is about 460 kilometers (286 miles). The fastest way to travel is by the Shinkansen bullet train, while the most budget-friendly option is the overnight bus.
Shinkansen - The Best Way from Tokyo to Kyoto
You can board the Shinkansen at either Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station and get off at Kyoto Station. Hikari services are covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Nozomi services are not covered by the JR Pass — JR Pass holders who wish to use Nozomi must buy a special Nozomi supplement ticket (approx. ¥4,960 Tokyo–Kyoto).
Hikari | Nozomi | |
|---|---|---|
| Journey time | 2h 40m | 2h 14m |
| Unreserved seat fare | ¥13,320 | ¥13,320 |
| Reserved seat fare | ¥13,850–¥14,050 | ¥14,170–¥14,370 |
| JR Pass accepted | Yes | Additional ¥4,960 required |
Choosing Your Seat:
The easiest option is an unreserved (non-reserved) seat. Non-reserved cars are marked on the platform and on the train—their position can vary by service (commonly several cars at one end). If you hold an unreserved ticket, you may sit in any available seat in those cars on a first-come, first-served basis; if no seats are available you may need to stand or wait for the next train. During off-peak hours there are usually plenty of seats on Shinkansen services from Tokyo, but during busy seasons (e.g., autumn foliage, Golden Week, New Year) trains can fill up — in that case buy a reserved seat for peace of mind.
Buying Tickets:
It’s easier to buy tickets at the staffed ticket counter. The staff at major stations can usually help in simple English, and it’s much simpler than figuring out the ticket machines.
Watch: Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen 🇯🇵 DON’T MAKE THIS MISTAKE
Night Bus - The Cheapest Way from Tokyo to Kyoto
Several companies operate night buses between Tokyo and Kyoto, the most well-known being Willer Express. While night buses are not very comfortable, the fare is about half the price of a Shinkansen ticket and also saves you the cost of one night’s accommodation, making them a good choice for budget travelers.
From: Shin-Kiba Station, Tokyo Station, Tokyo Disneyland, etc.
To: Kyoto Station
Departure time: around 9:00 PM
Arrival time: Around 6:00 AM the next morning
Journey time: around 9 hours
Fare: ¥5,000–¥12,000 depending on bus type
Reservation: Online reservation recommended
Watch: Willer Express
