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Time and trains
- Distance: around 450 km on the Tokaido shinkansen.
- Nozomi: 2 hours 15 minutes, supplement applies with the JR Pass.
- Hikari: 2 hours 40 minutes, fully covered by the JR Pass.
- Kodama: 4 hours, also covered.
Route guide
Tokyo to Kyoto by train: shinkansen and JR Pass
The Tokyo to Kyoto route is the most popular shinkansen ride in Japan. Here is what it costs and how to do it with a JR Pass.
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Price without a pass
A reserved ordinary seat Tokyo to Kyoto costs around 13,800 yen one way. A round trip alone is already more than half the price of a 7 day JR Pass.
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With a Japan Rail Pass
- Pick Hikari and ride free, only 25 minutes slower than Nozomi.
- Reserve seats free at any JR ticket office or online.
- Extend to Osaka, Hiroshima or Kanazawa on the same pass.
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Tips
- Sit in seat D for Fuji views, on the right hand side going west.
- First train Hikari leaves Tokyo around 6:00.
- Buy an ekiben at Tokyo station for the perfect bullet train lunch.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
How long is Tokyo to Kyoto by shinkansen?
About 2 hours 15 minutes on Nozomi and 2 hours 40 minutes on Hikari, which is fully covered by the JR Pass.
Is the trip covered by the JR Pass?
Yes. Hikari and Kodama on the Tokaido shinkansen are both included.
Can I do a Kyoto day trip from Tokyo?
Yes, but most travellers stay at least one night to enjoy the temples and gardens.
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