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How long is the trip
- Nozomi: around 2 hours 15 minutes, fastest service.
- Hikari: around 2 hours 40 minutes, fully covered by the JR Pass.
- Kodama: around 3 hours 50 minutes, stops at every station.
Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train: times, prices and the best trains
The bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto is the most popular shinkansen route in Japan. Here is what to expect, how much it costs and the smart way to book if you plan to travel onward.
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Price of a Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train ticket
A one way ordinary reserved ticket costs around 14,170 yen. A return trip is around 28,340 yen, which is already most of the price of a 7 day Japan Rail Pass.
Green car (first class) tickets are around 19,590 yen one way.
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Best shinkansen to pick
Travellers with a Japan Rail Pass should take the Hikari. It is only 25 minutes slower than the Nozomi and the difference is rarely worth the supplementary fee.
If you want to ride a Nozomi or Mizuho on your JR Pass, you can pay a small extra fee per leg when reserving a seat.
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Save money with a Japan Rail Pass
A return Tokyo to Kyoto trip plus a single day trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima or Hakone easily pays back a 7 day pass.
Order from GetJRPass and we ship the official exchange order worldwide. You activate it in Japan on the first day you want to use it.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
Can I use the JR Pass on the Nozomi from Tokyo to Kyoto?
Yes, with a small supplementary fee paid at the reservation desk or vending machine. The Hikari is included with no extra charge.
Do I need to book in advance?
Seat reservations open one month before departure and are free with a JR Pass. Reserve early for cherry blossom and autumn travel.
Which station do I arrive at in Kyoto?
All shinkansen trains stop at Kyoto Station, on the south side of the city centre and well connected to JR local lines, subway and buses.
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