How Far Is Kyoto from Tokyo? 10 Ways to Travel & Costs

Tokyo and Kyoto are around 450 kilometers apart, and travelers can expect an average journey time of 5 hours 19 minutes depending on the route. There are many ways to travel between these two iconic cities, each suited to different budgets and schedules. 

The most popular option is the Shinkansen bullet train, which is fast and reliable. For budget-conscious travelers, long-distance buses and night buses offer the cheapest fares. 

Those who prefer flexibility can drive, while others may choose to fly from Tokyo’s airports with onward connections by train, subway, or bus via cities such as Osaka, Kobe, Nagoya, or Tokushima. 

In total, there are 10 main travel options: train, bus, night bus, drive, flight (HND → ITM), flight + train + subway, Narita flight + train, flight + train (Nagoya), Ibaraki flight + train, and flight + bus + train (Tokushima). On average, costs range between $27 and $472, making the journey accessible for every type of traveler.

10 Ways to Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto

Traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto can be done in many ways depending on your budget, schedule, and preferences. From the fast and efficient Shinkansen trains to more affordable buses and even flights, here’s a clear comparison of all 10 available options as per rome2rio.com.

Tokyo and Kyoto are two of Japan’s most popular cities, and travelers have many choices for getting between them.

Interestingly, the Tokyo–Kyoto route is similar to other popular city pairs worldwide. For example, travelers often wonder how far is Tampa from Orlando in Florida.

Here are the 10 main ways to make the trip, with travel times, costs, and short descriptions for each option.

1. Train (Best Option)

The Shinkansen bullet train from Tōkyō Station to Kyōto is the fastest and most convenient way to travel. The Nozomi service takes just 2 hours 17 minutes, with prices ranging between $75–110. This is the top choice for most travelers who want speed and comfort.

2. Bus (Cheapest Option)

For those on a budget, buses run from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi. The trip takes about 7 hours 8 minutes and costs between $27–110. It’s the cheapest way, but much slower than the train.

3. Night Bus

Another bus option is the overnight service from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Minami Kusatsu Station. It takes around 7 hours 22 minutes. This option saves the cost of a night’s hotel stay, though comfort depends on the bus class.

4. Drive

Driving the 456.9 km between Tokyo and Kyoto takes about 4 hours 59 minutes. Costs are estimated at $50–72, but tolls and fuel can add up. It gives flexibility and freedom, but traffic can make the trip longer.

5. Flight (Tokyo HND → Osaka ITM)

Flying from Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) to Osaka International Airport (ITM) takes about 3 hours 47 minutes including airport time. Tickets cost $92–295. From Osaka, it’s a short transfer to Kyoto by train.

6. Flight + Train + Subway (Tokyo HND → Kobe UKB)

You can also fly from Haneda (HND) to Kobe (UKB), then take a train to Kyoto and a subway to Marutamachi. The trip takes around 4 hours 2 minutes and costs $102–186. It’s longer than the direct train but an alternative for travelers who want to fly.

7. Narita Flight + Train (Tokyo → Narita → Osaka ITM)

Another route is taking a train from Tokyo Station to Narita Airport, then flying from Narita (NRT) to Osaka (ITM). The journey is about 4 hours 21 minutes and costs $156–337, usually more expensive than other options.

8. Flight + Train (Nagoya)

From Haneda (HND), fly to Chūbu Centrair International Airport (NGO), then take a train from Nagoya to Kyoto. This option takes 4 hours 20 minutes and costs $124–288. It combines air travel with a shorter train ride.

9. Ibaraki Flight + Train (IBR → Kobe UKB)

Take a train from Tokyo Station to Ishioka, then fly from Ibaraki Airport (IBR) to Kobe (UKB), and finally a train to Kyoto. The full journey is 4 hours 53 minutes at $147–263. It’s one of the less common routes.

10. Flight + Bus + Train (Tokyo HND → Tokushima TKS)

This option involves flying from Haneda (HND) to Tokushima (TKS), taking a bus from Kousoku Naruto to Shin-Kobe, then a train to Kyoto. It takes 5 hours 50 minutes and costs between $180–472. It’s the most complex and expensive route but may suit travelers exploring Shikoku.

Extra Travel Details from Tokyo to Kyoto

Beyond the main transport options, there are additional details that can help you plan your trip more smoothly. These include exact bullet train timetables, JR Pass coverage, connections to Osaka, specific bus operators, and airport transfer routes.

Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen Schedules and Fares

The Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Kyoto offers three main services:

• Hikari – Takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, stopping at 5–9 stations. Standard fare is ¥13,320, with seat reservations costing ¥13,850. Fully covered by the JR Pass.
• Kodama – The slowest option at 3 hours 40 minutes, making 16 stops. Costs are the same as Hikari, and it is also fully covered by the JR Pass.
• Nozomi – The fastest at 2 hours 15 minutes, with only 3–4 stops. Standard fare is ¥13,970, reserved seat ¥14,170, but JR Pass holders need to buy a supplementary ticket (around ¥4960).

Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen Timetable

Here are the typical departure windows from Tokyo:

• Hikari: First train 06:00, last train 21:24
• Kodama: First train 06:27, last train 21:30
• Nozomi: First train 06:57, last train 21:57

Schedules can shift slightly with the season, so it’s best to double-check before traveling.

Shinkansen with JR Pass

The Japan Rail Pass covers unlimited travel on Hikari and Kodama trains, making it a cost-effective choice if you plan to use trains frequently across Japan. With the pass, you can simply board without buying extra tickets.

However, for the Nozomi, which is the fastest, you’ll need to purchase a supplementary ticket in addition to the pass.

It’s a system similar to how travelers compare routes like how far is London from Paris, where speed and cost also depend on the type of train service chosen.

Next Stop: Osaka

After Kyoto, the next destination on the Tokaido Shinkansen line is Shin-Osaka Station. It’s only about 15 minutes further from Kyoto, which makes it easy to combine both cities in one trip. Many travelers add Osaka to their itinerary right after Kyoto.

Tokyo to Kyoto by Bus – Companies in Detail

Willer Express

• Runs multiple daily services from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station
• Journey: 7 to 9 hours
• Price: ¥3,500–¥7,000
• Comfortable seats, reclining options, and power outlets available

JR Bus Kanto

• Operated by Japan Railways
• Day and night services (including the Midnight Express leaving at ~11 p.m.)
• Duration: 8–9 hours
• Price: ¥5,000–¥8,000
• Departs from Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Tokyo Station

Keio Bus

• Runs both day and overnight services
• Departure point: Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
• Arrival: Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit
• Duration: 7.5–9 hours
• Price: ¥4,500–¥7,500

Airport Transfers for Tokyo and Kyoto

If you’re arriving by plane, here’s how to connect smoothly with the Shinkansen using your JR Pass:

• From Narita International Airport: Take the Narita Express (N’EX) to Tokyo Station, then transfer to the Shinkansen.
• From Haneda Airport: Take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho, then change to the JR Yamanote Line or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to reach Tokyo Station.

For arriving in Kyoto via Kansai International Airport (KIX), you can ride the Haruka Express directly to Kyoto in about 1 hour. The JR Pass fully covers this route, saving you about ¥2200 for a one-way ticket.

For perspective, the distance between Tokyo and Kyoto is a bit like wondering how far is Sedona from Phoenix in Arizona—it’s a manageable trip that many travelers do regularly, whether for business or leisure.

FAQs:

Q. Is it better to fly or train from Kyoto to Tokyo?

The Shinkansen is the best option. It’s faster, more convenient, and gets you to Tokyo in about 2–3 hours. Flying can be cheaper, but airport transfers and check-in time make it less practical.

Q. Can you do a day trip from Kyoto to Tokyo?

Yes, it’s possible. The Shinkansen makes a round trip in a single day doable. However, it’s a long journey, so it can feel rushed.

Q. Is Kyoto cheaper than Tokyo for tourists?

Yes, Kyoto is generally cheaper. Tokyo’s hotels, food, and entertainment cost about 30% more. Kyoto offers more traditional experiences at a lower price.