Tokyo to Kyoto from $27: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Tokyo to Kyoto: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$27 by busBest price
373.5 kmDistance
2h 17m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tokyo to Kyoto with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
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Compare prices for your selected dates
| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fly | $47 | $40 | $39 | $39 | $45 | $48 | $46 |
Traveling From Tokyo to Kyoto
Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto offers a vibrant contrast between the bustling urban energy of Japan's capital and the serene, historic charm of its ancient capital.
Best Neighbourhoods in Kyoto
Kyoto's neighborhoods blend history with local culture, offering diverse experiences.
Gion
• Famous for traditional tea houses and geisha culture.
• Stunning cherry blossoms in spring attract many visitors.
Arashiyama
• Home to the iconic bamboo grove and scenic river views.
• Easy access to beautiful temples and hiking trails.
Nijo Castle Area
• A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing historic architecture.
• Nearby gardens provide a peaceful escape from the city.
Best Times To Visit Kyoto's Attractions
Planning your visits to Kyoto's highlights can elevate your experience.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Weekday mornings are ideal to explore the famous torii gate paths peacefully.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Go at sunrise for serene views and to avoid tourist groups.
Kyoto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Kyoto experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters, making spring and autumn the best times to visit for mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Weather influences not only what to pack but also your enjoyment of outdoor attractions and seasonal events.
Dining in Kyoto
When in Kyoto, savor the delicate flavors of kaiseki, a multi-course meal that showcases seasonal ingredients and artful presentation, offering a stark contrast to Tokyo's fast-paced dining scene. The tranquil atmosphere of a traditional ryokan or tea house elevates the experience, allowing for a deeper connection to Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.
Tokyo - Kyoto operators
Explore transport companies operating between Tokyo and Kyoto, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
050-2016-1603Website
https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/
Train from Tōkyō Station to Kyōto
Average Duration
2h 17mEstimated price
$75-110Train from Nagoya Station to Kyōto
Average Duration
35mEstimated price
$29-45Contact phone
0570-048905Website
http://jrbuskanto.co.jp.e.wn.hp.transer.com
Bus from Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit to Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi
Average Duration
7h 48mEstimated price
$27-50Contact phone
0570-001631Website
http://kintetsu-bus.co.jp
Bus from Tokyo Station Yaesu Street to Kyoto Station Hachijo gate
Average Duration
7h 15mEstimated price
$40-65Website
ana.co.jp
Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Osaka Itami
Average Duration
1h 10mEstimated price
$85-270Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Kobe
Average Duration
1h 17mEstimated price
$80-260Plane from Tokyo Narita to Osaka Itami
Average Duration
1h 25mEstimated price
$90-370Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Chūbu Centrair
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$95-600Website
jal.com
Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Osaka Itami
Average Duration
1h 8mEstimated price
$65-230Plane from Tokyo Narita to Osaka Itami
Average Duration
1h 25mEstimated price
$70-240Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Chūbu Centrair
Average Duration
1h 2mEstimated price
$80-180Website
skymark.co.jp
Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Kobe
Average Duration
1h 17mEstimated price
$60-150Plane from Ibaraki to Kobe
Average Duration
1h 16mEstimated price
$50-120Contact phone
+81 78-451-0808Other from Kobe to Kyoto station
Average Duration
1hEstimated price
$180-220Tokyo to Kyoto: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey from Tokyo to Kyoto by car, spanning a driving distance of 460.3 km.
💰 Experience the flexibility and affordability of traveling between these two iconic Japanese cities by car, with prices ranging from $50 to $75 for the trip.
🌸 Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and cultural wonders of Japan as you navigate the roads from Tokyo to Kyoto in approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚄 The train journey from Tokyo to Kyoto is a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two iconic cities in Japan. With services departing every 15 minutes and taking approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes, it's a popular choice for travelers.
💸 Ticket prices for the train ride from Tokyo to Kyoto typically range from $75 to $110, offering a range of options to suit different budgets.
Departure Point
Tōkyō Station
Arrival Point
Kyōto station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Shinkansen trains from Tokyo to Kyoto include a variety of catering options. The 'Ekiben' (a Japanese lunch box) can be purchased from vendors who walk through the aisle, offering a selection that showcases regional specialties. Alternatively, the 'Food Service' option allows you to pre-order meals online or purchase snacks and drinks from vending machines in the train.
• The Shinkansen offers various seating options. The 'Green Car' (First Class) provides spacious seating with more legroom and complimentary beverages. 'Ordinary Cars' feature both 'Reserved' and 'Non-Reserved' seating in Economy Class, which is quite comfortable as well. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. For more information, visit the Japan Railways website at japanrailpass.net
• Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, you can leave your luggage at the 'Takuhaibin' (luggage delivery service) counter. They can keep your bags safely while you explore the city. The station also features clean restrooms and family-friendly amenities. To navigate from Kyoto Station to the city center, take the Karasuma Subway Line (the green line) heading north towards Kokusaikaikan and disembark at Shijo Station; this is one of the fastest routes.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Tokyo to Kyoto by taking a direct flight from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Osaka Itami Airport. Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways operate flights on this route, with a travel time of just 1 hour and 5 minutes.
🏞️ Enjoy the scenic views from the air as you make your way from Osaka to Kyoto, with the flight taking approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes.
💰 Prices for flights between Tokyo and Kyoto range from $70 to $233, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets.
Departure Point
Tokyo Haneda Airport
Arrival Point
Osaka Itami Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Opt for Japan Airlines or All Nippon Airways for direct flights from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Osaka Itami Airport, as they offer the quickest travel time of approximately 1h 5m, making it ideal for your trip to Kyoto.
• Upon arriving at Osaka Itami Airport, take the Airport Limousine Bus to Kyoto Station for a smooth and scenic ride; it takes about 1 hour and costs around ¥1,700, or consider a taxi which can cost approximately ¥15,000 to ¥20,000 depending on traffic.
• Before your trip, check local transport schedules on the Kansai Airport Transportation website (kansai-airport.or.jp) to plan your airport transfers in advance and explore dining options available onboard through the Japan Airlines (jal.co.jp) or All Nippon Airways (ana.co.jp) websites.
🚌 Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto by bus is a convenient option with direct services departing three times a day. The journey between the two cities takes approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes.
💸 Ticket prices for the bus ride from Tokyo to Kyoto range from $27 to $65, offering a budget-friendly way to travel between these two iconic Japanese cities.
Departure Point
Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit
Arrival Point
Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your bus ticket in advance on the JR Bus Kanto website to secure the best rates, as prices can range from $27 to $65 depending on demand: JR Bus Kanto.
• Bring snacks and a portable charger for your devices; the journey takes approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes, and while some buses may have amenities, it's best to be prepared for the full trip.
• Upon arrival at Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi, follow the signs for 'Chuo Exit' to get to the main concourse, where you will find easy access to public transport, dining options, and tourist information: Kyoto Station Map.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Tokyo to Kyoto.
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The distance between Tokyo and Kyoto is 373.4 km by air, but the road distance is 460.4 km. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by train, taking approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes. Other options include flying from Tokyo Haneda to Kobe and then taking a taxi, which takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes, or flying directly from Tokyo to Kyoto, which takes about 3 hours and 35 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes, while taking a bus is the longest option at 7 hours and 48 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto is by taking the bus, which ranges from $27-$65 and takes 7 hours and 48 minutes. However, the most time-efficient option is by train, which takes 2 hours and 17 minutes but costs between $75-$110.
When traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, the prices for a train ticket range from $75 to $110. On the other hand, taking a bus from Kyoto to Tokyo can cost between $27 and $65.
You can get from Tokyo to Kyoto by driving, covering a distance of approximately 460.3 km. It takes around 4 hours and 59 minutes to drive from Tokyo to Kyoto by car. The cost of driving from Tokyo to Kyoto typically ranges between $50 to $75, depending on factors like fuel prices and toll fees.
The most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto without a car is by taking a train, which typically takes 2 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $75 to $110. Another option is to opt for a bus, which is a more economical choice at $27 to $65 but takes significantly longer at 7 hours and 48 minutes. Additionally, flying is an efficient option, taking around 3 hours and 35 minutes and costing between $70 to $240.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Tokyo and Kyoto operated by Japan Railways Shinkansen. The train departs from Tōkyō Station and arrives at Kyōto, with services running every 15 minutes and taking approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus service between the two cities provided by JR Bus Kanto, departing from Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit and arriving at Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi, but this journey takes significantly longer at around 7 hours and 48 minutes.
The quickest flight from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Osaka Itami Airport, which is the closest airport to Kyoto, typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. The prices for a flight between Kyoto and Tokyo can range from $70 to $233, depending on the airline, time of booking, and season.
There are over 2400 hotels available in Kyoto with prices starting at $42 per night, offering a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Some popular areas to consider staying in Kyoto include the Higashiyama District for a traditional experience, the Gion district for a mix of old and new, or the Downtown area for a more modern stay with convenient access to shopping and dining.
Trips from Tokyo
- Tokyo to Kobe
- Tokyo to Nagoya
- Tokyo to Seoul
- Tokyo to Nagasaki
- Tokyo to Saitama
- Tokyo to Matsumoto
- Tokyo to Okinawa
- Tokyo to Hiroshima
- Tokyo to Sendai
- Tokyo to Hakuba
- Tokyo to Nagano
- Tokyo to Niseko
- Tokyo to Kamakura
- Tokyo to Sapporo
- Tokyo to Kanazawa
- Tokyo to Osaka
- Tokyo to Bangkok
- Tokyo to Yokohama (Kanagawa)
- Tokyo to Takayama (Gifu)
- Tokyo to Fuji (Shizuoka)
- Tokyo to Fukuoka (Fukuoka)
- Tokyo to Hong Kong
- Tokyo to Ishigaki (Okinawa)