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Kyoto, Kyoto to Tokyo, Tokyo City Area from $17: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Kyoto, Japan
to
Tokyo, Japan

How to Get from Kyoto to Tokyo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$17 by busBest price
373.6 kmDistance
2h 18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kyoto to Tokyo 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.

Company
Japan Railways Shinkansen
Train
Average Duration
2h  18m
Estimated price
$75-110
Recommended
Company
JAMJAM LINER
Bus
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$17-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 373.6 km
Duration: 2h 18m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
JR Bus Kanto
Bus
Average Duration
7h  51m
Estimated price
$27-50
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  56m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$71-233
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$95-299
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$111-213
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  38m
Estimated price
$251-370

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $48 $38 $36 $35 $41 $45 $55
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Traveling From Kyoto to Tokyo

The journey from Kyoto to Tokyo offers you a striking shift from the tranquil temples and traditional tea houses of the ancient capital to the bustling streets and modern skyscrapers of Japan's dynamic metropolis.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tokyo

Tokyo's neighborhoods each offer distinctive experiences and atmospheres for visitors.

Shibuya
• Iconic Shibuya Crossing bustling with energy.
• Trendy shops and vibrant nightlife await you.
Harajuku
• Famous for unique fashion and street culture.
• Discover quirky cafes and colorful boutiques.
Asakusa
• Home to the historic Senso-ji Temple.
• Traditional shopping streets enhance cultural immersion.

Best Times To Visit Tokyo's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Tokyo.

Tokyo Tower
Visit early in the morning to enjoy breathtaking views with fewer tourists.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Weekdays in spring offer peaceful cherry blossom views without the weekend crowds.
Akihabara
Explore on weekday afternoons for a quieter experience in the electronics district.

Tokyo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tokyo experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons; spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant weather for exploration. Understanding the seasonal variations can help you pack appropriately and plan activities to fully enjoy your stay.

Tokyo Dining Recommendation

For a true taste of Tokyo, try the vibrant flavors of a yakitori restaurant, where grilled skewers of chicken and seasonal vegetables are served with a lively atmosphere that contrasts with Kyoto's refined kaiseki dining. This experience highlights Tokyo's love for casual, street-style dining, showcasing bold seasonings and local ingredients that reflect the city's dynamic culinary scene.

Kyoto - Tokyo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Kyoto and Tokyo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
050-2016-1603
Website
https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/

Train from Kyōto to Tōkyō Station

Average Duration
2h 18m
Estimated price
$75-110
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0570-048905
Website
http://jrbuskanto.co.jp.e.wn.hp.transer.com

Bus from Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi to Tokyo Station Nihonbashi Exit

Average Duration
7h 51m
Estimated price
$27-50
Contact phone
050-3802-1544
Website
http://jamjamliner.jp

Bus from Minami-Kusatsu to Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesu

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$15-65
Plane Show flights
Website
ana.co.jp

Plane from Kobe (UKB) to Tokyo Haneda (HND)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$80-260

Plane from Osaka Itami (ITM) to Tokyo Haneda (HND)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$85-270

Plane from Osaka Itami (ITM) to Tokyo Narita (NRT)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$90-370

Plane from Chūbu Centrair (NGO) to Tokyo Haneda (HND)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$95-600
Website
jal.com

Plane from Osaka Itami (ITM) to Tokyo Haneda (HND)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$65-230

Plane from Osaka Itami (ITM) to Tokyo Narita (NRT)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$70-240

Plane from Chūbu Centrair (NGO) to Tokyo Haneda (HND)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$80-180
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Kyoto Station to Kobe

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$180-220

Kyoto to Tokyo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Kyoto and Tokyo 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 scenic road trip from Kyoto to Tokyo, covering a distance of 286 miles, with a driving time of approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes. Enjoy the picturesque countryside views and modern expressways as you cruise towards the bustling capital city. 💲 Experience the flexibility of choosing between different price ranges, with car travel costs varying from $50 to $75 for the journey from Kyoto to Tokyo. This allows you to tailor your travel budget based on your preferences and needs, making the trip even more convenient and accessible.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚄 Experience a smooth and convenient train journey from Kyōto to Tōkyō! Japan Railways Shinkansen operates direct services departing every 15 minutes, ensuring frequent departures for travelers. In just 2 hours and 18 minutes, you'll arrive at the bustling Tōkyō Station. 💰 Ticket prices for the train journey between Kyoto and Tokyo typically range from $75 to $110, making it an affordable and cost-effective mode of transportation. With the convenience of frequent departures and a relatively short travel time, taking the train is a popular choice for those looking to explore different cities in Japan efficiently.
Departure Point
Kyōto station
Arrival Point
Tōkyō Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On board the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Kyoto to Tokyo, you can enjoy various catering services, including a bento box ('eki-bento') featuring local delicacies, available from vendors at the station before boarding. You may also find snack and beverage carts on longer trains—look for options like green tea, sake, and traditional Japanese sweets, or try the famous 'Tokyo Banana' cake, a popular sweet originating from Tokyo.
• For the Kyoto to Tokyo route, the primary operators are the Japan Railways (JR) Group, including the JR Central. The seating options available include: 'Green Car' (First Class) offers spacious seating with extra legroom, 'Ordinary Car' (Business Class), and 'Standard Car' (Economy) which provide comfortable seating for budget travelers. For more information, check the following websites: JR Central - global.jr-central.co.jp, and Hyperdia for schedules - hyperdia.com
• Upon arrival at Tokyo Station, be prepared for a large, bustling environment. One useful tip is to utilize the station's luggage services, which offer coin lockers (available in various sizes) where you can securely store your bags. The restrooms are plentiful, and some stations have multi-purpose washrooms. If you want to freshen up, look for nearby hotels or facilities offering day-use showers. For navigating the station, follow the clearly marked signs in English, or use the Tokyo Station app for real-time updates.
• The fastest way to reach central Tokyo from Tokyo Station is to take the JR Yamanote Line, which connects various key locations, including Shibuya and Shinjuku. Alternatively, you can take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line directly to Shinjuku Station. Both options take around 10-15 minutes. For the Yamanote Line, simply head to the platform for trains going towards 'Shinjuku' or 'Shibuya'.
🛫 Flying from Kyoto to Tokyo is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with flight times of around 1 hour and 10 minutes from Kobe Airport to Tokyo Haneda Airport. 💸 The cost of a flight from Kyoto to Tokyo can range from $71 to $233, providing travelers with a range of options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Kobe Airport
Arrival Point
Tokyo Haneda Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with All Nippon Airways or Skymark Airlines for the quickest and most convenient routes, as both airlines offer direct flights from Kobe Airport to Tokyo Haneda Airport, taking around 1h 10m.
• Upon arrival at Tokyo Haneda Airport, use the Airport Transit System to navigate seamlessly to the city center; it’s user-friendly, and the signs are in English, making it easy to find the connections to the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line.
• Expect taxi fares from Haneda Airport to central Tokyo to be approximately ¥4,000 to ¥5,000 (about $30 to $40), but consider using public transport like the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line as a more economical and efficient option with services running every few minutes.
🌸 Enjoy a comfortable ride on the bus provided by JR Bus Kanto, with the journey taking approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes. Relax and take in the scenic views as you travel from Kyoto to Tokyo. 💰 Prices for the bus between Tokyo and Kyoto range from $17 to $80, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers. Consider taking the bus to experience a hassle-free journey between these two vibrant cities in Japan.
Departure Point
Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi
Arrival Point
Tokyo Station Nihonbashi Exit
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your bus tickets in advance through the JR Bus Kanto website to secure a good price, as fares can vary significantly between $17 and $80 depending on seat availability and demand.
• While on the bus, enjoy the scenic views of the Japanese countryside and plan for a break; you'll be traveling for approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch will enhance your comfort, as service facilities can be limited on route.
• Upon arrival at Tokyo Station's Nihonbashi Exit, familiarize yourself with the station's layout using the Tokyo Station map available here, as it can be quite busy and navigating the various exits and lines can be overwhelming, especially during peak hours.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kyoto to Tokyo.

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The cheapest way to travel from Kyoto to Tokyo is by bus. The bus fare ranges from $27 to $50, depending on the operator and the type of seat. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes. Buses are a cost-effective option for budget travelers looking to explore Japan's major cities.
The fastest way to travel from Kyoto to Tokyo is by taking a train. The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is the most efficient mode of transportation for this route. It takes approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes to reach Tokyo from Kyoto. The cost of a Shinkansen ticket ranges from $75 to $110, depending on the type of train and seating class you choose.
The distance between Kyoto and Tokyo is approximately 232 miles. If you were to travel by road, the distance would be around 286 miles. However, this can vary depending on the route you choose to take. The travel time between the two cities can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose, such as by train, bus, or airplane.
The best way to travel from Kyoto to Tokyo without a car is by taking a train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes, which is a quick and convenient option. The cost of a train ticket ranges from $75 to $110, depending on the class and type of train chosen. There are frequent train services available, allowing you to easily plan your trip and explore the beautiful scenery of Japan along the way.
The train from Kyoto to Tokyo takes approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes, including transfers. Trains depart every 15 minutes, providing frequent and convenient options for travelers. However, please note that travel times may vary depending on the specific train and schedule. It is always recommended to check the latest timetable and plan accordingly for any potential delays or disruptions.
There are over 1330 hotels available in Tokyo, offering a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Tokyo start at $36 per night, with options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Some popular areas to stay in Tokyo include Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza, which offer convenient access to major attractions and transportation hubs. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and get the best deals.
Yes, you can drive from Kyoto to Tokyo. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 286 miles. It takes about 4 hours and 56 minutes to drive from Kyoto to Tokyo, depending on traffic and the route you take. It is recommended to have an International Driving Permit if you plan to drive in Japan.
Yes, there is a direct bus route between Kyoto and Tokyo. The bus departs from Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi station and arrives at Tōkyo Station Nihonbashi Exit station. The service operates six times a week, from Monday to Saturday. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes.
To catch the bus from Kyoto to Tokyo you will need to go to Kyōto Station Karasumaguchi. This is the departure point for the bus services operated by JR Bus Kanto. Ensure that you arrive at the station early to find your designated bus and complete any necessary ticketing or boarding procedures. The bus departure point is conveniently located near the Kyoto Station, making it easily accessible for travelers.
The bus from Kyoto to Tokyo arrives at Tōkyo Station Nihonbashi Exit. This is a convenient location in Tokyo, which is a major transportation hub and easily accessible to various parts of the city. From Tōkyo Station, travelers can easily connect to other modes of transportation such as trains, subways, and taxis to reach their final destination in Tokyo. It also allows for easy access to popular attractions and accommodations in the city.
All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines are the two main airlines that offer flights between Kyoto and Tokyo. These airlines provide frequent direct flights that take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is recommended to check their websites or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date flight schedules and pricing options.
The fastest way to get from Kyoto to Tokyo is by plane. There are direct flights from Osaka Itami Airport to Tokyo Haneda Airport, offered by All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. Flying is the quickest and most convenient option for traveling between these two cities.
The flight from Kyoto to Tokyo takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. The fastest and most convenient option is to take a direct flight from Osaka Itami Airport to Tokyo Haneda Airport. This flight offers a quick travel time, allowing you to reach your destination efficiently. It is advisable to check with airlines for any possible schedule changes or updates before planning your trip.
Trains from Kyoto to Tokyo arrive at Tōkyō station. Tōkyō station is a major transportation hub in Tokyo and is well-connected to various parts of the city and beyond. It is located in the Marunouchi business district and is easily accessible to popular attractions and accommodation options in Tokyo. From Tōkyō station, travelers can conveniently transfer to other modes of transportation or access different areas of the city.
Yes, there is a direct train between Kyoto and Tokyo. The train departs from Kyoto and arrives at Tokyo. The trains operate every day and depart every 15 minutes. The journey from Kyoto to Tokyo takes approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes.
To catch the train from Kyoto to Tokyo, head to Kyōto station. This is where the train services operated by Japan Railways Shinkansen depart from. The station is well connected and easily accessible, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding it. Once you arrive at the station, look for the signs or information desk to guide you to the correct platform for the train bound to Tokyo.
The cost of a train ticket from Kyoto to Tokyo usually ranges from $75 to $110. However, prices can vary depending on the class of service, type of train, and whether you choose reserved or non-reserved seating. It's recommended to check pricing and availability in advance, and consider booking a seat reservation if you prefer a specific time or class.
The cost of a bus ticket from Kyoto to Tokyo can range from $17 to $75, depending on the bus company and the class of service chosen. Prices may vary based on factors such as time of travel, holidays, and availability. It is recommended to book in advance or check different bus operators to find the best price for your travel dates.
The cost to drive from Kyoto to Tokyo can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees. On average, you can expect to pay around $50 to $75 for fuel and tolls. Keep in mind that this estimate may change based on the type of car you are driving and the specific route you take. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and budget for potential expenses when considering driving between Kyoto and Tokyo.