How to get from Kyoto to Tokyo

Going from the former capital of Kyoto to the current capital of Tokyo can be like traveling through time. Much of Kyoto’s historic sites are preserved in the form of its traditional streets, districts, and 17 UNESCO heritage sites. Additionally, it’s a city with fairly strict height limits on its buildings, so transitioning to Tokyo, with its sprawl of tall skyscrapers and densely packed neighborhoods, can be jarring.

Trip Duration Approx. 2 hours 15 mins
First & Last Departure 6:00 AM/9:24 PM
💶 Cost From 13,080 yen
🚆 Distance 445 kilometers
🚉 Departing/Arriving Station Kyoto Station/
Shinagawa or Tokyo Station
Nozomi Shinkansen Bullet TrainMizuho Shinkansen Bullet TrainHikari Shinkansen Bullet TrainKodama Shinkansen Bullet Train

Reserve Shinkansen tickets from Kyoto to Tokyo!

READ MORE ABOUT SEAT RESERVATIONS // How to Reserve Seats on the Train in Japan

Oversized Baggage on the Shinkansen

For travelers with large baggage, there are certain requirements that must be met to bring it onto the bullet train. Per Japan Railway regulation, baggage that exceeds a sum of 160cm in dimension (L x W x H) must be placed in the designated oversized baggage section located in the back of the train car, and the owners of such baggage must reserve seats nearby this space. Note that any baggage that exceeds 250cm in total dimensions is not allowed on the Shinkansen at all.

Exceptions for these baggage rules include things like baby carriages, musical instruments in cases, and sports equipment (like bikes, snowboards, etc.) that are also in cases.

Dimensions for luggage on the Shinkansen bullet train

READ MORE ABOUT OVERSIZED BAGGAGE RULE // New Luggage Reservation Rules for the Shinkansen

Utilize Kyoto's distinctive topography by spending some time on a leisurely walk to take in the scenery. One of the easier hikes in the area leads to Chion-in Temple and takes around two hours from Shogunzuka to Seiryuden. Enjoy an unrestricted perspective of the city from a high vantage point and discover Kyoto in a way you never would have imagined.

When departing from Kyoto Station in the heart of the historic capital, tourists heading to Tokyo must do so. Not many towns in the world can match Kyoto's distinction of being the first city to commemorate its 1200th anniversary—a feat that was accomplished in 1997 when the station underwent its current design by renowned architect Hiroshi Hara. There are a few restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores within, although the space is not as big as Tokyo Station.

Kyoto

@sorasak-_UIN, Unsplash

And speaking of these train stations, Tokyo’s well-developed and far-reaching train network is perfect for getting to where you need to go and made only easier for holders of the Japan Rail Pass. Using major stations such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo, or Ikebukuro Stations as a central hub, much of the city is widely accessible via the many train lines, from the ones operated by JR to the Subway Metro System. It’s easy to choose a train station you may be unfamiliar with and take the opportunity to discover a new neighborhood. There are charming cafes, stylish shops, and a medley of other attractions to go out and see.

For traveling foodies, Tokyo is an essential destination, home to an endless array of quality restaurants, from unassuming local shops to world-famous establishments.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

@Wikimedia

Shinkansen from Kyoto

Shinkansen from Kyoto

@Wikimedia

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