Train Tickets from Kyoto to Tokyo

121 Number
of daily departures
2h20 Shortest
travel duration
$101 Our best
available price
06:00 / 21:24 Earliest / Latest
departure time

More information about your journey to Tokyo

kyoto tokyo train map

Upon arrival, Tokyo Station stands as a gateway to Japan's modern capital, miles away from Kyoto's old capital ambiance. From the iconic and vibrant Shibuya and Shinjuku neighborhoods to the glits and glamor of Roppongi or Ginza, going through the pop culture lovers' haven Akihabara, Tokyo showcases why thousands flock to visit Japan every year. In between the neon-lit streets of Kabukicho and the high-rise buildings of Tokyo's dynamic downtown districts, traditional gardens, historic temples, and shrines also offer unexpected moments of serenity, showing that Tokyo truly has something in store for everyone.

Whether you're a pop culture enthusiast, a food lover, or someone seeking an urban getaway, the Kyoto to Tokyo Shinkansen journey offers a seamless blend of modern travel convenience and the timeless allure of Japan's cultural heritage. And with Tokyo being the heart of Japan's transportation network, it's also the gateway to many other regional treasures, from the shores of Chiba Prefecture to the Japanese Alps to the popular day trip destination Nikko and its sublime natural landscapes, or the traditional, rural and preserved Tohoku region. 

Note: Kyoto Station is usually not the first stop on this Shinkansen line, which can originate from Kobe, Hiroshima, or even Hakata (Fukuoka). Please be mindful of this and preferably book reserved seat tickets to ensure you can hop on your desired train, especially during peak travel times, Kyoto and Tokyo being such popular destinations. 

The Tokaido Shinkansen Line is operated by Japan Railways (JR), the largest rail company in Japan. Tickets booked through Japan Experience are issued in partnership with JR West, ensuring a direct connection with the train operator that will take you from Kyoto to Tokyo.

More about the Mount Fuji view seat option

mount fuji view seat shinkansen

When taking the train from Kyoto to Tokyo, we highly recommend you book a window seat with a view on Mount Fuji, to get the chance to experience one of Japan's most iconic views from its modern landmark, the Shinkansen bullet train!

Please note that during peak travel seasons, we may have to change your train to another one up to 15 minutes earlier or later than the original booking to ensure a window seat reservation.

Advantages of taking the train from Kyoto to Tokyo

shinkansen nozomi 700s jr central
Efficiency

Covering the distance of 500km between Kyoto and Tokyo in a little over 2 hours, Shinkansen bullet trains are one of the fastest ways to reach your destination relaxed and worry-free. 

shinkansen 700s interior seat seating japan train nozomi jr central
Comfort

Comfortable seats, plenty of space to relax your legs, regularly cleaned carriages and peace and quiet for a relaxing journey. 

shinkansen driver agent jr
Reliability

With hundreds of departures per day and an average delay per train estimated at 24 seconds, the Shinkansen is very reliable. 

shinkansen 700s nozomi eco friendly green
Eco-friendly

Your Kyoto to Tokyo itinerary corresponds to 15kg of CO2 emissions by Shinkansen, compared to 125kg by plane on the same journey. Traveling by train is 8 times more eco-responsible than flying!

How to book your Kyoto to Tokyo train tickets?

Pick your date, time and seat

You can book up to 9 months prior to your travel date.

Confirm and purchase

Order your train ticket securely online.

Receive your QR code

Get your QR code by email 1 month before departure.

Exchange and enjoy

Follow the instructions received on how to exchange your QR code and enjoy your ride.

tokyo kyoto train map new

More information about your train, Kyoto Station and Tokyo Station

Different types of Shinkansen available

When traveling from Kyoto to Tokyo, you have the option to choose between three types of Shinkansen high-speed bullet trains: Hikari, Kodama, and Nozomi. Hikari trains make fewer stops and complete the trip in about 2 hours and 40 minutes. Kodama trains stop at more stations, resulting in a journey time of a little over 3 hours and 30 minutes. The Nozomi is the fastest option, as it is an express service, but it comes at a higher cost. It's important to note that this Nozomi Shinkansen train only operates with reserved seats.

Regardless of the train type, passengers can enjoy reclinable seats, overhead storage, power outlets, and more onboard. Traveling by Shinkansen from Kyoto to Tokyo ensures both efficiency and comfort. It is recommended to research all seat and car options to book a train ticket that suits your travel needs.

How to get to Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station, situated in the heart of the historic Japanese capital, is conveniently connected to various local public transportation lines in and around Kyoto operated by JR or Kintetsu, the regional rail operator in the Kansai region. Additionally, the Karasuma subway line serves Kyoto Station. The extensive bus network in Kyoto is centered around Kyoto Station, providing easy access to the station from any part of the city.

Where to go from Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is located in the central area of Tokyo and serves as a major transportation hub for various local public transportation lines. It is the main departure point for Shinkansen trains in Tokyo. Tokyo Station is served by multiple JR lines, including the Yamanote, Chuo, Keiyo, and Sobu lines. The Marunouchi subway line, as well as several bus lines and airport transfer options, also have stops at Tokyo Station. From Tokyo Station, you can conveniently travel to any destination within the Tokyo Metropolitan Area or even continue your journey by boarding another Shinkansen train.

Why book your train tickets with Japan Experience?

Official seller

Our train tickets are issued through an official partnership with the National Japan Railways Group (JR).

Secure payment

You're in control! We offer different payment options.

Quality at our core

Our team of passionate individuals based in Japan works with you directly, no intermediary needed.

Customer support

We're here to help, 7/7. And available through all channels. 

Read more about the exchange process, conditions and validity of train tickets here

How far in advance can I book train tickets?

You can book train tickets in Japan between 9 months prior to your train's departure date and 3 days before departure. 

Is there a special train ticket fare for children?

Yes, there are special fares applicable for children. Ages 12 and up are considered adults, but kids aged from 6 to 11 benefit from a reduced child fare. Children under the age of 6 travel for free. This free fare is limited to 2 tickets, meaning any additional child under 6 will then pay the classic child fare. 

Where to exchange your train tickets in Japan depending on the region?

train tickets japan exchange map

In the JR West area (blue), you can exchange your QR code for a physical train ticket at reserved seat ticket machines in stations, or at Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket windows with station staff. In the JR Central area (orange), you can exchange your QR code at reserved seat ticket vending machines at indicated stations. In the JR East area (green), you can exchange your train tickets at Shinkansen stations, major stations in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and Narita Airport stations. 

How to use your train tickets in Japan? 

To use your train tickets once you have exchanged them, simply head to Kyoto Station, insert your train ticket into the automatic gates (don't forget to take it back), and head to the right platform to hop on your train. On board the train, find the seat number that is on your ticket if you have a seat reservation, and enjoy the ride from Kyoto to Tokyo! Once you've arrived, insert the ticket again at the gates upon exiting, and Japan's capital is now yours to explore. 

Modification and Cancellation

You can find the conditions of modification and cancellation of our train tickets in our “Frequently Asked Questions” section at the bottom of the page.

Eligibility

All persons above the age of 12, with no restrictions of residence status or nationality, are eligible to buy individual train tickets (unlike the Japan Rail Pass and some JR regional passes, for example). Japanese individuals as well as foreigners living in Japan can thus purchase train tickets online. Under the age of 12, the aforementioned child fare conditions apply. 

Validity of train tickets

Train tickets issued are only valid for the date and time indicated on your booking, and are to be used only on the Kyoto to Tokyo route. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Train Tickets in Japan