Tokyo to Kyoto with the Japan Rail Pass
Tokyo to Kyoto is the heart of Japan's golden route. With your Japan Rail Pass you ride the Tokaido Shinkansen as often as you like, past Mount Fuji and straight into the old imperial capital.
Tokyo to Kyoto at a glance
- Hikari trains in about 2 hours 40 minutes
- Several departures every hour
- Free seat reservations with your pass
- Views of Mount Fuji along the way
Which trains to take
Hikari trains on the Tokaido Shinkansen are fully included in your pass and reach Kyoto in about 2 hours 40 minutes. Kodama trains stop at every station, and Nozomi can be added with a supplementary ticket.
Where to board in Tokyo
Board at Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station. Both are served by JR lines included in your pass, such as the Yamanote line, so getting to the Shinkansen is free and easy.
Seeing Mount Fuji
Reserve a seat on the right side of the train, seat E in ordinary cars or seat D in Green cars, for the best chance of seeing Mount Fuji about 40 minutes after leaving Tokyo.
Arriving at Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station connects to the JR Nara line for Fushimi Inari and the JR Sagano line for Arashiyama, both included in your pass.
Continue to Osaka, Nara and Hiroshima
From Kyoto your pass takes you on to Osaka, Nara, Himeji and Hiroshima, so one pass covers the whole golden route and beyond.
Reserving your seat
Reserve for free at a JR ticket office or Shinkansen ticket machine. Choose a seat with an oversized luggage area if you carry a large suitcase.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from Tokyo to Kyoto?
About 2 hours 40 minutes on a Hikari train.
Is the Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen included in the JR Pass?
Yes. Hikari and Kodama trains are fully included, and Nozomi can be ridden with a supplementary ticket.
Which side has the Mount Fuji view?
The right side when traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, seat E in ordinary cars.
Do I need a seat reservation?
Reservations are free with your pass and recommended, especially in busy seasons.
Can I use the pass for sightseeing in Kyoto?
Yes. JR lines in Kyoto, such as the Nara and Sagano lines, are included.
Start your golden route
Order your Japan Rail Pass and travel from Tokyo to Kyoto as often as you like.