How to get from Kyoto to Takayama

Takayama, located in Gifu Prefecture, is known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, traditional wooden houses, and the beautiful Japanese Alps. Situated 270 km (168 miles) northeast of Kyoto, Takayama is accessible by train, bus, car, or guided tour. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Kyoto to Takayama:

• By Train (via Nagoya): The fastest and most comfortable option.
• By Bus: A budget-friendly but longer alternative.
• By Private Car or Rental Car: The most flexible way to explore the Japanese Alps.
• By Guided Tour: A stress-free way to explore Takayama and nearby Shirakawa-go.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Kyoto to Takayama.

Timetable

By Train (via Nagoya): The Fastest and Most Comfortable Option

Since there is no direct train from Kyoto to Takayama, the fastest route is to take the Shinkansen to Nagoya and then transfer to the Limited Express Hida train.

Step 1: Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya

• Departure Station: Kyoto Station.
• Arrival Station: Nagoya Station.
• Duration: 35–50 minutes.
• Price: 5,170 JPY (Unreserved Seat) – 5,560 JPY (Reserved Seat) (~$35–$40 USD).
• Train Type: Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama).
• Departure Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Step 2: Take the Limited Express Hida from Nagoya to Takayama

• Departure Station: Nagoya Station.
• Arrival Station: Takayama Station.
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Price: 5,610 JPY (~$38 USD).
• Train Operator: JR Central (Japan Rail Pass valid).
• Departure Frequency: About 7 trains per day.

Total Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours.

Total Price: 10,780 JPY (~$73 USD).

Pros:

• Fastest way to Takayama.
• Comfortable Shinkansen and scenic ride on the Hida train.
• Japan Rail Pass covers the entire journey.

Cons:

• Requires a transfer at Nagoya.
• Hida Limited Express has limited departures.

Booking Tip:

For the best experience, book a reserved seat on the Limited Express Hida to enjoy panoramic mountain views. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Bus: A Budget-Friendly but Longer Alternative

For budget travelers, taking a direct highway bus from Kyoto to Takayama is an affordable and comfortable alternative.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit (Main Bus Terminal).
• Arrival Point: Takayama Nohi Bus Terminal (next to Takayama Station).
• Duration: 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 5,500–6,500 JPY (~$38–$45 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • Nohi Bus (most reliable).
  • Meitetsu Bus.
• Bus Types:
  • Standard Bus (Cheaper, less legroom).
  • Premium Bus (Reclining seats, more space, blankets provided).
• Departure Frequency: 2–3 daily departures.

Pros:

• Cheaper than the train.
• Direct service with no transfers needed.
• Comfortable reclining seats on premium buses.

Cons:

• Takes longer than the train.
• Traffic delays possible.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a premium bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Rental Car: The Most Flexible Way to Explore the Japanese Alps

For travelers who prefer flexibility and scenic routes, renting a car from Kyoto to Takayama is a great choice.

Key Details:

• Route: Kyoto → Takayama via Meishin Expressway & Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway.
• Distance: 270 km (168 miles).
• Duration: 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on stops.
• Toll Fees: 5,000 JPY ($35 USD).
• Gasoline Cost: 4,000 JPY ($30 USD).
• Car Rental Price: 6,000–12,000 JPY per day (~$40–$85 USD).
• Rental Car Companies:
  • Toyota Rent-a-Car.
  • Nippon Rent-a-Car.
  • Times Car Rental.

Optional Scenic Stops Along the Way:

• Lake Biwa – Japan’s largest lake, perfect for a short break.
• Shirakawa-go – A UNESCO-listed village famous for its thatched-roof houses.
• Gero Onsen – A famous hot spring town along the route.

Pros:

• Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
• Great for groups and families.

Cons:

• Driving in Japan requires an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• Expensive toll fees and parking in Takayama.

Booking Tip:

For ease of navigation, rent a car with GPS or use Google Maps. Use our online search form to compare rental car prices.

By Guided Tour: A Stress-Free Way to Explore Takayama

For travelers who want a hassle-free experience with expert insights, joining a guided tour from Kyoto to Takayama is a great option.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Pickup from designated hotels in Kyoto.
• Duration: Full-day tour (10–12 hours).
• Price: 12,000–18,000 JPY (~$85–$130 USD).
• Includes:
  • Round-trip transportation.
  • Visits to Takayama’s old town, sake breweries, and morning markets.
  • Optional add-on for Shirakawa-go.
  • English-speaking guide.

Pros:

• Convenient, no need to plan transport.
• Includes admission to key attractions.

Cons:

• Less flexibility compared to solo travel.

Booking Tip:

Book at least a day in advance to secure a spot. Use our online search form to find available tours.

Final Tips for Traveling from Kyoto to Takayama

• Best Option for Speed: Train via Nagoya (3.5 hours, from 10,780 JPY).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~5,500 JPY, 4.5+ hours).
• Best Option for Scenic Views: Rental Car (~10,000 JPY, 3.5+ hours, stops along the way).
• Best for Comfort & Hassle-Free Travel: Guided Tour (~12,000 JPY, includes sightseeing stops).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Trains and buses sell out quickly during holidays and Takayama’s festivals.