Kyoto, Japan’s historic capital, is famous for its temples, shrines, traditional streets, and beautiful gardens. Located 130 km (81 miles) west of Nagoya, Kyoto is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train), local train, highway bus, or car. 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 Nagoya to Kyoto:
- By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Local Train: A budget-friendly but slower alternative.
- By Highway Bus: The cheapest option.
- By Car: The most flexible but expensive choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Nagoya to Kyoto.
Timetable
| Train Nagoya - Kyoto ¥ 4,986–8,545 34m – 2h 40m | |
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| Bus Nagoya - Kyoto ¥ 2,656–6,047 2h 30m – 5h 20m | |
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By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Nagoya to Kyoto is the quickest and easiest way to travel.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Nagoya Station.
- Arrival Station: Kyoto Station.
- Duration: 33 to 52 minutes, depending on train type.
- Price: 5,170 JPY (Unreserved Seat) – 5,500 JPY (Reserved Seat) (~$35–$38 USD).
- Shinkansen Types:
- Nozomi (Fastest, 33 minutes, fewest stops, not covered by JR Pass).
- Hikari (Mid-speed, 36 minutes, covered by JR Pass).
- Kodama (Slowest, 52 minutes, many stops, covered by JR Pass).
- Departure Frequency: Multiple trains per hour from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- JR Pass Valid: Yes, but only for Hikari and Kodama trains.
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~33 minutes on Nozomi Shinkansen).
- Comfortable and spacious seating.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Nozomi Shinkansen is not covered by the JR Pass.
- More expensive than local trains or buses.
Booking Tip:
For the fastest travel, take the Nozomi Shinkansen. For JR Pass holders, take the Hikari Shinkansen instead. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Local Train: A Budget-Friendly but Slower Alternative
For travelers who want to save money and don’t mind a longer journey, taking a local train from Nagoya to Kyoto is an option.
Key Details:
- Route: Nagoya → Kyoto via Tokaido Main Line (JR Local Train).
- Departure Station: Nagoya Station.
- Arrival Station: Kyoto Station.
- Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Price: 2,640 JPY (~$18 USD).
- Train Operator: JR Central.
- Seating Options: No reserved seats, first come, first served.
- Departure Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheaper than the Shinkansen.
- No need to reserve a seat.
Cons:
- Takes significantly longer than the bullet train.
- Crowded during rush hours.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, avoid peak travel times (7:00–9:00 AM & 5:00–7:00 PM). Use our online search form to check train schedules.
By Highway Bus: The Cheapest Option
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a highway bus from Nagoya to Kyoto is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than the train.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center (near Nagoya Station).
- Nagoya Kintetsu Bus Terminal.
- Arrival Point: Kyoto Station Bus Terminal.
- Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 1,500–3,000 JPY (~$10–$20 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Willer Express (budget option).
- Meitetsu Bus.
- JR Bus (comfortable, JR Pass discount available).
- Bus Types:
- Standard Bus (Cheaper, fewer amenities).
- Premium Bus (More legroom, reclining seats, blankets).
- Departure Frequency: Multiple departures per day, including overnight options.
Pros:
- Cheaper than trains (~1,500 JPY for budget buses).
- Overnight buses available (save on hotel costs).
Cons:
- Takes twice as long as the Shinkansen.
- Traffic congestion may cause delays.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a premium bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, renting a car from Nagoya to Kyoto is an option, especially if you want to stop at scenic spots along the way.
Key Details:
- Route: Nagoya → Kyoto via Meishin Expressway.
- Distance: 130 km (81 miles).
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
- Toll Fees:
3,500 JPY ($24 USD). - Gasoline Cost:
2,000 JPY ($14 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 freshwater lake (~30-minute detour).
- Sekigahara Battlefield – Historic site of the famous 1600 battle (~45-minute detour).
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Comfortable for groups and families.
Cons:
- More expensive than trains and buses.
- Traffic can increase travel time.
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.
Final Tips for Traveling from Nagoya to Kyoto
- Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Shinkansen (~33 minutes, from 5,170 JPY).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Highway Bus (~1,500 JPY, 2.5+ hours).
- Best Option for Flexibility & Scenic Stops: Rental Car (~10,000 JPY, 2+ hours, tolls included).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Trains, buses, and rental cars sell out quickly during cherry blossom season (March–April) and autumn (October–November).
