Riding the SHINKANSEN: Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka

Experience the Speed of the Shinkansen

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, one of the best experiences you can have is traveling on the Shinkansen, the Japanese bullet train. It not only travels at impressive speeds but also a clean and comfortable travel experience.

Time Required for Tokyo - Kyoto

Traveling from Tokyo to either Kyoto or Osaka on the Shinkansen is fast and efficient. If you’re heading to Kyoto, you can expect the trip to take about 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on which service you choose. If Osaka is your destination, you can arrive from Tokyo in just around 3 hours (15 minutes from Kyoto).

The Shinkansen offers several types of trains. The Nozomi train is the fastest, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph) and making fewer stops (Shin-Yokohama and Nagoya) along the way, while the Hikari and Kodama services make more frequent stops.

What to Know Before You Go

Booking your Shinkansen ticket in advance is a smart move, especially during peak travel seasons (Golden week in late April to early May, August during the Obon season and late December to early January). You can purchase your tickets online or at the stations. Be sure to check for the Japan Rail Pass if you plan to do multiple trips across the country—it could save you a lot of money!