Kyoto is one of Japan's most rewarding destinations, combining centuries of history with a vibrant modern city. Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to some of the country's most important temples, shrines, gardens, palaces, and traditional neighborhoods, as well as an exceptional food and cultural scene.
For first-time visitors, Kyoto can feel overwhelming: there is far more to see than can realistically fit into a few days. This guide introduces the city and helps you plan your visit, from getting to Kyoto and choosing where to stay to finding the temples, neighborhoods, cultural experiences, and seasonal highlights that best match your interests.
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As the former capital of Japan and seat of imperial power for more than one thousand years, Kyoto is one of the country's most historically and culturally important cities. Its grand temples, shrines and palaces sit alongside traditional neighborhoods, excellent dining, shopping and a vibrant modern city.
The following information focuses primarily on train travel, as Japan's extensive rail network is generally the easiest way to reach Kyoto from other parts of Japan. Where a bus or other form of public transportation offers a significantly more convenient or economical option, we include that as well. For travelers using a Japan Rail (JR) Pass, we also note where JR services can be used. Let's start with the obvious question:
Where Is Kyoto?
The former capital of Japan, Kyoto lies around 470KM west of Tokyo and approximately 45KM north-east of Osaka. The city is served by Kyoto Station, one of Japan's major railway hubs, with direct Tokaido Shinkansen services connecting Kyoto with Osaka, Nagoya and Tokyo. Kyoto is also connected to the Hokuriku region via the Limited Express Thunderbird, which runs between Kyoto and Tsuruga, where passengers can connect with the Hokuriku Shinkansen for destinations including Fukui, Kanazawa and Toyama.
For visitors arriving from elsewhere in Japan, Kyoto's central location and extensive rail connections make it one of the country's easiest cities to reach. Once here, the city offers an exceptional concentration of historic temples, shrines, gardens and palaces alongside excellent dining, shopping and traditional neighborhoods.
How To Get To Kyoto
In this section you will find information on how to reach Kyoto from the following starting points:
We focus primarily on train travel, as Japan's extensive rail network is generally the easiest way to reach Kyoto from other parts of the country. Where a bus or other form of public transportation offers a significantly more convenient or economical option, we include that as well. For travelers using a Japan Rail (JR) Pass, we also note where JR services can be used.
How to Get from Osaka to Kyoto
Getting from Osaka to Kyoto is quick and straightforward, with frequent direct JR services connecting the two cities. For most visitors, the JR Special Rapid service is the simplest option, running directly from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station in around 30 minutes. The service is covered by the Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
If you are starting from Shin-Osaka Station, the same JR Special Rapid services reach Kyoto in around 25 minutes. The Tokaido Shinkansen is also available from Shin-Osaka Station, reaching Kyoto in around 15 minutes, although the additional cost and need to travel to Shin-Osaka generally make the Special Rapid service more convenient for most visitors.
Visitors staying around Umeda, Namba or other parts of central Osaka can first make their way to Osaka Station or Shin-Osaka Station before continuing to Kyoto. From Umeda, Osaka Station is particularly convenient, while visitors around Namba can use the Osaka Metro to reach either station.
If you're in Osaka you should join us for a tour! This 1-Day walking tour highlights the best of Osaka. On this tour, you'll visit one of Japan's oldest buddhist temples, explore the history of Osaka castle, taste delicious food from Kuromon market, and experience the beauty of Ukiyoe art. Osaka is home to diverse art and museums, cutting-edge architecture, a vibrant nightlife, friendly comedy-loving locals, and countless shopping options. Join our English-speaking guide for this tour today!
How to Get from Kobe to Kyoto
Getting from Kobe to Kyoto is straightforward, with both conventional JR trains and the Shinkansen offering convenient options.
From Sannomiya Station, the simplest option is the JR Special Rapid Service bound for Kyoto or a station further east. The direct journey takes approximately 50–55 minutes and is covered by the Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
For a faster journey, travel from Sannomiya to Shin-Kobe Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway, then transfer to the Tokaido Shinkansen for Kyoto. The Shinkansen journey from Shin-Kobe to Kyoto takes approximately 30 minutes, making this a good option for travelers who prioritize speed. The Shinkansen is covered by the Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
For cruise passengers arriving at Kobe Port, first make your way from the cruise terminal to Sannomiya Station. From there, you can either take the direct JR Special Rapid service to Kyoto or continue to Shin-Kobe for the faster Shinkansen journey. If your time in Kyoto is limited, the Shinkansen option may be worthwhile.
For visitors staying elsewhere in Kobe, Sannomiya and Shin-Kobe are the two main departure points to consider when traveling to Kyoto.
Explore Kobe with Us
Make the most of your time in Kobe with our one-day tour exploring the city's highlights and hidden gems. Visit the beautiful Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, pay your respects at Ikuta Shrine, explore the lively streets of Kobe Chinatown, and discover the historic Nada sake district, one of Japan's most important sake-producing areas. It's a great way to experience Kobe's mix of nature, culture, food and sake in a single day.
How to Get from Kansai International Airport to Kyoto
From Kansai Airport, take the JR Kansai Airport Limited Express Haruka bound for Kyoto. The direct service takes approximately 80 minutes to reach Kyoto Station, with both reserved and non-reserved seating available.
The Haruka is a JR service and can be used with the Japan Rail (JR) Pass. An airport limousine bus also runs directly to Kyoto, but the Haruka is generally the fastest and simplest option for reaching Kyoto Station.
How to Get from Nara to Kyoto
Traveling from Nara to Kyoto is quick and straightforward, with both Kintetsu and JR services connecting the two cities. The best option depends on where you are starting in Nara and whether you are using a Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
Starting from Kintetsu-Nara Station: Take a Kintetsu service bound for Kyoto. Direct Express services take approximately 45–50 minutes, while Limited Express services can make the journey in around 35–40 minutes. The Kintetsu service is not covered by the JR Pass. Kintetsu-Nara Station is also conveniently located for visitors coming from Nara Park and attractions including Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha.
Starting from JR Nara Station: Take the JR Nara Line bound for Kyoto. The journey takes approximately 45–50 minutes and is covered by the JR Pass.
If you're in Nara, you should join our 1-day tour! Nara is a special place where you can experience Japan’s ancient history and culture, including world heritage sites, national treasures, and important cultural properties. Plus there are hundreds of cute deer! Discover this city with us and experience its charm for yourself.
How to Get from Nagoya to Kyoto
Nagoya Station is served by the Tokaido Shinkansen, making travel to Kyoto quick and straightforward. From Nagoya, the fastest Shinkansen services reach Kyoto Station in approximately 35 minutes, with frequent services operating throughout the day. The journey is covered by the Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
For more information about everything on offer in and around Nagoya, see our 'Nagoya & Kii Peninsula' destination page.
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How to Get from Tokyo to Kyoto
From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen bound for Kyoto. The fastest Nozomi services reach Kyoto Station in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, while Hikari services take around 2 hours and 40 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making the Shinkansen the easiest way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto.
For more information about everything on offer in the capital, see our ‘Tokyo’ destination page.
How to Get from Narita Airport to Kyoto
Narita Airport is connected to central Tokyo by the Narita Express (NEX) and Keisei Skyliner. For travelers heading directly to Kyoto, the Narita Express is the simplest option, taking you to Tokyo Station, where you can transfer to the Tokaido Shinkansen bound for Kyoto.
The Narita Express takes approximately 55 minutes to reach Tokyo Station. From there, follow the directions above for travel from Tokyo to Kyoto. The NEX and Tokaido Shinkansen are both covered by the Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
How to Get from Haneda Airport to Kyoto
It is generally faster to reach Kyoto from Tokyo's Haneda Airport than from Narita Airport. Haneda is served by both the Keikyu Line and Tokyo Monorail, but when traveling directly to Kyoto, the Keikyu Line is the most convenient option. Take the Keikyu Airport Line to Shinagawa Station, where you can transfer to the Tokaido Shinkansen bound for Kyoto.
The journey from Haneda Airport to Kyoto takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including the transfer at Shinagawa. The Shinkansen journey from Shinagawa to Kyoto takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes on the fastest services. The Japan Rail (JR) Pass can be used on the JR portion of the journey, although an additional fee is required when using the Nozomi service.
How to Get from Kanazawa to Kyoto
Traveling from Kanazawa Station to Kyoto now requires a transfer at Tsuruga Station. From Kanazawa, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga, where you can transfer to the Limited Express Thunderbird bound for Kyoto. The full journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, depending on the connection.
The transfer at Tsuruga is straightforward, with dedicated connections between the Hokuriku Shinkansen and Thunderbird services. The journey is covered by the Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
For more information about everything on offer in and around Kanazawa, see our ‘Kanazawa’ destination page.
If you're in Kanazawa, join us for this wonderful tour. Enjoy walking along the coast, exploring an uninhabited island, seeing the great cliffs and visiting National Heritage Site temples and shrines. Connect with the sea on this tour and dive into the beauty of the scenery of the coast.
How to Get from Nagano to Kyoto
1 / via Nagoya (recommended): From Nagano Station, take the Limited Express Shinano to Nagoya. Services operate approximately once per hour, with the journey taking around 3 hours. From Nagoya, transfer to the Tokaido Shinkansen for Kyoto. This route passes through Matsumoto and the Kiso Valley, making it a good option for travelers who want to visit Matsumoto Castle, the Nakasendo Trail or other destinations along the way. Once in Nagoya, follow the directions above to continue to Kyoto.
2 / via Kanazawa: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Nagano to Kanazawa, then continue via the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga. At Tsuruga, transfer to the Limited Express Thunderbird for Kyoto. This route offers the opportunity to include Kanazawa in your itinerary and uses the current Hokuriku Shinkansen–Thunderbird connection at Tsuruga.
3 / via Tokyo: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Nagano to Tokyo Station, then transfer to the Tokaido Shinkansen for Kyoto. Although this is a straightforward route, it generally involves traveling considerably farther than necessary, so the Nagoya or Kanazawa routes are usually more appealing.
For more information about everything on offer in and around Nagano City, see our ‘Nagano’ destination page.
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Join our Nagano tour today! Take in some of the highlights of Nagano on this engaging tour starting with a visit to Zenkoji – one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan – followed by sake-tasting and lunch at a nearby restaurant. It’s then time to head to the Snow Monkey Park and its world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys!
Where To Stay When Visiting Kyoto
As Japan's most historic city, Kyoto attracts millions of visitor each year. As such, it is no surprise that there is plenty of accommodation of choose from, ranging from high-end hotels and traditional guesthouses, to mid-range and budget options dotted in and around the city. Our 'Where to Stay in Kyoto & Nara' page listed the best areas including accommodation listings.
Join our Kyoto tour today and explore the highlights of Kyoto's Scenic West! Visit the world-renowned Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then take a stroll through the iconic Bamboo Forest. Next, immerse yourself in Japanese culture by making a traditional doll. Finally, end the day with visits to two of Kyoto's most stunning temples: Kinkakuji and Ryoanji.
Plan-Your-Trip-With-Us
Start with our 7-Day Kansai Japan Highlights Itinerary, which combines Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara into a balanced first visit. For more ideas, see our 40 Things to Do in Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, featuring seasonal activities, neighborhoods, and cultural experiences across the region.
Looking to explore more deeply? Our Best Tours in Kyoto and Best Tours in Osaka highlight unique cultural experiences that go beyond the usual sights. For themed travel, you can also explore our Essential Guide to Geisha in Kyoto, Cherry Blossoms in Osaka, or discover local brewing traditions in our Top 10 Sake Breweries to Visit in Kansai.
Private Charters & Tours In Central Japan
Operating all year round, we are Nagano’s No.1-rated tour and charter operator, offering a range of services including group tours, private tours and charters. We can arrange transport including a private vehicle and driver, to transport you to, from and between any destination in Central Japan.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations, in combination with any activity that suits your interests and schedule including transport to and from any destination in Central Japan. All vehicles are fitted with a protective screen – separating the driver from passenger and luggage area – and our drivers wear protective masks, allowing you to move between your destinations in comfort and safety.
We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of that experience and help you discover even more!
Why choose us?
Awarded a 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for our 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour – recognised as one of the Top 10 Experiences in Japan – we have the local knowledge and experience to help you get the most out of your time in Central Japan.
Got a question about arranging a charter or tour in Central Japan? Contact us and let’s get planning together!
