Kyoto is not only the cultural heart of Japan, but also a highly convenient transportation hub with easy access to destinations all over the country.
Of course, local train lines operated by JR and private railways can take you to many places, but in this article, we’ll focus specifically on long-distance travel using Shinkansen (bullet trains) and Limited Express trains, which offer faster and more comfortable journeys.
Major Destinations Accessible from Kyoto Station (Shinkansen & Limited Express Trains)
1. Tokyo (Shinkansen)
The Tokaido Shinkansen "Nozomi" takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. With multiple trains running every hour, it offers a fast and comfortable way to reach the capital. It also passes through Nagoya, Shizuoka, and Yokohama along the way.
2. Nagoya (Shinkansen)
Reachable in about 35 minutes by Shinkansen.
From here, you can continue your journey to Hida-Takayama via the Takayama Line, or head to Nagano Prefecture (Matsumoto, Nagano City) via the Shinano Limited Express. It’s a key gateway to central Japan.
3. Osaka, Kobe, Himeji (JR Lines / Limited Express)
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Osaka: About 30 minutes by JR Kyoto Line Rapid. Local trains are slower and not recommended if you're heading to central Osaka.
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Kobe: About 1 hour by JR Kyoto Line Rapid. The Shinkansen is not recommended as it doesn't save time due to limited stops.
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Himeji: The Shinkansen is recommended for this route, taking about 50 minutes. Don’t miss the famous Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Nara (Kintetsu Limited Express)
Around 40–45 minutes via Kintetsu Limited Express. Known as the cradle of Japanese Buddhism, Nara is home to highlights like Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park with its free-roaming deer.
5. Kanazawa (Thunderbird + Hokuriku Shinkansen)
Take the Limited Express "Thunderbird" from Kyoto to Tsuruga, then transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen to reach Kanazawa. The full journey takes around 2.5 hours. Kanazawa is known for its traditional crafts, contemporary art, and refined sweets culture.
6. Maizuru / Kinosaki Onsen (Limited Express Trains)
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Maizuru: A scenic port town on the Sea of Japan coast. About 2 hours via the Limited Express "Maizuru".
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Kinosaki Onsen: A popular hot spring town in Hyogo Prefecture. About 2.5 hours via the Limited Express "Kinosaki", known for its traditional bathhouses and yukata culture.
7. Ise-Shima (Kintetsu Limited Express)
Take the Kintetsu Limited Express with a transfer to reach Ise, Toba, and Shima. This area is famous for the sacred Ise Grand Shrine and its beautiful coastal scenery. Approx. 3 hours from Kyoto.
8. Hiroshima (Shinkansen)
The Nozomi Shinkansen takes you to Hiroshima in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Top sights include the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Itsukushima Shrine on nearby Miyajima Island.
9. Kyushu (Shinkansen to Hakata, Kumamoto, Kagoshima)
From Kyoto, the Shinkansen provides smooth access to major cities in Kyushu, with transfers typically in Shin-Osaka or Hakata.
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Hakata (Fukuoka): About 3 hours
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Kumamoto: About 3 hrs 45 min
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Kagoshima-Chuo: About 4 hrs 30 min
Even over long distances, Shinkansen travel remains remarkably comfortable and efficient.
10. Kansai International Airport (Kansai-Airport Ltd. Express HARUKA)
The Kansai-Airport Express "Haruka" connects Kyoto and the airport in about 1.5 hours.
How to Book in Advance
You can book seats in advance through the official websites below:
JR West
https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/overview/
Kintetsu Limited Express
https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/english/
Final Note: Let Kyoto Be Your Gateway to Japan!
Kyoto Station is not just a tourist hub, but a powerful launchpad for exploring the rest of Japan.
With Shinkansen and Limited Express trains, you can cover long distances within a single day—making your travel plans both flexible and efficient.
When planning your next trip, use this route guide as a helpful reference!
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