Have you flown from Tokyo to Kyoto and if so, how was it?
Experience the journey from Tokyo to Kyoto with Shinkansen. Discover convenience, comfort, and breathtaking views on this magical ride!
โHave you flown from Tokyo to Kyoto and if so, how was it?โ
Iโve done it both ways โ flying and Shinkansen. The Shinkansen is better in almost every case. Hereโs why:
Shinkansen vs Flying: The Comparison
| Shinkansen | Flying | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel time | 2 hours 15 min (Nozomi) | 4-5 hours total (airport + flight + transfer) |
| Price | ~ยฅ13,320 one way | ~ยฅ5,000-15,000 (varies wildly) |
| Station โ City center | Tokyo Station โ Kyoto Station (direct) | Haneda โ Itami/Kansai โ bus/train to Kyoto |
| Frequency | Every 10-15 minutes | A few flights per day |
| Luggage | No restrictions, no check-in | Standard airline rules |
| Experience | Mt. Fuji views, ekiben bento | Generic flight |
My Recommendation
Take the Shinkansen. Itโs door-to-door faster because:
- No airport security โ just walk on the train
- Tokyo Station and Kyoto Station are in the city center โ no 1-hour airport transfers
- Trains leave every 10-15 minutes โ miss one? Catch the next
- Mt. Fuji view โ sit on the right side (seat E) going to Kyoto for the best view
When Flying Makes Sense
- You have a JR Pass that doesnโt cover Nozomi (use Hikari instead โ 2h40m)
- Youโre flying from another city and connecting through Tokyo
- You found an extremely cheap flight on Peach, Jetstar, or ZipAir (sometimes under ยฅ5,000)
How to Book Shinkansen Tickets
- At the station: JR ticket counter or ticket machines (English available)
- Online: SmartEX app โ book and use your IC card or phone as ticket
- JR Pass holders: Reserve seats at any JR ticket counter (free with pass)
Pro Tips
- Reserved seats (ๆๅฎๅธญ) are worth the extra ยฅ500-1,000 during peak season
- Ekiben (station bento boxes) are a Shinkansen tradition โ buy one at Tokyo Station before boarding. Tokyo Station has over 200 varieties!
- Green Car (first class) is luxurious but not necessary for a 2-hour ride
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