- Must visit
Kyoto National Museum
Major national museum with important Japanese art, archaeology, and rotating special exhibitions near Higashiyama.
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Discover the Japan Rail PassThe cheapest and fastest buses from Tokyo to Kyoto
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$74
Average price
$74
Fastest journey
7 h 50 m
Average duration
8 h 10 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
371 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto will cost around $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Tokyo for Kyoto on Fri, Jun 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct buses cover the 371 km distance in an average of 8 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 50 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest buses will take 8 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
966019:00 PM8h30Tokyo, Shinkiba Station (2 stops to Maihama Station)5:30 AMKyoto, Station Hachijo Exit G2 Platform$741One-way0 transfers- 966019:40 PM7h50Tokyo, Yaesu bus terminal5:30 AMKyoto, Station Hachijo Exit G2 Platform$741One-way0 transfers
- 966019:40 PM7h50Tokyo, Yaesu bus terminal5:30 AMKyoto, Station Hachijo Exit G2 Platform$741One-way0 transfers
- 966019:00 PM8h30Tokyo, Shinkiba Station (2 stops to Maihama Station)5:30 AMKyoto, Station Hachijo Exit G2 Platform$741One-way0 transfers
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Tokyo to Kyoto
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Tokyo to Kyoto among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 39m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a flight costs an average of $52.
Distance: 230 miles (371 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$73 Average price Cheapest | $100 Average price | $104 Average price |
3h 52m Average total duration 3h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration 3h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 39m Average total duration Fastest 2h 39m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto is a bus with an average price of $73 (€59).
This is compared to other travel options from Tokyo to Kyoto:
A bus is $27 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Tokyo to Kyoto costing on average $100 (€81).
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Tokyo to Kyoto costing on average $104 (€84).
The fastest way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 39m.
Other travel options to Kyoto take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 22m.
Train takes on average 3h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Tokyo to Kyoto among Omio's users.
Tokyo to Kyoto Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 09:55PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Willer Express | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Live departures
Tokyo to Kyoto bus times
The table below shows live departures for Tokyo to Kyoto buses for tomorrow, Friday, June 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 96601 | 9:00 PM Tokyo, Shinkiba Station (2 stops to Maihama Station) | 8h30 | 5:30 AM Kyoto, Station Hachijo Exit G2 Platform | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 96601 | 9:40 PM Tokyo, Yaesu bus terminal | 7h50 | 5:30 AM Kyoto, Station Hachijo Exit G2 Platform | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Tokyo to Kyoto by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Tokyo to Kyoto
JapanJapan
Buses from Tokyo to Kyoto run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $45 (€36) if you book in advance.
There are 8 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 230 miles (371 km) distance in 7h 45m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 230 miles (371 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 (€36) |
Buses per day 8 |
Direct buses 8 |
Fastest bus 7h 45m |
First bus 12:10 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Willer Express, JR Central, peach aviation, JR Bus Kanto from Tokyo to KyotoYou can travel by bus between Tokyo to Kyoto with Willer Express, JR Central, peach aviation, JR Bus Kanto for as low as $45 (€36). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Willer Express
About
WILLER EXPRESS Co., Ltd. is a prominent Japanese bus company operating since 2005, offering extensive intercity bus services across Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. With approximately 22 routes and 352 daily departures, it serves over 2.65 million passengers annually. The company provides a range of seating options, including the "ReBorn" and "DOME" seats, designed for enhanced comfort and privacy. WILLER EXPRESS also emphasizes safety through strict compliance with regulations, regular vehicle inspections, and the use of IoT technology for real-time monitoring. Additionally, it has expanded its services internationally, operating intercity buses in Vietnam and Taiwan.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 45m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Luggage included
Up to two pieces of luggage may be checked per passenger.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage beyond the standard allowance is not permitted.
Luggage storage
Luggage is stored in the bus trunk or overhead compartments, depending on bus type.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations may incur fees; specific terms depend on the fare type and timing of cancellation.
Refund
Refunds are provided for cancellations; specific terms depend on the fare type and timing of cancellation.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are not permitted to travel on Willer Express buses.
Amenities on board the bus
Seat reservation
An arrangement fee of 330 yen is charged for each trip upon reservation of an intercity express bus with reserved seats.
Toilets
JR Central
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
$95 (€77)
peach aviation
About
Peach Aviation is a Japanese low-cost airline headquartered at Kansai International Airport in Tajiri, Osaka Prefecture. Established in 2011 as A&F Aviation, it began operations in March 2012. As Japan's first true low-cost carrier, Peach aims to provide affordable air travel with Japanese quality service for the Asian region. The airline operates a fleet primarily consisting of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, serving numerous domestic and international routes across East Asia. Peach Aviation is a subsidiary of ANA Holdings Inc.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Luggage included
1 personal item (40x30x25cm)
Additional luggage
Up to 20kg checked baggage can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made at least 14 days before departure receive full refund as credit, less than 14 days no refund unless premium fare purchased.
Pregnant on board
Up to 28th week with medical certificate. Between 28-36 weeks, medical certificate issued within 7 days of flight required
Unaccompagned minor
Children 5 years old and up can travel alone on flights with Peach. For unaccompanied minors, Peach provides support at the airport and on board, including checking in on the child periodically. Contact Peach directly at least three days before your departure to arrange for this assistance.
JR Bus Kanto
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 8m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€65)
JR Bus Kanto frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Kyoto
Things to do in Kyoto
Discover the best of Kyoto — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kyoto trip today.
- Recommended
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto’s flagship art museum, known for modern and contemporary exhibitions in a restored historic building.
- Recommended
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
Compact but respected national museum featuring modern Japanese art, crafts, and design beside Okazaki Park.
- Must visit
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
One of Kyoto’s most photographed walking spots, with towering bamboo paths near major temples and river scenery.
- Must visit
Gion
Kyoto’s famous geisha district with traditional streetscapes, teahouse architecture, and atmospheric evening walks.
- Must visit
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka
Historic sloping lanes lined with preserved wooden buildings, popular for classic Kyoto streetscape photos.
Kaiseki Ryori
A Seasonal multi-course meal showcasing Kyoto’s refined culinary traditions, delicate flavors, and elegant presentation.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Yudofu
A Simple hot tofu dish simmered in broth, especially associated with Kyoto’s temple cuisine in areas like Nanzen-ji.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Shojin Ryori
Traditional Buddhist temple cuisine based on vegetables, tofu, sesame, and seasonal ingredients, central to Kyoto’s food culture.
Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama
Renowned high-end kaiseki restaurant offering exquisite seasonal dining in an elegant traditional setting.
Honke Owariya Main Branch
Historic noodle house famous for soba and traditional Kyoto atmosphere, with roots stretching back centuries.
Tousuiro Kiyamachi
Well-known tofu and yudofu restaurant in a traditional townhouse, appreciated for classic Kyoto flavors and calm ambiance.
Japanese Yen
Moderate by Japan standards: temples are affordable, but hotels in peak seasons and kaiseki dining raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- JPY 700-1,200 for ramen, curry, or set meals.
- Mid-range
- JPY 2,000-4,000 per person at casual restaurants.
- Fine dining
- JPY 10,000+ per person for kaiseki or upscale dining.
- Coffee
- JPY 400-700 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not customary and may cause confusion. Service is included. Do not tip restaurants or taxis; only rare exceptions at luxury ryokan.
FAQs: Bus from Tokyo to Kyoto
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Kyoto, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto can start from as little as $45 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tokyo to Kyoto is $73 (€59) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Tokyo to Kyoto is 7h 45m to travel the 230 miles (371 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Tokyo to Kyoto leaves at 12:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Tokyo to Kyoto leaves at 11:40 PM.
Yes, there are 8 direct buses a day from Tokyo to Kyoto with Willer Express, JR Central, JR Central, peach aviation, JR Bus Kanto. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Tokyo to Kyoto, you can count on Willer Express, JR Central, JR Central, peach aviation, JR Bus Kanto for the best way to get you to Kyoto. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Tokyo and Kyoto and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Kyoto from Tokyo is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Tokyo to Kyoto is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto:
- peach aviation
- Peach Aviation offers assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair services and priority boarding. Passengers are advised to request these services in advance to ensure availability and proper arrangements.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto for bus company Willer Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto depends on the bus companies:
- Willer Express
- Cancellations may incur fees
- specific terms depend on the fare type and timing of cancellation.
- peach aviation
- Cancellations made at least 14 days before departure receive full refund as credit, less than 14 days no refund unless premium fare purchased.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto:
- Willer Express
- Up to two pieces of luggage may be checked per passenger.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto:
- peach aviation
- Up to 20kg checked baggage can be purchased
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto with the following bus company: Willer Express
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Tokyo to Kyoto.
Since neither Tokyo nor Kyoto are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Japan and Japan. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Tokyo to Kyoto among Omio's users.
Japan uses the Japanese yen (JPY) as its currency. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and large establishments, many smaller shops, restaurants, and rural areas prefer cash. Therefore, travelers are advised to carry cash for convenience and to ensure smooth transactions.
In Kyoto, main safety concerns for travelers include petty theft in crowded areas and pickpocketing near popular tourist spots. Travelers should be cautious of overcharging or unauthorized taxi drivers, especially around train stations. Scams are relatively rare, but visitors should beware of street vendors selling counterfeit goods or overpriced souvenirs. Staying alert and using official transportation helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular bus connections from Tokyo
More options for your journey from Tokyo to Kyoto
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Kyoto and Tokyo
Most popular bus connections to Kyoto
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