Train Tickets from Hiroshima to Kyoto

30 Number
of daily departures
1h40 Shortest
travel duration
$72 Our best
available price
06:55 / 22:44 Earliest / Latest
departure time

More information about your journey to Kyoto

kyoto hiroshima train map

As the Shinkansen races through the picturesque Japanese countryside, passengers are treated to a captivating journey that showcases the ever-changing city of Hiroshima, seamlessly transitioning into the timeless beauty of rural Japan and the historical legacy of Kyoto. This popular route, often the final leg of the renowned "Golden Route", takes travelers on a scenic ride where charming villages and majestic mountains gradually give way to Kyoto's suburbs and then to the magnificent traditional city. After approximately an hour and a half, the train arrives in the stunning gem of the Kansai region, Kyoto.

Upon reaching Kyoto, the station stands as a gateway to the city's cultural treasures. From the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its vibrant torii gates to the tranquil and historic atmosphere of the Gion district, Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's preserved past. The city's numerous temples, traditional tea houses, and the breathtaking Arashiyama district perfectly capture the essence of traditional Japan. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the journey from Hiroshima to Kyoto on the Shinkansen offers a seamless blend of modern travel convenience and the timeless allure of Japan's cultural heritage.

Moreover, being located in the heart of the Kansai region, Kyoto serves as the gateway to many other regional treasures, such as the shores of Lake Biwa, the scenic Amanohashidate coast, the popular day trip destination of Nara with its free-roaming deer in temple grounds, or the vibrant and neon-lit city of Osaka.

Note: Kyoto Station is usually not the last stop on this Shinkansen line that can continue to travel to Tokyo. Please be mindful of the stops in order to get off at the right station.

The Sanyo Shinkansen line is operated by Japan Railways (JR), the largest rail company in Japan. When you book your tickets through Japan Experience, you can rest assured that you are dealing directly with JR West, the official partner of Japan Experience. This partnership ensures a reliable and seamless journey from Hiroshima to Kyoto.

Advantages of taking the train from Hiroshima to Kyoto

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Efficiency

Covering the distance of nearly 400km between Hiroshima and Kyoto in a little over 1 hour and 30 minutes, Shinkansen bullet trains are one of the fastest ways to reach your destination relaxed and worry-free.

shinkansen 700s interior seat seating japan train nozomi jr central
Comfort

Comfortable seats, plenty of space to relax your legs, regularly cleaned carriages and peace and quiet for a relaxing journey. 

shinkansen driver agent jr
Reliability

With hundreds of departures per day and an average delay per train estimated at 24 seconds, the Shinkansen is very reliable. 

shinkansen 700s nozomi eco friendly green
Eco-friendly

Your Hiroshima to Kyoto itinerary corresponds to less than 15kg of CO2 emissions by Shinkansen, compared to over 100kg by plane on the same journey. Traveling by train is 7 times more eco-responsible than flying!

How to book your Hiroshima to Kyoto train tickets?

Pick your date, time and seat

You can book up to 9 months prior to your travel date.

Confirm and purchase

Order your train ticket securely online.

Receive your QR code

Get your QR code by email 1 month before departure.

Exchange and enjoy

Follow the instructions received on how to exchange your QR code and enjoy your ride.

kyoto hiroshima train map new

More information about your train, Hiroshima Station and Kyoto Station

Different types of available Shinkansen

When traveling from Hiroshima to Kyoto, you have the option to choose between two types of Shinkansen high-speed bullet trains: Hikari and Nozomi. Hikari trains make a few stops before reaching Hiroshima, while Nozomi is the fastest and offers direct service. However, please note that Nozomi tickets are slightly more expensive. It's also important to mention that all Nozomi Shinkansen trains operate with reserved seats only.

No matter which train you choose, you can expect a comfortable journey with reclinable seats, overhead storage, power outlets, and more available on board. To ensure a smooth travel experience between Hiroshima and Kyoto, make sure to research all seat and car options before booking your train ticket according to your specific travel needs.

How to get to Hiroshima Station

Hiroshima's main train station, Hiroshima Station, is located in Minami ward. It offers convenient connections to different local public transportation lines operated by JR, serving both the Hiroshima metropolitan area and the wider region. The famous Hiroshima streetcar, managed by Hiroshima Electric Railway, also has a stop at Hiroshima Station. Moreover, there are several bus lines that either depart from or have stops at this station. Due to its close proximity to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum, it is easily accessible by foot to the city's main attractions.

Where to go from Kyoto Station 

Kyoto Station, situated in the heart of the historic Japanese capital, is well-connected to various public transportation lines operated by JR or Kintetsu, the regional rail operator in the Kansai area. The Karasuma subway line also conveniently stops at Kyoto Station. Moreover, Kyoto's renowned bus network revolves around the station, offering a wide selection of bus lines to easily reach your desired destinations in Kyoto. 

Why book your train tickets with Japan Experience?

Official seller

Our train tickets are issued through an official partnership with the National Japan Railways Group (JR).

Secure payment

You're in control! We offer different payment options.

Quality at our core

Our team of passionate individuals based in Japan works with you directly, no intermediary needed.

Customer support

We're here to help, 7/7. And available through all channels.

Read more about the exchange process, conditions and validity of train tickets here

How far in advance can I book train tickets?

You can book train tickets in Japan between 9 months prior to your train's departure date and 3 days before departure. 

Is there a special train ticket fare for children?

Yes, there are special fares applicable for children. Ages 12 and up are considered adults, but kids aged from 6 to 11 benefit from a reduced child fare. Children under the age of 6 travel for free. This free fare is limited to 2 tickets, meaning any additional child under 6 will then pay the classic child fare. 

Where to exchange your train tickets in Japan depending on the region?

train tickets japan exchange map

In the JR West area (blue), you can exchange your QR code for a physical train ticket at reserved seat ticket machines in stations, or at Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket windows with station staff. In the JR Central area (orange), you can exchange your QR code at reserved seat ticket vending machines at indicated stations. In the JR East area (green), you can exchange your train tickets at Shinkansen stations, major stations in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and Narita Airport stations. 

How to use your train tickets in Japan? 

To use your train tickets once you have exchanged them, simply head to Hiroshima Station, insert your train ticket into the automatic gates (don't forget to take it back), and head to the right platform to hop on your train. On board the train, find the seat number that is on your ticket if you have a seat reservation, and enjoy the ride! Once you've arrived in Kyoto, insert the ticket again at the gates upon exiting, and the historic old capital of Japan is now yours to explore. 

You can find the conditions of modification and cancellation of our train tickets in our “Frequently Asked Questions” section at the bottom of the page.

Eligibility

All persons above the age of 12, with no restrictions of residence status or nationality, are eligible to purchase individual train tickets (unlike the Japan Rail Pass and some JR regional passes, for example). Japanese individuals as well as foreigners living in Japan can thus purchase train tickets online. Under the age of 12, the aforementioned child fare conditions apply. 

Validity of train tickets

Train tickets issued are only valid for the date and time indicated on your booking, and are to be used only on the Hiroshima to Kyoto service. 

Frequently Asked Questions about train tickets in Japan