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How to get from Hiroshima to Kyoto
The fastest way from Hiroshima to Kyoto is the Sanyo/Tokaido Shinkansen, about 1 h 40 on a direct Nozomi train. Hikari trains, sometimes with a change at Shin-Osaka, take about 2 h. Highway buses are cheaper but take about 5 h or more.
Best option: Train. The shinkansen is frequent, fast and goes straight to Kyoto Station.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Kyoto Station (Nozomi direct; Hikari or Sakura with a change at Shin-Osaka) | about 1 h 40 to 2 h | several trains an hour | about ¥11,000–12,000 with a reserved seat | The Japan Rail Pass covers Hikari and Sakura trains; Nozomi needs an extra ticket. |
| bus Highway buses, including overnight ones, from Hiroshima to Kyoto | about 5 to 6 h or more | a few a day | about ¥5,000–8,000 | The cheapest option; overnight buses save a night's accommodation. |
| car Sanyo Expressway and Meishin Expressway | about 4 h | fuel plus expressway tolls of about ¥8,000–9,000 | Expensive and slower than the train. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Send big suitcases ahead with a luggage forwarding service; overhead space is limited.
- Large luggage needs a reserved oversized-baggage seat on Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen trains.
- Kyoto Station is the hub for buses and subway lines into the city.
- Avoid Golden Week, Obon and New Year if you can; trains are packed.
Common questions
How long is the shinkansen from Hiroshima to Kyoto?
About 1 h 40 on a direct Nozomi train. Hikari and Sakura trains are a little slower and may need a change at Shin-Osaka, making it about two hours. Several trains run every hour from early morning to evening. Reserve a seat at busy times.
Does the Japan Rail Pass cover Hiroshima to Kyoto?
Yes, on Hikari and Sakura trains, with a change at Shin-Osaka if needed. Nozomi trains are not included in the pass unless you buy an extra supplement ticket. Check current pass rules before travelling, as they have changed in recent years. Whether the pass pays off depends on your whole itinerary.
What is the cheapest way from Hiroshima to Kyoto?
A highway bus, about ¥5,000–8,000, taking five hours or more. Overnight buses save a night's accommodation. The shinkansen costs about ¥11,000–12,000 but is about three times faster. Driving is expensive once tolls of around ¥8,000–9,000 and fuel are added, so it only makes sense for a group.
Do I need to book the shinkansen ahead?
Unreserved cars exist on most trains, so you can travel without booking, but reserved seats are wise at weekends and holidays. If you carry a large suitcase, you must reserve a seat with oversized-baggage space. Book online, at ticket machines or at JR ticket offices.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.