Fastest way from Kyoto to Yokohama: Shinkansen / JR Train, about 1h 49min (from €83). Cheapest: Bus, from €18 (about 5h 55min). Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): Tokaido Shinkansen, AT Liner, Tourist Bus; main departure point: Kyoto.
There are 2 ways to get from Kyoto to Yokohama
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Companies selling this route on 12Go
Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.
| Company | Mode | Departs from | From | Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokaido Shinkansen | Train | Kyoto | €83 | 332 |
| AT Liner | Bus | Kyoto | €18 | 4 |
| Tourist Bus | Bus | Kyoto | €18 | 4 |
| Atliner Tourist Bus | Bus | Kyoto | €18 | 1 |
| Chibamirai Kanko Bus | Bus | Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit | €19 | 4 |
| Daishinto Bus | Bus | Kyoto | €21 | 1 |
| Sakura Syoei | Bus | Kyoto | €22 | 4 |
| ATLINER Shoei Transportation | Bus | Kyoto | €24 | 2 |
| ATLINER Syoei Kotsu Co | Bus | Kyoto | €24 | 2 |
| Atliner Bus | Bus | Kyoto | €24 | 2 |
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Practical tips
For a single Kyoto-Yokohama trip, a Japan Rail Pass is unlikely to pay off unless you're doing extensive travel within a 7, 14, or 21-day period. Always calculate the cost of individual Shinkansen tickets before committing to a pass. A point-to-point ticket is often cheaper for isolated journeys.
If you're on a budget and don't mind sacrificing some comfort for a significant price difference, the overnight highway bus is an excellent option. It saves you money on both the travel ticket and one night's accommodation. Book well in advance for the best fares, especially during peak season.
While Shinkansen tickets typically have fixed prices, some early bird discounts or online-only fares might be available through JR East or other official booking platforms. Always check for these opportunities a few weeks before your travel date to potentially save a few euros.
When traveling by Shinkansen, you'll depart from Kyoto Station, which is the main hub in the city. There isn't a separate 'Shin-Kyoto' like 'Shin-Osaka'. Ensure your ticket specifies 'Kyoto' to avoid any confusion or booking errors. This is crucial for smooth travel.
Yokohama has several major stations (Yokohama Station, Shin-Yokohama Station, Sakuragicho, etc.). The Shinkansen typically arrives at Shin-Yokohama Station, which is a bit outside the city center. Be prepared to take a local train or subway from Shin-Yokohama to your final destination in the city, adding a little extra time to your journey.
The journey experience
Planning your trip from Kyoto to Yokohama? You're not alone in finding Japan's transport choices a bit overwhelming. Between the lightning-fast Shinkansen, comfortable highway buses, and various local lines, knowing which option is best for your wallet and schedule can be tricky. We cut through the confusion to give you honest door-to-door times and real prices, ensuring you make the smartest choice for your journey.
For this Kyoto to Yokohama route, your main options are the Shinkansen or a highway bus. The Shinkansen offers speed and comfort, whisking you there in about 1h50–1h55 for from €83. It’s perfect if you value efficiency and want to maximize your time in Japan. Alternatively, a highway bus is a budget-friendly choice, taking approximately 6h–7h and costing from €18. While longer, it saves on accommodation for a night and is significantly cheaper.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities. If time is of the essence, the Shinkansen is your go-to. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a longer journey, especially if you can catch an overnight bus, then the highway bus is a fantastic alternative that truly beats the bullet train on price. Always compare these factors to avoid overpaying or making assumptions about train availability to places like Mount Fuji – for this route, both train and bus are readily available, but the price and time difference is considerable.
Frequently asked questions — Kyoto → Yokohama
The best way depends on your priorities. For speed, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is unmatched, getting you there in about 2 hours. If budget is your main concern and you don't mind a longer journey, an overnight highway bus, taking around 5 hours, is significantly cheaper and can save you on accommodation costs. Both are direct options.
A Shinkansen ticket from Kyoto to Yokohama typically costs from €83 (up to €84). For a more budget-friendly option, a highway bus ticket can be found for approximately €18 (up to €24). Prices can vary slightly based on booking time, operator, and specific seat class, so it's always good to check current fares.
By Shinkansen, the journey from Kyoto to Yokohama (Shin-Yokohama Station) takes approximately 2 hours. If you opt for a highway bus, expect the travel time to be around 5 hours. Remember that the Shinkansen usually arrives at Shin-Yokohama, requiring a short local transfer to reach central Yokohama.
While non-reserved seats are available on most Shinkansen trains, reserving a seat is highly recommended, especially during peak travel times, holidays, or if you're traveling with luggage. It guarantees you a spot and a more comfortable journey. Booking online or at a JR ticket office is simple.
For a standalone Kyoto to Yokohama trip, the Japan Rail Pass is generally not worth it. It’s designed for extensive, multi-city travel across Japan over a 7, 14, or 21-day period. For this specific route, purchasing a point-to-point Shinkansen ticket or opting for the highway bus will almost certainly be more economical.
Why visit Yokohama?
- ✓ Explore the futuristic Minato Mirai 21 district with its iconic skyscrapers and amusement park.
- ✓ Stroll through the historic Yamate district, home to Western-style residences and charming gardens.
- ✓ Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights of Yokohama Chinatown, one of the largest in the world.
- ✓ Visit Sankeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings relocated from various parts of Japan.
- ✓ Discover the unique exhibits at the CupNoodles Museum, celebrating instant ramen history and allowing custom creation.
When to visit Yokohama?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) — pleasant temperatures and clear skies are ideal for sightseeing.
What to do in Yokohama?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
How long to visit Yokohama?
For an independent traveler, 2-3 days are ideal to experience Yokohama. With 2 days, you can cover major attractions like Minato Mirai and Chinatown. If you have 3 days, add a visit to Sankeien Garden and explore the ramen museum. Prioritize the waterfront for a memorable experience.
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