There are 2 way(s) to get from Odawara to Kyoto
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Before buying individual Shinkansen tickets, calculate if a Japan Rail Pass makes financial sense for your entire itinerary. Sometimes, a combination of point-to-point tickets and an overnight bus for a specific leg like this can be cheaper than activating a JR Pass for fewer long-distance journeys.
Overnight highway buses are a fantastic budget option. Book these well in advance, especially for popular routes or during peak seasons. Websites like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn often have good options, and look for buses with reclining seats for better comfort.
Remember that iconic spots like Mount Fuji and the Kawaguchiko area are not directly accessible by train. From Odawara, you'll typically take a train to Gotemba or Mishima, then transfer to a bus to reach these scenic destinations. Plan accordingly!
Shinkansen tickets usually offer reserved and non-reserved seats. Non-reserved seats are slightly cheaper but can be crowded during peak hours or holidays. For peace of mind, especially on longer journeys, a reserved seat is worth the small extra cost.
Pay close attention to station names, especially in major cities. For example, Shin-Osaka is where the Shinkansen stops, while Osaka Station is for local and regional lines. Confirm your departure and arrival stations to avoid any last-minute confusion.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Japan's superb but complex transport network can be a head-scratcher, especially when you're looking for the best balance of speed, price, and convenience between key stops like Odawara and Kyoto. You want to know if it's a Shinkansen dash, a scenic JR limited express, or a cost-saving highway bus, and you need honest door-to-door times and real prices – not just theoretical fastest train stats. Let’s break down your options so you can make an informed choice for your journey.
For your trip from Odawara to Kyoto, you have two main choices. The fastest is the Shinkansen, which clocks in at around 2 hours and typically costs about €43. This is your bullet train experience, offering speed and comfort. Alternatively, if budget is your priority, an overnight highway bus takes approximately 5 hours and will set you back around €14. This option allows you to save money and potentially a night's accommodation, though it's a longer ride.
Choosing between the Shinkansen and the highway bus depends on your priorities. If you value speed and seamless travel, the Shinkansen is your best bet, connecting you directly to Kyoto in a flash. However, if you're keeping a tight budget or want to save on a night's stay, the overnight bus is a smart alternative. Always weigh the time saved against the cost, and remember to check if your Japan Rail Pass covers the Shinkansen route, as this can dramatically change the economics of your trip.
Frequently asked questions — Odawara → Kyoto
The 'best' way depends on your priorities. For speed and convenience, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is unmatched, getting you there in about 2 hours. If budget is your main concern, especially if you're open to an overnight journey, a highway bus is significantly cheaper, taking around 5 hours. Consider your schedule and budget when making your choice.
A Shinkansen ticket from Odawara to Kyoto typically costs around €43. If you opt for the highway bus, you can expect to pay significantly less, with fares starting around €14. These prices can vary based on booking in advance, seat class, and specific operators, so it’s always wise to check current prices online.
By Shinkansen, the journey from Odawara to Kyoto is quite fast, taking approximately 2 hours. If you choose the highway bus, plan for a longer trip of about 5 hours. These times are for direct routes, and transfer times or delays could slightly affect the overall travel duration, so factor that into your planning.
Whether a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for this leg depends on your entire itinerary. For a single trip from Odawara to Kyoto, it's unlikely to pay off. The JR Pass offers great value for extensive travel across Japan over 7, 14, or 21 days. Calculate the total cost of individual tickets for all your planned train journeys versus the cost of the JR Pass before deciding.
While you can often travel in non-reserved cars on the Shinkansen, especially outside of peak hours, reserving a seat is highly recommended for peace of mind. It guarantees you a spot, which is particularly helpful during busy travel periods like holidays or weekends, and ensures you can sit with your travel companions.
✨ Why visit Kyoto?
- ✓ Visit Fushimi Inari-taisha with its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain.
- ✓ Explore the historic Gion district, known for its geishas and traditional teahouses.
- ✓ Wander through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and enjoy a serene boat ride on the Hozugawa River.
- ✓ Discover the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf.
- ✓ Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a historic machiya (townhouse).
☀️ When to visit Kyoto?
HUMID SUBTROPICAL CLIMATE
March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn) — pleasant weather and beautiful cherry blossoms or vibrant fall foliage.
What to do in Kyoto?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Kyoto?
For an independent francophone traveler, 4-7 days are ideal to explore Kyoto. This allows you to visit major temples, gardens, and experience traditional culture at a relaxed pace, with time for day trips to Nara or Osaka. Budget 4 days for core sites; add more for deeper exploration or surrounding areas.
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