Train Tickets from Hiroshima to Kyoto

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*the price displayed is for dedicated seats; children under 6 and babies can be seated on adults'lap free of charge.

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30 Number
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1h40 Shortest
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68 € Our best
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06:55 / 22:44 Earliest / Latest
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Getting from Hiroshima to Kyoto by Train

On the way from Hiroshima to Kyoto, two of Japan's most historically relevant cities, experience the effortless efficiency of high-speed Japan bullet trains as you ride along on the Sanyo Shinkansen line. Hiroshima and Kyoto are two cities that vividly portray Japan's history, each for its own unique reasons. Hiroshima, a city constantly evolving and fueled by optimism and the profound lessons learned from its devastating past, stands out as a significant chapter in Japan's contemporary history. On the other hand, Kyoto, the former capital of the country and renowned for its multitude of temples, remains a top choice for travelers in Japan.

With its preserved cultural heritage and its many temples, shrines and historical landmarks, Kyoto offers a different experience than Hiroshima, which is not only known for its world-famous sights, but also for its succulent local gastronomy and its trendy modern allure. Compared to the more serene Kyoto, Hiroshima boasts a more dynamic vibe, an atmosphere often enjoyed by visitors.

More information about your journey to Kyoto

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.

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Advantages of taking the train from Hiroshima to Kyoto

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.

Reliability

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

E-Ticket

Your Hiroshima to Kyoto itinerary is accessible at the palm of your hand with an e-ticket QR code on your phone! Just scan your e-ticket at the gates and board your train.

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 e-ticket

Get your e-ticket QR code by email 1 month before departure.

Enjoy your train travel

Simply scan your QR code at the gates and hop on your train!

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Shinkansen Information

The Sanyo Shinkansen, which connects Hiroshima and Kyoto, is well-known for its efficiency and speed. It covers a distance of approximately 380 kilometers (236 miles) and makes stops at major cities like Kobe or Okayama. The journey takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes on average, allowing travelers to enjoy the changing landscapes from Hiroshima to Kyoto. Trains depart from Hiroshima Station and arrive at Kyoto Station, in the heart of the old capital of Japan.

What are the differences between the different Shinkansen trains on the Hiroshima to Kyoto line? Where do they stop?

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?

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

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

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How to use your train tickets in Japan

When you purchase a train ticket with Japan Experience, you will receive a QR code via email. This QR code is your e-ticket, that you can use directly at the gates in stations by scanning it.

In case your QR code does not work, you will find right below it a registration number to show to station staff in order to board your train.

Please find more information below about ticket fares and train tickets usage conditions. With your QR code, you will also receive a detailed user guide to help you through the easy and efficient process of using your train tickets in Japan.

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.

How to use your train tickets in Japan?

To use your Shinkansen e-tickets once you have received them, simply head to Hiroshima Station and scan your QR code at the Shinkansen gates at North/Shinkansen exits, and head to the right platform to hop on your train.

Please note that your QR code will not scan at other ticket gates than Shinkansen ticket gates, which means you may need to exit the station and re-enter through the Shinkansen zone, depending on the following cases.

If you arrive to Hiroshima Station by a JR line:

If you have a prepaid IC card or paper JR tickets, you can transfer from the JR local lines area to the JR Shinkansen area. First scan your Shinkansen e-ticket, then tap your prepaid card (or insert your paper tickets). The gates will open on this second action.

If you are arriving in Hiroshima Station via subway lines:

You need to exit the station first, and then re-enter via the Shinkansen gates at North/Shinkansen exits.

On board the train, find the seat number that is on your e-ticket if you have a seat reservation, and enjoy the ride!

Once you've arrived in Kyoto, scan the QR code again at the Shinkansen gates upon exiting Kyoto Station, and the city is now yours to explore.

If you need to transfer to a JR local line, you need to exit the Shinkansen gates first, and then purchase local tickets - or use your prepaid IC card to travel by scanning directly at the transfer gates.

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions about train tickets in Japan

Up to 72 hours before departure, you can modify your booking one time free of charge or cancel your booking (with a 15% cancellation fee). Please find more details below.

How can I cancel or modify my booking?

You can cancel or modify your tickets by contacting Japan Experience by phone or email.

Modifications and cancellation are not possible in stations, neither at ticket machines (even those with a QR code reader) nor at JR counters (except when mentioned by our assistance*).

What are the cancellation conditions?

You can cancel your train tickets up to 72 hours before departure, with a 15% cancellation fee applied. Past 72 hours before departure, no cancellation can be done.

What if I miss my train?

If you have missed your train, your tickets allow you to board any train on the same route in the same day – in non-reserved seat cars only.

What are the modification conditions?

You can modify your booking for free one time up to 72 hours before departure. Any extra modification will result in booking cancellation to make a new order, with a 15% cancellation fee applied.

Past 72 hours before departure, no modifications can be done.

If you want to modify:

Seat and/or departure time (for e-tickets or e-voucher before paper tickets issued): Japan Experience can modify your booking for free, one time per booking.
Departure date and/or ticket class: Japan Experience allows you to change your departure date/ticket class free of charge by canceling your order without fees in order to make a new booking. Please note that a new date in a higher travel season or an upper class will result in a price difference.
Adding or removing passengers from the booking: Adding a passenger is free of charge, you only need to pay the extra ticket price. Removing a passenger equals to canceling the booking for that passenger only, cancellation conditions apply for the removed passenger ticket (15% fee).
Departure station/arrival station: This change equals a cancellation, with a 15% cancellation fee applied.

*For the rare and only case of cancellation for e-voucher after paper tickets have been issued, you need to request a cancellation at Japan Railways counters (not machines) in stations, up to 10 minutes before departure. JR will refund you around 70% of your order, in cash (JPY ¥). Modifications at JR machines or counters in stations are also possible up to 10 minutes before departure (some fees may apply).

There are different types of carriages on the Shinkansen, with different levels of accommodation. The Ordinary Car is the most general seating option, but Shinkansen bullet trains are, by default, more luxurious than other types of trains due to them being built for long-distance travel. These accommodations include reclinable chairs, overhead storage, hooks for outerwear, deployable trays, and electrical outlets.
The Green Car is the next step up in luxury from the ordinary car, featuring even deeper reclining chairs and more legroom. All seats in these cars need a reservation. The oversized luggage area is also included with a seat on the Green Car.
The Gran Class Car is much like the Green Car but with even more elevated accommodations. Seats are formatted 2x1, optimizing room, and often, snacks and refreshments are included. Gran Class cars exist only on JR East lines, such as Tokyo <-> Nagano and Tokyo <-> Kanazawa.

With over 40 years of dedicated experience dealing specifically with Japan travel and tourism, you can rest assured that we will have the best knowledge and familiarity with getting around the country. Our train tickets are acquired through an official partnership with JR West. We also offer reliable and expert assistance thanks to our onsite team in Japan, flexible modification options, and a fully digital booking experience with no hidden fees.

If your train's departure date is more than one month away from the date of booking, you will receive your QR code approximately a month before departure.

If your train's departure date is less than one month away from the date of booking, you will receive your QR code within 48 hours.

Reminder : you can book train tickets in Japan with Japan Experience between 9 months and 3 days prior to train departure.

If you're traveling with baggage measuring less than 160 cm (length + width + height), you don't need to make an additional reservation, and you can store your baggage in the overhead compartment above your seat.

For baggage measuring more than 160 cm and up to 250 cm (length + width + height), you need to make an advance reservation before you can take your baggage on board the Shinkansen. On board, you'll need to stow your baggage in the areas reserved for bulky luggage, generally located behind the last seats in the car, and in special compartments located between the cars. This includes luggage such as sports equipment, musical instruments and strollers.

Luggage measuring more than 250 cm (length + width + height) is not permitted on board the Shinkansen. Each passenger can take up to two pieces of luggage on board the Shinkansen.

You can find more details about luggage rules aboard the Shinkansen here.