Buses
Taking a bus from Yokohama to Kyoto is cheaper than flying. Quite often, a long-distance bus is the cheapest transportation option. Buses normally make bathroom and/or lunch stops along the way.
Things to remember before opting for a bus ride:
- If possible, make sure to choose higher-class buses for a more comfortable travel experience. Such buses often have an air conditioning system, soft reclining seats, Wi-Fi, bathrooms, etc.
- As with plane tickets, buses are better booked in advance so that you can secure a good seat.
- While booking a bus, keep in mind that delays are possible. Yet it still pays to get to the bus station at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.
Taxi
Catching a cab is the easiest way to get from Yokohama to Kyoto. It allows you to tailor-make your trip, plan all the detours and see all the places you want. You can choose the type and the size of your car as well to be as comfortable as you'd like to.
Depending on the route, it might cost as much as JPY 302,516.
Things to remember: It's a good idea to follow the route on Google Maps or any other GPS navigator.
Shinkansen Bullet Trains from Yokohama to Kyoto
While conventional trains typically operate at speeds of 80-130 km/h (50-80 mph), Shinkansen trains can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph). This significant increase in speed allows the Shinkansen to drastically reduce travel time between Yokohama and Kyoto, making it the fastest form of ground transportation available for this route.
Japan Rail Passes from Yokohama to Kyoto
For travelers planning multiple trips, a JR Pass from Yokohama to Kyoto can be a cost-effective solution.
JR Rail Passes provide:
- Access to multiple Shinkansen lines, including those serving the Yokohama to Kyoto route
- Use of local JR trains for side trips and exploration
- Flexibility to modify travel plans without additional ticket purchases
- Potential cost savings compared to buying individual tickets
These passes often provide significant savings compared to individual ticket fares and offer flexibility in travel planning. When comparing prices and considering your itinerary needs for journeys between Yokohama and Kyoto, the JR Rail Pass option is worth evaluating. It can be particularly beneficial for those planning to explore multiple destinations or make return trips within the validity period of the pass.
Things to remember while choosing a train ticket:
Consider everything carefully while choosing the class of your train travel. In most cases, the second class is comfortable enough – it features 2 or 4 berths in each compartment and is often air-conditioned.
If you’re in for a premium experience, consider getting a first class ticket. The price of first class tickets may include Wifi, and a choice of snacks and drinks..
