Japan's rail network is famously fast, clean, and punctual. Here's how to move within Tokyo and travel between the cities on the route.
Tokyo runs on an extensive metro and rail system. You almost never need a taxi — a rechargeable IC card and a maps app will get you anywhere.
Tap-to-ride cards for trains, subways, buses, and even convenience stores. The easiest way to get around — just top up as needed.
Best for everyoneTwo subway systems cover the city centre. Day passes are available if you'll be hopping between many stops in one day.
City centreThe loop line connecting major hubs — Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Ueno. Your mental map of the city.
Major hubsiPhone and many Android phones can hold a digital Suica in the Wallet app and recharge with a card — no need to find a ticket machine.
The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects every major stop on the route. Compare the main options below.
Up to ~285 km/h, frequent, and remarkably comfortable. Tokyo to Kyoto in about 2h15m. Reserve seats during busy periods.
Fast & comfortableA flat-rate pass for unlimited JR travel over 7, 14, or 21 days. Worth it if you're covering several long legs — do the maths against point-to-point fares.
For multi-city tripsBudget flights and overnight buses can be cheaper for the longest hops. Less relevant for this route, but handy for spontaneous detours.
Budget option| Route | Mode | Approx. time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo → Hakone | Odakyu Line / Romancecar | ~1h 25m | Consider the Hakone Free Pass for local transport |
| Hakone → Kyoto | Shinkansen (via Odawara) | ~2h 15m | Covered by the JR Pass |
| Kyoto → Osaka | JR Special Rapid | ~30 min | Very frequent; easy day trips either way |
| Osaka → Hiroshima | Shinkansen | ~1h 30m | Ferry onward to Miyajima island |
| Hiroshima → Kanazawa | Shinkansen (via Osaka) | ~4h 30m | Longest leg; reserve seats |
| Kanazawa → Tokyo | Hokuriku Shinkansen | ~2h 30m | Direct and scenic |
For this Oct 2–21 loop — with several long Shinkansen legs — a 21-day JR Pass often pays off (it covers the full 20-day trip). Add up the individual fares above and compare before buying.