How to Get on the Shinkansen at Kyoto Station: Step-by-Step Guide

Kyoto Station is one of Japan's most important transportation hubs and serves as your gateway to incredible destinations across the country. Whether you're heading to Tokyo's bustling districts, Osaka's vibrant neighborhoods, or Hiroshima's historic sites, your Shinkansen journey can begin or pass through here. This guide will help you navigate Kyoto Station smoothly and board your Shinkansen with confidence.

Don't worry if this is your first time using Japan's train system. With clear directional signs and a straightforward station layout, you'll find the process much easier than expected. Follow our step-by-step instructions for a stress-free boarding experience.

Station Overview: Understand the Layout and Exits

Entrances of Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station has two main entrances on opposite sides of the station:

If you plan to board the Shinkansen, the Hachijo side generally offers the quickest and most direct access to the Shinkansen gates.

However, travelers coming from the north side of the city or from the subway/bus terminals may find the Karasuma Exit more convenient—simply walk through the station’s 2nd-floor concourse to reach the Shinkansen area.

Shinkansen Ticket Gates

Kyoto Station has multiple Shinkansen ticket gates:

Note: The Shinkansen Central Gate is different from the Central Exit (Karasuma Exit) on the north side of Kyoto Station.

Although their names are similar, the Shinkansen Central Gate is actually located on the Hachijo (south) side of the station, near the Shinkansen platforms.

Shinkansen Platforms

All Shinkansen platforms at Kyoto Station are on the 3nd floor and located on the Hachijo (south) side:

• Platforms 11-12: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya and Tokyo (eastbound)
• Platforms 13-14: Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakata (westbound)

All platforms are clearly marked in both Japanese and English, so you won't get lost.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer to the Shinkansen from JR Local Lines

Step 1 — Exit the Local Train and Follow the Signs

When you arrive at Kyoto Station on a JR local line, look for signs that say "Shinkansen." These signs are located on every platform and will guide you toward the Shinkansen area.

Take the escalator or stairs up to the 2nd floor. You'll see directional signs pointing toward the Shinkansen transfer gates.

Follow the signs through the corridor. The pathway is wide and easy to navigate.

You'll arrive at the Shinkansen transfer area. There are two main transfer gates:

• Central Transfer Gate: This is the main transfer gate. Most travelers use this one.
• East Transfer Gate: Located further east along the corridor.

Both gates work equally well, but the Central Transfer Gate has more ticket machines and is generally easier to find.

Step 2 — Buy or Receive Your Shinkansen Ticket

Before entering the Shinkansen area, you need a valid ticket. You have two main options:

If you already have a ticket: Great! You can go directly to the transfer gates.

If you need to get your ticket: Look for the ticket machines near the transfer gates. These machines have multilanguage options and accept cash or cards.

For travelers who booked online with services like Japan Bullet Train, you can exchange your QR code for paper tickets at these same machines. The process is quick and the machines provide clear instructions in multilanguage.

● Read More: How to receive your Shinkansen ticket

Step 3 — Go Through the Shinkansen Ticket Gate

Insert your ticket into the ticket gate. If you're transferring from a JR local line, insert both your local line ticket and your Shinkansen ticket together. Don't forget to take your tickets from the machine — you'll need them during your journey and when you exit at your destination.

The ticket gates are clearly marked and have staff nearby if you need help.

Step 4 — Wait at the Correct Car Number on the Platform

Once through the gate, take the escalator or elevator up to your platform.

Electronic boards show departure times, train names, and platform numbers.

The platforms are long, so give yourself time to walk to the right car position.

For Reserved Seats:

Find the number of your train car on your ticket. Look for the corresponding car number markers on the platform. Arrive about 10 minutes before departure time.

● Read More: Shinkansen Boarding Guide: How to Board & Understand Tickets

For Non-Reserved Seats:

Non-reserved cars are usually at the front end of the train. Always check the platform displays and car diagrams to confirm which cars are non-reserved.

During busy periods, you might need to wait for the next train if the first one is full. Arriving early gives you the best chance of getting a seat.

To make the most of your precious travel time in Japan and avoid any delays, booking in advance with Japan Bullet Train is highly recommended.

Entering Kyoto Station from Outside

From the Hachijo Side

If you're coming from the south side of Kyoto Station, this entrance is the best choice for accessing the Shinkansen. Many hotels near Kyoto Station are located on this side, and many international travelers arrive here via airport buses or taxis.

There are two main Shinkansen gates at street level. You don't need to go through the regular JR ticket gates — but make sure you have a valid Shinkansen ticket or IC card with a reserved seat.

• Shinkansen Hachijo Gate (1F): Enter directly from the Hachijo side. You'll see the ticket gates on your left after entering the station building. This is the fastest route if you're coming from hotels south of the station.
• Shinkansen Hachijo East Gate (1F): Located slightly to the east. This entrance is convenient if you're coming from the Kintetsu Railway direction.

Both gates are on the 1st floor. After passing through the ticket gates, take the escalator or elevator up to the platforms.

Allow about 10 minutes from the Hachijo Exit to reach the Shinkansen platforms.

From the Central (Karasuma) Side

The Central (Karasuma) side is farther from the Shinkansen platforms, but you can still use it. This entrance works well if you're coming from the subway, central Kyoto, or the main bus terminals.

Enter through the Central Exit and head to the 2nd floor.

You'll find a wide corridor called the "North-South Pedestrian Deck" that connects both sides of the station. Walk south through this corridor toward the Hachijo side. The walk takes about 5 to 10 minutes and is clearly signposted with "Shinkansen" signs.

You'll arrive at the Shinkansen Central Gate on the 2nd floor. This is the main ticket gate with the most ticket machines and staff windows.

From the Central Exit to the Shinkansen platforms typically takes 15 to 20 minutes depending on your walking speed.

Specific Situations

If You Have a Lot of Luggage

Many international travelers arriving at Kyoto Station come with large suitcases. The station is well-equipped for travelers with luggage:

• Using Elevators: Both the Hachijo Gate and Central Gate have elevators nearby. Look for the elevator symbols on directional signs. The elevators are spacious and can accommodate large suitcases.
• Luggage Storage: If you need to store your luggage temporarily, coin lockers are available near both the Hachijo Exit and the Central Exit. The largest lockers can fit standard suitcases. Check our comprehensive Kyoto Station Guide for detailed information about luggage storage options.
• From Hachijo Side: This is the easiest route if you have heavy bags. The Shinkansen Hachijo Gate is on the same floor (1F) as the station entrance, minimizing the need to navigate stairs with luggage.

If You Need Accessible Routes (Barrier-Free)

Kyoto Station has excellent barrier-free facilities with elevators at all entrances and platforms. Both the Central (Karasuma) side and the Hachijo side have elevator access to the Shinkansen area. Look for the universal access symbol on signs throughout the station. Station staff are available to assist if needed.

If You Want the Shortest Walking Distance or Time

For the fastest access, use the Hachijo Exit and enter through the Shinkansen Hachijo Gate on the 1st floor. This route takes only 5-10 minutes from the station entrance to the platforms.

If Coming from the Subway or Kintetsu Line

From the Subway:

Exit through the South Gate. You'll see the Shinkansen Hachijo East Gate directly ahead. Transfer time: about 5 minutes.

From Kintetsu Railway:

Exit the Kintetsu gates and walk straight ahead. The Shinkansen Central Gate is right in front of you. Transfer time: less than 3 minutes.

If You Arrive Early on the Platform

Shops and Food Near the Shinkansen Gates

Inside the Shinkansen gates, you'll find shops selling souvenirs, drinks, snacks, and quick meal options. These shops offer famous Kyoto souvenirs, fresh bento boxes, and travel essentials.

If you want to enjoy a sit-down meal, you can find many restaurants before entering the Shinkansen gates.

Rest Areas and Smoking Rooms

Near the East Transfer Gate, you'll find a comfortable waiting area with seats where you can rest before your train arrives. A designated smoking room is also located in this area.

You can also find seats on the platforms, though availability depends on timing.

Vending Machines and Convenience Stores at the Platforms

You'll find vending machines selling drinks and snacks throughout the platform area.

Small kiosks on the platforms sell bento boxes, sandwiches, and drinks. This is perfect for grabbing last-minute supplies for your journey. Popular items include coffee, green tea, ice cream, and regional specialty snacks.

Ready for Departure

Navigating Kyoto Station for your Shinkansen ride might seem challenging at first, but thousands of international travelers do it successfully every day. The key is allowing enough time and following the clear signage throughout the station.

Planning your Shinkansen journey in advance makes everything smoother. Services like Japan Bullet Train allow you to book tickets online and simply receive them at the station, saving time and reducing stress on your travel day.

With this guide, you're ready to experience one of the world's most efficient and comfortable train systems. Safe travels!