A Japan planning tool
How much of the day
does a hotel move take?
Tokyo to Kyoto is a quick train ride by the standards of a long-distance trip. A hotel change still takes more of the day than the ride itself. Compare the route choices and change the numbers to match your hotels.
Put your route in
The 150-minute train field is a planning example, not a quoted departure. Check JR Central’s current timetable for the train you would actually take.
3 Tokyo + 3 Kyoto · 1 hotel change
4h 25mEstimated elapsed time for one move, not a train timetable or ticket price. If you carry a large bag on the Tokaido, Sanyo or Kyushu Shinkansen, check the reservation rule below.
The bag decision
On the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen, a bag whose height, width and depth add up to more than 160 cm and no more than 250 cm needs a reservation for an oversized-baggage area or compartment. JR Central explains the dimensions and booking process. Smaller bags still need to be manageable in stations and at your seats.
Forwarding a suitcase can make the move easier, particularly if you are adding a ryokan night. Confirm the delivery date with the carrier and hotel before deciding what to carry. Our Japan luggage guide covers the options in detail.
What I would choose
With six nights, I would stay in Tokyo if neighborhoods, food and a Kamakura day matter more than a first look at Kyoto. If Kyoto is the reason for Japan, make the one move and give each city three nights. With nine nights, five in Tokyo and four in Kyoto is the easier first trip. The Japan route selector lays out each version.