Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto

Hi there!

You have 2 options I think:

1. Purchase individual tickets when you get to Japan (JR tickets are only sold per single trip, there are no return tickets)
2. Purchase a 7 day JR Pass online that will give you unlimited travel on JR trains across Japan for 7 days (including non-Nozomi bullet services from Tokyo to Kyoto and the Narita express into Tokyo). The cost of the 7 day rail pass is roughly equivalent to a return trip from Tokyo > Kyoto so if you think there is the possibility you will be doing more JR travel I recommend this option.

Hope this helps!

I do not have a lot of time while I am there. I don't have a problem spending the money on a Nozomi train. So I can basically buy a Nozomi train ticket when I arrive there? I've seen tickets are almost always available (even the day before, referring to your #1 option). This seems like the best option seeing that the 7 day pass doesn't include Nozomi trains, correct?

Hi there!

Yes, in your case then you will be fine to purchase tickets before travel as you need. In general as long as you do not travel during rush hours, you should be fine.

Hope this helps!