Japan 2012 - Kyoto to Tokyo by Bullet Train

The easiest and fastest way to get from Kyoto to Tokyo is by bullet train. The distance is around 500 km, and with the fastest Nozomi train it will take around 2 1/2 hours. The fare is not cheap - about 14,000 yen which is around RM 460. There are 1st Class and Ordinary Class seats, but on a relatively short journey I don't think it makes much difference.

If you are expecting a high-tech train experience you will be disappointed. The bullet train platforms are the same as the other trains, and there are no seats while you wait for the train to arrive. So it is not advisable to arrive too early. 

The train interior feels a bit like a narrow body jetliner. The seats are quite comfortable.

You can buy meals on the train. Though the selections are limited, what they had all looked quite appetizing. I ordered the Grilled Pork and Rice Bento. There were generous thick slices of tasty grilled bacon with a tasty teriyaki sauce, and the rice was of very good quality.

The main advantage of traveling by train instead of flying is you get to enjoy the views. It was interesting to see the change of scenery as you move from urban to suburban areas and the country side.