Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto

Hi everyone...I've been a lurker here for quite a while now and will be travelikng to Japan for the first time this 23 December 08. Anyway, I would like some suggestions on how to get from Tokyo to Kyoto by train...the thing is I havent bought the JR pass yet since I will be only visiting one city outside of Tokyo so I thought it's not that necessary....is there any other way that I can travel to Kyoto without the JR pass?

Thanks all...

Will you be returning to Tokyo?

If you are returning to Tokyo within a 7 day period it would probably pay to get a 7 day pass. The return fare is just under the price of the pass but you would be in front if you used it for a few short commmutes. EG a hop down to Shinosaka and back.

If you're not returning to Tokyo within 7 days, then just head down to any JR ticket window, or a shinkansen ticket machine at Tokyo or Shinagawa, and buy a one-way ticket there. It'll set you back between 12,710-13,500 yen, depending on whether you make seat reservations and what class of train you choose.
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2363.html

Thanks alot you guys...Anyhow, I'll be returning to Tokyo so I guess a JR pass is more economical...

Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year to you all