For those who have delved into the myriad things to do in Kyoto, from wandering through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to experiencing the tranquility of Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, the adventure doesn’t end within the city’s limits. Day trips from Kyoto open up a world of exploration, connecting travelers with the cultural richness and natural beauty that lie just a short journey away.
Expanding your journey beyond Kyoto, you encounter the vast array of things to do in Japan, from the ancient temples of Nara, home to the giant Buddha, to the soothing onsens of Kurama. These experiences offer a deeper insight into Japan’s unique blend of tradition and natural wonder, enriching your travel experience with every step.
Selecting where to stay in Kyoto is key to fully appreciating the city’s historical charm and ensuring easy access to the wider attractions of the Kansai region. The right accommodation not only provides a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration but also positions you perfectly to explore Kyoto’s enchanting neighborhoods and the captivating destinations that surround it, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Discover Best Day Trips from Kyoto, Japan
1. Nara, Japan
Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, is home to historic treasures, including the Todai-ji Temple housing a giant Buddha statue. The Nara Park, with its friendly deer roaming freely, is another highlight.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Todai-ji Temple: $6
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine: $5
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Nara Park, Isuien Garden, Wakakusa Hill
Travel Tip: Visit Nara in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, and bring some deer-friendly snacks to feed the roaming deer.
2. Osaka, Japan
Osaka, known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and hearty street food, is a stark contrast to Kyoto’s traditional vibe. Don’t miss the iconic Osaka Castle and the bustling Dotonbori district.
Distance: Approximately 56 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Shitenno-ji Temple
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Osaka Castle: $6
- Shitenno-ji Temple: $4
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Umeda Sky Building, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Travel Tip: Try local specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake) when exploring the street food scene.
3. Uji, Japan
Uji, famous for its high-quality green tea, offers serene landscapes and historical sites like Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Uji River and tea shops lining the streets provide a tranquil setting.
Distance: Approximately 18 km
Travel Time: About 20-30 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Byodo-in Temple, Uji River, Ujigami Shrine
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Byodo-in Temple: $6
- Ujigami Shrine: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Uji Bridge, Tale of Genji Museum, Uji Park
Travel Tip: Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in one of the local tea houses for an authentic experience.
4. Himeji, Japan
Himeji is renowned for its magnificent Himeji Castle, also known as “White Heron Castle,” one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved feudal castles. The Koko-en Garden nearby is also worth a visit.
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by shinkansen (bullet train)
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Himeji Castle: $10
- Koko-en Garden: $3
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Himeji Castle Grounds, Otokoyama Hachimangu Shrine, Himeji Central Park
Travel Tip: Visit the castle early to avoid crowds, and wear comfortable shoes as there’s quite a bit of walking and stair climbing involved.
5. Koya-san, Japan
Koya-san (Mount Koya) is the center of Shingon Buddhism and is known for its tranquil and spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can experience temple lodging, vegetarian cuisine, and ancient temple visits.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: Approximately 2-2.5 hours by train and cable car
Transportation: Train, Cable Car
Main Attractions: Okunoin Cemetery, Kongobu-ji Temple, Danjo Garan
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kongobu-ji Temple: $5
- Okunoin Cemetery: Free
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Daimon Gate, Koyasan Reihokan Museum, Koyasan Choishimichi Pilgrimage Trail
Travel Tip: Stay overnight at a temple for a full immersive experience, and don’t miss the Okunoin Cemetery at dusk for a mystical experience.
6. Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima, a city rebuilt after the atomic bombing in 1945, is now a symbol of peace. Key sites include the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome.
Distance: Approximately 370 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by shinkansen (bullet train)
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: $3
Budget: Approximately $60-$120 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima Castle, Mitaki-dera Temple
Travel Tip: Allocate enough time to visit the museum for a deeper understanding of the city’s history and the impact of nuclear weapons.
7. Miyajima, Japan
Miyajima, officially known as Itsukushima, is famous for its floating torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine. The island is also known for its lush forests and roaming deer.
Distance: Approximately 390 km
Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours by train to Hiroshima and ferry ride to Miyajima
Transportation: Train, Ferry
Main Attractions: Itsukushima Shrine, Floating Torii Gate, Daisho-in Temple
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Itsukushima Shrine: $4
- Daisho-in Temple: Free
Budget: Approximately $70-$130 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mount Misen, Momijidani Park, Miyajima Aquarium
Travel Tip: Plan to visit during high tide when the torii gate appears to be floating on the water, and try the local delicacy, Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped cake).
8. Kurama and Kibune, Japan
Kurama and Kibune are two quaint towns north of Kyoto, known for their scenic mountainous landscapes and spiritual sites. Kurama Temple and the Kibune Shrine are the main attractions, linked by a beautiful hiking trail.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by train from Kyoto, with a short journey to Kibune
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Kurama-dera Temple, Kibune Shrine, hiking trail between Kurama and Kibune
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kurama-dera Temple: $3
- Kibune Shrine: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kurama Onsen, Kibune River, Kurama and Kibune hiking trail
Travel Tip: Hike the trail between Kurama and Kibune for a refreshing experience in nature, and visit the hot springs in Kurama to relax after the hike.
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Sources:
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