After exploring all the things to do in Osaka, from sampling the city’s famous street food in Dotonbori to admiring the view from the top of Osaka Castle, you might be looking for even more adventures. Day trips from Osaka offer the perfect opportunity to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes that lie beyond the city’s bustling streets.
Venturing from Osaka, the broader array of things to do in Japan becomes accessible, inviting you to experience the historic temples of Kyoto, the majestic deer park in Nara, or the soothing hot springs of Arima Onsen in Kobe. These day trips provide a deeper insight into Japan’s diverse offerings, enriching your understanding of its culture and natural beauty.
Choosing where to stay in Osaka is key to maximizing your enjoyment of both the city and the surrounding Kansai region. The right accommodation ensures easy access to Osaka’s myriad attractions and convenient starting points for your day trips, blending urban exploration with the tranquility and scenic beauty of Japan’s landscapes.
Discover Best Day Trips from Osaka, Japan
1. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is famous for its classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. It’s particularly renowned for the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine’s torii gates.
Distance: Approximately 55 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: $3
- Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Gion District, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Philosopher’s Path
Travel Tip: Visit the Gion district in the evening to experience traditional tea houses and maybe catch a glimpse of a Geisha.
2. Nara, Japan
Nara, known for its monumental Great Buddha statue in the Todai-ji Temple, is home to friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park. The city also has many significant temples and gardens.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 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: $4
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine: $3.50
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Isuien Garden, Yoshikien Garden, Mount Wakakusa
Travel Tip: Buy some ‘shika senbei’ (deer crackers) to feed the deer but be cautious as they can be quite assertive when hungry.
3. Kobe, Japan
Kobe is a cosmopolitan city known for its signature marbled beef and scenic setting of mountains framing the harbor. The city offers a blend of modern architecture and cultural sites, like the Ikuta Shrine.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 25 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Kobe Harborland, Ikuta Shrine, Kobe Chinatown
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ikuta Shrine: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Meriken Park, Mount Rokko, Sorakuen Garden
Travel Tip: Visit the Kobe Harborland area for great shopping, dining, and views of the city, especially beautiful at night.
4. Himeji, Japan
Himeji is renowned for its magnificent Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of 17th-century Japanese architecture. The city also has beautiful gardens, like Koko-en, located next to the castle.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Himeji Castle: $7
- Koko-en Garden: $2
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mount Shosha, Otokoyama Hachimangu Shrine, Himeji Central Park
Travel Tip: Try to visit Himeji Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and have the best light for photos.
5. Wakayama, Japan
Wakayama is known for its pilgrimage routes to the sacred Kumano Sanzan shrines and the Koyasan (Mount Koya) temple complex. The city also offers traditional onsen (hot springs) experiences.
Distance: Approximately 75 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Wakayama Castle, Kimiidera Temple, Porto Europe
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Wakayama Castle: $3
- Kimiidera Temple: 1.50
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Marina City, Tomogashima Island, Yosuien Garden
Travel Tip: Visit Porto Europe, a European-themed amusement park, for a fun and unique experience.
6. Mount Koya (Koyasan), Japan
Mount Koya is the center of Shingon Buddhism and is home to over 100 temples. The journey up the mountain and the temple-stay experience are as memorable as the serene, spiritual atmosphere of the place.
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by train and cable car
Transportation: Train and Cable Car
Main Attractions: Okunoin Cemetery, Kongobu-ji Temple, Danjo Garan Complex
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kongobu-ji Temple: $3.50
- Okunoin Cemetery: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Daimon Gate, Karukayado Temple, Mount Koya Pilgrimage Trails
Travel Tip: Participate in the morning prayers for a truly immersive experience, and don’t miss the Okunoin cemetery at dusk.
7. Uji, Japan
Uji, situated between Kyoto and Nara, is famous for its high-quality green tea and historical sites, including the Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s tea shops and traditional tea houses offer a deep dive into Japanese tea culture.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Byodo-in Temple, Ujigami Shrine, Uji River
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Byodo-in Temple: $4
- Ujigami Shrine: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Uji Bridge, Kosho-ji Temple, Tale of Genji Museum
Travel Tip: Try participating in a tea ceremony and visit the Tale of Genji Museum if you’re interested in Japanese literature.
8. Kurashiki, Japan
Kurashiki is known for its well-preserved Edo-period (1603–1868) area, the Bikan Historical Quarter, with picturesque canals lined with weeping willows and old warehouses. The Ohara Museum of Art in Kurashiki is another highlight, featuring Western art collections.
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Bikan Historical Quarter, Ohara Museum of Art, Kurashiki Ivy Square
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ohara Museum of Art: $9
- Kurashiki Ivy Square: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kurashiki Canal, Achi Shrine, Tsurugatayama Park
Travel Tip: Enjoy a traditional boat ride along the Kurashiki canal for a unique view of the historic district.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Osaka, Japan
What are some recommended day trips from Osaka?
Recommended day trips from Osaka include the historic city of Kyoto, the vibrant city of Kobe, the ancient capital of Nara, and the spiritual mountaintop retreat of Koyasan.
Is Kyoto a good day trip from Osaka?
Yes, Kyoto is an excellent day trip from Osaka. It’s home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the historic Gion district.
Can I visit Hiroshima as a day trip from Osaka?
Hiroshima is accessible as a day trip from Osaka, especially by Shinkansen (bullet train). Key sights include the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate.
Are there guided tours available to Nara from Osaka?
Yes, there are many guided tours to Nara from Osaka. These tours often include visits to Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue, and Nara Park, where you can interact with free-roaming deer.
What can I see in Kobe on a day trip from Osaka?
Kobe offers a mix of modern and traditional attractions, including the Kobe Harborland, Ikuta Shrine, and the Kitano-cho historic district. Don’t miss trying Kobe beef at one of the local restaurants.
Is a trip to Mount Koya worth it?
Definitely! Mount Koya (Koyasan) is a significant spiritual site with over 100 temples. A visit can include temple lodging, participating in Buddhist morning ceremonies, and exploring the Okunoin Cemetery.
Can I explore Japanese countryside near Osaka?
Yes, the Arashiyama area in the outskirts of Kyoto, accessible from Osaka, offers beautiful countryside scenes, bamboo groves, and the scenic Hozu River, perfect for a more tranquil day out.
Are there any theme parks near Osaka for a day trip?
Universal Studios Japan in Osaka itself is a fantastic day trip for families and theme park enthusiasts, offering a range of attractions and shows based on popular movies and franchises.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/osaka-l1204?activity_type=dayTrip
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