Top Ten Day Trips from Kyoto

Within three hours of Kyoto there are endless sides of Japan to discover

While Kyoto is a destination where you could happily spend a week, its position at the heart of Japan also makes it an ideal base for day trips across this diverse country.

We've curated a list of ten day trips, all accessible by train in under three hours from Kyoto. Japan's world-class rail network makes exploring beyond the city incredibly easy, whether you're looking for spectacular scenery, fascinating history, exceptional food and drink or a deeper insight into Japanese culture.

Short on Time? 

If you're only planning one or two day trips, we'd recommend Nara for history, Arashiyama for scenery, Osaka for food and nightlife, or Himeji for one of Japan's finest castles.

1. Arashiyama

One of the most famous areas on the edge of Kyoto, Arashiyama is just a swift 15-minute train ride from Kyoto Station. Walking through its iconic bamboo grove is one of Japan's most unforgettable experiences, with towering green stalks creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

However, the bamboo forest isn't the only reason to visit Arashiyama. The Sagano Scenic Railway offers a nostalgic 25-minute journey along the Hozugawa River Gorge, combining picturesque scenery with a glimpse into the region's rich history. The landscape transforms beautifully throughout the year, from cherry blossom in spring and lush green forests in summer to vibrant autumn foliage and snow-dusted valleys in winter (although the railway does not operate from late December until February).

The Togetsukyo (Moon Crossing) Bridge is another highlight of the area. Originally constructed in 836 during the Heian period, it has been rebuilt several times after flood damage, with today's bridge combining traditional wooden parapets with a reinforced concrete structure. It offers beautiful views across the Katsura River towards the Arashiyama mountains and is particularly popular during cherry blossom season and autumn.

If time allows, stop for lunch and try yudofu (Kyoto-style tofu hotpot), a local speciality that perfectly suits the peaceful surroundings.

Far and Wild tip: Arrive early in the morning to experience the bamboo grove before the crowds arrive, then spend the rest of your day exploring the quieter temples, cafés and riverside walking trails.

2. Suntory Yamazaki Distillery

Another short 15-minute train journey from Kyoto brings you to the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, a must-visit for anyone with an interest in Japanese whisky. As Japan's first and oldest malt whisky distillery, it is widely regarded as the birthplace of Japanese whisky and produces some of the finest whiskies not only in the country but in the world.

The distillery offers guided tours and tastings, which we recommend booking well in advance as they are extremely popular. English-language audio guides are also available, making the experience accessible for international visitors.

During the tasting, your drams will often be served with soda water already added as is the traditional Japanese method. If you'd prefer to taste the whisky neat, simply ask for the soda water to be served separately and the team will be happy to oblige.

3. Uji

Moving from whisky to tea, Uji can be reached in around 30 minutes from Kyoto and is Japan's matcha capital.

The town is home to countless tea shops, cafés and restaurants serving everything from traditional bowls of ceremonial-grade matcha to inventive desserts, noodles and ice cream flavoured with the region's famous green tea. It's also an excellent place to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, one of the country's most treasured cultural practices.

Uji is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Byōdō-in Temple, originally built in 998 during the late Heian period. Entry to the temple grounds costs 700 yen for adults and includes access to the beautiful gardens and museum, while entry to the original Phoenix Hall costs an additional 300 yen. Visitors can also choose to take part in a traditional tea ceremony within the temple precincts, led by one of the temple's certified Japanese tea instructors.

Please note: Due to increasing global demand, many shops in Uji now limit the amount of matcha each customer can purchase.

4. Osaka

Just 30 minutes from Kyoto by train, Osaka is Japan's third-largest city and one of its most vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations. While you could easily spend several days exploring everything the city has to offer, it also makes an excellent day trip from Kyoto.

One of the best ways to experience Osaka is from the water. A river cruise along the Okawa River offers a unique perspective of the city and highlights the waterways that have long played an important role in Osaka's history and development.

Back on land, a visit to the famous Osaka Castle (Ōsaka-jō) is a must. One of Japan's most recognisable landmarks, the castle played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century and has featured in countless films, television programmes and works of literature. It is surrounded by expansive parkland, with the beautiful Nishinomaru Garden sitting just across the moat.

For panoramic views of the city, head to the Umeda Sky Building Observatory. Standing 173 metres tall, the building consists of two towers connected by the Floating Garden Observatory on the 39th floor. Visitors can enjoy both an open-air observation deck and a glass-covered viewing area, ensuring spectacular views regardless of the weather. There are also several restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy a meal or drink overlooking the city. If you're visiting as a couple, don't miss the designated area where you can attach a heart-shaped lock to commemorate your visit.

Another hugely popular attraction is Universal Studios Japan. The park can be reached directly by train from Osaka Station, making the total journey from Kyoto around an hour depending on your connections. Home to attractions including Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it's an excellent option for families and film lovers alike.

Far and Wild tip: Osaka is known as 'Japan's Kitchen', so don't leave without trying local favourites such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki or kushikatsu.

5. Nara

Nara is a truly unmissable day trip from Kyoto, especially when it's just a 45-minute journey away by JR train. As Japan's first permanent capital, the city is steeped in history and home to some of the country's most important cultural treasures.

The city's most famous attraction is Tōdai-ji Temple, home to Japan's largest bronze Buddha statue. Another highlight is Hōryū-ji Temple, founded in 607, which contains some of the world's oldest surviving wooden buildings as well as Japan's oldest statues of Kongō Rikishi, the guardian deities that traditionally stand at the entrances to Buddhist temples.

Nara is equally rewarding for nature lovers thanks to the hundreds of deer that roam freely through Nara Park. Considered sacred messengers in the Shinto religion, the deer have become synonymous with the city. Stalls throughout the park sell special deer crackers, allowing visitors to feed them, while nearby tea houses and cafés provide plenty of opportunities to refuel yourself too.

For those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing, the surrounding mountains are home to several excellent onsen. Many traditional ryokan offer outdoor baths with beautiful views across the forests and valleys. The Yumori Onsen at Hotel Suginoyu is particularly popular thanks to its open-air bath overlooking the Otaki Dam and the surrounding mountains.

Far and Wild tip: Visit Nara Park early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience with the deer before the larger tour groups arrive.

6. Himeji 

Just 55 minutes from Kyoto on the Shinkansen (bullet train), Himeji is home to Japan's finest surviving feudal castle and one of the country's most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Often referred to as Shirasagi-jō (White Heron Castle) because of its elegant white exterior, Himeji Castle is widely regarded as the finest example of Japanese castle architecture. The impressive complex contains a network of 83 buildings, defensive walls and gates, many of which have survived for centuries. Five of its structures are designated National Treasures, making it one of Japan's most historically significant landmarks.

For a small additional feed you can get entry to the beautifully landscaped Kōko-en Garden, making it well worth combining the two attractions in one visit. The peaceful gardens provide a welcome contrast to the castle's impressive fortifications and are particularly beautiful during spring and autumn.

Be aware that Himeji is one of Japan's most popular attractions, and queues to enter the castle keep can become substantial during busy periods such as cherry blossom season and Golden Week. Arriving early in the morning is the best way to avoid the largest crowds.

Far and Wild tip: If you're travelling by Shinkansen between Kyoto and Hiroshima, Himeji makes an excellent stop-off rather than a dedicated day trip, allowing you to see one of Japan's greatest castles without adding significant travel time.

7. Kobe

Just 30 minutes from Kyoto by train, Kobe is another excellent day trip for food and drink enthusiasts looking to sample some of Japan's finest culinary delights. This elegant port city is compact and easy to explore on foot, making it perfect for a leisurely day out.

The unmissable experience is, of course, trying authentic Kobe beef, renowned for its exceptional marbling and melt-in-the-mouth texture. We recommend dining at Kobe Beef Steak Ishida, where the chefs prepare the meat in front of you for a truly immersive teppanyaki experience.

Kobe is also Japan's leading sake-producing region. The city's Nada district is home to many of the country's most famous breweries, and a visit to the free Sawanotsuru Sake Museum offers a fascinating introduction to the area's long brewing heritage. Many breweries also offer complimentary tastings, making a self-guided sake crawl an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.

Once you've enjoyed Kobe's culinary highlights, head up the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway for spectacular views across the city and Osaka Bay. Along the way you'll catch a glimpse of the beautiful Nunobiki Waterfall before arriving at the Rokko Garden Terrace.

Far and Wild tip: If you're visiting Kobe for lunch, consider arriving before midday. The city's best steak restaurants fill up quickly, particularly at weekends.

8. Hiroshima

Hiroshima lies slightly further from Kyoto than the other destinations on this list, with the journey taking around 1 hour 40 minutes by Shinkansen. While it requires an earlier start, the city's historical importance makes it more than worth the journey.

The city's most significant attraction is the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the world's first atomic bomb attack on 6 August 1945. Afterwards, continue to the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings left standing near the hypocentre. Today it stands as both a stark reminder of the devastation of nuclear warfare and a powerful symbol of world peace.

To explore another chapter of the city's history, visit Hiroshima Castle, originally built in the late 16th century by the warlord Mōri Terumoto before being reconstructed after the Second World War.

Despite its tragic past, modern Hiroshima is vibrant and welcoming. Nicknamed the 'City of Water' thanks to the six rivers that crisscross through it, it's also one of Japan's best foodie destinations. Don't miss trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the city's famous layered savoury pancake.

Far and Wild tip: If you have a little extra time, consider combining your visit with nearby Miyajima Island, home to the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

9. Amanohashidate

For those seeking spectacular scenery, it's hard to beat Amanohashidate. This 3.6-kilometre pine-covered sandbar stretches across the mouth of Miyazu Bay and is considered one of Japan's Three Scenic Views.

From the viewpoints on the surrounding hills, the sandbar appears like a pathway connecting heaven and earth, giving the area its poetic reputation. One of the best viewpoints is Mount Monju, which can be reached by chairlift or monorail. At the summit you'll find panoramic views across the bay, as well as a small amusement park.

Along the sandbar itself you can walk, cycle or simply relax on the beach while taking in the peaceful coastal scenery.

If time allows, continue to the nearby fishing village of Ine, famous for its traditional funaya (boat houses). These distinctive waterfront buildings feature boat garages on the ground floor with living accommodation above. The best way to experience them is from the water, either on a sightseeing boat or by hiring a smaller sea taxi for a more intimate tour.

Ine can be reached by bus from Amanohashidate in around an hour. While visiting both destinations in a single day requires an early start and careful planning, it is certainly achievable.

The journey from Kyoto to Amanohashidate takes approximately two hours. Limited Express trains provide the quickest route, while regular buses also operate between Kyoto Station and Amanohashidate.

Far and Wild tip: If the weather is clear, stay until late afternoon when the softer light makes the bay particularly beautiful.

10. Kanazawa

Our final recommendation is Kanazawa, nestled between the Japanese Alps and the Sea of Japan and around two hours from Kyoto by train.

The city is renowned for its exceptional seafood, best experienced with a wander through Ōmichō Market, where locals have been buying, selling and enjoying the freshest seafood for centuries. It's the perfect place to try a generous seafood rice bowl topped with local crab, tuna and sweet shrimp.

Kanazawa is also famous for Higashi Chaya District, one of Japan's best-preserved geisha districts and an officially designated Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. As you wander through its beautifully preserved wooden streets you'll pass traditional teahouses, where geisha still entertain guests today, alongside artisan shops selling local crafts and delicacies.

The city's samurai heritage is equally impressive. Kanazawa Castle, built by the powerful Maeda clan during the late 16th century, has been carefully restored using traditional Edo-period building techniques. Just next door lies Kenroku-en, widely considered of Japan finest landscape garden. Beautiful in every season, its ponds, bridges and carefully sculpted trees make it a fitting finale to any visit.

Far and Wild tip: Kanazawa rewards slow exploration. Leave time to wander the backstreets around Higashi Chaya and you'll discover traditional cafés, craft shops and some of the city's best photo opportunities.

Top Tips

Most of the attractions featured in these day trips are extremely popular, so booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly if you're travelling during busy periods such as cherry blossom season or Golden Week.

While all of the journey times in this guide are based on travelling by train, buses are also available to many of these destinations and can sometimes offer a more direct or scenic route.

If you're planning to visit several destinations, it's worth checking whether a Japan Rail (JR) Pass or one of the regional JR passes offers good value for your itinerary. If you're planning to use a combination of trains, buses and private railways throughout the Kansai region, a Kansai Thru Pass may be the better option, as it covers many non-JR railways, buses and subways.

Whichever day trip you choose, we recommend setting off early. Not only will you make the most of your day, but you'll often enjoy Japan's most popular attractions before the crowds arrive.

If a trip to Kyoto and beyond interests you, please contact our team at 0203 111 1315 or enquire now.