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20 Best Day Trips From Osaka (For 2024)

• by Jonny Duncan
• January 1, 2024 March 20, 2024

These are the best day trips from Osaka that I recommend to choose from after having stayed in Osaka for several weeks and exploring many of the areas around it.

Osaka is the second-largest city in Japan and is known as the “nations kitchen” as some of the best Japanese food can be found there.

Although Osaka doesn’t have the big draw of some other parts of Japan, it certainly has plenty of things to see and do in itself and it’s one of the best cities to base yourself in, especially for day-tripping to other places.

This article is to give you some advice from my own experiences of doing day trips from Osaka when there.

Transportation for day trips from Osaka

If you plan on doing lots of day trips from Osaka by train (the best way) and travelling to other areas of Japan further away like Tokyo or Hiroshima then it’s best to save money on train travel with a Japan Rail Pass (get one with that link).

Then with the Japan Rail Pass, you can use the Shinkansen trains where available as they are quicker. If you don’t have the Japan Rail Pass for day trips from Osaka then use the Special Rapid Service trains that are cheaper than the Shinkansen, but take longer.

Another good option is to get a Kansai Thru Pass if you don’t plan to travel further away like to Hiroshima. The pass will allow you unlimited travel on transport and travel to places like Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and also to the international Kansai Airport.

The main Osaka train stations for getting your transport for day trips are Umeda, Namba, Shinsaibashi, Yodoyabashi, and maybe some others depending on where you go.

This is the website for the West Japan Railway Company to check the timetables for the trains.

I’ve done separate posts for some of these trips which I have linked to that give a more in-depth look at the destination.

If you haven’t yet booked accommodation in Osaka you can find and book a hotel in Osaka here .

Best Day Trips From Osaka

This is what I recommend doing for day trips from Osaka. They’re in no particular order as one thing will appeal more to you than maybe another, although Kyoto is number one as that’s what I regard as an essential day trip to do if you are not planning to stay in Kyoto itself at any point.

1. Kyoto Day Trip From Osaka

This is pretty much a no-brainer. If you’re basing yourself in Osaka to explore the region then one of the best day trips from Osaka is to Kyoto.

Kyoto is the ultimate place in Japan to see temples, shrines, traditional Japanese gardens, the geisha district, and so much more. Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan and is a must-visit. Personally, I would recommend staying there a few nights if you can.

There is a Shinkansen train to Kyoto from Osaka that only takes 15 minutes but is 3 times more expensive than the special rapid service which takes 25 minutes and only costs 560 yen.

Of all the day trips from Osaka if there was only one to do then this would be it, especially if you don’t plan to stay in Kyoto at some point during your trip to Japan.

Kyoto tours from Osaka as mentioned are easy to do.

One thing that’s great to do there if you have an interest in old samurai history is to do this tour:

2. Nara Day Trip From Osaka

Nara is an easy local train journey from Osaka and takes around half an hour to reach. It costs an average of 740 yen each way depending on the time of day.

Nara was the old capital of Japan and as such has many temples to see.

It’s the main reason to visit Nara on a day trip. Plan for at least 4 hours to explore the old temple area and its peaceful parks full of friendly roaming deer.

If you’re lucky and in Nara, in mid-December, you can see the Nara Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri Festival which lasts for 4 days and is Japan’s oldest cultural arts festival.

Nara is one of the essential day trips from Osaka for history lovers.

One of the best ways to see the best of Kyoto and Nara if you’re short on time, is to join a day tour:

3. Mount Koya (Koyasan) Day Trip From Osaka

One of the most peaceful and ethereal places I have visited in all of Japan. Located near Mount Koya there’s a large temple complex to visit but the main draw is its graveyard.

The graveyard is home to over 200,000 monks’ graves as well as warlords and important figures.

It really is a serene place to be in and if you stay until it gets dark it gets very eerie.

Koyasan is set up in the mountains and is a one and a half hours train ride away which slowly winds up through the hills. The last train back is at 21.30 at night.

This is one of my favourite day trips from Osaka.

You can read more about the day trip to Koyasan here .

You can do a great full-day tour to Koyasan to save the hassle of going by local transport if you’re short on time:

4. Himeji Castle Day Trip From Osaka

Himeji is mainly known for its castle and for a good reason.

This castle is one of the biggest and best-preserved castles in Japan. The castle grounds are fascinating with a labyrinth of paths and alleys but the castle keep is the best part.

It’s kept in its original state with low ceilings and narrow stairways.

The woodwork is spectacular and extremely well-preserved. Make sure to arrive early in the day as the castle becomes crowded with tourists very quickly.

The castle grounds are also a great spot for watching cherry blossoms.

Himeji Castle is easy to find as it is clearly visible from the station entrance. It will take around one hour and forty-five minutes to reach there by train.

You could squeeze in Himeji Castle in the morning with an afternoon/evening in Kobe (see below) on the way back to Osaka to get both done on the same day. They are not that far from each other.

A shinkansen takes around 35 minutes to get to Himeji and roughly an hour by local train. You can walk to Himeji Castle from the station.

If you like castles then Himeji is an essential one of the day trips from Osaka you should plan to do.

5. Kobe Day Trip From Osaka

Kobe is just 25 minutes by train from Osaka so it serves as an excellent day trip and there are plenty of things to do in Kobe when there.

The city is a nice mix of newly developed areas that were built after the earthquake of 1995 and old districts like Nankinmachi.

Nankinmachi or Chinatown is a collection of small streets and alleys lined with restaurants, food stalls and shops, making it a great place to go shopping. There is a small plaza in the centre where you can find people playing Go.

Head to Meriken Park in the Kobe Port area of the city by the waterfront with open spacious areas and the nearby Harbourland is a massive complex for places to eat and for shopping.

The Kobe Port Tower is good to see in the port area, and the history of Kobe’s maritime connection with the wider world can be found at the Kobe Maritime Museum.

If you are looking for a more quiet and tranquil attraction, Sorakuen Garden is a good choice. This is a typical Japanese garden with several ponds, a boathouse and some nice walking paths.

The garden is located in downtown Kobe but has some beautiful scenic spots which is why you’ll have a good chance of seeing newlyweds having their wedding photos taken there.

If you have any interest in Japanese alcohol then go to the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. Sake is Japanese rice wine and you can enter the museum for free. You can do sake tasting at the shop there as well.

Of course, a visit to Kobe would not be complete without enjoying a good Kobe beef steak or Wagyu as it is locally known. Exceptionally tender and juicy meat.

It’s not cheap though, expect to pay around 50 to 60 euros for an average-sized steak, but it’s worth it if you like a good piece of steak. You’ll find plenty of Wagyu restaurants around Kobe and Sannomiya stations.

The Shinkansen train only takes around 15 minutes to reach Kobe but like Kyoto, you can take the normal special rapid service for less than half the price at 640 yen and only takes 15 minutes longer.

6. Okayama (With Naoshima Below) Day Trip

This is one of the longer day trips from Osaka, so start very early. If you are using the Shinkansen trains then this will help you a lot for this one.

Okayama has some things to do and one of the main reasons for stopping is to see its large Japanese garden, the Korakuen Garden, which is one of the three best landscape gardens in Japan.

Okayama Castle is near the garden and worth a look as well.

But Okayama is the gateway down to Naoshima Island and the two work perfectly together for a combined long day trip from Osaka.

It takes around one hour on a shinkansen to reach Okayama from Osaka costing around 5,500 yen, or two and a half hours by regular train (but almost half the price).

7. Naoshima Island Day Trip From Osaka

This day trip can be done with the Okayama day trip.

Naoshima Island(known as Japan’s art island) is a funky little place covered in random outdoor art sculptures everywhere. The Art House and museum on the east coast is a must-see.

The best way to see it is by bicycle costing 500 yen a day to rent. There are also buses that go around, but a bicycle is way more fun.

You will want to concentrate on the southern part the most and it’s not a huge island.

Allow several hours so you don’t need to rush.

You’ll discover little art cafes scattered around to stop in for a drink as you go. It’s a very relaxed place.

Take the local JR line train from Okayama to Uno Station, you might have to transfer trains on the way (takes around maybe 2 hours).

Then go to the ferry terminal a few minutes walk away. It takes 20 minutes by boat to reach Naoshima. There are 2 ferry terminals on the island, and most people (including myself) arrive at the port on the west side.

This is one of the best day trips from Osaka if you like art and a more remote island experience.

This is my article on Naoshima Island Art .

8. Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Trip From Osaka

Hiroshima and Miyajima Island can be done as one of the day trips from Osaka even though it’s a bit far away as the bullet train will get you there in around one and a half hours.

Hiroshima makes for a more solemn visit as the main reason to go is to see the Peace Memorial Park and the Holocaust Memorial Museum.

But it’s also good to see the new city today and there are also some great food options to try. Make sure to track down a good okonomiyaki place (Hiroshima is famous for it, as well as Osaka). It’s considered Japanese soul food.

Miyajima Island is fun to explore. You can hike to its highest point or take a cable car up there for the views, and there are old temples and shrines to see.

You would need to use the Shinkansen trains for this trip, time-wise. It takes around one and a half hours on the fastest shinkansen each way and you would have to start early.

To get to Miyajima from Hiroshima there is a local train every 15 minutes from the same train station and takes around 30 minutes. Get out on the 9th stop.

From there, there are 2 ferries that leave for the island. One is a JR ferry so take that one if you have a JR pass. The boats run every 15 minutes and take 10 minutes.

This is my post on the day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima.

9. Cycling From Osaka to Nara Day Trip

Believe it or not, this is not only one of my favourite day trips from Osaka but also one of my favourite experiences in Japan.

Cycling in Osaka itself is how I got around in my one month of living there, and it was too tempting not to go cycling from Osaka to Nara.

First of all the going is tough in parts as you will be going along Japan’s steepest highway, but what goes up must come down, and it’s a lot of fun riding down.

On the way, you will pass rural villages, remote shrines, rice paddy fields, and a bamboo grove with mini-shrines with almost no one there at all, unlike the busy one in Kyoto.

It will take you all day and will be a workout in parts but it’s so rewarding, if anything because you get away from the main touristed places.

Be aware though that it is hard work so if you are out of shape, or with young children, then this is probably, actually, I would more likely say definitely, not the best choice for you. 

Take the train from Nara to Osaka at the end of the day. Here’s a post I did about cycling from Osaka to Nara.

10. Kanazawa Day Trip From Osaka

This is one of the longer day trips from Osaka as it’s not close by.

It takes around 3 hours by train from Yodoyabashia station so you would need an early start.

In the Edo Period of Japan Kanazawa was a town as powerful, if not more so than Kyoto and Tokyo and survived World War 2 without being destroyed.

Therefore it has many old buildings to see such as the castle area, the Higashi Chaya District with its teahouses and geisha, and more.

The main attraction though is the Kenrokuen Gardens, known as one of, if not the best Japanese landscape gardens in the country.

11. Kurashiki Day Trip From Osaka

Kurashiki is a popular place for Japanese tourists, who tend to outnumber foreigners. It’s a very chilled place with an old canal that runs through the centre.

This is a great place for some culture as a day trip from Osaka. Old wooden buildings line the streets and it has a great ambience of the Edo Period of Japan.

A Shinkansen train will take around one hour to get there from Osaka.

12. Nagoya Day Trip From Osaka

This is one of the great day trips from Osaka if you’re interested in the more modern technological things in Japan.

You can do a 2-hour tour of Toyota Motor Corporation’s main factory, or take a look at the JR Scmaglev and railway park where the world’s fastest train resides.

If you want the more cultural things then there is Nagoya Castle, and one of the most respected Shinto shrines in Japan. Add to that the open-air Meiji era (1868 – 1912) museum with its outdoor exhibits, and it’s worth your time.

Just be aware that some of those places are not in the centre of Nagoya and would take an extra 20 minutes to an hour or so to get to.

Nagoya is around 1 hour from Osaka by Shinkansen and costs around 6500 yen. Or take the local JR trains for around 4000 but taking around 2 and a half hours.

Skip this day trip for others though if you want more Japanese culture in your day trips such as Nara, and Koyasan as at the end of the day Nagoya is a modern city.

13. Universal Studios Japan Day Trip From Osaka

I wasn’t sure whether to add Universal Studios Japan onto the list simply due to it not being a uniquely Japanese experience, but it’s nearby Osaka and is very popular and recommended by other travellers, and if travelling with children makes a good choice as one of the day trips from Osaka to consider.

There are some Japanese-orientated things there though especially some involving Japanese animation .

Universal Studios Japan opening hours are usually around 8.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. until 7 – 9 p.m. It depends sometimes if there are special holidays.

You can take a direct train from Osaka station which takes around 10-15 minutes to get there.

14. Miyama Village and Amanohashidate Day Trip From Osaka

Miyama Village is just north of Kyoto and is the quintessential rural village experience of Japan.

Nestled in the mountains it has a very chilled-out atmosphere and is the perfect escape from the cities.

the main reason for visiting is to see the rural life of Japan. There is a folk museum worth visiting as well.

Add on an onward trip to  Amanohashidate which is known as ‘one of Japan’s 3 scenic views’ where a sandbar covered in pine trees spans across the bay where you can also take boats out to see it from the sea.

There are some temples and shrines scattered around as well.

You can do this trip with public transport if you leave early otherwise a highly recommended tour to take is this one:

15. Kumano Kodo Day Trip From Osaka (To Nachi Taisha Shrine)

The Kumano Kodo is a bunch of hiking trails that are old pilgrimage routes still used today.

You can see some of the ’Three Grand Shrines of Kumano in the area if you have more time, but realistically the Kumano Kodo should be done for multiple days to experience the area properly.

Having said that to get a feel for the peaceful and serene place you can visit one of the Three Grand Shrines, the Nachi Taisha Shrine, on a day trip.

It’s one of the best shrines to photograph in all of Japan and has a waterfall nearby.

16. Lake Biwa Day Trip From Osaka

Ok, a lake doesn’t sound super exciting compared with some of the other day trips from Osaka on the list, but this is Japan’s largest freshwater lake.

It will take you around 40-50 minutes on a fast Shinkansen train.

At Chikubushima Island in the north of the lake, you can see old shrines and temples dating back over millennia which can be reached by a local ferry.

You can get active and cycle around the lake itself or take it easy on a boat, or one of the beaches.

There’s also a 17th-century castle to see called Hikone Castle.

This day trip from Osaka is a good option if you feel like having a relaxing day on the lake with some history thrown in.

17. Wakayama City Day Trip From Osaka

Wakayama City is an easy day trip from Osaka as they’re not that far away.

In Wakayama City, you can see Wakayama Castle and see lots of temples and shrines when walking through Oda Park. There are lots of Onsens in the city itself that you can relax in after walking around.

You can even stop over in Wakayama City going to or coming back from, the Kumano Kodo day trip. Although to save rushing around it’s best to do those as separate day trips from Osaka.

18.Tottori Day Trip From Osaka

This is a slightly different vibe for the day trips from Osaka to choose from. This trip is all about nature. Specifically large dunes by the sea that can reach up to 50 metres in height.

Located on the Sea of Japan coast they are impressive to see and there’s even a Sand Museum filled with sand sculptures.

You can also try sandboarding on the dunes as well and for the more adventurous there are even paragliding options.

Choose this option for a nature hit, but don’t expect much in the way of ‘traditional Japan.’

It takes around 2 and a half hours to get there by train from Osaka Station.

Save time and take a full-day tour there:

19. Awaji Island Day Trip From Osaka

Awaji Island is home to the largest suspension bridge in the world, over 4km long, that connects Kobe and Awaji which is worth seeing in itself, but there is much more than that.

Sumoto City is the biggest city there and you can see Sumoto Castle and other historical sites, so it’s not just about the suspension bridge.

Given its location not so far from Osaka, it makes for another one for the good day trips from Osaka to consider.

I won’t say one of the ‘best day trips from Osaka’ for this post as I would choose some of the others over this first. But it’s a good option if you have more time and this is your kind of thing.

You can’t reach it by train so you will have to take a bus from Kobe, or if you have your own car drive there.

20. Iga Day Trip From Osaka

Iga is one of the last fun ones for day trips from Osaka that you can do and is especially great for those with an interest in martial arts and history.

Iga is a small town but was well known during the old days in Japan as the best place for Ninja training at the Iga School of Ninjutsu.

These days you can visit the museum that’s all about Ninjas and see live performance reenactments of Ninja techniques that include throwing the famous shuriken ninja stars.

Iga can be reached by train in 2 hours.

So that’s just a glimpse into some of the things to do on day trips from Osaka.

There are many other places to see but I would recommend those for longer than just a day trip. The ones mentioned here are generally the best and most popular day trips from Osaka.

As I mentioned at the beginning of the article if you haven’t yet booked accommodation you can find and book a hotel in Osaka here .

Get a Japan Rail Pass here for travelling in Japan by train (the best way). Also if coming from Tokyo to Osaka for example and back again, or continuing onwards to Hiroshima, then the Japan Rail Pass will help.

Get a Kansai Thru Pass if you don’t plan to travel further away like to Hiroshima. The pass will allow you unlimited travel on transport and travel to places like Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and also to the international Kansai Airport.

While in Osaka take a look at what I recommend for the best things to do in Osaka .

And the best things to see on an Osaka Amazing Pass .

Check out some cool tours to do in Osaka itself:

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip.

Pick up the Lonely Planet Pocket Kyoto & Osaka (Travel Guide)

A friend Patrick, who is a regular visitor to Japan and an expert on the country, contributed the Kobe and Himeji sections as recommendations for the day trips from Osaka.

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These day trips can be perfect for those who are planning to visit Osaka Japan. However i loved some of the places and would love to visit myself whenever i plan for Osaka such as- Nooshima, Nagoya, Nara and Universal Studio Japan.

With limited time, you’ll want to come armed with a good Mount Fuji day trip itinerary. Below I will detail five awesome and totally different Mt. Fuji day trip ideas, because different people have different ways to travel, right? If you most important concern is seeing Japan s most iconic mountain from the best spots, check out my article on the 10 best Mount Fuji viewpoints !

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Home » Asia » Japan » 13 BEST Day Trips from Osaka, Japan

13 BEST Day Trips from Osaka, Japan

By Author Rebecca Crowe

Posted on Last updated: April 4, 2024

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

From the trails of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to the historic sights of Kyoto, here are the best day trips from Osaka you need to do!

Tokyo . Kyoto. Osaka . Those are the top 3 cities everyone should visit when travelling around Japan. It’s amazing how different these three places are. If you’re visiting Osaka, then chances are you’re a big foodie like me.

I absolutely loved basing myself in Osaka for a few days. For me, it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Japan, mainly thanks to its central location in the Kansai Region.

However, if you’re looking at exploring all this region has to offer, then I’ve put together all the best day trips from Osaka. These should really help when planning your Japanese adventure.

Whether you’re looking to escape into nature at the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or dive into history and architecture at Himeji Castle, these day trips are some of my favourite places to visit. 

Of course, there are some big hitters on this list, with major cities like Kyoto and Kobe being just a short train ride away from Osaka. Every place that I’m going to talk about is only a couple of hours from Osaka, so they’re very accessible in a day. However, if you want to save time, I’ll also link to some Osaka tours that include transportation too.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in and find out more about the best Osaka day trips for your next advenutre.

Day Trips from Osaka

Arashiyama bamboo forest.

Known for its natural beauty and the Instagram-friendly long bamboo reeds towering all around you, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest has to be one of the most popular attractions in Japan. 

Located just over an hour’s drive from Osaka or a one-hour 40 train ride on the Hankyu-Kyoto Line and then switching onto the Hankyu-Arashiyama line at Katsura, it’s a relatively easy day trip from Osaka. 

In the surrounding area of Arashiyama, make sure you carve out time to visit Tenryuji Gardens , which is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site. I think this is often overlooked in favour of the bamboo forest, but it’s definitely worth a visit! 

First off, I just want to say that I love the historic feel of Kyoto . As the former capital of Japan, there are plenty of places, like the central Shijō Kawaramachi area, that feel like you’re stepping back in time. As it’s just 24 minutes on the train from Shin-Osaka Station, it’s one of the easiest Osaka day trips on this list. Just jump on the Tokaido-Sanyo Line and you’ll be there in no time! 

Tradition is the name of the game in Kyoto. From some of the oldest sake breweries around to amazing and immersive tea ceremonies , there are plenty of experiences to enjoy here. I’d also recommend making time to visit the beautiful Fushimi Inari Taisha Shinto shrine.

If you want to visit one of the most important and reverend locations in Japan, jump on the bullet train on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen and head to Hiroshima . The travel time is only 1 hour and 20 minutes, but if you want a local to show you the sights, I’d check out this Osaka tour that guides you around Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Of course, the main thing to see and do in this part of Japan is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are poignant reminders of modern history’s lasting impact and, from experience, I can tell you the visit will stay with you long after you leave Japan.

Can I even talk about a day trip to Kobe without mentioning food tours? Known around the world for its premium-grade beef, Kobe has tons of amazing walking tours and restaurants to dive into. After just a 20-minute train ride, you’ll find yourself in this Japanese foodie heartland. 

Once you’re sated (and trust me, you will be!) soar above the ground on the cable car inside the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway . You’ll be treated to amazing views of Mount Rokko and the city below. If you prefer a more stationary platform, head to the Kobe Port Tower for equally amazing views. 

Himeji Castle

Located an hour and 20 minutes away by train lies the historic and beautiful Himeji Castle . As the biggest castle in the whole of Japan, if you visit just one historic building, I’d recommend this one. With a distinctive Japanese feudal style, it’s unlike a lot of architecture and the condition of the castle is insanely good.

One of the common tours around this area is to combine a trip to Himeji Castle with a visit to the Arima Onsen . For me, this is an ideal blend. Walk around the castle complex and soak up the history before relaxing in the warming onsen. Is this the perfect Osaka day trip? I think it’s definitely up there!

Do you want to visit the largest freshwater lake in Japan? Well, a day trip from Osaka to the stunning Lake Biwa can take as little as an hour if you visit the southern lake city of Otsu. Known for its beautiful temples, lakeside views, and forest and mountain trails, it’s the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of Osaka.

In terms of historical sites around Lake Biwa, you have the 17th-century Hikone Castle and the stunning Enryaku-ji , which is a Buddhist temple complex that harks back to the 8th century! 

Takeda Castle Ruins

If you don’t mind getting up early and enjoying a longer day trip, I’d highly recommend visiting the Takeda Castle Ruins. The fastest train routes clock in at two hours and 50 minutes, so it’s pretty far, but I think it’s worth it!

This historic site was a prominent 15th-century castle that stood high on the mountaintop. However, it was abandoned after the famous Battle of Sekigahara in the 1600s. Since then, it has been protected and restored and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. 

Let’s be honest, Nara is known for one thing in particular and that’s its unique deer park! Nara Deer Park is one of the most visited sites in Japan, thanks to the ability to explore this beautiful park and feed the cute deer at the same time. The best part? It’s just over an hour away from Osaka by train.

Of course, Nara Deer Park is also home to the Tōdai-ji temple . It’s here where you’ll find Daibutsu, a 15-meter-high giant Buddha statue that towers over you in the hallway. Honestly, it’s an intimidating, and inspiring sight in equal measure!

Wakayama City

Visiting Japan during the iconic Cherry Blossom season? The city of Wakayama lies around an hour and a half south of Osaka and has some of the best Sakura spots in the region. Make sure that you bring your camera to the Kimii-dera Temple for the best cherry blossom sightings!

Outside of Sakura Season, Wakayama has a great blend of art and culture, from the Museum of Modern Art to the imposing Wakayama Castle . If you’re looking for a chilled Osaka day trip where you can soak up some Japanese culture, Wakayama is going to be for you. 

Mount Koya (Koyasan)

If you’re after a truly spiritual day trip from Osaka, hire a car and drive one hour 45 south to Mount Koya , otherwise known as Koyasan. While you can get there on the train, I wouldn’t recommend the three changes each way for a day trip!

At its heart, Koyasan is a temple complex that is surrounded by nature. The main temples in Koyasan have to be Danjo-Garan and Kongobuji. Danjo-Garan is actually one of the oldest temples in this area and Kongobuji is the head temple of Kōyasan Shingon Buddhism, and both of them are around 1000 years old.

Awaji Island

Feel like a beach day? After a two-hour train-bus combo, you’ll arrive on the beautiful Awaji Island. Interestingly enough, this island links the major island of Honshu to the southern island of Shikoku. As a result, one of Awaji’s most famous sights is its giant suspension bridge that links the islands together.

It’s also a great place to visit if you’re a fan of anime and Naruto or Boruto in particular. Awaji is where you’ll find the Naruto x Boruto Theme Park Naruto x Boruto Theme Park . This park is filled with activities, fan-immersive experiences, and cool references to the anime!  

Kumano Kodo

Around one hour and 45 minutes in a car south will bring you to Kumano Kodo , one of the most ancient pilgrimage routes in Japan. So, pack your hiking boots, because I’m taking you on an adventure! 

The pilgrimage brings you to three distinct shrines known collectively as the Kumano Sanzan . They’re built all around the mountains and the trails bring you past waterfalls and forests along the way. Not only is it a sacred place that’s full of history, but it’s also an amazing hike! 

If you like your architecture to look a bit more striking, then you’re going to love Okayama. Located just an hour from Osaka on the train, the main attraction of the city is Okayama Castle, which has been renamed Crow Castle due to its striking black facade.

Want to spend more time soaking up the Okayama sunshine? Head to the iconic Okayama Korakuen Gardens. These formal gardens are one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, so you know they’re outstanding. If you’re looking for a day trip from your day trip, I’d recommend jumping on the ferry to Naoshima Island with its quirky open-air art roots. 

I really hope this article has helped plan your trip to this beautiful region of Japan. If you have any questions at all, just let me know in the comments below.

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About the Author

Rebecca Crowe is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about travel, food, and outdoor adventure. She is often found holding a taco, in an airport, or halfway up a climbing wall.

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The 10 Best Day Trips From Osaka You Should Definitely Try!

Day Trips From Osaka – Osaka is one of the biggest three destinations in Japan for tourists who are visiting for the first time, and it’s not hard to see why.

It’s an explosive city, full of glowing neon lights, massive crowds (both locals and tourists!), and hundreds of shops and restaurants crammed into small spaces … all of this alongside small, narrow alleyways hosting tiny bars, temples and shrines right in the middle of the cities, and famous rivers flowing right through its centre.

With so many things to see and do in the city itself, you might find it hard to make the time to do day trips, but due to the complex and intricate transport network within and around Osaka, day trips are as easy as 1-2-3!

We’ve listed below some of the best day trips you can do from Osaka, so strap on and prepare your pens!

The 10 Best Day Trips From Osaka

• Kobe & Arima Onsen
• Amanohashidate
• Hiroshima & Miyajima Island

Kyoto, one of the other three big destinations for first-timers to Japan. What many people don’t realise is that whilst it’s quite special to be able to stay in the extremely aesthetic and nostalgic city itself, it can quite easily be done as a day trip from Osaka. After all, it’s literally only a 30-minute train ride away!

We actually don’t even know where to get started for Kyoto. There are just so many sights to see and activities to do, but if we absolutely had to pick, then the gorgeous Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a worthy trip for the views, as is a visit to the delightful Nishiki Seafood Market for some fresh seafood for lunch, a stroll through the stunning Gion District for some nostalgic photos (you might even be able to spot a Geisha!), Arashiyama Bamboo Forest for the unique experience of walking under towering groves of bamboo, the climb through the thousands of torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, and lastly, a peek at the Kinkaku-ji Temple (aka the Golden Temple).

If you want to be part of a cool tour to visit Kyoto from Osaka, feel free to book this tour online .

And to read up more about Kyoto, click here: Kyoto Travel Blog .

The wonderful city of Nara boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, so if you think there are only deer here, you are way off the mark! In saying that, the deer are so very cute and should be the centre of your itinerary.

Nara was once an ancient capital of Japan, and to this day, the rustic charm of the city has not been lost. The area is littered with Buddhist temples and Shino shrines, you’ll spot people exploring in yukatas and wooden sandals, and during the sakura season, Nara presents one of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever come across.

If you want to visit Nara with a tour from Osaka, this one is our favorite .

For those who crave an experience with nature, but don’t want to travel too far outside of Osaka, then Minoo is the place to visit. It is literally a stone throw away from the busy city of Osaka (only 30-minutes via train!), but it may as well be hundreds of miles away as it’s peace and tranquillity is beyond what you would expect.

The town itself is quite humble, and the main attraction here is Minoo Park, particularly Minoo Waterfall. The 33m picturesque waterfall is a 40-minute easy hike from the beginning of the park, which is only a short walk from the station. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful foliage and temples. You’ll notice stalls at the beginning of the entrance selling maple leaf tempura – you must try this! They’re essentially maple leaves sprinkled with salt, mixed with sugar and wheat flour, deep-fried. They are some delicious biscuits.

Minoo is a great, green day-trip from Osaka, if we do say so ourselves!

If you have time, you can actually combine your visit to Minoo falls with the gorgeous Katsuoji temple .

Koyasan, or Mount Koya, is one of the most important religious landmarks of all of Japan. It’s located in the Kii Mountains of the Wakayama Prefecture and is revered by Japanese people and tourists alike. Whilst most past visitors will claim that Koyasan is a place that needs to be lived, not just visited, it can be easily experienced through a day trip. Whilst you might not get the full spiritual experience, it will still make for a memorable trip.

The trip to and from Osaka City to Koyasan, if organised property, will take 2-ish hours one way. If you want a leisurely trip, you will need to cut out some big sights (not the worst thing in the world!), but if you want to fit it all in, in one day, you will need to quicken your pace!

Some notable things to include in your itinerary include Okunoion Temple, the temple where Kobo Daishi passed, Kongobuji Temple, Garan, the central temple complex, and the multiple pilgrimage trails in and around Koyasan, most of which take a few hours.

More information about Koyasan here !

If you want to visit Koysana via a guided tour from Osaka, we highly recommend this day tour .

5. Kobe & Arima Onsen

Kobe is only a 15-minute train ride from Osaka City, and Arima Onsen is just over 30-minutes away from Kobe, thus making Kobe and Arima Onsen totally do-able in a day trip, and probably one of the easiest day trips you can whilst in Osaka!

Kobe itself is globally renowned as the centre point in Japan for experiencing melt-in-your Wagyu meat that most people can only dream of. Heading there, there are restaurants that serve those who are penny pinchers (Steakland Kobekan is a renowned establishment for offering premium-style yet affordable Kobe sets for lunch), and those after an A-grade Kobe beef experience (Kokubu, anyone?).

Read More : The Different Types Of Wagyu Beef

Apart from that, the ropeway is a popular and romantic date option, Kobe Harborland is great for those who want to do some shopping, and Kobe’s Chinatown is a great option for those after a unique culinary experience!

Arima Onsen is a popular onsen option for those in Osaka because of its close proximity, and so the crowds here are slightly larger than other onsen towns, but the trip is still well-worth it. It offers a unique experience due to the water composition, which produces ‘gold’ and ‘silver’ water deposits into the hot spring baths.

By the way, Arima Onsen has actually amazing Japanese traditional inns so if you want to stay overnight, check out our selection of the best Ryokan in Arima Onsen .

If you like hot springs, you have more options here with the best onsen towns around Osaka .

6. Wakayama

Wakayama is located down south of Osaka and is a great day-trip option for those who want to get back in touch with nature. There are plenty of unique sights and experiences to participate in here, but some of the stand-outs include visiting Mount Koya, exploring the Kumano area (made up of three significant shrines), and getting to know the city.

If you’re pressed for time, we recommend visiting Wakayama City only, as you can leisurely explore it without having to rush. Popular landmarks include the Wakayama Castle (an important historical site of the city which dates back to the 16th century and part of our 10 best castles in Japan selection), walking across the Ohashi Roka Bridge, the Kishu Toshogu Shrine where you can get stunning coastal views, and of course, the island resort of Marina City, which hosts Porto Europa (a fun amusement park), a fish market, a fresh fruit market, and an onsen onsite.

If you have more time to visit Wakayama area, we recommend you to check out Nachi Falls and Yunomine Onsen .

7. Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate is a small coastal town up north of Osaka. It’s one of the day trips that takes slightly longer to get to, but when you arrive, the slowed down time and leisurely atmosphere will loosen your mind and muscles and you can enjoy exploring the place at your own pace.

Amanohashidate is actually famous for its sandbar, a long pine tree covered phenomenon that connects Miyazu Bay to the main island. Many local tourists head here to get a glimpse of it because it is said to look like it depicts a pathway between heaven and earth! You can travel over to the other side of the bay and go bike riding and hiking for views.

Aside from that, there are shrines and temples that you can pay a visit to, but generally a trip here is quite toned down and you’ll be able to get the R&R that you’ve been ‘pining’ for.

To go to Amanohashidate with a tour from Osaka, we highly recommend you to book this one !

8. Hiroshima & Miyajima Island

Visitors to Hiroshima can attest that visiting this city can be very emotionally taxing and is better done overnight or even over a few days to really take in all the history and culture that this area has to offer. However, we understand that some people just don’t have the luxury of a few days to spare, so we can guarantee that, yes, Hiroshima and Miyajima Island can be done as a day trip from Osaka if planned properly (yes you’d start early, and yes it would actually be for the entire day!).

Some of the stand out things that you should include in your itinerary include paying a visit to the Peace Memorial Museum, which details the historic event that happened to Hiroshima in 1945, walking around the peace memorial park and viewing the Atomic Bomb Dome, and trying Hiroshima okonomiyaki (a local favourite!).  

That is, of course, only half your day.  

You would then take a train to the port nearby and catch a ferry across to Miyajima Island where you can spend the rest of the day (or the first half of the day, depending on how you want to travel) taking photos with the native deer on the island, eating to your heart’s content, and either hiking or catching the cable car up to the top of the mountains for the views. Don’t forget to capture an image of the famous Itsukushima Shrine whilst you’re there!

To visit Hiroshima and Miyajima with a guided tour, feel free to book this cool day trip .

Traveling from Osaka to Himeji takes less than an hour, which is why it’s a popular choice for those slightly pressed for time but also wanting an experience outside of the city life. The Himeji Castle, also known as the ‘white heron castle’ is one of the most popular and beautiful in Japan (as considered by the locals). Its pure white exterior is quite unique, and with its grand structure standing tall against the sky, it’s quite a favourite amongst photographers. And this is not even touching on its picturesque grounds and interior!

Himeji also offers visitors plenty of garden scenery to admire (Koko-en Garden is where it’s at!), temples to explore, food to discover (Himeji oden is said to be Japanese soul food…who can resist that?), and of course, the famous Taiyo Park, an attraction that features replicas of many of the famous landmarks around the world (such as the Pyramids of Egypt) right here in Japan. The purpose of this park was to allow people with travel difficulties to be able to see the world as well, and the park raises awareness for this issue as well as money. A great cause if we do say so ourselves!

Sitting at a relatively far distance of 2-hours away from Osaka, Ise is probably one of the day trips that need extra care and attention when planning a day trip for, as getting to and from there will take approximately four hours. However, if you’re the type to enjoy searching for off-the-beaten path shrines and temples and spots deep in nature away from crowds and noise to take in the beauty and atmosphere, then a trip to Ise is highly recommended.

The most famous attraction in Ise is the Ise Jingu Shrine, considered to be Japan’s most sacred shrine and quite often referred to by locals as the “Heart of Japan”. People make the effort to travel here as it is believed that spending time in the surrounding greenery and nature can reinvigorate the mind and soul and spirit.

Whilst you’re there, don’t forget to spend time perusing through Ohiraimachi, a quaint but bustling town full of olden-style buildings that boast shops, restaurants and souvenir stores.

In the middle of Ohiramaichi is Okage-yokocho, a strip of re-created buildings that reflect the Edo Period and Meiji Period buildings back in history. Grab a meal of freshly made udon noodles, snap some photos of the historic buildings, and purchase some cute Japanese souvenirs before making your way back to Osaka.

Osaka City may pack a punch when it comes to jam-packed city activities for tourists, but when you’re willing to travel from 30-minutes up to 2-hours outside of the city centre, boy will your world be turned upside down the choices you have.

Every single city and attraction listed above is beautiful and unique in its own right, and so if you want to spend less time in the city, we recommend you add a few to your itinerary the next time you’re in town.

And to get more info about Osaka, you can continue to read these blog posts: Osaka Travel Blog .

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Home » Travel Guides » Japan » 15 Best Day Trips from Osaka

15 Best Day Trips from Osaka

The Western area of Japan known as Kansai is home to the aesthetically stunning city of Osaka, brimming with culture and peppered with unmissable sites and experiences.

From ancient feudal castles surrounded by cherry blossoms to gorgeous temples, Japan’s second largest city has an incredible amount to offer the intrepid traveller.

The Kansai region, however, is known for its vastly different atmosphere to Tokyo, and the unique scenery, culture and cuisine sees people flocking West to experience the numerous islands, lakes and coastal cities found there.

The best thing about the breathtaking sights in Kansai is that they are all easily reachable in a day from Osaka thanks to the shinkansen bullet train system and the ferry network combined.

Read this quick handy guide to discover the best day trips from Osaka.

Positively bursting with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the ancient capital of Kyoto was once the most important city in the Japanese empire and as such is home to a wealth of fascinating cultural destinations.

Among the numerous beautiful attractions, the Ryōan-ji rock gardens stand out as being particularly picturesque.

Another unmissable visit is the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, complete with 10,000 shrine gates and the majestic Omokaru Stones.

With so many temples and shrines populating the former capital, you’ll have no trouble finding a slice of Buddhist culture.

Kyoto is also incredibly easy to reach from Osaka; a mere 15 minutes on the bullet train.

Older still than the ancient capital of Kyoto, Nara is a harmonious collection of nature, spirituality and historical sites that will tempt you to stay for longer than a single day.

For a taste of nature, take a stroll through the beautiful Nara Park where you’ll come face to face with the friendly deer that roam there.

Of all the temples and shrines found in Nara, there are a couple that you simply can’t miss: the Todaiji Temple is home to the largest Buddha statue in Japan, which is no small feat and made more impressive by also being the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world.

Kasuga Taisha is also an incredibly important Shinto temple that can’t be missed when in Nara.

3. Kurashiki

A world away from large city life is the quaint town of Kurashiki, full of gorgeous canals, bridges and tree-lined shores that make for the perfect break from Osaka.

The town once held great commercial significance in the Edo period and the results of the wealth passing through are still apparent.

The ornate architecture and painstakingly carved opulent bridges all convey imperial wealth.

There’s also a lot to keep you busy thanks to the converted historic warehouses all around town.

These have been converted to boutique shops, galleries and museums that will keep visitors intrigued all day long.

4. Shirahama Beach

Unless people are willing to undertake a long journey, it’s hard to find any white sandy beaches close to the city of Osaka.

The ever-pragmatic Japanese, however, have circumvented this by importing beautiful white sand from Australia to the hot-spring resort town of Shirahama.

The beach there is a taste of paradise and has open-air hot springs for visitors to enjoy as well as fireworks displays during the summer.

These summer months see crowds of people arriving to make the most of the sunny coastal environment, so expect it to get a little busy.

Shirahama is easily reachable by train in around two hours from JR Shin-Osaka.

Home to world famous beef, buzzing sake districts and an incredibly developed Chinatown, the port city of Kobe is without question a destination not to be missed if you’re in Osaka.

A mere 30 minutes away, you’ll find a friendly, international atmosphere here with enough to keep you distracted for a week, let alone a day.

For history, head to the various museums and memorials dedicated to the Great Hanshin Earthquake, amongst other things.

For food, wagyu beef is unmatched in its quality here, and for something to drink, go and explore the Nada area which is jostling with sake breweries.

6. Himeji Castle

The surreally beautiful Himeji Castle, also known as Shirasagi, is widely recognised as one of the most attractive castles in the country and is without a doubt a national treasure.

The network of towers built in traditional Japanese feudal fashion is truly stunning, and the building is reminiscent of a Japanese version of a fairytale castle.

The complex is vast, comprised of over 80 buildings and many acres of wooded parkland encircling it.

Here you’ll find gorgeously manicured gardens and ponds, which you can explore at your own leisure.

7. Hiroshima

Known for its tranquillity and serenity as a conscious response to the events of World War II, Hiroshima is a must-see city if you’re in Osaka.

Known as the peace capital of the world, here you can learn about its history at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where you’ll find not only fascinating historical memorials but also a gorgeous park with incredible annual cherry blossom displays.

You can also find fantastic local cuisine in Hiroshima, which is a rarely known characteristic of the city.

After a delicious meal, head over to the Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima to enjoy the breathtaking views.

8. Naoshima Island

Venturing out to the Seto Inland Sea near Honshu, you’ll find the small island of Naoshima, which is an intriguing mix of avant-garde modern art and nature.

The harmonious combination comes as a result of architects and artists turning the island into their haven and erecting not only installations all over Naoshima, but also museums, art buildings and more.

It’s the perfect day trip for art lovers and curious travellers alike and has enough to keep visitors entertained for a whole day if not more.

Be sure to leave Osaka early to have enough time to explore fully before heading back to the city.

9. Lake Biwa

Japan’s largest freshwater lake is a veritable wonderland of nature and culture, with a wealth of things to see and do around its shores.

Lake Biwa is only 40 minutes from Osaka and can be reached by bullet train, making it a perfect, convenient getaway from the city.

You’ll find castle towns, cruise boats and numerous cycling routes around the scenic areas circling the lake.

Also worth a visit is Chikbushima Island, found in the northern part of the lake and housing stunning temples and shrines that date back as early as the 5th Century.

10. Ise Grand Shrine

Widely known as the most culturally important shrine in the whole of Japan, the Ise Grand Shrine is a popular destination with curious travellers and locals on more meaningful pilgrimages.

The shrine itself was built in the 3rd Century, also making it one of the oldest in the country.

Though the inner sanctums aren’t open to the public, you can still explore the exterior and the beautiful forests that surround it.

11. Mount Koya

Another incredibly holy site in Japan is the gorgeous Mount Koya: the final resting place of the founder of Shingon Buddhism.

You’ll find him at the Okunoin Cemetery, not only a culturally significant destination but a beautiful place to visit, surrounded by leafy paths and cherry blossoms.

Also open to the public is Torodo Hall, which houses over 1000 lanterns and Kongobuji Temple.

Here you’ll find a stunning Buddhist temple with contains Japan’s largest rock garden.

12. Echizen Washi Village

In the rural landscape that is Echizen, you’ll find the Echizen Washi Village which is the traditional home of paper making in Japan.

Considering how long the country has been making use of paper made by traditional methods, it’s a fascinating day trip to take, made better by the fact that you can take part in workshops to make your own paper products.

13. Kanazawa

At a time during the height of the Edo period, Kanazawa was one of the biggest, most powerful and wealthiest settlements in Japan, and the evidence of this is still apparent today.

Its time as both a temple town and a castle town has left a cultural mark on the area, and among the fascinating attractions found today are geisha and samurai districts, artisan shops and gardens.

The most stunning garden is without a doubt Kenrokuen, named the third best garden in the whole of Japan.

14. Awaji Island

You can find Awaji Island around 40 minutes away from Osaka, nestled between Honshu and Shikoku and connected to Akashi City by the longest suspension bridge on the planet.

This is also worth spending a couple of hours exploring, considering what an incredible feat of engineering it is.

Once on Awaji, head to the main city of Sumoto where you’ll be spoilt for choice with sightseeing options.

From natural hot springs to the famous and majestic Sumoto Castle, there’s easily a few days worth of attractions to see.

One of the most attractive is the Awaji Yumebutai, a collection of gardens including the largest.

15. Wakayama City

Much of Wakayama City is built in traditional feudal Japanese style, and as such, makes for a captivating destination to explore, full of towers and ornate bridges.

Head over to Oda Park to get your fill of temple and shrine sightseeing before making your way down to Kuroshio Market to catch one of Japan’s famed tuna displays.

Wakayama is also famous for having a high number of bathhouses dotted around the city and a visit to one after a long day of walking is the perfect way to end the day trip.

15 Best Day Trips from Osaka:

• Shirahama Beach
• Himeji Castle
• Naoshima Island
• Ise Grand Shrine
• Echizen Washi Village
• Awaji Island
• Wakayama City

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

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48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Osaka

The Top 12 Day Trips From Osaka

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Osaka is perfectly placed in the heart of Japan, offering visitors an enormous wealth of exciting day trips. From Osaka, mountains, coastline, and serene lakes are at your fingertips, as are the historic cities of Nara, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. All of these places are a short train ride away from Osaka, and can be enjoyed with ease.

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Once the capital of Japan, this compact city makes for a perfect day trip from Osaka. Nara is most famous internationally for its central park that is filled with thousands of friendly deer who bow to anyone they feel might offer them a biscuit. From the park, you can easily reach two of Nara’s most historic and religious sites Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga-taisha Shrine. While the focus is very much on these historic Nara sites, the city center also offers fantastic restaurants and boutique shops to explore. You can even pick up some "deer poop" local sweets which are simply peanuts covered in chocolate or a number of other deer-related souvenirs.

Getting There : Hop on the Yamatoji Line towards Nara Station, the journey should take around 45 minutes.

Travel Tip : Pick up some deer sable cookies for feeding the deer sold outside the park and at various stores. They also make for a cute but cheap souvenir thanks to their cute appearance.

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Kyoto is one of the most special cities in Japan. Surrounded by mountains it’s part-lively city full of tiny jazz bars tucked and boutique shopping and part-frozen in time. It’s the heart of traditional Japanese culture and it’s a pleasure to get lost in the history around you. You can see the geisha make their way to their nightly work, visit wooden tea houses, or pay a visit to some of the 2,000 shrines in the city. Some of the highlights include the hike to the iconic Fushimi Inari shrine, a wander around Gion and Southern Higashiyama, and a visit to the golden and silver pavilions. Make sure you visit the historic Nishiki Market for street food and souvenirs.

Getting There : Take the rapid train from Osaka Station, it takes 23 minutes to reach Kyoto Station.

Travel Tip : As Kyoto is such a popular tourist spot, try and get an early start if you’re looking to visit some of the sights without crowds.

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An easy day trip from Osaka that’s often overlooked, Nagoya is an entertainment hub full of shopping options, pachinko parlors, and Nagashima Spa Land one of Japan’s largest theme and water parks. The TV Tower is perhaps the most iconic structure of the city where you can catch a fabulous view of the city from two observation towers. As a city, it offers plenty of green space to explore including Tsurumai Park and Meiji Park. Nagoya Castle, in Meiji Park, is a particularly scenic visit during the spring and fall seasons. Make sure to pay a visit to one of the many art museums in the city or take a walk on the harborside.

Getting There : Take the train from Kyoto station to Nagoya station and you’ll get there in about 35 minutes.

Travel Tip : Nagoya is also the gateway to the Chubu region which is ideal for hikers as you’ll have access to the Japanese Alps and Mount Fuji.

Universal Studios Japan

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A day at Universal is always fun and, since this is in Osaka itself, it’s the perfect day trip if you’re pushed for time and don’t want to leave the city. Universal Studios Japan is the first in Asia and has unique areas like an expanded Wizarding World of Harry Potter complete with a Great Lake.

Getting There : From Osaka Station City, take the Osaka loop line to Nishikujo Station, then take the Sakurajima line to Universal-City Station. The journey will take less than half an hour.

Travel Tip : There’s also a ferry service from Universal Studios Japan to Osaka Aquarium which takes 10 minutes.

Amanohashidate

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If you’ve visited Kyoto city before or are interested in visiting the Japanese coast then a trip to Amonhasidate is a must. It’s one of the top three scenic views in Japan and an outstanding area of natural beauty. The area is a natural sandbar that joins two parts of Kyoto together across the Miyazu bar. Generally viewed from above it can also be walked or cycled making for a perfect day trip if you want to enjoy culture, as you’ll find Shinto shrines both before and after crossing the sandbar, but primarily stay outdoors.

Getting There : Take the highspeed train to Kyoto which will take 23 minutes. From the station, you can get the train or highway bus to Amanohashidate. The highway bus runs three times per day and tickets can be booked through Willer. 

Travel Tip : Make sure to pick up some local snacks or souvenirs as you make your way up to the cable car, a great deal of local produce is sold in the small shops you’ll pass on the way up.

Miyajima (Shrine Island)

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This island off the coast of Hiroshima is most famous for its iconic torii gate, the towering red shrine that stands in the water just off the island. While this is the furthest you can go for a day trip, it can still be done comfortably as long as you start off early. It’s certainly worth it for such a captivating place with wild deer roaming around, temples, and staggering mountain and coastal views. Also known as Shrine Island there are, unsurprisingly, many other shrines to visit apart from the famous Itsukushima Shrine and some of the most interesting include Omoto Shrine and Kiyomori Shrine.

Getting There : Take the 1.5 train from Osaka to Hiroshima Station. Following that, change to the JR Sanyo Line and alight at Miyajimaguchi station. Walk to the JR ferry for Miyajima Island which will take about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip : Go shopping and try street food on the historic Omotesando shopping street.

Awaji Island

Take a trip along the world’s longest suspension bridge to this island which can be accessed from Awaji City. There is a lot to see if you love modern architecture, steaming onsen , and dramatic coastal scenery. Don't miss the centuries-old Sumota Castle which makes for an amazing view at sunset. The island has a long history of Ningyo Joruri puppet theatre so seeing a show there is a must as well as a visit one of the world's largest botanical gardens the Kiseki no Hoshi Greenhouse.

Getting There : Take the rapid train from Osaka station to Sannomiya Station and then take the high-speed bus to Awaji Yumebutai Station. From there you can make your way to the ferry crossing. The journey should take between 2 and 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip : If you’d like to carry on to the town of Fukura, you can catch the ferry and see the Naruto Whirlpools and bridge.

Himeji Castle

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One of the most famous castles in Japan sits above the town of Himeji and can be seen from every angle as you wander the streets. The feudal castle is fully explorable and also hosts the Himeji Museum of art which features a number of historic pieces focused around the castle and local area. The castle gardens are just as dynamic as the interior so get ready to see cherry blossom trees, diverse flora, and impressive views of the town below. Behind the castle itself, you’ll find Himeji Shrine which was one of Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of Japan’s most visited attractions.

Getting There : Take the 30-minute train from Osaka to Himeji Station. Once there, you can hop on the Loop Bus which will take you to the top sites of Himeji.

Travel Tip : Head up Mount. Shosha via the cable car for amazing views of the castle itself and to learn more about the history of Himeji.

This is a true hidden gem of the Kyoto area. Moriyama sits at the edge of Lake Biwa, which is a large and peaceful lake in the heart of Japan. Sitting in an outcrop that stretches out onto the lake is the Lake Biwa Museum , which is one of the most impressive museums in the area, featuring an aquarium and several incredible fossils of prehistoric creatures found in the local area.

Getting There : Getting to Moriyama from Osaka simply requires hopping on the Tokaido-Sanyo line at Osaka Station and heading straight to Moriyama Station, and it takes less than an hour.

Travel Tip : Continuing north from Moriyama takes you to even more remote lakeside villages which give you a more relaxed and intimate way of enjoying the lake and its surrounding scenery.

georgeclerk / Getty Images

Hiroshima is a remarkable day trip for its humbling history but the city that exists today is a sparkling beacon of peaceful beauty. The people are kind and warm; the local spin on okonomiyaki is delicious, and the historic sites are a must-visit. Traveling to the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome is a must, and it might be sorrowful but it also brings a newfound appreciation for the importance of international peace and friendship.

Getting There : The Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen bullet train takes visitors from Shin-Osaka Station straight to Hiroshima Station in approximately 90 minutes.

Travel Tip : While visiting Hiroshima, you can also get to Miyajima Island where you can visit one of Japan’s most sacred and beautiful sites: the Miyajima Shrine (also known as the Itsukushima Shrine).

Kobe is often overlooked but a trip to this coastal city is very worth it if you love shopping or exploring unique museums. Kobe also has its own Chinatown where you can go for unique ramen dishes, dumplings, or interesting souvenirs. Make sure to pass by Ikuta Shrine, a shrine dating back to 201 A.D. that’s dedicated to love and marriage and is often visited by young couples looking for good luck. While there is no shortage of wagyu restaurants in Kobe, but Steak Aoyama is well worth a visit.

Getting There: Kobe is a quick 30-minute train ride from Osaka Station.

Travel Tip : Climb Kobe Port Tower for a 360-degree view of the city 328 feet (100 meters) above sea-level.

Located between Osaka and Hiroshima is an underappreciated destination. Okayama is a prefecture that’s full of gardens and shrines to explore, and its capital city of Okayama is a beautiful coastal city that encompasses all of Japan’s most unique aesthetic details: city, mountains, and sea. One of the great three gardens of Japan, Korakuen Garden is located here which features a tea house and rice fields as well as landscaped areas to wander and cherry blossom and bamboo groves. The garden's diverse flora means there's always something blooming. Don’t leave without visiting the majestic Okayama Castle with its surrounding moat.

Getting There : From Osaka Station, the train journey to Okayama Station takes 50 minutes.

Travel Tip : If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season then don’t miss Handayama Botanical Garden which has a thousand blooming trees and is generally not as busy as other viewing areas.

The Top 12 Day Trips From Kyoto

48 Hours in Hiroshima: The Ultimate Itinerary

Kyoto Guide: Planning Your Trip

18 Best Things to Do in Japan in Summer

The Best Time to Visit Japan

The 8 Best Museums in Hiroshima

The Top 15 Destinations to Visit in Japan

The Top 15 Things to Do in Hiroshima

Your Trip to Hiroshima: The Complete Guide

Getting Around Osaka: Guide to Public Transportation

The 15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

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Your Trip to Osaka: The Complete Guide

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16 Best Day Trips from Osaka

Home » Blog » Japan » 16 Best Day Trips from Osaka

With lots of accommodation and transportation options, Osaka makes a perfect home base for exploring this part of Japan. These day trips from Osaka are packed with history, culture, nature, and culinary adventures, all within a couple hours of the city.

As Japan’s third largest city , Osaka earns a top spot on many traveler’s itineraries. And with its vibrant nightlife, abundant street food, and laid-back locals, there are so many exciting things to do in Osaka that you could easily spend your whole trip here.

But if you’re visiting Osaka, we highly recommend taking advantage of Japan’s world-class transportation infrastructure to explore further. Ancient cities, woodland temples, floating castles, and therapeutic hot springs are just a hop, skip, and jump away.

For each of these day trips from Osaka, we’re listing the top sights and activities to base your itinerary on. We’re also giving directions, whether you’re using public transportation or you have your own set of wheels.

Day trips from Osaka Guide

For more tips and advice for traveling around Osaka, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• Top day trips from Osaka
• Getting around Japan by train
• Renting a car in Osaka
• Round up of day trips from Osaka

Top recommended day trips from Osaka

If you’re looking for the absolute best day trips from Osaka, here are our top recommendations: 

• Himeji Castle

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these destinations and more ideas for fun day trips from Osaka. 

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

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Before we get to the good stuff, we have a few helpful resources we want to share with you…

Traveling around Japan by train 

Japan’s railway system is known around the world for being clean, fast, and efficient. Between the famous Shinkansen bullet trains, regional rails, and local metros, most of the major tourist destinations in Japan are accessible by train.

The only major downfall about the trains in Japan is that a single ride can be expensive. Depending on where you’re going, it can be very expensive.

But you know us; we love finding sneaky ways to travel (even notoriously expensive countries) on a budget. And we love sharing our secrets with you, so here it is: our VERY detailed guide to train travel in Japan .

Want more tips on traveling Japan on a budget? We have a few practical money-saving tricks up our sleeves that you’ll definitely want to save!

Getting a rental car in Osaka

Having your own vehicle when visiting Japan will give you a lot more freedom to explore the best day trips from Osaka. 

We personally like using Booking.com (formerly RentalCars.com) when we rent vehicles around the world, as they gather options from all sorts of rental companies in one place. It makes it really easy to compare prices and vehicles so you can determine which is the best option for you.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

• Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
• Booking.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site (formerly RentalCars.com) in the past. 

Before you book, be sure to read our guide to renting a car in Japan . It’s packed with things you need to know before you get behind the wheel, as well as insider tips to help you feel confident on the road.

Now let’s get to it, shall we…

1. Minoo Park

• At a glance: Lush park with walking path to a stunning waterfall
• Distance from Osaka: 20.7 km / 12.9 miles
• Time: 45 minute train ride / 27 minutes driving

After a couple days of weaving through crowded city streets in Osaka, we were craving some time in nature. We did a little research and found that just 45 minutes north of the city center sits a nature lover’s oasis.

With a paved walking path that leads through forested mountains to a waterfall, this park is a popular spot for local couples and families to escape city life for part of a day. 

We visited Minoo on a holiday weekend, and while it was busy with locals, it wasn’t too crowded. Plus, we only spotted a handful of other foreigners, so it felt more like a hidden gem and less like a tourist trap.

Good to know: It’s free to enter the park, but the train to get to Minoo Park is not covered in the JRail Pass . A return trip from Osaka Station costs 540 yen per person. You’ll also want to budget a bit of money for lunch or snacks along the way.

Top things to do in Minoh Park

We have a complete Minoo Park day trip guide , but here are  few top highlights:

• Follow the path to Minoo Waterfall. The paved walking path is mostly flat(ish), making it a great option for families with small children and strollers. It takes around 45 minutes to get to the waterfall, which marks the end of the path. You’ll find snack vendors as well as a few restrooms along the way.
• We’d recommend finding a stand where they are making them fresh instead of just buying a bag on display.
• Explore Ryuan-ji Temple , a peaceful Buddhist site known as the birthplace of the lottery in Japan.
• Choose a more challenging hiking trail that takes you off the paved walking path and deeper into the forest.
• Discover the insectarium , a small museum showcasing a diverse collection of both biological specimens and living insects, including a butterfly garden.

How to get there

By train: From the Osaka-Umeda Station (near Osaka Station), take the Hankyu-Takarazuka Line (best if it is the Express Train because it makes fewer stops). Change trains at Ishibashi Handai-mae Station and get on the Hankyu-Mino Line heading to Minoo. The whole trip takes about 45 minutes.

By car: It’s a very straightforward drive from Osaka to Minoh Park via Route 423. Take the left exit at Hakushima 2-chōme intersection and follow signs for Route 43 toward Katsuoji Temple/Mino Park.

• At a glance: Cultural capital of Japan with tons of famous sights
• Distance from Osaka: 55.6 km / 34.5 miles
• Time: 13 minute train ride / 54 minutes driving

Kyoto is one of the most popular cities to visit in Japan, and for good reason. 

With historic districts like Gion and Higashiyama, famously beautiful streets like Pontocho Alley, and iconic landmarks like Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the Fushimi Inari gates, a day trip to Kyoto deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Top things to do in Kyoto

We have a whole guide to the best things to do in Kyoto , but here are a few highlights that can easily be done on a day trip:

• See the orange gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine , one of the most iconic sights in Japan. Following the pathway through thousands of orange torii gates as sunlight streams through the spaces between them is a truly magical experience that we can’t quite describe.
• Explore the historic districts of Gion and Higashiyama. Gion is famously known as the “Geisha District” and one of the best places to spot the renowned Japanese performance artists. Higashiyama is perhaps the best preserved part of Kyoto, full of traditional wood shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Insider Tip: This bamboo grove nearby is smaller but way less crowded, and we actually liked it better!
• Walk the Philosopher’s Path , a trail of stone steps laid by Japan’s famed philosopher, Nishida Kitaro, which connects the temples of Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Eikan-do/Zenrin-ji, and Nanzen-ji.
• Photograph the famous Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) , a dazzling Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf and set in a beautiful lakeside garden.

By train: The quickest way to get from Osaka to Kyoto is on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen–Nozomi 200 Nozomi Tokyo, which departs from Shin-Osaka Station every 9 minutes and takes only 13 minutes to arrive at Kyoto Station. Individual fare is ¥3,280 (~$22 USD), or free with your JR Pass. Alternatively, the regular Tokaido-Sanyo Line takes 42 minutes and costs ¥580 (~$4 USD).

By car: There are a couple of different routes you can take from Osaka to Kyoto and they both take roughly 50-55 minutes.

• Take Route 13 out of Osaka and get on the Dainikeihan Expressway, following signs for Hirakata/Kyoto City.
• Take Route 11 out of Osaka and follow the Meishin Expressway to Kyoto City.

By guided tour: This highly-rated tour is packed with Kyoto’s top highlights, including Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Enjoy a traditional Kyoto tofu dish for lunch included in your tour.

3. Hiroshima

• At a glance: Vibrant city with tragic historical significance
• Distance from Osaka: 336 km / 209 miles
• Time: 1 hour 25 minute train ride / 4.5 hours driving

The name Hiroshima is known around the globe for one terrible reason: ground zero for the world’s first nuclear attack.

On August 6, 1945, the United States detonated the first atomic bomb over Hiroshima , instantly killing 80,000 people and flattening 90% of the city. Tens of thousands more died of radiation exposure and cancer in the years following the blast.

If you have limited time in Hiroshima, we recommend visiting the Peace Park and touring the Peace Memorial Museum. This can take about half a day and is totally doable on your own since there are lots of English signs.

As you can imagine, this is heavy stuff. But it’s incredibly important for people to see places like this in order to better understand our world history, to pay respects to lives lost, and to move forward without repeating the mistakes of our past.

If you have extra time, we highly recommend exploring more of the city. Hiroshima has a palpable energy and a spirit of resilience that is deeply moving, and there are lots of fun things to do.

Top things to do in Hiroshima

We have a detailed guide for the perfect Hiroshima day trip from Osaka , but here are a few top recommendations:

• Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and learn all about the devastation caused by the atomic bomb. 
• Tour Hiroshima Peace Park. This open-air park is dedicated to all victims of the atomic bomb and contains a number of monuments, art installations, and memorials.
• Pay your respects at the Children’s Peace Monument , filled with paper cranes and dedicated to all the children who lost their lives to the attack.
• See the Atomic Bomb Dome , one of the only structures left standing after the blast.
• Insider Tip: Nagataya makes the best okonomiyaki and is conveniently located just steps away from the Peace Park.
• Explore Hiroshima Castle , a replica of the 1590s original (which was destroyed by the atomic bomb). You can wander the grounds for free, or pay ¥370 (~$2.50 USD) to enter the keep, which contains museum exhibits and an observation deck.
• Take the ferry to Miyajima Island. Known for its picturesque “floating” torii gate, wild deer, and views from Mount Misen, this small island is worth a visit. Bonus: the ferry to Miyajima Island is covered by the JR pass!

By train: The quickest way to get from Osaka to Hiroshima is on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen–Mizuho 601 Mizuho Kagoshimachuo, which takes about 1 hour 25 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station. Individual fare is ¥11,150 (~$74 USD), or free with your JR Pass.

By car: If you have a rental car in Japan, you’ll have a straightforward journey from Osaka to Hiroshima via major highways and expressways. The drive is about 4 hours and 40-45 minutes one-way.

By guided tour: Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima and tour the city by bus on this guided day trip . Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and other important historical sites before enjoying specialty okonomiyaki for lunch. Afterwards, explore the island of Miyajima before returning to Osaka.

• At a glance: Ancient capital famous for its wild deer population
• Distance from Osaka: 32 km / 20 miles
• Time: 50 minute train ride / 31 minutes driving

​​Nara is a region full of cultural treasures. The city was the first capital of Japan from the years 710 to 794 and there are plenty of stunning temples and shrines to explore.

But the main reason tourists flock to Nara is for the adorable, friendly deer that populate the city. Believed to be messengers of the gods in the traditional Shinto religion, the Sika deer are considered sacred and are allowed to roam freely among the city streets, parks, and temples.

All around Nara Park, you’ll see vendors selling crackers for tourists to feed to the deer. This has been going on so long that the deer have actually learned to bow to humans in exchange for food. So if you want to channel your inner Snow White and get friendly with some deer, a day trip to Nara is a must.

Note: On our first trip to Nara, we decided not to feed the deer, but we did buy a few crackers when we returned with our daughter in 2023. As with any animal encounter, we recommend doing a little research and making your own observations before deciding whether or not to partake. Our Nara deer park guide is a great place to start!

Top things to do in Nara

We’ve curated the perfect Nara day trip itinerary , including these highlights:

• Meet the famous “bowing deer” at Nara Park. The 1,000-plus small, spotted Sika deer that live within the Nara city limits are not shy of humans, and you’ll feel like a real-life Disney princess with them following you around.
• Get off the main walking street and explore deeper into Nara’s parks and temples, where you’ll find fewer crowds and deer that aren’t surrounded by selfie sticks.
• Crawl through “Buddha’s Nostril” at Tōdai-ji Temple. The hole carved through the pillar is supposedly the same size as Buddha’s nostrils on the bronze statue for which this temple is famous. Crawling through is said to bring enlightenment in the next life.
• Try freshly-made mochi at the famous Nakatanidou .
• Visit a Japanese garden. We recommend Yoshikien Garden, as it is free for all foreign visitors. It’s located next to the larger and more famous Isuien Garden, which is particularly beautiful in autumn.
• Explore Naramachi , an area in town where streets retain their historic charm.

By train: The most direct route from Osaka to Nara is via the Osaka Loop Line–Yamatoji-Rapid Nara, which departs Osaka Station every 15 minutes. Stay on the same train until you reach Nara Station (about 50 minutes / 12 stops). The fare is ¥820 (~$5 USD).

By car: Osaka to Nara is an easy 30-minute drive via Routes 13 and 163.

By guided tour: This sightseeing tour from Osaka makes stops in both Kyoto and Nara. In Nara Park, you’ll have a chance to meet the famous wild deer and explore Todai-ji Temple. This tour also includes a buffet or beef shabu shabu lunch.

5. Himeji Castle

• At a glance: Hilltop complex widely recognized as Japan’s most spectacular castle
• Distance from Osaka: 94.4 km / 58.7 miles
• Time: 47 minute train ride / 1 hour 18 minutes driving

Known as one of Japan’s 12 original castles as it was never destroyed by earthquake, war, or fire, Himeji Castle is both a National Treasure and World Heritage Site.

It’s nicknamed the “White Heron Castle” due to its elegant white exterior and how it takes on the appearance of a bird taking flight.

The grounds consist of 83 buildings and more than a thousand cherry trees, making it a renowned location for hanami (flower-viewing) in the early spring. 

If you come for the cherry blossoms, be prepared for crowds. If your main goal is to explore the castle, we’d recommend visiting outside of sakura season to avoid wait times.

Good to know: A thorough visit through the castle takes 3-4 hours. Admission is ¥1,000 (~$6.75 USD) for the castle or ¥1,050 for both the castle and Kokoen Garden. 

Top things to do in Himeji Castle

• Explore the castle keep. The 600-year-old seven-story castle offers spectacular views over Himeji from the top floor. Take a tour or make sure you have a map on hand – the labyrinth of passages connecting the castle buildings was specifically designed to confuse enemy intruders.
• Wander through Kokoen Garden. This series of 9 separate, walled gardens display different styles of the Edo period. The reflecting ponds, cascading waterfalls, swaying bamboo, and colorful flowers create a serene atmosphere that beautifully illustrates the changing of Japan’s seasons.
• Glide around the castle’s inner moat in a traditional Japanese boat. Boat tours are seasonal and operate only on weekends.

By train: You can either take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line Special Rapid Himeji or the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Himeji Station. The regular train costs ¥1,520 (~$10 USD) and takes 1 hour 8 minutes, while the bullet train takes 28 minutes and costs ¥4,130 (~$28 USD).

From Himeji Station to the castle is about a 20 minute walk, or you can take a local bus.

By car: The drive from Osaka to Himeji Castle is about 1 hour and 18 minutes via major highways and expressways.

By guided tour: Entry to Himeji Castle is included in this tour , which combines 3 of the top day trips from Osaka for a jam-packed day of sightseeing.

• At a glance: Cosmopolitan port city home to world-famous beef
• Distance from Osaka: 33.6 km / 21 miles
• Time: 12 minute train ride / 33 minutes driving

Situated between the mountains and the bay, the port city of Kobe is one of the most convenient day trips from Osaka.

Kobe is best known, of course, for its namesake beef, infamous for its high price tag. Strictly regulated by the Japanese government, fewer than 4,000 cattle meet the requirements to earn the name “Kobe beef” each year. A steak at a premium restaurant can cost as much as ¥30,000 – a whopping $200 USD. That’s a lot of moo-la (see what I did there?)!

Though often overshadowed by the bougie beef, Kobe also produces a quarter of the country’s sake. Japan’s famous rice alcohol can be served hot or cold and can cost anywhere from ¥1,500 to ¥10,000 ($10-70 USD).

Top things to do in Kobe

• Insider Tip: Look for restaurants with lunch menus, as they’re often cheaper than dinner.
• Glimpse the iconic Kobe Port Tower. Though currently closed for renovations with plans to reopen in 2025, you can still enjoy the sight of the tower that defines Kobe’s skyline.
• Cruise Kobe Bay. There are several cruise operators around the port that offer boat tours around Kobe Bay.
• Ride the ropeway to Nunobiki Herb Gardens. This hillside oasis has 12 gardens showcasing about 200 varieties of herbs and flowers, totaling more than 75,000 blooms. Enjoy experiences like making your own fragrance or herb sachet, or soaking in a herbal footbath.
• Hike to Nunobiki Falls. About halfway up to the herb gardens, the Nunobiki Ropeway passes over a series of cascading waterfalls. There’s a hiking trail you can take back down past the falls to Shin-Kobe Station (as long as you’re not carrying too many herb souvenirs). The trail is about 1.7 km one-way and takes about 30 minutes.
• Taste sake in Nada-Gogo , one of the best-known sake regions in Japan that has been in the game for almost 7 centuries. Lots of the sake breweries offer tastings and tours, sometimes with English options.
• Wander the historic Kitano district , an area with well-preserved Western-style residences and stylish cafes and restaurants. This area highlights the city’s international influence.
• Score some deals at Sanda Outlets , a collection of factory stores from popular brands and high-end designers.

By train: The quickest way to get from Osaka to Kobe is on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen going toward Mizuho 601 Mizuho Kagoshimachuo. It takes only 12 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Shin-Kobe Station and the fare is ¥3.470 (~$23 USD), or free with your JR Pass. Alternatively, the Tokaido-Sanyo Line–Local Nishi-Akashi train from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station is 35 minutes for ¥420 (~$3 USD).

By car: Take Route 3 heading north out of Osaka. Stay on Route 3 all the way to Kobe.

By guided tour: Experience the highlights of Kobe on this full-day tour . Wander the seaside promenade at Kobe Port and take in the historical architecture of Kitano Ijinkan Street. This robust tour also includes visits to Arima Onsen and Mount Rokko (#7 and #14 on this list of day trips from Osaka).

7. Koyasan / Kumano Kodo

• At a glance: Sacred mountain and starting point of Japan’s ancient pilgrimage trail
• Distance from Osaka: 89.4 km / 55.6 miles
• Time: 2 hour train ride / 1 hour 33 minutes driving

Koyasan (or Mount Koya) is a secluded temple town nestled in the mountains of the Kii Peninsula. Dotted with ancient Buddhist relics, vegetarian eateries, and temple stays, a day trip to Koyasan offers a peaceful escape from bustling Osaka.

Koyasan serves as a gateway to the Kumano Kodo, an ancient pilgrimage trail that brings hikers to small villages, past picturesque farmsteads and historic shrines, and through giant cedar forests. 

The Kumano Kodo is utterly enchanting and one of our absolute favorite things we’ve done in Japan (and we’ve been here 3 times!). You won’t be able to do the whole hike on a day trip, but if you’re intrigued and want to know more, check out our full Kumano Kodo guide .

Top things to do in Koyasan / Kumano Kodo

• Hike Kumano Kodo , an ancient pilgrimage trail that weaves through remote mountains and tiny villages where you can stay at traditional guesthouses. (Again, not day trip material, but soooo worth an extra few days in your itinerary!)
• Extend your visit to include a temple stay. FYI, a “temple stay” doesn’t exactly mean staying with monks; it’s more or less a stay at a ryokan with Buddhist vegetarian meals and a chance to observe monks in their morning ritual. Still a memorable experience!
• Explore Okunoin Cemetery , the largest cemetery in Japan and the holiest site in Koyasan. Hundred year old cyprus trees and more than 200,000 tombstones line the path to where Kobo Daishi (the founder of Shingon Buddhism) rests in eternal meditation.
• Visit Kongobu-ji , the head temple of Shingon Buddhism and location of Banryutei, Japan’s most expansive rock garden.
• Participate in Buddhist ceremonies and practices , such as meditation, forest therapy, flower arrangement, or shakyo (hand-copying scripts called sutras ).
• Savor the unique culinary experience of shojin ryori , the vegetarian cuisine of Buddhist monks.

By train: To get to Koyasan by train from Osaka, you’ll need to take the Nankai-Koya Line Express Gokurakubashi from Shin-Imamiya Station to Gokurakubashi Station. 

From Gokurakubashi Station, take the Nankai Koyasan Cable to Koyasan Station, where you’ll then catch the 21 Koyasannai Line bus Okunoin-mae via Ichinohashi-guchi.

The entire trip from Osaka to Koyasan takes about 2 hours. Note that the Nankai trains are not covered by the JR Pass , but the fares are affordable. The whole journey sums ¥1,790, about $12 USD.

By car: Head east on Route 13 out of Osaka. At the interchange Higashiosaka JCT, follow signs for Kinki Expressway toward Matsubara/Wakayama. After about 34 km, take exit Kishiwada-Izumi IC toward Kishiwada/Izumi, then turn left onto 230. Turn right at the next set of traffic lights.

Drive for 3 km, then turn left onto 170, following signs for Kawachinagano. After 2.1 km, turn right onto 480, following signs for Chichioni. Stay on 480 for 13 km, then turn left onto 125, following signs for Hashimoto/Route 24.

Continue onto National Route 480, making a right at Kasada Higashi intersection to stay on Route 480 (follow signs for Ryujin/Koya/The World Heritage/Niutsuhimejinja Shrine). Turn right again at Yatate intersection, staying on Route 480 with signs for Ryujin/Town Central Koya.

After 7.2 km, make a left on 53 into Koyasan.

By guided tour: This private day trip offers an intimate experience for you and your group. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a cable car ride and walking tour of Mt. Koya, sharing stories and history not found in any guidebooks. 

8. Arima Onsen

• At a glance: One of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring towns
• Distance from Osaka: 38.7 km / 24 miles
• Time: 58 minute train ride / 34 minutes driving

Nestled in the mountains near Kobe, Arima Onsen is a charming resort town famous for its historic hot springs. Its proximity to Kobe and Osaka make it a popular day trip or weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike.

The therapeutic waters of Arima Onsen can be found in two types of natural hot springs—gold and silver—each boasting unique mineral properties believed to have healing powers. 

Kinsen (“gold water”) is high in iron, giving it its distinct golden-brown color. These springs are supposed to help with skin conditions and sore muscles. Ginsen (“silver water”) is said to treat muscle and joint pain with deposits of radium and carbonate.

The town of Arima Onsen is developed but compact, and most attractions are within walking distance of one another. We recommend seeing any sights you want to see before hitting the hot springs to relax your tired muscles.

That or, you know, just onsen-hopping the whole day…

Top things to do in Arima Onsen

• Soak in a traditional hot spring at one of the public bath houses, or find a ryokan with an onsen that is open to day-trippers.
• Hit the trails and enjoy alpine scenery, mountaintop temples, and observation decks with sweeping views.
• Treat your feet at Taiko no Ashiyu. This foot bath is free to use and is said to help with bruises as well as muscle and joint pain – especially nice after a hike!
• Enjoy the serenity of Atagoyama Park , with plum trees blooming in early spring, magnolias in early April, and a viewpoint overlooking the steamy hot spring town.
• Find the waterfall in Tsuzumigataki Park , named for the sound’s resemblance to the beating of a small drum.
• Stroll along Taiko-dori , the town’s main street lined with cute shops.

By train: From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen Hikari 591 Hikari Hakata to Shin-Kobe Station. Next, take the Hokushin Line to Tanigami Station. From there, take the Kobe-Dentetsu Arima Line to Arimaonsen Station.

Note: the last leg of this journey from Tanigami to Arimaonsen Station is not covered by the JR pass and costs about ¥410 (~$2.75 USD).

By car: The drive from Osaka to Arima Onsen takes a little over half an hour and is pretty straightforward. Take Route 11 northbound out of Osaka and exit Ikeda toward Chugoku Expressway. Continue onto National Route 176.

At the interchange Nishinomiya-Yamaguchi JCT, follow signs for Hanshin Expressway No.7 Kitakobe Route toward Central Kobe. Continue onto Route 7, then take exit Nishinomiyayamaguchi-Minami toward Arima Onsen. Continue straight on 98 to your destination.

By guided tour: On this full-day tour , a visit to Arima Onsen is bookended with the iconic Himeji Castle and Mount Rokko (#4 and #14 on this list of day trips from Osaka). Note that entry to the hot spring is not included in the booking fee.

9. Takeda Castle ruins

• At a glance: Mountaintop archaeological site that appears to float amongst the clouds
• Distance from Osaka: 126 km / 78.3 miles
• Time: 2 hour 31 minute train ride / 1 hour 46 minutes driving

When the fog rolls in on Takeda Castle on early autumn mornings, the mountaintop ruins appear to float amongst the clouds, giving it the nickname of “Castle in the Sky”.

Also known as “Japan’s Machu Picchu”, Takeda Castle was originally built in 1411 and abandoned in the early 1600s. No buildings are left standing, but the foundations were restored in the 1970s-80s and opened for tourism.

Walking around the stone foundations gives you a good idea of the castle’s layout while treating you to panoramic mountain vistas.

To see the famous illusion of the floating castle, your best bet is a sunrise visit in October or November. The most popular view is from Ritsuunkyo, about a 10-minute drive from Asago town center. From the parking lot, hike 10-40 minutes up the trail to observation decks 1 and 2 for the best views.

Top things to do in Takeda Castle ruins

• View the famous “floating castle in the sky” from the Ritsuunkyo viewpoints on the mountain slopes opposite the ruins. The sea of clouds appears about once every 3 days on early autumn mornings. Visitors are asked to pay a ¥300 environmental fee (~$2 USD).
• Hike the scenic trails from Takeda Station to the mountaintop castle.
• Explore the castle ruins and enjoy majestic mountain views. Note that the ruins are closed to the public in January and February.

By train: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Himeji Station, then transfer to Hamakaze 1 Limited Express Tottori to Takeda Station. From there you can take a bus to the castle ruins, but it’s quicker to take a taxi. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up to the ruins on one of two trails behind Takeda Station.

By car: Take Route 11 northbound out of Osaka and get on the Chugoku Expressway. At the interchange Yokawa JCT, follow signs for Maizuru Wakasa Expressway toward Sanda-Nishi/Maizuru.

Stay on Expressway 27 until Kasuga Interchange, then continue onto Kitakinki Toyooka Expressway. Take exit Wadayama IC for Bantan Road toward Asago/Himeji. Follow signs for Route 312 and continue to your destination.

10. Lake Biwa

• At a glance: Largest lake in Japan with diverse ecosystem and unique lake culture
• Distance from Osaka: 63.8 km / 39.6 miles
• Time: 52 minute train ride / 53 minutes driving

Note: There are multiple towns around Lake Biwa you can visit, and time and distance from Osaka depend on which city you’re visiting. The above info is for Otsu, the closest Lake Biwa town to Osaka.

As Japan’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Biwa has 235 km (146 miles) of coastline with multiple towns and islands to explore.

Trying to narrow down what to do on a day trip can be overwhelming, but if you choose your activities carefully, it’s possible to combine a few in a day trip. It’s also easy to navigate from town to town, with JR rails encircling the entire lake.

Top things to do in Lake Biwa

• Get out on the water in Otsu. At the BSC Watersports Center, you can rent canoes, kayaks, or SUPs, or learn to sail or windsurf. Or, for something more relaxing, try a leisurely lake cruise.
• Have a beach day at Omi-Maiko. This 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) stretch of white sand is a popular spot in the summer for swimming, windsurfing, or lounging in the shade of the whispering pine trees.
• Spot the famous “floating” torii gate at Shirahige Shrine.
• Take a ferry to Chikubu Island. This sacred island with both a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine is known as “the Island of the Gods”. Each spiritual site has a different ritual that is said to bring good luck.
• Get your adrenaline pumping at Biwako Valley , a popular ski resort with breathtaking lake views. If you’re visiting in the summer, go for the views and ziplining, or try their “Skywalker” rope course.
• Explore the old town of Omihachiman , a former merchant hub on the ancient Nakasendo road connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. The well-preserved town features a picturesque canal and offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal history.
• Visit Hikone Castle. The hilltop keep overlooking the lake has survived since 1622 and is one of only 5 castles in Japan listed as National Treasures.
• Wander the Mizunomori Water Botanical Garden. With a name meaning “water forest”, Mizu-no-mori displays aquatic plants in a tranquil setting. The Lotus Pavilion is the star of the show, where you can even try lotus-flavored ice cream or udon.
• Discover the Lake Biwa Museum and learn about the area’s history and wildlife through a series of interactive exhibits. Bilingual tours are available.

For a day trip from Osaka, we recommend focusing on one region of Lake Biwa and choosing 2-3 things to do in that area. So let’s break this down by region.

South Lake Biwa

Otsu, Moriyama

Situated in the southwest corner of Lake Biwa and just a 20-minute train ride from Kyoto Station, Otsu is the capital and largest city of Shiga Prefecture. Otsu is home to Mt. Hiei Enryakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a famous “floating” hall built over the water. Otsu is also the location of the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival and a hub for water sports and lake cruises.

Moriyama is home to the Lake Biwa Museum and Mizunomori Water Botanical Garden. You can get from Otsu to Moriyama by the Ishiyama Sakamoto Line and the Tokaido-Sanyo Line.

West Lake Biwa

Shirahige Shrine, Omimaiko Beach, Biwako Valley

Some of the top sights on Lake Biwa are found on the west side between Otsu and Takashima. The JR Kosei Line runs right up the western shore from Otsukyo Station, granting easy access to all points of interest.

Get off at Omi-Maiko Station (30 minutes from Otsukyo Station) for the popular Omimaiko Beach or Omi-Takashima Station to get to Shirahige Shrine.

For Biwako Valley, take the Kosei Line to Shiga Station and make your way to the Biwako Valley Ropeway.

North Lake Biwa

Takashima, Nagahama, Chikubu Island

The Kosei Line from Otsu stops in Takashima and continues to Omi-Shiotsu Station, where you can transfer to the Hokuriku Line to Nagahama. Ferries run from Nagahama to Chikubu Island.

Alternatively, you can go the more adventurous route of crossing the lake by cruise from Takashima to Nagahama by way of Chibuku Island.

East Lake Biwa

Hikone, Omihachiman

From Otsu, transfer from the Ishiyama Sakamoto Line to the Tokaido-Sanyo Line, which makes stops in both Omihachiman and Hikone.

By train: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station. Transfer to the Kosei Line to Otsukyo Station.

By car: Follow the Meishin Expressway to Kyoto-higashi Interchange. At the interchange, you can take Route 161 up the western side of Lake Biwa, where you’ll find Omimaiko Beach and Shirahige Shrine. 

Alternatively, take Route 1 to head toward Otsu. Off Route 1, Route 559 hugs the eastern shore of the lake and Mizunomori Water Botanical Garden, Fujigasakiryu Shrine, and Hikone Harbor.

By guided tour: New to Get Your Guide, this tour offers round-trip transportation from Osaka or Kyoto to the Miho Museum, Kyu-Chikurin-in, and Lake Biwa. Explore the Shirahige Shrine and its iconic torii gate that stands in the lake.

• At a glance: Historic city with green space and quirky attractions off the typical tourist path
• Distance from Osaka: 21.1 km / 13.1 miles
• Time: 29 minute train ride / 22 minutes driving

Often overlooked by visitors to Osaka, Ikeda makes for a fun and easy day trip with less tourist traffic.

A day trip to Ikeda offers cultural experiences with Edo-period entertainment arts, such as rakugo (comedic storytelling) and kabuki. You can see performances at the Rakugo Museum and Gofukuza Theater, respectively (but know that they’ll be performed in Japanese).

One of the coolest things to do in Ikeda is a visit to the Cupnoodles Museum, where you’ll learn all about the history and science of the globally-beloved convenience food. The museum features a tasting room with vending machines selling limited and rare flavors, as well as two “factories” where you can get creative and craft your own personalized cup of instant noodles or chicken ramen.

There are also opportunities for nature escapes in Ikeda, with parks, gardens, and hiking trails. Spring and autumn are especially beautiful times to visit to see cherry blossoms and fall foliage.

Top things to do in Ikeda

• Hours: opens at 9:30 a.m. with last admission at 3:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays and holidays.
• Admission: entrance to the museum is free. To make your own noodles costs ¥500 per cup, while the Chicken Ramen Factory is ¥1,000 per person. Reservations are required only for the Chicken Ramen Factory.
• Stroll Satsukiyama Park. Stretching halfway up Mt. Satsuki, the symbol of Ikeda, this park boasts hiking trails and an observation tower that offers sweeping views of Osaka. The park is also a popular spot for hanami (flower-viewing) with sakura in the spring and azaleas, (the official flower of Ikeda, in May.
• Visit Ikeda Shiroato Park, where you can see the remaining ruins of the original Ikeda Castle, as well as the reconstructed main keep.
• See a traditional Japanese performance of kabuki or rakugo at Gofukuza Theater or the Rakugo Museum.
• Catch a show by the Takarazuka Revue , an all-female theater troupe that performs Broadway-style productions at the Takarazuka Grand Theater, just a 30-minute train ride from downtown Ikeda.

By train: Take the Takarazuka Main Line from Osaka-Umeda to Ikeda Station.

By car: Stay on Route 11 heading north, then take Kawanishi-Obana toward Gofukubashi/National Route 176/Prefectural Route 13 and continue on Route 176 to Ikeda.

• At a glance: Picturesque riverside town known for its green tea
• Distance from Osaka: 45.1 km / 28 miles
• Time: 1 hour train ride / 47 minutes driving

Nestled between the more popular tourist destinations of Kyoto and Nara (#1 and #3 on this list), Uji makes a great choice for a day trip if you want a break from the big city crowds.

Uji is renowned for producing premium green tea of unmatched quality. You can take your pick of restaurants, traditional tea houses, and shops to taste the coveted drink, as well as a variety of matcha-flavored snacks and sweets, such as soba and ice cream. One place to try is Tseun, Japan’s oldest tea shop since 1160, which serves green tea parfaits and rice dumplings.

Aside from tea, Uji is most famous for its iconic Byodoin Temple. Built in 998, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning display of Buddhist Pure Land architecture surrounded by serene reflective ponds. The highlight is Phoenix Hall, which you might recognize if you have a ¥10 coin in your pocket.

The tranquil Uji River gently bisects the town. Lined with weeping willows, lush foliage, and cute shops, the riverfront is a lovely place for stroll. Be sure to stop at Uji Bridge, one of Japan’s oldest (though it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times). The bridge is famously connected to one of Japan’s most important literary works, the 11th-century novel The Tale of Genji .

Top things to do in Uji

• Join a traditional tea ceremony at Taihoan tea house. The experience only costs ¥1,000 (about $7 USD) and includes a bowl of matcha and a Japanese sweet.
• Grind your own matcha at Fukujuen Ujicha Kobo workshop.
• Tour the famous Phoenix Hall at Byodoin Temple. Having never been destroyed by fire or other disasters, Phoenix Hall is one of few surviving Heian-period wooden structures. You can tour Byodoin Temple for ¥600 (~$4 USD) and Phoenix Hall for an additional ¥300.
• Cruise or stroll the Uji River. 
• Visit Ujigami Shrine , thought to be Japan’s oldest standing shrine.
• Explore Mimurotoji , known as the “flower temple” due to its beautiful gardens.

By train: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station. Transfer to the Nara Line to Uji Station. 

By car: Follow Route 12 northeast out of Osaka. At Moriguchi JCT, follow signs for Kinki Expressway toward Daini Keihan Road. Stay on Kinki Expressway to Kadoma JCT and follow signs for Dainikeihan Expy/Hirakata/Kyoto City. Continue on Route 1. At Kumiyama JCT, follow signs for Keiji Bypass toward Meishin Expressway/Nagoya/Uji, then take exit Uji-nishi IC. Get on 241 and continue to Uji.

By guided tour: Visit Uji on this World Heritage Sites day tour . After experiencing the highlights of Kyoto (#1 on this list of day trips from Osaka), your guide will take you to Uji to explore the famous Byodoin Temple.

13. Wakayama

• At a glance: Sacred sites, beautiful beaches, and a unique local ramen style
• Distance from Osaka: 78.6 km / 48.8 miles
• Time: 1 hour 16 minute train ride / 1 hour 10 minutes driving

Enveloping the end of the Kii Peninsula, Wakayama Prefecture is known as the “Kingdom of Fruit” for the number of farms and orchards within its borders. With around 600 km (~373 miles) of coastline, the area is also famous for seafood and beaches, while the presence of Koyasan and Kumano-Kodo (#6 on this list) make it an important spiritual destination as well.

The prefecture’s capital is Wakayama City, strategically built on Wakaura Bay to protect western Japan against attacks from the east. A day trip to Wakayama City offers a mix of culture, history, modern attractions, and culinary adventures.

Top things to do in Wakayama

• Visit the iconic Wakayama Castle. Originally built in 1585, this strategic fortress still retains its original moat and stone wall, the rest having been destroyed in WWII and reconstructed. The hilltop tower offers panoramic views over the city, and 600 or so cherry trees display breathtaking blossoms in the spring.
• Wander Momijidani Teien Garden . Next to Wakayama Castle, this Edo-period garden is named for its maple leaves that turn bright red in autumn. There’s also a teahouse within the garden, where visitors can enjoy traditional Kishu tea and sweets.
• Take the ferry to the nearby islands of Tomogashima . The overgrown ruins of an abandoned military fort create a hauntingly beautiful scene, famous for its resemblance to the floating island in Studio Ghibli’s Castle in the Sky .
• See the unique Awashima-jinja Shrine . Dolls dedicated from all over Japan fill the front hall of this colorful seaside shrine where women come to pray in the March 3rd Hina Nagashi ritual.
• Explore Marina City , a man-made resort island in Wakaura Bay featuring a European theme park along with waterfront shopping and dining. Visit Kuroshio Market for just-caught seafood, or Kinokuni Fruit Village for fresh produce from local Wakayama farmers.
• Get a view from Tosho-gu Shrine and Kimii-dera Temple.
• Pick fresh fruit at one of Wakayama’s orchards.
• Have a beach day.
• Bonus: sample soy sauce where it originated. A 40-minute train ride on the Kisei Main Line will bring you to the picturesque town of Yuasa, the birthplace of the beloved salty condiment. Tour a factory and, if you’re feeling adventurous, try the soy sauce ice cream.

By train: From Osaka Station, take the JR Kuroshio line #7 Limited Express Shirahama to Wakayama Station. From there, it’s about a half hour walk to the city center, or you can take a local bus for only ¥230 – less than $2 USD.

By car: Follow Route 16 onto Route 4 heading southwest along Osaka Bay. At Rinko JCT, follow signs for Hanwa Expressway and get on Kansai Airport Expressway. At Izumisano JCT, follow signs for Hanwa Expressway toward Sennan/Wakayama, then take exit Wakayama IC.

• At a glance: Urban center and transportation hub that combines history and industry
• Distance from Osaka: 173 km / 107.5 miles
• Time: 50 minute train ride / 2 hours 15 minutes driving

Located in the heart of Japan, Nagoya is the country’s 4th most populous city, an industrial center, and one of Japan’s most important transportation hubs.

The city developed around Nagoya Castle, originally built in 1610. Sadly, along with most of the city’s historic buildings, the castle was destroyed during the 1945 air raids. A reconstruction now stands in its place.

Nagoya’s culture of industry and manufacturing can be seen at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and the SCMAGLEV & Railway Park, a museum that showcases rail history from steam to levitating maglev trains where you can see retired trains and try your hand at a simulator.

Top things to do in Nagoya

• Important Note: The castle is scheduled to be torn down in 2024 and rebuilt with wood for greater historical accuracy. Visitors cannot currently enter the castle keep because it isn’t up to earthquake safety standards. 
• Try Hitsumabushi , a Nagoya specialty where unagi (freshwater eel) is eaten in a specific four-step process with certain sides and condiments.
• General admission: ¥500 (~$3 USD)
• Space out at the Nagoya City Science Museum , home to one of the world’s largest planetariums.
• Touch the sky at Midland Square , Nagoya’s tallest building. The Sky Promenade on the top three floors is one of the highest open-air rooftop observation facilities in Japan and offers uninterrupted views of the city. The rest of the building houses offices, restaurants, high-end shopping, special events, and a cinema.
• Take the fam to Legoland or Nagashima Resort . The colorful themed attractions at Legoland are perfect for families with young kids, while there’s something for everyone at Nagashima Resort, an amusement park with rides, a water park, onsens, shopping, and a flower park.

By train: Easy-peasy – take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station all the way to Nagoya Station.

By car: Take Route 11 onto Meishin Expressway, following signs for Kyoto. At Kusatsu JCT, continue onto Shin-Meishin Expressway toward Kusatsu-Tanakami IC/Higashi Meihan Expressway/Shigaraki/Kameyama/Ise Expressway. Then at Kameyama-nishi JCT, take the right fork onto Kinki Expressway. At Yokkaichi JCT, follow signs for Higashi-Meihan Expressway toward Nagoya. After about 24 km, this road becomes Route 5 and continues to Nagoya.

15. Mt. Rokko

• At a glance: Accessible mountain peak known for its natural beauty and stunning views
• Distance from Osaka: 34.6 km / 21.5 miles
• Time: 1 hour 20-45 minute train ride / 44 minutes driving

Just north of Kobe, Mt. Rokko is the highest peak in the mountain range of the same name. From 931.3 meters (3,055 feet), the peak offers panoramic vistas over Kobe and Osaka. Seeing Kobe lit up below at night is known as the “$10 million view”.

A day trip to Mt. Rokko provides an escape from the city with opportunities for active, outdoor, and relaxing activities.

The mountain is accessible by ropeway (gondola) or an old-school open-air cable car. Both the ropeway and cable car stations, as well as all major tourist attractions on the mountain, are connected by a bus that runs on a loop.

Top things to do in Mt. Rokko

• Ride the scenic ropeway or cable car up to Mt. Rokko.
• Take in views from the Rokko Garden Terrace or the observation deck next to the cable car platform.
• Wander the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden . The garden is open March – November with cherry blossoms in the spring, summer wildflowers, and colorful fall foliage. Adult admission is ¥900, about $6 USD.
• Play a round at Japan’s first golf course . The Kobe Golf Club was established in 1903 by a British expat and is now a full 18-hole course.
• Discover the Rokko Morione Museum . This quirky museum displays a collection of music boxes and other mechanical instruments and offers unique experiences, such as “concerts without performers”, a “sound walkway” through a tranquil garden, and a make-your-own music box workshop. General admission is ¥1,500 (~$10 USD), some experiences may cost extra.
• General admission: ¥2,500 (~$16 USD)
• Lift pass: ¥1,600 weekday pass (~$11 USD), ¥3,300 weekend day pass (~$22 USD), ¥250 single-lift ticket (~$1.70 USD)
• Rental fees extra

By train: There’s no direct train line from Osaka to Mt. Rokko, but getting there is an experience in itself. Choose one route for the trip there and the other for return to experience both the cable car and ropeway.

• Cable car: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line Rapid Himeji from Osaka Station to Rokkomichi Station. Walk 1 minute to the JR Rokkomichi bus station and catch the #16 bus to Rokko Cable Shita. Walk 1 minute to Rokko Cable Shita Station and take the cable car to Rokko Sanjo Station.
• Ropeway: Take the Kobe Line Limited Express Shinkaichi from Osaka-Umeda Station to Shukugawa Station. Walk to the adjacent bus station, Hankyu Shukugawa, and take Arima Route (A23) Narai to Arima Onsen Hot Springs. Walk 20 minutes (or take a taxi) to the Rokkoarima Ropeway station (also called Arima Onsen Station – confusing). A scenic gondola will take you up to Mt. Rokko.

Once you arrive at either the cable car or ropeway station on Mt. Rokko, you can use the local Rokko Sanjo Bus to get to all the major attractions.

By car: Take the Hanshin Expressway toward Kobe. Exit onto Route 43 at the Ashiya toll gate. After about 1.7 km, turn right, then turn left on Route 2. Turn right at Narihira Bashi Hashizume intersection onto 344, following signs for Arima/Royu Rd. Continue onto Royu Driveway. Turn right at Hoden Toll Gate (before the tunnel). Keep left after the toll to head south on 16 and continue to Mt. Rokko.

By guided tour: This full-day sightseeing tour includes stops at Himeji Castle and Arima Onsen (#4 and #7 on this list of day trips from Osaka) before enjoying panoramic views from the enchanting Mount Rokko.

16. Awaji Island

• At a glance: Island escape known for hot springs and gourmet cuisine
• Distance from Osaka: 102 km / 63.4 miles
• Time: 1 hour 52 minute train ride / 1 hour 19 minutes driving

Situated between the islands of Honshu and Shikoku in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, Awaji-shima is a relatively small island with a long, eclectic list of claims to fame. From history to mythology, whirlpools to hot springs, puppets to onions, travelers of all kinds can surely find something to interest them on Awaji Island.

Legend says that Awaji was the first island in Japan to be created by the Shinto gods, and you can see the creation myth reflected around the island. One example is in Awaji’s longstanding history of puppetry, which is said to have begun as entertainment for the gods’ children.

Awaji Island is also known as “the region of food” and has historically produced gourmet foods for the Imperial Court. Fresh seafood and marbled beef are among the island’s proudest delicacies.

Then there are the onions. Awaji’s mineral-rich soil provides the perfect environment for growing some of the sweetest onions on the market. It’s a whole thing; besides tasting the famed bulbs, tourists can snap a photo of a giant onion statue, or snatch up a fresh one in an onion UFO game (the arcade game with the claw, y’know?).

Top things to do in Awaji Island

• Relax in the island’s hot springs . The most famous are the Minamiawaji Hotspring District and Sumoto Hotspring. Check first to make sure your chosen hotspring accommodates day trips, as some are reserved for overnight guests.
• Sample the local cuisine , such as Awaji beef, fresh seafood, or—you guessed it—onions.
• See the famous Naruto Vortex , a huge natural whirlpool between Awaji and Shikoku Island.
• Visit Hokudan Earthquake Memorial Park , the epicenter of the 1995 Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake. The park features a museum and an earthquake simulator, as well as a preserved section of the fault line that was displaced by the 1995 quake.
• Stop at Izanagi Jingu Shrine , believed to be the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan.
• Enjoy a traditional Ningyo Joruri performance at the historic Awaji Puppet Theater.
• Cross the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge that connects Awaji and Kobe. From its completion in 1998 until 2022, this feat of engineering held the title of the world’s longest suspension bridge.

By train: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line Special Rapid Himeji from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station. Walk 3 minutes to Shinki Bus Kobe Sannomiya Bus Terminal. Then take the Kobe – Fukuri bus [Minami Awajishi] to Midori PA on Awaji Island.

By car: Take the Hanshin Expressway No. 3 toward Kobe. At Myodani JCT, follow signs for Akashi Brg/Kitasen Rd/Myodani/Tarumi/Myodani IC/Tokushima/Sanyo Expressway.

At Tarumi JCT, follow signs onto Kobe Awaji Naruto Expressway toward Tokushima and continue to Awaji Island.

By guided tour: On this new tour from Get Your Guide, you’ll have a chance to explore the natural beauty and landmarks of Awaji Island, as well as the Naruto Whirlpools and the city of Kobe (#5 on this list of day trips from Osaka).

Round up of the best day trips from Osaka

Here’s a recap of all the best day trips from Osaka so you can see everything in one place.

• Koyasan/Kumano Kodo
• Arima Onsen
• Takeda Castle ruins
• Awaji Island

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• One Week in Japan: Best Itinerary for your First Visit
• Most Beautiful Places in Japan You Need to See for Yourself
• Cherry Blossoms in Japan: When & Where to See Them
• Autumn in Japan: Where & When to see Fall Foliage

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10 Unforgettable Daytrips From Osaka

A myriad of vibrant local cultures and activities, all within a short reach.

One of Japan’s three largest cities, Osaka is renowned globally for its thriving culinary scene, flashy shopping districts, and overall playful atmosphere. While it’s easy to get lost amidst the neon lights and the bustling street vendors, Osaka's surrounding region of Kansai contains an array of destinations, each boasting their own distinct character, despite being just a short train ride apart. From nearby metropoles, to floating fortresses, to forest temple retreats - here are some of the other major sights that can be accessed within an hour or two of Osaka!

Offering a stark contrast to Osaka’s bustling, neon-lit modernity, the old capital of Kyoto is where some of the deepest roots of Japan’s traditions and culture lie. Here you can admire historic properties and businesses that have been preserved for millennia. Many travellers are savvy enough to opt for the “Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka” triad for their itinerary, but lesser-known is how nearby the latter destinations are to one another. With Kyoto just 50 minutes from Osaka by commuter train, or 15 minutes by bullet train, this makes for an easy daytrip - particularly for Japan Rail Pass holders!

Wading back even further even further in history, Nara is considered to be the ancient capital of Japan - predating even Kyoto. Home to destinations like Todaiji and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, there is no shortage historically and spiritually significant properties in Nara. However, let’s face it - what really cinches it for a lot of visitors are the droves of adorably tame reindeer that roam the park! Nara is located roughly 40 minutes from Osaka by train.

3. Lake Biwa

Accessible via Otsu city, less than one hour from Osaka by train, Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest lake. Visitors can enjoy all the standard freshwater fare such as canoeing, kayaking, and paragliding while admiring the rich history of the surrounding area. The nearby Biwako Valley offers a stunning aerial view of the lake, as well as plenty of other fun outdoor activities such as skiing and zip lining. Those trekking further north along the lake will encounter charming sights such as the castle town of Hikone.

Though Kobe may be famous for its world-renowned beef, rest assured that there is plenty in town that even vegetarians can enjoy. The port city is home to one of Japan’s most celebrated night views, as well as a vibrant waterfront, a tower with a scenic view, and one of Japan’s most-famed Chinatown districts. Kobe is accessible from Osaka in just 20 minutes.

Known mainly for its UNESCO World Heritage-recognized castle (one of just twelve remaining original castles in Japan!) Himeji showcases a stunning harmony of nature and tradition, from Kokoen Gardens to Mount Shosha. Himeji is accessible from Osaka in about 50 minutes by Shinkansen, or 1.5 hours by a local commuter train.

6. Koyasan and the Kumano Kodo

About a two-hour local train ride from Osaka lies Koyasan - a mountain retreat, and one of the largest Buddhist temple complexes in Japan. Here you can enjoy a meditative getaway, studying under the monks and enjoying traditional cuisine as part of a shukubo (temple stay). Traditionally, Koyasan was the end of a long pilgrimage route known as the Kumano Kodo - a lush trail which winds the forests of Wakayama prefecture. Today, the route remains beloved by hikers and trekkers.

7. Ikeda & Northern Osaka

For those favouring a shorter trip, northern Osaka prefecture is home to several sights that can be accessed in less than half an hour from central Osaka city. The area is famed for Taro Okamoto’s “Tower of the Sun”, an endearingly avant-garde sculpture built in commemoration of Expo ’70. Though many flock to here just to bask in the beauty of this quirky figure and the surrounding Expo Park, Ikeda also boasts its own Cup Noodle Museum, as well as easy access to the similarly beautiful Minoh Park.

Green tea lovers rejoice! Famed for producing some of the highest quality of Japanese matcha, Uji is located just over an hour from Osaka using commuter train lines. Beyond all the delicious treats, the picturesque town of Uji also serves as the central backdrop for 11th-century literary masterpiece The Tale of Genji. The tea fields, tea shops, and sacred sites make this town a must-see.

9. Arima Onsen

Located just over an hour from central Osaka, Arima Onsen is one of Japan's top three ancient hot spring resorts – having been mentioned in documents dating all the way back to the 8th-century! To this date, Arima serves as a popular escape for residents of Osaka and Kobe to come soak their stress away, with different varieties of mineral springs which are known for their therapeutic properties. While visiting, you can enjoy a magnificent view of both cities from the nearby Mount Rokko.

10. Takeda Castle Ruins

Located in Hyogo prefecture, about two and a half hours north of Osaka, are the ruins of Takeda Castle. The picturesque setting has often been described as Japan’s equivalent of Machu Picchu, with ruins that appear as if floating amongst clouds when viewed from neighbouring mountains. October and November have been remarked as the best time to visit, for those hoping to admire the ruins as they are surrounded by mist.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Osaka

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1. Private Osaka Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems 100% Personalised

2. Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour(Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori)

3. Street Osaka GoKart Tour with Funny Costume Rental

4. Full Day Excursion: Kyoto and Nara Highlights from Kyoto/Osaka

5. Osaka Departure - 1 Day Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour

6. Walking Tour of Osaka's 5 Must-See Sights, with Ramen for Lunch

7. Sagano Romantic Train & Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Taisha Day Tour

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12. Himeji Private Tour from Osaka: Himeji Castle, Koko-en, Engyo-ji

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Inside Osaka

Your Osaka Travel Guide

Best Day Trips From Osaka

Osaka is the heart of Kansai and it’s a great base for exploring the region. The best daytrips are Kyoto (14 minutes by shinkansen), Nara (30 minutes by express train) Hiroshima (1.5 hours by shinkansen) and Kobe (14 minutes by shinkansen).

Best Day Trips from Osaka Summary

• Kyoto is the capital of traditional Japan. It’s home to the country’s most beautiful neighborhoods, temples, shrines and gardens.
• Nara is a smaller and more manageable version of Kyoto and home to the stunning Daibutsu (Great Buddha).
• Kobe is a small cosmopolitan seaside city less within 30 minutes of Osaka.
• Hiroshima is a monument to the horrors of war and the power of the human spirit.

Osaka Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Osaka: See our guide to the best areas and the best hotels to stay in Osaka .
• Things To Do In Osaka: Check this overview of Osaka activities with links to all the key information.
• Flights To Osaka: Find the cheapest flights to Osaka and flight times from scores of airlines with Skyscanner .
• Osaka Packing List: Don’t forget to take any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Japan .
• Travel Insurance: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Claim online anywhere in the world.

Best Day Trips Details

About 41km/25m northeast of Osaka, Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and it is a must-see destination. The temples, shrines, gardens, traditional neighborhoods and museums are the best in Japan. It would be crazy to come to Japan and not visit Kyoto! While you should try to spend as long as possible in Kyoto, if you have limited time, you can easily visit Kyoto as a day trip from Osaka. This is easy to do, since Kyoto is only 14 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station by shinkansen (good for Japan Rail Pass holders). For more details on transport, see my Osaka-Kyoto Transport Page. For more details on Kyoto, see InsideKyoto.com , my dedicated website about Kyoto, for full details.

• Travel time/cost from Osaka by shinkansen: 14 minutes, Y1420
• Travel time/cost from Osaka by private rail (Hankyu Line from Umeda to Kawaramachi): 43 minutes, Y400
• How to get there: JR or private rail lines
• Best time to go: All year round
• Highlights: Temples, shrines, gardens, traditional neighborhoods, museums, hiking and shops.

About 30km/18m east of Osaka, Nara is a more manageable version of Kyoto. It’s home to some of the most impressive sights in the entire country, including the awesome Daibutsu (Great Buddha), the mysterious Kasuga-Taisha Shrine and the wandering deer of Nara-koen Park. And, the city is less than one hour from Osaka by comfortable train. Thus, you can easily visit Nara as a day trip from Osaka. For more details on Nara, see our full Nara Travel Guide .

• Travel time/cost from Osaka: 50 minutes, Y800
• How to get there: JR Yamatoji Line from JR Osaka Station to JR Nara Station
• Highlights: Daibutsu (Great Buddha) at Todai-ji Temple, Issui-en Garden, Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, Nara-koen Park, Nara National Museum, traditional neighborhoods and shops.

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About 35km/21m west of Osaka, Kobe almost feels like a part of Osaka – the upscale seaside part. It’s actually a very pleasant small city in its own right, with a nice collection of sights, including the pleasant hillside district of Kitano, the bustling Chinatown and the Kobe City Museum. Of course, the appeal of Kobe is not its specific sights, but the experience of wandering the city and soaking up its cosmopolitan atmosphere. If you’ve got a Japan Rail Pass, you can zip from Shin-Osaka to Shin-Kobe in 14 minutes. And, if you don’t, the private Hankyu Line will take you from downtown Osaka (Umeda) to downtown Kobe (Sannomiya) in just 30 minutes.

• Travel time/cost from Osaka by shinkansen: 14 minutes, Y1500
• Travel time/cost from Osaka by private rail (Hankyu Line from Umeda to Sannomiya): 30 minutes, Y320
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Shin-Osaka to Shin-Kobe or Hankyu Line from Umeda Station to Sannomiya
• Highlights: Kitano district, Chinatown, Kobe City Museum, great international food and shopping.

About 285km/177m west of Osaka, Hiroshima is an essential trip for those who want to learn about Japan’s experience of the horrors of war. Less than an hour and a half from Shin-Osaka Station by shinkansen (great for Japan Rail Pass holders), you can definitely visit Hiroshima as a day trip from Osaka. You’ll have enough time to visit the Hiroshima Peace Park and the Peace Memorial Museum, with a lunch near the Peace Park. You canbe back in Osaka in time for dinner. Of course, if you want to slow down, you could visit Hiroshima as an overnight trip from Osaka. If you choose this option, consider spending the night on nearby Miyajima. For more details on Hiroshima and Miyajima, see our full Hiroshima/Miyajima Travel Guide.

• Travel time/cost from Osaka by shinkansen: 1 hour 26 minutes, Y9710
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Shin-Osaka Station
• Highlights: Hiroshima Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum, vibrant modern city, friendly people and Miyajima Island.

Other Great Daytrips from Osaka

In addition to the cities listed here, there are plenty of other great daytrips from Osaka. Some are in Osaka Prefecture itself, others are a bit further afield. Here are our top picks:

• Expo City/Banpaku Park : This museum, shopping and entertainment complex is about half an hour from central Osaka.
• It’s great for people with kids. See our Northern Osaka District Page for full details.
• As well as the Universal Studios Japan theme park in the Osaka Bay Area, there is Legoland Japan and the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park a short train ride away in Nagoya.
• Himeji : Home to Japan’s most famous and beautiful castle, Himeji-jo, Himeji is only 29 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station by shinkansen.
• Ise : Home to Japan’s most sacred shrine (Ise-jingu), the small city of Ise is 1 hour and 44 minutes from Uehonmachi Station in Osaka. It would be a pretty long day, but it can indeed be visited as a daytrip from Osaka if you’re willing to pay for a Limited Express on the Kintetsu Line.

Where Are These Places Located?

• Open the Osaka map
• You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
• Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
• Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
• If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Osaka Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Osaka guide
• Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Osaka
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka , Osaka to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Osaka's Kansai International Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare flight prices and timings to find the best Japan flight deals
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Osaka District Map

• Shin-Osaka Area
• Central Osaka Area
• Minami Area
• Tennoji Area
• Osaka Castle Area
• Osaka Bay Area

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10 Unforgettable Day Trips from Osaka

If you’re based in Osaka, exploring Kansai couldn’t be easier. From historical castles to ninja towns, with islands and whirlpools in between, there are more day trips from Osaka to choose from than you ever thought possible!

If you’re lucky enough to have a good chunk of time based in Japan’s Kitchen , you might be looking for some new places to visit that offer a break from the neon lights of Dotonbori . Aside from the more obvious locations like Kyoto , Hiroshima and Nara , the Kansai region has a whole host of fantastic locations to explore than can easily have you there and back in a day, with the smug feeling that you’ve made the most of your time. You can choose from onsen towns for a relaxing soak, sacred mountain retreats or land yourself on a not-so-deserted island—whatever tickles your fancy! These are our top picks for easy day trips from Osaka, and all as cheapo as possible. The travel costs listed are one way, and keep in mind that while JR trains are covered by the JR Pass , most JR-run buses are not.

Kobe | 25 minutes |  ¥ 410  | Direct train

Often bypassed in favor of Kyoto or Osaka, for those with limited time, Kobe is a fantastic city and perfect for a cheapo day trip.

As one of Japan’s most important port cities, there is a real mix of cultures, with one of the largest Chinatowns in the Kansai region . Dating back to 1868, the area has grown and was named Nankimichi after the city Nanjing. This is a great place to grab lunch, be it street food like steamed buns or the traditional cheapo cut-price lunch set.

The city of Kobe was heavily damaged in the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and over 5,000 people died. Today the city has been rebuilt, but you can visit the dedicated museum to learn more about it.

While it may not quite be in your budget, for dedicated foodies this is of course a great opportunity to try the world-famous Kobe beef, or head to the Nada District for some locally brewed sake.

Sorakuen Garden is perfect for a peaceful stroll and the culture vultures can head to the Hyogo Museum of Art for a mixture of modern works by Japanese and international artists, all housed in the creation of Skytree-designer Ando Tadao.

Locals and visitors will agree, however, that Kobe comes into its own at night, with spectacular night views counted as some of the best in Japan. View the city from the Shin-Kobe Ropeway (which also passes the Nunobiki Waterfall) where you can hike from the top station to Mount Maya, which has 10-million dollar views of Kobe and Osaka.

Getting there

This is one of the easiest routes: simply hop onto either the JR Kobe Line or the JR Rapid Service for Himeji and you’ll be in Kobe within 30 minutes!

Awaji Island | 1 hour | ¥ 1,500  | Train and ferry

This small island is perched between Honshu and Shikoku and is attached to Akashi City by the world’s longest suspension bridge: the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. As a sightseeing spot in itself, with its own exhibition center, the bridge also helps with accessing the island. Although, a ferry is easier if relying on public transport.

Sumoto is the main city and has plenty for a day’s worth of sightseeing, including natural hot springs and Sumoto Castle, which was destroyed in the early 17th century but rebuilt just after the Edo period in 1928. You can also explore the Awaji Yumebutai, which is a mixture of gardens, walking trails and the largest greenhouse in Japan, all built on the excavation sites for the Kansai International Airport .

If you head down south to the town of Fukura, you can catch a ferry to see the (sorta-famous) Naruto whirlpools and Naruto Bridge. You can pair this with a trip to the Awaji Joruri Puppet Theater, which displays the island’s tradition of ningyo joruri puppet theater (note it is closed on Wednesdays).

Take a train from Osaka to Akashi (40 minutes, ¥ 940 ). Then catch a ferry from Akashi Port, which is a few minutes’ walk from JR Akashi Station. It takes 13 minutes to cross and costs adults ¥ 530 each way, plus a ¥ 240 charge if you take your bike or small animals. The ferries are very regular, especially around commuter times but still pretty decent on weekends, continuing until around 11 pm; you can check the timetable here .

Arima Onsen Town  |  60 minutes  |  ¥ 1,250 + | Direct bus

Although technically in Kobe, this picturesque onsen town is on the opposite side of Mount Rokko from the city center, and is well worth a trip . Although Arima has become a bit of a concrete town (the fate of many an onsen town in Japan), you can still enjoy a town-like feel with some narrow shopping streets remaining.

As one of the oldest hot spring resorts in Japan, Arima is a popular spot due to its ‘gold’ and ‘silver’ water—the former offering iron deposits to aid muscle pain and the latter offering carbonate, which is good for joint ailments. There are picturesque onsen sources dotted throughout the town with steam shooting from them, as well as two public bath houses with prices starting from ¥ 550 to ¥ 850 per person. The many hotels and private onsen houses also allow day visitors and are generally fancier, although the costs are also a bit higher reaching into the thousands-of-yen range for improved soaking facilities and better views. There are also plenty of shrines and temples to see in the town and pleasant strolls so you can cool off between soaks.

The train is a little tricky from Osaka: It takes three trains to reach Arima Onsen (changing at Sannomiya and Tanigami) at a cost of ¥ 1,000 for the 70-minute journey.

Alternatively, you can catch one of the direct buses run by JR and Hankyu which cost between ¥ 1,250 and ¥ 1,400 depending on whether you leave from Shin-Osaka or Osaka respectively.

Wakayama City | 50 minutes | ¥ 900 | 1 trian transfer

Wakayama is usually a stop-off for people on the way to hike the Kumano Kodo or view Nachi Falls , but the city deserves a day of exploration in its own right. If you begin in the heart of the city, head to see the castle tower before strolling through Oda Park, which has plenty of temples and shrines to explore during your strolls.

For an early lunch and some unusual entertainment, don’t miss the tuna filleting displays that take place three times a day (11 am, 12:30 pm and 3 pm) at Kuroshio Market. You can try out the freshest of fish at the indoor restaurants or purchase something to take home if the tuna is looking too delicious to leave behind.

The town is famed for onsen, and there are plenty of bathhouses to try dotted around city, mainly based in hotels. If you want to head out of town for the afternoon, you can choose one of the onsen towns a short train ride away. Some of the top options include the baths at the national park in Kada. Just catch the train from Wakayamashi Station to Kada (25 minutes) and hop on a free shuttle bus to enjoy onsen with views to die for.

Alternatively, you could catch a train to Kishi to meet the world-famous train station cat Nitama (replacement of the much-loved Tama the cat who served until 2015). The journey takes 35 minutes from Wakayama Station and has some lovely views on the way.

Catch the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service for Wakayama, change trains at Hineno Station, and continue to Wakayama Station. The journey takes 50 minutes and costs ¥ 900 .

Tokushima City | 150 minutes | ¥ 3,600 | Direct bus

Best known for its amazing Awa-dori Festival in the summer, Tokushima is a busy city on the edge of Shikoku . It’s also home to the first temple of the 88 Sacred Temple complex: Ryozenji Temple. You can visit the temple by catching a train to Bando Station (30 minutes on the Kotoku line). Note that trains only run around once an hour, so keep that in mind for returning.

If you aren’t in town for the impressive Awa-dori Festival, be sure to head to the Awa Odori Kaikan building where you can see daily dance performances, ancient posters, uniforms, and even machines that let you try the footwork yourself. From the 5th floor you can catch the ropeway to Mount Bizan for views across the city and over the Seto Inland Sea.

Back down in the city you can explore the castle grounds, and although not much is left of the castle aside from walls and a moat, there is plenty to see. The Tokushima Castle Museum ( ¥ 300 admission) has some heirlooms, samurai armor, and the only surviving example of a feudal lord’s boat. Right next door is the Omote-Goten Garden, which includes a dry garden as well as pond garden. It is the perfect place for some relaxing reflection. As with the castle park and ruins, the garden is free—and it’s especially popular during cherry-blossom season.

The simplest way to reach Tokushima is on one of the JR buses from either Osaka Station, Osaka Namba or USJ which go directly to Tokushima for ¥ 3,600 each way. The journey takes about 2 hour and 40 minutes and they run roughly every hour from 6 am.

From Tokushima, the buses run every every half hour from 3:15 pm until the last one at 7:45 pm (so don’t miss it!). You can check the times here .

Takeda Castle Ruins | 3 hours | ¥ 2,640  | 3 trains

An unusual and very outdoorsy option for your day trip is a hike into the mystical remains of Takeda Castle . Often wrapped in mist and known as the “castle in the sky”, Takeda is a pretty magical spot, but you have to work for it.

Originally built in 1411, it was abandoned during the battle of Sekigahara in 1600 and eventually fell into disrepair before being opened to tourists after restoration in the 1980s. While there are no buildings remaining, you can see the layout of the fortress and surrounding wings thanks to foundations. If you stay overnight nearby, the best time to view the castle is at sunrise in October or November, as this is when the famous mist appears. If you head to the Ritsuunkyo viewpoint on the slopes of the mountain opposite the castle, there are viewpoints just over half an hour up the trail which lead from the car park.

On a regular day, there are two steep trails from the back of the train station that will take you up to the castle in a pretty intense 40 minutes of trekking. From March to November, you can catch a bus that will take you to a point 20 minutes from the castle, so have a glance at the times when you arrive to see which suits you better! To reach the Ritsuunkyo viewpoint without a car, it is a 45-minute hike from the town or a 10-minute taxi journey.

From Osaka Station, catch the JR Special Rapid Service for Himeji, then jump on the Bantan Line for Teramae where you’ll change to the Bantan Line for Wadayama and get off at Takeda Station.

Iga: Home of the ninja  |  109 minutes  |  ¥ 1,520   |  2 trains

A small town with two big claims to fame, Iga is a fun day trip for those fresh to Japan and old hands too. The most obvious selling factor is of course the ninjas, from sneaky figures perched on train luggage racks to a fully dedicated museum and performing troupe.

The Iga School of Ninjutsu was one of the country’s leading schools in the feudal ages and produced many high-quality warriors. The city has since kept a firm grip on its history. The museum has a selection of tools, weapons and costumes used by ninjas of the past as well as a very entertaining session in a ninja house with demonstrations of revolving walls and trap doors used long ago. At the end you can see the ninja performance, which is an entertaining show of shuriken  (ninja stars) and sword fights with some comedic falls thrown in for good measure.

In town, you can visit a ninja café with resident cats (ninjas would use the dilation of their feline friends’ eyes to tell the time) to sample the black sesame ice cream and even try shuriken yourself.

The second claim to fame is that Iga is the birthplace of famed haiku poet Matsuo Basho—there is a small museum dedicated to him in the grounds of Ueno Castle as well as a hat-shaped memorial called Haseiden Hall, which was built to commemorate the 300th year since his birth.

Catch the Yamatoji Rapid Service from Osaka to Kamo, and then switch to the Kansai Line for Iga Ueno Station. This should take just under 2 hours and provide some pretty stunning views.

Himeji’s famous castle  |  65 minutes  |  ¥ 1,520   |  Direct train

Painfully popular during cherry blossom season and only a little less so during the rest of the year, Himeji Castle is a must-see if you’re in the Kansai area. Considered to be the country’s most impressive castle, it is also called the White Heron Castle and is known for its complex grounds and elegant appearance.

The castle avoided damage during fires, wars and earthquakes and is one of Japan’s 12 original castles, although it underwent significant restoration before re-opening in 2015. There are over 80 buildings spread across the grounds, and the area is free to explore up to the Sannomaru (third bailey).

Entry to the castle will set you back ¥ 1,000 . If you would also like to visit the nearby Kokoen gardens you can get a combination ticket for ¥ 1,040 —so probably best even if you’re not sure you’ll visit both.

The walled paths and twisting routes up to the castle are really unusual and add to the sense of occasion, along with steep staircases as you approach the castle itself. The inside is mainly empty and has some displays and a shrine, but it’s best for the views across the countryside surrounding it.

Again, this is a pretty easy journey as you simply hop on the JR Special Rapid Service for Himeji and settle in for the hour-long journey. This would be covered on the JR Pass if you’re lucky enough to have one, otherwise it will set you back ¥ 1,520 each way.

Mount Koya: Spiritual escape | 2 hours | ¥ 3,400 round trip | Train/bus

Spiritual, stunning and energizing, an afternoon spent exploring Mount Koya is a treat for the soul that you won’t forget any time soon. As the resting place of Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, it is one of the holiest sites in all of Japan and certainly demands a certain level of respect when visited. You can follow the path through the Okunoin Cemetery where he is buried to visit Torodo Hall, which is filled with over 1,000 lanterns. Kongobuji, the main temple of Shingon Buddhism is located a little farther on and is home to beautifully painted doors and Japan’s largest rock garden—well worth the 500-yen entry fee.

As our full article points out, this is not a leisurely day trip—it takes around 2 hours from Osaka. That means you will have to keep up the pace, or consider making it an overnight temple stay if you want to relax a little. That’s not to say it can’t be done in a day though. Just make sure you keep an eye on the time as train service going back stops a little earlier than you may be used to. Double check return times before you leave the station for the day.

This journey is fairly simple. Take a rapid train from Osaka Namba to Gokurakubashi Station with a change at Hashimoto Station. The journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs ¥ 1,410 one way.

You may want to consider purchasing the Koyasan World Heritage ticket, which costs ¥ 3,400 and includes your return train travel as well as unlimited use of buses around Mount Koya and discounts to entry fees for attractions.

Kinosaki Onsen | ¥ 3,700  one way | 3 hours | Direct bus

Kinosaki Onsen town is one of the most magical spots in Japan, with too many hot springs to choose from and a quaint traditional setting. Unlike most onsen towns, which are filled with concrete eyesores as soon as they become popular, this place has a Venetian-vibe with narrow twisting streets and impossibly photogenic bridges. The 3-hour travel time might make this look like more of a weekend getaway option, but it could be done as a day trip if you arrive at 10:47 am and head home on the final bus at 5:40 pm.

The town center has a steady flow of yukata-clad visitors enjoying locals treats and onsen-hopping between the public baths. Ryokan (traditional inns) encourage guests to explore the town rather than stay at the restaurants at their own establishments. They even provide free entry to the public baths as an incentive. There are literary monuments and a ropeway to the mountain summit for panoramic views. The ropeway is close to Onsenji Temple, with a stop-off point at the main hall farther up the mountain. Traditionally, guests would pray at the temple before being admitted to bathe in the town.

The onsen are famed for being the healing place of injured storks, so you can bath in public or ryokan baths to your heart’s content and even visit a stork sanctuary just outside the town. There are a total of seven public baths and countless ryokan—plenty of choice for your soaks!

Traveling by train requires a minimum of three transfers, which may seem a lot of hassle since it only saves you about ¥ 350 compared to the bus option. You can catch a highway bus from Osaka Hankyu-Umeda to Kinosaki Onsen .

This post was originally publishe in March 2018. Last updated: July 29, 2021. Information is subject to change.

• Day trips from osaka

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7 BEST Day Trips from Osaka, Japan (2024 Travel Guide)

• Last Updated: January 27, 2024

While there is plenty to see in the city, there are also many great day trips from Osaka, Japan.

If you are still a little undecided about where to travel in Japan, planning to stay in the city of Osaka, western Japan will be a highlight of your Japanese travels.

Osaka is Japan’s second-largest city and is southwest of Tokyo, in the region known as Kansai.

What you will love about Osaka is easy to access places of interest in the Kansai region. You can use the efficient rail system to enhance your Japanese experience with day trips from Osaka.

Any day trip from Osaka is easy with a Japan Rail Card as trains are fast and reliable, allowing you more time to explore each destination.

But make sure you check which station your train leaves from as Osaka has two train stations: 

• Shin Osaka Station 
• Osaka Station

But don’t expect platform signs to be in English. Instead, use the train numbers to find your train ride.

If unsure of anything, most stations do have English speakers at the information centres.

Osaka is a vibrant city surrounded by places of stunning scenery and culture. 

When planning your day trips from Osaka, you have several choices, especially with the nearby ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto .

And depending on the season, you can experience cherry blossoms in spring, incredible leaf colour in autumn, snow in winter, and humid days in summer.

READ MORE: Check out our ultimate guide to travelling in Japan !

Table of Contents

1) Nara Park

2) himeji castle, 3) hiroshima peace memorial park, nightingale floors of nijo castle, kyoto , toei kyoto studio park, kyoto – kinkaku-ji temple (temple of the golden pavilion), ryoan-ji temple, kyoto – ninna-ji temple, tenryu-ji temple, kyoto, arashiyama bamboo grove, baumkuchen in kobe, arima onsen town, hakutsuru sake brewery museum, kobe , kobe port , wrapping up osaka day trips, best day trips from osaka, japan.

A suggestion of day trips, depending on your time, can combine one or more places to visit.

For example, you could decide to return to Kyoto to explore more on a second-day trip.

Here are some of the best day trips from Osaka.

An hour from Osaka is Nara, Japan’s first capital in 710, which has one of the largest wooden structures in the world, the Buddhist Todai-ji Temple.

It was constructed in 752 but rebuilt after a fire in 1692.

The temple is found in the northern area of the park and is an important place for Japanese to visit the 15-meter bronze Great Buddha (dai-butsu). 

Within Nara Park, there are more temples and shrines to visit. And as you wander the various paths, you will see deer roaming freely.

You are allowed to feed them from food bought at kiosks within the park. 

A highlight not to be missed is the wooden Nandai-mon Gate, where two 8.4-meter statues guard the entrance to the temple.

Nara is a beautiful place that makes one of the easiest day trips from Osaka.

• Getting to Nara Park : 30-minute walk from the Kintetsu Nara Train Station or 45-minutes from the JR Nara Station. Buses are available too.

READ MORE: Check out these other great things to do in Nara !

Another one of the best day trips from Osaka, Himeji Castle is not to be missed. 

A UNESCO World Heritage building , Himeji Castle is often known as the “White Egret” because of the white exterior.

The construction of Himeji Castle started in 1333 and is now one of the most visited castles in Japan.

One of its prominent features is the large moat in the middle of the castle grounds. You’ll want to allow a few hours for your visit to this national treasure of Japan.

• Getting to Himeji : take the Shinkansen (fast train) from Shin-Osaka, arriving in 30-minutes. Then you can either walk up to Himeji Castle or take a taxi for day trips from Osaka.

Another worthwhile day trip from Osaka is to visit the Hiroshima Peace Park, where on the 6th August 1945, Hiroshima was devastated by an atomic bomb dropped by Allies.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum details the horrific day and the subsequent effect on the people of Hiroshima.

The Genbaku Atomic Dome is the only building left standing and is also a UNESCO site.

If you visit on the 6th August, Memorial Day lanterns light the sky. This is one of the most epic day trips from Osaka!

• Getting to Hiroshima : You have two options with your Japan Rail Pass, either the Sanyo Shinkansen Line from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima in 1.5 hours or the Kodama train in 2.5 hours.
• Alternatively, you can book this day tour that has all the main attractions in one affordable and fun package, including Miyajima Island.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these other activities to your Hiroshima day trip.

4) Kyoto – Toei Kyoto Studio Park and Nijo Castle

Known as the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto (Capital-City) was the seat of the Imperial Court from 794 until 1869, until the Meiji Restoration when the Emperor and his Court moved to Tokyo (Eastern-Capital).

A fabulous city for day trips from Osaka, Kyoto is famous for its historic landmarks, beautiful scenery near Lake Biwa, and young ladies known as Geisha or Geiko in the Kyoto dialect.

In the early evening, two popular places to see Geisha is to visit either Hanami-koji-dori or Shijo-dori of Pontocho.

The other option is to ask tourist information stops in Kyoto for the dates of the annual Odori dance performances of Geishas.

Nishiki Market is a must-see on a day trip to the historic city of Kyoto.

Only a 10-minute walk from Kyoto station, here you can indulge in freshly made sushi or tofu mini doughnuts as you wander the various food stalls of interesting food items.

For a uniquely Japanese experience, check out one of the numerous Torikizoku Bars .

Here the staff is enthusiastic, offering a menu where any plate or drink is only 280 Yen before tax. It means you can try lots of dishes, some on the recommendation of staff.

Even a glass of Sake is 280 Yen. These bars were established in Osaka and are now available throughout Kansai and Japan. In Kyoto, you’ll find one near Kyoto Station.

Another thing to do when in Kyoto is to walk the Philosopher’s Path . The 2km canal path was a daily walk by Japan’s famous philosopher Nishida Kitaro to Kyoto university.

It is popular to walk the path during April’s cherry blossom season, although it can be crazy busy. 

Kyoto is definitely recommended for day trips from Osaka, though it would be even better to spend a few days there as there is so much to do.

• Getting to Kyoto Station from Osaka : Special Rapid train takes 30 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station, and Osaka Station or Shinkansen is 15 minutes.

A truly magical experience is to walk along the wooden halls of Nijo Castle. Each step you take makes the sound of a chirping bird as flooring nails rub against a clamp.

Legend says it was one way to alert the household of movement or intruders to the castle. 

The castle and grounds are also impressive, so allow a couple of hours to visit.

And don’t be surprised if young school children want to practice their English. The questions are always the same, with one in the group asking the questions.

• Getting to Nijo Castle : within walking distance from Kyoto Station or you can take the subway to Nijojo-Mae Station.

A great day trip from Osaka is visiting the Toei Kyoto Studio Park. Here you can lose yourself in the Japanese filmmaking from the 1920s to 1960s.

Wandering through the various sets, Ninja warriors or beautiful princesses can be approached for photos.

The studio also has scheduled Ninja performances each day.

And if you feel like taking a more active role, book a transformation for yourself to dress as a Princess or a Warrior.

The change of make-up, hair, and costume can take up to an hour, but then you have one hour to walk around the sets in your period costume.

• Getting to Toei Kyoto Studio Park : from Osaka at least a one-hour train journey from Shin-Osaka to Hanazono (Kyoto) with a 1km walk to the studio.

READ MORE: Be sure to check out these other great activities when you visit Kyoto .

5) Kyoto – Kinkaku-ji Temple (Temple of the Golden Pavilion)   and Ryoan-ji Temple

Kyoto is obviously one of the best day trips from Osaka, there is just so much to see! Another idea is spending the day at Kinkaku-ji Temple and Ryoan-ji Temple.

In 1397 this temple was originally a villa built for a local statesman, but on his death, the villa became a Buddhist temple.

Unfortunately, in 1950 the building was destroyed by fire and was rebuilt in 1955 from original villa paintings. 

What makes the temple a popular place to visit is to see the gold leaf decoration. Seeing it for the first time, surrounded by a tranquil garden and pond, is a calming picturesque vista.  

The temple is a UNESCO world heritage site and visited by locals and Japanese throughout the year.

If you really want to make the most of your day trip, book an epic tour of the pavilion .

• Getting to Kinkaku-ji Temple : take Kyoto City Bus #205 from the bus terminal located on the north side of Kyoto Station.

Many visitors come to Ryoan-ji Temple on a day trip to see its famous rock garden.

This temple was originally a statesman’s villa but became a Zen temple in 1450. The rock garden is unique with its rectangle shape covered in pebbles with small groups of rocks on patches of moss.

Each visitor can interpret their own meaning of the garden.

There are 15 rocks in the garden, but you can only see 14 rocks at any one time. It is said, when one achieves enlightenment, that all 15 rocks become visible.

At the rock garden is the former priest’s residence (Hojo), which shows you the inside layout of a Japanese residence.

You can also wander through other gardens near the temple, visit the pond, bridge, and shrines, which are often common features of a Japanese villa garden. 

For a unique taste experience, the gardens restaurant is where you can try Yudofu (boiled tofu) a specialty dish of Kyoto. 

• Getting to Ryoan-ji Temple (from Kinkaku-ji Temple) : take Kyoto City Bus #59 or a 20-minute walk. (We decided to walk through a residential area to see the houses and gardens of local Japanese.) 
• Getting to Ryoan-ji Temple (from Kyoto Station) : take Bus #26 to Nanna-ji, then Bus #59 to Ryoan-ji Temple

READ MORE: Plan to spend a few extra days in Kyoto with this perfect Kyoto itinerary !

6) Kyoto – Ninna-ji Temple, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Arashiyama

If you really want an easy day trip itinerary from Osaka to follow, check this one out on Klook that goes to Kyoto . Sometimes booking a guided tour is a much easier way to enjoy day trips from Osaka.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Between Ryoan-ji Temple and Arashiyama is the UNESCO Ninnaji temple, previously known as the Omuro Imperial Palace. 

Visitors come to see the Goten, built in the style of an imperial palace.

Inside is the exquisite internal features of painted sliding doors, with covered walkways leading to gardens and ponds.

The five-storied pagoda is one of five buildings within the grounds built in the 1600s Edo Period.  

• Getting to Ninnaji Temple : from Kyoto Station take Bus #26 

One of the best gardens in Kyoto is within the grounds of the Zen temple, Tenryu-ji Temple.

These calming gardens are picturesque featuring rock gardens, ponds, and views of the Arashiyama mountains. 

Tenryu-ji Temple is one of the best UNESCO World Heritage sites for the Rinzai Zen Japanese Buddhism, and it’s a great spot for a day trip.

• Getting to Tenryu-ji Temple : 15 minutes from Kyoto Station to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, then it’s a 15-minute walk to the temple.

When you feel like a day trip in nature, lunch at Arashiyama bamboo grove is ideal. During the Heian period, Arashiyama was surrounded by noble residences who enjoyed their beautiful walks of the bamboo groves.

During the summer months, the height of the bamboo gave respite from the sun.

Today only this portion of the bamboo forest remains, which can reach a height of 30 meters and 15-20 cms wide.

The beauty of the grove can either be walked or admired from hiring a rickshaw.

You can also take a walk along the Togetsukyo Bridge crossing over the Katsura-gawa River.

And if you love monkeys, a walk up the hill (all signposted) will bring you to the Iwatayama (monkey park), where monkeys roam freely. 

But if you would rather see more from the river, boat cruises are available near the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Or you can browse the souvenir shops along the main street as you enjoy a delicious Japanese favorite, green-tea ice cream. 

• Getting to Arashiyama : take the iconic Randem Tram (25 minutes) from Nanna-ji Temple or Kyoto Station take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes) then it’s only a 10-minute walk to Arashiyama.

READ MORE: Check out these great things to do in Kyoto at night !

7) Kobe 

What will surprise you when you visit Kobe , only a short journey from Osaka, is the western influence of the city.

When Japan opened the Port of Kobe in 1868, the city grew with 19th-century architecture. 

But the city also adapted, because space is at a premium in Japan. So Kobe created unique shopping districts under the overhead railway lines.

Here you can wander underneath to browse at a variety of shops, eat street food, or dine at small restaurants. 

Kobe is also a city of taste sensations of Kobe beef, Matcha tea cake, Baumkuchen, and Sake. Another highlight of the city is escaping the neon lights to chill out in the relaxing atmosphere of Arima Onsen Town on a day trip.

• Getting to Kobe : 15 minutes on the Sanyo Shinkansen or 20 minutes on the JR Special Rapid Train. 

Now, this is a dish you must try during your day trip.  

Kobe beef (Wagyu beef) is beef marbled with fat grown from Japanese black cattle.

For a taste sensation, Kobe has several restaurants offering a set menu for Kobe Beef.  

We chose a small restaurant and sat at the bar where we could watch the meal preparation.

Watching the chef thinly slice the beef, cook, and then serve, we were surprised at the flavour from such a small piece of meat.

For a real tasty adventure on your day trip, book yourself into this Kobe beef experience .

Any day trips from Osaka to Kobe need to allow time for afternoon tea. 

The strong influence of patisserie in the 19th century has influenced the bakery or teahouse in Kobe.

While the cakes do look like what you can find in Europe, you need to try the Matcha cake (green tea cake).

It’s delicious and is a local twist on Baumkuchen, which is also a specialty of Kobe’s patisserie scene.

Arima Onsen Town, nestled in the picturesque mountains of Kobe, Japan, is a serene and historic hot spring resort renowned for its therapeutic waters and tranquil ambiance.

Steeped in tradition, Arima Onsen has been a destination for rejuvenation for centuries, attracting visitors with its two distinct types of mineral-rich hot springs—gold and silver.

Beyond the soothing baths, Arima Onsen offers scenic hiking trails and the iconic Arima Toy Museum, making it an amazing day trip for those seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, and natural beauty in the heart of Hyogo Prefecture.

Kobe is famous for its production of Sake, and to learn more about the rice wine process, spend a few hours at the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum.  

The museum is free to enter and has detailed exhibits displayed on two floors within an old brewery.

All the information is in English, including short videos of the various processes. And when your self-tour finishes, sake tasting is available at the shop.

• Getting to Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum : from Shin-Kobe station takes 15 minutes by train from Kasuganomichi(Hanshin) to Sumiyoshi(Hanshin).

The perfect finish to your day trip in the bustling city of Kobe is to visit the waterfront Meriken Park of Kobe port.

It is a modern park, repaired after the 1995 Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake, which killed 5,000 people.

Overlooking the park is modern architecture, the most impressive are the Kobe Port Tower and the Kobe Maritime Museum.

The Kobe Port Tower offers 360-degree views of Kobe and the Rokko mountain range. You can’t miss the 108-meter red tower with a rotating cafe. 

The Kobe Maritime Museum takes you on a journey to explain the history of the port and its connection to the western world.

The museum also showcases the corporate museum of Kawasaki products, including the Shinkansen trains. 

The impressive Nakatottei Chou terminal offers one to two-hour sightseeing boat tours around Kobe Bay.

The cruise takes you near Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge at 4 kilometres.

If you are still at Kobe Port in the evening, take a walk along Gaslight Street where old fashioned gas lamps light the area.

And for restaurants, head to Renga Soko , where 19th-century brick warehouses are fashionable restaurants.

When it’s time to plan your day trips from Osaka, the Kansai region provides a different Japanese experience.

Here you can wander through ancient gardens, admire spectacular temples, and visit century-old feudal castles. 

Travelling on a day trip is easy when using a Japan Rail Card, which must be pre-purchased before you arrive in Japan .

And when you need to reduce your travel times, book a seat on the famous Shinkansen bullet train.

There are many beautiful Japanese dishes to try, apart from sushi, so indulge yourself for a taste sensation.

Many restaurants have displays of their menu, making it easy to find a dish to suit your budget and taste.

Finally, allow plenty of time to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the Kansai region.

Osaka is the perfect base to stay and see more with day trips from Osaka.

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9 Top-Rated Day Trips from Osaka

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Meagan Drillinger Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Thanks to its extremely advanced public transport networks, Japan is a paradise for day-trippers. In Japan, a two-hour high-speed rail journey covers the same ground that in North America would take up to double that time.

And the attraction-rich city of Osaka is no exception. One of the country's largest cities, Osaka is one of the best places to visit on the south coast of western Honshu for those seeking an excellent jumping-off point to destinations near and far.

A popular day trip itinerary will include a visit to Kyoto , famous for its numerous temples and palaces, as well as the majestic Nijo Castle . Other big cities within an easy commute by train are historic Nagoya , two hours east of Osaka, and Hiroshima , 2.5 hours by rail to the west (or four hours by road).

And for those seeking quieter, more rural locations, Osaka doesn't disappoint either. It's also close to popular countryside attractions such as Meiji-mura Village , an excellent open-air museum highlighting a historically important period in Japanese culture, and Mount Koya , a must-visit religious center in the hills south of the city.

Like so many of the world's top travel destinations, many of the attractions and top things to do in and around Osaka are busy during the warmer months. If traveling in the quieter shoulder seasons such as fall or winter is a possibility — the countryside looks amazing with a fresh December snowfall — you won't be disappointed.

Plan your sightseeing adventures with our list of the best day trips from Osaka.

1. Temples and Palaces of Kyoto

2. nara's big buddha, 3. historic himeji castle, 4. historic hiroshima and miyajima shrine island, 5. kurashiki's bikan historical quarter, 6. mount koya, 7. kobe port tower, 8. meiji-mura village museum, map of day trips from osaka, best time to visit osaka.

Highlights : Fine art galleries, museums, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historic streets, and the 14th-century Golden Pavilion

Less than an hour by high-speed rail from Osaka's downtown core, Kyoto boasts enough temples and historic sites to keep you busy until the last train back to your hotel. One of only a handful of major Japanese cities to escape devastation during WWII, Kyoto attracts upwards of 10 million visitors each year. Most of them are here to explore the city's magnificent historic streetscapes, much of which were laid out more than a thousand years ago.

In addition to its numerous fine art galleries and museums, Kyoto also has one of the country's highest densities of temples. One of the most famous is Kiyomizu Temple . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perched high up on the Otowa Mountain overlooking the city, and is accessed by quaint Teapot Lane.

On the way up (or down), be sure to linger at the wonderful small shops and craft stalls along the way to pick up some quality traditional souvenirs. Highlights include the spectacular Main Hall, founded in AD 790 and now used as a stage for temple dances and ceremonies and where you'll find some of the best views over the surrounding area.

Other Kyoto attractions of note include the beautiful 14th-century Golden Pavilion , with its exquisite gold leaf exterior; the 17th-century Nijo Castle; and the even older Imperial Palace, built in AD 794.

A great way to experience some of these top things to do is on the Day Trip by Bus to Kyoto and Nara . This full-day guided tour also visits the Kyoto Imperial Palace , as well as Kinkaku-ji Temple, and includes a traditional Japanese lunch. It also includes the Arashiyama district, a round-trip bus fare, and an English-speaking tour guide.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Places to Stay in Kyoto

Highlights : Sections of the city that have been completely undisturbed by time, as well as Seven Great Temples dating back centuries

Just 40 minutes east of Osaka — and on the way to Kyoto — the beautiful old city of Nara has long been at the center of Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Unspoiled thanks to its being spared the devastations of WWII, this easy-to-explore city boasts numerous fine examples of traditional Japanese architecture, seen everywhere from its many important historic temples and palaces to the humble homes and workshops dedicated to centuries-old crafts and trades.

One of the highlights of a visit to Nara is exploring its old districts on foot. Many of the quaint streets you'll find here lead to such iconic structures as the magnificent Kofuku-ji Temple . Built in the 7th century, the temple is famous for its tame deer.

Probably the most visited of the Seven Great Temples of Nara, however, is the majestic Todaiji or Great East Temple. Built in the 8th century, this stunning temple is famous for its large bronze statue of the Great Buddha, Daibutsu, cast nearly 1,300 years ago. Other features of note here include the two-story Great South Gate, supported by 18 columns and guarded by two eight-meter-tall statues.

A convenient way to see the highlights of Nara is on the Day Trip by Bus to Kyoto and Nara , which also takes you to the best sights in Kyoto.

Highlights : A city with Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts a five-story main keep with spectacular city views

A little more than an hour west of Osaka, along the pleasant coastline of the Harima-nada Sea, is the historic city of Himeji. Here, you can easily spend the best part of a day exploring the magnificent Himeji Castle. This stunning structure is the largest fortification in Japan and one of the country's first historic sites to be granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

Built in the 14th century and often referred to as Shirasagi Castle, or "White Heron Castle" - a nickname given by locals for its white exterior walls, which they claim resemble the outspread wings of a white heron - the attraction consists of some 80 buildings, most of them open to the public.

The highlight, however, is the castle's tallest point, the five-story-tall main keep (be sure to make the interior climb all the way to the top for the amazing views over the city and surrounding countryside). When you're done exploring, spend at least a little time shopping for souvenirs in the many interesting shops at the bottom of the narrow, meandering paths heading up to the castle.

Expect to do plenty of walking here, so carry water and wear comfortable shoes. Also, to save time with admissions and tickets consider the services of a professional tour company with guides.

Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012

Highlights : The site of the world's first nuclear attack is now a bastion of peace, hope, and remembrance with museums, parks, and memorials.

Just under three hours west of Osaka by high-speed train - long enough to enjoy one of Japan's greatest inventions, the always-fresh Bento quick meal - is historic Hiroshima. This bustling city has numerous sites dedicated to that fateful day in August 1945, when it was devastated by the world's first nuclear attack. These include attractions such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park , which is home to the Peace Memorial Museum, the famous Memorial Cenotaph with its Flame of Peace, and the Atom Bomb Dome.

One of the must-see attractions is Hiroshima Castle. Built in 1593, it's home to an excellent museum dealing with the region's rich history. Of the city's many temples, the best known and most popular is the Itsukushima Shrine , located a pleasant ferry trip across Hiroshima Bay on Miyajima, also known as Shrine Island. Be prepared to spend the best part of a day here exploring the temple's many buildings, the majority built over water and connected by bridges.

A great way to explore the best this city has to offer travelers — especially for those limited on time and who want to see as much as possible as easily as possible — is to look into a formalized tour. The Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour from Osaka covers the top points of interest in both locations, handling all admissions and travel details. ( Hot Tip : Try to time your visit to coincide with one of the temple's many festivals or traditional dance events.)

Highlights : A step back in time with some of Japan's best-preserved historic buildings, plus modern museums and restaurants

Located a two-hour rail ride west of Osaka, the city of Kurashiki makes a great stopover for those on a full-day trip (or overnight stay) to Hiroshima. Head straight from the train station to the Bikan Historical Quarter . Here you'll be rewarded with a chance to explore and enjoy some of the best-preserved historic buildings in the country, many now serving as boutique shops selling art and crafts, or restaurants offering delicious traditional meals (yeah, sushi!).

If time permits, jump on one of the many small people-powered boats that ferry tourists around the pretty canals crisscrossing the old town. Also worth a visit is the excellent Ohara Museum of Art . Featuring artworks from some of the most revered European painters, such as Monet and El Greco, it's a very pleasant, quiet way to pass an hour or two.

Other notable attractions include the Archaeological Museum , with its displays of cultural artifacts, and the delightful Japan Rural Toy Museum with its unique collection of children's playthings from the 1600s to modern times. Wondering when to visit Kurashiki? Autumn is a particularly beautiful time of year to visit due to the splendid fall colors - and smaller crowds.

Address: Honmachi, Kurashiki, Okayama 710-0054

Highlights : One of the most sacred sites in Japan, home to the first Shingon temple in the country

A two-hour drive south of Osaka (and one of those rare occasions when a car will get you there faster than public transit) is Mount Koya, also known as Kōyasan. It's a windy route, but one that provides an excellent opportunity to see some of this region's magnificent hill country up close.

Once in Mount Koya, you'll be rewarded with an opportunity to explore one of the most important religious sites in Japan, and certainly one of the most extensive. Much of the area is in fact dedicated to a branch of Buddhism known as Shingon, founded in Japan around AD 800, when its founder, Kobo Daishi, built the first small temple here.

Today, a substantial town has been built up around this historic site. Much of it caters to the many pilgrims who travel from across the country to pay homage at the temples and the gravesites of the monks buried here, an often colorful display due to the many bright red scarves left as tokens of respect.

Expect to spend the best part of a day exploring this picturesque community, with its more than 100 temples and shrines, including the most visited, Kongobuji . With advance planning, visitors can book a night's stay in the temple lodgings, a unique experience that is highly recommended for adult travelers (be sure to check availability and book in advance).

Highlight: Japan's sixth largest city boasts the impressive 108-meter Kobe Port Tower.

An easy 30-minute commute west of Osaka is the major port city of Kobe, the sixth largest city in Japan and a fun place to visit.

The best place to start your Kobe adventure is in the city center, then enjoy the short stroll from the station through the shopping and business district to the port. Here, you'll find the architecturally appealing Kobe Port Tower . This must-visit tourist attraction stands 108 meters tall and is notable for its red steel construction. It opened in 1963 and, as its name suggests, overlooks Kobe's bustling port area.

Kobe Port Tower also has an observation deck with superb views over Osaka and Kobe Port and, like its sister tower, is lit up at night. For a special treat, enjoy a meal in the tower's revolving dining room, consistently ranked as one of the top restaurants in Osaka.

Address: 5-5 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042

Highlights : Historically preserved buildings that date back to Japan's Meiji village create a rare opportunity to step back in time.

About 2.5 hours east of Osaka (and just 24 kilometers north of Nagoya, making it possible to combine these two excellent attractions into a single trip) is Meiji-mura Village Museum . This rewarding day trip is especially good for those wanting to learn more about Japan's rich culture and history.

Located in the town of Inuyama, Meiji-mura is almost as much a theme park as it is an open-air museum and offers many fun and educational experiences. Highlights include its numerous well-preserved buildings dating back to Japan's prosperous Meiji period from 1868 to 1912.

The village comprises some 60 or more buildings relocated here from across the country, and a stroll through its streets can take a few hours, so be prepared to take your time. Highlights include a visit to an original post office, a former palace, a bathhouse, and even a prison.

Of particular interest to many visitors is the influence Western architecture had upon the design of so many buildings from this period, most noticeably in the old Imperial Hotel designed by famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. A highlight for kids is a chance to ride on preserved trains, buses, and even a streetcar from this important period of Japanese history.

Speaking of kids, if time allows, head over to the nearby Little World Museum of Man . This fun theme park allows kids to explore cultures from around the globe, and perhaps best of all, dress up in a variety of traditional outfits from around the world.

Address: Inuyama, Aichi Prefecture 484-0000

Highlights : Japan's busiest port, home to a castle, gardens, and many preserved temples

A two-hour journey by rail northeast of Osaka is the busy port city of Nagoya. Owing to its access to the Pacific Ocean, Nagoya is the busiest port in Japan and is known across the country for its many traditional industries, in particular those focused on ceramics and textiles, which have been around for more than 900 years.

A variety of tours are available to these factories and workshops, each of which offers a unique view into both past and present manufacturing methods.

Other points of interest in Nagoya include the city's lovely 6th-century castle, as popular for its huge main tower as it is for its expansive gardens. It's also a city of many well-preserved temples, one of the nicest of which is the Atsuta Shrine .

Tracing its roots as far back as the 1st century, this splendid Shinto temple has long held an important place in the country's culture due to its connection to Japanese royalty. Ask your tour guide to point out the royal insignia found here, one of only three locations in the country where this emblem has survived.

Be sure to also allow time to get in a little shopping here, and afterwards grab a bite to eat in one of the many steakhouses or sushi bars.

With a mild climate year-round, you'll find that it's great to visit Osaka any time of year. But the best times to visit Osaka are certainly in the months of March, April, May, October, and November .

March, April, and May are springtime in Osaka. Halfway through March and into April, the city comes alive with plum and cherry blossoms. High temperatures in Osaka in March are an average of 14 degrees Celsius. In April, the average high in Osaka is 20 degrees Celsius. Early April is prime cherry blossom season, so expect a large number of crowds. May is absolutely perfect weather in Osaka at 25 degrees Celsius. Most of the crowds have left by May, as well.

October and November in Osaka are peak leaf-peeping seasons. The weather in October is an average high of 23 degrees Celsius, with sunny and warm days. By November, the leaves will be at their most colorful, and temperatures drop to an average high of 18 degrees. Mid- to late-November is when you'll see the leaves at their best, but remember that this will also bring significant crowds.

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10 Best day trips from Osaka

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Staying in Osaka for a few nights and looking for some extra day trips to add to your itinerary? We’ve got the best ones below!

One of the best things about visiting Japan is the way many cities are grouped together into regions. Especially in the Kansai region, you can have one base (where you’ll stay the night) and visit many different nearby places. Osaka is often chosen as a traveller’s base when visiting this region in Japan.

While Osaka city is lively, bustling and full of amazing things to do and see, it’s also a great option to stay in while exploring the greater Kansai area. Geographically located near the middle of the region, Osaka is perfect as both a city to explore and for day trips to the many unique and interesting places nearby.

Below, we’ll share some of the best day trips from Osaka.

10. Wakayama (1 hour)

Best osaka day trips.

Here are the best day trips to take from Osaka:

1. Nara Park (40–50 minutes)

Nara is one of the most popular day trips from Osaka, for both domestic and international travellers.

The traditional city is easily accessible from Osaka through various train lines. The Kintetsu Nara Line takes around 40 minutes from Osaka Namba Station while the JR Yamatoji Line has both express and local lines going directly from Osaka Station to Nara within as little as 50 minutes (and covered by the JR Pass ).

Within a few minutes of arrival at Nara, it’s easy to see the most famous attribute – deer! While Nara is also well-known as the first permanent capital of Japan and the centre of power throughout much of the 8 th century, the most popular sightseeing spot is Nara Park and its deer.

Nara Park is a large sprawling park located a short 5-minute walk from Nara Station. Wild deer live throughout the city but are mostly centred around the park. While the wild deer come and go as they please, they are accustomed to humans being around. You can even feed them with ‘deer senbei’ (senbei are a type of wafer biscuit) that are sold around the park.

However, deer aren’t the only attraction around Nara Park. There are a number of shrines and temples throughout Nara. Todai-ji is one of them, housing a 15-meter-high Buddha statue and two 8m guardian statues.

Kofuku-ji temple is another of the eight historical monuments of Nara and is unique for its octagonal halls and 5-storied pagoda. The shape of the halls stands out among the many similarly-shaped temple halls in Japan and the pagoda is the second-tallest pagoda in all of Japan at 50 meters tall.

As you wander through the park, you may also come across the Nara National Museum with its many national treasures, Kasuga Taisha Shrine with over 2,000 stone lanterns linings its paths and the relaxing Kagami-ike Pond. Nara Park, the deer and the surrounding temples, shrines and cultural buildings are more than enough to fill a unique and interesting day trip from Osaka.

We have a full guide on taking a day trip to Nara with a walking route and itinerary!

2. Mt. Ikoma (1 hour)

Many Osaka day trips to Nara are limited to Nara Park and the surrounding areas, but Nara is so much more than this area. The city is filled with historical sites and the further out from the city, the more there is to see.

One of the more interesting and varied day trips you can make into Nara is Mt. Ikoma . Mt. Ikoma is located on the edge of Osaka and Nara prefecture. The summit of Mt. Ikoma can be reached in about one hour from Osaka Namba Station via the Kintetsu Nara line and Mt Ikoma Cable Car. This makes Mt Ikoma one of the more accessible mountain options with the possibility to go all the way to the summit without extensive walking.

For those who are interested in hiking in Japan, you can take one of the many hiking trails either both up or down the mountain. As there are two cable cars, it’s also possible to hike part of the way and take the cable car for the other half.

Mt. Ikoma is also home to Hozan-ji temple, an ancient temple first built in 665 AD. It gained popularity during the Edo period and Japan’s first cable car was introduced here. There are many beautiful mountain paths surrounding the temple, a number of which have smaller, more remote shrines that you can visit.

Historic streets flow from the temple to the nearby village and create an atmosphere of traditional Japan. These traditional shopping streets are a great way to experience Edo Japan.

However, if you’re looking for something more modern, Mt. Ikoma is also home to an amusement park – Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park . This can be a great finish to a long day out, a fun way to entertain children while travelling or just an interesting stop along the way. Mt. Ikoma is a unique and accessible mountain day trip, ideal for those looking for something a bit different in Nara. 

3. Hasedera Temple (1 hour)

On the outer edges of Nara’s main city areas and almost right in the middle of Nara prefecture sits the historic temple, Hasedera. The closest station to this temple can be reached within around one hour from Osaka Namba Station via the Kintetsu lines. There is then a 20 minute walk from the station to the temple.

Hasedera is known as one of the most beautiful temples in this area and is nicknamed “the temple of flowers”. Located on a mountainside, the roads leading up to the temple maintain a historic and traditional atmosphere, with many shops selling traditional sweets, foods and souvenirs. The stairs are lined with traditional stone lanterns and flowers.

The temple has a beautiful main hall, a storied pagoda and a wooden stage, similar to Kyoto’s Kiyomizudera. However, while Kiyomizudera is commonly full of tourists, Hasedera is much less well-known and much less crowded. The temple also s home to an eleven-faced Buddha statue.

However, all this leads up to the true attraction of the temple – nature. The temple is beautiful in all seasons due to the surrounding nature bursting forth in a way not commonly seen. Rather than landscaped gardens, the flowers and trees are more ‘natural’ in the way they appear.

The temple features bright red foliage in autumn, blooming peonies in spring, cherry blossoms during the short period that they bloom and hydrangeas in summer. These are the main flowers that are featured, but so many more appear at various times throughout the year. Hasedera is a must-see for any lover of flowers and nature, especially with the beautiful temple backdrop.

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4. Arashiyama and West Kyoto (1 hour)

Now, to move away from Nara and into another of the most popular day trip locations. Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist locations in Japan, regularly topping the tourism charts for both domestic and international travel.

This is for good reason – Kyoto served as the capital of Japan for a long time and is home to some of its most spectacular temples, shrines, castles and more. With over 10,000 temples and shrines and 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto, it’s impossible to see all or even just the top sites within a day.

Instead, you can visit Kyoto for a couple of days , or split it into areas. Here, we will cover a number of sites within the west area. We start at Arashiyama, which can be reached in about an hour from Osaka Station.

Arashiyama is the famous bamboo forest commonly seen in photos, videos, tourism promotion and more for Japan. The tall bamboo with sunlight filtering through the stems to the winding path below creates beautiful scenery and an amazing walk. Walking through the Arashiyama bamboo forest can take you to a number of other top sites in Kyoto.

Along the path, you can find Tenryuji temple . This is often considered the most important temple in this area of Kyoto and is one of the five great Zen temples of Kyoto. The garden of Tenryuji was designed by the famous garden designer Muso Soseki according to the Zen principles of the time.

The landscape garden is ideal for strolling around and provides a relaxing atmosphere. When visiting Tenryuji, you can buy a ticket for just the garden and skip the main temple buildings if you are short on time.

At the top of the Arashiyama mountain, you can find Iwatayama Monkey Park . This park has over 120 native Japanese monkeys who live wild in the area. The monkeys can be fed by humans, but are still able to move freely in and out of the park. The Iwatayama Monkey Park also features amazing views over Kyoto city.

If you’re looking for a quieter version of the Arashiyama bamboo forest, Adashi Nenbutsuji Temple is the answer. By going in a different direction from the station you can reach a quieter area of Arashiyama and Adashi Nenbutusji Temple, which usually doesn’t have a crowd.

At the back of the temple is a smaller bamboo forest that is very reminiscent of the crowded Arashiyama bamboo forest. This forest may be better for photos and for taking in the serenity of bamboo surroundings.

5. Kinkakuji and East Kyoto (1–1.5 hours)

Now we head to the east area of Kyoto. This area of Kyoto can be reached within 1 – 1.5 hours from Osaka station. Various train lines go between these areas, making it easy to navigate. However, a lot of transport in Kyoto is done by bus which can be difficult. Luckily, Google maps is reliable when checking bus times and routes (an essential Japan travel app !).

The first place in east Kyoto is technically in north Kyoto and can be skipped if you want to contain the day to only east Kyoto, but Kinkaku-ji , the Golden Pavilion, is often considered the symbol of Kyoto. Kinkaku-ji is a beautiful golden Zen temple which stands largely alone in north Kyoto.

The scenery surrounding the temple is also beautiful and is commonly seen on postcards. One of its main features is its ability to create picture-perfect views year-round. Interestingly, Kinkaku-ji has a ‘sister temple’, Ginkaku-ji , The Silver Pavilion, which is located in east Kyoto.

Ginkaku-ji is similar in its foundation but is much more subtle in appearance. It isn’t covered in silver and is said to be named after the silver moonlight shining on the Zen sand garden in its grounds. This temple is very committed to Zen principles with the sand garden, moss garden and simple wooden structures.

Near Ginkaku-ji is the Philosopher’s Path , a beautiful path lining the river which was once the actual path regularly walked by philosphers. This area is ideal to visit in spring as the path is lined by cherry blossoms.

Next on the list is Heian Shrine, which is located near Philosopher’s Parh. While this shrine is relatively new compared to other shrines and temples on this list, it’s still very impressive. The giant torii gate towers over the city and the shrine is built to resemble the Imperial Palace of the Heian period.

The surrounding grounds have beautifully designed gardens with weeping cherry blossoms and other seasonal flowers. This area of Kyoto is very scenic to wander through and is ideal for a day trip from Osaka. 

6. Kobe (30 minutes)

Kobe is perhaps most famous for the beef produced in the region but there is so much more to this interesting city. Located in the prefecture of Hyogo, Kobe is easily accessible in just 30 minutes via multiple train lines.

Kobe is a port city and was one of the first cities to open to foreign ships, leading to a wide variety of influences in the architecture, food and culture of the city. One of the most direct examples of this is Nankinmichi, one of the three biggest Chinatowns in Japan.

This is a great way to try some great Chinese cuisine and wander through the shops of Chinatown. It is wonderful to visit during Lunar New Year celebrations or various other celebrations of Chinese culture.

While in the area, visitors can explore Kobe Harborland, an entertainment and shopping area on the port of Kobe, as well as Meriken Park, one of the most popular areas of Kobe. This area is also home to Kobe Port Tower, a 108m-tall observation tower. This tower provides amazing views over both Kobe port and the city.

While in Kobe, you can’t not try the famous Kobe beef. The locally-grown cows provide beef of the highest standard with very strict regulations that have to be met. There are a number of restaurants that serve Kobe beef-centric meals and create ideal experiences for trying this high-quality beef. The Kobe waterfront area is great for a relaxing day of wandering through scenic areas and enjoying the views, culture and exquisite cuisine.

Check out our one day Kobe itinerary for a walking route and more information on what to see on this day trip from Osaka.

7. Arima Onsen (1 hour)

Arima is a quaint, scenic onsen town tucked away in Hyogo prefecture. From Osaka, you can take a bus that goes directly to the town and take about one hour.

While staying in Japan, many people will recommend overnight or weekend trips to onsen towns. And this can be great, but sometimes it can be hard to fit into your Japan itinerary . A great middle ground is taking day trips to onsen towns.

These charming towns are often filled with traditional buildings, ryokans, restaurants and other food shops and more. Arima is known as one of the oldest hot springs in Japan and is regularly considered one of the onsen towns in Western Japan, making it ideal for your hot spring day trip.

The onsen is most famous for its Gold and Silver waters. The Gold water, also known is Kinsen , is high in iron and is therefore a brown colour. The Silver water, or Ginsen , has radium and carbonate in it, and while it is still clear, it is considered as beneficial to health and important as the Gold water.

There are two main public bathhouses where you can experience these different hot spring waters known as Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu (literally translated as Gold Onsen Water and Silver Onsen Water), but many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) also offer day passes, and this is a great way to get access to some of the more luxury hot spring baths.

While visiting Arima Onsen, there is also a historical shrine in town, a number of small museums and a large waterfall park to visit.

8. Omi-maiko (1 hour)

Omi-maiko is a beautiful beach area located along the banks of Lake Biwa in Shiga prefecture. Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan (at around 670 square kilometres). There are many amazing small towns and cities surrounding the lake but Omi-maiko is commonly considered the most beautiful beach option.

Omi-maiko is located around 1 hour from Osaka by train. The town is very popular during summer, especially with its 4km stretch of white sand beach. The beach is ideal for strolling, swimming, windsurfing or simply relaxing.

While the beach can be crowded, the further you walk, the fewer people are around. The beach also has groves of green pines attached to it, creating a beautiful natural atmosphere. There are a number of BBQ tables available too. Using these can be ideal for a relaxed day trip lunch.

While Omi-maiko is best visited during the warmer months, it’s also possible to visit for a quiet beach stroll during winter. There will be very few people during this time, making for a serene walk along the beach. Omi-maiko is a great option for a unique day trip from Osaka, especially after the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

9. Omi-hachiman (1.5 hours)

If you enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Shiga and Lake Biwa, Omi-hachiman on the other side of Lake Biwa makes for another great day trip from Osaka. This charming, historical town is located on the opposite side of Lake Biwa to Omi-maiko and takes about an hour and a half to reach from Osaka Station.

The town has a long and unique history as a merchant town. This can be noted by the large canal running through the centre of the town which would have once been used by merchant boats. Nowadays, visitors can take boat tours along the canal to see the town from another perspective.

There are also many niche museums and historical sites throughout the town, such as the Kawara Museum , which focuses on Japanese roof tiles, and the Nishikawa Residence, a historically preserved merchant’s house.

In addition to the picturesque town, Omi-hachiman is also home to Mt. Hachiman , located next to the main town area. The summit of the mountain can be easily accessed by ropeway. There are a number of walking trails on Mt. Hachiman, including short routes around the summit which stop at a number of the top viewpoints.

Mt. Hachiman was also once home to Hachiman Castle. Nowadays, Zuiryuji Temple stands on the grounds of the previous castle. Himure Hachiman Shrine, the origin of the name for the area, also stands at the bottom of the mountain.

There are many scenic outlooks around the summit of the mountain which are ideal for taking in the scenery over Lake Biwa, the town of Omi-hachiman and the surrounding areas. Omi-hachiman is a great option for exploring a lesser-known side of Japanese history in a beautiful yet relaxed setting. 

The prefecture of Wakayama is perhaps most well-known for its beautiful seaside towns, especially the white sand beaches of Shirahama. However, while many of these towns are too far to really access for a day trip, the city of Wakayama is easily accessible. It takes a little over an hour from Osaka Station.

In the centre of the city is Wakayama Castle , a beautiful historic castle with its original moat and stonework intact. Wakayama is also home to the Museum of Modern Art which features a wide variety of both Japanese and European Art.

Wakayama has a number of unique places to visit, such as Porto Europa, a theme park intended to resemble Mediterranean harbour towns. Throughout the theme park, there are full-scale reproductions of European streets, street performances and attractions for both children and adults.

This is located close to Kuroshio Market, one of the freshest fish markets in the country. This is the ideal place for any seafood lover to get some of the best seafood available. For those more interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects, you can also watch a tuna preparation show.

If you have some extra time and want to explore something a bit different, about 40 minutes from Wakayama City is the town of Yuasa , also known as the home of soy sauce. This beautiful historic town is the birthplace of soy sauce and now offers tours of the soy sauce manufacturers in the city.

Soy sauce directly from the town it originated in makes for a great souvenir for either yourself or friends and family. Wakayama is a great day trip option for a wide variety of different travellers due to its range of unique places to see and things to do.

Where to stay in Osaka?

When staying in the Kansai region, most travellers choose to stay in Osaka or Kyoto . While both are great cities to stay in, Osaka has much better nightlife and is also often cheaper when it comes to accommodation. If you do decide to stay in Osaka, here is a breakdown of our favourite hotels:

Check out our full guide to the best hotels in Osaka for more recommendations for different budgets and travel styles.

Staying in one city and taking multiple day trips is one of the best ways to see a wide variety of places while travelling in Japan. Skipping the constant check-in and check-outs, dragging luggage on public transport and constant careful organisation in favour of more relaxed, flexible, lightweight travel is a perfect solution to the stress and exhaustion that comes with constantly changing cities.

In Kansai, Osaka serves the purpose well with both its geographical and cultural position. From Osaka, you can make unique day trips to a number of surrounding prefectures, including the ones we’ve mentioned above.

And, of course, we’ve also got a one day Osaka itinerary to help you explore the best parts of the city before heading off on your day trips!

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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9 Best Day Trips from Osaka, Japan

There are many fantastic day trips from Osaka , Japan to consider for your next visit! The bustling city of Osaka in the Kansai Region is great, and three days here is plenty, but add a day or two to fit in some of the great day trips we listed below for an elevated Japan vacation.

The sheer amount of choice and the affordability of staying in Osaka make it a brilliant base for exploring more of what Western Japan offers. Moreover, the world-famous bullet trains of Japan make it very easy and convenient to travel long distances in Japan for less travel time and more time to explore!

From bowing deer, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, iconic historic landmarks, and mountains aplenty, you can get the most diverse experience from the many day trips available from Osaka. I loved the hustle and bustle of the city, but it was such a treat to get on a train and venture off to different sides of Japan for a wholly enriching experience.

I’ve listed just a few options of some of the best day trips from Osaka, but, of course, there will be plenty more depending on your trip expectations and interests!

Table of Contents

1. Amanohashidate

For my birthday, I headed over to the seaside spot of Amanohashidate for a full-day trip! It’s actually part of the Kyoto prefecture, so it makes a great day trip from Kyoto as well as Osaka!

Getting there:

To get to Amanohashidate from Osaka for a memorable day trip involves taking two trains. First, you get the train from Umeda station, in Osaka, to Fukuchiyama. This takes one and a half hours. Then, from Fukuchiyama, you transfer to a different train to Amanohashidate; this will take 40 minutes. Two things to note here:

• If using the JR pass, this will only get you as far as Fukuchiyama. For Fukuchiyama, you will need to buy a separate day pass ticket.
• I had to wait at Fukuchiyama for one hour before I could make my way to Amanohashidate – consider timetables on your intended day of travel and factor in potential waiting time.

What is there to do in Amanohashidate?

Amanohashidate itself is quite a treat. The train station has a visitor’s information center with all the information you’ll need on what you might want to do during your visit. I opted for a combined ticket, which gave me unlimited boat transfers in the area, access to local transport, and use of cable cars and chairs up the mountain. The combined tickets are a little cheaper, so I would recommend it.

I first headed up to Mount Monju for some of the area’s best views. You can get the cable cars or chairs to the first observation deck. From here, you can either hike or get the bus up the top of the mountain.

I opted to hike, and it took me about 20 minutes going up, at a good pace, to get to the mountain temples. There were a few steep sections, so I recommend the bus for a more leisurely experience. The bus is paid separately and will get you up in about seven minutes.

The view at the top is incredible, and I much preferred it to the view you get at the first observation deck. You can get a clear view of the surrounding mountains and far-off villages. Bonus points here are that there are fewer people – at one point, I had the highest observation point to myself, and it was idyllic!

There are many more things to do around the area, like:

• Take the bus over to the floating village of Funaya
• Visit the local amusement park, ‘Amanohashidate Viewland.’
• Chill out on Amanohashidate beach
• Visit temples like Nariaiji Temple

See Related: Guide to Visiting Amanohasidate – ‘Kyoto by the Sea’

Himeji castle was the main draw for me taking a day trip to Himeji from Osaka.

It was a short train journey of around one hour on the JR lines and about 40 minutes using the Shinkansen trains.

It is incredibly easy to find the castle from Himeji Station, so much so you can put Google Maps aside and just use your own eyes. Leave Himeji station from the north exit, and after a few steps, the impressive castle will be in your sights!

All you have to do from here is walk up a straight road for no more than ten minutes, and you’ve reached the castle grounds. Himeji Castle opens at 9 a.m., and I would 100% recommend getting there about ten minutes before this. There was no queue to get a ticket, and they let us in early!

What is there to do in Himeji?

I would say Himeji Castle is an essential day trip from Osaka for history lovers and castle enthusiasts! It exceeded my opinion of Osaka Castle , and I would say if you’ve only got time for just one castle, Himeji wins.

I spent about 1.5 hours in the castle complex and saw a significant increase in crowd volume from when I first entered to when I left. Walking around in peace was a definite treat before the hoards of schoolchildren arrived (of which I think I passed three separate school groups amongst the other tourists).

The main keep of the castle is not accessible for wheelchair users, and I would say it might be a struggle for those unsteady on their feet. The stairs were very steep, and no lifts were available to scale the seven floors of the castle. For this reason, and the other inaccessible areas of the complex, I would not recommend this spot for those who need a wheelchair to get around.

I would also recommend getting the combined ticket to visit the nearby Koko-en garden. The total from the combined ticket was 1,050 yen, and the gardens are only a short five-minute walk from the castle. You only need about an hour to walk around, but it’s a pretty spot with multiple different styles of gardens to admire.

On my way back to the station, I stopped off at the local history museum. The ground floor of this museum holds its permanent exhibit and is completely free to visit (and the air con alone was worth popping in for). The top floor features special exhibits; you can enter for a small cost. When I went, they had an exhibit on retro toys.

See Related: How to Make the Most of Osaka – Osaka 3-Day Itinerary

3. Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

So, I’d heard of Hiroshima from the famous atomic bomb of 1945. It was a city I simply had to visit during my first visit to Japan! As for Miyajima Island, I’d seen it on a YouTube video, and it just looked too beautiful to pass up. Conveniently enough, these two top spots are close together and easy to get to from Osaka for a great, jam-packed day trip.

On the Shinkansen bullet train, it only takes about 1.5 hours to get to Hiroshima Station from Osaka. From there, it’s about 40 minutes on a local train to Miyajimguchi and then a 10-minute ferry to Miyajima Island. It’s a jam-packed, full-day trip from Osaka!

There are ferries from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, but getting the local train to Miyajimguchi was less hassle from where the JR trains drop you off.

If I could revisit the island, I would stay the night and see it in the early morning before the crowds fall in. On my visit, I arrived just shy of 10 a.m., and it was already wide awake and ready to go!

What is there to do on Miyajima Island?

There is much to do on the island; I spent five hours here and didn’t run out of things to do.

As well as the beautiful and worthwhile hike up Mount Misen, there’s also the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shrine, to gawp over in admiration. These are the top two attractions on the island, but there are also the adorable bowing deer and many places to eat!

• Check the return ferry into Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. I planned on returning to the city center this way as it would have given me more time to explore, but I didn’t think to check the tides. Noting that you can get away with 4 – 5 hours on the island, factor this into your return journey so you have enough time to see spots like the Peace Memorial Museum and other notable attractions in the city.

What is there to do in Hiroshima?

In this combination-day trip, you will end your time in the city center of Hiroshima . Make sure to visit the atomic bomb dome building, an iconic landmark in Japan. It’s right next to a very busy road, but there’s still a surreal, peaceful feeling when visiting.

Walk around Peace Memorial Park and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn more about the horrific historical moment that shocked the world. If I had the time for it, I would either take a separate day trip from Osaka to Miyajima and Hiroshima over two days or stop in Miyajima for the night and spend a little more time in both locations. They deserve the love!

See Related: Day Trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

Nara is a popular day trip to take from both Osaka and Kyoto.

Nara was the first capital city of Japan, and this historic city has plenty to offer visitors. Eight of the 25 UNESCO sites in Japan call Nara home, and I think it deserves more than just the day many people spend here.

I visited Nara for ten days rather than a fleeting visit of just one. While I think you can get the highlights in on a day trip, this lovely spot deserves at least an overnight stay to take in some more of what it has to offer.

Osaka to Nara takes less than an hour on the Kintetsu train line, and it’s about the same length of time to get to Nara from Kyoto. You can use a JR pass or your ICOCA card if traveling from Kyoto or Osaka.

What is there to do in Nara?

Of course, the main draw to Nara is to visit the bowing deer of Nara Park. Many kiosks sell biscuits for the deer (you can find these in the parks’ stores, too). Try to walk further into the park; this way, you won’t get bombarded. They were very gentle at taking the biscuits, though, and if you want them to leave you alone, just show them your empty hand; they will quickly move on.

Believe me when I say this spot, especially the area around the National Museum, is so busy! But the park is huge (660 hectares), so I recommend walking further in, and you can easily find quieter spots to relax and enjoy a little nature.

I especially enjoyed walking in the primeval forest of Nara Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, I saw snakes sunbathing by the path, rogue deer breaking away from the crowds, and the stone-carved cave Buddhas hidden away from the hustle and bustle.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Nara, Japan

Another popular day trip from Osaka is Kyoto . I was lucky enough to spend a week in this incredibly busy city and quickly learned why it’s so popular.

I think it’s a great shame many only look to a Kyoto day trip rather than sticking around a little longer. A minimum of three full days is needed to get a feel for the city.

Getting to Kyoto Station from Osaka Station can be done with a Japan Rail Pass, a single ticket from any ticket vending machine, or using your ICOCA card.

• The fastest routes you will find are covered by the Japan Rail Pass, which will get you to Kyoto from Osaka in a mere  15 minutes .
• A cheaper but longer option would be to take the special rapid service trains that take just shy of  half an hour  for about 560 yen.
• If you want to go even cheaper, opt for the Hankyu Railway, which will take you from Umeda Station in Osaka to central Kyoto in just over  40 minutes  for about 400 yen.

What is there to do in Kyoto?

The crowds at Kyoto are an experience in themselves! I braved many a 5 a.m. wakeup to see as many spots as possible before they got too busy (subject to some opening hours). Even so, there were many times during the one week I spent in Kyoto when I felt like a tinned sardine, so just be ready for that!

I suggest visiting some top spots as early as you can brave waking up. Many people have the same idea, so don’t think you’ll get these spots completely to yourself. The following are open 24 hours and are your best options for early morning visits:

• Arishiyama Bamboo Walk
• Fushimi Inari-Shrine

I would also suggest visiting  Kiyomizu-dera  when it opens at 6 a.m. This place is close to the old traditional shopping street, Sannenzaka, and believe me, this place is worth visiting early in the day. The amount of people there when I went at about 11 a.m. was almost suffocating.

See Related: Top Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

6. Mount Koya

If staying at a traditional Japanese Inn is high on your list of things to do in Japan, Mount Koya (Koyasan) provides some of the best lodging experiences in the whole country. So, while it is one of the best Osaka day trips to add to your itinerary, consider staying the night for the complete package.

The easiest way to get to Mount Koya from Osaka is via the Nankai Railway.

Take the Nakai Koya Line from Namba Station in Osaka, heading for Gokurakubashi Station:

• Limited Express train lines go directly to Gokurakubashi Station, which takes about 80 minutes and costs around 1720 yen.
• An express or special rapid service will take a little longer, at 100 minutes, but costs less at about 930 yen.

What is there to do on Mount Koya?

Mount Koya is often considered one of Japan’s most sacred sites. One of the main reasons to visit for a day trip from Osaka would be to open yourself up to learning more about Buddhism in Japan. Learn of its history and spiritual significance, or enjoy the beautiful monk-run temples and their tranquility.

Visit sacred landmarks like the monastery of the Shingon sect, the Konpon Daito Pagoda, or the Reihokan Museum, which houses many of the mountain’s most sacred items.

Veggies can rejoice at the vegetarian temple food available, but meat eaters alike will enjoy trying out the ‘Shojin Ryori’ cuisine. This consists of tofu and seasonal wild vegetables, a staple of the Buddhist monks.

Give meditation a go! Many temples on Mount Koya offer meditation experiences as a way to help guests center their bodies and minds. Ask the local monks about session times; you might find it an enriching addition to your visit.

One of the top things to do on Mount Koya is to book yourself into a temple stay. This is 100% something I will book myself for on a return trip to Japan! Different temple facilities are available, depending on preference and budget, but any one of them will be a worthwhile experience. With a temple stay, you can take more time to enjoy monk-led meditations, morning prayer services, and the Shojin Ryori cuisine.

See Related: What is Japan famous for?

7. Takeda Castle Ruins

The castle grounds of Takeda may be in ruins, but that doesn’t make them any less worth a visit! This spot is also known as the castle floating in the sky due to the low-rising morning clouds on crisp autumn mornings (best time to visit, in my opinion).

The castle was built in the early 15th Century and faced many battles, being abandoned not long after the battle of Sekigahara in the 17th Century. It was left alone after this and slowly faded away over the centuries. That is, until the 70s and 80s when it was lovingly restored, and it now serves as a popular tourist spot.

No actual buildings were rebuilt on the grounds, but the foundations are mostly intact, making it easy to visualize what it might have been like in its heyday.

First, get yourself to Himeji from Osaka (Osaka to Himeji will take about 40 minutes). Then, from Himeji, transfer to the JR Bantan Line.

Time your route to Himeji on the JR Bantan Line well (and, for that matter, your return), as there is roughly only one connection between Himeji and Takeda every hour. En route to Takeda from Himeji, you will transfer to Teramae Station, and the full trip from Himeji to Takeda will take about 90 – 110 minutes.

This day trip is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, but you can buy separate tickets otherwise.

Once you get to Takeda Station on your adventure day trip from Osaka, go straight to the ruins!

• By foot: Have comfy walking shoes at the ready and choose from the two nature trails leading up to the castle ruins. They are both fairly steep and will take you about 40 minutes. Hiking isn’t advisable after wet weather as it can get notoriously slippy.
• By car: Traveling on a self-driven trip around Japan? There are plenty of free parking lots in the small town.
• By taxi: Save yourself most of the walk up and jump in a taxi, which will cost about 2,000 yen and get you up most of the route in 15 minutes. From the taxi stop, it will be an easy 20-minute walk to the entrance.
• By bus: A cheaper alternative to taking a taxi, a bus up to the same stop the taxi will take you to will cost about 260 yen one-way, or 500 yen for a day pass.

What is there to do at Takeda Castle Ruins?

The number one thing to do at Takeda Castle Ruins is to, well, visit the ruins! Admission is 500 yen, and it’s worth noting that there is no access from 4th January until the end of February.

While there isn’t as much to do at the Takeda Castle Ruins as many other spots noted on this list, it still deserves a reference as one of the best day trips from Osaka. I think it’s a unique experience and a wonderful sight to behold.

Moreover, if visiting Osaka, the Takeda Castle Ruins will be a most welcome retreat from the noisy, bustling city. It’s a tranquil retreat to provide a relaxing day to revive you and prepare you to continue with your Japan vacation.

See Related: When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

8. Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is a great day trip from Osaka for those after a little adrenaline boost. It’s the largest lake in Japan and is bursting at the seams with activities to suit all ages and tastes.

Lake Biwa is easily accessible from Kyoto. Firstly, get yourself to Kyoto (route and timings discussed previously). Then, from Kyoto, it’s only about ten minutes to get to Otsu from Kyoto Station using the JR Tokaido Line.

• Otsu lies at the southern edge of Lake Biwa
• To get to the eastern side of the lake, continue on until Hikone

What is there to do at Lake Biwa?

An unmissable activity at Lake Biwa is to visit Okishima Island. It’s the only inhabited island in the area, and several cruise courses are available to explore the area.

Make your way to the lake’s northern side for top-tier camping if you want more than just the day trip. There’s the option to rent tents or upgrade to small cabins. Activities here include swimming in the lake or renting a bicycle from Nagahara Station, just a 30-minute walk away.

If you are visiting on a rainy day, or you just want to learn more about the area’s wildlife, head to the Biwa Lake Museum, with its underwater tunnel! The area is home to varied wildlife, including 62 species endemic to Japan.

Finally, make use of the lake itself! Go swimming, hire a canoe or kayak, try your balance at paddleboarding, or have a go at windsurfing! The lake makes for a wonderfully active day trip to burn off all that ramen.

Kobe wasn’t my favorite day trip from Osaka. If you’re strapped for time, I would strongly suggest one of the other mentions on this list over Kobe, as I think you’ll have a more enriching experience if you do. I know I’m really selling it, but I’m aware other people love this city, so if you have the time, consider adding it to your Japan itinerary.

It’s a very quick travel day for a Kobe day trip from Osaka! It only takes either:

• Around 15 minutes on the Sanyo Shinkansen bullet train from Shin-Osaka Station to Shin-Kobe Station
• Around 20 minutes on the JR Special Rapid Service from Osaka Station to Kobe Sannomiya Station

What is there to do in Kobe?

One thing I would recommend to do in  Kobe  would be to take the ropeway cable cars up to the herb gardens. These landscape gardens are easy to get to from the station; it will only take a five-minute walk, and the route is well-signposted. At the top, you have great city views and a slightly surreal German village-style setup to buy food and merchandise.

The Nada district of Kobe is also a massive hit among sake fans! It has many great breweries to visit and an opportunity to get in a sake tasting or two (or as many as you like). The Kobe Maritime Museum is also a great hit for the whole family. Or maybe make a stop at the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge!

See Related: Top Cities in Japan to Visit

What is the best day trip from Osaka?

If you’re stretched for time, the best day trips from Osaka would be Nara or Kyoto. Both cities are only short trips from Osaka and have many things to do and see that can make any trip to Japan great!

I would also say, while it’s a slightly longer travel day, taking a day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima is also a great shout. This day trip takes you far from the Kansai Region and has a lovely mix of nature and history for a well-rounded experience.

Is it better to do day trips from Osaka or Kyoto?

Kyoto is only about half an hour away from Osaka, so if you’re looking at easy day trips anywhere in the west of Japan, either city is a good base. But Osaka is the better option as it has cheaper accommodation options, and traveling from Osaka to many of the best day trips on this side of Japan is quicker and more convenient than Kyoto.

How many days in Osaka is enough?

When adding any day trips into your time visiting Osaka, four days in Osaka is a comfortable minimum. Three days will give you plenty of time to take the city in at a leisurely pace, and then add on however many days you need to include any day trips to your itinerary.

See Related: The Best of Japan for First-Time Visitors – 2-Week Itinerary, Japan

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13 Best Day Trips from Osaka

During my travels I’ve passed through Osaka a few times and each time I have no problem finding stuff to do, it’s just such a cool city and one I’m happy to keep coming back to. But, if you’re going, you really should tear yourself away from the city’s sake and sushi scene to explore some other spots on a day trip from Osaka .

Osaka is a great gateway to nearby southern cities and with an average train delay time of 18 seconds in Japan, you can pretty much rely on the rail links to get you where you need. There’s so many cool places to visit from Osaka, it’d be rude not to. 

It’s easy to take a side trip from Osaka, thanks to the excellent rail service in Japan. There’s also a great, modern new airport in Osaka, which means you can base yourself there, and take day trips from Osaka for a more unique trip in Japan.

Disclaimer –

some of these experiences were enjoyed on a press trip basis. All thoughts and impressions my own though, of course. 

1. Osaka day trip to Lake Biwa 

I’m recently back from a week around Lake Biwa – exploring the many things to do in Fukui , in the north, and researching a guide to Shiga , around the lake. There’s so much to do around Lake Biwa , making it a great choice for a day trip from Osaka.

The capital city of Shiga, Otsu, is only 1 hour 15 minutes away from Osaka on the train. From here you can join day tours to make the most of the lake. Visiting Lake Biwa is a great way to release yourself from the craziness of the city.

Mt. Hiei and the Enryakuji Temple are the two biggest highlights, along with the stunning Shirahige Jinja shrine too. 

2. Day trip from Osaka to Koyosan 

A day trip from Osaka to Koyasan may be pushing it a bit, but if you’re really short on time it’s still worth fitting in. Koyasan is known as the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism, and is filled with over 100 temples high up in the mountains of Koya.

One of the most popular things to do in Koyasan is a temple stay, which is exactly what I did at the Henjosonin Temple. You’d obviously need to stay overnight for this though.

If you only have the day to spend in Koyasan then I’d recommend checking out the Tori Gates, getting a traditional Japanese lunch, visiting the Okunoin Cemetery, the Kobo Daishi Mausoleum and going to see the view from the Daimon (the Great Gate). 

READ MORE: What to Expect from a Koyasan Temple Stay

3. Osaka day trip to Sakai 

Sakai is only a few stops on the train from the centre of Osaka, yet, a more relaxed and green world. The big thing to do here is to check out the Daisen Kofun, known as the Japanese pyramids. These are mausoleums on islands set up in ode to the emperors gone by.

No one is allowed on the islands, so your experience will just be through VR, but they’re a fascinating thing to learn about and will give you an insight into Japan’s past. 

One of the highlights of my day trip to Sakai was to have lunch in a traditional home, the Hanachawa, to try the Kofun curry. Basically, a bit like a Katsu curry but in the shape of a Kofun. What more could you want?! 

The lady was lovely and I really liked being in her home. Also, I wrote in her guest book in Japanese (using Google translate) and everyone said how amazing my Japanese handwriting was so I thoroughly enjoyed that. 

Other things to do in Sakai include the Sakai Hamono Museum . Here you can learn more about Japan’s ironmonger production and invest in a knife (think £80+ to thousands) and see the incredible amount of knives for different purposes.

You can learn about the traditional tea ceremony at the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko. Here you’ll see a traditional tea house, and even go in it, and also get to try some Japanese confectionary, and some macha tea.

Speaking of Japanese confectionary, how about a little workshop? At Café Sacay, you can learn about the ancient art of confectionary making. Using a mixture of soy bean and sugar you too can create such delicacies as these above.

On the left is what it was meant to look like, versus my effort (right). To be honest, I actually like mine better. That tasche! 

4. Osaka day trip to Arima Onsen 

Arima Onsen is an onsen town just over an hour away from Osaka. Here you can wander around the pretty town and do a bit of shopping in the many handmade shops. From Japanese woodwork, to an entire shop dedicated to pepper, and another to pens with tiny dolls who pop out when the pen is used – you can pick up some real local treats here. 

You can also bathe in the public onsens, which all use the geothermally heated water, straight from the ground. Thanks to the tectonic activity here the water comes through at 98C.

If you’d rather have more of a personal experience at an onsen, then visit the Gekko-en Korokan . Here you can book to have a private room to yourself so you don’t have to get your bits out in front of everyone else. I had a really nice 40-minute bathing experience in their hot waters. 

As well as the bathing, which was lush looking out the Arima hills, there was also all kinds of moisturiser, face pack and hair treatment to play with. It was kinda like being let loose in a Boots, just getting to use what I wanted, as I pleased. Loved it! 

My restaurant recommendation would also be here, as you can enjoy a traditional Japanese feast, served by a waitress in full on geisha kimono. The plinky music, muted green and pink tones of the decoration and gentle ambience, just felt so Japanese. It was a really lovely experience before the onsen.

I’d 100% recommend. 

H ow about booking a ryokan in Osaka , with a private onsen? Most of these are a train ride out of the city, and for that you’ll get some peace and tranquility after your day of sightseeing.

5. Universal Studios Japan day trip from Osaka

Universal Studios Japan is IN Osaka, so it’s not really a day trip from there, but in there. Get me?

I had a brilliant day at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka – filled with Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride and treats, laughs on the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, screams on the (terrifying) Jurassic Park’s,  The Flying Dinosaur ride,  and fun meeting the characters. 

It’s easy to get to from anywhere in Osaka, using the Metro. And you’ll be released right in front of the park onto Universal Walk, filled with restaurants and shops to enjoy. 

Some of the simulators are only in Japanese (that was a long 30 minutes on the Terminator ride) but there’s still plenty to do for non-Japanese speaking people. Especially from summer 2020, when Super Nintendo World is coming to the park.

It’s a me, a Mario!

6. Day trip from Osaka to Tokushima

Most people head to Tokushima, a city on Shikoku island, for its big Awa Odori Festival in August, but it’s nice to go out of season too when it’s a bit less crowded. You can still learn about the dance fest at the Awa Odori Kaikan building.

There are also castles, museums, shrines and temples to entertain you, but one of the coolest things is to learn about traditional indigo dyeing at the House of Indigo. If you’re not feeling crafty, there’s the puppet show at Awa Jorbe Yashiki or the relaxed Awa Shinmachigawa Brewery to sample the local brews.

7. Osaka day trip to Hiroshima

Two and a half hours by train, Hiroshima is primed to give a sobering history lesson. Now known as the Peace Capital, places like the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park tell the city’s sad World War II story.

More than just its history, Hiroshima also serves great food like barbecued oysters, okonomiyaki and saltwater eels, and is now a super modern and cool place to visit on a day trip from Osaka. Although, TBH, I’d recommend staying overnight to get the most from it. 

8. Day trip from Osaka to Kobe

Got your harems with you? Whip them out for a day trip here because this is a foodie’s paradise and requires some waistband wiggle room. Once you hop off the 30 minute train, you can opt for street food, a set lunch menu, a cup of sake or blow your budget entirely on a Kobe steak.

Kobe is totally doable in a day trip from Osaka. You’ll arrive right in the heart of the city at Nankinmachi Street. This is the high street and where you’ll find cool shops like Tokyo Hands and ChinaTown too. Also, there’s a great shopping street called Motomachi, filled with cool little quirky shops, rather than the big corporate ones. Pick up your quirky knick knacks here. 

The Ikutajinja Shrine is a must while you’re in Kobe. And if you have time, and it’s not winter, then head up to the Kobe Herb Garden. Flowers and herbs were a bit sparse in the January I visited, but the photos look gorgeous for the rest of the year. Even if it is winter, the 1460m high views from the cable car make it a year round destination.

The cafe at the top serves some great food too – and they had tuna carpaccio on the all you can eat salad buffet too, which I still haven’t quite got over. 

You don’t have to stay at the Kobe Meriken Oriental to go and check out their 14th floor bar, right on the edge of the harbour. There’ll be a singer up there, and some great cocktails. You can also see out to the Kobe Port Tower, where you should totally go and enjoy sake on the revolving 3rd floor of the observatory floor. 

If you have the budget then the Kobe Beef teppanyaki experience in the Kobe Steak House Restaurant next door is without a doubt one of the best meals I’ve ever had. We had a lobster starter, a delicious matcha brownie dessert and Kobe Beef in every way in between.

All enjoyed with a glass of French red overlooking the frankly impressive light show on the ferris wheel at Harborland. 

If you don’t have $500+ to spend on Kobe Beef (I KNOW!) then you can always give the local delicacy a try at the Kobe Beef Gallery in the Shin-Kobe train station.

Could be a nice welcome / goodbye to your day trip to Kobe.

9. Osaka day trip to Kyoto

Go on a day trip from Osaka to Kyoto and this is your big chance to try out the bullet train. What would usually be an hour between Osaka and Kyoto takes only 15 minutes, and this is where you’ll find the picture postcard version of Japan you’ve been looking for.

Teahouses, cherry blossoms, geishas, gardens, over 2000 temples; the UNESCO World Heritage Site has it all. I’d suggest starting off your day with a visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha before filling up on some of Japan’s best sushi.

Afterwards, when the post lunch haze is real, take a quick bathe in an onsen, wander around the Gion district or stop by the Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion before speeding back to Osaka.

One of the most memorable things I did in Kyoto was to dress up like a geisha and get my hair and make up done. There are lots of different places offering this service, and it’s a lot of fun!

10. Day trip from Osaka to Kinosaki

This day tour from Osaka is well worth the early start and three hour travel time. Right out of a story book, Kinosaki is all narrow streets, willow trees, pretty bridges and quaint houses. A romantic little place, it’s known for its many hot springs and 7 public baths so prepare to come back literally smelling of roses.

After you’ve bathed your troubles away, fill up on some of the local delicacy of snow crab before questioning whether this place could be any cuter with a visit to the stork sanctuary. Yes, that’s an actual thing.

11. Osaka day trip to Takeda Castle

Not to be confused with Takeshi’s Castle (entirely different thing), Takeda Castle is a few trains away from Osaka, oh and a 40-minute hike to the top. The castle ruins are so high up that when there are clouds if often looks like it’s floating, which explains its local nickname of ‘the castle in the clouds’.

If you fancy seeing it amongst all the mist, stay overnight in Asago and head up there for sunrise. Once it’s light, you can wander around the old foundations of the fortress.

12. Osaka day trip to Iga

Go all black everything with a trip to Iga because this is a ninja town where hundreds of samurai warriors lived and trained. You can stop by the Iga School of Ninjutsu’s museum to learn a bit about the history of ninjas, catch a ninja skill show and even get fitted for your own outfit. Not sure when you’d ever get to wear it again, but I’m sure it’d be fun at the time.

Keep your education going by stopping by some of the places the ninjas were known to train like Ueno Park, the Akame 48 Waterfalls or the Aoyama Highlands.

13 . Osaka day trip to Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is Japan’s national treasure and is made up of dozens of white towers in the traditional Japanese style. Built back in the 1300s on a hilltop, it’s right out of a fairytale and has over 80 buildings across six levels and huge gardens to wander around.

An hour and a half west of Osaka, you’ll spend hours exploring inside. Make sure to leave time to explore the Kokoen Garden next door too. It’s in the typical Japanese style and has a little tea house inside too. There are some huge koi in the pond, and pretty bridges too. 

Best day trips from Osaka 

See, there are loads of awesome ways to spend a day near Osaka. You can fly into Kansai Airport and be in the city on the Namba Express in less than an hour.

Who needs Tokyo hey?!

Pin these day trips from Osaka for later?

Related Posts:

• The Cheapest Way to Travel from Tokyo to Osaka
• How to Have the Best 24 Hours in Osaka Ever
• 9 Absolute Best Day Trips from Kyoto
• Best Itinerary for 2-3 Days in Osaka
• An Awesome Kobe Day Trip Itinerary For You
• 5 Best Ryokan in Osaka with Private Onsen

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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13 COOLEST Day Trips from Osaka [2023!]

In fact, there’s a whole host of top day trips from Osaka that are just a couple of hours from the centre of the city. Making Osaka your base for your trip to Japan means you can tick off your Japanese bucket list just by making easy day trips from Japan’s second city.

We’ve rounded up the best day trips from Osaka, from amazing day trips for kids to castles and famous attractions to romantic trips for couples to beautiful mountains – as well as the best day trips by train, including world famous Kyoto.  

We’ve got them all, so it’s time to pack your camera and get ready because unforgettable trips are waiting for you.

Editor’s note – Check out our 15 best hostels in Osaka and find an epic place to stay in Osaka! 

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Osaka

• Day Trips from Osaka by Train – Nara
• Romantic Day Trips from Osaka for Couples –  From Osaka: Amanohashidate, Ine no Funaya & Miyama
• Best Day Trips from Osaka with Kids –  Himeji Castle

Best Places to Stay in Osaka

When it comes to staying in the capital of Japan’s version of soul food ( okonomiyaki and takoyaki anyone?), staying near a transport hub is a great idea. It means less changes when navigating the city, and being in easy reach of top day trip attractions nearby. And here’s a little secret: train stations is where the action is in Japan!

• Best Hostel in Osaka •

Backstage osaka hostel & bar.

• Super fun bar

The Western-owned Backstage Osaka Hostel & Bar has definitely got a few things going for it that makes it a fun place to be. The bunks come with privacy curtains and feature comfy mattresses, but most of all the owner makes everyone feel at home… definitely helped by the cosy and lively atmosphere of the bar here!

•  Best Budget Hotel in Osaka •

Hotel plaza osaka.

• Very good value for money

This budget hotel in Osaka is surprisingly affordable, making it a great option for someone who doesn’t want to stay in a hostel but still wants to stick to a budget. You get hotel luxuries here, spacious rooms with TVs, multiple restaurants plus a cafe and a bar. Located near a train station, getting to more central areas – or out of town – is easy from her.e

• Best Luxury Hotel in Osaka •

Conrad osaka.

• The ultimate in central location

If you want to stay high above everything else with a view of a bustling city skyline, sleek modern design, world class dining, a swimming pool, 24-hour gym, a killer location – and a whole load of other perks – then this is your luxury pick for Osaka.

#1 – Best Day Trip from Osaka – Nara

Day trips from osaka by train.

• Pretty temples
• Friendly wild deer
• Delicious snacks

This easy day trip from Osaka by train is a quick and simple journey that will mean you get to experience a day out in the beautiful city of Nara.

Nara was once the capital of Japan but, even though it is relatively near to the popular tourist town of Kyoto, it’s much less touristy.

Spend the day in Nara walking around its charming shopping streets, stopping off to snack on local delicacies such as sweet mochi and senbei, a type of flavoured rice cracker.

Make your way up from the train station towards Nara Park where you’ll soon be greeted by the semi-wild deer that roam here.

There are many historic temples located around the park area, Todai-ji is home to one of the biggest bronze buddhas in the world. Make sure to walk all the way up to the top of Nara Park, through the ancient woodland and past the moss-covered lanterns to the still serenity of Kasuga Shrine.

And if you’re feeling really full of energy, you can hike to the top of Wakakusa for fantastic views across the city.

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#2 – Kyoto

• UNESCO city
• Historic temples
• Beautiful old streets

A visit to Kyoto is at the top of most Japan itineraries and rightly so. Staying in the UNESCO city can be expensive – but it’s a great (and easy) day trip from Osaka by train.

Many of the top sights can be seen in a day, especially if you take a tour with a guide that can show you around, meaning you won’t waste any time getting lost. Stop off first at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple where you can soak up the historical ambience and gaze in awe across the city from Higashi-yama.

Afterwards, head to Sanju-san-gen-do Temple and attempt to count all of the 1001 statues on show. Afterwards, make the hike up the hundreds of steps, through the numerous red toris at the truly magical Inari-Taisha temple, your efforts to hike up the steps will be rewarded with great views of the old town.

Make sure to try some of the delicious and delicate traditional dishes severed up all over Kyoto and don’t forget to pay a visit to the iconic Kinkaku-ji (officially Rokuon-Ji) temple with its top two floors that are completely covered in gold leaf.

Still haven’t booked for Osaka? Check out our favorite boutique hotels in Osaka

#3 – Arashiyama

• Beautiful nature
• Great photo opportunities
• Peaceful train journey

One of the top sights in Japan and easily one of the best day trips from Osaka has to be to the bamboo groves at Arashiyama . Famous the world over and the cover of many Japanese guidebooks, the majestic bamboo groves provide a peaceful getaway from the bright lights of Osaka.

Hop on the train in Osaka and enjoy the gentle journey through the countryside to Arashiyama. Once there, follow the steady stream of people across the river and up into the bamboo itself. Make sure to get there early as it does get busy here as the day goes on.

But even with the crowds, the groves remain an enchanting place, looking up in the thousands of swaying bamboos is an unforgettable experience.

After you have enjoyed the delight of the bamboo and taken all of the pictures you can, take a stroll around the surrounding park. There are some really picturesque walkways to enjoy away from the groups of tourists and a breathtaking valley that has been cut away by a river.

Bring lunch with you and enjoy a picnic in the park, or visit a local cafe nearer the station.  

Let’s simplify this! Here are our favorite areas to stay in Kanazawa !

#4 – Miyajima

• Famous floating shrine
• Great hiking
• Fun ropeway

Miyajima is a place that has to be seen to be believed. Images of the red floating torii shrine gate have lured travellers to the pretty island for many years – and it’s not hard to see why. One of the best day trips from Osaka by train, getting to Miyajima is fairly straightforward.

Once you arrive on the bullet train from Osaka, take a charming local tram to the ferry terminal and then hop on the speedy ferry across to the island itself. As you arrive by boat you will get your first glimpse of the enigmatic torii gate that seems as if it’s hovering above the metallic water.

Once off the ship, you’ll be greeted by a fairly friendly crowd of semi-wild deer who are all looking for snacks. The deer are pretty laid back and make for a fun selfie, especially with the shrine in the background!

Sit on the beach for a while and watch as the tide goes out and reveals the beach around the floating shrine. For a better view of the surrounding area, you can hike up the Mount Misen and enjoy a spot of lunch at the top and then take the ropeway down.

Staying Safe in Osaka

While Osaka is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Japan!

#5 – Amanohashidate

Romantic day trips from osaka for couples.

• Beautiful natural scenery
• One of the Famous Views of Japan
• Charming location

Often referred to as ‘Kyoto by the Sea’ or ‘Coastal Kyoto’, the incredibly picturesque Amanohashidate is one of coolest day trips from Osaka for couples.

Situated in Miyazu Bay on the northern coast of Kyoto Prefecture, Amanohashidate is actually a pine clad sandbar stretching across the sea. Its beauty has captivated many for hundreds of years and earned itself a place among the famous Three Views of Japan.

On the mountain slope opposite the sandbar, you’ll find Kasamatsu Park – you can get a cable car up here for the perfect view of this beautiful slice of nature. The view alone from up above makes this a perfectly romantic day trip from Osaka.

Nearby there are some charming attractions other than this famous feature of the land. There’s the village of Ine, featuring houseboats and wooden houses set on stilts around the bay, and the serene Buddhist temple of Nariaiji located to the north of the sandbar itself.

#6 – Hiroshima Peace Memorial

• Good for history lovers
• Peaceful city
• Important message

Taking a trip to Hiroshima is one of the best Osaka day trips not only for the amazing food and the beautiful cherry blossom in Spring but for the city’s harrowing past.  Hit with an atomic bomb on 6th August 1945, Hiroshima was left utterly devastated.

Today, the city has a decidedly laid-back and peaceful atmosphere, and that even extends to the Peace Memorial Museum. Laying down the facts without sensationalism or placing blame anywhere, the museum guides you through what happened, tells heart-rending stories and urges the visitor to consider a world without nuclear weapons.

Once you’ve finished a visit to the museum, walk around the park in which it’s located and find the Peace Memorial itself. Previously an official building, this edifice was left standing after the gigantic explosion of the bomb and now serves as a testament to a city rebuilt and as a symbol of peace.

This day trip from Osaka for couples will have you emotional, and you’ll be thankful to have your partner to share your thoughts with on the way back to the fun of Osaka.

Recommended Reading – You can check out our article about the best places to visit in Japan.

#7 – Kurashiki

• Great for history lovers
• Romantic canal areas
• Amazing architecture

If you’re looking for the most idyllic and romantic destination possible when it comes to day trips from Osaka, Kurashiki definitely ranks somewhere near the top.  Just over two hours’ drive (or by train) west of Osaka, in Okayama Prefecture, the town of Kurashiki is famous for its picturesque canals.

Particularly you’ll love strolling around Bikan Historical Quarter, packed full of charming wooden buildings dating back hundreds of years, and a lot of 17th-century warehouses poised over the canals.

Even into the modern era, there’s a lot to be said for Kurashiki.  You can visit the nostalgic Ivy Square, complete with Meiji era mill, and there’s also the 1917 Kurashiki-kan – formerly the town hall.

This town also plays host to Japan’s first museum of Western art: the Ohara Museum of Art (1930), which contains works from Monet and Matisse to El Greco.

Whilst on this romantic day trip from Osaka for couples you and your partner will love walking around this charming town. You can even get a boat tour along the canal on a historic boat and learn about the history of beautiful Kurashiki.

#8 – Koya-san

• Incredible natural surroundings
• Fantastic hiking
• Spiritual site

Koyasan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the centre of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. The religious mountain is a sacred site and attracts thousands of visitors a year who want to enjoy the beautiful surrounding nature.

Koyasan is an easy day trip from Osaka and is a fantastic spot to snap some top travel pictures. In the Autumn this place is particularly special, as the leaves change colour the whole mountain changes to shades of gold and amber and is an unforgettable experience.

The mountain is a holy place so it’s advised to show respect as you walk around the old pathways and explore the numerous shrines scattered along the hillside.

Koyasan is located in the middle of eight higher peaks surrounding it – resembling a lotus flower, which was the reason the site was chosen in the first place, the lotus being an important symbol for the religion.

As this is a Buddhist site, the food served up here is strictly vegetarian but also very delicious. Make sure to try out the delicately prepared dishes in the restaurants tucked away in the mountain and spend the day learning about the Buddhist religion as well as getting a greater understanding of Japanese culture.

Editor’s  Recommendation  – You HAVE to check out our article about 7 AMAZING Neighborhoods to stay in Yokohama!

#9 – Kobe

• Fun Chinatown
• Top shopping

Kobe is famous the world over for its fantastic beef and you can have the chance to try some of the tasty stuff too on this tour. A fantastic romantic trip for couples from Osaka, especially if you are both foodies, you won’t want to miss this one!

Soak up the sights and sounds of the city in the vibrant Chinatown where you can snap a load of great pictures as well. Head off to Kobe Motomachi, the shopping district with all of the top shopping and the best food you can get. Treat your and your partner to the ultimate tasty lunch of Kobe beef.

Walk off all of that delicious food at the Ikuta Shrine, a Shinto shrine that dates back to the third century, and then wander around the mystifying backstreets of Kobe.

Make sure to drop into the Kobe City Museum and learn about the history of the city and soak up the views of the area at the top of Rokko Mountain. Wrap up your great Osaka day trip with a visit to the foreign area of Kitano.

Need more info? Here’s a rundown of things to do in Osaka  to fill your time there!

#10 – Himeji Castle

Best day trips from osaka with kids.

• Castle adventures
• Exciting train journey
• Beautiful cherry blossom

If you are visiting Japan with children visiting a castle is a must. Himeji Castle is an easy day trip from Osaka for families and will make for a fun and memorable day out for children. Getting to Himeji takes just over half an hour from Osaka on the Shinkansen and will be an exciting adventure for little ones.

The city is a buzzing and enjoyable place to visit and boasts a beautiful 17th-century caste. Himeji castle is actually a UNESCO world heritage site and it’s not hard to see why its one of the most visited castles in the whole of Japan.

Walk through the old Otemon Gate and gaze on the captivating sight of the old castle sitting high up on a stone formation. Climb the steps up to the castle itself and imagine what life would have been like for the old Lords who lived here. Explore the different levels of the castle, peer through the small windows and soak up the panoramic views of the city below. This is bound to be a great experience for any children and will captivate their imagination.

Once you’ve had all of your fun walking around the castle, you can explore the castle grounds and play among the cherry trees with your family. This is a great spot for pictures, especially in Spring when the cherry trees are in full bloom and many locals sit under the blossom to enjoy picnics.

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#11 – Universal Studios Japan

• Great for fans of video games and anime
• Easy to get to
• Rides and attractions

One of four such Universal Studios in the world, the Japanese edition is possibly the best day trip from Osaka with kids.

Filled with rides and attractions that sometimes mirror the California based original (such as themed worlds like Jurassic Park), there is also something uniquely Japanese in this theme park, in that popular characters originating from Japan are featured throughout!

So if your children (or you) are fans of anime, manga or cute characters from Japan like Hello Kitty, there’s no doubt that you’ll love seeing these unique creations on show at this place.  You’ll stumble across characters from One Piece and Dragonball, real size giants from Attack on Titan, as well as from video games like Final Fantasy and Resident Evil.

But it’s not all photo opportunities. With rides on offer too, if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush while your little ones look on you can find that here too.

With so much to see and do at Universal Studios Japan, this is definitely one of the coolest Osaka day trips you could ever go on. You can even get a private transfer here to make the trip even easier!

#12 – NIFREL

• Unique experience
• Cool building
• Educational

A zoo and aquarium with a difference, NIFREL is actually an ‘aquazoo’ where the approach to teaching people about animals is interesting and makes it easy for children to learn.

Situated in an arty and modern building once used for the 1970 World Expo, NIFREL splits the animals on show up into unique categories. Zones focused on ‘Abilities’, ‘Shapes’ and ‘Colour’ rather than the types of animals focus on the unique capabilities and facets of the animals that make up our world.

‘Behaviour’ is most popular, where you can get very close to some of the animals living here – including playful lemurs!

There’s even a ‘Wonder Moments’ zone, where you’ll forget you’re in a zoo and instead be mesmerised by a stunning show of created by Takahiro Matsuo. You’ll be glad you came on this unique day trip from Osaka for children.

Situated only 20 minutes north of Osaka city, nobody will be bored on the journey to this unique attraction.

Will you also visit Hakone? Check out where we like to stay in Hakone !

#13 – Naoshima

• Perfect for art enthusiasts
• Calm rural feeling
• Fun discoveries

Located to the west of Osaka off the coast of Okayama in the Seto Inland Sea, the island of Naoshima has become almost like ‘Art Island’ thanks to the incredible amount of galleries, art museums as well as art installations and sculptures that dot the small isle.

It’s a great day trip from Osaka with kids because they’ll just love discovering the weird and wonderful world of art that’s spread all around. Everyday buildings become artworks, such as the bathhouse I Love Yu which doubles up as a piece of art in itself. Elsewhere the traditional Ando House has been transformed with an unusual concrete interior.

You’ll also find some playful sculptures of the famous Japanese artist Yayoi Kusuma – including a few of her signature giant polka dot pumpkins.

The rural feel of the island makes for a welcome break from the urban sprawl of Osaka, a chance for a breath of fresh air and a world of art.  And since the journey also involves a ferry this will no doubt be an exciting experience for younger children!

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Osaka

There you have it, all of the best day trips from Osaka that you could ever want. You’re going to have the best time in the city having adventures to all those amazing places and also get the chance to spend time in Japan’s peaceful natural scenery too.

From visiting the magical floating shrine at Miyajima to the ever fun Universal Studios and hopping on a Japanese bullet train to some incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Osaka offers some of the best day trips in Japan.

If you want to take a romantic day trip from Osaka, fancy taking a day trip on the train, or want to take a trip from Osaka with your family, there’s an exciting day out for everyone to have an unforgettable experience.

Now it’s time to brush up on your best Japanese!

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11 Best Day Trips From Osaka: See What the Kansai Region Has To Offer!

There is so much to see in Japan's midwestern region of Kansai, and Osaka is the best place to base yourself to explore it! From beaches to sacred temples , nature escapes and more, Kansai has it all. We have put together a list of 11 spots that make the perfect day trips from Osaka. So pack your day bag, and get ready to experience the rich nature and culture of Japan and the excitement of traveling, without having to stray too far from the city!

1. Harvest Hill: A Green Theme Park Full of Fun and Food!

2. nishikinohama beach park: a seaside park with white beaches and green pines, 3. mount inunaki: enjoy hot springs and mountain climbing on a secluded mountain, 4. kishiwada castle: an artistic castle and garden, 5. kishiwada danjiri festival: experience the excitement of a traditional festival, 6. mount izumi katsuragi: mountain climbing, forest bathing, and a magnificent landscape, 7. tondabayashi jinai-machi: a traditional town to enjoy your holiday, 8. rinku park: enjoy a refreshing view, 9. mozu-furuichi burial mounds: one of the 3 largest burial tombs in the world, 10. boken no mori in nose: a forest adventure like no other, 11. koyasan: sacred buddhist area and a popular day trip from osaka.

Harvest-no-Oka, or Harvest Hill, is an agricultural theme park on a vast expanse of land. Seasonal flowers are always in full bloom, as the natural environment is carefully maintained throughout the year. It's the perfect day trip from Osaka to enjoy with family, especially if you have younger children.

There are also many experiences where you can interact with animals, such as milking cows, riding horses, and feeding animals such as sheep, capybaras, and rabbits. There is a playground, too, with all kinds of interesting activities, such as an aerial athletics adventure, a grass slide, and funny bikes that you can ride!

You can also enjoy hands-on experiences such as harvesting vegetables in the garden , making handmade ice cream and bread, and eating gourmet dishes. Access: ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr 21 min ・From Izumigaoka Station of the Semboku Rapid Railway, take the No. 6 Bus Line from the bus terminal to Harvest no Oka (Nankai Route Bus). You will arrive in about 20 minutes. Covid-19 Countermeasures All places in the park are thoroughly disinfected, and vinyl curtains are installed where needed. Masks are required in both indoor and crowded outdoor areas.

• Address 2405-1 Hachigamine, Minami-ku, Sakai City, Osaka, 590-0125
• Phone Number 072-296-9911

Admission: Adults: 1,000 yen; Students (junior high/high school/university/trade school), Seniors 65+: 700 yen; Children (4 and up): 600 yen; Children (3 and under): Free (All prices include tax) Regular Holidays: (for 2020) Every Wednesday from December to February

A popular seaside day trip from Osaka, Nishikinohama Beach Park attracts nearly 1 million visitors each year. Inside the park are popular Osaka beaches , BBQ facilities, clamming areas, and sports facilities. The place gets its name, Nishikinohama (literally, "two-color beach"), from the white color of the sandy beach and the green color of the pine forests .

The picturesque beach and green park were selected as one of the top 100 sandy beaches with green pines in Japan. They are full of sights to see that will keep you busy from sunrise to sunset! On sunny days, you can even see Kansai International Airport , Awaji Island , Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the Rokko Mountains from the beach. This is definitely a fun place to visit as a family or with your friends!

You can also enjoy a BBQ at the rental facilities along the coastal green area (you must use the facility's ingredients; bringing your own BBQ into the park is prohibited). To use the space, make reservations online. You can also reserve the food ingredients you would like to use. The cost is about 2,000 yen (tax included) per person, and may be used by parties of 2 people or more. Restrictions on party size may be enforced to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Before visiting this park , as a measure against coronavirus, visitors are requested to register with the Osaka Covid-19 Tracing System, as well as follow all other health precautions such as wearing a mask, washing hands, and maintaining social distance. Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr 11 min ・About 10 minutes west on foot from the nearest station, Nishikinohama Station on the Nankai Main Line.

• Address 859-1 Sawa, Kaizuka City, Osaka 597-0062
• Phone Number 072-422-0442

Hours: 9:00AM-5:00PM Admission: Free (fees apply for using BBQ area, sports facilities, and ocean sports) Regular Holiday: Dec 29-Jan 3 Prohibited: No BBQ or swimming allowed in 2020. Skateboarding, loud music, drones, remote-control cars, and any activity that causes damage to the flowers or trees are always prohibited. For more details, visit the website at: http://www.nishikinohama.com

Especially for trekkers, one of the more popular day trips from Osaka would include visiting Mount Inunaki. The temple of Inunaki-san was established 1,300 years ago as the sacred training grounds of Shugendo ( mountain asceticism) by well-known ascetic and mystic, En-no-Gyoja. There are many waterfalls in the mountains , both large and small, and the scenery along the mountain streams is as mysterious as it is breathtaking.

People from all over Japan still gather here for this training, such as 'takigyou,' the practice of meditation while sitting under a waterfall. You can also visit Shipporyuji Temple , the main temple of the Shingon Buddhist sect, and home to the principal guardian deity Kurikara Dairyu Fudo Myo-o, a dragon deity believed to grant wishes.

Inunakiyama Onsenkyo is also popularly known as the closest hot springs to the Kansai International Airport . There are many hot spring inns you can visit on a day trip, including some with rock baths and open-air baths. For more information on Shipporyuji Temple and individual hot springs inns, please visit their website ( http://www.kankou-izumisano.jp/ ). We also recommend checking out the 5-hour round-trip hiking course! Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr 25 min ・Ride the Nankai Wing Bus South to the Inunakisan Bus Stop from Izumisano Station on the Nankai Main Line.

• Address Ogi, Izumisano City, Osaka 598-0023

Hours: 8:45AM-5:15PM Admission: Regular Holidays: Saturdays, Sundays, Public Holidays, Year-end Holidays, New Years Holidays

Kishiwada Castle is a landmark of Kishiwada City. The exact date of its establishment, as well as exactly who established it, remains unknown. However, it did serve as the residence of the Matsura clan, the family that ruled the Senshu Region at the time, towards the end of the Sengoku (Warring States) Period in the mid 16th century. The garden is designated as a National Scenic Spot, and the castle ruins are designated as Historic Sites of Osaka. As you can see, the historical value of Osaka is highly regarded! The garden , called Hachijin-no-Niwa ( Garden of Eight Battle Formations), was developed by a famous Japanese gardener, Mirei Shigemori, based on the strategic battle formation designed by the Chinese general Zhuge Liang.

During the Danjiri Festival ( Autumn Festival) period, danjiri floats are brought around Kishiwada Castle . The castle tower is illuminated both during the day and at night.

Kishiwada Castle is about 7 minutes on foot from Takojizo Station on the Nankai Electric Railway/Nankai Line. It is a great place for anyone interested in Japanese buildings and historic sightseeing spots. Information boards and websites in the venue are multilingual for your convenience. Also, as measures against coronavirus, visitors are asked to maintain social distance, wear a mask, and carefully wash hands when you get home. Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr

• Address 9-1 Kishiki-cho, Kishiwada City, Osaka 596-0073
• Nearest Station Kishiwada Station
• Phone Number 072-431-3251

Hours: 10:00AM-5:00PM (Admission ends 4:00PM) Closes 8:30PM on castle festival days (admission ends 8:00PM) Castle Tower Admission: Adults: 300 yen (tax included); junior high school students and younger enter free Regular Holidays: Mondays (open on holidays and during castle festival period), Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec 29-Jan 3), during exhibition changes

The Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is an important festival in Japan, and you can learn all about it at the Kishiwada Danjiri Kaikan! The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival began in the middle of the Edo Period, boasting 300 years of tradition. This festival is still held annually in the fall (September/October), and attracts nearly 600,000 spectators from all over Japan. The origin of this festival is said to have been to pray for a good harvest and to ward off plague.

Inside the building are reproductions of old townscapes , and displays of some of the oldest objects, happi coats, and ancient documents related to danjiri. You can also experience what it's like to be the Daikugata, the person who performs on top of the danjiri, play the taiko drums, and learn all kinds of things from the video displays.

It is about 7 minutes on foot from Takojizo Station on the Nankai Electric Railway/Nankai Line. Whether you want to experience Japanese culture or just enjoy festivals, it is a worthwhile place to visit. As a measure against coronavirus, visitors are asked to disinfect hands with alcohol and wear a mask. Also, please note that the 'Nerimono Taiken (Sound Experience) Corner' has been discontinued. Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr

• Address 11-23 Honmachi, Kishiwada City, Osaka 596-0074
• Phone Number 072-436-0914

Hours: 10:00AM-5:00PM (Admission ends 4:00PM) Admission: Adults: 600 yen; Children (elementary/junior high): 300 yen (Prices include tax) Regular Holidays: Mondays (Public holidays; open during Castle Festival); Year-end and New Years Holiday (Dec. 29-Jan. 3)

• Address Various places in Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture, 596-0000 View Map
• Nearest Station Kishiwada Station （Nankai Airport Line / Nankai Line）
• Phone Number 072-423-9486

Mount Izumi Katsuragi is the central mountain of the Izumi Mountains , lying at the prefectural border between Kishiwa City and Kaizuka City in Osaka Prefecture , and Kinokawa City in Wakayama Prefecture. At an altitude of 858m, the beech forests at the summit are designated as National Natural Monuments.

There are several hiking courses available here. Hike along the trails while enjoying 'shinrin-yoku,' or forest bathing. There is also the Ushitakisan Daiitoku-ji Temple , a popular spot known for its autumn colors. At the top of the mountain , there are two shrines called Hachidai-ryuo, and an observatory where you can view the foothills of Kinokawa City and the Osaka Plains. The clear, starry sky at night is recommended for stargazing.

Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr 30 min ・If you are new to the area, we recommend getting there by taking the Nankai Wing Bus South from Kishiwada Station on the Nankai Electric Railway/Nankai Line to the Ushitakisan Bus Stop.

• Address Osawacho, Kishiwada City, Osaka, 596-0114

Phone: 072‐423‐9486 (Kishiwada City Tourism and Promotion Division) Free Entry

If you love exploring old towns , this is one of those day trips from Osaka that's for you! Tondabayashi Jinai-machi is a town that still retains its old buildings and townscapes from the Edo Period and early Showa Period. It is the only important traditional architectural preservation district in Osaka Prefecture .

The origin of Tondabayashi Jinai-machi dates back to the Middle Ages of the Sengoku Period (c.1558-1560). A Buddhist temple was established, and soon, so was a religious autonomous city centered around that temple . Afterward, it flourished as a commercial city.

Recently, the number of shops that have been established in these old townhouses, such as cafes , restaurants, bookstores, general stores, and workshops, has been increasing. Enjoy dining and shopping as if you had stepped back in time! Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr 7 min ・Tondabayashi Jinai-machi is about 10 minutes on foot from Tondabayashi Station on the Kintetsu-Nagano Line.

• Address Tondabayashi-cho, Tondabayashi City, Osaka 584-0033

Hours: Varies by facility Admission: Varies by facility Regular Holidays: Varies by facility (Jinaimachi Exchange Center closed Mondays and for New Years Holidays)

Rinku Park is a vast seaside park on the opposite bank of Kansai International Airport . On the seaside is Marble Beach, a white sandy beach where you can watch the planes fly in and out from the airport , and see views of Osaka Bay, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and Awaji Island , on a clear day. Shiki-no-Izumi is a symbolic fountain of the park , and is beautifully illuminated at night. The 'LOVE RINKU' statue nearby is also popularly known as the "sacred place for lovers."

The beautiful sunset and nighttime views make this the perfect spot for a date... or even a proposal! If there is someone special in your life, this is one place you will want to bring them. As measures against coronavirus, visitors are asked to frequently and thoroughly wash hands, as well as register with the Osaka Covid-19 Tracing System. Free use of the Utsumi Sunaba play area is also suspended until further notice. Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr 10 min ・Rinku Park is about 3 minutes on foot northwest of Rinku Town Station on the Nankai Airport and JR Kansai Airport lines.

• Address 1-271 Rinku Orai Kita, Izumisano City, Osaka 598-0048
• Nearest Station Rinku Town Station
• Phone Number 072-469-7717

These grand burial mounds, located in the Mozu Area in Sakai City, and the Furuichi Area in Fujiidera and Habikino City, were registered as World Heritage Sites in July of 2019. From the latter half of the 4th century to the latter half of the 6th century, over 200 burial mounds were built in these areas.

The Mozu area is one of the 3 greatest tombs in the world, and includes Japan's zempo-koen-fun (keyhole-shaped mounds), the Mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku, the Kamiishizu Misanzai Tomb of Emperor Richu, the Itasuke Tombs, the Gobyoyama Tombs, and the Mausoleum of Emperor Hanzei.

In the Furuichi area, you can visit the Mausoleum of Emperor Ojin, the Mausoleum of Emperor Chuai, and the Mausoleum of Emperor Ingyo. Each of these burial mounds are important sites of ancient Japan. There are also many parks , shrines , and temples around, so it is a great place to visit, whether you enjoy history or hiking! Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 45 min ・The closest station to the Mozu area is Mozu Station on the JR West/Hanwa Line. For the Furuichi area, you can use either Hajinosato Station or Furuichi Station on the Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line.

• Address Daisen Town, Sakai Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, 590-0035 View Map
• Nearest Station Mikunigaoka Station （Nankai-koya Line） 10 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 072-955-1115

Boken no Mori in NOSE is one of the largest forest adventure parks in Japan, with 78 types of treetop activities set up over a vast site of 90,000 square meters in size (that's nearly 2 Tokyo Domes!), all of which were constructed by forestry engineers.

There are many athletic activities, such as the Tree Top Adventure, where you can walk on wires high in the trees, and the Mega Zipline Teppen, where you can glide over the pond strapped to a harness.

One of their programs lets you take an off-road ride in the forest on a Segway, which adults and children alike can enjoy (age restrictions may apply by activity). At night, live a completely different experience camping out and relaxing underneath the starry sky. Make your great adventure last all day (and night) long! Disinfectant and hand sanitizer are available as a measure against coronavirus. Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 1 hr 45 min ・Take the Takarazuka Main Line to Yamashita Station; from there, board a Hankyu Bus bound for Nosemachi-Sukuno bound bus, and get off at Nosemachi-Sukuno - the final stop. Boken no Mori in NOSE is about 60 minutes away on foot.

• Address 437-1 Shukuno, Nose-cho, Nose-gun, Osaka 563-0341
• Phone Number 090-4643-4010

Hours: Weekdays: 10:0AM-5:00PM (Reception ends 3:00PM); Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays: 900AM-5:00PM (Reception ends 3:00PM) Admission (per person): Adventure Course: 3.500 yen; Challenge Course: 2,000 yen; Forest Segway Tour: 3,000 yen; Set Plan (includes Adventure Course + Forest Segway Tour): 6,000 yen (All prices include tax) *Advanced reservations are required Regular Holiday: Irregular Days Website: https://www.bouken.co.jp/

Finally, if you are willing to travel a little further, there is one more place you can visit, located in Wakayama Prefecture. Mount Koya is a sacred place in Japanese Buddhism, with a Shugen Dojo opened by the Buddhist monk, Kobo-Daishi Kukai, in the 9th century. However, while Mount Koya is indeed an important place in religion, it is also popular as a tourist destination.

There are a number of famous spots in Mount Koya, including the main temple , Kongobuji Temple , Okunoin, a designated historical site, Danjo-Garan, and the Tokugawa Clan Mausoleum, an important cultural property where the generals of the Edo Period, Tokugawa Ieyasu and Tokugawa Hidetada, were entombed. You can even visit the priests quarters on a day trip, and enjoy shojin-ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), and experience Buddhist meditation practices called Ajikan.

Access ・Time from Osaka ( Umeda ): 2 hr ・From Osaka Station , take the Osaka Loop Line to Shin-Imamiya Station; transfer to the Nankai Limited Express and transfer at Hashimoto Station to the Nakai-Koya Line. From there, take the Nankai-Koya Line to the final stop, Gokurakubashi. While you can get to Mount Koya by cable car from Gokurakubashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line, we also recommend trying out the hiking course!

• Address 600, Kouyasan, Kouya-cho, Wakayama, 647-0006 View Map
• Nearest Station Koyasan Station （Nankai Koyasan Cable）
• Phone Number 0736-56-2616

Who knew there were so many cool spots to enjoy day trips from Osaka? Whether you want to experience culture, get lost in nature , or just get out and move, one of these 11 sightseeing spots is bound to spark your interest! However, a final word of caution: please remember that we must still be careful to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Be cautious when going on a day trip (or anywhere!), and always follow the rules and health guidelines! *This article was originally published in August 2020. Details may have changed since this time. *Business hours are subject to change depending on the spread of Covid-19.

• Area Osaka Suburbs
• Category Other Activities

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• Destinations

11 Best Day Trips from Osaka

Best Day Trips and Tours from Osaka: Kyoto, Kobe, Hiroshima and more

Osaka is the capital city of Western Japan, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. Osaka fascinates millions of visitors from Japan and abroad by countless attractions such as local food like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki, the bustling streets of Dotonbori area and the world famous theme park, Universal Studios Japan.

While Osaka offers the modern and vibrant city’s atmosphere, various different kinds of attractions can be enjoyed in other cities of Western Japan including Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, etc. There are several great neighbouring cities which you can access easily from Osaka within one day. If you are planning to visit Osaka, I’d highly recommend you to take a day trip to explore Western Japan in depth. In this article, I have listed some of the most amazing activities and day trips from Osaka!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

Before starting, when you travel around Kansai area, it’s highly recommended to purchase “ JR West Kansai Area Pass ” which allow you to travel multiple cities by local trains and bus, including the Kansai Airport express “HARUKA”. This ticket is only sold for foreign visitors, so take a benefit to travel comfortably and save money!

<< JR-West Kansai Area Pass available HERE! >>

1. kyoto fushimi inari taisha shrine.

Kyoto is arguably one of the most attractive cities on the planet. The ancient capital city is full of historic wonders, notable landmarks and the beautiful nature that everyone should see once in a lifetime. Although Kyoto is recommended to spend for a couple days at least, you can visit there easily from Osaka (it takes only 30 mins by train!).

More info about Kyoto:  Top Things to Do in Kyoto : Kyoto Bucket List

Even for a short time visit to Kyoto, there are a few must-visit sightseeing spots which every first-time visitor shouldn’t miss out, and one of them is Fushimi Inarin Taisha Shrine . The shrine is best known for its iconic tunnel formed by countless vermilion torii gates, and it’s one of the most photographed places in Japan.

It could be very crowded by tourists during the day, but there are also some hidden paths which are usually unknown among tourists and you can feel the peaceful and serine atmosphere. “ Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour ” is a perfect day-tour introducing you the off-the-beaten-trail in the shrine away from the mass crowds, see the real beauty of Kyoto and take amazing photos. The tour is held twice daily so please check out the link below for availability!

If you are planning to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, there is another recommended place to visit nearby, Fushimi Sake District, one of the leading Sake producing areas in Japan and it’s home to about 40 Sake breweries. You can visit some of Sake breweries, taste delicious locally brewed Sake and stroll down the charming and traditional neighbourhood. “ Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Tour in Fushimi ” is one of the most day-tours in Kyoto, offering an ultimate Sake experience for guests! Check out the attached link below for more

2. Kyoto Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a very attractive and pleasant area in western outskirt of Kyoto, and it’s recommended to visit every first-time visitors to Kyoto. The area is surrounded by mountains, offering a beautiful landscape with rich nature in each season, and it’s also home to numbers of historic landmarks and monuments including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

More info about Arashiyama:  Kyoto Arashiyama and Sagano : 10 Best Things to Do

If you are planning to visit Arashiyama area with a limited time, it’s highly recommended to take a guided tour as you can see the best highlights of the area efficiently and learn the history and culture in depth. “ Kyoto Arashiyama Insider Walking Tour ” is a 4-hour walking tour introducing some of the most important sightseeing spots in Arashiyama area including the Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryuji Temple. The tour also includes delicious and authentic Kyoto style cuisine for lunch! Click the link below for more details about the tour!

3. Kyoto’s Hidden Treasures: Amanohashidate, Ine no Funaya & Miyama

While Kyoto is hugely known for its well preserved historic sites, there are also many tourist attractions outside of the city, which are lesser known and not as crowded as shrines and temples. If you have already visited famous historic landmarks of Kyoto, how about exploring the hidden gems of the city?

“ Miyana Village, Ine Bay Cruise & Amanohashidate Tour ” is a highly recommended bus tour from Osaka as it takes you to three most attractive spots in northern Kyoto. Amanohashidate is the sandbar in Miyazu Bay, which is counted as one of the three greatest scenic sites besides. Ine no Funaya is the unique waterfront village known as the Venice of Japan. Lastly, you’ll visit the mountain village of Miyama where you can capture the unspoilt rustic countryside scenery with thatched houses and the mountain.

Recommended tour ▶ Miyama Thatched Village, Ine Bay & Amanohashidate Tour from Osaka

4. Nara

Along with Osaka and Kyoto, Nara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Western Japan. The city is known as the ancient capital of Japan “Heijo-kyo” back in 710 before it moved to “Heian-kyo” (Kyoto) in 794, and there are numbers of well-preserved historic monuments in modern Nara today.

More info about Nara: Nara : Best Things to Do

Nara can be accessed from Osaka within 1 hour, and it is possible to see the highlights and fully enjoy the city in one day. “ Nara Half Day Trip Waking Tour ” is a half-day tour which allows you to explore the best bits of historical capital efficiently including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, adorable deer and local hidden spots, and also learn about the deep history and culture of Nara with an English-speaking local guide. The tour also includes delicious lunch served with local ingredients! Check out the link below for more details and make a reservation on your wished date!

5. Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is one of the most important and impressively structured castles in Japan. It’s located in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. Because of its beautiful and elegant appearance of the white exterior, the castle is often called “White Egret Castle” or “White Heron Castle”. Himeji Castle is one of first two sites in Japan designated to UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1993 along with Horyuji Temple in Nara Prefecture.

More info:  Himeji Castle: The only UNESCO World Heritage castle in Japan

Himeji Castle is one of the must-visit sightseeing spots in Western Japan, and can be accessed from central Osaka in about 80 mins. When visiting Himeji Castle, I’d highly recommend you to take a guided tour because there are a lot of important and fascinating facts and history about this castle. With “ Himeji Castle Half Day Walking Tour “, you can enter inside the castle with an expert guide, visit the observatory to enjoy the overlook view of the castle, walk around the castle and stop by taking photos of the castle. The tour also includes an exclusive traditional tea ceremony experience. Immerse yourself into the deep culture and history of Japan at the majestic castle!

Kobe is a port city in Hyogo Prefecture, and it’s Japan’s important foreign trade city since the mid 19th century along with Yokohama and Nagasaki City. The city has developed its own distinctive city culture mixed with Asian and Western culture due to the international trading history, and offers numbers of unique and attractive tourist sites including the modern harbour city view, the magnificent Mt. Rokko and the historical Sake brewery. Also a lot of visitors to Kobe aim to taste Kobe Beef , the world famous local Wagyu brand.

More info about Kobe:  Kobe: Best Things to Do

If you are visiting Western Japan, it’s definitely worth spending some time in Kobe, and in fact, Kobe is only 30 mins away from Osaka by bullet train so it’s an ideal destination for a day trip. You can take a private tour to see around Kobe efficiently, and explore the history and culture of Kobe deeper with a local guide!

7. Koshien Stadium

Hanshin Tigers is a Japanese professional baseball team which is based in Nishinomiya city (near Kobe), Hyogo Prefecture. Their home stadium is Koshien Stadium where numbers of baseball games are held during the season. Hanshin Tigers has a lot of fans in Osaka, and it’s known for having the most fanatical and supportive fans. Watching a baseball game with enthusiastic fans would be a great experience and an unique way to learn Japanese culture!

8. Hiroshima Peace Memorial

Hiroshima is one of the most popular cities to visit in Japan, offering full of fascinating tourist attractions including the rich history, unique culture, attractive landmarks and delicious local food including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and A-Bomb Dome , the tragic memories from the World War Ⅱ, and Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island , one of the most important and beautiful shrines in Japan famous for the floating torii gate.

More info about Hiroshima:  Hiroshima : Best Things to Do

Hiroshima is about 300km west of Osaka City, and it takes about 2 hours by Shinkanse, which is slightly distanced yet a day-trip is still manageable. To see the best bits of Hiroshima efficiently, a private day trip tour is highly recommended! You can see all the best things in Hiroshima and learn the deep history about the city with an expert local guide in English. “ Hiroshima Peace (Heiwa) Walking Tour ” offers visitors an amazing historical experience in Hiroshima City by visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial (A-Bomb Dome, museum and park) and some hidden historic spots which are lesser known among tourists. It’s a small group tour, so you will surely learn and have deeper understanding about the history and culture of Hiroshima! The tour is held daily, so check the availability on the attached link below!

9. Hiroshima Miyajima Island

Along with the memorials in Hiroshima City, Miyajima Island is also a must-visit site for every first-time visitors in Hiroshima Prefecture. The island is home to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Itsukushima Shrine, one of the most important and sacred shrines in Japan. The shrine is best known for its symbolic gigantic torii gate often called “the floating torii gate” and it’s one of the most popular photo spots in Japan. Besides Itsukushima Shrine, there are several tourist attractions on the island including adorable deer, shopping street, pleasant nature and other historic monuments. It’s very much worth spending an entire day on the island.

More info: Miyajima Island Hiroshima : Best Things to Do

Miyajima Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan today, and it’s usually pretty crowded by both Japanese and foreign tourists. If you wish to explore the island not only the famous Itsukushima Shrine but also some hidden spots/routes which most of the tourists don’t know or go, I’d highly recommend you to join this “ Miyajima 1-Day Hidden Hiking Tour ” offering an unique and unforgettable Miyajima Island experience. The tour includes visits to Itsukushima Shrine and some of recommended tourist sites on the island, and a pleasant hike on Mt Misen, the tallest mountain on the island. Enjoy hiking through the beautiful nature and watching the panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea from the summit of the mountain. Click the link below for more details about the tour!

10. Naoshima

Naoshima is an unique touristy island of Kagawa Prefecture in the Seto Inland Sea. It’s often called “the Art Island” as the island is home to multiple art facilities such as modern art museums and architecture including Benesse art museum, Chichu art museum, Lee Ufan museum, and the queen of Pop art, Yayoi Kusama’s famous Yellow Pumpkin is one of the icons on Naoshima Island.

This small island can be explored within a day easily, and you will encounter a lot of arty surprises while exploring the island. Naoshima is situated about 200 km southwest of Osaka, and need to be accessed by local trains and ferry which takes 3 to 4 hours, but this day-trip tour including a direct bus from Osaka to the ferry port to Naoshima Island including a round trip! Choose a stress-free day trip to Naoshima Island and immerse yourself in unique arts!

11. Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle is one of the great spots to visit in Wakayama from Osaka while the prefecture is more known for the sacred mountain Koyasan (Mt.Koya). The current castle was rebuilt in 1958 while the castle that had been originally founded in 1585 was destroyed after a lightning struck and an air raid. In Wakayama City, where Wakayama Castle is located in the center, there are a lot of less-known attractions such as a serene traditional Yosuien Garden, a historical Negoroji Temple and a scenic Wakanoura Port Town. It takes only an hour to get there from Osaka by train. Here is a 2-day itinerary in Wakayama City below.

Book Shinkansen Tickets HERE: ▶  From Tokyo to Osaka ▶  From Osaka to Kyoto ▶ From Osaka to Hiroshima

Thank you very much for reading! If you are planning to travel around Western Japan from Osaka, these cities are highly recommended to visit as each one offers unique and one-and-only tourist attractions! For more information about travelling in Osaka and Western Japan, here are some more articles for your to check out!

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Travel Information

7 amazing day trips from osaka japan.

If you’re looking for a true taste of Japan, Osaka is a great place to start your trip, because of its proximity to other Japanese cities you should visit. Osaka is the second largest metropolitan city in Japan after Tokyo and it is a transportation hub, making it the perfect base for visiting this region of Japan.

While there are a million sights, restaurants, temples and markets to see [read about it all in our 2-day Osaka itinerary ], once you’ve completed the must-sees in Osaka, you’ll want to venture out into the countryside nearby to see everything else the region has to offer on a few days trips from Osaka.

The convenient train lines can get you to anywhere you want to go from Osaka with ease. If you have a Japan Rail Pass , nearly all of the connections you need to make are included, so there’s no need to worry about transportation. See below for information on how to get to each of these destinations from Osaka.

Planning your trip to Osaka?

Make sure to purchase your Japan Rail Pass in advance! Consider grabbing an Osaka Amazing Pass for unlimited subway and bus rides

Where to Stay in Osaka See all hotel options

• Intercontinental Osaka – 5-star luxury hotel close to Umeda Sky Building and Osaka Castle
• Conrad Osaka – 5-star luxury hotel near Kyocera Dome Osaka
• Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka Station – 4-star hotel with 2 on-site restaurants

Best Tours and Experiences in Osaka:

• Osaka Food Tour – 10 delicious dishes at 5 hidden eateries
• Osaka Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide – See it all on this private tour
• Osaka Bar Hopping Night Walking Tour in Namba – a great way to see this part of the city

Table of Contents

Map of Hotels in Osaka

Japan itineraries.

If you have longer to spend in Japan, you can expand this itinerary to any length you wish.

• We have a 7-day itinerary and a 2-week Japan itinerary so you can choose which length of trip suits you best.
• If you will only be visiting Tokyo, here’s a shortened 3-day itinerary for Tokyo .
• Want to add more days outside of Tokyo? Here’s a 3-day Kyoto itinerary and a 2-day Osaka itinerary .

Need a Japan Rail Pass? The Japan rail pass is a virtually all-you-can-use travel pass that  tourists can buy for a specific duration (7, 14 or 21 days). You can use it on pretty much any train, at any time, without the hassle of purchasing tickets in advance.  ★ If you’re ready to buy your pass, you can get them quickly and easily from this website .

Day Trips to Take From Osaka

Kyoto was initially the capital city of Japan before the court was relocated to Tokyo . It is known for being the birthplace of tofu, and it is a mainly vegetarian city, though you can find just about any Japanese food specialty that you want in Kyoto.

It’s often referred to ask Japan’s kitchen. Kyoto is also known for its Buddhist temples and shrines. The city is absolutely packed with them. If you plan to make a day of seeing the temples, be prepared with a map and a good pair of walking shoes. It snows regularly from December through March. The most comfortable months to visit include October, November, April, and May.

» To start planning your time in Kyoto, use our 3-day itinerary . If you’d rather go to Kyoto on a guided tour, here are two you can book on Viator . It includes Fushimi Inari Temple and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, and Arashiyama.

How to get to Kyoto

To get to Kyoto from Osaka, you need to use the bullet train and go from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station. It takes approximately half an hour to get there. It is advisable to have the JR Rail Pass with you before you visit Japan. You can always purchase it before your trip.

This is what you will use as your ticket when boarding the train. You can also use the Shinkansen train that takes 15 minutes, but you will not be able to see much on your way.

Just like many cities surrounding Osaka, this was once a capital of Japan. Nara is popular for deer that are known to move freely near the temple. It is believed that the deer are spiritual and people from all over the world bow to the deer and they bow back.

There are hundreds of deer in the park, and you are allowed to feed them. You can buy some biscuits onsite. However, be careful of your belongings because they might snatch them from you. You can also take some time to visit the temples that have a lot of historical artifacts.

Nara is also a great place to find cherry blossoms in the spring.

How to Get to Nara

You will be required to use rail to go from Osaka to Nara. The journey takes around 30-50 minutes depending which train you get on. For the fastest option, go from Namba Station, take the Rapid-Express Kintetsu-Nara train to Shin-Ōmiya Station, then walk to the center of the city or to the deer park in 10 minutes.

If using the JR pass, take the Midosuji line to Tennōji Station, then the JR Yamatoji Line to Nara station.

Kobe is a small city, but it is very modern. You will notice the modern architecture of the harbor that has incorporated a lot of newer technology. Take time to explore local foods and also see the museum of tools.

You can also check out Akashi Kaikyo Bridge that is known to be one of the tallest bridges in Japan. It is a spectacular architectural structure. Be sure to stop for lunch or dinner at one of the many Kobe beef restaurants. We went to Ishida (a local chain) and it was one of the best meals we had in Japan, and that’s saying a lot. Read about our tasty meal here .

One of my favorite things to do in Kobe is visit the sake breweries that are very nearby in Nada. You’ll need to take the train to Sumiyoshi Station, then walk about 15 minutes to the breweries.

They are scattered all within about a mile of each other. You can just pop into many of them  without an appointment to do a tasting, browse their shops, and sometimes even go through a museum. Start your day at the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum .

How to Get To Kobe

The safest and the easiest way to get to Kobe is using the JR pass. It is also fast, as the trip takes an average of 10 minutes. For this method, you need to purchase a JR pass in advance(this is less costly than purchasing on site). The train will take you up to Shin-Kobe Station.

Kurashiki is an old Japanese town that is located right on the Takahashi River. It is a canal city, so you can expect to see many narrow boats floating through the canals that are lined with beautiful willow trees. This smaller city is ideal for people who want to experience the Japanese culture in its purest form.

This is not a popular city among tourists, so you are likely to find more locals than visitors here. The highlight of this city is the Ohara museum . However, you will also love the little wooden houses that illustrate Japanese architectural practices of the past.

Walking around the scenic streets is the best way to sightsee. It is very different from the major Japanese cities but still has an extremely rich culture.

How To Get To Kurashiki

You will use Sanyo Shinkansen to go to Kurashiki. Take a train from Shin-Osaka Station to go to Okayama station. The trip will take anywhere from 50 to 70 minutes. The length of your trip will depend on the type of train that you will be using. You can always check the timetable to know the ideal time to leave.

Himeji Castle

The city of Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the castle is the major highlight here. It is a great architectural design that people from all over the world come to see. Even viewing the photo above will show you why it’s at the top of everyone’s must visit list. The castle itself is simply gorgeous.

Not only is the castle grandiose, it is also legendary, as one of only a few castles in Japan that hasn’t been structurally affected by war, earthquakes or other natural disasters. It’s an original. The castle and its grounds are enormous. You can get into the outer area where some great photos of the castle can be taken for free, but if you want to go inside you will pay at the Hishi Gate.

Tickets cost 1000 yen. The castle is open from 9am-5pm (6pm in summer). Many people visit Himeji for the castle, but if you get the time you can go to the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge to see the city from afar. If you happen to extend your stay, you can also take a bus and go to Mt. Shosha for some adventure and sightseeing.

How to Get to Himeji

To get to Himeji, you will use the Shinkansen line. You will take the train Shin-Osaka Station, and the trip usually takes about 30 minutes.

Universal Studios Japan

If you’ve been to Universal Studios in the United States, this one in Osaka will feel like home. This theme park is one of six Universal Studios parks in the world; and while it might seem a little strange to be going on the same rides in Japan, it’s just as fun and maybe even a bit more quirky.

You’ll even get to know a few Japanese characters and movies. Jurassic World is an extremely popular attraction, and you will get the ride of your life here. There are also shows that take place every day, and it is a good place to explore. Fans of Harry Potter will surely be excited to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

It beautifully recreates the buildings and scenery from the Harry Potter movies and is full of equally thrilling rides. You’ll need to purchase a Studio Pass to get into the park and to enjoy the rides and attractions.

A one-day pass is 8,200 yen (around $72.50 USD). You can also purchase a Universal Express Pass for three to seven of the park’s top rides. This pass costs extra, but will help you get into these attractions faster.

How To Get to Universal Studios

This is the shortest distance from Osaka. It takes an average of 12 minutes. From Namba Station take the Hanshin-Namba Line to Nishikujo Station where you have to transfer to the JR Sakurajima Line.

Hiroshima is most widely known for it’s devastating history. Many people remember it for the atomic bomb that completely leveled the city. Thus, the most popular attraction is Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Since your visit is likely aimed at this park, you can read all the useful information you need for your visit on this site .

Apart from the park, you can also visit the castle. The beautiful Hiroshima castle was made using wood, and it is a beauty to behold. You can also explore the gardens and walk through the museum.

Another interesting sight for visitors is Miyajima (also called Itsukushima) which is pictured above. Miyajima is a tiny island near Hiroshima that you can take a ferry ride to, from where you can see the Great Torii Gate, which is also referred to as the Floating Shrine.

Hiroshima is a modern city, with all the amenities you could need as a tourist. Be sure to save some time for shopping and eating. Okonomiyaki is the local specialty, and it’s really fun to watch them make it on the grill in front of you.

» If you’d rather visit these areas on a guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide, here’s a tour you can book that goes to Hiroshima and Mjyajima.

How To Get To Hiroshima

The Sakura Line from Shin-Osaka Station will take you to Hiroshima station. It will take approximately one hour and a half to get there. In case you want to save cost, you might want to combine the trip with going to Miyajima. You will get a free ride when going to Miyajima.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 2 days enough for osaka.

With 2 days in Osaka, you can get a good taste of the city’s highlights. This is a good option if you have limited time but want to experience Osaka’s culture and attractions. However, you might consider extending your stay to explore more of what the city has to offer

How many days are required in Osaka?

With 2-3 days in Osaka, you can get a good taste of the city’s highlights, including exploring popular neighborhoods like Dotonbori and Umeda, visiting iconic sites such as Osaka Castle and Shitenno-ji Temple, and enjoying the vibrant food scene. If you have more time, you can delve deeper into Osaka’s offerings in 4 – 5 days. You can explore additional neighborhoods like Tennoji and Shinsekai, visit museums and art galleries, take leisurely strolls in parks, and experience the city’s nightlife in more detail. You can also consider taking day trips to nearby places like Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe. For travelers who want to thoroughly explore Osaka, experience its cultural events, and take multiple-day trips to the surrounding areas, a week or more can be a rewarding duration.

Is Osaka more fun than Kyoto?

Osaka may be more fun if you’re interested in modern urban experiences, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re drawn to traditional culture, historical sites, and serene gardens, Kyoto might be your preference.

Is Osaka cheaper than Tokyo travel?

Osaka is generally considered more budget-friendly than Tokyo, both cities have options for travelers with different budget levels. Your overall travel expenses will depend on your choices, such as where you stay, where you dine, and what activities you pursue. Planning ahead, setting a budget, and making informed choices can help you manage your travel expenses in either city.

Guided Tours of Japan

The tour company we recommend, Japan and More , offers fully escorted, small group and private tours of Japan. The company is run by Japan travel specialists, Becki and Shawn, who have over 20 years of experience living, working, and traveling in Japan. They know where to go, what to see, and how to get there. 

They are Americans who know Japan, understand Japanese culture, and speak the language. They take care of every detail. Their group tours book fast! There is limited availability, so it’s best to secure your place as soon as possible. The cost of the tour includes all accommodations, transportation, entrance fees, some meals, and pre-departure help and advice.

During your stay in this amazing city, be sure to build in time to take some of these great day trips from Osaka. These beautiful destinations are all in close proximity. Since most of these locations are accessible by train, your trip will be easy and convenient.

More Reading

• How to Spend 2 Days in Osaka
• The Perfect 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary
• Planning a 7-Day Japan Trip

10 Best Cities to Visit in Japan

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How to Spend 2 Days in Osaka Japan

The Perfect Japan 2 Week Itinerary: 10-14 Days in Japan

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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