The 8 Best Day Trips from Kyoto Under 2 Hours

Kyoto is a beautiful city full of temples and shrines, which can be appreciated in 2 to 3 days. As the capital of the Kyoto prefecture, Kyoto is perfectly situated for day trips around the prefecture and to other Japanese destinations – including the famous Osaka and Nara. If you’re in Kyoto, you simply must go on one of these best and/or unusual day trips!

With contributions from fellow travelers, the day trips below offer something for everyone – ranging from the nature to tea lovers, city night lovers and so forth. This list includes not only the best day trips from Kyoto, but some unusual day trips from Kyoto – aka, hidden gems.

Without further ado, here are the best day trips from Kyoto! Keep reading to discover the perfect one for you.😍

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Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Kyoto

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Arashiyama

Best Affordable Stays in Arashiyama

A densely packed bamboo grove with tall, slim green bamboo stalks stretching upwards toward the sky. The sunlight filters through the lush green leaves, casting a soft light throughout the grove—a serene escape that features on many lists of the best day trips from Kyoto.

No stay in Kyoto is complete without a day trip to the famous Arashiyama region of Japan.

Home to the renowned Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and many UNESCO World Heritage listed temples, this stunning part of the country combines the beauty of nature with spiritualism. You can also combine a day trip to Arashiyama with a visit to the beautiful Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, which is not far from here.

Getting to Arashiyama is easy from Kyoto. There are a few options, but my favourite is to take the quaint electric train, the Randen, from Shijo-Omiya Station and ride it all the way out to Arashiyama Station. A trip will take around 25 mins and you can buy a day pass for under 1000 JPY per person.

When you arrive at Arashiyama Station, the first stop on your list has to be the beautiful mossy gardens of the Tenryu-ji Buddhist temple. This temple has one of the most exquisite gardens and a lovely central pond that will have you feeling zen in no time.

Next, a wander through the famous Bamboo Forest is on the cards. As you stroll through the forest, try to listen to the whispers of the Bamboo. You’ll come across a small Shinto shrine in the grove called Nonomiya-Jinja. This shrine is a very cute stop along your travels and you’ll often see Japanese women in kimono purifying their hands at the temple.

Grab a bite from one of the many street vendors on your walk around the area before hopping back on the Randen to explore further.

Contributed by Emma Jane Explores

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Osaka

Best Affordable Stays in Osaka

A large whale shark swims gracefully in a blue-lit aquarium tank surrounded by various smaller fish. Coral and sand cover the tank's floor, and the backdrop shows the glass of the aquarium wall. This serene scene, reminiscent of one of the best day trips from Kyoto, captures the underwater environment perfectly.

Osaka is an icon and simply a must visit, when in Japan! This city actually causes many debates with Kyoto, “should I stay in Osaka or Kyoto“, or “which is better, Kyoto or Osaka”, and so forth.

Having gone through those debates myself, I quickly learned that Osaka and Kyoto are completely different and are both worth visiting. With that said, if you’re staying in Kyoto, a day trip to Osaka is a must.

Osaka Station is a quick 30 minute commute from Kyoto, and only costs around 580 yen, roughly $3.98. This Special Rapid train departs every 15 minutes from Kyoto Station.

Osaka is a big city full of great things to do, and is famous for it’s vibrant night scene. The most iconic thing to do in Osaka is visit Dotonbori. Dotonbori is the heart of Osaka and home to an incredibly rich food culture and the best shopping. From street food vendors to restaurants, this is where you live your wildest Japanese foodie dreams and experience Osaka’s true essence.

Another of the best things to do in Osaka, is the famous Universal Studios Japan – where you get to live your Super Mario Bros dreams! Here is everything you need to know about Super Nintendo World.

If you are a fan of aquariums, or are looking for indoor activities, Osaka’s aquarium is the perfect place to visit! The Kaiyukan Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in both the world and Japan, and is home to 2 whale sharks. The tickets start at 2,700 yen, roughly $ 19, and you can expect your visit to last between 2 to 3 hours.

Some other Osaka icons are the Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, and the Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda.

Travel to Osaka Hassle Free with this Best-Rated Tour!👇

This is the ultimate, hassle-free day trip! Getting into Osaka is very easy, but if you want to sit back and focus on simply enjoying the best of Osaka, this is the perfect private tour. This tour includes optional pickup and is wheelchair accessible. During this day-long tour, you will be guided through Osaka’s highlights – from Osaka Castle all the way to Dotonbori.

Being a private tour, you can customize it to your interests and you will travel in a luxury private vehicle. Book your private Osaka tour today!

Uji

Best Affordable Stays in Uji

One of the best day trips from Kyoto, this traditional Japanese temple boasts a symmetrical design reflected in a calm pond. Featuring red wooden structures with curved roofs and surrounded by lush greenery and trees, it offers a serene escape on a cloudy day.

On the outskirts of Kyoto, lies one of Japan’s oldest towns, Uji.

Uji is perfectly situated between Kyoto and Nara and makes for a great day trip from Kyoto or combined with a trip to Nara. Uji is most famous for the Byodo-in Temple, Ujigami Shrine, and Uji tea.

If staying in Kyoto, Uji is best reached by train. It’s just a few stops from Kyoto Station on the JR Nara Line. The train ride to Uji from Kyoto is only 17 minutes via the rapid train or just under 30 minutes on the local train. I feel you can easily spend a half day in Uji but it can also be combined with a trip to Nara, preferably in the late afternoon once the crowds die down.

Look at the back of the ¥10 and you’ll see the Byodo-in Temple. This is one of the prettiest temples in all of Japan. After touring the Byodo-in Temple, head to Ujigami Shrine. Ujigami Shrine is a UNSECO site and is known as Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine.

You can’t leave Uji without trying their famous matcha tea, it is some of the most prized in Japan. Many restaurants lining the main road sell match flavored dishes whether it be ramen or gyoza.

Contributed by Brandon from Zimmin Around the World

Nara

Best Affordable Stays in Nara

A tall, golden pagoda-like structure surrounded by lush greenery, seen from a pathway with a stone and wooden fence. The overcast sky and trees frame the scene, while the structure stands prominently in the center—truly one of the best day trips from Kyoto.

A group of people carries transparent umbrellas while walking toward a large, historic temple. The temple has intricate wooden architecture and a wide, sloping roof with golden ornaments at each end. The ground is wet from recent rain, and the overcast sky adds to the charm of one of the best day trips from Kyoto.

When you are a few days in Kyoto you shouldn’t miss a day trip to Nara.

Nara is just 40 km away and it can be reached in 45 min (or 70 min) by train from Kyoto station for 710 JPY.

This city, as the first permanent capital (710-794 AD), has great historical and cultural value for Japan, and is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today you can find many well-preserved ancient Buddhist and Shinto temples in beautiful park.

Among those, you shouldn’t miss Todai-ji, the biggest wooden building. The Todai-ji houses the world’s biggest bronze Budha statue, and the oldest Shinto shrine, Omiwa. It also houses the Kasuga Taisha, the shrine with thousands of lanterns, and the Kōfuku-ji 5-stories pagoda, which holds many national treasures.

Nara Park is famous also for its 1200 free wild sika, “sacred”, wandering deers. These deers bow to you when you feed them Shika-senbei rice bran crackers that cost 200 JPY (10 pcs). But be careful as these are still wild animals and it is not unusual that some tourists get some bits or kicks.

On the other hand, you are feeding them unnatural food for them and now they don’t eat grass anymore. So it is up to you to decide how will you proceed.

Contributed by Džangir of Dr Jam Travels

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This best-rated, Half-Day Nara Tour will bring you through Nara’s UNESCO World heritage sites, a hidden gem, Nara’s famous deer park, and a delicious local restaurant. This is the perfect tour if you want to take a break from following GPS directions, and simply want to focus on enjoying the city of Nara. Being only 4.5 hours, you will also have the rest of the day to do your own stuff!

This tour sells out quickly, book it before it sells out!

Kanazawa

Best Affordable Stays in Kanazawa

A bustling cobblestone street in a traditional Japanese town, lined with wooden buildings and red lanterns, presents one of the best day trips from Kyoto. Numerous people are walking, talking, and taking photos, while trees and greenery provide a picturesque backdrop under a cloudy sky.

A traditional Japanese castle is framed by branches of blooming cherry blossoms. The flowers are in soft pink hues, while the castle, with its distinctive architecture and tiled roof, stands majestically in the background against a clear sky—one of the best day trips from Kyoto.

If you want to visit a city rich in culture and Samurai history, or visit Japan’s most beautiful garden, Kanazawa is a must-visit!

Located in the Ishikawa Prefecture and only 2 hours away from Kyoto, Kanazawa is a fairly popular day trip. People usually visit for the famous Kenrokuen Garden and the incredible, Higashi Chaya District – but there is so much more!

The Kenrokuen Garden is one of the 3 Great Gardens of Japan and one of the most beautiful in the country. This garden dates back to the Edo period, and kept expanding throughout the centuries in which the Maeda family ruled. The entry ticket is only 320 yen, roughly $2.

Here is the Ultimate Guide to the Kenrokuen Garden!🌸

The Higashi Chaya District is Kanazawa’s largest teahouse / Geisha district, and is famous for keeping it’s original look. Dating back to the early 19th-century, this district makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in the Samurai times. Along with this teahouse district, you must also visit the Nagamachi Samurai District!

Two other best things to do in Kanazawa are visiting the 300-year-old Omicho Market, Kanazawa’s largest food market, and the Kanazawa Castle Park.

Kanazawa is the perfect to visit year round, and I strongly recommend the fall or spring if you want to experience a brilliant foliage or the dreamiest cherry blossoms.

This is one of the best day trips from Kyoto via train, and is really easy! The Kyoto Station to Kanazawa Station commute is covered by the JR Pass, if you have one. The commute is about 2 hours and costs around 7,500 yen, roughly $50.

Make the Most of Your Day Trip with this Kanazawa in One Day Itinerary!

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This best-rated Kanazawa Day Tour is a private and customizable tour lead by a local guide, who will share with you tips, and the city’s best kept-secrets. This tour is meant to feel like you’re meeting up with a friend and they are showing you around their city.

This tour sells out quickly – book it today before it sells out!

Himeji

Best Affordable Stays in Himeji

Himeji, located in the Hyogo Prefecture, is a popular destination to visit as a day trip from Kyoto.

The top reasons to visit Himeji are to see the beautifully preserved Himeji Castle and gardens and to go shopping.

I recommend starting at Himeji Castle. The castle’s white exterior and architecture are why it’s one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This attraction requires a few hours to explore the castle grounds and the castle. On my visit, the castle’s interior was empty and didn’t have any furniture. But walking through the long corridor was more interesting to see videos and photos of the castle’s restoration.

Next to Himeji Castle is the gorgeous Koko-en Garden. I had a lovely time walking around to see the seasonal flowers. Spring is an ideal time to see the cherry blossoms here.

There are a few covered shopping areas on the way to the castle. The shopping is mostly for locals, but there are plenty of food options to try.

Unfortunately, one day in Himeji is not enough time to try the local food. I tried to visit Menme restaurant for the udon, but it was closed. Instead, I ate at Spice Suehiro for the Indian fusion curry and it was delicious.

The easiest way to get here is by taking the Japan Railway (JR) local train or shinkansen. From Kyoto Station to Himeji Station, it takes 1.5 hours by local train or 50 minutes by shinkansen. I recommend using a JR Wide Area Pass or JR Kansai Area Pass for this route.

Contributed by Life Of Doing

Miyama

Best Stay in Miyama

A scenic view of a rural village nestled at the edge of a lush, green forest. Several traditional houses with tiled roofs and thatched roofs are scattered around the area. In the foreground, there is an open field with greenery and a narrow dirt path leading to one of the best day trips from Kyoto. — Photo Credits: © Leung Cho Pan on Canva

If you want to dive deeper in Kyoto’s village culture and experience a more serene atmosphere, Miyama is the perfect day trip and city-scape!

One of Miyama’s most iconic features is its thatched roofs, many of which are in the Kayakubi no Sato village. In a nearby village, within Miyama’s Ono District, you will even find the oldest, thatched farm house in ALL of Japan – the Ishida farm house. This is a 350+ year old farm house that became a Japan Heritage Cultural Property in May 1972.

Another great thing to do is, NOT listen to TLC… and go chase some waterfalls!😉 If you are a nature lover, Miyama is the perfect city-scape for you. Being in the mountains, you’ll be able to go on hikes, chase waterfalls (ex. Otodani Waterfall), or stroll around the stunning Ohno Dam park.🌸

This small village, along other great things to do and see, have several local businesses from which you can buy anything from local foods to local craft. There is truly no better souvenir or purchase than one that comes from, and supports, artisans.

Located within the Kyoto Prefecture, Miyama is only an 1.5 hours away from Kyoto City. To reach this village, you’ll go on the JR Hashidate or JR San-In line. If you’re traveling around Japan by car, then your commute will be one hour.

Wazuka

Best Affordable Stays in Wazuka

Rolling green tea plantations stretch across sloping hills under a clear blue sky. A small red building sits near the center, surrounded by meticulously organized rows of tea plants. Paths wind through the fields, offering a serene and picturesque landscape—one of the best day trips from Kyoto. — Photo Credits: © TokioMarineLife on Canva

If you are someone who loves tea and wants to dive deeper in Japan’s tea culture, Wazuka is your perfect day trip from Kyoto!

One of the best things to do in this small town is visit the Ishitera Fields, the tea plantation in which they grow the famous Uji tea. With over 800 years of history and cultivating, Wazuka is known as the home of Ujicha and is a Japan Heritage Site.

An obvious must do is drink tea and try the local foods of Wazuka, particularly the sweets made with local tea. A great cafe is d:matcha kyoto CAFE & KITCHEN, where they also offer lunch, tours, and experiences such as tea picking.

Another great thing to do is bike around Wazuka. You can rent bikes in several places, including Wazuka-Cha Cafe where you can also maps with biking and walking trails.

Located in the Kyoto Prefecture, Wazuka is slightly over an hour away from Kyoto City. There are different ways to reach Wazuka, and the fastest public transportation method will be via the Rapid or Express lines. If you want an even faster and smoother commute, renting a car is the best option!

This is one of the more unusual day trips from Kyoto, as Wazuka remains a hidden gem of a destination.

What to Know about Kyoto Day Trips + FAQs

Renting a Car in Kyoto

As long as you get your international drivers permit before arriving in Japan, you are allowed to drive and rent a car in Japan! Renting a car in Kyoto is fairly easy and affordable, and you can get the best rental car deals with Klook.

Something important to note is that in Japan, they drive on the left side!

Is Kyoto a good base for day trips?

Yes! Not only is Kyoto situated in the perfect spot that allows for day trips to Osaka, Nara, and so forth. Kyoto is also the capital of the Kyoto Prefecture, which is full of so many wonderful hidden gems worth exploring!

How many days in Kyoto is enough?

3 days in Kyoto city is enough time to see Kyoto’s main attractions, some hidden gems, and have a good pace. If you plan to do day trips, 4 to 5 days is the perfect amount.

Is 5 days too long in Kyoto?

It depends! Personally, 5 days in Kyoto city is a bit long. However, if you plan use it as a base for day trips around the Kyoto Prefecture, then it’s a great amount of days!

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A collage with four images promoting Kyoto day trips. Top-left shows a bamboo forest, top-right features an aquarium with fish, bottom-left has a close-up of a deer, and bottom-right depicts a temple with cherry blossoms. Text reads: "Best Kyoto Day Trips: Exploring Beyond the City.

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The 8 Best Day Trips from Kyoto Under 2 Hours