6 Best Day Trips from Osaka or Kyoto: Easy Kansai Escapes You Can’t Miss

Staying in Osaka or Kyoto? You’re perfectly based to explore the gems of the Kansai region without having to pack and move.
From sacred temples to charming towns and onsen retreats, here are 6 unforgettable day trips you can do in just one day thanks to Japan’s amazing train system.

1. Kobe 🏙️🍖

Just 30 minutes from Osaka, Kobe blends modern city vibes with mountain views and historical charm.

Must-sees:

• Kobe Harborland: Perfect for a walk by the sea, dining, and shopping with a view.

• Nunobiki Herb Garden: Take the ropeway for panoramic views and relaxing garden strolls.

• Ikuta Shrine: One of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan—serene and tucked into the city.

👉 Bonus: Try the famous Kobe beef while you're there!

2. Nara 🦌🛕

A classic—and for good reason. Only 45 minutes from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara is packed with history (and deer).

Must-sees:

• Todai-ji Temple: See the giant Daibutsu (Great Buddha) in this iconic UNESCO site.

• Nara Park: Meet the friendly deer (just don’t tease them with crackers 😅).

• Kasuga-taisha Shrine: Known for its mystical lanterns and peaceful atmosphere.

• Horyu-ji Temple: One of the oldest wooden structures in the world.

3. Omihachiman 🏘️🚣‍♂️

Off the radar for many tourists, this traditional town is a gem near Lake Biwa.

Must-sees:

• Hachiman-bori Canal: Take a boat ride and feel like you’re in a samurai movie.

• Mt. Hachiman Ropeway: Gorgeous views of Japan’s largest lake.

• La Collina Omihachiman: A surreal, grass-roofed bakery and design wonder.

• Old Town Streets: Discover handmade crafts and preserved Edo-era buildings.

4. Kurama 🏞️♨️

Need a break from the crowds in Kyoto? Head to Kurama, a peaceful mountain village.

Must-sees:

• Kurama-dera Temple: Reach it via a forest hike or funicular. Views = worth it.

• Kurama Onsen: Soak in an outdoor hot spring surrounded by trees.

• Yuki Shrine: Famous for its fire festival—small but full of spirit.

⏱️ Only 30 minutes from Kyoto = perfect half-day escape.

5. Mount Koya (Kōyasan) 🧘🌲

Want a spiritual reset? Mount Koya is the heart of Shingon Buddhism, about 2 hours away.

Must-sees:

• Okunoin Cemetery: A vast, magical forest full of moss-covered graves.

• Kongobu-ji Temple: The main temple, with beautiful Zen gardens.

• Danjo Garan: A sacred precinct of pagodas and silence.

🛏️ If you can: Stay overnight in a shukubo (temple lodging) for a vegetarian monk meal + morning prayer.

6. Arima Onsen ♨️🛍️

One of Japan’s oldest onsen towns, tucked in the mountains near Kobe.

Must-sees:

• Kin no Yu & Gin no Yu: Public bathhouses with unique golden and silver hot springs.

• Arima streets: Stroll through traditional alleys, shop for local snacks, and sip hot spring water at the source.

🚆 Quick day trip from Osaka or Kobe, and perfect year-round.