If you can manage to pry yourself away from the delicious cuisine in “the Kitchen of Japan,” which day trips from Osaka should you consider?
There’s no doubt that Osaka appears on the wish list of many first-time visitors to Japan. Naturally, the allure of street food, fantastic night life and laid-back vibe are a huge drawcard. But the shinkansen (bullet trains) make travelling to other destinations so tempting — and easy!
When piecing together an Osaka itinerary, it’s a great idea to allow some time to take advantage of this former samurai city’s prime location. As the gateway to the greater Kansai Region with efficient public transport, Osaka is an ideal base for further exploration throughout the area.
Considering their close proximity, this guide to the best Osaka day trips can also be undertaken as day trips from Kyoto if you prefer. Want to discover the best day trips from Osaka using JR Pass and interesting locations you may not have thought of to enrich your visit? Read on for more!
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TIP: This guide to places to visit from Osaka forms part of my detailed 3 days in Osaka itinerary, which is also part of my 2 weeks in Japan itinerary and larger 3 weeks in Japan itinerary. Head on over to my full Japan travel blog once you’re done here for more inspiration.
To contrast modern experiences such as the dizzying heights of Harukas Observatory 300 and Universal Studios Japan, I highly recommend Osaka day trips that include cities rich in history and tradition when planning a trip to Japan.
While I’ve visited quite a few of these Osaka day trip destinations myself, I’ve asked my fellow travel bloggers to share their experiences at places I have on my (seemingly endless) Japan bucket list. To make things easy for you I’ve sorted the destinations below by time to better help you plan your trip. Let’s go!
30 mins and under day trips from Osaka by train
KYOTO
- 15 minutes from Shin-Osaka on Nozomi Shinkansen, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Other trains on this line are covered by JR Pass
TIP: If you love uncovering history & culture, read my full guide to a 4 day Kyoto itinerary to spend longer here. Covering Kyoto in one day isn’t very realistic for most visitors, which makes it one of best long weekend trips from Osaka instead. Additionally, you can also stay in Kyoto and day trip to Osaka instead.
It could be argued that no visit to Japan would be complete without visiting one of the country’s ancient cities, Kyoto. As Japan’s former capital for over 1,000 years, this beautifully preserved city is bursting with history, culture and tradition.
If your time in Japan is extremely limited, an Osaka to Kyoto day trip is possible. However, I believe this is not the best day trip from Osaka as it comes with a warning that you’d only scratch the surface of this timeless beauty in one day.
While it may be an obvious choice to day trip to Kyoto from Osaka, it’s important to note the main attractions of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (avoid crowds on this Fushimi Inari hike), Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest are all quite spaced out from one another, meaning rushing around to see them all in a single day will be exhausting.
As mentioned in my guide to day trips from Tokyo I would suggest allocating more days to your itinerary to give dear old Kyoto the time she deserves. With over 3,000 temples, shrines, hidden gems, cultural experiences, tranquil gardens and more.
NOTE: Due to overtourism in Kyoto plaguing the city in the past (mostly from day trippers), to be an invisible tourist I would not recommend a Kyoto tour from Osaka.
TIP: My detailed guide to discovering Japan off the beaten path suggests nearby Lake Biwa is a compact alternative to Kyoto to consider. Featuring temples and shrines nested in forests, Hikone Castle and more, it can easily be covered in one day. The lake itself even features a floating grand torii gate similar to Miyajima (mentioned down the page).
30 mins and under day trips from Kyoto or Osaka by train
NARA
- 35 minutes from Shin-Osaka on Rapid Express Kintetsu Railway line
- Covered by the Kintestu Rail Pass
TIP: Read my full Nara day trip itinerary for more details!
With its history dating back as early as the 8th century, Nara is another former Japanese capital city and a great one day trip from Osaka. I’m sure you’ve heard of the sacred deer that roam freely throughout the temple grounds here as they’re believed to be messengers to the gods!
Nara is home to the world’s largest wooden building, Todai-ji. This impressive UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the country’s most historically significant temples, housing the all important daibutsu (bronze Buddha). It is one of my favourite day trips from Osaka in winter!
A day trip to Nara from Osaka will allow you to step back in time to this ancient era with its incredibly preserved temples, shrines and tranquil gardens. Make sure you don’t miss Yoshiki-en gardens, Nigatsu-do, Kofuku-ji and Kasuga Taisha.
KOBE
- 15 minutes from Shin-Osaka on Nozomi Shinkansen, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Other trains on this line such as the special rapid service are covered by JR Pass
Contributed by: Pam – Directionally Challenged Traveller
I wanted to do an Osaka to Kobe day trip to try Kobe beef, as it’s one of the rarest (and most expensive) beef in the world. The marbled beef is unlike anything else, a specific strain of Wagyu beef from the prefecture of Hyogo – whose capital city is Kobe.
While I thoroughly enjoyed being taught the art of cooking Kobe beef, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of things to do in the city. It was less overwhelming than Osaka’s Dotonbori, but just as entertaining.
Learning about the history of sake at the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery was a unique way to learn about the cultural traditions and history surrounding the drink. After eating and drinking our way full, which I’m definitely not complaining about, a walk around the Fruit Flower Park was exactly what our bodies needed. Whether it’s food, history, or nature you’re looking for, Kobe is one of the great day trips from Osaka.
1 hour and under day trips from Osaka JR Pass
HIMEJI
- 45 minutes from Shin-Osaka on Nozomi Shinkansen, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Other trains on this line are covered by JR Pass
Contributed by: Rhonda Krause – Travel? Yes Please!
History buffs and architecture aficionados will enjoy a day trip from Osaka to Himeji to marvel at Himeji Castle.
Himeji Castle is one of the most famous of Japan’s original castles, praised for its architectural achievements and admired for its graceful appearance. The castle has long white walls stretching from each side of the 7-story main keep, giving it the appearance of a bird in flight.
The interior of the castle has wooden rooms and steep, narrow staircases. The higher you go inside the keep the better the views get of the castle grounds, defensive walls, and the surrounding city of Himeji.
After touring the castle, it’s worth spending some time exploring the gardens. The castle looks especially pretty in when framed by the pink flowers during cherry blossom season in spring.
NAGOYA
- 45 mins from Shin-Osaka via Kyoto, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Covered by the JR Pass
TIP: Read my guide to why Nagoya is worth visiting for more details!
Nagoya was completely destroyed by allied air raids during WWII and has since been rebuilt. However it can be considered by some as “just another Japanese city” without much to do. I’d like to point out these folks are incorrect!
Although a reconstruction, stunning Honmaru Palace at Nagoya Castle rivals that of Nijo Castle in Kyoto. Nagoya-meshi is the word used for the city’s exciting foodie scene (I had the best wagyu meal of my life there!) and there are traditional pockets to discover that managed to remain untouched by the air raids.
Theme park lovers will be pleased to know Legoland Nagoya sees around 10% of the number of visitors Tokyo Disneyland and Osaka’s Universal Studios sees, meaning a fun day out without having to brave lengthy queues for rides. Nagoya pleasantly surprised me!
TIP: Read my Legoland Nagoya review for everything you need to know about visiting.
ONOMICHI
- 2 hours from Shin-Osaka, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Covered by the JR Pass
TIP: Read my guide to spending one day in Onomichi for more details!
A popular starting point with locals for the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, Onomichi is an arty seaside town with lengthy history and cliffside temples. Known for cats, you can spot statues, paintings and all kinds of crafty things of these furry friends!
Riding the Mountain Ropeway to take in stunning views over the Seto Inland Sea from the beautiful Senko-ji Temple was my favourite part of visiitng Onomichi. The Daruma ema on display are awesome too.
UJI
- 1 hour from Shin-Osaka via Kyoto, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line and JR Nara Line
- Covered by the JR Pass
TIP: Read my full Uji day trip itinerary for more details!
Contributed by: Jackie Szeto & Justin Huynh – Life Of Doing
For travellers who love drinking and eating matcha green tea foods, head to Uji. Located south of the main Kyoto area, it’s only a one hour train ride from Osaka Station to Uji Station.
The first thing that you’ll notice on your Uji day trip is that the city is small compared to Kyoto and Osaka. It’s the perfect ambiance to wander through Omotesando Street to shop for tea and souvenirs and explore the Buddhist temple, Byodoin, without the crowds.
At the temple, check out the Phoenix Hall, which has a tall statue of Buddha and mystical phoenix birds. Uji also has smaller shrines and a botanical garden that you can visit.
Trying the matcha foods is a main highlight of the trip. From the savoury foods of soba and ramen to the sweets of soft-serve ice cream, mochi, pancakes, and parfaits, you’ll enjoy your share of eating green foods for the day.
AKASHI KAIKYO BRIDGE & AWAJISHIMA
- 1 hour from Shin-Osaka, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Covered by the JR Pass
Contributed by: Kenny – Knycx Journeying
Osaka is one of my favourite destinations in Japan because of its unique and delicious food; it is also the hub of cities like Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe – which the nearby Awaji Island may fall out of many tourists’ radar.
Located in the eastern part of the Seto Inland Sea, Awaji Island connects Honshu and Shikoku with the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, which is officially the longest suspension bridge of any kind in the world!
The bridge straddles across the Akashi Strait with an impressive length of four kilometers. It was impressive but also thrilling to walk on the glass-floor walkway in the Maiko Marine Promenade to truly experience the height and scale of this man-made wonder.
Go across the bridge by bus afterward to visit another architectural masterpiece: Awaji Yumebutai, a convention complex designed by Tadao Ando. It has many modern architectural designs, including a stepped garden of one hundred flower beds, overlooking the Seto Inland sea.
1.5 hour places to visit near Osaka/Kyoto
KURASHIKI
- 1 hour 30 minutes from Shin-Osaka on Nozomi Shinkansen via Okayama, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Other trains on this line are covered by JR Pass
TIP: Be sure to check my detailed guide to Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter for more!
While its more famous neighbour Okayama is home to Korakuen (one of Japan’s top 3 gardens), the Edo-era town of Kurashiki is often overlooked by many foreign tourists. With its glistening canals lined with weeping willows, preserved architecture and old-world charm, it’s easy to see why Kurashiki is affectionately known as “The Venice of Japan!”
Take a relaxing canal boat ride beneath the willows and spend time exploring the many kominka (traditional warehouses) now converted into boutiques, quirky museums and eateries. As the birthplace of denim in Japan, you can even make your own Bizen pottery as a souvenir.
Perhaps the most surprising gem in Kurashiki is the Ohara Museum of Art. Dedicated to an impressive private collection of Western masterpieces by Picasso, Cézanne, Monet and more, the story on how these artworks made it to this compact town in the middle of Japan is an amazing one.
HIROSHIMA & MIYAJIMA
- 1 hour 30 minutes from Osaka on Nozomi Shinkansen to Hiroshima, JR Tokaido-Sanyo line
- Other trains on this line are covered by JR Pass
TIP: Read my detailed guide to exploring the main and overlooked Hiroshima attractions and how to get from Hiroshima to Miyajima via the different ferry options!
Hiroshima is one such place I firmly believe everyone should visit at least once during their lifetime if given the chance. There is nowhere else quite like it on our planet that will leave you feeling so humbled, yet inspired at the same time.
Aside from the haunting remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome, you’d be forgiven for thinking the city was not the recipient of the world’s first nuclear bomb on August 6, 1945. While Hiroshima is a vibrant, buzzing city on the surface, there are remnants and even nuclear shadows from that fateful day dotted throughout if you know where to look.
To understand more about what happened here, a visit to the Peace Memorial Museum is a must. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Children’s Peace Monument, Peace Arch and Hypocentre Plaque are just a small handful of World Heritage sites to include on your visit.
Is Hiroshima a day trip from Osaka? Although I would recommend spending at least 2 days here to take the time to see all the significant Hiroshima attractions, a day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima is possible, albeit a little rushed if you wish to spend half a day in Miyajima as well.
With even more sacred deer, the most photographed torii gate in the country, beautiful temples and shrines as well as incredible natural scenery, Miyajima island is a great addition to your Hiroshima visit!
2 hour day trips from Osaka/Kyoto
MT KOYA (KOYASAN)
- 2 hours from Osaka-Namba on Nankai Koya Railway line
- Covered by the Kansai Thru Pass
Contributed by: Shandos Cleaver – Travelnuity
One of the most interesting day trips from Osaka is to Koyasan, or Mount Koya, a sacred mountain in the Kii Mountain Range. While under 2 hours from the centre of Osaka, this village is a world away from the bustling city.
The centre of a Buddhist sect and a major pilgrimage site, the temple town was built up around the Kongobuji Temple, the head monastery of Shingon Buddhism and home to the largest rock garden in Japan, but there’s plenty of other temples dotted around the town.
Don’t miss the atmospheric tombstone-lined walk through the forest to Okunoin, the mausoleum of the sect’s founder.
To get to Koyasan, take the train from Osaka’s Namba Station to Gokurakubashi Station. Then transfer to a cable car (JPY 500), which lifts you up into the mountains, before a final short bus trip into the town (JPY 300). With an altitude of 900m, the town offers a refreshing respite from the summer heat. If you’d like to stay longer, many temples offer a temple stay program.
2+ hour day trips from Osaka/Kyoto
Is Naoshima Island a day trip from Osaka?
Naoshima, known as Japan’s “Art Island” is located almost 3 hours one way from Osaka via train and ferry. Situated within the Seto Inland Sea between Okayama and Takamatsu, the compact island is dotted with art museums, sculptures and and interesting architecture.
The most famous and unofficial icons of the island are Yayoi Kusama’s giant spotted pumpkins. The most famous yellow and black one was washed away during a terrible storm in August 2021, and was replaced a year later.
While morning people may enjoy getting up at the crack of dawn to ensure the most of the day trip there, realistically a Naoshima day trip from Osaka will mean up to six hours in travel time alone — an incredibly long day. The same can be said for Takeda Castle Ruins.
Considering the lengthy time and planning it takes, I personally would not recommend an Osaka to Naoshima day trip. Instead, I’d plan a future visit separately and spend the prior night in Okayama where a one way journey only takes 1.5 hours. But of course, you do you!
TIP: As I am yet to visit myself, this guide to Naoshima Island details exactly how to plan a future visit and what to expect.
How to get around Osaka & Kyoto
One of the most common questions I see repeatedly in Japan travel forums is potential visitors asking if they should purchase the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) in advance, with the answers usually overwhelmingly in favour.
Instead of blindly buying the JR Pass thinking all tourists need it, keep in mind it does not cover all railways in the country. Privately owned railways don’t accept the pass, nor are they accepted on the faster Nozomi and Mizuho bullet trains. The JR Pass only covers journeys on their own lines (with only a small handful of exceptions).
In saying that, the JR Pass went up 77% in October 2023, in which most cases it no longer pays off. Individual tickets are now almost always the cheaper option. You can purchase individual bullet trains tickets in advance here.
TIP: Flying into Kansai International Airport and staying within the Kansai region? If you’re only visiting Osaka, Kyoto and Nara, the Kintetsu Rail Pass could be for you instead!
For getting around within Osaka and Kyoto, I’d suggest pre-purchasing a reloadable Suica (IC) card or ICOCA Card (Osaka’s version of Suica) to use on the Metro (subway), buses and some light rail. The IC cards can be used in most cities throughout Japan. It’s definitely convenient not having to purchase individual train tickets!
Concluding the best Osaka day trips
That’s a wrap for popular and lesser-known Osaka day trips! I hope my guide to side trips from Osaka has inspired you to look beyond the obvious locations and dispelled some myths about whether it’s really realistic to visit some in only one day.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Osaka and where to stay, don’t forget to take a look at my detailed Osaka itinerary to cover all the bases. For guided day trips, check these day tours out of Osaka to get even more ideas.
Which of these day trip destinations will you add to your Osaka bucket list someday? Let me know in the comments below!
While you’re here, why not take a look at all my articles for travel in Japan, ideas for responsible itinerary planning, how to be an “invisible” tourist around the globe and much more? If you found this helpful, I’d love for you to join me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok for more travel inspiration!
Until next time,
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