Best 7 Day Trips From Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a city steeped in tradition, culture, and history. While there are plenty of things to see and do within the city itself, there are also many fascinating day trips you can take from Kyoto. Here are seven of the best day trips from Kyoto, each with a comprehensive summary:

Day 1 - Nara:

Located just 40 minutes away from Kyoto by train, Nara is a charming city famous for its ancient temples and friendly deer. The city's biggest attraction is the Todaiji Temple, home to the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. The temple is part of the Nara Park, which is home to over 1,000 deer that roam freely around the area. Visitors can feed and interact with the deer, making for a unique and memorable experience. Other must-see attractions in Nara include the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, which is famous for its 3,000 lanterns, and the Isuien Garden, which offers a peaceful escape from the city.

Day 2 - Osaka:

Known as the "Kitchen of Japan," Osaka is a vibrant city that's just a short train ride from Kyoto. Osaka is famous for its delicious food, including takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Visitors can also explore the iconic Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 16th century and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Other attractions include the vibrant Dotonbori district, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and the Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples.

Day 3 - Hiroshima:

While it's a bit further away from Kyoto (about 2.5 hours by train), Hiroshima is a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in learning about the impact of the atomic bomb. The city's Peace Memorial Park is home to several memorials and museums, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, which stands as a reminder of the devastation caused by the bomb. Visitors can also take a ferry to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, which is famous for its floating torii gate.

Day 4 - Himeji:

Just an hour away from Kyoto by train, Himeji is home to one of Japan's most iconic castles, the Himeji Castle. The castle dates back to the 14th century and is known for its stunning white facade and intricate design. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the castle's main keep. Other attractions in Himeji include the Kokoen Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden with over nine different landscapes, and the Engyoji Temple, which was used as a filming location for the movie "The Last Samurai."

Day 5 - Arashiyama:

Located on the outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a picturesque area known for its scenic bamboo forest, temples, and traditional architecture. Visitors can take a stroll through the bamboo grove, visit the Tenryuji Temple, and enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at one of the many teahouses in the area. Other attractions include the Togetsukyo Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Katsura River, and the Monkey Park Iwatayama, where visitors can interact with monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 6 - Kurama:

Nestled in the mountains north of Kyoto, Kurama is a small town known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and spiritual significance. Visitors can take a scenic train ride from Kyoto to Kurama and explore the town's many temples, including the Kurama-dera Temple, which is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Japan and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The town is also known for its hot springs, where visitors can relax and soak in the mineral-rich waters. For those looking for a more active experience, Kurama offers several hiking trails, including the Kurama-dera Trail, which leads to the top of Mount Kurama and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Day 7 - Kobe:

Located just 30 minutes away from Kyoto by bullet train, Kobe is a charming port city known for its delicious beef, historic sites, and scenic waterfront. Visitors can explore the city's Chinatown district, the largest in Japan, and visit the Ikuta Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Kobe is also known for its scenic waterfront, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy a ride on the Kobe Port Tower Ferris Wheel, or visit the Kobe City Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the city's history.

In conclusion, Kyoto is a fascinating city with plenty to see and do, but it also serves as an excellent base for exploring other parts of Japan. From the historic temples and friendly deer of Nara to the delicious food and iconic castle of Osaka, there's something for everyone within easy reach of Kyoto. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or just having fun, these seven day trips offer a diverse range of experiences and are sure to make your trip to Japan unforgettable.