5 Thrilling Day Trips from Kyoto and How to Reach Them

Nara

Nara Park | Image Source: Shutterstock

Located just an hour by train from Kyoto, Nara is renowned for its significant historical and cultural landmarks. This city boasts numerous temples, including the Todai-ji Temple, which features the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. Visitors can also explore the Kasuga-taisha Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine established in the 8th century, and Nara Park, home to over 1,000 sacred Sika deer regarded as divine messengers.

To travel from Kyoto to Nara, you can take either the JR Nara Line or the Kintetsu Nara Line. The JR Nara Line departs from Kyoto Station and reaches Nara Station in about an hour. Alternatively, the Kintetsu Nara Line can be taken from Kyoto Station or Kintetsu-Kyoto Station, taking approximately 40 minutes to arrive at Nara Station.

Arashiyama

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove | Image Credit: Shutterstock

Nestled on the western edge of Kyoto, this picturesque town is famous for its stunning bamboo grove and traditional gardens. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the grove, which is particularly enchanting in the early morning or late afternoon when sunlight streams through the towering bamboo stalks. Additionally, the Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most significant Zen temples, is a must-visit. Its garden features a serene pond, charming stone lanterns, and a diverse array of trees and plants.

Togetsu-kyo Bridge

Himeji

Himeji Castle | Image Credit: Shutterstock

Himeji Castle

Traveling from Kyoto to Himeji offers a few convenient options. One of the best is to hop on a train at Kyoto Station headed for Himeji Station. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes by shinkansen (bullet train) or about 2 hours using the express train. Upon arrival at Himeji Station, you can easily catch a bus or taxi to reach Himeji Castle.

Uji

Byodo-in Temple | Image Credit: Shutterstock

Nestled on the outskirts of Kyoto, this quaint town is renowned for its exquisite green tea. Visitors have the opportunity to explore one of the local tea farms and delve into the fascinating history and cultivation process of green tea. Additionally, the town is home to the Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most significant Buddhist temples. The temple boasts a stunning pond garden and a majestic statue of the Amida Buddha.

To reach Uji from Kyoto, you can take the JR Nara Line train departing from Kyoto Station. The journey lasts about 25 minutes, with trains operating frequently. Upon arriving at Uji Station, you can either walk or hop on a bus to your destination in Uji.

Alternatively, you can opt for the Keihan railway train from Gion-Shijo Station, which takes roughly 20 minutes. If you're planning to visit the renowned Byodo-in Temple in Uji, the Keihan railway is your best choice, as it stops right at the temple.

Kurama

Kurama Temple | Image Source: Shutterstock

Kurama-dera Temple

To travel from Kyoto to Kurama, board a train at Kyoto Station heading to Demachiyanagi Station. From there, switch to the Eizan Electric Railway to reach Kurama Station. The journey from Kyoto to Demachiyanagi takes approximately 20 minutes, followed by a 25-minute ride to Kurama. Overall, expect the trip to take about 45 minutes.

cable car

Also check out: 10 Must-Visit Destinations for a Day Trip from Osaka

Kyoto is a city rich in opportunities to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture, history, and natural beauty. Each of these day trips from Kyoto provides an excellent way to discover more of this stunning country. Whether you’re drawn to temples, gardens, castles, or hot springs, there’s something for everyone just a short train ride away from Kyoto. So, be sure to plan a day trip from Kyoto and maximize your time in Japan.