Best day trips from Kyoto for Australians

You’re in luck if you’re going to Japan and using Kyoto as your home base. Kyoto has old temples and traditional tea houses, but it’s also a wonderful site to go on some of the best day trips from Kyoto. No matter what kind of trip you’re looking for—cultural, gastronomic or relaxing—there’s something close for every Australian tourist.

This is a full guide to the greatest day trips from Kyoto, from busy cities to quiet towns.

Nara: See holy deer and historic temples

Nara is a tranquil city full of history and charm. It’s only a little less than an hour away from Kyoto by train. Nara Park is the most famous place in Nara. You can walk among hundreds of friendly sika deer that roam freely.

Highlights:

• Todai-ji Temple: You may see the Great Buddha, which is one of Japan’s biggest bronze statues.
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Famous for its thousands of lanterns.
• Nara Park: A nice place to take pictures and have a picnic.

Nara is a great place for families, couples, and anyone travelling alone who wishes to have a spiritual and peaceful experience.

Osaka – A foodie’s paradise and cultural hot spot

Osaka is Kyoto’s colourful, energetic cousin. It’s only 30 minutes away by rail. It has a completely unique mood than Kyoto, which is known for its street cuisine, nightlife, and unique atmosphere.

Must-do experiences:

• Dotonbori district: Where you can see neon lights and the river and eat local street food.
• Osaka Castle: A beautiful example of Japanese architecture.
• Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki: Two local dishes you can’t miss.

Osaka is a must-see for Australians who like to have fun and learn about other cultures.

Uji – Home of Japan’s finest green tea

Uji, located just 20 minutes from Kyoto, is renowned for producing some of the best matcha green tea in Japan. If you like Japanese tea or want to relax, Uji is a wonderful place to go.

Things to enjoy:

• Byodo-in Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site featured on the 10 yen coin.
• Tea houses: Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in a peaceful setting.
• Uji River: A wonderful place to see cherry blossoms in the spring.

Uji is a wonderful place for Australian tourists who want to experience a calmer, more traditional part of Japan.

Himeji: Visit Japan’s most magnificent castle

You can go to Himeji, home of the legendary Himeji Castle, in under an hour by Shinkansen from Kyoto. It is sometimes called Japan’s most beautiful surviving feudal castle.

Don’t miss

• Himeji Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with white walls and beautiful architecture.
• Koko-en Garden: A peaceful Japanese garden close to the castle.

Himeji is highly interesting for anyone who loves history and architecture.

Kurama and Kibune: A peaceful mountain getaway

If you want to get away from the city and into nature, visit the charming mountain towns of Kurama and Kibune, which are on the northern edge of Kyoto. A beautiful hiking track connects Kurama and Kibune, winding through cedar forests and antique shrines.

What to do:

• Soak in a traditional onsen (hot spring) at Kurama Onsen.
• Visit Kibune Shrine, known for its lantern-lit path.
• Hike between villages: A relaxing 1–2 hour walk.

This destination is ideal for Australians seeking to escape urban crowds and unwind in the natural environment.

Lake Biwa is Japan’s biggest freshwater lake

Lake Biwa, which is east of Kyoto, is a peaceful place to go for outdoor activities, biking, and sightseeing.

Top attractions:

• Shirahige Shrine: A scenic torii gate standing in the lake.
• Otsu City: historic temples, street food, and walks along the lake.
• Lake cruises and fishing: Fun for the whole family.

It is an ideal destination for those who appreciate nature and long for the refreshing breeze of the water.

Amanohashidate – Japan’s “Bridge to Heaven”

Amanohashidate is one of Japan’s “Three Scenic Views.” Although Amanohashidate is located a bit further north, it is still possible to reach it in a single day. Pine trees cover the thin sandbar that spans Miyazu Bay.

Highlights:

• Lookout points: From above, the sandbar seems like a path to the sky!
• Rent bikes: Ride along the sandbar.
• Relax at hot springs: Soak in the hot water to relax.

This is an excellent choice for anyone who prefers beautiful views and peace by the sea.

Kinosaki Onsen – Traditional Japanese hot spring town

Kinosaki Onsen is worth the journey if you want a full-on Japanese onsen experience, even though it takes a little longer by train (2.5 hours).

What’s special:

• Seven public bathhouses: Each with its own charm and design.
• Wear a yukata: Stroll around the town like a local.
• Local Food: Try crab dishes that are in season and sake from the area.

Kinosaki Onsen is a wonderful place for Aussie tourists who want to travel slowly and authentically.

Travel tips for Australians in Japan

• Transport: If you’re an Australian visiting Japan, use the Japan Rail Pass to save money on day trips, especially if you’re taking the Shinkansen.
• Weather: The best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November).
• Cultural etiquette: When you go into homes or some temples, it’s polite to take off your shoes. Be on time; being on time is important.
• Language help: Most important tourist spots have signs in English; however, it will help a lot if you learn a few Japanese phrases.

Conclusion

Kyoto is more than just a place to visit; it’s the door to a wide range of interesting things to do and see in Japan’s Kansai region. Each day trip is different, from the historic charm of Nara to the busy streets of Osaka to the peaceful scenery of Kurama.