Day Trips and Tours from Osaka

The port city of Osaka is best known for its thriving street food scene, where visitors can follow their nose as aromas of takoyaki and okonomiyaki waft from bustling stalls.

While the city is home to some impressive architecture and historic shrines, it also serves as a jumping-off point for those wanting to explore more of the country.

Whether you want to discover the religious customs of ancient Japan, try the world's best beef or see the unique resting ground of an esteemed emperor, you'll find a day trip from Osaka for you.

Kyoto

If you wish to gain an insight into how Japanese culture has evolved over time, consider journeying to the oldest city in the country — Kyoto. Located in the Kansai region of Honshu Island, Kyoto was founded in the 8th century and was both the largest Japanese city, and the country's capital for over 1,000 years.

There are over 3,000 temples and shrines scattered about the city, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, and religion. These range from Buddhist temples to shrines from the Shinto religion — a Japanese religion formed around worshipping ancestors and nature spirits.

The most celebrated of these religious monuments is the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is formed of over 1,000 red torii gates. It also features an abundance of fox sculptures to pay homage to the messengers of Inari, the god of rice.

On a day trip to Kyoto, you may also see Kinkaku-ji — often referred to as the Golden Pavilion because of its gold leaf detailing. This sacred site was rebuilt in the 20th century after being destroyed in a fire but its history stretches back several centuries to the 14th century.

If that doesn't impress you, why not learn about the shocking history of Kiyomizu-dera? This Buddhist monastery was once known as a spot where believers would risk death by jumping off its ledge in the hope of being granted a wish.

Nara

Another city that was once used as Japan's capital is Nara. While its history dates back to the 8th century, today Nara's fame comes from its park, nestled in the heart of the city, and its friendly residents.

Over 1,300 deer roam this green haven, which provides a respite from the bustling streets of the city, and enjoy interacting with tourists. Visitors can snap a selfie, pet or feed these placid mammals while roaming the park, which is filled with shrines and temples.

The city is located in the southern part of Honshu Island and is also known for its Seven Great Temples of Nara, some of which you can explore on a day tour. These seven celebrated monuments are Todaiji, Saidaiji, Yakushiji, Horyuji, Kofukuji, Gangoji and Daianji, and they range in age from 800 to 1,400 years old.

Kasiga Taisha is another shrine that is often visited on a Nara walking tour. Originally built in the 8th century, this structure is believed to have been visited by a Kami deity who provided protection for the city.

Kobe

What the city of Kobe lacks in ancient history, it makes up for in natural beauty and traditional charm. Founded in the 19th century as a port city, Kobe is still home to a thriving import-export trade.

While a city may not have existed here until the 1800s, archaeologists have found evidence that the area was inhabited during the Jōmon period, which lasted from 14,000 to 300 B.C.

Located in the Kansai region, Kobe is surrounded by the Rokkō mountain range, which provides a natural viewpoint over the city from heights of over 930 meters. One of the most popular attractions in Kobe is its botanical gardens.

The Kobe Municipal Arboretum has added over 1,200 species of flora to its collection since the site opened in 1940, including many native Japanese trees and shrubs. Many day trips make a stop at Kobe for its exquisite shopping.

Whether it's local sweets, souvenirs or anime you wish to purchase, you can find it all by wandering the streets on a Kobe city tour. Another site that draws tourists to Kobe is its hot springs, which meander through its streets and have provided healing to residents for generations.

While in Kobe, try the city's signature dish — its marbled Wagyu beef, which is regarded as some of the most flavorful in the world. Buttery and smooth, this meat is best enjoyed at a traditional teppanyaki restaurant.

Kofun Tombs

The Kofun Tombs can be found in Daisen Park, which is located in Sakai and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site. This spot is home to almost 50 megalithic tombs and graves, as well as the Daisen-ryo Kofun.

This mausoleum is the highlight of a day trip to Kofun Tombs and was the resting ground of emperor Nintoko — the 16th ruler of Japan who reigned in the 4th century.

This tomb is among the largest in the world and is easily recognizable by its keyhole shape. These mausoleums were built to show authority and each one houses an important or prominent member of ancient society.

An excursion that takes you to the Kofun Tombs also transports you across the region for a whirlwind tour of other landmarks. You'll see the grand 16th-century castle of Osaka, visit Japan's oldest Buddhist temple and learn about the Shinto religion at a traditional shrine.

Himeji Castle

Overlooking the Hyōgo Prefecture from a hilltop in Himeji Castle is its namesake castle complex. This 16th-century construct was built on top of an older fort that dates back to the 14th century and has seen several changes since.

This grand fortress was Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage site and is the most visited castle in the country.

Around 1.5 million tourists, both Japanese and international, make their way to Himeji Castle each year to discover its pristine white exterior, and traditional architecture. Inside, the castle has 83 rooms, featuring historic Japanese beams and an array of artifacts.

During WWII, the city of Himeji was heavily bombed, however, its iconic castle narrowly escaped destruction. It also stood firm during the Great Hanshin earthquake that hit the city in 1995.

Today, Himeji Castle is heavily respected as one of Japan's three most important castles, alongside Matsumoto Castle and Kumamoto Castle.

Himeji Castle day tours spend the morning exploring the idyllic grounds and interior while learning about its deep history. Then, you'll pay a visit to the Arima Onsen hot springs for a dip in Japan's healing thermal waters.