ðŸ 4 Best Cities to Visit Around Kyoto â Easy Day Trips Youâll Love
Partager
Kyoto is rich in temples and traditionsâbut the Kansai region has so much more to offer, just a train ride away. Whether youâre into food, nature, culture, or modern vibes, here are 4 amazing cities near Kyoto for an unforgettable day trip.
âž»
ðµ 1. Uji â The Matcha Capital
ð Travel time: ~30 minutes from Kyoto Station
Why visit:
⢠Taste the finest matcha in Japan, grown locally
⢠Visit the stunning Byodo-in Temple (on the 10 yen coin)
⢠Enjoy calm riverside walks and peaceful shrines
Must-try: Matcha parfaits, matcha soba, matcha everything ð
Perfect for: Tea lovers, culture seekers, relaxing afternoons
âž»
ðŠ 2. Nara â Temples and Deer
ð Travel time: ~1 hour from Kyoto
Why visit:
⢠Say hello to the friendly deer of Nara Park
⢠Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha
⢠Explore ancient shrines and tranquil paths in the forest
Must-try: Local kakinoha sushi (wrapped in persimmon leaves)
Perfect for: Families, nature lovers, first-time visitors
âž»
ð¡ 3. Osaka â Neon, Food, and Fun
ð Travel time: ~30â45 minutes from Kyoto
Why visit:
⢠Eat your way through Dotonbori: takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu
⢠Shop and explore in Shinsaibashi and Amerika-mura
⢠Enjoy entertainment like arcades, Universal Studios Japan, or Spa World
Must-try: Takoyaki fresh off the grill!
Perfect for: Foodies, night owls, urban explorers
âž»
ðïž 4. Arashiyama â Nature Escape in the City
ð Travel time: ~30 minutes from central Kyoto (still part of Kyoto City)
Why visit:
⢠Walk through the famous Bamboo Grove
⢠Visit Iwatayama Monkey Park
⢠Take a Hozugawa River boat ride or a scenic train ride
Must-try: Tofu cuisine, traditional sweets along the river
Perfect for: Couples, photographers, nature lovers
âž»
ð¡ Day Trip Tips:
⢠Leave early to avoid crowds, especially for Arashiyama & Nara
⢠Bring cash (some local spots donât take cards)
⢠Use an ICOCA card or JR Pass for easy transport
⢠Download Google Maps + Navitime Japan for train planning
âž»
Conclusion
Kyoto may be your home base, but the real adventure is just a short train ride away. From matcha tastings in Uji to deer selfies in Nara, each nearby city adds a new flavor to your Japan experience.
âš Start exploringâKyoto is just the beginning.