When visiting Osaka, Japan, one of the things you can do is go on a day trip to Kyoto.
Kyoto is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern life. Renowned for its stunning temples, historic architecture, and traditional tea houses, this city is a cultural treasure trove as it offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rich history.
Of course, one day isn't enough to enjoy everything that Kyoto has to offer but if you have limited time like me, then you can at least go on a day trip.
How to Get to Kyoto from Osaka
The central areas of Kyoto and Osaka are relatively close to each other, and you can easily travel between these two cities through different modes of transportation. Kyoto Station to Osaka Station is approximately 42 kilometers or 26 miles apart.
You can easily travel between these two cities by train, which is the most convenient and efficient mode of transportation. The train ride between Kyoto and Osaka typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of train you choose, such as the JR Special Rapid Service or Shinkansen. You can also take the bus if that's what you prefer.
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| panoramic views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple |
In our case, since I went with my family and we wanted a hassle-free trip, we decided to join a group tour that included bus service to and from Kyoto and in between the tourist attractions. If I were to go on my own, I would've gone the DIY route and simply take the train and navigate through Kyoto using Google Maps.
Places to See on a Day Trip to Kyoto
If you only have one day to visit Kyoto, then you won't be able to see everything there but it's enough to visit the city's highlights. Here are the tourist attractions that you shouldn't miss.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
One of the popular shrines in Japan is Fushimi Inari Taisha, which is also known as the shrine with a thousand gates. Its breathtaking trail is adorned with over 10,000 fiery red Torii gates amidst the pine tree forest surrounding Mt. Inari.
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| Fushimi Inari Taisha |
If you've seen the movie "Memoirs of a Geisha" then this place would look familiar to you. This shrine was in a memorable scene wherein Chiyo was running past the Torii gates after realizing that she truly wanted to become a geisha.
This shrine is devoted to the Shinto god of rice called Inari. It has become very famous among both tourists and pilgrims. Fushimi Inari Taisha is more than just an abode and it serves as a beautiful landmark in Kyoto.
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| the famous red Torii gates |
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Japan's most iconic and historic Buddhist temples. Its name, "Kiyomizu," translates to "Pure Water," and the temple is named after Otawa Waterfall, which runs through the temple grounds. Situated upon a steep hillside, it projects into the surroundings creating beautiful panoramas over Kyoto, especially during the cherry blossom season and the colorful autumn foliage.
It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds significant cultural and religious importance. Visitors can explore the temple's beautiful gardens, and numerous halls, and experience the Jishu Shrine, known for its love-related rituals.
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| Kiyomizu-dera Temple |
When visiting the temple, don't miss Sannenzaka, which is a stone-paved pedestrian road. This road goes downhill and is lined with traditional buildings and shops, which makes for a very picturesque view.
Kinkaku-ji or Golden Pavilion
Also known as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most famous and visually striking landmarks. This Zen Buddhist temple is renowned for its stunning exterior, which is entirely covered in gold leaf. The temple is set in a picturesque garden, surrounded by a reflective pond that enhances its beauty.
This temple was originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun in the 14th century but was later converted into a Zen temple. The temple's top two floors are adorned with gold leaf, and each floor represents a different architectural style, creating a beautiful and harmonious structure. Visitors can walk through the temple's beautifully landscaped gardens, which change with the seasons and are especially stunning during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
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| Golden Pavilion |
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural wonder and iconic destination located in the Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its enchanting and otherworldly atmosphere, created by the towering bamboo stalks that create a unique and immersive environment.
Visitors to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove can stroll along a well-maintained pathway that winds through the densely packed bamboo grove. The tall bamboo stalks create a canopy that filters the sunlight, casting beautiful patterns of light and shadow on the ground. Additionally, the rustling of the bamboo leaves in the wind adds to the serene and almost mystical ambiance.
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| Arashiyama Bamboo Grove |
During peak tourism season, it would be hard to take photos in the bamboo forest without any crowds but since we visited during winter, there were barely any people there. I was quite lucky to be able to get this shot with just me and nobody else in the background.
Getting Around Kyoto
Getting around Kyoto to visit the places mentioned above is relatively easy. This is all thanks to the city's efficient and well-connected public transportation system.
Just like any city in Japan, Kyoto has a comprehensive train network, including the JR lines and the Kyoto Municipal Subway. The JR lines connect major areas, while the subway is useful for getting around within the city. The JR Sagano Line, Tokaido Line, and Nara Line are some of the key JR lines serving Kyoto. You can use the JR Kansai Mini Pass or the JR West Kansai Area Pass for this.
Buses are a convenient way to access many tourist attractions and areas that aren't served by trains. Kyoto City Bus and Kyoto Bus are the primary bus operators in the city. Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass for unlimited bus rides within the city.
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| Sannenzaka |
For easier navigation in the city, don't forget to get a SIM card or rent a pocket Wi-Fi device so that you're always connected. This way, you can easily access Google Maps to find out which trains or buses to take from one tourist spot to another.
If you're visiting Osaka, then Kyoto is a must-see, whether you're staying there for a few days or just going on a day trip. And if it's the latter, then I hope that you find this post helpful in creating an itinerary for Kyoto.
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