7 excursions from Kyoto 京都から日帰りできるスポット７選

Ohara

North of Kyoto lies Ohara, the hidden gem of the Kansai region, a mountain village that seems timeless. Its historic temples, vibrant autumn colors and spring cherry blossoms make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Sanzenin temple, linked to the imperial family, the Jikkoin, which has influenced Japan's musical traditions, and the Jakkoin, a convent since 1186, are the highlights of this picturesque town. Ohara is also renowned as the center of shomyo, an ancient style of Buddhist chanting. To reach this haven of peace in the mountains and discover rural Japan and its handicrafts, simply take a train from JR Kyoto station or a bus to Ohara.

See also: Guided tour of Ohara village

Omihachiman

Discover the historic charm ofOmihachiman, a once prosperous town on the shores of Lake Biwa. Rich from its past as a commercial crossroads, Omihachiman has preserved many period buildings, including the town museum, which offers an excellent introduction to local history. Take a cruise along the Hachiman-bori canal for a glimpse of how trade shaped the town. Don't forget to join the Sagicho fire festival if you're there in March, and admire the magnificent maple trees atEigenji temple during the autumn season.

Mount Kurama

We recommend starting your walk in Kibune, accessible via the Eizan line from downtown Kyoto. There, you'll find restaurants where you can eat seated on tatami mats set up above the river: a real bowl of freshness! Next, take the Path of Roots (木の根道 Ki no nemichi) and let yourself be guided to Kurama temple, where a tengu - mountain demon - awaits you. You can then depart from Kurama station.

Uji

Tea lovers, don't miss the town of Uji, one of the most famous for green tea. It's also the second-largest city in Kyoto Prefecture. It's home to the Byôdô-in temple, which appears on 10-yen coins. It's a pleasant place to stroll through the narrow shopping streets or to cross the river on the famous Ujibashi Bridge - the hero of numerous paintings and ancient poems.

Nara

Nara' s main points of interest can be visited in a day's drive from Kyoto. Also a former imperial capital (710-784), you'll find architectural marvels such as the Tôdai-ji temple, which houses a giant Buddha statue almost 15 meters tall. Another of the city's attractions, especially if you're coming with children, are the deer that roam freely. You can buy deer cookies(shika-sembei) along the road to attract them.

Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa, northeast of Kyoto, is Japan's largest freshwater lake. It is surrounded by a quasi-national nature park. Most Kyoto-ites visit Otsu, but the main attraction of this port city lies in the major temples of the Tendai Buddhist sect around Mount Hiei. Castle lovers will head for Hikone, while those seeking peace and authenticity will prefer small towns like Omihachiman.

Osaka

All of the above destinations will show you the traditional side of Japan. For those who'd like to lose themselves in the midst of skyscrapers and prefer the cacophony of game centers to the prayers of Zen temples, head for Osaka, Japan's third-largest city. Just 30 minutes from the ancient capital, Osaka is renowned for its gastronomy, particularly street food. Come and taste takoyaki (octopus dumplings), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and sushi under the neon lights of Dotonbori!

Read also: Osaka's culinary specialties