1. Osaka Castle
Perhaps the best day trip from Kyoto – by virtue of its proximity – is the lovely historic city of Osaka. About an hour to the south of Kyoto (whether you drive or take the train), Osaka has long been considered the epicenter of Japanese culture, and is home to a number of excellent sights and attractions worth visiting.
By far the most famous of the city’s landmarks is Osaka Castle (Ōsaka-jō). Built in 1586, it was for centuries the country’s most formidable fortress. There is much to see and do here, so be prepared to spend at least half a day exploring this sprawling property.
Highlights include the 42-meter-tall main tower, with its fine views and exhibits relating to the castle’s history, including a sizable collection of historic weapons and armor that’s worth seeing.
Be sure to also venture into the adjacent Osaka Castle Park, home to Hokoku Shrine. The even older Shitennō-ji, dating to AD 59, is also worth a visit.
If your travel itinerary is flexible, consider visiting in the autumn or winter. You’ll not only avoid the crowds, but will enjoy this beautiful site either surrounded by spectacular fall colors or shrouded in snow.
2. The Historic Temples of Nara
Even closer to Kyoto than Osaka, a day trip to the lovely historic city of Nara is best undertaken by car. Better still, due to its relatively (by Japanese standards) remote location, consider seeing the city as part of an organized tour.
Once there, you’ll take in the very best of the area’s temples and shrines, as well as the historic Nijo Castle. Looking as if untouched by time, Nara’s many fine old buildings and streets means it’s one of the most popular places to visit in the country, so be prepared for crowds. But it’s all worth it, especially as you’ll have the opportunity to also enjoy seeing some of the country’s most important national treasures and works of art.
Other exquisite old temples to explore include Kofuku-ji Temple (7th century) and Tōdai-ji (8th century), the latter famous for its massive statue of the Great Buddha dating from AD 749. Other features of Tōdai-ji that make it so popular are its impressive Great South Gate, with its many columns and huge eight-meter-tall statues guarding the temple entrance, as well as the world’s largest timber building, the massive Hall of the Great Buddha.
