Japan
Day trips in Kyoto
Full-day excursions to the places worth leaving the city for. Kyoto was Japan's imperial capital for over a thousand years and still has around 1,600 temples, 17 of its sites listed by UNESCO.
Best day trips in Kyoto
Free cancellation on most experiences. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What to expect
Day trips usually run 8 to 12 hours with transport and guide, sometimes lunch and entries. Departure points are central; hotel pickup costs more.
Popular day trips from Kyoto: Nara, Osaka, Himeji Castle and Uji.
How to choose
- What is included: entries, lunch, guide on site
- Time actually spent at destination vs on the road
- Group size on the bus
- Free cancellation in case of weather
Local tips
- Compare what is included before comparing prices: entries and lunch change the real cost.
- Fushimi Inari is open around the clock and free, so arrive before 7am to walk the gates without crowds.
- Some private lanes in Gion are now closed to tourists, with signs and fines, so follow your guide and do not photograph geiko or maiko without permission.
Combine it with: Fushimi Inari torii gates at sunrise, Arashiyama bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji and Gion and Higashiyama evening walk.
Frequently asked questions
How long do day trips in Kyoto last?
Day trips usually run 8 to 12 hours with transport and guide, sometimes lunch and entries. Departure points are central; hotel pickup costs more.
What is the best way to book day trips in Kyoto?
Compare what is included before comparing prices: entries and lunch change the real cost. Fushimi Inari is open around the clock and free, so arrive before 7am to walk the gates without crowds.
Can I cancel day trips in Kyoto?
Most experiences listed here offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Check the conditions on the booking page before paying.
When is the best time to visit Kyoto?
Late March to early April and mid to late November are the most beautiful and the most crowded weeks of the year. Summer is hot and humid, and winter is cold but quiet, with lower hotel prices.