13 Best Day Trips from Osaka

During my travels I’ve passed through Osaka a few times and each time I have no problem finding stuff to do, it’s just such a cool city and one I’m happy to keep coming back to. But, if you’re going, you really should tear yourself away from the city’s sake and sushi scene to explore some other spots on a day trip from Osaka.

Day trips from Osaka

Osaka is a great gateway to nearby southern cities and with an average train delay time of 18 seconds in Japan, you can pretty much rely on the rail links to get you where you need. There’s so many cool places to visit from Osaka, it’d be rude not to. 

13 Best Day Trips from Osaka

It’s easy to take a side trip from Osaka, thanks to the excellent rail service in Japan. There’s also a great, modern new airport in Osaka, which means you can base yourself there, and take day trips from Osaka for a more unique trip in Japan.

day trips from osaka

Disclaimer –

some of these experiences were enjoyed on a press trip basis. All thoughts and impressions my own though, of course. 

1. Osaka day trip to Lake Biwa 

I’m recently back from a week around Lake Biwa – exploring the many things to do in Fukui, in the north, and researching a