Best Train Journeys Around the World in Kyōto, Japan

1. Kyoto to Hakone Round Trip

Experience the scenic beauty of Mount Fuji and Hakone on this round-trip train journey from Kyoto.

Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, five lakes, and hot springs
Variety: Includes travel by Shinkansen, local trains, and a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes all transportation and some meals

Explore the historic cities of Kyoto and Nara on this round-trip train journey.

Historical Sites: Visit iconic sites like Todai-ji Temple in Nara and Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto
Nature: Pass through lush forests and rural landscapes along the way
Easy Access: Round-trip ticket includes transportation and some attractions' entrance fees

Visit the stunning Himeji Castle on this day trip from Kyoto.

Iconic Landmark: One of Japan's most beautiful and best-preserved castles
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation and castle admission
Learning Opportunity: Explore the castle's history with an informative guide

Visit Amanohashidate, the famous 'bridge to heaven' on this day trip from Kyoto.

Natural Wonder: Experience a unique land formation of sand formations resembling a bridge
Learning Opportunity: Explore the area's rich history and mythology with a knowledgeable guide
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation and some attractions' entrance fees

Experience the stunning scenery of the Japanese Alps on this train journey from Kyoto to Takayama.

Scenic Views: Travel through lush forests, deep valleys, and over mountain passes
Cultural Experience: Discover traditional Japanese culture in Takayama's old town
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation and some accommodations

Explore the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Forest on this round-trip train journey from Kyoto.

Natural Wonder: Walk through a stunning grove of towering bamboo
Cultural Experience: Visit iconic temples and shrines in Arashiyama
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation and some attractions' entrance fees

Take a scenic train ride through the Japanese Alps from Kyoto to Takayama.

Scenic Views: Travel through beautiful mountain landscapes and rural villages
Cultural Experience: Explore Takayama's historic old town and traditional architecture
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, some meals, and attractions' entrance fees

Cruise on Lake Biwa and take a scenic train ride through the mountains on this day trip from Kyoto.

Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful lake and mountain views on both cruise and train ride
Cultural Experience: Visit historic temples and shrines along the way
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, cruise, and some attractions' entrance fees

Relax in the hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen on this day trip from Kyoto.

Relaxation: Seven natural hot springs to choose from for a peaceful soak
Scenic Views: Travel through lush forests and rural landscapes along the way
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, accommodations, meals, and hot spring passes

Cruise along the stunning coastline of Maizuru Bay on this day trip from Kyoto.

Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful ocean and coastal views on the cruise
Nature: Spot wildlife such as dolphins and seals in their natural habitat
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, cruise, and some attractions' entrance fees

Visit the sacred Ise Grand Shrine on this day trip from Kyoto.

Religious Significance: One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines
Scenic Views: Travel through beautiful rural landscapes and coastal areas
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, guide, and shrine admission

Explore the beautiful Kii Peninsula on this day trip from Kyoto.

Scenic Views: Travel through lush forests, deep valleys, and along stunning coastlines
Cultural Experience: Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Koyasan and Kumano Sanzan
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, guide, accommodations, meals, and attractions' entrance fees

Take a scenic train ride through the Kii Peninsula on this day trip from Kyoto.

Scenic Views: Travel through beautiful forests, deep valleys, and along stunning coastlines
Cultural Experience: Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Koyasan and Kumano Sanzan
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, some meals, and attractions' entrance fees

Visit the sacred Mount Koya on this day trip from Kyoto.

Religious Significance: A center of Shingon Buddhism and home to over a thousand temples
Scenic Views: Travel through lush forests, deep valleys, and along stunning mountainsides
Ease: Round-trip ticket includes transportation, accommodations, meals, and attractions' entrance fees

Hike the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route from Kyoto.

Cultural Experience: Walk in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims on this UNESCO World Heritage Site
Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful forest, mountain, and coastal views throughout the hike
Ease: Tour includes transportation, guide, accommodations, meals, and some attractions' entrance fees