[2025] 9 day trip driving spots from Osaka | Spectacular views, gourmet food, and hidden gems!
![[2025] 9 day trip driving spots from Osaka | Spectacular views, gourmet food, and hidden gems!](https://img.activityjapan.com/wi/osaka-daytrip-drive_thumb.jpg)
Osaka Day trip drive spots from will be featured.
This time, Activity Japan will Kansai The area offers spectacular views, local gourmet food, places to relax in nature, and little-known spots. Sightseeing spots that can be reached by car from Osaka in 1 to 3 hours We picked up the following.
Information on activities you can participate in in the area We will also introduce some other interesting places to visit, so enjoy them while you drive.
table of contents
- 1 Day trips from Osaka: 5 places to enjoy nature and spectacular views
- 2 Day trips from Osaka! 2 hidden spots that can only be reached by car
- 3 A day trip from Osaka! 2 recommended spots to enjoy gourmet food
- 4 Top 10 Activities to Enjoy on a Day Trip from Osaka
- 5 Refresh your mind with a day trip drive from Osaka!
- 6 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
Day trips from Osaka: 5 places to enjoy nature and spectacular views
Osaka You can go there on a day trip from Five natural and scenic spots I'll introduce it to you.
Shiga
or
Nara
,
Hyogo
These are all places that can be easily accessed from Osaka.
Activities you can enjoy together in the surrounding area
We will also introduce some great places to visit, so please use this as reference for outings with your family or as a couple.
1. Expo Commemoration Park (Osaka)
"
Expo Memorial Park
" is about 35 minutes by car from JR Osaka Station.
Held in 1970 (Showa 45)
The Tower of the Sun, the symbol of the Osaka Expo, is famous.
is.
There are official
Large parking lot
is fully equipped,
Osaka
It is also a recommended spot for a day trip from there.
The vast grounds, which are roughly the size of 65 Koshien Stadiums,
There is a Japanese garden with flowers blooming in every season and a large lawn area where you can enjoy a stroll or a picnic.
Yo.
There are also other attractions such as train-shaped play equipment and the world's largest athletic tower. Perfect for outings with playful children It is a spot where you can relax and unwind surrounded by lush nature.
If you are planning to visit Expo Commemoration Park, we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance.
At Activity Japan,
Tickets for the Natural and Cultural Gardens and the popular athletic facility "Expo BEAST"
can be purchased in advance.
The QR code voucher sent to your smartphone allows you to enter smoothly without having to search for your ticket or worry about losing it.
Address: Senri Expo Park, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture
Osaka Expo Commemoration Park | Natural and Cultural Gardens and Expo BEAST Ticket
Osaka Expo Commemoration Park | Natural and Cultural Gardens Admission Ticket
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2. Lake Biwa Valley (Shiga)
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from JR Osaka Station.
Shiga
In
Lake Biwa Valley
"teeth,
A mountain resort with a panoramic view of the majestic Lake Biwa
is.
After taking a drive to the base of the mountain, enjoy an aerial stroll on the ropeway.
Located on Mt. Uchimi, which is 1,108 meters above sea level,
Biwako Terrace
"teeth,
A popular spot where you can enjoy a comfortable sense of openness while taking in the spectacular views
.
There is also a café and restaurant where you can relax and enjoy snacks and drinks.
Pets are allowed except in certain areas, and there are plenty of physical activities to keep children active. A fun spot for the whole family That's right.
Address: 1547-1 Kido, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
After enjoying Lake Biwa Valley, We also recommend participating in activities to enjoy on the lake. .
Activity Japan has: SUP or Kayaking in, A tour where you can enjoy a stroll on the lake, including the torii gates of Shirahige Shrine We have all the items you need.
The experience time is 1-2 hours or 2-3 hours in, Plans for ages 4 and up There is also one. Photo gift or Pet-friendly plan There is also.
Enjoying a day trip from Osaka and taking in the activities will make for a memorable day.
[Shiga, Lake Biwa] Visit Shirahige Shrine and the Torii Gate in the Lake by Kayak (120 minutes)
Would you like to go kayaking on Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan? With this plan, you can visit the torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, the oldest shrine in Shiga Prefecture, from the lake. This is a popular tour where you can fully experience the divine torii gate and the vastness of Lake Biwa.
[Shiga / Lake Biwa] Let's go on a hands-free SUP cruise!
The thrill of passing under the Omi Ohashi Bridge and the cruise that takes you close to the ruins of Zeze Castle Park and enjoys the scenery from the Lake Biwa side will surely give you a taste of the new charms of Lake Biwa and a wonderful "out of the ordinary" experience that is so close to you. You can enjoy the pleasure of viewing the town and scenery from the Lake Biwa side at walking speed, something that is close but rarely seen, and feel the comfortable swaying, sunlight, and breeze.
[Lake Biwa SUP experience] Lake Biwa, Kosai SUP, Shirahige Shrine visit plan (2 hours)
A SUP experience tour heading to the mystical Shirahige Shrine with its beautiful, crystal clear water and floating torii gates! In the beautiful western part of Lake Biwa, which boasts the best water quality, you can feel the overwhelming vastness of Lake Biwa and the grandeur of nature while gazing at the horizon. Enjoy the majestic mountains and the beautiful Lake Biwa! You can also take a commemorative photo in front of the torii gate in the middle of the lake! The destination is Shirahige Shrine.
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3. Umeda Sky Building (Osaka)
Osaka
The landmark that represents
Umeda Sky Building
" is a popular spot that offers a variety of fun activities.
There is a paid parking lot nearby that can accommodate 460 cars, so it is easily accessible by car.
It's also recommended for a day trip.
You can enjoy shopping and gourmet food in the building, The "Floor Garden Observatory" on the 40th floor is a perfect spot for a date. .
A spectacular spot with a 360-degree view of Osaka city from about 173 meters above ground You can enjoy different views during the day and at night.
Why not spend some time on the rooftop Sky Walk, enjoying the view or chatting on a bench, for a slightly different experience than usual?
At Activity Japan, you can enjoy both art and spectacular views. " Koji Kinutani Tenku Art Museum (Kinutani Museum of Art)" and " Kuchu Teien Observatory Admission ticket to is available for purchase.
By simply presenting your voucher, you can receive your tickets to both the museum and the observation deck together, ensuring smooth entry on the day.
Address: 1-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
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4. Mount Yoshino (Nara)
From JR Osaka Station, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the expressway.
Mount Yoshino
teeth,
One of Japan's best cherry blossom viewing spots
It is known as:
In addition to the cherry blossoms, the area is also home to beautiful seasonal natural scenery, such as fresh greenery in summer, hydrangeas, and autumn leaves, making it a recommended place for a day trip from Osaka.
In July 2004, the " Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range "but World Heritage Site As a result of this, Mount Yoshino, a sacred place that conveys the history of Shugendo, is visited by many tourists every year.
Address: Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun, Nara Prefecture
In the Yoshino River that flows at the foot of Mount Yoshino, River Activities Enjoy Yes you can.
Rafting
or
Tubing Experience
Here, you can not only go down the river in a boat, but also float with the current or try diving off the rocks, enjoying a whole-body experience in the river.
Plans for ages 4 and up
So it's perfect for family outings.
Besides
An extraordinary experience, such as taking an aerial stroll through the "Aerial Village"
There is also.
Activities that allow you to experience nature up close are also recommended for family outings during summer vacation.
[Nara, Yoshino River] Nara Yoshino River Half-day Rafting
Why not try river rafting in a clear stream near the city? The Yoshino River in Nara is about 60 minutes by train or car from Osaka city. It is a convenient and close-by rafting spot where you can experience rafting!
[Nara, Yoshino River] Nara Yoshino River Walking Tubing
Tube boating is a boat that is more sturdy than a swim ring and you can row around. You can hold hands and drift along without a paddle. You can feel the waves up close because your line of sight is lower than in rafting, so it's full of thrills! It's fun and makes you feel like Issun-boshi. Why not give tubing a try?
[Nara/Yoshino] Spend time in a treehouse! "Aerial Walk," a playground for adults from France
The Sky Walk is the signature spot of the Sky Village. You can experience a walk in the sky in 11 tree houses connected by mesh suspension bridges between the trees. With five areas and an area of 2 hectares, you will feel like you have entered another world and returned to your childhood! If you think it is an athletic facility, you are very wrong... Recommended for those who want to have an exciting time! Organic drinks are available for free
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5. Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park, Awaji Island (Hyogo)
From JR Osaka Station, take the toll road and it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Hyogo
of"
Awaji Island Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park
"Awajishima National Museum of Art and Design" is a
A park where you can experience nature with flowers of all seasons and a vast lawn area
is.
The largest playground equipment in the Kansai region It's also a recommended spot for families with children.
On the way to Akashi Kaikyo Park
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
It is also attractive that you can experience the sensation of running on the sea.
You can enjoy a special atmosphere while taking in the spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea, making it a perfect day trip from Osaka.
That's right.
Address: 8-10 Yumebutai, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
Awaji Island So instead of just relaxing in the park, why not try some of the activities that are available and you can join empty-handed?
At Activity Japan, Cruise fishing, whirlpool viewing cruises, mystery solving walks, weekend-only kayaking and SUP experiences, etc. There are plenty of activities that you can easily participate in without having to bring anything with you.
You can enjoy it casually with your family, couples, or friends, and the experience time is 1-2 hours The cost is about the same as other activities, so it's easy to join in between other outings.
Pets allowed or Photo gift The details of each plan are different. Why not take your family or partner on a weekend drive and create some wonderful memories?
This plan does not support English.
・Cruise fishing Total fee for up to 5 people * Those under 12 years old are counted as 0.5 people * Extension 8,800 yen for 1 hour ・Rod, electric reel, life jacket rental fee = 1,100 yen / 1 set (OK to come empty-handed) ・You can see the Naruto whirlpools from a distance that you can reach out and touch. [Schedule] ① Departure ~ whirlpools (about 10 minutes) ② Whirlpools
Solve the mystery of the demons that appeared in "Flower Village" and escape from the fantasy world! Enjoy the mystery solving game while touring the area where character panels with original illustrations drawn by ufotable, which are Nijigen no Mori originals, are installed! This year, original illustration panels of eight demons will be appearing for the first time. Participants who get lost in the fantasy world will be able to escape from the
We offer kayaking and SUP experiences only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Come join us and enjoy the nature of Awaji Island on a kayak or SUP! ~Schedule~ ① First, we will explain how to ride a kayak or SUP. 10 minutes ② Enter the sea and practice paddling a kayak or SUP. 10 minutes ③ Experience kayaking or SUP in a place with calm waves.
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Day trips from Osaka! 2 hidden spots that can only be reached by car
Osaka I would like to stop by on a day trip from A hidden spot that can only be reached by car We will introduce the following.
Not only can you enjoy the beautiful scenery, but you can also enjoy gourmet food and shopping.
Recommended for weekend getaways for families and couples
is.
Enjoy a pleasant drive at spots that you can stop at freely because you are in a car.
1. Mt. Ibuki Driveway (Shiga)
Speaking of a hidden gem perfect for a day trip from Osaka, it is about 1 hour and 55 minutes away from JR Osaka Station via the toll road.
Shiga
of"
Mt. Ibuki Driveway
"
You can drive up to the 9th station of Mt. Ibuki, one of the 100 famous mountains in Japan.
A 17km long scenic drive course
is.
From the train window, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Biwa and the townscape of Sekigahara, If the weather is good, you can see famous peaks such as Mt. Ontake and Mt. Norikura. Yo.
On the Ibukiyama Driveway, you can enjoy the scenery that changes with the seasons and the sunset over Lake Biwa. Enjoy the unforgettable scenery on your drive.
| Mt. Ibuki Driveway | |
|---|---|
| starting point | 1586 Sekigahara, Sekigahara-cho, Fuwa-gun, Gifu Prefecture |
| the last stop | 1632 Nodayama, Okubo, Maibara City, Shiga Prefecture |
Before or after enjoying the Ibukiyama Driveway, We also recommend participating in activities. .
In the Maibara area at the foot of the mountain, Blueberry picking experience Or, take in the panoramic view of Lake Biwa from the sky. Paragliding Experience You can enjoy the following:
If you enjoy not only the drive but also the experience in nature, your day will be even more fulfilling.
This plan allows you to enjoy blueberries for an unlimited time and all-you-can-eat plan. 900 blueberry stalks and 46 varieties are cultivated, and you can enjoy different varieties depending on the time of your visit from June to August. The fields are covered with weed control sheets and flat, so your shoes won't get dirty and it's easy to walk on. There is no grass growing, so you can enjoy blueberry picking in a comfortable environment in everyday clothes.
This plan does not support English.
Ibukiyama Paragliding School, the only paragliding school in Shiga Prefecture, offers a trial course that even beginners can enjoy. This plan is a half-day course recommended for those who want to try it once.
2. Rokko Garden Terrace (Hyogo)
Approximately 55 minutes from JR Osaka Station via the toll road.
Hyogo
In
Rokko Garden Terrace
"teeth,
An observation complex that spreads out on top of Mt. Rokko at an altitude of about 880m
is.
Kobe or Osaka A scenic spot overlooking the cityscape, Osaka Bay, and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge It is an open space surrounded by nature throughout the four seasons.
The refreshing sky and sea during the day, and the " 10 million dollar night view It is an attractive spot with a breathtaking view that is said to be "the best view in Japan" and which shows different faces depending on the time of day.
The premises include restaurants and cafes, as well as a shop selling souvenirs unique to Mt. Rokko, so you can enjoy dining and shopping while taking in the views.
The nature experience observation deck, a paid facility, Rokko weeping " Enjoy the unique architecture and views.
Rokko Garden Terrace, where you can enjoy a moment out of the ordinary while taking in the mountain views and art, is the perfect spot for a day trip from Osaka.
Address: 1877-9 Gokaiyama, Rokkosan-cho, Nada-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
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A day trip from Osaka! 2 recommended spots to enjoy gourmet food
Osaka I want to go on a day trip from Gourmet spots We will introduce the following.
Local cuisine made with local ingredients or, Facilities that children can enjoy We will introduce you to some great driving spots perfect for outings for families and couples.
1. Roadside Station Tango Kingdom Food Kingdom (Kyoto)
If you want to enjoy gourmet food on a day trip from Osaka, Kyoto ・ Kyotango City In Roadside Station Tango Kingdom "Food Kingdom" " is recommended.
The largest roadside station in western Japan Known as Restaurants where you can enjoy dishes made with plenty of local ingredients and local gourmet food, as well as farm shops and other facilities There are plenty of food-related facilities.
There are also go-karts and athletic facilities on the premises, and the facility is well-equipped with an environment where children can play freely. It is a spot where not only can you enjoy gourmet food, but you can also have fun all day with your family.
Also, There is also a dog run In addition to the dog run, you can also take your dog for a walk on a leash on the spacious lawn. Perfect for outings with your dog That's right.
Address: 123 Tottori, Yaeicho, Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture
2. Kohoku Mizudori Station (Shiga)
If you are planning a day trip from Osaka, we recommend stopping by
Shiga
・
Nagahama City
In
Kohoku Mizudori Station
"
The northern part of Lake Biwa,
A roadside station where you can enjoy nature and gourmet food in the Kohoku area
is.
You can enjoy Hubei cuisine at the restaurant.
"
Kohoku Kirakira Biwamasu Rice Bowl
" and "
Grilled mackerel spaghetti
", named after the migratory bird, the whooper swan.
Tundra Chow Ramen
" Each one is unique.
These are all dishes you'll want to try if you visit.
At the farm shop, Seasonal vegetables and processed foods from the Kohoku region The above items are on sale and are recommended as souvenirs.
There is also a lawn area and benches outside, making it the perfect place to take a break during your drive.
Address: 1731-1 Imanishi, Kohoku-cho, Nagahama-shi, Shiga Prefecture
Top 10 Activities to Enjoy on a Day Trip from Osaka
- 4.6
- (183 reviews and experiences)
Japan's largest "sea athletic park"! At Frolic Sea Adventure Park Awaji Island, you can experience the fun of the sea like never before! The excitement just keeps growing! Last year, it was ranked 2nd in the national rankings out of over 19,000 activities nationwide! (Activity Japan) In the Jalan Play Experience, it was ranked 2nd in the Kansai Water Leisure "
[Lake Biwa SUP experience] Lake Biwa, Kosai SUP, Shirahige Shrine visit plan (2 hours)
- 4.7
- (131 reviews and experiences)
A SUP experience tour heading to the mystical Shirahige Shrine with its beautiful, crystal clear water and floating torii gates! In the beautiful western part of Lake Biwa, which boasts the best water quality, you can feel the overwhelming vastness of Lake Biwa and the grandeur of nature while gazing at the horizon. Enjoy the majestic mountains and the beautiful Lake Biwa! You can also take a commemorative photo in front of the torii gate in the middle of the lake! The destination is Shirahige Shrine.
- 4.9
- (19 reviews and experiences)
***********************Information regarding reservations for Saturdays and Sundays in October and November***********************During the above period, the experience may be canceled at short notice due to the swordsmith's circumstances. If the experience is canceled, you will receive a full refund and will not be able to reschedule to another day.
[Shiga / Lake Biwa] Let's do sunset SUP Yoga in the open-air pool!
- 4.6
- (7 reviews and experiences)
You can safely enjoy SUP Yoga at dusk while basking in the cool sunset without getting sunburned! This is an open-air experience that allows you to enjoy the "out of the ordinary" midsummer sunset. Don't miss this chance to enjoy the ultimate refreshment! Please enjoy the natural and attractive guidance of each instructor, who will also touch upon the charms of Lake Biwa and help you harmonize with nature.
- 4.9
- (45 reviews and experiences)
This plan is for beginners who love the ocean and surfing but don't know how to get started, and allows them to experience the fun of surfing. Feel the waves and take off in the great outdoors of the ocean while learning about the mechanics of waves, the rules and etiquette of surfing! A small group of instructors certified by the Japan Surfing Association and surfing marine safety instructors will
- 4.8
- (7 reviews and experiences)
☆Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Wakayama☆ You will definitely be surprised that there is such a beautiful sea in the Kansai region! The sea of Kushimoto, the southernmost town in Honshu, is blessed with the Kuroshio Current, and you can enjoy tropical coral reefs, many tropical fish, and highly transparent waters. The fish you can see change depending on the season, so you can enjoy it no matter how many times you come.
- 5.0
- (12 reviews and experiences)
Why not make your own chopsticks in a nostalgic space? Make them a memento of your trip to Kyoto, a girls' night out, or a gift for a special someone... You can take home the product you made on the same day.
[Osaka/Wakayama Isonoura Beach] Experience surfing school, beginners welcome
- 5.0
- (12 reviews and experiences)
Come to Isonoura Beach in Wakayama Prefecture and experience surfing without having to bring anything with you! Our experienced instructors will teach you step by step. We welcome everyone, from solo travelers to those with friends and families. If you've always wanted to try surfing but never had the chance, come and join us!
- 4.7
- (31 reviews and experiences)
Among the many canyoning courses offered by Nature Planning, this is the cheapest option and is recommended for first-time visitors. Children from the first grade of elementary school can participate, but adult supervision is required.
A classic marine sport: banana boating. An activity for all ages. Enjoy the scenery at your leisure! Or enjoy the speed and thrills at your leisure (^^♪ Before starting, you will need to meet with the staff. [Reservations and inquiries] 07041611234 marine.sports.ace.amazing@
Refresh your mind with a day trip drive from Osaka!
Day trip driving spots from Osaka was featured.
The driving courses introduced this time allow you to enjoy spectacular views and local gourmet food. Recommended for families and couples on holiday .
Please refer to this article. Osaka Take a day trip from there to refresh your mind and body.
*The content of this article is current as of July 2025.
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