Osaka is a fantastic base for exploring beyond its bustling city streets. With its excellent transportation links and a variety of nearby attractions, it’s easy to find memorable 2-day trips that suit different interests. Whether you’re craving a traditional onsen experience, a spiritual pilgrimage, or a scenic winter escape, Osaka offers options that are both accessible and authentic. We particularly love the 1 Night and 2 Days Trip to Kinosaki Onsen and Temple for its relaxing hot springs combined with cultural sights, and the Mount Fuji 2 Day Climbing Trip for those seeking a mountain adventure. These trips give you a taste of Japan’s rich traditions and natural beauty, all within a short travel time from Osaka.
If you’re planning a quick getaway, this guide helps you compare seven of the best 2-day tours, highlighting what makes each unique. We’ll cover everything from budget-friendly passes to immersive spiritual journeys, so you can pick the one that fits your mood and travel style perfectly.
Quick Overview of the Best 2-Day Tours in Osaka
Our list features a diverse mix of tours, including relaxing hot spring trips, cultural explorations, scenic mountain hikes, and lively festivals. For a soothing soak and temple visit, the Kinosaki Onsen and Temple tour stands out. Interested in discovering historic Nara alongside Osaka? The Osaka-Nara Discovery Pass offers great value. Adventure seekers might prefer the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage or the Mount Fuji climb, each providing a distinctive experience. For winter wonderland fans, the Shirakawago & Hida No Sato Tour highlights scenic snowy landscapes. Finally, those wanting to experience Japan’s lively festivals can consider the Awa Dance Festival. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. 1Night and 2Days Trip to Kinosaki Onsen and Temple
At number 1 on our list, this trip to Kinosaki Onsen offers a classic Japanese hot spring experience with a cultural twist. Just two and a half hours from Osaka, Kinosaki has been famous for its onsen for over 1,000 years. What makes this tour special is the chance to enjoy soto-yu, the practice of hopping between multiple outdoor baths without staying overnight in a hotel, and truly soak in local traditions. The itinerary includes a visit to Ankokuji Temple, renowned for its breathtaking view from the temple window, which is especially stunning in November when the dodan-tsutsuji blooms.
On the second day, you’ll explore another temple and enjoy soba noodles at a Kawadoko restaurant beside the river—an experience that combines scenic dining with local flavor. The tour’s focus on authentic hot spring hopping and cultural sites makes it ideal for travelers seeking relaxation coupled with a taste of Japan’s spiritual side. The admission tickets are extra, but the overall experience is highly rated and well worth the $445.27 price tag.
Bottom line: This tour combines relaxation, culture, and scenic beauty, perfect for anyone wanting a serene escape close to Osaka.
$445.27 per person
2. Osaka-Nara: 2-Day Discovery Pass
Number 2 offers a budget-friendly way to explore both Osaka and Nara with a handy discovery pass. For just $24 per person, this pass grants free entry to multiple top attractions, making it an excellent choice if you want flexibility and variety without breaking the bank. The northern route includes highlights like the Umeda Sky Building and HEP FIVE shopping mall, both great for city views and shopping. The southern route takes you to Kishiwada Castle and Hasedera Temple, offering a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
The pass is designed for easy access, with the QR code allowing hassle-free entry to each spot. Ideal for travelers who enjoy a paced, self-guided adventure, this tour lets you pick and choose your favorite attractions. It’s best suited for budget-conscious visitors who want to maximize sightseeing in a short timeframe. Keep in mind: since this is a pass and not a guided tour, it’s less about cultural insight and more about convenience.
Bottom line: A perfect option for independent travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace and want a diverse taste of Osaka and Nara without hefty costs.
$24 per person
3. Kumano Kodo 2 Day Tour from Osaka
Number 3 takes you into the spiritual heart of Japan with a pilgrimage along the Kumano Kodo trails—recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tour, priced at $633.77 per person, is tailored for those interested in Japan’s religious and natural landscapes. Over roughly two days, you’ll walk scenic sections of the ancient pilgrimage routes, visiting Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha—two of the three Kumano Grand Shrines. These sites are deeply sacred and offer a glimpse into traditional purification rituals.
The tour also includes a seafood breakfast at a local fish market, adding a culinary touch to the spiritual journey. The small-group format allows for a more intimate experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights into the region’s history and spiritual practices. Note that the tour may cancel if the minimum of four participants isn’t met, so it’s best for flexible travelers who love walking and culture.
Bottom line: For travelers drawn to Japan’s spiritual traditions and scenic mountain trails, this tour offers a meaningful experience that combines nature, history, and local flavor.
$633.77 per person
4. 2-Day Bus Tour to Shirakawago & Hida No Sato Winter Illumination
Number 4 is a scenic winter adventure through Gifu Prefecture, focusing on iconic Shirakawago and Hida Takayama. Priced at $320.15, this 2-day tour is perfect for those wanting to experience Japan’s snowy landscapes and traditional architecture. The highlight is walking through Shirakawago, a UNESCO site famous for its gassho-style houses that look like hands pressed together in prayer. During winter, the town transforms into a white wonderland, with the added magic of the Hida No Sato winter illumination.
On the first day, you’ll transfer from Osaka by bus, stopping for a hands-on Omi beef sushi experience at Sekigahara. The second day features a visit to the Hida No Sato open-air museum, which lights up beautifully at night, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The tour also includes a relaxing hot spring visit at your hotel, offering a cozy end to your day.
Bottom line: This trip is ideal for winter lovers and those wanting a cozy, picturesque escape with authentic regional sights.
$320.15 per person
5. Awa Dance Festival and Shodoshima 2 Days Bus Tour from Osaka
At number 5, this tour combines Japan’s largest dance festival, the Awa Odori, with a visit to Shodoshima Island. Priced at $339.76, it’s perfect for travelers interested in lively cultural festivals and scenic island scenery. During the festival, you’ll enjoy reserved seating to watch dancers and musicians parade through Tokushima Prefecture streets, experiencing local traditions up close.
The second day takes you to Otsuka Museum of Art—famous for its detailed ceramic reproductions of masterpieces—and the beautiful landscapes of Shodoshima. Although the tour runs only in summer (August 11-15), it’s a chance to see Japan’s vibrant dance and cultural expression in full swing.
Bottom line: Best suited for festival lovers and art enthusiasts looking for an energetic and cultural two-day experience close to Osaka.
$339.76 per person
6. Mount Fuji 2 Day Climbing Trip with Hut Stay Departing from Osaka
Number 6 invites the adventurous to climb Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji over two days. For $307.09, this tour features a self-guided ascent via the Yoshida Route, often considered the most beginner-friendly trail. The trip includes a mountain hut stay, providing a warm shelter and a chance to rest before reaching the summit. This is a flexible, independent climb, suitable for those with some hiking experience or a strong desire to tackle Japan’s highest peak.
The tour departs from Osaka, highlighting the logistical convenience for travelers based there. You get a chance to enjoy breathtaking views from the summit and experience the thrill of standing on Japan’s highest point. Note that the tour is not guided for the climb itself but includes all necessary arrangements for a safe and comfortable ascent.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers eager to conquer Mount Fuji while enjoying the convenience of a pre-arranged hut stay and self-guided ascent.
$307.09 per person
7. Mt Koya 2 Day Walking Tour from Osaka
Finally, for those interested in spirituality and monastic life, the Mt Koya walking tour is a highlight. This 2-day experience allows you to stay overnight at a Shukubo (temple lodging), participate in prayers, and explore the central complex of Koyasan with a private guide. Key sites include Danjo Garan, Konpon Daito Pagoda, and Okunoin, Japan’s largest cemetery.
The tour is designed for walkers who want an immersive experience into Shingon Buddhism. You will also enjoy Shojin Ryori, traditional vegetarian temple cuisine. The guide’s local knowledge and the opportunity to stay overnight in a temple make this tour a meaningful, intimate trip into Japan’s spiritual heart. While the price is higher at $424.69, the experience’s depth justifies it for culturally curious travelers.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a quiet, contemplative retreat with cultural and spiritual insights into Japanese Buddhism.
$424.69 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Osaka 2-Day Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical fitness. If you want relaxation and culture, the Kinosaki Onsen trip offers soothing baths and temple views. For cultural exploration with a budget, the Osaka-Nara Discovery Pass provides flexibility without cost. If you’re spiritually inclined or eager for a scenic pilgrimage, the Kumano Kodo is unbeatable. Winter scenery lovers should look at the Shirakawago & Hida No Sato tour, especially if snow appeals to you. And for those wanting to experience Japan’s lively festivals, the Awa Odori tour combines dance, art, and local color.
Always check the booking window and seasonal timings. Tours like the Awa Dance Festival have specific dates, so plan ahead. For scenic trips and mountain hikes, prepare appropriately with good footwear and weather gear. Consider your interests—whether that’s hot springs, historic temples, or mountain summits—and pick the tour that excites you most.
In The Sum Up
From relaxing onsens to mountain adventures and lively festivals, Osaka’s surroundings offer a wide range of compelling 2-day trips. If your goal is ultimate relaxation, the Kinosaki Onsen tour remains a top choice. For a spiritual or cultural deep dive, the Kumano Kodo or Mt Koya experiences are hard to beat. Budget travelers will appreciate the flexibility of the Osaka-Nara Discovery Pass, while winter enthusiasts can’t miss the snow-draped beauty of Shirakawago.
No matter what your interests, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot on these popular excursions. Whether you want a peaceful hot spring stay or an active mountain climb, these tours promise authentic experiences that will enrich your Osaka visit.