Kyoto

There is certainly no shortage of activities in Osaka, but after spending a while in the city, you may be itching to explore more of the country or want to visit places where life moves a little more slowly. The good news is there are plenty of options close enough to be perfect for a day trip. Uji Located between the more famous cities of Kyoto and Nara is Uji. Many people describe Uji as having a similar atmosphere to Kyoto but with fewer crowds. It also has many unique things to offer, including Ujigami Shrine, whose main hall is believed to be the oldest surviving Shinto shrine building in Japan; Byodo-in Temple and its Phoenix Hall, part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto World Heritage Site; and the Nintendo Museum (entry by advance online lottery only). If you enjoy green tea, Uji is a must-visit because it is one of the most celebrated names in matcha. Okayama Another historic city is Okayama, with sites including its castle (completed in 1597, rebuilt in 1966 after its destruction in 1945, and nicknamed Crow Castle for its black facade) and Korakuen Garden, considered one of the most important traditional gardens in…