Osaka Japan 4 Day Itinerary

Osaka 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Dotonbori

Morning

Afternoon

  • Visit the famous Glico Man and Kani Doraku billboards at Dotonbori
  • Explore the lively streets of Dotonbori, known for its entertainment, food, and nightlife
  • Take a stroll along the Dotonbori Riverwalk

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Ichiran Ramen, a popular ramen chain with a unique, rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth
  • Explore the Dotonbori area’s many bars and clubs, such as Bar Moonlight or Club Joule

Day 2: Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building

Morning

  • Visit Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
  • Explore the castle’s museum and gardens, which offer great views of the city

Afternoon

  • Take a short subway ride to Umeda Station and visit the Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views of Osaka
  • Explore the nearby Umeda Underground Mall, a massive shopping center with many restaurants and shops

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Kaniya, a popular restaurant serving Osaka-style cuisine, including kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers)
  • Visit the lively Shinsekai district, known for its retro atmosphere and street food

Day 3: Universal Studios Japan

Morning

  • Take a short subway ride to Universal City Station and visit Universal Studios Japan (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
  • Experience thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants within the theme park, such as Three Broomsticks or Universal Monsters Cafe

Evening

  • Return to Dotonbori for dinner at Botejyu, a popular restaurant serving Osaka-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake)
  • Explore the area’s nightlife, including bars and clubs like Bar Bar or Club Asia

Day 4: Ueno and Shitennoji

Morning

  • Take a short subway ride to Ueno Station and visit Ueno Park, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Osaka
  • Explore the nearby National Museum of Art, Osaka, which features a diverse collection of Japanese art (9:30 AM - 5:00 PM)

Afternoon

  • Visit Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
  • Explore the surrounding streets, known for their traditional Japanese shops and cafes

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Kyubey Ginza, a renowned restaurant serving high-quality sushi
  • Return to Kansai International Airport or depart from Osaka Station for your next destination

Things to Know

  • Osaka is known as the “nation’s kitchen” (tenka no daidokoro) and is famous for its food, including takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and more
  • The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and karaoke venues to choose from
  • Osaka is generally a safe city, but be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas

Transportation

  • Subway: Osaka has an extensive subway network, including the Midosuji Line, Chuo Line, and Sennichimae Line
  • Bus: Many bus routes connect major tourist areas, including the Dotonbori Riverwalk and Ueno Park
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but may not have English-speaking drivers

Tips

  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello), “arigatou” (thank you), and “sumimasen” (excuse me)
  • Carry cash, as not all restaurants or shops accept credit cards
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist spots

Other Things of Interest

  • Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a variety of marine life (10:00 AM - 8:00 PM)
  • Spa World: A large public bathhouse with various themed baths and saunas (10:00 AM - 12:00 AM)
  • Osaka Museum of History: A museum showcasing Osaka’s history and culture (9:30 AM - 5:00 PM)