Osaka, Japan-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Osaka, Japan

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Dotonbori

  • Morning: Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX) and take the Nankai Electric Railway to Nanba Station ()
  • Accommodation: Check-in at a hotel or hostel near Dotonbori, such as Hotel Keihan Universal Tower or Namba Parks Hotel
  • Lunch: Try some delicious street food at Dotonbori, such as takoyaki or okonomiyaki
  • Afternoon: Explore Dotonbori, a popular entertainment district known for its neon lights, street performers, and unique attractions like the Glico Man sign and the Kani Doraku crab statue
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Kani Doraku, a popular restaurant serving fresh seafood

Day 2: Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building

  • Morning: Take the subway to Osakajo Station () and visit Osaka Castle
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Japanese cuisine at Tsurutontan, a popular restaurant near the castle
  • Afternoon: Visit the Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views of the city
  • Evening: Explore the lively nightlife of Shinsaibashi, known for its bars, clubs, and karaoke venues

Day 3: Universal Studios Japan

  • Morning: Take the JR train to Universal City Station () and spend the day at Universal Studios Japan
  • Lunch: Enjoy theme park food, such as burgers or churros
  • Evening: Return to Dotonbori for dinner and entertainment

Day 4: Namba Yasaka Shrine and Shinsekai

  • Morning: Visit Namba Yasaka Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine in the heart of Osaka
  • Lunch: Try some local street food at Shinsekai, known for its retro atmosphere and affordable eats
  • Afternoon: Explore Shinsekai, including the famous Tsutenkaku Tower
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Kushikatsu Tanaka

Day 5: Kyoto Day Trip

  • Morning: Take the train to Kyoto Station () and visit famous attractions like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkaku-ji Temple
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Kyoto cuisine, such as kaiseki or shojin-ryori
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic Gion district, known for its geisha culture and traditional Japanese architecture
  • Evening: Return to Osaka and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 6: Sumo Spring Tournament (March only)

  • Morning: Attend the Sumo Spring Tournament at the Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium ()
  • Lunch: Try some sumo-themed food, such as chankonabe (sumo wrestler stew)
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Osaka Museum of History
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some last-minute time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market, such as the Kuromon Ichiba Market
  • Afternoon: Return to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for departure

Things to Know

  • Osaka is known for its food culture, so be sure to try local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu
  • The city has a vibrant nightlife, but some areas can be quite crowded and noisy
  • Many attractions offer English language support, but it’s still a good idea to learn basic Japanese phrases

Transportation

  • Osaka has an efficient public transportation system, including subways, JR trains, and buses
  • Consider purchasing an ICOCA card for convenient travel
  • Taxis are also available, but may not have English-speaking drivers

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting shrines or temples
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions from locals or station staff

Other Things of Interest