Osaka Trip: 7 Days 6 Nights Itinerary
Osaka is one of Japan's top travel destinations, second only to Tokyo. This trip is a relaxed one, spanning several days, with a day trip to Kyoto included. If you're planning a trip to Osaka, don't forget to like and share this post to save it for later!
Day 1: Arrive in Osaka
📍 Kuromon Market: The first stop is Kuromon Market, a paradise for food lovers. From freshly sliced sushi and sashimi to crab, grilled meats, and desserts, there's plenty to try. Sample a little from various stalls, but note that many don't have seating, so you'll likely need to eat nearby. Avoid eating while walking.
📍 Namba Yasaka Shrine: A must-visit sacred site in Osaka for prayers and blessings. It's about a 20-minute walk from Kuromon Market. The shrine is popular for worship, buying charms, and drawing fortune slips.
📍 Shinsaibashi: A bustling shopping street filled with restaurants and shops.
🏨 Accommodation: Shinsaibashi Grand Osaka Hotel, just a 5-minute walk to Shinsaibashi. The rooms are medium-sized, with space for luggage, and daily cleaning service is provided.
💰 Average cost per person: 1000฿/night
Day 2: Kyoto Day Trip (40-minute train ride)
📍 Kyoto Nishiki Market: The first stop is Nishiki Market, a famous food market in Kyoto. Snoopy fans shouldn't miss Snoopy Osha, offering adorable Snoopy-themed desserts and merchandise.
📍 Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Take a bus to this iconic temple, which requires a 20-minute uphill walk. Along the way, you'll find shops like Snoopy Chocolate and Sumikkogurashi. In April, the area is bustling with tourists and locals. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and the temple offers stunning views and charm shops.
📍 Ninenzaka Street: After visiting the temple, stroll down Ninenzaka Street, a quieter path with shops and eateries. The route offers a view of Hokan-ji Temple, a recognizable landmark.
📍 Kyoto Bridge: Before heading back, enjoy a relaxing evening by the Kamo River, where locals often sit by the water.
Day 3: Osaka Castle - Hep Five - Tsutenkaku - Dotombori
- A laid-back day in Osaka with flexible plans.
📍 Osaka Castle: A must-visit historical site with samurai exhibits. The top floor offers panoramic views.
📍 Hep Five: A large shopping mall with a Ferris wheel on top. It's a shopper's paradise with stores like Kiddyland, Uniqlo, and Nike.
📍 Tsutenkaku: A famous street with the Tsutenkaku Tower and numerous restaurants, perfect for dinner.
Day 4:
📍 Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Before heading to Universal Studios in the afternoon, visit this impressive aquarium. Highlights include penguins, dolphins, seals, and the massive whale shark in a 360-degree tank.
📍 Half-day Universal Studio: Spend the afternoon exploring Universal Studios, featuring characters like Minions, Harry Potter, Spider-Man, and Snoopy. Enjoy the attractions and stay until closing.
Day 5: Full-day Universal Studio
- With an Express Pass for 4 rides, skip the long lines and enjoy attractions like the Mario Zone. The Harry Potter zone is a standout, offering an immersive magical experience. A separate post will cover Universal Studios in detail.
Day 6: Shopping Day - Shinsaibashi & Namba Park
- Spend the last full day in Osaka shopping and dining.
📍 Kushikatsudaruma: A famous skewer shop known for its Iberico pork skewers.
- Queue for Ichiran Ramen, though the taste may vary by branch. Try the new beef broth recipe.
- Visit Namba Park for its rooftop garden with stunning evening views. Shops like Tower Records and Loft are also located here.
Day 7: Rinku Town - Airport
📍 Rinku Outlet/Marble Beach: After checking out, store your luggage at the airport and explore the outlet mall with numerous brand-name stores at great prices. Grab a meal before your flight.
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