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, as we have several days to explore, including a day trip to Kyoto. 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 bustling seafood market with a wide variety of food options, including fresh sushi, sashimi, crab, grilled meats, and desserts. Try sampling small portions from different stalls. Note that many stalls don’t have seating, so you might need to eat nearby—walking while eating is not recommended.
📍 Namba Yasaka Shrine: A sacred site in Osaka where visitors come to pray and seek blessings. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Kuromon Market. The shrine is popular for its unique architecture and offers fortune-telling and amulets for purchase.
📍 Shinsaibashi: A lively shopping street filled with restaurants and stores.
🏨 Accommodation: Shinsaibashi Grand Osaka Hotel, located just a 5-minute walk from 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: Start your day at Nishiki Market, a famous food market in Kyoto. If you’re a Snoopy fan, don’t miss Snoopy Osha, which offers adorable Snoopy-themed desserts and merchandise.
📍 Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Take a bus to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The walk up takes about 20 minutes, with plenty of shops along the way, including Snoopy Chocolate and Sumikkogurashi. The temple offers stunning views and sells amulets. April is a busy time with both tourists and locals.
📍 Ninenzaka Street: After visiting the temple, stroll down Ninenzaka Street, a charming area with shops and eateries. It’s less crowded than the path leading up to the temple and offers views of Hokan-ji Temple.
📍 Kyoto Bridge: Before heading back, enjoy a relaxing evening by the Kamo River at Kyoto Bridge, where locals often sit by the riverside.
Day 3: Osaka Castle - Hep Five - Tsutenkaku - Dotombori
📍 Osaka Castle: A must-visit landmark in Osaka. Inside, you’ll find historical exhibits and samurai armor. The top floor offers panoramic views.
📍 Hep Five: A large shopping mall with a Ferris wheel on top. It’s a great spot for shopping, with stores like Kiddyland, Uniqlo, and Nike.
📍 Tsutenkaku: A famous street with the Tsutenkaku Tower and various restaurants, perfect for dinner.
Day 4:
📍 Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Spend your morning at Kaiyukan Aquarium, home to adorable penguins, dolphins, and the highlight—whale sharks. The 360-degree viewing experience is mesmerizing.
📍 Half-day Universal Studio: In the afternoon, visit Universal Studios Japan. Explore themed areas featuring Minions, Harry Potter, Spider-Man, and Snoopy. Spend the evening enjoying the park until closing time.
Day 5: Full-day Universal Studio
- Enjoy a full day at Universal Studios with Express Passes for four rides, saving time on long queues. Don’t miss the Mario Zone and Harry Potter World, which feels like stepping into a magical realm. A separate post will cover Universal Studios in detail.
Day 6: Shopping Day - Shinsaibashi & Namba Park
📍 Kushikatsudaruma: Try skewered fried dishes at this iconic restaurant. The Iberico pork is a must-try.
- Queue for Ichiran Ramen, though the taste may vary by branch. Don’t miss the new beef soup option.
- Visit Namba Park, which features a 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 of the hotel, store your luggage at the airport and explore Rinku Outlet, which offers branded goods at great prices. Marble Beach is also nearby for a relaxing stroll before your flight.