Osaka 4 days itinerary
Osaka, Japan’s second-largest metropolis, is famed for its vibrant nightlife, bustling business areas, and delectable street food. This four-day guide to Osaka is designed to ensure you experience the top attractions, capture the essence of the city’s most photogenic spots, and indulge in some of Japan’s finest culinary delights. Let’s dive into the adventure
Getting to and around Osaka
Arriving in Osaka by air is incredibly straightforward. There are two main airports: Osaka International Airport, commonly known as Itami, which primarily handles domestic flights, and Kansai International Airport. Located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, Kansai International is about an hour’s journey from downtown Osaka. For a convenient transfer, take the Haruka Express, which leaves Kansai Airport every 30 minutes and makes stops at Tennoji and Shin-Osaka stations. It’s a good idea to purchase your tickets ahead of time to skip the lines.
For those traveling from other major cities like Tokyo, Osaka is easily accessible via the Shinkansen bullet train. The Tokaido Shinkansen line can whisk you from Tokyo to Osaka in just 2.5 hours. And if you’re coming from Kyoto, the Limited Express trains, either Haruka or the Thunderbird, offer a quick 35-minute connection.
Navigating Osaka is a breeze thanks to its excellent transportation network.
Subway: The city’s subway system is renowned for its speed, cleanliness, and efficiency. To simplify your travel, use prepaid cards like Icoca, Suica, or Pasmo, or utilize mobile apps for ticket purchases. Subway fares range from $1.30 to $2.80 per ride.
Bus: If you’re looking for an affordable option, the bus is your go-to at about $1.60 per ride. It’s also a fantastic way to see the city, though be prepared for crowded conditions during peak hours.
Bicycle: For an enjoyable and environmentally friendly mode of transport, consider renting a bicycle. You’ll find rental shops near major tourist spots, making it easy to explore the city at your own pace.
Taxi: While taxis are on the pricier side, they are convenient for specific destinations. Remember to have your destination’s address written in Japanese to assist the driver. While most drivers are friendly and eager to help, keep in mind that many may not be fluent in English.
When to visit Osaka?
Visiting Japan and Osaka is particularly delightful during spring and autumn when the weather is usually mild, albeit a bit unpredictable. For packing tips, our ‘What to Pack for Japan’ guide offers great suggestions. Travelers going from Tokyo to Osaka via the Shinkansen or planning day trips should consider getting the JR pass. Our detailed guide explains the JR pass and how to purchase it.
To stay connected, renting a Wi-Fi device or a SIM card is advisable for uninterrupted internet access. These are budget-friendly and can either be delivered to your hotel or picked up at the airport. During our trip to Osaka, we opted for the Osaka Amazing Pass. This pass grants access to over 40 attractions and includes free usage of trains and buses. The two-day pass, priced at only $27, offers great value and convenience for exploring the city.
4 day itinerary for Osaka
On the first day of your Osaka itinerary, you’ll explore Kita, meaning “north” in Japanese. Also known as Umeda, named after one of its primary train stations, Kita is the vibrant daytime epicenter of Osaka. As the city’s key transportation and business hub, it offers an abundance of dining and shopping opportunities. This bustling district serves as an exciting introduction to your Osaka adventure, setting the tone for an immersive experience in the city’s lively atmosphere.
Day 1
Umeyda sky building
Start your day with breakfast, then make your way to Umeda Sky Building. This impressive structure stands at 173 meters and offers stunning panoramic views of Osaka. Its most notable feature is the Floating Garden Observatory, located on the 38th floor and connecting the building’s two towers. For photography enthusiasts, an evening visit just before 10 PM is a treat, as you can capture the city awash in vibrant colors and lights. The observatory is open from 10 AM to 10:30 PM, providing ample opportunity to experience its breathtaking views.
Osaka castle
Osaka Castle, dating back to 1583 and spanning approximately 15 acres, is a must-see historical site. Inside, you’ll find a museum-like setting with various exhibitions that bring the castle’s rich history to life. The expansive castle grounds and traditional Japanese gardens add to the unforgettable experience of visiting Osaka Castle. Entrance to the castle is free of charge. In spring, the area becomes particularly enchanting with numerous cherry blossom trees in bloom, providing a perfect backdrop for trying popular Japanese street food from nearby vendors. The castle is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore and enjoy its beauty.
Tenjimbashi-Suji Shopping Street
Tenjimbashi-suji Shopping Street, a sprawling 2.6 km long covered arcade, is a bustling hub of shops, eateries, and cafés. Dedicate a few hours to wander through this lively area, marveling at the array of merchandise and sampling the delightful street food offerings. Feel free to engage with local vendors – most are more than willing to chat about their culinary creations, even if there’s a language barrier. Tenjimbashi-suji also serves as an ideal spot for a quick lunch or snack, offering a taste of Osaka’s vibrant food scene.
Nakanoshima-Koen Park
Opened in 1981 as Osaka’s first public park, this delightful green space is particularly enchanting during the rose bloom seasons of May-June and October, thanks to its stunning rose gardens. Located on an island, the park is encircled by a variety of restaurants and cafés, making it a perfect spot to relax with a drink and some food after a long walk. Be sure to visit the “&Island” café, conveniently situated just off the Sendannokibashi Bridge, for a refreshing break amidst your explorations.
National museum of arts
Situated beneath the ground, the National Museum of Art in Osaka specializes in modern Japanese and international contemporary art. For details on ticket prices and visiting hours, check their official website. It’s important to note that the museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly. This venue offers a unique underground exploration of artistic expression, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Osaka science museum
Adjacent to the National Museum of Art, the Osaka Science Museum is an ideal destination for families, especially those with children. It houses a planetarium and four floors packed with interactive exhibits that engage and educate. Additionally, there’s a shop where you can find unique, quirky items and souvenirs. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit on other days of the week to enjoy this fun and educational experience.
Where to eat:
In Kita, you’ll find Kiji, an Okonomiyaki restaurant known for its budget-friendly and delicious offerings. For those craving pork cutlet (tonkatsu), Takuya is a must-visit spot in the same area. Just remember, reservations are necessary to dine here. Another unique culinary experience in Kita is Gunjo, a quaint vending machine ramen restaurant, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
Day 2
On the second day of your Osaka adventure, you’ll dive into the heart of Minami, Osaka’s most lively district. This area is a bustling hub of creativity, especially noted for its vibrant nightlife, an array of delectable dining options, and endless shopping avenues. Get ready to be immersed in a world of oversized advertisements and dazzling neon-lit streets, capturing the unique essence of Osaka’s energetic vibe
Midosuji
Begin your day with a refreshing start and indulge in a shopping excursion along Midosuji, Osaka’s main thoroughfare. This street is the epicenter of luxury shopping in Osaka, akin to Tokyo’s Ginza, boasting renowned brands and upscale boutiques. While shopping might not be everyone’s preferred activity, Midosuji also offers a delightful setting for a morning coffee break and a tasty breakfast bite. It’s a perfect spot to experience the city’s vibrant lifestyle, whether you’re browsing high-end stores or simply enjoying the bustling atmosphere.
Hozenji Yokocho
Imagine wandering through a quintessentially atmospheric Japanese alleyway. Hozenji Yokocho, an 80-meter-long and 2.7-meter-wide narrow street, offers just that. This stone-paved lane transports you to a different era, reminiscent of Kyoto’s historic quarters. It stands out as one of Osaka’s most picturesque streets, making it an essential stop on any Osaka itinerary. A stroll down Hozenji Yokocho is more than just a walk; it’s a step back in time and a true highlight of the city’s charm.
Doguyasuji Arcade
Doguyasuji, reminiscent of Tokyo’s Asakusa arcades, is a haven for kitchen and cooking supply enthusiasts. It’s an excellent spot to pick up practical Japanese souvenirs. During a two-week stay in Japan, many travelers find themselves captivated by the selection here, from ramen bowls and chopsticks to exquisite norens. If you’re mindful of suitcase space, a sake set from Doguyasuji makes for a compact and memorable take-home gift, encapsulating the essence of Japanese culinary culture.
Amerika Mura
Amerika Mura is Osaka’s answer to Tokyo’s Harajuku. This lively shopping district is a hub of teenage fashion, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Targeted towards a younger crowd, particularly teens and those in their early 20s, the area is filled with trendy and fashionable merchandise.
If you’re in the mood for a bite, Amerika Mura doesn’t disappoint. The district is dotted with a variety of budget-friendly eating spots and charming cafés, making it the perfect place to grab a snack or a refreshing drink while soaking in the lively ambiance.
Den Den town
This area in Osaka is akin to Tokyo’s Akihabara, known for its electronics and cosplay cafés. It’s a hotspot for tech products like computers and cameras, including Fujifilm lenses, and also offers a range of pop culture items and manga-related merchandise
Dotonbori
Dotonbori comes alive at night, transforming into a dazzling display of lights and neon, making it one of Osaka’s most visually stunning spectacles. This bustling area, popular among both locals and tourists, is the perfect place to experience Osaka’s vibrant street food scene, though be prepared to wait in line at some of the best eateries. The Dotonbori Arcade is a haven for budget shopping, offering sweets and cosmetics. Here, you can immerse yourself in a lively, bustling atmosphere, feast on delicious street food, and marvel at the extravagant restaurant facades, adorned with giant faces and sea creatures. It’s an ideal spot for a delightful dinner accompanied by a beer or sake. For photographers, a tip: capture the essence of the street from the Ebisu-bashi Bridge for a memorable snapshot of your visit.
Where to eat?
Tsuki no Odori, a gastropub located near Kujō Station, is known for its delicious yakitori and tempura chicken. It’s a great spot to experience authentic Japanese pub fare. Meanwhile, Ichiran Dotonbori, situated close to Namba Station, is a renowned ramen restaurant famous for its unique vending machine ordering system. This eatery is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor some of the best ramen in the area.
Day 3
The Osaka Bay Area holds a special place as one of the more serene locales in the city, distinct for its tranquil ambiance, which is quite rare in a bustling metropolis like Osaka. The area’s almost ethereal quietness at night particularly stands out, offering a unique and somewhat eerie experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Osaka aquarium
Begin your day with a visit to the Osaka Aquarium, accessible from Osakako Station. Renowned as one of the largest aquariums globally, it offers a rare opportunity to observe whale sharks up close. The sheer size of the aquarium and the diverse range of marine life on display are bound to amaze you. An interactive highlight is the “petting aquarium” towards the end of the tour, where visitors can get up close with stingrays and are even permitted to gently touch them. This experience is a hit not just with children but also with adults, who often find it equally thrilling.
Tempozan Ferris Wheel
An essential part of any Osaka trip is a ride on the Ferris Wheel. For under 1000 yen, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Osaka Bay from a great height. It’s quite tall, so it might not be the best choice for those with a fear of heights. For a unique experience, you can opt for a carriage with a transparent floor, although be prepared for longer queues for these. The Ferris Wheel opens simultaneously with the Aquarium, so it’s a smart idea to visit early, especially on clear days, to beat the crowds.
Mount Tenpo
Mount Tenpō, a unique and somewhat quirky attraction, holds the title of being Japan’s lowest mountain, standing at just 4.53 meters tall. This unusual elevation was created in 1831 from the earth excavated during the dredging of the Ajigawa river. Over time, the area became adorned with cherry blossoms and pine trees, and new shops began to emerge. While the dining options near Mount Tenpō primarily cater to western tastes or are geared towards tourists, it’s advisable to venture back to Downtown Osaka for a more authentic and varied culinary experience.
Where to eat?
Tempozan Marketplace is a bustling hub featuring a variety of shops and restaurants, where you can savor an array of Japanese dishes. Nearby, you’ll find Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho, a food court styled to evoke the 1960s and 70s. It’s a great place to indulge in street food and snacks, offering a nostalgic culinary journey through Japan’s past.
Day 4
Your fourth day in Osaka is dedicated to the thrilling world of Universal Studios, a major attraction that draws countless visitors to the city. Spending a full day at this theme park, you can immerse yourself in a variety of epic rides and entertainment. This experience is not just about the rides; it’s about stepping into a realm of adventure and excitement, where every turn brings a new and exhilarating experience.
Whole day at Universal studio Japan
If you’re a fan of Jurassic Park or Harry Potter, spending a day at Universal Studios Japan is a must. It’s essential to book your tickets ahead of time and aim to get there early. Once you arrive, prioritize securing your entry for the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride, as it’s incredibly popular. The park is filled with a wide range of rides and attractions, making it easy to fill an entire day with excitement. From the adrenaline rush of a boat drop to escape dinosaurs, to a magical ride through the stars, and the exhilaration of a backward rollercoaster, there’s something for everyone. Beyond the rides, the Harry Potter section, with its themed shops, street entertainment, and restaurants, is a major draw for visitors, offering an immersive experience into the wizarding world.
Where to eat?
Hog’s Head, a Harry Potter-themed pub, offers a wide array of drinks, including the classic butterbeer beloved by fans. For a taste of traditional British cuisine, visit the Three Broomsticks, where you can enjoy classic fish and chips, pumpkin juice, and, of course, butterbeer. Both places provide an immersive Harry Potter experience with their themed décor and menu.
