Osaka Japan 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Thursday

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka Station
  • 9:00 AM: Check-in at Hotel Keihan Universal Tower, a modern hotel located in the heart of Osaka
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Osaka Castle (,), a majestic castle that played a crucial role in Japan’s unification
    • Admission: 600 JPY ( approx. $5 USD)
    • Take a stroll around the surrounding park and enjoy the beautiful gardens

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Try some delicious Takoyaki at Dotonbori, a popular street food in Osaka
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the colorful streets of Dotonbori and take a walk along the Dotonbori River
    • Be sure to check out the famous Glico Man billboard

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Kani Hoken, a world-famous crab restaurant
    • Try their signature dish, the “Crab Kaiseki” ( approx. 2,000 JPY or $18 USD per person)
  • 8:00 PM: End your day with a stroll along the Dotonbori River and enjoy the evening atmosphere

Transportation

  • Train: Take the JR train from Osaka Station to Shinsaibashi Station ( approx. 5 minutes)
  • Bus: Take the bus from Osaka Station to Dotonbori ( approx. 10 minutes)

Day 2: Friday

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Shinsekai District, a retro-style shopping street that’s home to some of Osaka’s best street food
    • Try some delicious Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki at Tengu

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Visit the Umeda Sky Building, a unique skyscraper with an observation deck
    • Admission: 1,500 JPY ( approx. $14 USD)
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the surrounding area and visit the nearby Osaka Museum of History

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Naniwa Tei, a traditional Japanese restaurant with delicious Kaiseki cuisine
    • Try their signature dish, the “Kaiseki Course” ( approx. 5,000 JPY or $45 USD per person)

Transportation

  • Train: Take the JR train from Osaka Station to Shinsekai Station ( approx. 10 minutes)
  • Bus: Take the bus from Osaka Station to Umeda Sky Building ( approx. 15 minutes)

Day 3: Saturday

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Amerikamura District, a trendy shopping street that’s home to some of Osaka’s best cafes and restaurants
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the nearby Namba Parks, a popular shopping and dining complex
    • Admission: free

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Kissa Nai**da Cafe, a unique cafe with delicious coffee and sandwiches
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the nearby Abeno Harukas, Japan’s tallest building
    • Admission: 1,000 JPY ( approx. $9 USD)

Transportation

  • Train: Take the JR train from Osaka Station to Namba Parks Station ( approx. 5 minutes)
  • Bus: Take the bus from Osaka Station to Amerikamura District ( approx. 10 minutes)

Things to Know

  • Language: Japanese is the primary language spoken in Japan, but many locals in tourist areas speak English.
  • Currency: The Japanese yen (JPY) is the official currency of Japan.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered impolite.

Tips

  • Be sure to try some delicious street food at Dotonbori, Shinsekai District, and Amerikamura District.
  • Visit the famous Glico Man billboard at Dotonbori River.
  • Take a stroll around the beautiful gardens of Osaka Castle.
  • Explore the colorful streets of Dotonbori and visit the nearby Namba Parks.

Other Things of Interest

  • Universal Studios Japan: Located in the heart of Osaka, this popular theme park is home to some of the world’s most beloved franchises, including Harry Potter, Minions, and Jurassic Park.
  • Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Located on the waterfront, this aquarium features a stunning array of marine life from around the world.
  • Shinsekai District: This retro-style shopping street is home to some of Osaka’s best street food and unique shops.