The Ultimate Kansai Itinerary.: Osaka, Nara, Kyoto & Koyasan
Stays from
Stays from
Osaka
Itinerary
Recommended Hotels
Osaka
Day 1
14h 26mOsaka - Japan's Kitchen & The City of Local Spirit
Osaka is a city full of energy, laughter, comedians and incredible food. Known as Japan's kitchen, it is the perfect place to experience local flavours, from street food in Dotonbori to hidden restaurants loved by locals. Beyond the famous neon lights, Osaka has charming old neighbourhoods, unique shopping, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel at home.
1. A Happy Pancake Shinsaibashi
Japan, 〒542-0086 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nishishinsaibashi, 2-chōme−10−３２ B１F
Want to try fluffy Japanese soufflé pancakes? This is the place. These pancakes are light, soft, and almost melt in your mouth—a fun Japanese café experience.
2. Osaka Dotonbori 30-Minute Sightseeing River Cruise
Osaka
Check out the famous Glico Man sign, try out a Japanese arcade like GiGO, and even sing your heart out at karaoke. The neon lights, giant signs, and lively atmosphere capture Osaka's energy like nowhere else.
3. Hozen-ji
1-chōme-2-16 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Hidden just a few minutes away from the busy streets of Dotonbori, Hozenji feels like stepping back in time. This narrow stone alley and traditional temple offer a quieter side of Osaka that many visitors miss.
4. 551 Horai Honten
3-chōme-6-3 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
When people think of Osaka best food, 551 Horai is one of the first things that comes to mind. Their freshly steamed pork buns are a Kansai favourite, and I highly recommend trying one while exploring Namba. Grab one for a taste!
5. Shinsaibashisuji
Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan
This is the place for shopping. From Onitsuka Tiger and Uniqlo to Japanese drugstores and souvenirs, you could easily spend hours here.
6. Shinsaibashi PARCO
1-chōme-8-3 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan
For anime and gaming fans, this is a must-visit. PARCO has dedicated floors featuring Nintendo, Pokémon, Capcom, and other Japanese pop culture brands.
7. Kirby Café Osaka
Japan, 〒542-0085 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Shinsaibashisuji, 1-chōme−7−１ Main Building, 9階 Daimaru Shinsaibashi
If you want to visit the Kirby Café or Pokémon Café, remember to book in advance! Kirby cafe can booked every 10th of the month for the next month.
8. 自分で焼けるたこ焼き居酒屋 TAKOYAKI LAB
Japan, 〒542-0086 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nishishinsaibashi, 2-chōme−3−１６ EPIC BUILDING, 4F
Takoyaki is what Osaka is most known for. You can cook your own takoyaki here! Definitely a fun experience to try.
9. Shinsekai
2 Chome-5 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Step into old Osaka at Shinsekai. Known for its retro atmosphere, for food, try out the crunchy kushikatsu
10. Kushikatsu Shinsekai
3-chōme-5-17 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
When people come to shinsekai, they always eat Kushikatsu!
11. Osaka Tsutenkaku Tower Slider Experience
Osaka
What is wilder than sliding off a tower? If you want something fun and different, try the Tower Slider at Tsutenkaku. It is a unique way to experience one of Osaka's most iconic landmarks.
12. SPAWORLD HOTEL & RESORT
3-chōme-4-24 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
This is one of the most intensive largest onsen spa world, I love this place. You can immerse yourself and try out so many types of onsen! Western and eastern inspired. Once you overcome the initial embarrassment, nobody cares and you will find a new sense of freedom.
Osaka
Day 2
15h 29m
13. Minoh Falls
2-2 Minookōen, Minoh, Osaka 562-0002, Japan
Minoh Falls is one of my favourite places in Osaka to slow down and enjoy the scenery. The waterfall and the scenic beauty lets you experience another world of Osaka. I recommend it especially during autumn, the maple leaves turn into a painting of red and orange.beautiful.
14. Yuzuriha
2-5 Minookōen, Minoh, Osaka 562-0002, Japan
stop by Yuzuriha for a relaxing deliate kaiseki meal surrounded by nature.
15. Gozabune Ticket Office
2-2 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
Take a ride on the Golden Gozabune boat and enjoy views of the castle walls while learning about Osaka's history. Worth the ride.
16. Osaka Castle
1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
fascinating history, and the surrounding park is beautiful to walk around. I especially recommend visiting during cherry blossom season when the area becomes incredibly scenic.
17. MUJI Grand Front Osaka Store
Japan, 〒530-0011 Osaka, Kita Ward, Ōfukachō, 3−１ グランフロント大阪 ショップ＆レストラン北館 ２－４Ｆ
Almost 4 storey floor of Muji, you can find almost anything. This is the largest MUJI store in osaka filled with home goods, stationery, clothing, and more. You can also stop by MUJI Café for a relaxing break.
18. Umeda Sky Building Kuchu Teien Observatory Ticket
Osaka
stunning panoramic view of the city, especially around sunset when Osaka slowly transforms into a sea of lights.
19. Stardust
Japan, 〒531-6039 Osaka, Kita Ward, Ōyodonaka, 1-chōme−1−８８ 梅田スカイビル タワーイースト39階
Overlooking the beautiful nightview, what about a 8 course dinner or a drink overlooking beautiful osaka?
Osaka
Day 3
10h 5mNara day trip from Osaka - Bowing Deer and Ancient Temples,
Nara, the country's first permanent capital. Famous for its friendly deer and impressive temples, Nara offers a peaceful contrast to the busy cities. Take your time exploring ancient sites, traditional streets, and the beautiful connection between nature, culture, and history.
20. Todai-ji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
406-1 Zōshichō, Nara, 630-8587, Japan
One of the most impressive temples in Japan and home to the Great Buddha statue.
21. Nara Park
Nara, Japan
Feeding the bowing deers are a great experience, and they will also bow to you for a cracker. But remember to show them your palm hands that you don't have any cracker left, and walk away. This will keep both you and the deers safe.
22. Mizuya Chaya
30 Kasuganochō, Nara, 630-8212, Japan
from hot udon and soba noodles in winter to shaved ice in summer, along with traditional sweets. Near nara park.
23. Kasugataisha Shrine
160 Kasuganochō, Nara, 630-8212, Japan
Walk along the lantern-lined paths and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines.
24. Nara: Local Food, Craft Beer & Sake Walking Experience
Nara
Experience Nara through its local food, craft beer, and sake.
25. Osaka Street Kart Tour: Drive Through the City
Osaka
Return to Osaka for the evening and experience the city by go-kart, driving through Amerikamura, Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori and Namba. Excitement overload.