Osaka Japan 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Osaka
Morning:
- Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kujir meshi Kintetsu Takashimaya in the Kintetsu Department Store.
- Head to Osaka Castle and explore its beautiful grounds and museums. Don’t forget to take a lot of photos!
Afternoon:
- Take a short train ride to the trendy neighborhood of Amerikamura (American Quarter). Here, you can find fashion boutiques, vintage stores, and the famous Tsūjō no Hiroba (Dotonbori Street Crossing Plaza) with its Instagram-worthy neon lights.
- Visit Dotonbori for lunch. Try the famous Takoyaki (Octopus balls) or Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) at one of the many street food stalls.
Evening:
- Take a river cruise from Tsūjō no Hiroba (Dotonbori Street Crossing Plaza) to Universal City, home of the famous Universal Studios Japan.
- Have dinner at one of the restaurants in Universal City Food Street, offering a variety of cuisines.
Night:
- Head back to downtown Osaka and enjoy a drink at one of the many bars in the Yokocho (alleys) or the bustling Umeda Sky Building.
Day 2: Discovering Osaka’s Modern Side
Morning:
- Start your day with a coffee and a pastry at Café Kitsune in the chic neighborhood of Umekita.
- Visit the Museum of Oriental Art to learn about traditional Japanese art and culture.
Afternoon:
- Head to Abeno Harukas and take the elevator to the 60th floor for panoramic views of Osaka from the Harukas 300 Observatory.
- Visit the nearby Shinto shrine, Tenmangu for a peaceful escape in the middle of the city.
Evening:
- For dinner, try Kushikatsu Daruma in the Shinsekai district. This famous Osaka eatery specializes in kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables).
- Explore the vibrant nightlife of Shinsekai, with its many bars and entertainment venues.
Transportation:
- Osaka has an extensive public transportation system that includes subways, trams, and buses. Consider getting a Icoca card for easy travel around the city.
Things to know:
- Osaka is known as Japan’s “nation’s kitchen” and offers a wide variety of delicious food. Don’t miss trying local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and tako senbei (octopus crackers).
- Japanese people are very polite and respectful. It’s customary to say “Itadakimasu” before eating, meaning “I humbly receive this food.”
- When visiting a shrine or temple, remember to bow slightly and clap your hands twice before praying.