Osaka Japan 5 Day Itinerary

Osaka Travel Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Arrival & Explore Dōtonbori

  • Arrive at Kansai International Airport or Osaka International Airport.
  • Check-in at your preferred hotel, such as the Hotel Keihan Universal City, near Universal Studios Japan.
  • Visit Dōtonbori: Stroll along the famous entertainment district, known for its neon lights, street food stalls (Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki are must-tries!), and iconic Glico Running Man sign.
  • Evening: Take a riverboat cruise to see the brightly lit-up buildings.

Day 2: Universal Studios Japan

  • Spend the whole day at Universal Studios Japan. Enjoy popular attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Mayhem, and Jurassic Park - The Ride.
  • For dinner, have a meal at one of the themed restaurants in the park or head back to Dōtonbori for more food options.

Day 3: Tempozan Harbor & Osaka Aquarium

  • Morning: Head to Tempozan Harbor and explore Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. It’s one of the largest public aquariums in the world, home to various marine species.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Suspended Spaceship UFO for panoramic views of Osaka Bay and Awesome Island.
  • Evening: Explore Shinsekai district, try Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered food) at Doraku or similar restaurants.

Day 4: Osaka Castle & Umeda

  • Morning: Visit Osaka Castle and learn about its history. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the castle park.
  • Afternoon: Head to Umeda (Kita) district and check out Abeno Harukas, Japan’s tallest building, for shopping, dining, and an observatory with stunning views of Osaka.
  • Evening: Dinner at a restaurant in the Umeda district or try Kobe beef at a local Kobe-style steakhouse.

Day 5: Traditional Experiences

  • Morning: Visit Shitennoji Temple and learn about the history of Buddhism in Japan.
  • Afternoon: Participate in a traditional tea ceremony at Cha no Dōdai. Booking is required in advance.
  • Evening: Enjoy your final Osaka night in the Amerikamura district, known for its street art and fashion boutiques, or revisit your favorite spots from earlier in the trip.

Things to Know:

  • Japanese currency is Yen (JPY). Credit cards are accepted at many places but it’s good to have cash on hand for smaller stores and food stalls.
  • Osaka is famous for its street food, so don’t miss out on trying different snacks as you explore the city.
  • Japan’s metro system is efficient and easy to use. Get an ICOCA card for travel within Kansai region.
  • English is less commonly spoken compared to Tokyo, but many restaurants and shops cater to tourists and have some English signage or menus.

Enjoy your Osaka adventure!