3 day itinerary for Osaka

Itinerary

Osaka is a fantastic city for families, filled with delicious food, stunning temples, and impressive castles. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that balances culture, history, and, of course, mouth-watering cuisine!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Osaka

Morning: Osaka Castle

• Start your day at the iconic Osaka Castle. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The castle itself has a museum inside that showcases the history of Osaka and the castle's significance. Kids will love exploring the grounds and taking photos with the impressive structure!

Lunch: Dotonbori Street

• After your castle visit, head to Dotonbori, a vibrant area known for its neon lights and street food. Grab some takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) from one of the many stalls. It’s a fun way to experience local flavors!

Afternoon: Shitennoji Temple

• Next, visit Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples. The serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture will captivate the whole family. Don’t forget to check out the five-story pagoda and the lovely gardens.

Evening: Namba Parks

• For dinner, head to Namba Parks, a shopping and entertainment complex. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants to choose from. After dinner, take a stroll through the rooftop garden for a lovely view of the city.

## Day 2: Adventure and Culture

Morning: Universal Studios Japan

• Get ready for a day of fun at Universal Studios Japan! This theme park has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to character meet-and-greets. Make sure to check out the Wizarding World of Harry Potter if your family is a fan!

Lunch: Inside the Park

• Enjoy lunch at one of the many themed restaurants inside the park. There are plenty of options, from burgers to Japanese cuisine, so everyone can find something they love.

Afternoon: Continue at Universal Studios

• Spend the afternoon enjoying more attractions. Don’t miss the parade if you can; it’s a fantastic experience for the whole family!

Evening: Dinner in the Umeda District

• After a fun-filled day, head to the Umeda District for dinner. Try a local favorite, kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), at one of the many restaurants. The kids will love the variety of flavors!

## Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning: Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)

• Start your day at the Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest in the world! The kids will be mesmerized by the diverse marine life, including the impressive whale shark. It’s both educational and entertaining!

Lunch: Tempozan Marketplace

• After the aquarium, grab lunch at the nearby Tempozan Marketplace. There are plenty of family-friendly options, including sushi and ramen.

Afternoon: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

• Next, visit Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan's oldest shrines. The unique architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a lovely spot to explore. Kids can enjoy the open spaces and traditional atmosphere.

Evening: Relax at Spa World

• For a relaxing end to your trip, head to Spa World, a family-friendly onsen (hot spring) complex. They have various themed baths and even a water park area! It’s a great way to unwind after a busy few days.

Dinner: Local Izakaya

• Finish your trip with dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub). Many izakayas offer a variety of small dishes, so you can try a bit of everything. It’s a fun way to wrap up your Osaka adventure!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the opening hours and any reservation requirements for attractions.
• Consider getting an ICOCA card for easy travel on public transport.
• Don’t forget to try some local snacks like mochi and melon bread while you’re out and about!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family trip to Osaka! Enjoy every moment! 🍣🏯🎢