3 day itinerary for Osaka

Itinerary

Osaka is a vibrant city with a fantastic mix of modern attractions and beautiful green spaces. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that balances urban exploration with some lovely parks and nature.

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Osaka

Morning: Osaka Castle Park

• Start your day at Osaka Castle Park. The park is a beautiful green space surrounding the iconic Osaka Castle. You can stroll through the gardens, enjoy the cherry blossoms (if you’re visiting in spring), and take some stunning photos of the castle itself. Don’t forget to check out the castle museum for a bit of history!

Lunch: Dotonbori

• Head over to Dotonbori for lunch. This area is famous for its street food! Try some takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Afternoon: Namba Parks

• After lunch, take a leisurely walk to Namba Parks, a shopping complex with a rooftop garden. The greenery and unique architecture make it a lovely spot to relax. You can grab a coffee and enjoy the views of the city.

Evening: Dotonbori Nightlife

• Return to Dotonbori in the evening to experience its vibrant nightlife. The neon lights and bustling atmosphere are a must-see! You can also take a river cruise to see the city from a different perspective.

## Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

• Start your day with a visit to Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest shrines. The serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens make it a peaceful spot to explore.

Lunch: Local Eatery

• Enjoy lunch at a local eatery nearby. Try some traditional Japanese dishes like soba or udon noodles.

Afternoon: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and Temmabashi Park

• After lunch, head to Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, which is surrounded by lovely gardens. Then, take a stroll through Temmabashi Park, which is right next to the shrine. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the greenery.

Evening: Umeda Sky Building

• For the evening, visit the Umeda Sky Building. The floating garden observatory offers breathtaking views of the city, especially at sunset. Grab dinner at one of the restaurants in the area afterward.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Minoo Park

Morning: Minoo Park

• On your final day, take a short train ride to Minoo Park. This beautiful natural park is famous for its hiking trails and stunning waterfall. The walk to the waterfall is about 3 km and is lined with lovely trees and the chance to see wild monkeys!

Lunch: Momiji Tempura

• Don’t miss trying momiji tempura (maple leaves fried in batter) from one of the local vendors in Minoo. It’s a unique treat!

Afternoon: Relax in the Park

• Spend the afternoon relaxing in the park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. You can also visit the Minoo Park Museum if you’re interested in learning more about the area’s natural history.

Evening: Return to Osaka

• Head back to Osaka in the evening. For your last dinner, consider visiting Shinsaibashi for some shopping and dining. It’s a great way to wrap up your trip with some last-minute souvenirs and delicious food!

Tips:

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• Check the weather before your trip, as it can affect your park visits.
• Don’t hesitate to try local delicacies; Osaka is known as the "Kitchen of Japan" for a reason!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Osaka! Enjoy your trip! 🌸✈️