3 day itinerary for Osaka

Itinerary

Osaka is a fantastic city with a vibrant culture, delicious food, and plenty of sights to see. Let’s create a relaxed 3-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Osaka

Morning:

• Start at Osaka Castle: Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle. The castle opens at 9 AM, so you can enjoy a peaceful stroll around the castle grounds and the beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the castle against the backdrop of the city!

Lunch:

• Dotonbori District: Head over to Dotonbori for lunch. This area is famous for its street food. Try some takoyaki (octopus balls) or okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) from one of the many stalls. Grab a seat by the canal and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Afternoon:

• Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade: After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. It’s a great place to browse shops, from high-end brands to quirky boutiques. You can also stop for a coffee at one of the many cafes.

Evening:

• Dotonbori at Night: As the sun sets, return to Dotonbori to see the neon lights come alive. Take a stroll along the canal, and don’t miss the famous Glico Man sign! Treat yourself to dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) and enjoy some local sake.

## Day 2: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine: Start your day with a visit to one of Japan’s oldest shrines, Sumiyoshi Taisha. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it worth the trip. Take your time to explore the grounds.

Lunch:

• Local Café: Find a cozy café nearby for lunch. Try a Japanese-style curry or a bento box for a taste of local flavors.

Afternoon:

• Osaka Museum of History: Head to the Osaka Museum of History for a fascinating look at the city’s past. The museum is well laid out, and you can take your time exploring the exhibits. The view from the top floor is also stunning!

Evening:

• Umeda Sky Building: Make your way to the Umeda Sky Building for sunset. The floating garden observatory offers breathtaking views of the city. Afterward, you can have dinner in the nearby Umeda district, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants to choose from.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Nara

Morning:

• Travel to Nara: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Start your day at Nara Park, where you can see the famous free-roaming deer. They’re quite friendly and love a good snack!

Lunch:

• Nara’s Local Cuisine: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Nara. Try some kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) for a unique taste of the region.

Afternoon:

• Todai-ji Temple: Visit Todai-ji, home to the Great Buddha statue. The temple is impressive, and the surrounding area is perfect for a leisurely walk. Take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Evening:

• Return to Osaka: Head back to Osaka in the late afternoon. For your final dinner, consider visiting a local ramen shop or a kaiseki restaurant for a more traditional dining experience.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Get an ICOCA card for easy travel on public transport.
• Relax: Don’t rush! If you find a spot you love, feel free to linger a little longer.
• Stay Hydrated: Osaka can be warm, so keep a bottle of water handy as you explore.

Enjoy your trip to Osaka! It’s a city that’s sure to leave you with wonderful memories. If you have any other questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask!