5 day itinerary for Osaka

Itinerary

Osaka is such a vibrant city with a perfect mix of modern attractions and traditional culture. With your group of young couples, you’re in for a fantastic time! Here’s a fun and engaging 5-day itinerary for your trip from November 10-14:

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Namba

November 10 (Friday)

• Morning: Arrive at Kansai International Airport around 8 AM. After clearing customs, take the Nankai Airport Line to Namba Station (about 45 minutes). Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Late Morning: Head to Dotonbori, the bustling entertainment district. Stroll along the canal, snap a pic with the iconic Glico Man sign, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
• Lunch: Grab some street food! Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) from local vendors.
• Afternoon: Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade for some shopping. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and trendy fashion.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) in Namba. Try some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sake!
• Night: If you’re up for it, check out the nightlife in Namba. There are plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy!

## Day 2: Universal Studios Japan

November 11 (Saturday)

• Morning: Have an early breakfast and head to Universal Studios Japan. Aim to arrive by 8:30 AM to maximize your day.
• All ## Day: Enjoy the park! Don’t miss attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Minion Park. Make sure to grab a Universal Express Pass to skip the lines for popular rides!
• Lunch: There are plenty of themed restaurants inside the park. Try the Three Broomsticks for a magical meal!
• Evening: After a fun-filled day, have dinner at CityWalk Osaka, just outside the park. There are various restaurants to choose from.
• Night: If you’re not too tired, consider catching the night view of the Osaka skyline from the Umeda Sky Building.

## Day 3: Cultural Exploration

November 12 (Sunday)

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle. Explore the beautiful grounds and the museum inside the castle.
• Lunch: Head to the Nakanoshima area and enjoy lunch at a café along the river.
• Afternoon: Visit the Osaka Museum of History nearby to learn about the city’s rich past. Afterward, take a stroll through Nakanoshima Park.
• Evening: Head to Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples. It’s beautiful at sunset!
• Dinner: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner (multi-course meal) at a local restaurant to experience authentic Japanese cuisine.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Kyoto

November 13 (Monday)

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Kyoto (about 30 minutes). Start your day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant near the shrine. Try yudofu (tofu hot pot) for a light and healthy option.
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Then, head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for a magical walk through the towering bamboo.
• Evening: Return to Osaka and have dinner in the Umeda district. Try some kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) for a fun dining experience.
• Night: If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan for a unique nighttime experience.

## Day 5: Last-Minute Shopping and Departure

November 14 (Tuesday)

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and check out of your hotel. Head to Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, the longest shopping street in Japan, for some last-minute shopping and souvenirs.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at a local café or try some more street food!
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest shrines, or relax at a nearby café.
• Departure: Head back to Kansai International Airport for your flight home, filled with wonderful memories!

Tips:

• Make sure to get an ICOCA card for easy travel on public transport.
• Check the weather forecast for November; it can be a bit chilly, so pack accordingly!
• Don’t forget to take lots of photos and enjoy every moment with your friends!

Have an amazing trip to Osaka! If you have any questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask!