8 day itinerary for Osaka

Itinerary

Osaka is a fantastic city with a rich culture, delicious food, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here’s a fun and engaging 8-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create lasting memories!

## Day 1: Arrival and Dotonbori Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Osaka! Check into your hotel and get settled. If you’re staying in the Namba area, you’re in for a treat!

Afternoon: Head to Dotonbori, the vibrant heart of Osaka. Stroll along the canal, take in the neon lights, and snap a photo with the iconic Glico Man sign.

Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at one of the many restaurants. Try some local favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Don’t forget to grab some dessert at a nearby crepe shop!

## Day 2: Osaka Castle and Surrounding Park

Morning: Visit Osaka Castle, a stunning historical landmark. Explore the castle grounds and take in the beautiful views from the top. The kids will love the surrounding park, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Afternoon: After lunch, head to the Osaka Museum of History nearby. It’s interactive and engaging, making it a hit with families.

Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can share various small dishes.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Nara

Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara, Japan’s first capital. Visit Nara Park, where you can meet the friendly free-roaming deer.

Afternoon: Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue. The kids will be amazed! Afterward, grab lunch at a local café.

Evening: Return to Osaka and have a relaxing dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

## Day 4: Osaka Aquarium and Tempozan Marketplace

Morning: Visit the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan), one of the largest in the world. The kids will love the interactive exhibits and the mesmerizing jellyfish display!

Afternoon: After the aquarium, head to the Tempozan Marketplace for lunch. There are plenty of family-friendly options, and you can even do some shopping!

Evening: Take a ride on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel for stunning views of the city as the sun sets.

## Day 5: Cultural Day in Osaka

Morning: Visit the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest shrines. The architecture is unique and beautiful, and the grounds are peaceful.

Afternoon: Head to the Osaka Science Museum, which is very interactive and perfect for kids. They’ll love the hands-on exhibits!

Evening: Have dinner in the Umeda area. Consider trying a kaiseki meal for a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.

## Day 6: Shopping and Kuromon Market

Morning: Spend the morning shopping in Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s premier shopping district. There are plenty of stores that cater to families.

Afternoon: Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market for lunch. Sample fresh seafood, fruits, and local delicacies. It’s a great way to experience Osaka’s food culture!

Evening: After a busy day, enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby ramen shop.

## Day 7: Osaka’s Art and Culture

Morning: Visit the National Museum of Art, Osaka. The museum has a great collection of contemporary art, and the building itself is a work of art!

Afternoon: Head to the Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, especially if you’re there during the Tenjin Matsuri festival (July). It’s a beautiful shrine with a lovely garden.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly sushi restaurant. Kids love watching the sushi go by on conveyor belts!

## Day 8: Relax and Departure

Morning: Spend your last morning at Spa World, a family-friendly onsen (hot spring) complex. It’s a fun way to relax before your journey home!

Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or a visit to a local café for a sweet treat.

Evening: Head to the airport and say goodbye to Osaka, taking with you wonderful memories of your family adventure!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Osaka! Each day is packed with fun activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Safe travels! 🌏✈️