9 day itinerary for Osaka

Itinerary

Let’s craft a fun and exciting 9-day itinerary for your Osaka adventure, packed with shopping, sightseeing, and delicious food. Get ready for a fantastic journey!

## Day 1: Arrival in Osaka

• Morning: Arrive in Osaka and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and get settled.
• Afternoon: Head to Dotonbori for your first taste of Osaka! Stroll along the vibrant streets, take in the neon lights, and grab a quick bite of street food like takoyaki or okonomiyaki.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Dotonbori. Try the famous Glico Man sign for a photo op!

## Day 2: Osaka City Exploration

• Morning: Visit Osaka Castle and explore the beautiful park surrounding it. Don’t forget to check out the museum inside the castle.
• Afternoon: Head to Umeda Sky Building. Take the elevator to the Floating Garden Observatory for stunning views of the city.
• Evening: Dinner in Dotonbori. Try some kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at a local eatery.

## Day 3: Nara Day Trip

• Morning: Take a train to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Nara Park and meet the friendly deer roaming around.
• Afternoon: Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue. Don’t miss the beautiful architecture!
• Evening: Return to Osaka and enjoy dinner in Dotonbori. Sample some delicious ramen to warm up after your day out.

## Day 4: Zoo and Aquarium

• Morning: Visit Osaka Tennoji Zoo. Spend a few hours exploring the various animal exhibits.
• Afternoon: Head to Kaiyukan Aquarium in the Osaka Bay area. It’s one of the largest aquariums in the world, and you’ll love the diverse marine life!
• Evening: Dinner in Dotonbori. Try some grilled seafood or a local izakaya for a cozy atmosphere.

## Day 5: Shopping Day

• Morning: Start your day at Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. This is a great place for street shopping, with a mix of high-end brands and quirky boutiques.
• Afternoon: Continue your shopping spree in Namba. Don’t forget to check out the trendy shops and unique finds!
• Evening: Dinner in Dotonbori. Treat yourself to some delicious street food and maybe a dessert from a local vendor.

## Day 6: Tsutenkaku and Surroundings

• Morning: Visit Tsutenkaku Tower. Enjoy the views and explore the surrounding Shinsekai district, known for its retro vibe.
• Afternoon: Check out the Spa World if you’re in the mood for some relaxation or a unique onsen experience.
• Evening: Dinner in Dotonbori. Try some local favorites like negiyaki (green onion pancake) or a hearty bowl of udon.

## Day 7: Cultural Day

• Morning: Visit Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples. Take your time to soak in the serene atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Explore the nearby Tennoji Park and visit the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts if you’re interested in art.
• Evening: Dinner in Dotonbori. Enjoy a kaiseki meal for a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.

## Day 8: Day Trip to Kyoto

• Morning: Take a train to Kyoto (about 30 minutes). Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic Gion district and maybe catch a glimpse of a geisha. Don’t forget to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic torii gates.
• Evening: Return to Osaka and have dinner in Dotonbori. Try some sweet treats like mochi or taiyaki for dessert!

## Day 9: Last Day in Osaka

• Morning: Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs in Namba Parks or Amerikamura for some unique finds.
• Afternoon: Relax at a café or do some last-minute sightseeing. You could revisit your favorite spots or explore something new.
• Evening: For your final dinner, indulge in a memorable meal in Dotonbori. Celebrate your trip with a feast of your favorite dishes!

Tips:

• Make sure to get an ICOCA card for easy travel on public transport.
• Keep an eye on the weather and adjust your plans accordingly.
• Don’t forget to take lots of photos and enjoy every moment!

Enjoy your trip to Osaka! It’s going to be a blast! 🎉