Planning your first trip (or 5th ) to Osaka? You’re in the right place! This base5 day Osaka itinerary covers all the best places to see, eat, shop, hidden gems and everything you need to know to experience the fun energy of Japan’s kitchen and food capital. Whether you’re chasing neon lights, hunting down street eats, or searching out a day trip to a nearby rural city, Osaka is the perfect place to start exploring the Kansai region.
Osaka Itinerary: Key Information
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Limousine Bus (Shared): Estimated (¥1000-¥1550)
Private Transfers: (Approx ¥15000)
Train: Catch the Nankai Express, Nankai Rail or JR Kansai Rapid Service (¥920 – ¥1,490)
WHERE TO STAY
Our Top 4 x Choices
Bridge Hotel Shinsaibashi This hotel offers free nightly ramen, sake, beer, ice cream and is close to Dotonbori & Namba.
Kaneyoshi Ryokan a traditional Ryokan with tatami floors futon beds and views overlooking the Dotonbori canal.
Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower – A luxury hotel with a rooftop onsen with incredible views of the city.
Super Hotel Namba Nipponbashi is another great value hotel in an amazing location in Namba. It also has a happy hour with free drinks and free snacks!
TRAVEL PASSES
JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass
JR West Kansai – Hiroshima Area Pass
MAJOR ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS
Tip: In Japan it is ESSENTIAL that you pre purchase your attractions in advance as many are likely to sell out.
Tip: For up to 10% discount on Klook – you can use our code: TRAVELLIVNKLOOK. Using our affiliate links or codes does not result in any extra cost to you. but helps support our content creation.
Universal Studios (make sure you get a fast pass)
Teamlabs Botanical Garden Osaka
Solaniwa Onsen Ticket In Osaka
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan — One of the most impressive aquariums in the world, featuring spectacular tanks and themed marine exhibits.
ESSENTIAL APPS
Klook app (Trains, Tours & Attractions) get 10% off with our code TRAVELLIVNKOOK
We use a Wise Card for the best Currency exchange rates
We use Apple Maps or Google Maps to navigate
Japan Esim
