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Osaka
Travel Guide

5C5G Guide > Japan > Kansai > Osaka

Osaka, the central hub of the Kansai region, stands as Japan's second-largest city. It's best known for its bustling streets of Dotonbori, the renowned shopping districts of Umeda and Shinsaibashi, the exhilarating Universal Studios Japan, and, of course, the delectable Osaka specialties like Okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, takoyaki, and crab dishes at Kani Dōraku.

The neighboring prefectures and cities of Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, and Wakayama are all sought-after destinations, conveniently reachable within an hour's train ride. Now, let's take a look at a classic itinerary for a 6 days trip in Osaka.

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Suggested Itinerary

Credit: USJ

Osaka city itself boasts an abundance of attractions and shopping areas, ideal for a fulfilling 2-3 day exploration. With nearby regions like Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara just a short train ride away (around an hour), you may choose to stay in Osaka throughout your trip to avoid unnecessary luggage transfers. This allows for greater convenience and flexibility in your itinerary.

DAY 1
Kansai Airport → Shopping in Umeda → Umeda Night View
DAY 2
Osaka Castle → Tsutenkaku → Dotonbori → Shinsaibashi
DAY 3
Universal Studios Japan
DAY 4
Osaka → Himeji Castle → Kobe (Ijinkan / Chinatown / Kobe Beef) → Osaka
DAY 5
Osaka → Kyoto (Arashiyama / Fushimi / Kiyomizu Temple / Kawaramachi) → Osaka
DAY 6
Osaka → Rinku Premium Outlets → Kansai Airport

If you have a longer stay, consider visiting Arima Onsen, one of Japan's top three ancient hot springs, where you can indulge in the rare local natural hot springs known as the "Golden Bath" and "Silver Bath."

➢ Related Articles:

TOP 20 Things to Do in Osaka: Ultimate Guide for First-Timers!

Top Attractions

Best Area to Stay in Osaka

For those intending to explore other cities extensively, Namba and Umeda serve as the most convenient bases with their excellent railway connections. However, if your focus is primarily within Osaka, Shinsaibashi is a fantastic option. Not only does it offer abundant shopping destinations in close proximity, but it also provides easy access to a wide range of attractions within the city.

    Namba   ✓ transport hub / link to airport

    Centara Grand Osaka

     Hotel Royal Classic Osaka

    Umeda   ✓ transport hub / shopping area

    Hotel Intergate Umeda

     Villa Fontaine Grand Umeda

    Shinsaibashi   ✓ shopping area

    Candeo Hotels Shinsaibashi

     Just Sleep Shinsaibashi

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More Japan Guides

Kanto (Tokyo)  •  Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto)  •  Central Japan (Nagoya)  •  Kyushu (Fukuoka)  •  Hokkaido  •  Okinawa

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