2-day weekend guide to lively Osaka, Japan
Experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity in Osaka.
03 May 2023
As a tourist in Osaka, Japan, expect to immerse yourself in its rich culture, taste its delicious cuisine, and revel in its vibrant nightlife. Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, stroll through the famous Dotonbori district, and marvel at the beautiful cherry blossom trees in the numerous parks around the city. Don't forget to try local delicacies such as takoyaki, ramen, and sushi, and catch a show at the renowned National Bunraku Theatre.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Stay at Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka, it oozes class & luxury
- • Begin at Osaka Castle and witness its majestic history
- • Visit Dotonbori, experience the vibrant nightlife of Osaka
- • Stop at Kuromon Ichiba Market, slurp on yummy Japanese snacks
- • Explore the unique Umeda Sky Building, take the floating escalator to the sky deck
- • End the day at the 360-degree view from Abeno Harukas Observation Deck
- Start the day with breakfast at Café Unizon, get a taste of Japan's food scene
- • Visit the serene Shitennoji temple, admire the architecture & garden
- • Next up, Universal Studios Japan, movie-themed rides and entertainment
- • Stroll around Amerikamura, Osaka's trendy neighborhood
- • Grab lunch at Matsubaya-Kitahorie, try their famous Tonkatsu
- • End the day with a soak in a hot spring at Spa World, unwind in Japanese style
- Explore Japan's vibrant city, Osaka; history, serenity, fun, and vibrant culture blend to appeal to all travelers. Stay at Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka, and begin on day 1 at Osaka Castle. Take in the breathtaking view at Abeno Harukas Observation Deck. Day 2's serenity begins with breakfast at Café Unizon and a visit to the Shitennoji Temple garden. End the day with a soak in a hot spring at Spa World. Osaka awaits you to explore its quirkiness.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Osaka, Japan by plane is to fly into Kansai International Airport, which is located approximately 50 kilometers from downtown Osaka.
Car
Driving from Tokyo to Osaka is not recommended as it requires navigating through densely populated urban areas and is approximately a 7-hour drive. However, if you prefer to drive, the most direct route is to take the Tomei Expressway and then transfer to the Meishin Expressway.
Train
One option to get to Osaka, Japan by train is to take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and is the fastest way to travel between Tokyo and Osaka by train.
Boat
There are no direct ferry services from Tokyo to Osaka. However, you can take a ferry from Tokyo to Kobe Port and then transfer to a train or bus to reach Osaka. The ferry journey takes around 18 hours and is operated by Diamond Ferry.
Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, there are several long-distance overnight bus services that operate between Tokyo and Osaka. One of the best options is the Willer Express, which offers comfortable seats and multiple departure times.