Osaka On A Budget: 3 Days Of Adventure

Exploring Osaka without breaking the bank: a wallet-friendly adventure waiting to happen.

21 June 2023

On a limited budget, a trip to Osaka, Japan is still possible! Highlights include visiting Osaka Castle, eating delicious street food in Dotonbori, and walking through the vibrant Shinsekai district. Accommodations can be found at budget hostels or capsule hotels for a unique experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Check in to Hotel Chuo Oasis, a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Osaka
  • Start the day with breakfast at Tsurutontan Umeda, a popular spot for their udon noodles
  • Visit Osaka Castle, a beautiful historical landmark with traditional Japanese architecture
  • Stroll through the vibrant Dotonbori district and try local street food such as takoyaki and kushikatsu
  • End the day with a visit to Umeda Sky Building to see a panoramic view of the city at night
Day 2

Cultural Immersion

  • Take a morning walk through Shinsekai, an area known for its traditional Japanese atmosphere
  • Eat lunch at Issen Yoshoku, a restaurant serving traditional Osaka-style okonomiyaki
  • Visit Shitennoji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Japan with beautiful gardens and architecture
  • Explore Kuromon Ichiba Market, a busy indoor market with fresh seafood and local products
  • Finish the day with a visit to the National Bunraku Theatre to see a traditional Japanese puppet show
Day 3

Day Trip to Nara

  • Take the train to Nara, a beautiful city known for its temples and deer park
  • Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a giant Buddha statue
  • Explore Nara Park and feed the friendly deer that roam freely
  • Eat lunch at a local restaurant serving venison dishes
  • See the colorful Kasuga-taisha Shrine, known for its many lanterns and intricate architecture
  • Enjoy your journey in Osaka!

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.

More travel plans

Budget-Friendly Adventure: Osaka in 2 Days!

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