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Osaka on a Budget: 4 Days of Culture & Adventure

Experience the charm of Osaka without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visitors on a limited budget can experience the best of Osaka by exploring its historical and cultural sites like Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple. They can also enjoy street food at Dotonbori and affordable shopping at Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street. Accommodation can be affordable at budget hostels and hotels in areas like Namba and Shin-Imamiya.

Travel plan

• Check-in at Hotel WBF Kitahama where the rooms are cozy and affordable.
• Take a stroll through the retro-Americana vibes of America Mura where street-style fashion and vintage shops keep the neighborhood youthful.
• Follow the aroma of spices and wagyu beef, and try Osakan cuisine at Kuromon Market, where fresh seafood and Japanese sweets are aplenty.
• End the day with a tranquil visit to the Osaka Castle, beautifully lit-up and surrounded by lush gardens.

• Hop on the charmingly dinky Sakaisuji train to Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, a local's favorite for quirky fashion and affordable souvenirs.
• Catch a glimpse into Osaka's past at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, which recreates the streets of Osaka from various periods.
• Head to the Shinsekai neighborhood, a melting pot of cultures and dining options, where you can ride a retro Tsutenkaku Tower elevator to an observation deck to see the city views from above.
• At night, visit the Dotonbori district, where the Glico Running Man sign and the Kani Doraku crab sign sparkle amidst neon lights, and indulge in local takoyaki and okonomiyaki specialties.

• Take a peaceful stroll through the minimalist beauty of the Neyagawa River Park, where seasonal flowers and foliage bring color to the serene landscape.
• Explore the tranquil Temple of the Flourishing Law, or Shitenno-ji, one of the oldest temples in Japan, and soak in the rich history and serenity.
• Take a train to the nearby mountainous town of Minoh, famous for its scenic waterfall and leafy hiking trails.
• Treat yourself to a plate of Minoh's famous momiji tempura, or maple leaf-shaped fried treats enjoyed with green tea.

• Visit the Osaka Museum of History, where you can take an interactive tour of the city's past and present, and enjoy stunning views of the city from the rooftop garden.
• Head to the Sekai no Yamachan izakaya chain for some spicy chicken wings, a local favorite.
• Explore the vibrant street art of the Shinsekai area, where murals and graffiti add pops of color and humor to the urban landscape.
• Round off the trip with a visit to the Sakai Traditional Industrial Hall, where you can experience traditional crafts and join fun workshops to create your own souvenirs.