Unleashing Osaka's Charm in 5 Days!

Experience the best of Osaka without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Osaka, Japan on a limited budget can be a fun and exciting experience. Budget accommodations can be found throughout the city, and transportation by subway is affordable and efficient. Visiting local street markets and exploring the city's rich culture and history can be done on a budget while still enjoying all that Osaka has to offer.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Osaka!

  • Check into the Hotel Sunroute Osaka Namba, with cozy rooms and convenient location.
  • Grab a quick bite at the nearby Ichiran Ramen, where you can customize your broth, noodle texture, and spice level.
  • Visit the bustling Dotonbori district, with its flashy neon signs and mouth-watering street food.
  • Step into the famous Glico Running Man sign for a fun photo opportunity.
  • Stroll along the picturesque canals of the Namba area, and watch the boats go by.
Day 2

Exploring Osaka's Historical Landmarks

  • Take a train to Osaka Castle, a magnificent fortress dating back to the 16th century.
  • Learn about the castle's history at the museum inside, and climb up to the observation deck for a panoramic view.
  • Visit the nearby Shitennoji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan.
  • Check out the trendy Abeno Harukas shopping complex, with plenty of fashion, beauty, and dining options.
  • End the day with a visit to the Umeda Sky Building, a futuristic skyscraper with a rooftop observatory.
Day 3

A Day in the Life of Osakans

  • Start the day with a visit to a local fish market, such as the Kuromon Ichiba Market, and sample some fresh seafood.
  • Head to the Umeda district for some shopping and people-watching at the bustling train station.
  • Take a break at a cozy cafe, such as the Owl Cafe Watafukuya, where you can sip on coffee while cuddling with owls.
  • Check out the lively Shinsekai area, known for its retro vibes and delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
  • Enjoy some karaoke at a local joint, such as the Big Echo Karaoke chain, where you can sing your heart out in a private room.
Day 4

Day Trip to Kyoto

  • Take a day trip to nearby Kyoto, a historic city with plenty of temples, gardens, and traditional handicrafts.
  • Visit the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its iconic torii gates and mountain trails.
  • Explore the quaint Higashiyama District, with its preserved alleys, souvenir shops, and tea houses.
  • Learn about Kyoto's cultural heritage at the Nishijin Textile Center, where you can see kimono weaving and dyeing demonstrations.
  • Savor a bowl of Kyoto-style ramen or some wagashi (Japanese sweets) at a local eatery.
Day 5

Farewell, Osaka!

  • Take a leisurely stroll in the peaceful Osaka Castle Park, with its cherry blossoms and greenery.
  • Discover the quirky side of Osaka at the Nipponbashi Den Den Town, a mecca for otaku culture and electronics.
  • Indulge in some takoyaki (octopus balls) at the famous Takoyaki Juhachiban, where the balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
  • Visit the trendy Kitashinchi area, with its chic bars and restaurants, for a fancy farewell dinner.
  • Bid farewell to Osaka with a final look at the cityscape from the top of the Abeno Harukas observation deck.

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.

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