Osaka 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Osaka Itami Airport (ITM)

Arrive at Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) from Jakarta.

Clear customs and immigration.

Follow signs for airport transfer to your accommodation. The flight arrives in the evening, so consider pre-booking a taxi or checking train/bus schedules.

Transfer to Hotel & Check-in

Take a limousine bus or train from ITM to your hotel in Osaka.

Check into your accommodation and settle in.

Dotonbori Exploration & Dinner

Experience the vibrant nightlife, neon lights, and incredible street food of Dotonbori.

Enjoy a late dinner at one of the many restaurants.

Try local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Look for the Glico Man sign!

Osaka Early Morning Tour

Start your day discovering Osaka’s top highlights before the crowds arrive!

This walking tour takes you through Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking. An excellent way to see many key sights with a guide.

Lunch in Shinsekai

Enjoy lunch in the retro-futuristic district of Shinsekai, known for its unique atmosphere and kushikatsu restaurants.

Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) is a must-try here.

Explore Osaka Castle

Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of Osaka and a historical landmark.

Explore the castle grounds and museum.

The castle interior is a modern museum, offering great views from the top floor.

Osaka Sake & Takoyaki Cooking

Enjoy cooking Osaka's best street food, Takoyaki, with a local guide's secret recipe and special ingredients including Wagyu and cheese.

Learn about sake with tasting.

A fun, interactive culinary experience perfect for understanding local food culture.

Ramen and Gyoza Cooking Class

Learn to make popular Japanese ramen noodles from scratch and delicious gyoza dumplings in a hands-on cooking class in Osaka's Dotonbori area.

Perfect for food lovers, you'll get to enjoy your creations for lunch.

Shinsaibashi Shopping

Explore Shinsaibashi-suji, Osaka's premier shopping street.

Find fashion, souvenirs, and electronics.

A covered shopping arcade that's great for any weather.

Osaka Night Walk: Umeda Food & Pub

Join a Umeda pub adventure, discovering three unique izakaya through retro arcades, underground alleys, and sleek skyscrapers—diving into Osaka like a local.

Try Osaka’s iconic foods and enjoy izakaya culture.

This tour offers a great way to experience Osaka's bustling nightlife and hidden food spots.

Samurai Training Experience KENDO

Practice authentic Kendo in a real Japanese dojo in central Osaka.

A beginner-friendly program with friendly, patient instruction in English.

No prior experience required. An immersive cultural experience.

Lunch in Osaka

Enjoy a final lunch in Osaka before heading to Kyoto.

Travel from Osaka to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) or a local train from Osaka to Kyoto.

The journey is quick and efficient.

Check-in to Kyoto Accommodation

Arrive in Kyoto, transfer to your hotel, and check in.

Take some time to relax before the evening.

Dinner in Kyoto

Enjoy your first dinner in Kyoto, perhaps trying some traditional Kyoto cuisine.

Kyoto is famous for its kaiseki (multi-course) and yuba (tofu skin) dishes.

Kyoto Station Building

Start your day exploring the modern marvel of Kyoto Station, a bustling hub with shopping, dining, and an observation deck offering city views.

Useful for navigating and finding initial information. Has a department store (The Cube) and shopping areas.

Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine

Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding through the forest up Mount Inari.

Walk through a portion of the torii gate paths.

It can get crowded, so arriving earlier is better. The entire trail takes a few hours, but even a short walk is rewarding. Free entry.

Lunch near Fushimi Inari

Enjoy lunch at one of the many local eateries near Fushimi Inari, offering specialties like inari sushi (sushi rice in seasoned fried tofu) and udon noodles.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.

Wander through the charming Higashiyama district leading up to the temple.

The walk to the temple is lined with traditional shops selling souvenirs and sweets. Book tickets upon arrival.

Gion District Exploration & Dinner

Stroll through Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district.

Experience the traditional atmosphere, historic wooden machiya houses, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko. Enjoy dinner in the area.

Remember to be respectful and refrain from chasing or photographing geiko/maiko without permission. Many traditional restaurants are located here.

Nishiki Market Exploration

Explore Kyoto's famous 'Kitchen of Kyoto', a vibrant covered market street offering all kinds of food, from fresh seafood and produce to traditional Japanese sweets and street food.

Try some local snacks and delicacies like takoyaki, matcha sweets, and tsukemono (pickles).

Kyoto Station Building Visit

Discover the modern architectural marvel of Kyoto Station.

It houses a department store, numerous shops, restaurants, a hotel, and even an observation deck with city views.

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the station complex.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

Walk through the iconic tunnel of thousands of vermilion torii gates dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice.

The hike to the summit offers beautiful views of Kyoto.

Wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking and uphill climbing involved. Free admission.

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience the atmospheric Pontocho Alley, a narrow lane packed with restaurants and bars, many offering views of the Kamo River.

Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine.

Pontocho is known for its traditional wooden architecture and occasional geisha sightings.

Travel to Kanazawa by Shinkansen

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Kyoto to Kanazawa.

Enjoy the scenic journey through the Japanese countryside.

The Thunderbird Limited Express is another viable option, slightly slower but often direct.

Explore Kenrokuen Garden

Visit one of Japan's 'three most beautiful landscape gardens', Kenrokuen Garden.

Stroll through its expansive grounds, ponds, and tea houses.

Adjacent to Kanazawa Castle Park, making it easy to visit both. Admission is JPY 320 for adults.

Kanazawa Castle Park

Wander through the grounds of Kanazawa Castle, which has been largely restored.

Explore its beautiful gates, turrets, and traditional Japanese architecture.

Entry to the castle grounds is free, but some buildings may have a small fee.

Geisha Evenings In Kanazawa

Experience an exquisite evening at Kaikaro Teahouse, enjoying traditional geisha entertainment.

This popular event offers a unique cultural immersion.

Booking is highly recommended due to limited availability. The price varies.

Omicho Market Visit

Explore Omicho Market, Kanazawa's largest fresh food market since the Edo Period.

Sample fresh seafood, local produce, and other delights.

Great place for a fresh seafood breakfast or early lunch. Many stalls offer samples.

Higashi Chaya District Stroll

Wander through the well-preserved Higashi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's historic geisha entertainment districts. Visit a teahouse or browse local craft shops.

Consider visiting the Shima or Kaikaro teahouses, which are open to the public.

Travel to Toyama

Take a local train from Kanazawa to Toyama, a short and scenic journey along the coast.

The Hokuriku Shinkansen also connects these cities faster.

Toyama Castle Park & Museum

Visit Toyama Castle Park, home to the reconstructed Toyama Castle, which now houses the local history museum.

Enjoy a peaceful walk around the grounds.

The museum offers insights into the region's history and culture. Admission to the museum is JPY 210.

Sunset at Fugan Unga Kansui Park

Relax at Fugan Unga Kansui Park, known for its beautiful canal, bridges, and the 'Starbucks most beautiful in the world'. Enjoy the evening atmosphere.

A great spot for an evening stroll and picturesque views.

Dinner in Toyama

Savor local Toyama cuisine.

Toyama is famous for its fresh seafood, especially 'shiro ebi' (white shrimp) and 'hotaru ika' (firefly squid).

Look for restaurants near Toyama Station for convenient dining.

Travel to Tateshina

Embark on a scenic journey from Toyama to Tateshina.

This typically involves taking the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano or Sakudaira, then transferring to local trains or buses towards Chino and into the Tateshina area.

This is a multi-leg journey; consider using a Japan Rail Pass if you have one. Pack some snacks for the journey.

Tateshina Scenery & Relaxation

Upon arrival and check-in, take some time to relax and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tateshina.

Enjoy a leisurely walk around your accommodation or a nearby trail.

Tateshina is known for its beautiful highlands and resorts, offering a peaceful escape. The area offers various outdoor activities (hiking, hot springs) depending on the season.

Dinner at Tateshina Resort

Enjoy dinner at your chosen accommodation or a local restaurant, savoring regional specialties and the tranquility of the mountain setting.

Many hotels and ryokans in Tateshina offer traditional multi-course dinners.

Lake Shirakaba Activities

Visit Lake Shirakaba, a popular highland resort lake.

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, rent a paddleboat, or simply take in the picturesque mountain views.

Various activities are available depending on the season, from boating to visiting small museums. Free to access the lake area.

Lunch in Tateshina

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery near Lake Shirakaba or your accommodation, perhaps trying some regional dishes.

Many cafes and restaurants offer hearty meals suitable for highland visitors.

Tateshina Kogen Art Museum

Visit the Tateshina Kogen Art Museum, which often features local artists and exhibitions inspired by the beautiful natural surroundings of the highlands.

A good option for a cultural break, especially if the weather is cooler. Check current exhibitions before visiting.

Relaxing Onsen Experience

Indulge in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring bath).

Many ryokans and public bathhouses in Tateshina offer rejuvenating hot springs, perfect after a day of exploration.

Remember onsen etiquette (wash before entering, no swimwear in traditional onsen). Some hotels might have private onsen options.

Farewell Dinner in Tateshina

Enjoy a final dinner in Tateshina, perhaps trying a restaurant recommended by locals or savoring a meal at your ryokan.

Consider fresh mountain vegetables and local meats as part of your meal.

Morning Lakeside Walk

Enjoy a refreshing morning walk around Lake Shirakaba or another scenic lake in Tateshina, taking in the crisp mountain air and beautiful autumn foliage.

Dress in layers as temperatures can be cool in the mountains during November. Many local cafes offer breakfast options.

Tateshina Ropeway Ride

Take the Tateshina Ropeway up the mountain for panoramic views of the Japanese Alps and surrounding area.

The autumn colors should be spectacular.

Check operating hours and weather conditions before visiting. The ropeway offers stunning vistas, especially on clear days.

Lunch with a View

Savor lunch at a local restaurant or cafe near the Tateshina Kogen, perhaps with mountain views.

Try local specialties.

Tateshina Art Museum

Visit a local art museum or gallery showcasing regional artists and nature-inspired works, providing a cultural interlude amidst the natural beauty.

Confirm opening days/hours as some smaller museums may have limited schedules.

Relax in Onsen

Unwind in a traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen) at your accommodation or a nearby public bath, a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.

Many hotels in the area have their own onsen. Be aware of onsen etiquette.

Dinner in Tateshina

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local produce and regional Japanese cuisine.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a final breakfast in Tateshina and prepare for your journey to Tokyo.

Travel to Tokyo

Travel from Tateshina to Tokyo by bus and train.

This journey will likely involve a bus from Tateshina to a Shinkansen station (e.g., Sakudaira or Matsumoto) and then a bullet train to Tokyo Station.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Arrive in Tokyo, check into your hotel, and grab a quick lunch near your accommodation.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Explore the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a tranquil oasis offering French, English, and traditional Japanese garden landscapes.

Closed on Mondays (except when Monday is a national holiday, then open and closed the next day). Entry fee applies.

Shinjuku Golden Gai Experience

Wander through the narrow alleys of Shinjuku Golden Gai, known for its tiny, unique bars and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner and a drink.

Many bars cater to regulars but some are tourist-friendly. Cash is often preferred.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Enjoy free panoramic night views of Tokyo from the observation decks of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Open until 10:30 PM (North Tower). Free entry.

Hanazono Shrine Visit

Visit Hanazono Shrine, a vibrant Shinto shrine nestled in the heart of Shinjuku, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

The shrine often hosts antique markets and festivals, check local listings if interested.

Tsubouchi Theatre Museum

Explore the Tsubouchi Memorial Theatre Museum at Waseda University, dedicated to the history of theatre arts.

Check specific exhibition details online. Free admission.

Higo-Hosokawa Garden Stroll

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Higo-Hosokawa Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with a pond, waterfalls, and tea houses.

Entry is free. It's a lovely spot for autumn leaves.

Lunch near Waseda

Have lunch at a casual restaurant or cafe near Waseda University, offering a variety of affordable options.

Women's Active Museum

Visit the Women's Active Museum on War and Peace, an important museum dedicated to women's experiences in war and advocating for peace.

A poignant and educational experience. Check opening days as it may have limited hours.

Osaka Night Walk in Umeda (Osaka specific, replacing with Tokyo equivalent)

Experience Tokyo's vibrant evening atmosphere in a local neighborhood like Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley) or Shibuya, enjoying street food and drinks.

Explore local izakayas and try various yakitori or other Japanese snacks. This is a local-guided activity in Osaka, so for Tokyo it will be a self-guided exploration.

teamLab Planets TOKYO

Immerse yourself in a museum where you walk through water and become one with the flowers in large-scale artwork spaces and gardens.

Book tickets well in advance as it's very popular. Wear clothes that can be rolled up as you will walk through water. Changing facilities are available.

Ginza Shopping & Exploration

Head to Ginza, Tokyo's upscale shopping district.

Explore luxury boutiques, department stores, and modern architecture. Enjoy lunch at one of Ginza's many eateries.

The main street (Chuo Dori) is often pedestrianized on weekends, but still great for walking on a Tuesday.

Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori

Visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and stroll through Nakamise-dori, a traditional shopping street leading to the temple gates, perfect for last-minute souvenirs.

The temple grounds are beautiful, especially as dusk falls.

Dinner in Asakusa

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the historic Asakusa area, perhaps trying tempura or unagi (eel).

Breakfast & Final Packing

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe and complete any last-minute packing.

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab any final souvenirs or gifts you might have missed at a nearby convenience store or department store.

Hotel Check-out & Travel Prep

Check out from your hotel and make your way to Tokyo Station for your journey to Osaka.

Shinkansen to Osaka Itami Airport (ITM)

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station, then connect to Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) via local train or bus.

Airport Check-in & Security (ITM)

Complete check-in procedures and proceed through security at Osaka Itami Airport for your international flight.

Flight from ITM to CGK

Depart from Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) on your flight back to Jakarta (CGK).