Osaka 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Flight from Manila to KIX

Depart from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) and fly directly to Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Clear customs and immigration upon arrival.

Transfer to Namba & Hotel Check-in

Take the Nankai Rapid Express Rapi:t train from KIX directly to Namba Station.

Check into your accommodation, Citadines Namba Osaka, conveniently located.

Explore Dotonbori & Dinner

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, famous for its illuminated signboards, giant mechanical crab, and bustling street food stalls.

Walk along the Dotonbori Canal and see the iconic Glico Man sign. Enjoy dinner at one of the many local restaurants.

Try local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu.

Activate Osaka Amazing Pass

Begin using your 2-day Osaka Amazing Pass for unlimited rides on subways, trams, and buses, plus free entry to over 40 popular Osaka attractions.

You can purchase and activate your pass at major subway stations. It's valid for two consecutive days.

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 with a friendly English-speaking guide. Great for an overview and using the Amazing Pass for transport.

This tour covers many key areas, providing excellent context for further exploration. The pass covers your transport to the meeting point and during the tour.

Lunch in Namba

Enjoy a casual lunch near Namba or Dotonbori after your morning tour.

Explore the many local eateries for quick and delicious Japanese fare.

Hep Five Ferris Wheel & Umeda Shopping

Travel to the Umeda district (covered by Amazing Pass).

Ride the iconic red Hep Five Ferris wheel for panoramic views of Osaka. Afterwards, explore the massive Hankyu Department Store Umeda Main Store for shopping and admiring Japanese retail culture.

Entry to the Hep Five Ferris wheel is free with the Osaka Amazing Pass.

Osaka Night Walk: Umeda Food & Pub

Join a guided pub adventure to discover three unique izakaya through retro arcades and underground alleys in Umeda.

Dive into Osaka's local food and drink scene like a local.

Experience authentic Osaka nightlife and try various local foods and drinks.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Visit one of Japan's most spectacular aquariums, showcasing marine life from the Pacific Rim.

The 'Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel' is nearby and also covered by the Osaka Amazing Pass.

Take the subway (covered by Amazing Pass) to Osakako Station. Admission to Kaiyukan is usually discounted with the Amazing Pass, but not entirely free.

Lunch near Tempozan Harbor Village

Enjoy lunch at Tempozan Marketplace or one of the many restaurants around Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

Calligraphy Workshop in Namba

Participate in a 2-hour beginner-friendly Japanese calligraphy workshop in downtown Osaka's Namba area.

Learn step-by-step from a Japanese instructor.

A wonderful way to experience traditional Japanese culture. Ensure you book in advance.

Sushi Class in Dotonbori

Learn to make three types of sushi – Nigiri, rolled 'Salad Roll' sushi, and Oshi-zushi (pressed sushi) – with a local Japanese instructor. Enjoy your creations at the end of the class.

A hands-on culinary experience. Located conveniently in Dotonbori.

Activate JR Kansai Pass

Begin using your JR Kansai Pass for unlimited travel on JR lines, perfect for day trips to Nara and Kyoto.

Purchase and activate your pass at a major JR station. This will cover your travel to Nara.

Day Trip to Nara: Park & Todai-ji Temple

Travel to Nara (covered by JR Pass).

Explore Nara Park, famous for its friendly wild deer. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a massive bronze Buddha statue and one of Japan's most significant Buddhist temples.

Deer crackers are available for purchase to feed the deer. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Return to Osaka

Take the JR train back to Osaka from Nara.

You can return to Namba or a station convenient for TeamLab.

TeamLab Botanical Garden Osaka

Experience the stunning digital art installations transforming Nagai Botanical Garden into an interactive light spectacle after sunset.

A unique blend of nature and technology.

TeamLab Botanical Garden is in Nagai Park, accessible via JR (Tsurugaoka Station or Nagai Station on the JR Hanwa Line). This is an outdoor experience, so dress warmly.

Dinner near Nagai Park or Namba

Enjoy a late dinner at a local restaurant near Nagai Park or head back to Namba for more dining options.

Travel to Kyoto

Take the JR Kyoto Line from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station (covered by JR Kansai Pass).

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene and picturesque natural wonder.

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Zen gardens.

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station.

Lunch in Arashiyama

Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine in Arashiyama, with many restaurants offering scenic views.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple with two floors completely covered in gold leaf, set against a beautiful pond and garden.

From Arashiyama, you can take a bus or train/bus combination to reach Kinkaku-ji. Allow time for travel.

Return to Osaka

Take the JR train from Kyoto Station back to Osaka (covered by JR Kansai Pass).

Osaka Sake Tasting & Takoyaki Cooking

Enjoy cooking Osaka's best street food, Takoyaki, with a local guide.

Learn secret recipes and special ingredients, including Wagyu and cheese. The experience also includes sake tasting.

This fun, interactive class is a great way to experience Osaka's food culture. Located in Namba, convenient to your hotel.

Travel to Biwako

Start your day early with a train journey from Osaka to the Biwako Ski Resort area in Shiga Prefecture.

The journey typically involves a JR train to a station like Shiga or Omi-Takashima, followed by a bus or ropeway to the resort itself. Enjoy scenic views of Lake Biwa on your way.

Confirm train and bus schedules in advance. Consider a special ski package that includes transportation and lift tickets.

Skiing & Snowboarding

Spend a thrilling day on the slopes of Biwako Ski Resort.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier/snowboarder, the resort offers various trails and stunning views of Lake Biwa.

Rent equipment (skis/snowboards, boots, poles, attire) at the resort. Lessons are available for beginners. Don't forget to wear appropriate warm clothing.

Lunch at Resort

Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at one of the restaurants or cafes within the ski resort, offering warm meals and hot beverages to refuel after your morning on the slopes.

Return to Osaka

Head back to Osaka by train, relaxing after a fun-filled day in the snow.

Take the opportunity to rest or review photos from your day.

Dinner in Namba

Enjoy a comforting dinner in the vibrant Namba area, known for its diverse culinary scene.

Explore local eateries for a taste of Osaka's evening atmosphere.

Travel to USJ

Head to Universal Studios Japan early to maximize your day.

Take the train to Universal City Station, which is right next to the park entrance.

Universal Studios Fun

Spend a full day exploring the magical worlds of Universal Studios Japan, from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Super Nintendo World. Enjoy rides, shows, and parades.

Buy your tickets in advance online to save time. Consider a Universal Express Pass to skip long lines for popular attractions. Arrive early to Super Nintendo World if you want to enter without a timed entry ticket.

Dinner at Universal Citywalk

Enjoy dinner at one of the many themed restaurants or casual eateries at Universal Citywalk, just outside the park, before heading back to your hotel.

Amerikamura Thrift Shopping

Explore Amerikamura (America Village), a trendy district known for its unique fashion, vintage clothing stores, and quirky boutiques.

You'll find a wide array of thrift shops offering everything from retro wear to designer finds.

Amerikamura is a hub for youth culture and street style. Take your time to browse the various shops and soak in the atmosphere.

Lunch in Amerikamura

Grab a casual lunch at one of the many cafes or eateries in Amerikamura, offering diverse options to suit your taste.

Namba Retail Exploration

Continue your shopping adventure in the bustling Namba district, focusing on areas like Namba Parks or Namba City for more mainstream fashion or unique Japanese goods.

Sushi Class in Dotonbori

Learn the art of making sushi with a local Japanese instructor.

You'll prepare three types: Nigiri, 'Salad Roll' rolled sushi, and Oshi-zushi (pressed sushi). Afterwards, enjoy your handmade creations.

This hands-on class is perfect for food enthusiasts. You'll gain skills and enjoy a delicious meal. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Osaka/Sushi-Class-in-Osaka-Dotonbori/d333-6755P14?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Breakfast & Packing

Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe.

Use this time to finish packing and ensure you have all your belongings ready for departure.

Last Minute Souvenirs

If time permits and you haven't found all your gifts, do some last-minute souvenir shopping in the Namba area before heading to the airport. Many shops near the station offer a wide variety of local products.

Hotel Checkout

Complete your check-out process at the hotel.

You can leave your luggage at the hotel if you plan to do more last-minute activities, or head directly to the airport.

Travel to Kansai Airport

Make your way to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure.

The Nankai Rapid Express (Rapi:t) offers a comfortable and direct connection from Namba Station to KIX.

Departure from KIX

Check in for your flight and proceed through security for your journey home from Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure time.