Osaka, Kyoto 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Kansai Airport (KIX)

Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX), clear customs, and take the express train (Haruka or Rapi:t) to Osaka city center.

Check into your hotel.

Purchase ICOCA card for convenient public transport throughout Kansai region.

Hotel Check-in & Rest

Check into your accommodation in Osaka.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your long journey.

Consider hotels near Namba or Umeda for easy access to transport and attractions.

Dotonbori Food Tour & Lights

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori.

Enjoy Osaka's famous street food like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Marvel at the neon lights and Glico running man sign.

Dotonbori is lively and crowded, especially in the evening. Keep an eye on children.

Osaka Castle Park & Museum

Visit Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks.

Explore the castle grounds and then ascend to the top of the main tower for panoramic views of the city. The museum inside details its history.

The castle can be quite crowded. There's a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Good for children.

Shinsekai Exploration & Lunch

Step back in time in Shinsekai, an old downtown area known for its retro charm.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying more kushikatsu. Climb Tsutenkaku Tower for another city view.

This area offers a different side of Osaka with a nostalgic atmosphere. Great photo opportunities.

Den Den Town Anime Shops

Visit Den Den Town, Osaka's equivalent of Tokyo's Akihabara.

Explore electronics stores, anime shops, manga stores, and arcades. A great spot for the child in your group and any anime enthusiasts.

Many shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists.

Dinner in Umeda

Enjoy dinner in the modern Umeda district.

Options range from department store restaurants to lively izakayas. Consider visiting the Umeda Sky Building's Floating Garden Observatory after dinner for spectacular night views (optional).

Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen

Check out from your Osaka hotel and take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station.

This is a short and efficient journey.

Reserve seats in advance, especially for a group with a child. Use the Japan Rail Pass if you purchased one.

Check into Kyoto Accommodation

Arrive at Kyoto Station, transfer to your hotel/ryokan, and check-in.

Leave your luggage and get ready for an afternoon of exploration.

Many hotels offer luggage forwarding services if you wish to send your main bags ahead.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji

Travel to Arashiyama.

Walk through the iconic Bamboo Grove, admiring the towering stalks. Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a beautiful Zen garden.

Arrive early or later in the afternoon for fewer crowds. The bamboo path is suitable for all ages.

Togetsukyo Bridge & Souvenirs

Stroll across the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, offering beautiful views of the Hozugawa River and surrounding mountains. Browse the souvenir shops and enjoy a snack in the Arashiyama area.

Consider a short boat ride on the Hozugawa River if time permits (seasonal).

Dinner near Kyoto Station

Return to the Kyoto Station area for dinner.

The station complex offers numerous dining options, from casual ramen shops to more upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.

The Isetan department store within Kyoto Station has many restaurant floors.

Fushimi Inari Shrine Hike

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that snake up the sacred Mount Inari.

Hike through the gates, enjoying the unique atmosphere and scenic views.

The full hike takes about 2-3 hours, but you can turn back at any point. There are small food stalls along the way. Free admission.

Kiyomizu-dera & Higashiyama Streets

Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wooden stage offering panoramic city views.

Stroll through the charming, traditional Higashiyama district leading up to the temple, filled with souvenir shops and tea houses.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking up the sloping streets. Children will enjoy the many shops.

Gion District Evening Stroll

Experience the historic Gion district, Kyoto's most famous geisha district.

Stroll through its lantern-lit streets, hoping to catch a glimpse of a geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) or maiko (apprentice geiko) on their way to engagements. Enjoy dinner in the area.

Please be respectful and do not chase or photograph geiko/maiko without permission.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto's most iconic sights.

Marvel at its gold-leaf-covered exterior reflecting in the pond.

It can get crowded, so an earlier start is better. The pathway is mostly flat and easy to navigate.

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Walk to nearby Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its serene rock garden.

Contemplate the enigmatic arrangement of 15 rocks, only 14 of which are visible from any single vantage point.

A place for quiet reflection. Explain the garden's mystery to the child to engage them.

Nishiki Market Food Tour & Shopping

Immerse yourselves in Kyoto's 'Kitchen' at Nishiki Market.

Sample various Japanese delicacies, fresh seafood, pickles, and traditional sweets. It's a fantastic sensory experience and a great place for souvenirs.

Try various street food items like tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), yakitori, and matcha desserts.

Local Onsen Experience (Public Bath)

Relax and unwind at a local public onsen (hot spring bath).

It's a unique cultural experience for adults. Many have separate sections for men and women. For families, some may offer private baths (kazokuburo) if available.

Be aware of onsen etiquette, including washing thoroughly before entering the baths and no tattoos allowed in some public onsen (though many are becoming more lenient). Ensure the chosen onsen is child-friendly or offers private options for your family.

Dinner in Pontocho Alley

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Kyoto along Pontocho Alley, a narrow atmospheric alley filled with traditional restaurants and bars.

Many eateries offer riverside seating during warmer months.

Reservations might be needed for popular riverside restaurants, especially on a Sunday evening.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the iconic towering bamboo stalks, a truly serene and picturesque experience. The path leads to several temples and gardens.

Arrive early to avoid crowds. The Tenryu-ji Temple is nearby and worth a visit.

Tenryu-ji Temple Visit

Explore the beautiful Zen garden and temple grounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples.

Lunch in Arashiyama

Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at a local restaurant in the Arashiyama area.

Many spots offer set menus (teishoku) or noodle dishes.

Gion District Exploration

Stroll through Kyoto's historic geisha district.

Explore the charming streets, traditional wooden machiya houses, and maybe spot a geiko or maiko.

Respect the privacy of residents and performers. Photography rules are in place in some areas.

Traditional Tea Ceremony

Participate in a serene Japanese tea ceremony, learning about its rituals and appreciating the tranquility.

Dinner in Gion

Enjoy dinner in Gion, choosing from various restaurants offering kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal), tempura, or other local specialties.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up the sacred mountain.

It can be a long walk to the summit, but even exploring the lower paths offers a great experience. Wear comfortable shoes.

Lunch at Kyoto Station

Grab a quick and delicious lunch at Kyoto Station before boarding your Shinkansen.

Many options are available from bento boxes to sit-down restaurants.

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Experience Japan's legendary bullet train from Kyoto to Tokyo.

Enjoy scenic views and a comfortable, efficient journey.

Check into Tokyo Hotel

Arrive in Tokyo, check into your accommodation, and settle in.

Take some time to relax before heading out to explore.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Visit one of Tokyo's most beautiful and largest parks, featuring traditional Japanese, English, and French gardens.

Shinjuku Dinner & Views

Enjoy dinner in Shinjuku, followed by a visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation decks for free panoramic city views.

The observation decks are free and open until late (around 10 PM). Great for a night view.

Akihabara Electric Town

Dive into the world of anime, manga, electronics, and gaming.

Explore multi-story shops, arcades, and themed cafes.

Great for the child and anyone interested in Japanese pop culture. Don Quijote offers a wide range of goods, including souvenirs.

Themed Lunch in Akihabara

Enjoy lunch at a themed cafe (like a maid cafe or an anime-themed cafe) or a local ramen/donburi shop for a quintessential Japanese experience.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Experience the world's busiest intersection, Shibuya Crossing.

Take photos, visit the Hachiko statue, and explore the area's trendy shops.

For a great view of the crossing, head to the Starbucks on the second floor of the QFRONT building.

Shibuya 109 & Fashion

Explore the iconic Shibuya 109 building for trendy fashion, or browse other shops and department stores in the vibrant Shibuya district.

Dinner in Shibuya

Enjoy dinner in Shibuya, which offers a vast array of dining options, from casual izakayas to family-friendly restaurants.

Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori

Visit Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, and stroll through Nakamise-dori market, lined with traditional stalls selling souvenirs and snacks.

A great place to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs. Try some local street food like ningyo-yaki.

Lunch in Asakusa

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the Asakusa area.

Many restaurants offer tempura, unagi (eel), or soba noodles.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Explore the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, the former site of Edo Castle.

It's a beautiful, tranquil escape with historical ruins and lush landscaping.

The gardens are free to enter. The Imperial Palace itself is generally not open to the public, except for specific tour bookings or New Year's/Emperor's Birthday.

Ginza Shopping & Stroll

Experience the upscale Ginza district, known for its luxury boutiques, department stores (like Ginza Six), and art galleries.

Enjoy window shopping.

Dinner in Ginza

Dine in Ginza, offering a wide range of sophisticated dining experiences.

There are also more casual options tucked away in side streets.

Ghibli Museum Visit

Immerse yourselves in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli.

Enjoy interactive exhibits, original animation, and a short film.

CRITICAL: Tickets MUST be purchased months in advance as they sell out very quickly. No tickets are sold at the museum. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.

Lunch near Ghibli Museum

Have lunch in Mitaka or Kichijoji, the areas surrounding the Ghibli Museum, which offer a variety of dining options.

Onsen/Spa Relaxation

Indulge in a relaxing onsen (hot spring) or spa experience.

Options range from traditional public baths to modern spa complexes. This is a great cultural experience for rejuvenation.

Some onsen/spa facilities may have rules regarding tattoos. Confirm policies in advance. Many provide rental towels and amenities.

Tokyo Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special dinner in Tokyo, perhaps trying a different cuisine or revisiting a favorite area from your exploration.

Explore Akihabara Electric Town

Immerse yourselves in the world of anime, manga, video games, and electronics.

Visit multi-story stores like Yodobashi Akiba and Animate, and browse niche shops for collectibles.

Akihabara is bustling, especially on a Saturday. Keep an eye on children in crowded areas. Many shops offer duty-free shopping for tourists.

Lunch at a Themed Cafe

Experience a unique dining experience at one of Akihabara's many themed cafes, such as a maid cafe or an anime collaboration cafe.

Some themed cafes have cover charges or specific rules. Research options in advance for child-friendly choices.

Ueno Park & Tokyo National Museum

Stroll through Ueno Park, home to several museums, a zoo, and cherry blossom trees (if still in bloom).

Visit the Tokyo National Museum, Japan's oldest and largest museum, showcasing Japanese art and antiquities.

The park itself is free. The museum usually has an admission fee. The Ueno Zoo is also in the park and can be a great option for the child.

Visit Ueno Zoo

Spend some time at Ueno Zoo, Japan's oldest zoo, famous for its giant pandas.

A fun activity for the child in your group.

The zoo typically closes around 5 PM, so this would be a brief visit. Check closing times upon arrival. Admission for adults is around JPY 600, children 12 and under are usually free.

Dinner in Ueno

Enjoy a casual dinner in the Ueno area, which offers a wide range of restaurants from traditional Japanese to international cuisine.

Harajuku & Meiji Jingu Shrine

Explore the trendy Takeshita Street in Harajuku, famous for youth fashion and quirky shops.

Afterwards, find serenity at Meiji Jingu Shrine, a peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

Takeshita Street can be very crowded on a Sunday. Meiji Jingu is a respectful site; observe proper etiquette.

Lunch in Shibuya

Enjoy lunch in Shibuya, offering a wide array of dining options from casual eateries to themed restaurants.

Shibuya Crossing & Shopping

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the world's busiest intersections.

Take photos, visit the Hachiko statue, and explore the surrounding department stores and shops.

For the best view of the crossing, head to the second floor of the Starbucks in the Tsutaya building.

Relaxing Onsen Experience

Unwind and experience a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring bath) or a public sento (bathhouse) for a cultural relaxation.

Research local onsen or sento for rules and etiquette, especially regarding tattoos and mixed-gender bathing. Some hotels might offer private onsen experiences.

Dinner in Shibuya

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Shibuya, choosing from a wide array of restaurants to suit everyone's tastes.

Ghibli Museum Mitaka

Step into the magical world of Studio Ghibli, home to beloved animated films.

This unique museum offers exhibits, a short film exclusive to the museum, and beautiful gardens.

Booking required well in advance (tickets go on sale on the 10th of the previous month and sell out quickly). It is usually closed on Tuesdays. Monday (April 13) should be open. Take the shuttle bus 'Catbus' from Mitaka Station.

Lunch in Shinjuku

Head back to Shinjuku and find a spot for lunch, with numerous options around Shinjuku Station.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Enjoy a tranquil afternoon stroll through the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, featuring Japanese, English, and French garden styles.

Alcohol is prohibited, and there are specific rules for keeping the garden pristine. A perfect spot for relaxation after the Ghibli excitement.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation decks for panoramic views of the city.

On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji.

The observation decks are free to enter. Both North and South towers offer great views.

Arigato Japan Food Tour

Embark on a culinary and cultural journey through Tokyo with an Arigato Japan Food Tour, exploring local eateries and hidden gems.

A delicious way to experience Japanese food culture.

Tours often focus on specific neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Tsukiji. Choose a tour that suits your group's dietary preferences and interests. Booking required.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Visit the beautiful East Garden of the Imperial Palace, a former site of Edo Castle, offering a glimpse into Japan's history and beautiful landscaping.

The East Garden is free to enter and requires about 2 hours to explore properly. The main palace is not accessible to the public except on special occasions.

Ginza Stroll & Souvenir Shopping

Take a leisurely walk through Ginza, Tokyo's premier shopping district, known for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and art galleries.

A great opportunity for some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Ginza is generally quite expensive, but window shopping is free, and there are affordable cafes and shops in the side streets.

Farewell Lunch in Ginza

Enjoy a final Japanese meal in Ginza before heading to the airport.

Choose from a range of dining options, from sushi to tempura.

Travel to Narita Airport (NRT)

Allow ample time for travel from central Tokyo to Narita International Airport (NRT).

Consider using the Narita Express (N'EX) for convenience.

Airport Check-in and Departure

Proceed with check-in procedures for your international flight from Narita International Airport back to Lisbon.