【Osaka Travel Plan】Enjoy Both Osaka and Kyoto! 5 Days and 4 Nights Itinerary

If you’re coming all the way to Osaka, why not include a trip to Kyoto in your itinerary? Here, I’d like to introduce a 5-day, 4-night plan perfect for those who want to enjoy both cities!

I’ll be recommending some must-visit spots, so use this as a reference when planning your trip with family, friends, or your partner!

Stay at It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – and fully enjoy your time in Osaka!

Here’s a sample itinerary for 5 days and 4 nights,
allowing you to enjoy both Osaka and Kyoto!

Day 1

First, enjoy the authentic Osaka! A food tour in Dotonbori

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• It takes 25 minutes from JR Ajikawaguchi Station to Hanshin Line Osaka Namba.

Dotonbori in Osaka is packed with Osaka’s soul food, known as “konamon” (flour-based) cuisine! Konamon includes iconic dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu—representative foods of Osaka.

●Takoyaki

There are dozens of takoyaki shops in Dotonbori, so it can be tough to decide where to eat. A great recommendation is “Takoyaki Douraku Wanaka”! Wanaka’s takoyaki offers a crispy exterior and a gooey, flavorful interior. Plus, with an eat-in space, you can enjoy your takoyaki hot and fresh right from the grill.

※For more details, please visit the official website of Takoyaki Douraku Wanaka.

●Okonomiyaki

In Dotonbori, “Okonomiyaki Mitsuno” is always bustling with lines of people. It’s so popular that people start lining up even before the restaurant opens! The most popular dish is the yam okonomiyaki, which has a fluffy texture thanks to the yam-based batter, offering a unique taste compared to traditional okonomiyaki. Another favorite is the Mitsuno-yaki, named after the restaurant itself!

※For more details, please visit the official website of Okonomiyaki Mitsuno.

●Kushikatsu

When it comes to kushikatsu, “Kushikatsu Daruma” is famous for its “no double dipping” rule. While it’s strongly associated with the Shinsekai area, it also has a location in Dotonbori!

The Dotonbori Set is highly recommended, featuring classic kushikatsu and dote-yaki (beef stew). Although there’s often a line, the efficient turnover means you won’t have to wait too long to enjoy delicious kushikatsu.

※For more details, please visit the official website of Kushikatsu Daruma.

Strike the classic Glico pose! Take a photo in Dotonbori.

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• From JR Ajikawaguchi Station to Hanshin Line Osaka Namba, it takes 25 minutes.

When you visit Dotonbori, don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic Glico sign! It’s a popular spot, with many tourists taking pictures from the Ebisubashi. It’s not only great from the bridge itself but also from the Tonbori Walk stairs below!

Additionally, you can get a different angle of the Glico sign from the Korean and organic cosmetics store, “nanohana Ebisu Bridge Store.” Be sure to follow the store’s rules when taking your photos!

※For more details, please visit the official website of nanohana Ebisubashi Store.

Explore the streets of Osaka by boat! Enjoy a cruise tour.

Osaka was once known as the “City of Water,” and taking a leisurely sightseeing boat tour is a unique way to experience the city! With various cruise options available, choose one that catches your interest and enjoy a journey on the water.

Besides Dotonbori, you can also explore areas like Nakanoshima and Universal Studios Japan (USJ) by boat, offering a different mode of transportation compared to public transit.

※For more details, please contact the respective cruise companies.

A renowned udon restaurant loved nationwide: Dotonbori Imai.

Dotonbori Imai is a famous udon restaurant specializing in one of Osaka’s flour-based dishes. Founded in 1941, it’s a well-known spot among Osaka locals. Their signature dish, the “Kitsune Udon” with a flavorful dashi, is considered a perfect representation of Osaka’s culinary heritage.

The udon is delicately seasoned, making it a great choice for a meal after enjoying rich Osaka specialties like takoyaki or okonomiyaki. A bowl of Dotonbori Imai’s udon or one of their rice bowls could be the perfect complement to your culinary experience.

※For more details, please visit the official website of Dotonbori Imai.

Day 2

Morning to Evening Fun at Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• From JR Ajikawaguchi Station to Universal City Station, it takes just 1 minute.

When you think of Osaka, Universal Studios Japan (USJ), commonly known as “UniBus,” comes to mind! It’s a theme park where you can have fun from morning until night.

The park offers numerous attractions that let you experience the world of movies, providing entertainment for both children and adults all day long. Seasonal events add to the charm, ensuring there’s always something exciting to enjoy, no matter when you visit.

Inside the park, you’ll find restaurants featuring meals inspired by park characters and collaborations with popular anime, allowing you to savor themed dining experiences based on the events taking place.

※Here is information about coin lockers near Universal Studios Japan (USJ):

In the evening, relax and unwind at Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu!

After enjoying your time at Universal Studios Japan (USJ), commonly known as “Uniba,” a great way to unwind and relieve any fatigue is by visiting Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu!

This facility prides itself on using 100% natural hot spring water. In addition to the onsen, there are various amenities such as Japanese, Western, and Chinese restaurants, as well as massage services to further relax your body.

For convenience, if you’re heading to Ikkyu right after USJ, you can take a shuttle bus from Universal City Station directly to Ikkyu.

※For information on the free shuttle bus stop near It’ ta de JPN – イッタデェ ジャパン – please visit the official website of Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu!

Day 3

Enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka’s cityscape from the Umeda Sky Building!

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• From JR Ajikawaguchi Station to JR Osaka Station, it takes 13 minutes.

A landmark in Osaka’s Umeda area, the Umeda Sky Building offers breathtaking views of the city from its rooftop Sky Garden Observatory, located 173 meters above ground. Enjoy the experience of ascending to the sky via the transparent escalator.

At the observatory’s café, you can savor exclusive Umeda Sky Building coffee. Seasonal limited-time menu items are available, offering unique flavors only found at the observatory. Additionally, you can enjoy a variety of beers from around the world while taking in the stunning 173-meter-high views.

※For more details, please visit the official website of the Umeda Sky Building.

The retro Showa-era shopping street, Takimi Koji.

On the 1st to B1 floors of the Umeda Sky Building, you’ll find a shopping street with a Showa-era retro ambiance, known as Takimi Koji! This area features a variety of eateries, cake shops, and cafés, allowing you to enjoy a meal in a unique and nostalgic setting. There’s also a sweet shop where you can experience making traditional Japanese sweets.

Enjoy the nostalgic yet somehow new atmosphere as you explore Takimi Koji.

※For more details, please visit the official website of Takimi Koji.

Popular! Get Your Pokémon Merchandise at Pokémon Center

The Pokémon Center Osaka, where you can buy merchandise from the globally popular game “Pokémon,” is located on the 13th floor of the Daimaru Umeda Store! Boasting the largest space in the Kansai region, this Pokémon Center greets you with an impressive statue of Koraidon, the main Pokémon from Pokémon Violet, as you enter the spacious store.

There are many exclusive items that can only be found at the Pokémon Center, making it a place that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. During major holidays such as summer and winter vacations, events are held where Pokémon like Pikachu come to play and dance, ensuring a fun time for young children.

Additionally, if you take the subway directly from Umeda to Shinsaibashi, you can visit the Pokémon Center Osaka DX & Pokémon Café, where you can enjoy food and drinks themed after Pokémon. If you have some extra time, be sure to check it out!

※Please note that the Pokémon Café requires an advance reservation. For more details, please visit the official website.

Another aerial stroll awaits with the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel!

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• From JR Ajikawaguchi Station to JR Osaka Station, it takes 13 minutes.

Experience a different kind of aerial stroll with the distinctive red Ferris Wheel at HEP FIVE! From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view 106 meters above ground. Each ride lasts about 15 minutes, and with air-conditioned gondolas, your sky journey will be comfortable and enjoyable.

※For more details, please visit the official website of HEP FIVE.

Umeda in a Chair?! A Photogenic Spot

Near the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, you’ll find the “Umeda Chair” at Hankyu San Hiroba. There are both Kanji characters “umedaisu” and Roman letters “umedaisu” where you can sit and take photos!

The “rice field” part of the Kanji for Umeda has been transformed into a chair, making it a popular photogenic spot. The bright red visual is perfect for memorable photos, so be sure to take a snap if you’re nearby!

Enjoy shopping and dining all in one place at LINKS UMEDA!

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• From JR Ajikawaguchi Station to JR Osaka Station, it takes 13 minutes.

LINKS UMEDA, located on the north side of JR Osaka Station, is a commercial complex with around 200 stores. It features a variety of shops, including the well-known Yodobashi Camera for electronics, as well as apparel, accessories, supermarkets, convenience stores, and dining options.

When it comes to dining, you’ll find everything from famous restaurants to fast food, catering to both adults and children. The diverse selection makes it a convenient and attractive spot for both shopping and meals.

※For more details, please visit the official website of UMEDA LINKS.

Day 4

Just a short trip from Osaka! Experience the history of Kyoto.

The “Higashi Honganji” is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• From JR Ajikawaguchi Station to JR Kyoto Station, it takes 50 minutes.

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Higashi Honganji is about a 10-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station. The temple grounds feature several structures designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government, allowing visitors to experience its rich history firsthand.

Particularly noteworthy is the Goeido Hall, one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. This hall houses the sacred portrait of Shinran Shonin, the founder of the sect. Inside, you’ll find a magnificent altar with a grand portrait and tatami flooring, creating a breathtaking sight.

With many other historical buildings on the grounds, Higashi Honganji is a must-visit during your Kyoto sightseeing tour!

※For more details, please visit the official website of Higashi Honganji.

Experience Japan’s traditional culture at Kiyomizu-dera temple!

• From It’ ta de JPN – Ittade Japan – it’s an 8-minute walk to JR Yumesaki Line Ajikawaguchi Station.
• From JR Ajikawaguchi Station to Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo Station, it takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Kiyomizu-dera temple, registered as a World Heritage Site for its beautiful scenery and historical value, offers stunning views from its famous stage. You can enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves drawing many tourists.

In addition to the scenery, the temple complex features a three-story pagoda, the main hall, and many Important Cultural Properties, providing numerous highlights. It’s a must-visit spot when traveling to Kyoto.

※For more details, please visit the official website of Kiyomizu-dera temple.

Stroll through the picturesque streets of Kyoto: Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Sannenzaka.

When it comes to strolling through the charming streets of Kyoto, Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Sannenzaka are the places to visit. Each of these historic slopes has its own name, allowing you to enjoy the unique Kyoto streetscape as you walk.

In recent years, these areas have seen an increase in stylish Kyoto-themed cafés, boutique shops, and traditional sweet shops alongside classic dining establishments. These scenic paths are perfect for all generations to explore, so be sure to take a walk before or after your visit to Kiyomizu-dera!

A spiritual hotspot in Kyoto, known locally as Gion-san, is the powerful Yasukuni Shrine.

Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine, the head shrine of all Yasaka shrines across Japan, is a significant spiritual spot. The Gion Matsuri, one of Kyoto’s famous festivals, is actually a part of Yasaka Shrine’s festivities.

The shrine offers various blessings, including protection from misfortune, matchmaking, and prosperity in business. Yasaka Shrine is particularly renowned for attracting many female visitors due to the presence of the “Mikuzukake Shrine,” dedicated to the deity of beauty. It is said that applying a few drops of the sacred water, “Biyo-sui,” from the shrine’s fountain to your skin can enhance both physical and spiritual beauty.

Additionally, there are several other affiliated shrines within the grounds, such as:

• Okuninushi Shrine: Known for its matchmaking deity.
• Akioji Shrine: Offering protection from misfortune and calamities, as well as fulfilling wishes.

Be sure to explore these various shrines and experience their unique spiritual offerings.

※For more details, please visit the official website of Yasaka Shrine.

Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kennin-ji.

Located in the vibrant Gion district, Kennin-ji Temple exudes a solemn atmosphere despite its lively surroundings. As Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kennin-ji boasts a grand and impressive presence.

One of its highlights is the “Fugaku-zu” (Twin Dragons) painted on the ceiling of the Hōjō (main hall), created to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the temple’s founding. The ceiling is adorned with these two majestic dragons, and it’s worth taking time to admire both the overall composition and the intricate details.

The temple grounds also feature beautiful gardens, with the Shōon-en Garden surrounded by corridors designed so that all four directions—east, west, north, and south—face the garden directly. The garden is stunning throughout the year, but it’s especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season when it turns a vibrant red.

Additionally, Kennin-ji offers experiences such as calligraphy and zazen (sitting meditation). If you have time, these activities provide a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Zen practices.

※For more details, please visit the official website of Kennin-ji.

Enjoy a dinner in Kyoto at restaurants around the Gion area!

The Gion area is packed with dining options. When it comes to Kyoto cuisine, you must try obanzai! This traditional dish consists of everyday side dishes made in Kyoto homes, using local vegetables (kyoyasai) and featuring dishes such as simmered vegetables and lightly boiled greens. Obanzai is typically served in small portions, allowing you to enjoy a variety of different dishes.

In addition to obanzai, you can also find delicious oden (a type of Japanese stew) paired with fine sake.

The Gion area also offers a range of dining experiences including authentic French and Italian cuisine, sushi, and various meat dishes. Be sure to explore the area and discover the diverse culinary delights available!

Day 5 (Final Day)

Osaka offers a wide variety of souvenirs! Choose something that will make your loved ones happy.

The perfect way to wrap up your trip is by choosing souvenirs! A classic choice is the “Butaman” (pork bun) from 551 Horai. These buns are handcrafted with care by skilled artisans to ensure they are always freshly made.

While the hot pork buns are delicious, there are also chilled versions available for souvenirs! You can enjoy the same fresh taste at home by using a microwave or steamer.

Osaka also offers a variety of exclusive sweets. From takoyaki-flavored snacks to pudding inspired by the iconic “Kuidaore Taro” doll, there’s a wide range of unique souvenirs to choose from!

Be sure to check out souvenir shops at major stations and in the Dotonbori area. Osaka has plenty to offer, so have a fantastic trip and enjoy your time exploring!