9-Day Osaka Trip: Copy This Itinerary

Day 1 starts at Osaka Castle at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore the historic site. Travel 10 minutes by taxi (~¥1,500) to Shitennō-ji, arriving around 11:30 AM for a 1.5-hour visit. Afterward, take a 15-minute taxi ride (~¥1,500) to Dotonbori, arriving by 1:30 PM. Enjoy 3 hours to savor the street food and vibrant atmosphere before concluding your day.

Attractions

Osaka Castle

Explore this historic 16th-century castle surrounded by beautiful parks, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.

Shitennō-ji

Discover Japan’s oldest officially recognized temple, an important monument representing the introduction of Buddhism to Japan.

Dotonbori

Experience the vibrant heart of Osaka, famous for its neon lights, street food, and humorous culture. A must-see at night!

Day 2 starts at Osaka Tenmangu Shrine at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Travel via taxi (10 mins, ~$10) to Umeda Sky Building for stunning views from 10:30 AM, allowing 1.5 hours. Next, head to The National Museum of Art, Osaka at 12:30 PM - a 15-minute taxi ride (~$15) where you’ll enjoy 2 hours of modern art.

Attractions

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

A peaceful shrine dedicated to the god of learning, showcasing beautiful architecture and serene gardens. Perfect for a quiet stroll.

Umeda Sky Building

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory atop this contemporary architectural marvel.

The National Museum of Art, Osaka

Dive into contemporary art at this unique underground museum featuring both Japanese and international artists in rotating exhibitions.

Start Day 3 at Sumiyoshi Taisha at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes for exploration. Travel via subway from Sumiyoshi Taisha to SPAWORLD HOTEL&RESORT, taking about 25 minutes (~¥320). Enjoy relaxation from 11 AM to 3 PM. Afterward, head to Osaka Science Museum using the subway, which takes about 15 minutes (~¥220) for a 3:30 PM entry, and spend 2 hours discovering interactive exhibits.

Attractions

Sumiyoshi Taisha

One of Japan’s oldest shrines, featuring a unique architectural style unencumbered by foreign influence, set in tranquil gardens.

SPAWORLD HOTEL&RESORT

Relax in this massive onsen (hot spring) complex, featuring various themed baths and saunas from around the world.

Osaka Science Museum

A hands-on experience for understanding science and technology through interactive exhibits, perfect for families and curious minds.

Day 4 starts at Kuromon Market at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore. Then, take a 10-minute walk to Namba Parks, arriving by 11 AM - spend 2 hours enjoying shopping and dining. After that, travel 30 minutes by train to Minoh Park, arriving by 1:30 PM - allow 3 hours to take in the natural beauty. Total transport cost is around 600 JPY.

Attractions

Kuromon Market

A bustling market known as Osaka’s kitchen, where you can sample fresh seafood, local delicacies, and street food that delights the senses.

Namba Parks

A unique shopping complex that blends retail, dining, and greenery, featuring rooftop gardens and various entertainment options.

Minoh Park

Experience nature's beauty just outside Osaka, featuring a picturesque waterfall, hiking trails, and seasonal maple leaves.

Day 5 starts at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore. Take a 20-minute subway ride to Osaka City Central Public Hall (~¥220) arriving by 12:30 PM for an hour. After, hop on a 15-minute tram to Nakanoshima Park (free) reaching by 2 PM - enjoy 1.5 hours in the beautiful park.

Attractions

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing diverse marine life through immersive exhibits and breathtaking displays.

Osaka City Central Public Hall

A stunning historical building renowned for its beautiful architecture and gardens, often hosting concerts and cultural events.

Nakanoshima Park

A scenic riverside park offering a relaxing escape with beautiful gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Day 1 starts at Tokyo Tower (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes for views and exploration. Take a 15-minute subway ride via the Oedo Line to reach Meiji Jingu by 11 AM (entry is free; allow 60 minutes). Then, head to Akihabara Electric Town by a 10-minute train ride on the JR Yamanote Line, arriving by 12:30 PM - spend 2 hours exploring electronics and shops.

Attractions

Tokyo Tower

An iconic symbol of Japan, Tokyo Tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, especially breathtaking at sunset.

Meiji Jingu

Nestled in a lush forest, Meiji Jingu is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, perfect for a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.

Akihabara Electric Town

Known as the mecca for otaku culture, Akihabara is filled with shops offering anime, manga, and electronics, making it a thrilling destination for fans.

Day 2 starts at Fish Market Tsukiji Outer Market at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore. Travel to Shibuya Crossing around 11 AM via a 20-minute subway ride (¥200). Spend 30 minutes experiencing the iconic crossing. At noon, head to Yanaka Ginza, a 25-minute subway ride (¥200), and enjoy a 60-minute stroll through this quaint shopping street.

Attractions

Fish Market Tsukiji Outer Market

Explore vibrant food stalls and taste fresh sushi and seafood in the iconic Tsukiji Outer Market, where the culinary delights of Japan come alive.

Shibuya Crossing

Experience the world's busiest pedestrian crossing at Shibuya, a symbol of Tokyo's vibrant urban life and a must-see photo opportunity.

Yanaka Ginza

Explore this retro shopping street in Yanaka, known for its traditional architecture, local crafts, and charming atmosphere, showcasing Tokyo's nostalgic side.

Day 1 starts at Peace Memorial Park at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum at 11:30 AM (2 hours). After that, enjoy a 15-minute walk to the Atomic Bomb Dome at 2 PM - spend about 30 minutes taking photos. This itinerary keeps you at a comfortable pace while visiting attractions near the city center.

Attractions

Peace Memorial Park - Hiroshima

A solemn tribute to peace, this park honors the victims of the atomic bomb and promotes a message of hope for future generations.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

This thought-provoking museum offers deep insights into the events surrounding the atomic bombing and its aftermath, fostering a powerful understanding of peace.

Atomic Bomb Dome

An iconic symbol of Hiroshima, this structure is a haunting reminder of the destructive power of war and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 2 starts at Shukkeien Garden at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to enjoy the serene landscapes. Travel 10 minutes by tram (around ¥180) to reach Okonomimura by 11 AM for an hour of delicious okonomiyaki. Afterward, take a 15-minute walk to Hiroshima Castle at 12:30 PM, where you’ll want to spend 90 minutes exploring this historic site.

Attractions

Shukkeien Garden

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden, Shukkeien offers tranquil landscapes, teahouses, and a picturesque pond, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Okonomimura

This food hall specializes in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, offering a delicious and immersive dining experience in a lively atmosphere.

Hiroshima Castle

Known as the 'Carp Castle', it offers insight into Hiroshima's feudal past and panoramic views from its top floor.

Complete 9-day guide to Osaka & Tokyo & Hiroshima with Top attractions and Hidden Gems

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Osaka Castle

Shitennō-ji

Dotonbori

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9