11-day itinerary in Osaka & Hiroshima, Japan focusing on Top attractions and Hidden Gems and For kids

Start at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore. Take a 15-minute train ride (¥300) to reach Universal Studios Japan by 12:30 PM for 8 hours of fun. In the evening, travel 20 minutes by train (¥250) to Tsutenkaku, arriving at 9 PM - allow 1 hour to enjoy the view.

Day 3 starts at Namba Parks at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore the unique architecture and gardens. Travel 10 minutes via subway (¥220) to Osaka Tenmangu Shrine for an hour-long visit at 11:30 AM. Afterward, head to America-mura at 1 PM, a 15-minute walk, for 90 minutes of shopping and culture. This itinerary keeps activities close to the city center for a balanced day.

Day 4 starts at Hozenji Yokocho at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to explore this charming alley. Travel to Nakazakichō Station by subway (15 minutes, ~$2) to arrive by 10:30 AM, spending 2 hours discovering the local atmosphere. Finally, leave for Sumiyoshi Taisha at 1 PM via taxi (20 minutes, ~$15) and enjoy this historic shrine for 1.5 hours.

Start at Osaka Museum of History at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore the exhibits. Travel to Kids Plaza Osaka by taking the subway (10 minutes, ~200 JPY). Spend 3 hours here, starting at 11:30 AM. Finally, take a 15-minute taxi ride (around 1,500 JPY) to Abeno Harukas for your 3 PM visit - allow 1.5 hours to enjoy the views.

Day 6 starts at Minoh Park (9 AM) - allow 3 hours for a scenic stroll. Travel via train from Osaka Station to Minoh Station (~30 mins, ~$5). Next, visit Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda (12:30 PM) for 2 hours of fun. Take a 15-minute bus to get there (~$2). End your day at Nakanoshima Park (3 PM) - relax for 1.5 hours. It’s a 25-minute train trip back to the city center (~$4).

Day 7 starts at Shinsekai at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore the vibrant streets and local cuisine. Travel 10 minutes via subway to Osaka Science Museum, arriving by 11:30 AM for another 2 hours of exhibitions. At 2 PM, head to Osaka City Central Public Hall, just a 15-minute tram ride away, to appreciate its architecture for an hour. Enjoy a balanced mix of culture and leisure!

Day 8 starts at Namba Yasaka Jinja at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Travel by subway for 15 minutes (~¥230) to Kuchu Teien Observatory, arriving by 10:30 AM—spend 1.5 hours enjoying the views. At 12:30 PM, head to Osaka Municipal Housing Museum by subway again for 2 hours (10-minute ride, ~¥230). Enjoy a balanced mix of cultural sites and leisure!

Day 9 starts at NIFREL at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore its unique interactive exhibits. Next, take a 25-minute train ride to Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, arriving at 11:30 AM for a 1-hour visit. Finally, head to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka, a 20-minute train ride, starting at 1 PM for another 2 hours of fun. The day balances engaging activities with cultural experiences.

Day 1 starts at Peace Memorial Park at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. Walk 10 minutes to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum at 11:30 AM - allow 2.5 hours for the exhibits. After, take a 5-minute taxi (¥800) to the Atomic Bomb Dome at 2:30 PM - spend 30 minutes here absorbing the historic site. All locations are close to the city center for ease of travel.

Day 2 starts at Shukkeien Garden at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to enjoy the serene landscapes. Travel to Hiroshima Orizuru Tower via a 10-minute taxi ride (~¥1,500); arrive by 11 AM for a 2-hour exploration and stunning views. For lunch, head to Okonomimura at 1:30 PM, which is a 5-minute walk away, and savor Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for 90 minutes.