Osaka is a city full of contrasts and charm. Here, tradition meets modernity in a very particular, at times un-Japanese, balance (could it be that it was our last stop? I don’t know Rick). From ancient temples that tell stories of a glorious past, to futuristic neighbourhoods illuminated by bright neon lights, Osaka is a perfect mix of culture and innovation.
The city, known as the ‘kitchen of Japan’, is famous for its extraordinary cuisine and is a gourmet’s paradise: iconic dishes such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki conquer the palate and represent the gastronomic soul of a metropolis that lives and celebrates food.
In this 4-day itinerary, we will explore the must-see sights of the city and take you on a discovery of a city full of contrasts but authentic.
If you want to know how to get around or where to stay, read our Japan Itinerary article and don’t miss our Practical Travel Tips article.
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Day 1: Dotonbori
We arrive in Osaka it is afternoon and head straight to our hotel in the heart of the Namba district, in the lively Dotonbori area. After dropping our bags we decide to immediately immerse ourselves in the unique atmosphere of this part of the city.
We stroll along the crowded streets lit by neon signs and giant screens that create an almost surreal panorama. We cross the Daikokubashi, a bridge that offers us a splendid view of the canal and the incessant movement of boats and people. A little further on, we reach the famous Ebisu Bridge, one of Osaka’s landmarks. Here we stop to look out over the canal, take a few photos and enjoy the view of the lights reflected on the water, with the unmistakable Glico racer billboard shining in the background.
With our appetite starting to work up an appetite, we are entranced by the sign of a giant crab that greets us from above. We eat very well, one of the best meals made in Japan… clearly all crab-based! It’s the perfect way to end our first taste of the city, full of enthusiasm for the days ahead.
Day 2: Nara
On the second day, we devote ourselves to one of the must-do day trips to Osaka (also convenient from Kyoto), we visit Nara.
Famous for its hundreds of deer roaming freely in a large city park, beautiful Zen gardens and ancient shrines dating back to the days when it was Japan’s first capital. Read our article on what to see on a day trip to Nara.
Day 3: Osaka Castle, Shrines and Shin Sekai
We start the day with a visit to the majestic Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. This castle, built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is surrounded by wide moats, ancient stone ramparts and the beautiful Nishinomaru gardens, known for their cherry trees that turn into an explosion of colours in spring.
Inside the castle is a museum that tells the story of Osaka as we ascend, of the Toyotomi dynasty and the wars that marked Japan at the time. Climbing up to the observation deck, we enjoy a 360-degree view of the city, perfect for taking some memorable photos.
After leaving the castle, we head to Shitennō-ji, considered Japan’s first Buddhist temple, founded in 593 AD by Shōtoku Taishi. We stroll among the pagodas and main buildings and inside the Gokuraku-jōdo garden, among the ponds and carefully arranged plants.
After lunch, we visit the Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan. We cross the distinctive red Sorihashi Bridge. We stroll through the gardens surrounding the shrine, admiring the unique ‘Sumiyoshi-zukuri’ style architecture, which stands out for its purity and simplicity. This place is dedicated to the deities of the sea, and there is an atmosphere of deep devotion. Here the details of the stone lanterns and torii portals, symbols of protection and good omen, are admirable.
We continue to Shinsekai, a district full of contrasts and retro charm, futuristic but with the eyes of the past. The atmosphere here is lively and authentic, with bright signs decorating the streets and restaurants offering local dishes. The Tsūtenkaku tower dominates the view and is one of Osaka’s most iconic symbols. We climb up to the observation platform for a unique view of the city. Paolino, brave enough, even manages to do two jumps on the metal platform!
We return to the hotel and end the day at Ichiran Ramen where we taste the best ramen ever! Even the restaurant itself – like ordering and eating – is an experience within an experience. Absolutely a must try for us!
Day 4: Mount Koya
Second day excursion from Osaka, Mount Koya, a unique experience that visitors to the spiritual heart of the country.
Here, among ancient trees and tombs, there is a mystical and contemplative atmosphere that leaves an indelible impression on the hearts of those who visit. Read our complete guide for a day trip to Mount Koya.
Day 5: Namba and Umeda
Early in the morning, we visit the famous Namba Yasaka Jinja, a unique Shinto shrine in the heart of Osaka, famous above all for its spectacular and unusual structure in the shape of a lion’s head about 12 metres high and 11 metres wide. The lion’s gaping mouth is not only decorative: according to tradition, it serves to drive away evil spirits and attract good fortune.
As our last day in Japan, we feel we must dedicate a few hours to shopping. We start at Ebisu Bashi-Suji Shopping Street, a lively covered passageway stretching for about 350 metres. Here we find everything from souvenir shops with Osaka-themed key rings and gadgets to Japanese and international fashion brands. We make a stop at Don Quijote, the budget shopper’s paradise, where we buy unique snacks, cosmetics and Japanese curiosities.
We continue our morning by heading to Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street, one of Osaka’s most famous shopping streets. Here the tone changes: we find ourselves immersed in a long arcade full of high-fashion boutiques, department stores, and international luxury brands. But we are in Japan, and there is no shortage of themed cafés such as the world-famous Pokemon Café where you can enjoy sweets at the table with Pikachu or entire shops dedicated to Myazachi with life-size Totoro!
For lunch we opt for a street food tour in the neighbourhood, sample takoyaki, Rikuro Ojisan no Mise’s famous cheescake – overrated – and the delicious 10 yen cheese coin, my all-time favourite!
We return to the beating heart of Osaka to visit one of its most iconic buildings: theUmeda Sky Building. This architectural masterpiece consists of twin towers connected at the top by a circular structure known as the Floating Garden Observatory. We take the lift up to the upper floors, where a tunnel of escalators suspended in the void takes us to the viewing platform (I won’t tell you who didn’t particularly enjoy it!). From here we can admire Osaka in all its extension: the urban sprawl merging with the mountains on the horizon and the Yodo River meandering between the skyscrapers.
On the way home we catch a glimpse of a big, bright red Ferris wheel…. it is the famous Hep Five Ferris Wheel, a Ferris wheel on the roof of a building. This bright red Ferris wheel is a symbol of Osaka and offers a unique experience to admire the illuminated city at night. We climb into one of the cabins and are slowly transported upwards. During the ride, the view becomes more and more magical: the glittering lights of the city are reflected in a colourful mosaic stretching to the horizon. A perfect way to end our experience in Japan.
Last modified: 7 April 2025
