Exploring Osaka and Kyoto on a Shoestring Budget

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Day 1: City Exploration in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 1, 2024

9:00AM

Osaka Castle

Start your day by visiting the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's heritage and culture.
Take a local train to Osakajo-koen Station, followed by a short walk to the castle entrance.
¥600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Dotonbori

Head to Dotonbori for a lively street food experience and to see the famous Glico Running Man sign.
Walk or take a short train ride to Namba Station.
Varies based on food choices, 2 hours

3:00PM

Shinsaibashi Shopping Street

Explore Shinsaibashi, a bustling shopping district with a mix of local and international brands.
Walk from Dotonbori to Shinsaibashi Street.
Free to wander, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies at Kuromon Ichiba Market.
Walk from Shinsaibashi or take a short taxi ride.
¥1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 2, 2024

9:00AM

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Visit Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, known for its beautiful plum garden and peaceful atmosphere.
Take a train to Minami-morimachi Station followed by a short walk to the shrine.
¥300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Tennoji Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Tennoji Park, a green oasis in the heart of Osaka.
Walk or take a short train ride to Tennoji Station.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Mount Ikoma

Hike up Mount Ikoma for panoramic views of Osaka and the surrounding area.
Take a train to Ikoma Station, then follow signs to the hiking trail.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Local Street Food Dinner

Savor some local street food for dinner at a nearby food stall or restaurant.
Descend from Mount Ikoma and explore the local dining options.
¥800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 3, 2024

9:00AM

Kuromon Ichiba Market

Start your day at Kuromon Ichiba Market, a food lover's paradise with fresh produce and street food.
Walk from your accommodation or take a short train ride to Nippombashi Station.
Varies based on food choices, 2 hours

12:00PM

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, one of Japan's oldest shrines known for its unique architectural style.
Take a train to Sumiyoshi Taisha Station and walk to the shrine entrance.
¥300, 2 hours

3:00PM

Shitenno-ji Temple

Explore Shitenno-ji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan with beautiful gardens and historic structures.
Take a short train ride to Shitenno-ji-mae Yuhigaoka Station.
¥300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Local Ramen Dinner

Enjoy a classic bowl of Osaka's famous ramen for dinner at a nearby noodle shop.
Walk to a recommended ramen shop in the area.
¥800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historical Kyoto Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on May 4, 2024

9:00AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Begin your Kyoto adventure at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
Take a train to Inari Station, right at the entrance to the shrine.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Visit the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and enjoy a peaceful walk amidst the towering bamboo stalks.
Take a train to Saga-Arashiyama Station followed by a short walk to the grove.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-ji Temple, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks.
Take a bus from Arashiyama to Kinkaku-ji Temple.
¥400, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Vegetarian Dinner at Shigetsu

Indulge in a traditional vegetarian meal at Shigetsu, a temple restaurant near Tenryu-ji Temple.
Take a short walk from Kinkaku-ji Temple to Shigetsu.
¥2500, 2 hours
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Day 5: Countryside Serenity in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 5, 2024

9:00AM

Ohara Village

Explore the picturesque Ohara Village nestled in the mountains, known for its temples and rural charm.
Take a bus from Kyoto Station to Ohara Village.
¥1000 (round trip), 3 hours

12:00PM

Sanzen-in Temple

Visit Sanzen-in Temple, a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and historic architecture.
Walk from Ohara Village bus stop to Sanzen-in Temple.
¥700, 2 hours

3:00PM

Tea Tasting at Uji

Head to Uji, famous for its green tea production, and enjoy a traditional tea tasting experience.
Take a train from Kyoto Station to Uji Station.
¥500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Local Dinner at a Izakaya

End your day with a casual dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) in Kyoto.
Explore the dining options in Uji or head back to Kyoto for dinner.
¥1200, 2 hours
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Day 6: Historical Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on May 6, 2024

9:00AM

Nijo Castle

Start your day at Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens and historic architecture.
Take a bus or train to Nijojo-mae Station and walk to the castle entrance.
¥600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Gion District

Explore the traditional Gion District, known for its historic tea houses and preserved machiya (traditional townhouses).
Take a bus to Gion or walk from Nijo Castle if you prefer a scenic stroll.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Yasaka Pagoda

Visit the iconic Yasaka Pagoda in the Higashiyama District and soak in the traditional Kyoto atmosphere.
Walk from Gion to Yasaka Pagoda.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Local Cuisine Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many cozy eateries along the historic Pontocho Alley.
Stroll from Yasaka Pagoda to Pontocho Alley for dinner.
¥1500, 2 hours
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Day 7: Farewell Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 7, 2024

9:00AM

Philosopher's Path

Take a morning walk along the scenic Philosopher's Path, lined with cherry trees and traditional temples.
Walk from your accommodation to the starting point of the Philosopher's Path.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto's Kitchen, and sample local snacks and culinary delights.
Walk or take a short train ride to Nishiki Market in downtown Kyoto.
Varies based on food choices, 2 hours

2:00PM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace.
Take a bus or taxi to Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
¥400, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner

End your trip with a memorable farewell dinner at a traditional Kyoto restaurant.
Choose a recommended restaurant in the area for a special dinner experience.
¥2000, 2 hours
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