10-Day Family Friendly Road Trip in Osaka, Japan - Nature, City, and Train Adventures

Day 1: Explore Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Osaka Castle

Start your journey at the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's rich history and a great spot for family photos with the castle backdrop.
From your hotel, it’s a short 15-minute drive to Osaka Castle via the city center.
JPY600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Enjoy a delicious family lunch at Dotonbori, famous for its street food; don't miss trying takoyaki and okonomiyaki!
A 10-minute drive from Osaka Castle will take you to Dotonbori.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Visit one of the world’s largest aquariums, where kids can marvel at the diverse marine life and interactive exhibits.
It’s approximately a 12-minute drive to the aquarium from Dotonbori.
JPY2400, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Savor kushikatsu, deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables, at this family-friendly restaurant in Osaka.
A 15-minute drive brings you to Kushikatsu Daruma for dinner.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a traditional Japanese breakfast to start your day energized for Nara's adventures.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nara Park

Meet the friendly free-roaming deer in Nara Park; kids will love feeding and interacting with these animals.
It’s about a 45-minute drive from Osaka to Nara Park.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Indulge in some fresh sushi at this local maguro (tuna) restaurant, where kids can enjoy watching sushi being prepared.
A 10-minute drive from Nara Park leads to Maguro Koya.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Todai-ji Temple

Explore the magnificent Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue that will leave the whole family in awe.
It’s approximately a 10-minute walk from Maguro Koya to the temple.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Naramachi

Enjoy a delightful dinner exploring traditional Japanese dishes at a charming restaurant in the Naramachi area.
A short 10-minute drive will take you to Naramachi for dinner.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel before departing for Kyoto.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Nara.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, breathtaking scenery that will delight the whole family.
A 30-minute drive from Nara will take you to Arashiyama.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Choose a cozy spot for a hot pot lunch featuring Kyoto’s famous tofu dishes that everyone will enjoy.
A 10-minute drive from the grove to the restaurant.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, which shines beautifully in the sunlight surrounded by tranquil gardens.
Roughly a 30-minute drive leads you to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Head to Gion for a traditional kaiseki dinner experience that will introduce your family to Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.
A 20-minute drive from Kinkaku-ji will get you to Gion.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Coastal Kobe

Kobe, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Kyoto, preparing for the short drive to Kobe.
Breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

Learn about the sake-making process at this family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits and tastings available for adults.
About a 45-minute drive takes you to the brewery.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café de l’Opera

Savor a uniquely Japanese dining experience offering locals’ favorites, right in the heart of Kobe.
A 15-minute drive from the brewery brings you to the café.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kobe Harborland

Stroll around Kobe Harborland, where family-friendly shops and entertainment await, including a lovely ferris wheel.
It’s a quick 10-minute drive from the café.
JPY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Steakland Kobe

Enjoy Kobe beef, a must-try when in the area, at this renowned spot, ensuring a memorable dinner experience.
A 15-minute drive will take you to Steakland.
JPY6000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Historical Himeji

Himeji, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast in Kobe and prepare for a trip to Himeji, famous for its castle.
Breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Himeji Castle

Explore Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized as one of Japan’s most spectacular castles.
It's a 1 hour drive from Kobe to Himeji Castle.
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shushiro

Enjoy a delightful sushi lunch at Shushiro, popular for its delicious offerings and family-friendly atmosphere.
Just a 10-minute drive away from the castle.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kokoen Garden

Wander through the picturesque Kokoen Garden, filled with beautiful landscapes and traditional tea houses for an afternoon stroll.
A short 5-minute drive from Shushiro leads you to Kokoen Garden.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Katsu An

Delight your family with delicious katsu dishes in a cozy and welcoming restaurant ambiance.
A 15-minute drive will take you to Katsu An.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Discover Okayama

Okayama, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for a day packed with exciting experiences by enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Himeji.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Korakuen Garden

Explore Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's three great gardens, where the family can relax and enjoy nature.
It's a 45-minute drive from Himeji to Okayama.
JPY400, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aoyama Tei

Dine at Aoyama Tei, known for its lovely setting and delicious courses that the entire family will enjoy.
A 10-minute drive will get you to the restaurant.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Okayama Castle

Visit Okayama Castle, where kids can learn about the history and explore the scenic views from the top.
A brief 5-minute drive from Aoyama Tei leads you to the castle.
JPY300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Yakiniku M

Enjoy a family-style yakiniku (grilled meat) dinner for a fun and interactive dining experience.
A 15-minute drive will take you to Yakiniku M.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Charming Kurashiki

Kurashiki, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the morning with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Okayama.
Breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bikan Historical Quarter

Stroll through the charming Bikan Historical Quarter featuring traditional wooden buildings and canals—a perfect photo op.
About a 20-minute drive from Okayama to Kurashiki.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kurashiki Kamenoko

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Kurashiki Kamenoko, known for its scrumptious curry and friendly atmosphere.
Just a 10-minute walk from Bikan Quarter.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Ohara Museum of Art

Explore this fascinating museum filled with impressive artworks that will spark the kids’ curiosity.
A short 10-minute walk from the restaurant to the museum.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bikan Cafe

Dine at Bikan Cafe for a taste of local specialties and classic favorites in a cozy setting.
Nearby, it’s just a 5-minute walk from the museum.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Historic Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Kurashiki before heading to Hiroshima with lasting memories of the previous day.
Breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to understand and remember the poignant history of the city.
It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Kurashiki to Hiroshima.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomi-mura

Sample Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomi-mura, a multi-floor restaurant specializing in local cuisine.
A short 10-minute walk from the Peace Park leads you to the restaurant.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hiroshima Castle

Explore Hiroshima Castle, known as the 'Carp Castle,’ and enjoy the surrounding gardens with your family.
Only a 10-minute drive from the restaurant gets you to the castle.
JPY370, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Shalom

Wrap up your day with a satisfying dinner featuring both local dishes and some international favorites at Shalom.
A 15-minute drive leads you to the restaurant.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 9: Miyajima Island Day

Miyajima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Hiroshima in preparation for the enchanting day ahead.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Miyajima Island

Take the scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island and witness the stunning views of the floating torii gate upon arrival.
The ferry terminal is a 20-minute drive from your hotel.
JPY1800, 1 hour (ferry ride)

11:00AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Explore Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its iconic red torii gate, a breathtaking sight for all ages.
The shrine is about a 15-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yakigaki-no-hayashi

Feast on grilled oysters at this popular spot, enjoyed by the whole family right on the island.
A short 5-minute walk gets you to the restaurant nearby.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Mount Misen Trail

Embark on an easy hike on Mount Misen, enjoying panoramic views and a sense of adventure together as a family.
From the restaurant, it's a 20-minute walk to the trail!
JPY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Momiji-tei

Relax after an adventurous day with dinner at Momiji-tei, featuring local flavors and delicious dishes on Miyajima.
A 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal after returning.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Return to Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Miyajima before heading back to Osaka.
Breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry Back to Hiroshima

Take the ferry back to Hiroshima and cherish the last moments on the island.
It's a short 5-minute walk to the ferry terminal.
JPY1800, 1 hour (ferry ride)

11:00AM

Drive Back to Osaka

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive back to Osaka as you reminisce about your family adventures over the past week.
It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Hiroshima to Osaka, with a stop along the way if needed.
JPY0, 3 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Shinsaibashi

Spend your afternoon shopping for souvenirs and enjoying light snacks at Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s famous shopping street.
It’s a 20-minute drive from your arrival location.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Running Sushi

Enjoy a final dinner at Running Sushi, where sushi travels on a conveyor belt, a fun experience kids will love!
A 10-minute drive from Shinsaibashi will bring you to the restaurant.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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