10-Day Family-Friendly Cultural Road Trip Itinerary in Osaka, Japan

Day 1: Explore Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Start your day with delicious street food at the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market, sampling fresh sushi and Takoyaki.
Walk or take the subway to Kuromon Ichiba Market.
JPY1000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Osaka Castle Visit

Explore the majestic Osaka Castle, soaking in the historical significance and beautiful gardens surrounding it.
Take the subway from Kuromon to Osaka Castle.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Head to Dotonbori for lunch, indulging in famous Gyoza and Kushikatsu.
Take a short walk from Osaka Castle to Dotonbori.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Universal Studios Japan

Spend the afternoon at Universal Studios Japan, a fun paradise for both kids and adults filled with thrilling rides.
Take the JR Yumesaki Line from Nishi Kujo Station to Universal City Station.
JPY8200, 5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Metro Diner

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at Metro Diner with a diverse menu.
Take the train back to Osaka city centre from Universal City.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start with a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café known for its rice and grilled fish.
Travel from Osaka to Kyoto by JR train.
JPY900, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
Take the train to Fushimi Inari Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Unagiya Hirokawa

Savour a traditional grilled eel lunch, a specialty of Kyoto.
Walk from the shrine to the restaurant nearby.
JPY2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kinkaku-ji Gold Pavilion Visit

Discover the breathtaking Golden Pavilion and its surrounding gardens.
Take the bus from the restaurant to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the serene paths of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Take a train from Kinkaku-ji Station to Arashiyama Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Try the famous soba noodles for dinner, a local favourite.
Walk to the restaurant within Arashiyama.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historical Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Doutor Coffee

Grab a quick light breakfast at Doutor Coffee with pastries and coffee.
Walk from your accommodation.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace

Explore the historical sites of the Kyoto Imperial Palace and expansive gardens.
Take the subway to the nearest station.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Nijo Castle

Marvel at the beautiful architecture and landscaping at historical Nijo Castle.
Short walk from the Imperial Palace.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various street food at Nishiki Market, the famous culinary destination.
Take a bus to Nishiki Market.
JPY1200, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Experience the beauty of Kiyomizu-dera Temple with stunning views over Kyoto.
Take a bus from Nishiki Market.
JPY400, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Omen

Enjoy a bowl of udon noodles at this famous noodle shop.
Take a bus down from Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY1500, 1 hour
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Day 4: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel your day.
Stay where you are; breakfast is included.
INCLUDED, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Nara

Take the train from Kyoto to Nara, known for its free-roaming deer.
Take the JR train from Kyoto Station to Nara Station.
JPY720, 1 hour

10:30AM

Nara Park

Interact with the friendly deer and take photos in Nara Park.
Walk from Nara Station to the park.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Savour fresh tuna sushi and local specialties at this popular spot.
Walk towards the restaurant from Nara Park.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Todaiji Temple

Visit the Great Buddha statue and impressive Todaiji Temple.
Walk from Maguro Koya to Todaiji Temple.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hiking Up Mount Wakakusa

Take a leisurely hike to the top of Mount Wakakusa for breathtaking views.
Walk from Todaiji Temple to Mount Wakakusa.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kikusuiro

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal at Kikusuiro, a feast for both eyes and palate.
Take a bus back to Nara City center.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Kobe Coastal Vibes

Kobe, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a buffet breakfast at your accommodation.
Stay where you are; breakfast is included.
INCLUDED, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kobe

Head to Kobe to explore its unique culture and the beautiful waterfront.
Take the JR train from Nara Station to Kobe Station.
JPY600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Kobe Harborland

Stroll through Kobe Harborland for shopping and seaside views.
Walk from Kobe Station to Harborland.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kobe Beef Steakhouse

Experience the famous Kobe beef at a renowned steakhouse.
Walk from Harborland to the steakhouse.
JPY8000, 2 hours

3:00PM

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Enjoy the views from Nunobiki Herb Gardens and take a cable car ride.
Take the cable car from Meriken Park to Herb Gardens.
JPY1500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tofu Cuisine Kankoku

Enjoy a vegetarian tofu dinner with delicious seasonal ingredients.
Take a bus back to the city centre.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Himeji Castle Excursion

Himeji, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Stay where you are; breakfast is included.
INCLUDED, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Himeji

Take the train to Himeji for a historical castle experience.
Catch the JR train from Kobe Station to Himeji Station.
JPY1300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Himeji Castle Tour

Explore the magnificent Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walk from Himeji Station to the castle.
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Taiwa

Try the local specialty of Himeji—Eel, at Taiwa.
Take a short walk from Himeji Castle.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kokoen Garden

Visit the beautiful Kokoen Garden, right next to Himeji Castle.
Walk to Kokoen Garden after lunch.
JPY300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Himeji City

Wander through the city and enjoy its charming streets.
Walk through the downtown area near the castle.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Izakaya Yosotoyu

Enjoy an izakaya-style dinner with a variety of dishes.
Return to Himeji Station and find the Izakaya nearby.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Okayama Adventure

Okayama, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel to start the day energized.
Stay where you are; breakfast is included.
INCLUDED, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Okayama

Hop onto a train bound for Okayama to explore its gardens.
Take the JR train from Himeji Station to Okayama Station.
JPY1800, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Korakuen Garden

Stumble upon the beauty of Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's top three gardens.
Walk from Okayama Station to the garden.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hayashitei

Savour a delicious local dish known as Okayama-mentai.
Find the restaurant near Korakuen Garden.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Okayama Castle Tour

Explore the historic Okayama Castle and its exhibits.
Quick walk from Korakuen to Okayama Castle.
JPY300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Kibitsu Shrine

Enjoy the picturesque view and tranquility at Kibitsu Shrine.
Take a bus from Okayama Castle.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ajitsugita

Relish a delicious meal at Ajitsugita, known for its seasonal sets.
Take the bus back towards Okayama city centre.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Cultural Kurashiki

Kurashiki, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a delightful breakfast at the hotel.
Stay where you are; breakfast is included.
INCLUDED, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kurashiki

Travel to Kurashiki, known for its beautiful old streets.
Catch the train from Okayama Station to Kurashiki Station.
JPY600, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Wander through the picturesque Bikan Area, filled with historic buildings and shops.
Walk from the station to the quarter.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Curry Marugame

Savour delicious curry at this popular local restaurant.
Find the restaurant within the historical quarter.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Ohara Museum of Art

Experience western art at Japan's first museum of western art.
Walk within the Bikan Historical Quarter.
JPY1300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Kurashiki River

Take a relaxing stroll along the beautiful Kurashiki River.
Walk along the riverbank.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Kura Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful meal in a traditional setting at Kura Restaurant.
Return to the historical quarter, where the restaurant is located.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Hiroshima's Heritage

Hiroshima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel.
Stay where you are; breakfast is included.
INCLUDED, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Travel to Hiroshima for a day full of history.
Catch the Shinkansen from Okayama to Hiroshima.
JPY4000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Learn about Hiroshima's history at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
Walk from the station to the park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Try the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for lunch at this popular eatery.
Walk from the park.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Shukkeien Garden

Take a peaceful walk through this stunning Japanese garden.
Take a bus from Okonomimura to the garden.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Nagatoya

Satisfy your cravings with Hiroshima-style oysters at a popular restaurant.
Take a bus back to the city center.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Okayama

Return to Okayama for the night back at your accommodation.
Catch the Shinkansen back to Okayama.
JPY4000, 1 hour
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Day 10: Wrap Up in Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan at your hotel.
Stay where you are; breakfast is included.
INCLUDED, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Experience the wonders of marine life at one of the world's largest aquariums.
Take the subway to Osakako Station.
JPY2400, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Enjoy a casual lunch at the nearby Tempozan Marketplace with a selection of food stalls.
Walk from the aquarium to the marketplace.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Osaka Museum of History

Dive into Osaka's past at this well-curated museum with engaging exhibits.
Take the subway to the museum.
JPY600, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shopping in Shinsaibashi

Spend your last few hours shopping in Shinsaibashi, Osaka's vibrant shopping district.
Take the subway to Shinsaibashi Station.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Matsuzushi

Celebrate the end of your Japanese adventure with sushi and traditional cuisine at Matsuzushi.
Walk or take the subway back to Matsuzushi.
JPY3500, 2 hours
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