13-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in Osaka, Kyoto, and Himeji

Day 1: Explore Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Osaka Castle

Start your journey by visiting the iconic Osaka Castle, a historic symbol surrounded by a beautiful park.
Take the subway to Tanimachi 4-chome Station.
JPY600, 2 hours

11:30AM

Dotonbori District

Stroll the bustling Dotonbori District, famous for its neon lights and street food temptations.
Walk from Osaka Castle to Dotonbori (approx. 15 mins).
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dotonbori Konamon Academy

Savor a delicious bowl of takoyaki, a must-try local dish.
Located within Dotonbori.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Visit one of the world’s largest aquariums, featuring diverse marine life.
Take the subway to Osakako Station.
JPY2300, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy a typical Osaka meal with skewered and deep-fried delicacies.
Return to Dotonbori area (approx. 30 mins).
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Insights

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Shitennoji Temple

Discover Shitennoji, the oldest temple in Japan, and experience its rich history.
Take the subway to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Namba Parks Shopping Mall

Shop and explore the unique architecture of Namba Parks with rooftop gardens.
Take the subway to Namba Station.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Namba Horumon

Taste Osaka's famous grilled offal at this local favorite.
Within Namba Parks.
JPY1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Umeda Sky Building

Experience panoramic city views from the Floating Garden Observatory.
Take the subway to Umeda Station.
JPY1000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yakiniku M, Umeda

Savor a premium yakiniku experience in a lively atmosphere.
Just a short walk from Umeda Sky Building.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Fun at Universal Studios

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Universal Studios Japan

Spend a full day experiencing the thrilling rides and attractions that cater to all ages.
Take the train to Universal City Station.
JPY8000, 8 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe

End your exhilarating day with a hearty meal at this rock-themed cafe inside the park.
Dine at Universal City Walk.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

10:00AM

Travel to Kyoto

Head to Kyoto, famed for its classical Buddhist temples and gardens.
Take the JR train from Osaka to Kyoto Station (30 mins).
JPY560, 30 mins

11:00AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning golden temple surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Take a bus from Kyoto Station (approx. 40 mins).
JPY400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Taste delicious soba and enjoy views of the river.
Take a bus back to the central area (approx. 30 mins).
JPY1800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanting paths of the famous bamboo forest.
Take a short train ride to Arashiyama Station (approx. 20 mins).
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen

Enjoy a steaming bowl of tonkotsu ramen at this popular chain.
Return to Kyoto city center (approx. 50 mins).
JPY1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Visit the iconic shrine known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station (approx. 5 mins).
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Savor a traditional okonomiyaki pancake, made fresh on the grill.
Back to Kyoto Station (approx. 10 mins).
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nijo Castle

Explore the historic site featuring beautiful architecture and gardens.
Take a taxi from the restaurant (15 mins).
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gion District Walk

Discover the geisha district with its charming streets and traditional tea houses.
Walk from Nijo Castle (approx. 30 mins).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Indulge in a kaiseki meal, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner.
Close by in Gion.
JPY6000, 2 hours
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Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Arashiyama Monkey Park

Enjoy a unique experience by interacting with monkeys and panoramic views of Kyoto.
Take a train to Arashiyama Station (approx. 20 mins).
JPY600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sagano

Feast on yudofu (tofu hot pot) in the serene atmosphere of Arashiyama.
Near the monkey park.
JPY2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful gardens.
A short walk from the restaurant.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Okochi Sanso Villa

Spend peaceful moments in the beautiful villa with exquisite gardens.
Just a 10-minute walk.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience dining in this traditional alley, with multiple choices to explore.
Head back to central Kyoto (approx. 30 mins).
JP1500-4500 (varies per spot), 2 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Himeji

Himeji, Japan

9:00AM

Travel to Himeji

Head to Himeji, famous for its stunning castle.
Take the JR train from Kyoto Station to Himeji (approx. 1 hour).
JPY1500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Himeji Castle

Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage site, often referred to as 'White Heron Castle.'
A short walk from Himeji Station.
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Himeji Shokudo

Enjoy a local specialty, Himeji Oden, in this cozy cafe.
Nearby the castle.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kokoen Garden

Explore this beautiful Japanese garden right next to Himeji Castle.
Adjacent to Himeji Castle.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Himeji City Museum of Art

Learn about local art and history at this charming museum.
Approx. 15 minutes walk from Kokoen Garden.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Shingen

Dine on delicious sashimi and seasonal dishes at this authentic Japanese restaurant.
Return towards the train station area.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Adventure in Himeji

Himeji, Japan

8:30AM

Travel to Mount Shosha

Take a cable car up to Mount Shosha, where you can enjoy stunning hiking trails and views.
Take the bus from Himeji Station (approx. 20 mins).
JPY2000, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Yamatoya

Enjoy a delicious meal with local flavors after your hike.
Return to the Himeji Station area (approx. 30 mins).
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Meiren-ji Temple

Visit this serene temple, known for its peaceful ambiance and stunning case.
Approx. 20-minute walk from the restaurant.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Himeji Castle again for night illumination

Witness the castle lit up beautifully during the evening.
Train back to Himeji Station.
Included with the castle pass, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Shiraae

Dine on various local dishes made from fresh ingredients and seasonal flavors.
Located near Himeji Castle.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Leisure Day in Himeji

Himeji, Japan

9:00AM

Ikuno Ginja Shrine

Visit this stunning shrine known for its beautiful grounds and tranquility.
Take a bus (approx. 30 mins) from Himeji Station.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Himeji Central Park

Enjoy a fun amusement park experience with rides and attractions for kids of all ages.
Bus back to Himeji Station, then a short bus ride (approx. 30 mins).
JPY3000, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Himeji Central Park Restaurant

Relax with a simple lunch at the park.
Onsite.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shopping in Himeji

Explore local shops for souvenirs like hand-crafted items or local delicacies.
Return to Himeji Station (approx. 30 mins).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Wakadanna

Enjoy a hearty meal with family-friendly dining options.
Close to Himeji Station.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Return to Osaka

Osaka, Japan

10:00AM

Travel back to Osaka

Travel back to Osaka for another day of exploration.
Take the JR train from Himeji to Osaka (approx. 1 hour).
JPY1500, 1 hour

11:30AM

Osaka Science Museum

Engage with fun, hands-on exhibits that are perfect for the whole family.
Take the subway from Osaka Station (approx. 15 mins).
JPY600, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Franch Cafe

Enjoy a light snack or sandwich at this cozy cafe after the museum.
Near the museum.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

Ride one of the world's largest Ferris wheels for incredible views of Osaka.
Take the subway to Osakako Station (approx. 30 mins).
JPY900, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Fugu-ya Sasaki

Savor a unique dining experience featuring fugu (pufferfish), prepared by skilled chefs.
Near the Tempozan area.
JPY6000, 2 hours
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Day 11: Relaxing Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan

10:00AM

Spa World

Unwind at this hot spring theme park featuring a variety of pools and saunas.
Take the subway to Dobutsuen-mae Station.
JPY1000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Amaze

Enjoy a delightful brunch spread with a great atmosphere.
A short walk from Spa World.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Shopping at Shinsaibashi

Explore the shopping street, filled with both boutiques and well-known brands.
Take the subway back to Shinsaibashi Station.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Matsusaka Beef Yakiniku

Indulge in top-quality Matsusaka beef grilled to perfection.
A short subway ride from Shinsaibashi.
JPY6000, 2 hours
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Day 12: Final Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Explore Osaka's Street Art

Wander through neighborhoods that showcase incredible street art and murals.
Walking tour in local neighborhoods.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Le Bouchon

Treat yourself to this French bistro's delightful touches.
Located near the street art areas.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Osaka Museum of History

Learn about Osaka's interesting past with interactive exhibits.
A taxi ride from the restaurant (approx. 15 mins).
JPY600, 2 hours

3:30PM

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Check out this unique shrine featuring a giant lion head-shaped building.
Walk from the museum (approx. 20 mins).
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Matsusaka Yakiniku Yokocho

Enjoy a farewell meal with a selection of grilled meats at this vibrant street food area.
Close to Namba, cash only.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 13: Departure

Osaka, Japan

10:00AM

Last-minute shopping or relaxation

Spend your final hours in Osaka gathering souvenirs or enjoying a last bite of local cuisine.
Explore areas near your accommodation.
Variable, Variable
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