Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Osaka, Japan from Tokyo

Day 1: Cultural and Culinary Adventure

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast on the Shinkansen

Grab a bento box breakfast from a convenience store or food vendor at Tokyo Station, and enjoy it on your scenic train ride to Osaka.
Board the Shinkansen at Tokyo Station heading towards Osaka.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Arrive in Osaka and Head to Osaka Castle

Upon arrival, make your first stop at Osaka Castle, an iconic landmark surrounded by stunning gardens.
Take the JR Line from Osaka Station to Osakajokoen Station, which takes about 15 minutes.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Walk through Osaka Castle Park

Take a relaxing stroll around the expansive Osaka Castle Park, appreciating the beautiful scenery and historical structures.
The park surrounds the castle, so it’s a short walk.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch in Dotonbori

Travel to Dotonbori for lunch where you can sample famous street foods like okonomiyaki or a bowl of hot ramen.
Take the Chuo Line from Tanimachi 4-chome Station to Namba Station (20 minutes).
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Wander around Shinsaibashi, the bustling shopping arcade that offers countless shops and boutiques for you to explore.
It’s a 10-minute walk from Dotonbori to Shinsaibashi.
Free to browse, shopping costs vary, 1 hour

4:15PM

Visit the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)

Travel to the Osaka Aquarium, recognized as one of the largest and most spectacular aquariums, featuring diverse marine life, including the renowned whale shark.
Take the subway from Shinsaibashi Station to Osakako Station, about 30 minutes.
JPY 2300, 2 hours

6:15PM

Relax at Tempozan Harbor Village

Enjoy the beautiful sunset views and take a leisurely walk around Tempozan Harbor Village, home to shops and a large Ferris wheel.
The aquarium is part of the village; just walk outside.
Free, 1 hour

7:15PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Experience traditional Japanese dining at a local izakaya, sampling delicious dishes such as grilled chicken skewers and sake.
Travel back to Dotonbori on the subway (about 15-20 minutes) to find numerous izakaya options.
JPY 3000, 2 hours

9:15PM

Evening Stroll in Dotonbori

Conclude your day with an evening stroll through Dotonbori, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere with dazzling neon lights and the famous Glico Man sign.
Walk from your dinner location in Dotonbori.
Free, 1 hour
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