4-Day Nature and Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Osaka

Day 1: Cultural Sights

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Matsuya Miyamoto

Start your day with a hearty Japanese-style breakfast, featuring grilled fish, rice, and miso soup.
Head to the nearby Matsuya Miyamoto located within walking distance of the hotel.
JPY 1,200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Osaka Castle

Explore the historical Osaka Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens that showcase the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture.
Take the Osaka Loop Line from Yodoyabashi Station to Osakajokoen Station.
JPY 600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Enjoy the lively atmosphere and try local specialities like takoyaki and okonomiyaki at one of the many street vendors.
Take a short train ride from Osaka Castle to Namba Station, then walk to Dotonbori.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shitennoji Temple

Visit the serene Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples, to gain insight into Buddhist culture.
Take the subway from Namba Station to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station.
JPY 300, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Savour the famous Osaka dish of kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at a local favourite restaurant.
Return to Namba Station and walk to Kushikatsu Daruma's nearest branch.
JPY 2,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Explore Dotonbori Nightlife

Stroll along Dotonbori’s illuminated streets, and perhaps take some photos with the iconic Glico Man sign.
Walking around Dotonbori.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature & Culture

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a Western-style breakfast at Prince Smart Inn before heading out to explore Kyoto.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Free with accommodation, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama

Take a serene walk through the famous Bamboo Grove, surrounded by towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze.
Take the JR train from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
Walking distance from the Bamboo Grove.
JPY 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Okocho Saryo

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch in a tea house that overlooks the garden.
Close to Tenryu-ji Temple.
JPY 3,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha

Wander through the thousands of vibrant red torii gates at Fushimi Inari, immersing yourself in its mystical atmosphere.
Take the train back to Kyoto Station, then take the Nara Line to Inari Station.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Sample Kyoto-style sushi dishes at this prestigious restaurant, known for its unique flavour.
Return to Kyoto Station, and walk to the restaurant.
JPY 5,000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Start your day with a stroll through Nishiki Market, sampling breakfast delights like tsukemono (pickled vegetables) and yudofu (tofu).
Take a short bus or tram to Nishiki Market.
JPY 1,000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Zen Buddhist temple adorned in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Take bus number 101 or 205 from Nishiki Market.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch near Kinkaku-ji

Enjoy a meal at a local soba restaurant, known for its delicate handmade noodles.
Walking distance from Kinkaku-ji.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Nijo Castle

Explore Nijo Castle’s stunning architecture and gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Japan's feudal history.
Take the bus back to the city centre.
JPY 1,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience kaiseki dining at its finest in the historic Gion district.
Take a bus from Nijo Castle to Gion.
JPY 6,000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Back to Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Prince Smart Inn

Indulge in a delicious breakfast before checking out of the hotel.
Dining at the hotel.
Free with accommodation, 1 hour

10:30AM

Travel back to Osaka

Spend the morning traveling back to Osaka, ready for more city exploration.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station.
JPY 580, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Delve into marine life at one of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing diverse ecosystems.
Take the subway from Osaka Station to Osakakai Station.
JPY 2,400, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Grab a bite at this vibrant marketplace with plenty of options, including sushi and ramen.
Short walk from Osaka Aquarium.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Visit one of Japan's oldest shrines, surrounded by beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
Take the subway from Osakakai Station to Sumiyoshi Taisha Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Matsuzushi

Enjoy a final sushi dinner, showcasing the region's freshest seafood and fine dining experience.
Take the subway back to the city centre.
JPY 4,000, 2 hours
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