7-Day Kansai Adventure Itinerary for University Students

Day 1: Explore Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 14, 2025

9:00AM

Osaka Castle

Visit the historic Osaka Castle, a landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering panoramic views of the city.
JPY600, 2 hours

11:30AM

Dotonbori District

Head to the bustling Dotonbori for shopping and street food, famous for its neon lights and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Try fugu (pufferfish) at Zuboraya, a famous eatery renowned for its delicious and safe-to-eat preparation of this delicacy.
JPY1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kuromon Ichiba Market

Stroll through Kuromon Ichiba Market, sampling fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in high-quality Matsusaka beef at this famous yakiniku restaurant that offers a unique dining experience.
JPY5000, 2 hours

Day 2: Cultural Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shitennoji Temple

Explore Shitennoji, one of Japan's oldest temples, known for its impressive architecture and tranquil gardens.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kushikatsu Daruma

Savour Osaka's signature dish, kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), at the renowned Kushikatsu Daruma.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Visit one of the world's largest aquariums, featuring marine life from the Pacific Rim and interactive exhibits.
JPY2300, 3 hours

5:00PM

Umeda Sky Building

Head to the Umeda Sky Building for a breathtaking view of Osaka from its floating garden observatory.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Enjoy a delicious bowl of tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran, a famous ramen chain known for its unique ordering system.
JPY1000, 1 hour

Day 3: Transfer to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take a train from Osaka to Kyoto, enjoying the scenic views during the short journey.
JPY600, 1 hour

11:30AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, set within beautiful gardens.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Try various local dishes at Nishiki Market, a vibrant market known for its food stalls and unique culinary offerings.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Ryoan-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its rock garden and serene atmosphere.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Check into Hotel

Check-in to your chosen accommodation in Kyoto and relax a bit before heading out again.
JPY0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at Gion Kappa, offering a delightful multi-course meal with seasonal ingredients.
JPY6000, 2 hours

Day 4: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at your hotel.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding through the hills.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Inari Sushi Koji

Try the unique inari sushi at this charming eatery near Fushimi Inari Shrine.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a breathtaking experience surrounded by towering bamboo.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Togetsukyo Bridge

Enjoy scenic views of the river and mountains from Togetsukyo Bridge, and take in the picturesque surroundings.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Savour the unique burnt miso ramen at Kyoto Gogyo, a must-try for ramen lovers visiting Kyoto.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Final Kyoto Adventures

Kyoto, Japan on May 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before your final day of exploration.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit Kiyomizu-dera, famous for its wooden stage providing stunning views over the cherry blossoms and city.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Kiraku

Try Osaka-style okonomiyaki at Kiraku, a great casual spot for this savoury pancake dish.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nanzenji Temple

Explore the beautiful grounds of Nanzenji Temple and discover its stunning gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Hotel

Return to your hotel to pack and prepare for your departure.
JPY0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the many izakayas in Pontocho Alley, enjoying the lively atmosphere of Kyoto.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Travel Back to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a final breakfast in Kyoto before checking out and heading to Osaka.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel to Osaka

Take the train back to Osaka for your last day of exploration.
JPY600, 1 hour

11:30AM

Shopping at Shinsaibashi

Shop for souvenirs and unique items at Shinsaibashi, Osaka's premier shopping district.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Tsurutontan

Try the famous udon noodles at Tsurutontan, known for its large portions and stylish setting.
JPY1800, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Spa World

Relax and unwind at Spa World, a large onsen complex featuring various baths and a health spa.
JPY1400, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sakae Sushi

Enjoy kaiten sushi (conveyor belt sushi) at Sakae Sushi for a fun and affordable meal.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Departure

Osaka, Japan on May 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a final breakfast in Osaka before checking out.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Departure to Airport

Travel to Kansai International Airport for your return flight to Hong Kong.
JPY2000, 1 hour