8 Nights Off the Beaten Path in Japan: Osaka, Okayama, and Hiroshima

Day 1: Arrival in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on March 5, 2025

9:00 AM

Kuromon Ichiba Market Visit

Start your day with the vibrant sights and sounds of Kuromon Ichiba Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.
JPY2000, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Nakazakicho

Wander through the quaint streets of Nakazakicho, known for its vintage shops and cozy cafés, offering a relaxed atmosphere away from the tourist hotspots.
FREE, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Matsusaka Sanda Wakou

Indulge in high-quality Matsusaka beef at this less crowded restaurant, known for its succulent grilled meat and serene ambiance.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the National Museum of Art

Discover contemporary art inside a unique underground structure, featuring works from both Japanese and international artists.
JPY1500, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy a traditional Osaka dish, kushikatsu, deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables, at this popular local eatery.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Osaka to Okayama

Osaka, Japan on March 6, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at La Panaderia

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and gourmet coffee at this peaceful bakery in Osaka.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Transit to Okayama

Catch the train to Okayama, enjoying the Japanese countryside as you travel.
JPY5000, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Okayama Korakuen Garden

Visit one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, filled with traditional landscaping and seasonal flowers, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Umenoya

Try Okayama's specialty, kakeudon, thick udon noodles in a light broth, at this local favorite.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Kibitsu Jinja Shrine

Explore this serene shrine dedicated to the deity of victory and success, surrounded by beautiful forested paths.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Ramen Umami

Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen at this cozy restaurant known for their rich broth and friendly service.
JPY800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Exploring Okayama

Okayama, Japan on March 7, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Rassurant

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast featuring fluffy pancakes and seasonal fruits in a charming atmosphere.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Okayama Castle

Explore the iconic Okayama Castle and its beautiful grounds, offering a wonderful view of the city.
JPY410, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sushiro

Enjoy sushi on a budget at this conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, where you can sample various dishes as they pass by.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore the Bikan Historical Area

Wander through this preserved area with old traditional buildings, picturesque canals, and a tranquil environment.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Tani

Experience a home-cooked feel with traditional Japanese dishes prepared using local ingredients in a relaxing setting.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Exploring Okayama

Okayama, Japan on March 8, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hoshinoya Café

Indulge in artisanal coffee and a variety of homemade cakes at this cozy, less-known café.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Experience traditional Japanese architecture and artisanal shops in this charming historical district.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Rojiura Curry Samurai

Savor a unique twist on Japanese curry made with creative local ingredients at this quirky place.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Ohara Museum of Art

Discover notable collections of Western and Japanese art in one of Japan's first private art museums.
JPY1300, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Aisuke

Enjoy a regional dish of grilled fish with rice at this local gem known for its authentic Japanese flavors.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Okayama to Hiroshima

Okayama, Japan on March 9, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café St. Germain

Start your day with freshly baked croissants and a cup of coffee in this charming café.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Transit to Hiroshima

Take the train from Okayama to Hiroshima, enjoying the comfortable ride.
JPY3500, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park

Discover a lesser-known zoo with a variety of animals, surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for a stroll.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Dentsu Izakaya

Savor local flavors at this izakaya, which offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh seasonal dishes.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore the Shukkei-en Garden

Visit this historic Japanese landscape garden, known for its stunning scenery and traditional teahouse.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Okonomiyaki Nagata-ya

Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this beloved local spot, known for its layered savory pancake.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Exploring Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on March 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Aube

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with French pastries and coffee in an understated, artsy setting.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore innovative exhibitions in this museum that focuses on contemporary artists, both local and international.
JPY600, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Shokudo Togarashi

Savor delicious in-house crafted bento boxes and set meals in a laid-back atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Walk along the Hijiyama Park

Stroll through this lush park with walking paths, views of the city, and interesting sculptures along the way.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hoshikuzu Shokudo

Enjoy a delightful meal featuring various Izakaya-style dishes made from locally sourced fresh ingredients.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Hiroshima Attractions

Hiroshima, Japan on March 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hokuyokudo Café

Savour homemade bread and local jam in a quaint atmosphere for a pleasant start to your day.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Reflect on history at this important memorial park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Cafe Gallo

Enjoy hearty sandwiches and organic salads in a calming space, perfect for lunch.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore the Hiroshima Botanical Garden

Discover beautiful plant life and relax in nature at this well-preserved garden less frequented by tourists.
JPY400, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Akagane

Indulge in a multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients, prepared thoughtfully for an unforgettable experience.
JPY6000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Departure from Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on March 12, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Aoshi Cafe

End your trip with a delightful breakfast featuring Japanese pancakes and an assortment of teas.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Last-minute shopping at Hondori Shopping Arcade

Pick up some unique souvenirs from local shops in this vibrant arcade before you leave.
FREE, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Gion Shichifuku

Enjoy a bowl of tasty udon or soba before heading to the station for your departure.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability