Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary Staying in Osaka with Day Trips to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe

Day 1: Explore Kyoto's Culture

Kyoto, Japan on March 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Start your day with a delicious bowl of soba noodles at this quaint restaurant located near the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the serene and otherworldly paths of the bamboo grove, a perfect photo spot and a great way for kids to explore nature.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning gardens and tranquil scenery that will amaze both kids and adults alike.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yoshida-sanso

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch in a beautiful setting, great experience for both parents and kids.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

This breathtaking Zen temple covered in gold leaf is surrounded by beautiful gardens, creating a picture-perfect spot for families.
JPY 400, 1 hour

5:00PM

Travel back to Osaka

Return to Osaka, a short train ride of about 30 minutes.
JPY 400, 1 hour including travel time

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience a family-friendly izakaya offering a variety of Japanese dishes, perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day of adventuring.
JPY 2000, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Kyoto Castles and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsujiri Tea House

Indulge in a matcha breakfast set, which is not only delicious but also a unique experience for kids to learn about Japanese tea culture.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nijo Castle

Explore this historical castle with beautiful gardens. Kids will enjoy the nightingale floor that chirps when walked on.
JPY 1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kyoto Station’s The Cube

Enjoy a variety of quick and tasty options perfect for children, including sushi and ramen.
JPY 2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kyoto Railway Museum

A fascinating place for kids and adults, with interactive exhibits showcasing the history of Japan's railways and a lot of trains to explore.
JPY 1200, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Kyoto Aquarium

Kids will love seeing the various sea creatures and interactive activities, making it a fun and educational experience.
JPY 2000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Return to Osaka

Take a train back to Osaka for dinner and a good night’s rest.
JPY 400, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Savor a traditional tofu hot pot dinner that is healthy yet flavorful, suitable for young taste buds.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on March 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple buffet breakfast at your hotel that caters to both child-friendly and adult tastes.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Nara

Take a short train ride from Osaka to Nara, about 45 minutes, and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
JPY 400, 1 hour including travel time

10:30AM

Nara Park

Visit this famous park where friendly deer roam freely. Kids will have a blast feeding and interacting with the deer.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

A great place to try tuna bowls, fresh and delicious, that both kids and adults can enjoy.
JPY 2000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Todai-ji Temple

Discover the impressive Great Buddha statue housed in this temple, a sight you and your child will not forget.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Isuien Garden

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this beautiful garden with ponds and pathways, perfect for letting kids explore.
JPY 900, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Osaka

Take a train back to Osaka, giving the kids time to relax and unwind during the journey.
JPY 400, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Explore Pontocho Alley for a variety of dining options, with traditional Japanese meals that children will find delicious.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Discover Kobe's Charm

Kobe, Japan on March 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast at your hotel that will give you enough energy for a fun-packed day in Kobe.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kobe

Take a train to Kobe, approximately 30 minutes journey with beautiful views en route.
JPY 300, 30 minutes including travel time

10:30AM

Kobe Harborland

Explore the waterfront area with shops, entertainment, and a Ferris wheel, perfect for kids to enjoy.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Steakland Kobe

Indulge in world-famous Kobe beef prepared just right for you, an experience that will delight your taste buds.
JPY 6000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kobe Animal Kingdom

A unique zoo where children can interact with animals and see them in a natural environment—great fun!
JPY 2400, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Osaka

Take a train back to Osaka after an exciting day in Kobe.
JPY 300, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Koshimachi

Enjoy a relaxing meal at this restaurant known for its delicious sushi and family-friendly atmosphere.
JPY 3500, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Adventure in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet which offers a good variety for both adults and kids.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Universal Studios Japan

A must-visit for families, enjoy thrilling rides and attractions suitable for young children and adults alike.
JPY 8000, 6 hours

5:00PM

Early Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe

Refuel with a hearty meal at this family-friendly restaurant with a menu that caters to kids' tastes.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Catch the Osaka Night View

Head up to the Umeda Sky Building for an incredible panoramic view of the city, a wonderful way to end your day.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

Day 6: Final Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on March 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de Lune

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in this cozy café that offers a selection of pastries, omelets, and drinks for all ages.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, your child will be enchanted by the variety of sea life and interactive exhibits.
JPY 2400, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Try famous street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in this vibrant area. It's a kid-friendly food adventure.
JPY 2000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Shitenno-ji Temple

Visit this ancient temple, one of the oldest in Japan, where children can enjoy exploring the temple grounds.
JPY 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Shinsaibashi

Spend some time shopping in one of Osaka's most popular shopping districts, kid-friendly stores abound.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Zuboraya

Wrap up your journey with a famous fugu (pufferfish) dinner for adventurous eaters, while kids can stick to simpler fare.
JPY 4000, 1.5 hours