6-Day Itinerary Discovering Osaka and Kyoto: Culture, Cuisine, and Nature

Day 1: Exploring Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Start your day with delicious street food at Kuromon Ichiba Market. Try fresh sushi and grilled seafood for an authentic taste of Osaka.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Osaka Castle

Visit Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol of the city, and explore its beautiful garden and historical exhibits.
JPY600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Head to Dotonbori for lunch and enjoy local favorites like takoyaki and okonomiyaki while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shitennoji Temple

Explore one of Japan's oldest temples, Shitennoji, famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful gardens.
JPY300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Umeda Sky Building

Visit the Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views of the Osaka skyline from the Floating Garden Observatory.
JPY1500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening stroll at Nakanoshima Park

Relax with a walk in Nakanoshima Park, a riverside park boasting beautiful gardens and lovely walking paths.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in a mouthwatering dinner featuring high-quality Matsusaka beef at this renowned yakiniku restaurant.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 6, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe de L'ambre

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at this cozy cafe known for its high-quality coffee and delicious pastries.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Discover diverse marine life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world, with fascinating exhibits.
JPY2400, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Return to Kuromon Ichiba Market for tasty lunch options like grilled seafood and local delicacies.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

National Museum of Art, Osaka

Visit the National Museum of Art to explore its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
JPY1000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Shopping at Shinsaibashi District

Shop for fashion and souvenirs in the bustling Shinsaibashi shopping area, filled with trendy stores and boutiques.
Varies, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Equipage

Savor an exquisite dining experience at Equipage, a fine dining restaurant known for its creative dishes and elegant setting.
JPY8000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica

Before leaving Osaka, stop by % Arabica for fantastic coffee and freshly baked pastries for a quick breakfast.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take the JR train from Osaka to Kyoto, a quick and convenient journey that offers scenic views.
JPY540, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Start your Kyoto visit at Kinkaku-ji, the famous Golden Pavilion that shines beautifully over its surrounding pond.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a traditional Kyoto lunch at Yudofu Sagano, specializing in yudofu (tofu hot pot) with a serene atmosphere.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Ryoan-ji Temple

Visit Ryoan-ji Temple, renowned for its iconic rock garden, providing a unique and tranquil experience.
JPY300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, known for its towering stalks that create a serene atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Dine at Arashiyama Yoshimura, famous for its soba noodles and beautiful views of the Katsura River.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Nature and Culture in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day at Inoda Coffee, a beloved cafe famous for its traditional Japanese breakfast and rich coffee.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha to explore thousands of vibrant torii gates along the trails of this iconic shrine.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kichi Kichi Omurice

Indulge in a unique omurice experience at Kichi Kichi Omurice, where you’ll see an impressive torched omelet prepared right in front of you.
JPY3300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nijo Castle

Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful gardens and historical significance.
JPY1000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace and its expansive gardens, once home to the Japanese Emperor.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience traditional kaiseki at Isshisoden Nakamura, featuring seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation.
JPY10000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 9, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Acalin Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at Acalin Cafe, known for its homemade bread and wholesome breakfast options.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Begin your day at Kiyomizu-dera, a stunning temple famous for its wooden stage and spectacular city views.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Higashiyama District

Stroll around the picturesque streets of the Higashiyama District, filled with traditional shops and tea houses.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Omen

Savor handmade udon noodles at Omen, a popular udon spot with a cozy atmosphere.
JPY1800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Visit Ginkaku-ji, known for its stunning gardens and peaceful surroundings, offering a glimpse into Zen culture.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Stroll in Philosopher's Path

Relax with a leisurely walk along the Philosopher's Path, a scenic walkway lined with cherry blossoms and quaint cafes.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant A-Wai

Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Restaurant A-Wai, exploring innovative dishes inspired by seasonal Kyoto ingredients.
JPY4000, 2 hours
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Day 6: Return to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Louis de Funès

Delight in a French-inspired breakfast at Louis de Funès before heading back to Osaka.
JPY1300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Osaka

Take the JR train from Kyoto to Osaka for a smooth and efficient transfer back to the bustling city.
JPY540, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Visit Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, famous for its beautiful architecture and the vibrant festivals it hosts.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Explore Namba Yasaka Shrine, known for its unique lion-shaped stage and stunning greenery.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Matsuzakagyu Yakiniku M

Experience another serving of Matsusaka beef at Matsuzakagyu for a memorable farewell lunch.
JPY5000, 2 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Namba District

Spend your afternoon shopping in the vibrant Namba District, picking up last-minute souvenirs and enjoying the atmosphere.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Izakaya Toyo

Conclude your trip with a casual dinner at Izakaya Toyo, known for its lively atmosphere and grilled seafood cuisine.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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