14-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara

Day 1: Arrival and Osaka Highlights

Osaka, Japan on May 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Enjoy fresh seafood and local street food at one of Osaka's most famous markets, perfect for an authentic Japanese breakfast experience.
JPY1500, 1h

10:30am

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the historic Osaka Castle, a symbol of Osaka with beautiful grounds and a museum inside showcasing its history.
JPY600, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Dotonbori

Savor iconic Osaka dishes such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki along the lively Dotonbori canal area, bustling with shops and neon lights.
JPY2000, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Shop in one of Osaka’s largest and most famous shopping arcades, featuring local boutiques and international brands.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Floating Garden Observatory in the Umeda Sky Building before sunset.
JPY1500, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Try Osaka’s famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at this popular and authentic eatery located in the Shinsekai area.
JPY2500, 1h
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Day 2: Osaka Cultural & Leisure

Osaka, Japan on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Micasadeco & Cafe

Start your day with fluffy pancakes and coffee at this renowned Osaka café offering a Western-style breakfast.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Universal Studios Japan

Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan enjoying thrilling rides and shows themed around popular movies and characters.
JPY8800, 7h

5:00pm

Return to Hotel and Rest

Relax after a busy day at the theme park and prepare for dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tsurutontan Soemoncho

Dine on elegant udon noodles with a variety of toppings at this modern Japanese udon specialty restaurant.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 3: Day Trip to Kobe

Osaka/Kobe, Japan on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel or Nearby Café

Enjoy a light breakfast before taking a train to Kobe, about 30 minutes from Osaka.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kobe Harborland

Explore the scenic waterfront with shopping, cafes, and views of the iconic Kobe Port Tower.
Free, 1.5h

11:00am

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Take a cable car ride up to stunning gardens with panoramic views over Kobe city and harbor.
JPY1200, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Steakland Kobe-kan

Indulge in authentic Kobe beef steak, a local delicacy known worldwide for its tenderness and flavor.
JPY6000, 1.5h

3:30pm

Return to Osaka

Head back to Osaka and rest for the evening.
JPY900, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Hozenji Yokocho Alley

Explore this atmospheric alley with traditional eateries and enjoy authentic Osaka cuisine in a cozy setting.
JPY3000, 1.5h
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Day 4: Osaka Museums & Temples

Osaka, Japan on May 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Try expertly brewed coffee paired with a light pastry in this specialty café.
JPY1000, 1h

10:00am

Visit Osaka Museum of History

Discover Osaka’s rich history from ancient times to the modern era through engaging exhibits.
JPY600, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Chitose

Try Osaka’s famous savory pancake, okonomiyaki, at this local favorite spot open from 11:30 AM.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Explore one of Japan's oldest shrines with unique architecture and peaceful grounds.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Tennoji Park and Visit Tennoji Zoo

Enjoy the lush park and visit the zoo featuring a variety of animals in a central city location.
JPY500 for zoo, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Endo Sushi at Osaka Central Fish Market

Experience some of the freshest sushi in Osaka, highly praised by locals for quality and taste.
JPY3500, 1h
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Day 5: Leisure day & Departure to Kyoto

Osaka to Kyoto, Japan on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Nearby Bakery

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and pack for departure to Kyoto.
JPY1000, 1h

10:00am

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Visit one of the world's largest and most spectacular aquariums showcasing marine life from the Pacific Rim.
JPY2400, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Grab lunch at the marketplace nearby the aquarium, with a variety of food options including local specialties.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Travel from Osaka to Kyoto by train

Take a convenient 30-45 minute train ride from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station.
JPY560, 45m

4:00pm

Check-in and Rest at Kyoto Hotel

Settle into your accommodation and prepare for evening activities.
Included, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine in the historic Gion district, perfect for your first night in Kyoto.
JPY3500, 1.5h
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Day 6: Kyoto Temples and Bamboo Grove

Kyoto, Japan on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a classic Kyoto-style coffee and light breakfast at this historic café.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the iconic golden temple set amidst serene gardens, an essential Kyoto landmark open at 9:00 AM.
JPY400, 1h

10:30am

Visit Ryoan-ji Temple

View Japan's most famous rock garden, providing a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu in Tenryu-ji Temple

Enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal (shojin ryori) served in a tranquil temple setting.
JPY3000, 1.5h

2:00pm

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting bamboo forest and enjoy the natural beauty of this famous Kyoto site.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage temple and its beautiful gardens, located conveniently near the bamboo grove.
JPY500, 1h

5:00pm

Return to central Kyoto

Travel back to your hotel area and relax.
Train fare about JPY230, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in Kyoto’s atmospheric alleyway with numerous restaurants offering kaiseki and other Kyoto specialties.
JPY3500, 1.5h
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Day 7: Eastern Kyoto Heritage

Kyoto, Japan on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a stylish breakfast in this cozy café known for both coffee and atmosphere.
JPY1200, 1h

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the famous shrine with thousands of iconic red torii gates; arrive early to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples with beautiful gardens and autumn foliage views.
JPY400, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Inari Sushi Koji

Try local Kyoto-style inari sushi, a sweet and savory tofu pouch stuffed with rice, near Fushimi area.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Sanjusangen-do Temple

See the long hall featuring 1001 statues of Kannon, an impressive and unique cultural experience.
JPY600, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Famous for its wooden stage overlooking Kyoto and a beautiful setting, perfect for a late afternoon visit.
JPY400, 1.5h

6:00pm

Stroll through Higashiyama District

Wander through historic streets with traditional shops and teahouses before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Suetomo

Enjoy a refined kaiseki dinner offering seasonal and local ingredients in the historic Gion area.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 8: Philosopher’s Path & Museums

Kyoto, Japan on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Start your day with excellent espresso and a light breakfast near Kyoto Station.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Walk the Philosopher’s Path

Stroll along this scenic canal-side path lined with cherry trees, tranquil and peaceful in the morning.
Free, 1.5h

10:30am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Tour the elegant temple and its beautiful gardens at the Philosopher’s Path starting point.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Try traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) in a historic restaurant near Kiyomizu Temple, offering a peaceful dining experience.
JPY2500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kyoto National Museum

Explore Japanese art and cultural history in one of Kyoto’s major museums, open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
JPY1000, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Walk through the grand temple grounds and enjoy the impressive Sanmon gate and beautiful gardens nearby.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Menbakaichidai (Fire Ramen)

Watch the dramatic ‘fire ramen’ presentation and enjoy hearty spicy ramen in central Kyoto.
JPY1500, 1h
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Day 9: Day trip to Uji and Tea Experience

Kyoto/Uji, Japan on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kyoto Station Café

Grab a quick breakfast near the station before traveling to Uji.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Uji

Take a 20-minute train ride to Uji, famous for its tea culture.
JPY240, 30m

9:45am

Visit Byodo-in Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with its iconic Phoenix Hall and beautiful gardens.
JPY600, 1h

11:00am

Tea Tasting at a Local Uji Tea Shop

Experience traditional Japanese tea tasting, sampling high-quality matcha and other teas unique to Uji.
JPY1000, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Obubu Tea Farms Café

Enjoy light seasonal dishes and tea-infused sweets in a café run by a local tea farm.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Walk along Uji river and visit Ujigami Shrine

Stroll riverside paths and visit one of Japan’s oldest shrines for a peaceful afternoon.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Travel back to Kyoto and rest.
JPY240, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Try their famous burnt miso ramen, a unique and flavorful dish appreciated by locals and visitors alike.
JPY1500, 1h
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Day 10: Nijo Castle and Shopping

Kyoto, Japan on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Kyoto

Enjoy tea paired with light breakfast dishes in a sleek modern space inspired by traditional tea culture.
JPY1200, 1h

9:00am

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour the historic castle with beautiful gardens and striking wall paintings, open from 8:45 AM.
JPY1000, 2h

11:30am

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk the spacious park grounds surrounding the former Kyoto Imperial residence, offering a calm urban escape.
Free, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore the lively market with various stalls offering fresh seafood, sweets, and Kyoto specialties.
JPY2000, 1.5h

2:30pm

Shopping at Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades

Enjoy browsing shops offering souvenirs, fashion, and local crafts in these popular covered shopping streets.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Katsukura Sanjo

Taste excellent tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) prepared with high-quality ingredients in a friendly setting.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 11: Day of Zen & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Veg Out

Start with a healthy smoothie bowl or vegan-friendly breakfast in a stylish café near Kamogawa river.
JPY1200, 1h

9:00am

Visit Daitoku-ji Temple Complex

Explore several sub-temples known for their Zen gardens and historic cultural treasures.
JPY500 per temple (some free), 2h

11:30am

Visit Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Enjoy the peaceful green space with seasonal floral displays and a conservatory, open from 9:00 AM.
JPY200, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Cafe & Meal MUJI Kyoto

Relax with simple, wholesome Japanese and Western dishes using seasonal ingredients.
JPY1800, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Ryoan-ji (optional revisit or relax at hotel)

Optionally revisit or enjoy leisure time before dinner.
JPY500 if visiting, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hyotei

Experience elegant kaiseki cuisine at a centuries-old Kyoto ryotei (traditional restaurant), reservation recommended.
JPY12000, 2h
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Day 12: Transfer to Nara and Cultural Sites

Kyoto to Nara, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or nearby café

Have a relaxed breakfast prior to the transfer to Nara.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Travel from Kyoto to Nara

Take a train approximately 45 minutes from Kyoto to Nara, preparing to explore the ancient capital.
JPY710, 45m

10:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

See the Great Buddha and massive wooden temple structure, one of the most important cultural treasures in Japan.
JPY600, 1.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou

Try famous mochi sweets at this popular local shop and have quick bites nearby the temple.
JPY1000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Nara Park and Feed Deer

Stroll through Nara Park, famous for its freely roaming deer and scenic views surrounding old temples.
JPY200 for deer crackers, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site noted for its stone and bronze lanterns, a spiritual highlight of Nara.
JPY500, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Edogawa Naramachi

Enjoy traditional river fish cuisine in a cozy setting within historic Naramachi district.
JPY3000, 1.5h
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Day 13: Nara Temples and Museums

Nara, Japan on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kasuga Ninai Jyaya

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast near Kasuga Taisha Shrine in a quaint teahouse.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Shin-Yakushi-ji Temple

Explore this peaceful temple with impressive Buddhist statues and a serene atmosphere.
JPY400, 1h

11:00am

Visit Nara National Museum

View extensive collections of Buddhist art and artifacts, open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
JPY700, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Savor fresh tuna dishes including sashimi and donburi at this highly regarded local spot.
JPY2500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Gango-ji Temple

Discover one of Nara's oldest temples with historic architecture and tranquil gardens.
JPY400, 1h

4:30pm

Stroll Naramachi Historical District

Explore the preserved merchant district with traditional buildings, shops, and quaint cafés.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Mamma Mia

Enjoy a delectable Italian meal with a Japanese touch, offering a change of cuisine in Nara.
JPY3000, 1.5h
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Day 14: Departure & Last Exploration

Nara, Japan on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

A final light breakfast to start your day.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Mount Wakakusa

If time permits, hike up Mount Wakakusa for panoramic views of Nara city, a nice final nature experience.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kari Kari

Enjoy a modern café lunch with both Japanese and Western menu options near Nara station.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Prepare for Departure

Return to hotel for check out and travel to Kansai International Airport or next destination.
Transport cost varies, Variable
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