2-Day Relaxing Sightseeing Journey for Couples in Osaka, Japan

Osaka, Japan

2 days

Dotonbori canal
Tsutenkaku tower at the end of busy shopping street
Takoyaki snack grill
Neon sign of the Namba entertainment area
Osaka skyline featuring city castle

About Osaka, Japan

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Osaka, Japan's third-largest city. Known for its modern architecture, nightlife, and hearty street food, Osaka is a bustling metropolis with a friendly, down-to-earth charm. Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, explore the futuristic Umeda Sky Building, or immerse yourself in the underwater world at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Foodies will love Dotonbori, a street filled with local eateries serving Osaka's famous takoyaki and okonomiyaki. For shopping enthusiasts, Shinsaibashi offers a plethora of shops and boutiques. Don't miss Universal Studios Japan for a day of fun and entertainment. With its mix of traditional and contemporary attractions, Osaka provides a unique Japanese travel experience.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Osaka's History and Marine Life

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the serene Osaka Castle Park. Enjoy the beautiful views of the castle, the surrounding gardens, and the cityscape.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in a local restaurant. Try Osaka's famous dish, Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with various ingredients.

Afternoon

Visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest public aquariums in the world. Marvel at the diverse marine life and learn about the importance of marine conservation.

Dinner

Have dinner in a cozy restaurant in the Umeda district. Sample the local delicacy, Takoyaki, a ball-shaped snack made of wheat flour batter and filled with minced octopus.

Evening

End your day with a romantic river cruise on the Dotonbori River. Enjoy the stunning night view of the city's skyline.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Universal Studios Japan. Experience thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on your favorite films and TV shows.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant in the Universal CityWalk Osaka. Try the local sushi or ramen for a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade, a premier shopping center in Osaka. Browse through a variety of shops selling everything from high-end fashion to traditional Japanese goods.

Dinner

Dine in a restaurant in the Namba district. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner, complete with Sake or Japanese beer.

Evening

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Umeda Sky Building. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka from the observatory deck.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Osaka Castle Park

1
Osaka Castle Park

A public urban park and historical site situated at Osaka-Jō in Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan. It lies on the south of the Ōkawa and occupies a large area in the center of the city of Osaka.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

2
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest public aquariums in the world, featuring a variety of marine life from the Pacific Rim.

Attractions
Museums
Universal Studios Japan

3
Universal Studios Japan

A popular theme park featuring rides and shows based on famous Hollywood movies.

Attractions
Entertainment
Tours
Umeda Sky Building

4
Umeda Sky Building

The Umeda Sky Building is a spectacular high rise building in the Kita district of Osaka, near Osaka and Umeda Stations. It's well-known for its rooftop observatory which offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city.

Attractions
Architecture
Landmarks
Dotonbori River Cruise

5
Dotonbori River Cruise

A popular and vibrant entertainment district known for its gaudy neon lights and the Dotonbori Canal. The river cruise offers a unique perspective of the city's nightlife and is a must-see for any visitor to Osaka.

Tours
Attractions
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Takoyaki

Takoyaki

A popular street food in Osaka, Takoyaki are ball-shaped snacks made of a wheat flour-based batter and cooked in a special molded pan. They are typically filled with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients in a wheat-flour-based batter. It is an iconic dish of Osaka and is often compared to an omelette or a pizza.

Kushikatsu

Kushikatsu

Kushikatsu, also known as kushiage, is a Japanese dish of skewered, breaded and deep-fried meat, seafood, and vegetables. It's a specialty of the Shinsekai district of Osaka.

Negiyaki

Negiyaki

Negiyaki is a type of Japanese pancake similar to okonomiyaki, but with a focus on green onions (negi). It's a popular dish in Osaka.

Yakiniku

Yakiniku

Yakiniku is a style of barbecue that although is widely available throughout Japan, has a unique style and flavor in Osaka. It involves grilling bite-sized pieces of meat (usually beef) and vegetables over a flame of wood charcoals.

Kitsune Udon

Kitsune Udon

Kitsune Udon is a noodle soup dish, popular in Osaka, featuring thick udon noodles and topped with aburaage (sweetened deep-fried tofu pockets), which are said to be the favorite food of kitsune (foxes) in Japanese folklore.

Doteyaki

Doteyaki

Doteyaki is a traditional dish of Osaka, made by simmering beef sinew in miso and mirin until it becomes tender. It's a popular choice at izakaya (Japanese pubs).

Osaka Sushi

Osaka Sushi

Osaka-style sushi tends to be more innovative and unique compared to the traditional Tokyo-style sushi. It often features preserved or marinated fish instead of fresh raw fish.

Ramen

Ramen

While ramen is a popular dish all over Japan, Osaka has its own unique style. The broth tends to be lighter and soy-based, and it's often served with thick, chewy noodles.

Sake

Sake

Sake is a Japanese rice wine that is brewed using a unique method. Osaka, with its high-quality water sources, is known for producing some of the best sake in Japan.

Matcha Tea

Matcha Tea

Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that is highly appreciated throughout Japan. In Osaka, you can enjoy it in traditional tea ceremonies or as a casual drink.

Amazake

Amazake

Amazake is a traditional sweet, low-alcohol Japanese drink made from fermented rice. It's often enjoyed during the New Year's holidays and is a popular drink in Osaka.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Osaka, Japan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant. Spring is particularly popular due to the beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom across the city. Autumn also offers stunning scenery with vibrant fall foliage. These seasons also have less rainfall compared to the summer months. However, it's worth noting that these are also peak tourist seasons, so popular attractions may be crowded.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 8

Mon

Coming of Age Day

February 11

Sun

National Foundation Day

February 12

Mon

National Foundation Day observed

February 23

Fri

Emperor's Birthday

March 20

Wed

Spring Equinox

April 29

Mon

Shōwa Day

May 3

Fri

Constitution Memorial Day

May 4

Sat

Greenery Day

May 5

Sun

Children's Day

May 6

Mon

Children's Day observed

July 15

Mon

Sea Day

August 11

Sun

Mountain Day

August 12

Mon

Day off for Mountain Day

September 16

Mon

Respect for the Aged Day

September 22

Sun

Autumn Equinox

September 23

Mon

Autumn Equinox observed

October 14

Mon

Sports Day

November 3

Sun

Culture Day

November 4

Mon

Culture Day observed

November 23

Sat

Labor Thanksgiving Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Osaka's extensive subway system, the Osaka Metro, is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. It connects all major areas and attractions. Tickets can be purchased at machines in the stations.

The JR (Japan Railways) trains are another popular mode of transport. The JR Osaka Loop Line circles the city and stops at many popular tourist destinations. If you have a JR Pass, you can use it on these trains.

While not as fast as the metro or trains due to traffic, buses in Osaka can reach areas that the trains do not. They are also a good option for short distances.

Osaka is a bike-friendly city with many rental shops. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace and get some exercise at the same time.

Taxis are plentiful in Osaka and can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. They're a convenient but more expensive option, especially for longer distances.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Osaka, but they are not as popular or widespread as in some other countries. They can be a good option if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Osaka is a port city, and there are several ferry routes that can take you to nearby islands or across the bay. It's a scenic way to travel, especially on a nice day.

Many of Osaka's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in areas like Dotonbori and Namba. Walking is a great way to see the city and soak up the atmosphere.

Renting a car in Osaka can be useful if you plan to visit outlying areas or other cities, but it's not recommended for getting around the city itself due to traffic and parking costs.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency¥ JPY

Time zoneUTC+9

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage100 V

Things to know about Osaka, Japan as a first time visitor

1

Osaka is Japan's third-largest city, known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and hearty street food.

2

The local dialect spoken in Osaka is called 'Osaka-ben'. It's different from standard Japanese, but most locals are bilingual in both dialects.

3

Osaka is famous for its food. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

4

Osaka has a humid subtropical climate. Summers (June - August) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F - 91°F (25°C - 33°C), while winters (December - February) are cold with temperatures ranging from 32°F - 54°F (0°C - 12°C).

5

The city is well-connected by a comprehensive public transportation system. The Osaka Metro and JR Osaka Loop Line are the most convenient for tourists.

6

Taxis are widely available but can be expensive. It's recommended to use public transportation or rent a bicycle for short distances.

7

Credit cards are widely accepted in Osaka, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash as smaller establishments may not accept cards.

8

Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can sometimes be considered rude or confusing.

9

Osaka is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas.

10

Most people in Osaka do not speak fluent English, but many can understand basic English. It might be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Japanese.

11

The voltage in Japan is 100 Volt, which is different from North America (120V), Central Europe (230V) and most other regions of the world. Make sure your devices are compatible or bring a voltage converter.

12

Smoking is not allowed on the streets in most areas in Osaka. Look for designated smoking areas instead.

13

The tap water in Osaka is safe to drink and of high quality.

14

Osaka has a high standard of cleanliness. Always look for a trash can to dispose of your waste. If you can't find one, it's customary to carry your trash with you until you can dispose of it properly.

15

Public Wi-Fi is not as common in Osaka as in some other major cities. Consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi or purchasing a local SIM card for internet access.

16

Convenience stores in Osaka are truly convenient. They offer a wide range of services from food and drinks to ATMs and postal services.

17

If you're planning to travel around Japan, consider getting a Japan Rail Pass. It can save you a significant amount of money on train travel.

18

In Osaka, it's customary to stand on the right side of escalators to let people pass on the left.

19

Many shops in Osaka open late in the morning around 10 or 11 am and stay open until 8 or 9 pm.

20

Osaka is a city that comes alive at night. Don't miss out on exploring the city's vibrant nightlife, especially in areas like Dotonbori and Shinsekai.

Basic Japanese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

こんにちは

Konnichiwa

Greeting someone

Goodbye

さようなら

Sayonara

Leaving or parting ways

Thank you

ありがとう

Arigatou

Expressing gratitude

Please

お願いします

Onegaishimasu

Making a request

Excuse me

すみません

Sumimasen

Getting attention or apologizing

Yes

はい

Hai

Affirming or agreeing

No

いいえ

Iie

Disagreeing or denying

I don't understand

わかりません

Wakarimasen

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

英語を話せますか?

Eigo o hanasemasu ka?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I'm sorry

ごめんなさい

Gomen nasai

Apologizing

Bathroom

トイレ

Toire

Looking for a bathroom

Help

助けて

Tasukete

In an emergency

Food

食べ物

Tabemono

Talking about food

Water

Mizu

Asking for water

Check, please

お会計お願いします

Okaikei onegaishimasu

Requesting the bill at a restaurant

How much?

いくらですか

Ikura desu ka

Asking the price of something

Where is...?

...はどこですか

... wa doko desu ka

Asking for directions

Train station

Eki

Looking for a train station

Good morning

おはようございます

Ohayou gozaimasu

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

おやすみなさい

Oyasuminasai

Saying goodnight or going to bed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (2-3 pairs)

  • Socks (2-3 pairs)

  • T-shirts (2-3)

  • Pants/Shorts (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Pajamas

  • Raincoat or umbrella (depending on the season)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Facial cleanser and moisturizer

  • Sunscreen

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Prescription medications (if any)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa (if required)

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Japanese Yen)

  • Driver's license (for car rentals)

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Camera (if not using smartphone for photos)

  • Charger for camera

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Osaka

  • Map of Osaka

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and eye mask

  • Japanese phrasebook or language app

  • Luggage locks

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent packets

Weather Conditions

Osaka, Japan experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, which can greatly impact your travel plans. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Osaka, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). You'll witness cherry blossoms in full bloom, but it's also a popular time for tourists, so expect crowds. Pack a light jacket for the cooler evenings. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). It's also the rainy season, especially in June and July, so pack an umbrella or raincoat. Despite the weather, summer is a great time to experience traditional Japanese festivals. Autumn (September to November) offers mild temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C and 27°C), making it an ideal time for sightseeing. The fall foliage is also a beautiful sight. Light clothing with a few warmer layers for the cooler evenings is recommended. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C). Snow is rare but possible. If you're visiting during this time, pack warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for the weather. Remember, Osaka's weather can be unpredictable, so packing a variety of clothing options is always a good idea. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

11° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Osaka, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds.

February

12° / 2°

February is still quite cold, with occasional snowfall. The plum blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month, making it a beautiful time to visit.

March

15° / 5°

March sees the arrival of spring, with temperatures gradually warming up. Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month, making it a popular time for tourists.

April

20° / 10°

April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures and cherry blossoms in full bloom. It's a great time to visit parks and enjoy outdoor activities.

May

25° / 15°

May is warm and comfortable, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

June

30° / 20°

June marks the start of the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent showers. Despite the rain, it's a great time to visit indoor attractions like museums and shopping centers.

July

35° / 25°

July is hot and humid, with occasional typhoons. It's a great time to visit the beach or enjoy indoor activities.

August

36° / 26°

August is the hottest month, with high humidity and occasional typhoons. Despite the heat, it's a great time to visit the beach or enjoy indoor activities.

September

32° / 22°

September marks the end of the hot summer, with temperatures gradually cooling down. It's a great time to visit as the autumn foliage starts to appear.

October

25° / 15°

October is a pleasant month with mild temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

November

20° / 10°

November is cool and comfortable, with beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

December

15° / 5°

December is cool and comfortable, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Did you know?

Did you know that Osaka is the third largest city in Japan by population, after Tokyo and Yokohama?

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