13 days in Osaka Itinerary

Proud of their hometown's distinct culture and dialect, many natives of Osaka describe their city as "Japan's anti-capital." An antidote to Tokyo's hectic energy, Osaka marches to the beat of its own drum, serving as the country's longtime commercial and industrial hub.

Take a break from the city and head to Nara Park and Kamogawa River. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine and Dotombori District are good opportunities to explore the local culture. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Osaka: Nara (Kasuga Grand Shrine & Todai-ji Temple), Koya-cho (Mt. Koya & Koyasan Okunoin) and Kyoto (Nijo Castle, Shugakuin Imperial Villa, &more). There's much more to do: get in on the family fun at Universal Studios Japan, contemplate the long history of Osaka Castle, take in the awesome beauty at Mt. Maya, and stop by Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street.

To find photos, traveler tips, more things to do, and other tourist information, use the Osaka day trip planning tool.

If you are flying in from Singapore, the closest major aiports are Osaka International Airport, Kansai International Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport. In April in Osaka, expect temperatures between 23°C during the day and 12°C at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 29th (Sat) early enough to travel back home.