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 Nunobiki Falls (Nunobiki-No-Taki). Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine and Osaka Castle are good opportunities to explore the local culture. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Osaka: Koya-cho (Mt. Koya & Koyasan Okunoin), Kyoto (Nijo Castle, Shugakuin Imperial Villa, &more) and Nara (Kasuga Grand Shrine & Todai-ji Temple). There's much more to do: wander the streets of Dotombori District, take in panoramic vistas at Tsutenkaku, make a trip to Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and admire nature's wide array of creatures at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

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.