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.

Do your shopping at Dotombori and Nishiki Market Shopping District. Venture out of the city with trips to Koya-cho (Koyasan Okunoin & Mt. Koya), Kobe (Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown) & Kobe Harborland) and Kyoto (Gion, Pontocho, &more). Next up on the itinerary: get in on the family fun at Universal Studios Japan, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kasuga Grand Shrine, pause for some photo ops at Todai-ji Temple, and identify plant and animal life at Nara Park.

To see ratings, traveler tips, maps, and more tourist information, read our Osaka trip planner.

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, plan for daily highs up to 23°C, and evening lows to 12°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 29th (Sat) to allow time to travel back home.