Osaka Trip Planning & Itineraries

Osaka Walking Tours

See all the highlights of Osaka from the ground up by taking a full-day walking tour. You'll visit historic Osaka Castle, built in 1583, and catch panoramic views of Osaka from the 40th floor Aerial Garden Observatory. Lunch and an hour-long scenic cruise along the Osaka River are also included in the tour. If you're pushed for time, take the shorter afternoon walking tour, which also includes a 60-minute river cruise. To relax and contemplate all you've seen, chill out on a Zen meditation tour to Enryakuji Temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples, on top of Mt Hiei.

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Day Trips from Osaka

Some of Japan's most historic cities are an easy day trip from Osaka. Spend the day in Kyoto visiting all the highlights, including Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion, Imperial Palace, Sanjusangendo Hall and the Kiyomizu Temple. To suit your schedule, take a shorter morning or afternoon tour of Kyoto. Or visit both Kyoto and Nara on a full-day tour. Historic Nara is famous for its Todaiji Temple and Deer Park.

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Hotel Granvia Osaka

The Granvia is a bustling operation in every respect. The name of the hotel means "by the station," but in Osaka they've gone one better: it's on top of the station! Rooms are well designed and relatively spacious, and the busy lobby is well attended by English-speaking staff who are engaging and efficient in true Osaka style.

Hotel Hankyu International

Vaulted ceilings, tapestries and plush sofas are the grand introduction to the Hotel Hankyu International. Setting standards of European and Japanese luxury, this is the place to be pampered with sophistication, away from the bustle of downtown Osaka. Enjoy the beautiful night view of Osaka from your hinoki (cypress) wood tub and play a game of shogi (Japanese chess) before you retire.

Kaneyosi Ryokan

For comfortable, traditional Japanese accommodation in downtown Osaka, this small mom-and-pop operation recalls a bygone era. It's one of the few reasonably priced ryokan in Minami, and nearby Soemoncho is bursting at the seams with restaurants and bars to accommodate adventurous diners.

Monsoon Café

For a fun night out dining on good pan-Asian, market-style cuisine in a casual international atmosphere, try the Osaka branch of this nationwide chain. It's in the Urban Terrace Building, across from the Hotel Hankyu International.

Mimiu

Slurp up a bowl of Osaka's famous udon noodles, tempura, and seasonal fish and vegetables at one of the city's most famous traditional restaurants. Prices are reasonable, and the lovely Japanese garden creates a relaxing vibe.

Modo di Ponte Vecchio

Italy's sleek, clean lines and delicious cuisine come together at modernist Modo di Ponte Vecchio. With its intimate lighting and table settings, English menu and modern takes on Italian classics, no wonder it's a favorite spot for romantic dining in Osaka.