Day 1 – Arrival in Osaka and gourmet street food tour
Today you’ll arrive in Osaka, and check into your centrally located hotel. In the evening your local guide will take you to the heart of Osaka’s mesmerising food scene – Dotonburi. Located in the lively Namba district, this neon-lit street has pretty much every known type of Japanese street food. Your guide will tell you all about the endless options there are, and you’ll sample a few snacks and a drink under their watch before you’re left to eat your way through Osaka independently. The rest of the evening is free and you can make your way to the hotel whenever you wish.
Day 2 – Free time in Osaka
Today you’ll have plenty of time to see most of the city’s impressive sites. Head to the ancient Shitennouji Temple, spend some time in the Garden of Paradise, and visit the giant Abeno Harukas skyscraper. There is an excellent subway system here, making it easy to navigate your way around. You can then take it easy and find somewhere to enjoy a green tea.
In the evening, you’ll have some more free time to take in Osaka’s fast-paced nightlife, eat some more of the weird and wonderful food on offer, or even pitch up at a local karaoke bar – if you’ve had enough sake.
During your stay in Osaka, you could visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Himeji Castle. Often described as Japan’s most beautiful castle, you can reach it within an hour by train. Wander through the grand wooden halls, climb the narrow staircases and immerse yourself in the life of a samurai inside Japan’s most iconic castle. Next, head to Koko-en Garden, where you will find nine beautifully landscaped gardens. Wander along the stone pathways, past koi ponds, miniature waterfalls and bamboo groves, and then pause for a tea in the garden teahouse, soaking up the peaceful surroundings and gentle sounds of nature.
Day 3 – Departure
After a good night’s sleep, you’ll check out of your hotel, ready to continue your Japanese journey. If you haven’t already, head to Kyoto to see more of traditional Japan and explore ancient temples, beautifully kept gardens and cycle through the backstreets. For a true immersive experience in Japanese culture, head to Koyasan, where you can spend the night in a sacred temple and take part in a fire and prayer ceremony.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Dazzling Lights of Osaka - In Style accommodation
If you’re looking for a unique experience during your stay in Osaka, consider our In Style option. Our In Style option is a little more special and unique, but still full of local character! Your comfortable hotel is located in a calm and peaceful area of Osaka, yet it’s still very accessible. The city’s highlights are just a 15-minute drive from the hotel, and the metro station is only a simple 5-minute walk away. Feel like a refreshing swim? No problem—the hotel also features a pool! If you’re interested in upgrading to our In Style accommodation for this bite-sized trip, you can select this option below.
Osaka - decorative sushi workshop
During your time in Osaka, we can arrange for you to learn how to make decorative sushi, from panda bears to Hello Kitty cats. Together with your teacher, you’ll create the cutest sushi rolls, almost too good to eat, and learn tips and tricks to take home for your next Japanese-inspired meal.
Osaka - ramen and gyoza cooking class
If noodles are more your style, then we can arrange a ramen and gyoza cooking class while you’re in Osaka. In Japan, ordering a steaming ramen and gyoza(filled dumplings) combo at a local ramen shop is one of the most popular – and comforting meals on offer. During the cooking class, you will prepare these tasty delicacies under the guidance of a professional chef, learning all the important steps before sitting down to enjoy your delicious homemade meal.