Ōsaka-jō Adventure

Jan Ong

22 Dec 2023

Embark on a thrilling 10-day journey through the vibrant city of Ōsaka-jō, immersing yourself in its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the majestic Osaka Castle to the bustling streets of Dotonbori, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience for solo travelers.

Trip to Ōsaka-jō

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Unveiling the Secrets of Osaka Castle Park

$50

$ 3

Vast green space offering gardens with cherry blossoms, athletic fields, open-air theaters & more.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$13

24 - 29 min

Directions

3-tiered observation areas on the 58th–60th floors, with an open-air atrium, enclosed glass & cafe.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$38

Day 2Panoramic Views from Kuchu Teien Observatory

$75

Contemporary indoor/outdoor observation deck with panoramic city views, an eatery, cafe & gift shop.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$38

1 - 2 min

Directions

Connected skyscrapers with a rooftop garden observatory, plus a restaurant & lounge with city views.

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

•

$38

Day 3Encountering Exotic Wildlife at NIFREL

$88

$ 3

Family-friendly attraction with exotic fish, mammals & reptiles exhibited in stylish, modern spaces.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$63

50 - 60 min

Directions

Revered castle dating to 1597 & since rebuilt, featuring gardens & a museum with varied exhibits.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$25

Day 4Shop 'til You Drop on Shinsaibashi-Suji

Bustling shopping district featuring a wide range of high-end tax-free shops with airport delivery.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

4 - 6 min

Directions

Lively entertainment district known for its soaring illuminated billboards, restaurants & theaters.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Day 5Savoring Fresh Delights at Kuromon Ichiba Market

$25

$ 3

Spacious market with vendors selling street food, fresh produce & shellfish, plus souvenirs.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

9 - 11 min

Directions

Mainstay in Tennōji Park housing 200-plus species in varied habitats, from savanna to rainforest.

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

•

$25

Day 6Delving into Osaka's Past at the Museum of History

$50

$ 6

Contemporary museum with exhibits detailing Osaka history from ancient times to the present day.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$25

13 - 16 min

Directions

10th-century Shinto shrine & site of one of Japan's biggest festivals, Tenjin Matsuri, held in July.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

18 - 22 min

Directions

This 112.5m Ferris wheel holds 480 passengers & offers panoramic views plus illumination shows.

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

•

$25

Day 7Diving into the Depths of Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

$63

One of the world's biggest aquariums, with exhibits ranging from Arctic to tropical marine life.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$63

Day 8Thrills and Magic at Universal Studios Japan

$200

This sprawling theme park dedicated to popular American movies features rides & live entertainment.

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

•

$200

Day 9Discovering Spiritual Wonders at Sumiyoshi Taisha

$13

$ 3

Shinto shrine with a peaceful garden, plus structures rebuilt repeatedly since the 3rd century.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

30 - 36 min

Directions

Restored Buddhist temple first built in 593 with a 5-story pagoda, statues & ponds with turtles.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$13

Day 10Artistic Marvels at Abeno Harukas and City Museum of Fine Arts

$75

Osaka's tallest building features an observation deck, a department store, an art museum & a hotel.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$50

7 - 10 min

Directions

Opened in 1936, this museum features a large collection of ancient & modern Chinese & Japanese art.

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

•

$25

Budget breakdown: $655 In total

Activities & Food:$638

Transport:$18