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Japan Adventure: Ōsaka-jō, Kyoto, Tokyo

Shaun Ryley

Shaun Ryley

9 Jan 2024

Embark on a thrilling 9-day journey through the cultural wonders of Ōsaka-jō, Kyoto, and Tokyo. Immerse yourself in the vibrant city life, explore ancient castles, indulge in delicious cuisine, and experience the magic of theme parks. Join us as we uncover the best of Japan!

Day 1Underwater Wonders and Harbor Delights
+

$125

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the world's biggest aquariums, with exhibits ranging from Arctic to tropical marine life.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$125
4 - 6 min

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Directions

Tempozan Harbor Village
Harborside entertainment & shopping complex featuring an aquarium, a Ferris wheel & more.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Free
Day 2LEGO Fun and Majestic Castles
+

$200

·

$ 6

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka
This indoor Lego attraction for families features rides, a 4D cinema & multiple play zones.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$150
21 - 26 min

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Directions

Osaka Castle
Revered castle dating to 1597 & since rebuilt, featuring gardens & a museum with varied exhibits.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
$50
Day 3Thrills and Magic at Universal Studios Japan
+

$400

Universal Studios Japan
This sprawling theme park dedicated to popular American movies features rides & live entertainment.
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
$400

Budget breakdown: $1439 In total

Activities & Food:$1406
Transport:$33
Day 1Underwater Wonders and Harbor Delights
+

$40

Nijō Castle
Built in 1603, this cypress-wood castle with extensive gardens was a home for the shogun Ieyasu.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$40
Day 2LEGO Fun and Majestic Castles
+

$25

·

$ 8

Kinkaku-ji
Historic, tranquil temple with a gold-leaf facade set amid landscaped gardens & a reflecting pond.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
$25
16 - 20 min

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Directions

Kyoto Imperial Palace
Palace complex & former Imperial family residence reconstructed in 1855, with gardens & gates.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
Day 3Thrills and Magic at Universal Studios Japan
+

$50

·

$ 8

Kiyomizu-dera
Iconic Buddhist temple on Mount Otowa known for the scenic views afforded from its sizable veranda.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$50
15 - 18 min

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Directions

Fushimi Inari Taisha
Mountainside Shinto shrine dating from 711 A.D. featuring a path with hundreds of traditional gates.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free

Budget breakdown: $1439 In total

Activities & Food:$1406
Transport:$33
Day 1Underwater Wonders and Harbor Delights
+

$86

·

$ 12

Tokyo Skytree
World's tallest freestanding broadcasting tower with an observation deck boasting 360-degree views.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$76
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Sensō-ji
Completed in 645, this temple, Tokyo's oldest, was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
29 - 35 min

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Directions

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
This former estate is now a 144-acre park with diverse garden areas, grassy expanses & a greenhouse.
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
$10
Day 2LEGO Fun and Majestic Castles
+

$0

Meiji Jingu
Surrounded by forest, this venerable Shinto shrine features a seasonal iris garden.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
Day 3Thrills and Magic at Universal Studios Japan
+

$480

Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo offshoot of the iconic theme park known for its rides, live shows & costumed characters.
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
$240
25 - 38 min

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Directions

Tokyo DisneySea
Part of the Disney resort, this large park has 7 themed ports of call with rides, shows & dining.
2:30 PM - 8:30 PM
$240

Budget breakdown: $1439 In total

Activities & Food:$1406
Transport:$33