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🌸 Journey through Ōsaka-jō, Kobe, Kyoto 🏯

Sean Studies

Sean Studies

16 Jan 2024

Embark on a 9-day adventure through the vibrant cities of Ōsaka-jō, Kobe, and Kyoto in Japan. Discover ancient castles, breathtaking waterfalls, bustling markets, and enchanting shrines. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, indulge in delicious cuisine, and create unforgettable memories.

Day 1Sky-high Marvels and Majestic Castle
+

$63

·

$ 3

Umeda Sky Building
Connected skyscrapers with a rooftop garden observatory, plus a restaurant & lounge with city views.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$38
16 - 20 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
$25
Day 2Aquatic Wonders and Historic Landmarks
+

$75

·

$ 3

Osaka Castle Park
Vast green space offering gardens with cherry blossoms, athletic fields, open-air theaters & more.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$13
32 - 39 min

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Directions

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the world's biggest aquariums, with exhibits ranging from Arctic to tropical marine life.
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
$63
Day 3Unleash Your Inner Child at Universal Studios
+

$200

Universal Studios Japan
This sprawling theme park dedicated to popular American movies features rides & live entertainment.
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
$200

Budget breakdown: $511 In total

Activities & Food:$483
Transport:$29
Day 1Sky-high Marvels and Majestic Castle
+

$25

·

$ 4

Nunobiki Waterfall
Mountain falls accessed via hiking trail, with panoramic skyline & harbor views from nearby ridges.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
12 - 15 min

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Directions

Kobe Ōji Zoo
Time-tested zoo featuring unique animals & a small amusement park with rides for children.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
$25
Day 2Aquatic Wonders and Historic Landmarks
+

$13

·

$ 4

Kobe Chinatown Nankin-machi
Established in 1868, this Chinese cultural district offers eateries, souvenir shops & mahjong clubs.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
$13
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Kobe Harborland
Waterside commercial & entertainment area in an old train station with shopping, hotels & dining.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
Day 3Unleash Your Inner Child at Universal Studios
+

$50

·

$ 4

Kobe Port Tower
Decorative tower reaching 108m & featuring an observation deck with panoramic city views.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$13
20 - 24 min

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Directions

神戸どうぶつ王国(Kobe Animal Kingdom)
Greenhouse-based park featuring tropical plants, birds & small mammals, plus interactive shows.
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
$38

Budget breakdown: $511 In total

Activities & Food:$483
Transport:$29
Day 1Sky-high Marvels and Majestic Castle
+

$25

·

$ 4

Kiyomizu-dera
Iconic Buddhist temple on Mount Otowa known for the scenic views afforded from its sizable veranda.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$25
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Kyoto Gion YASAKA SHRINE
This Shinto shrine was erected in 656 A.D. & is home to one of the most famous festivals in Japan.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
Day 2Aquatic Wonders and Historic Landmarks
+

$33

·

$ 4

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
$20
17 - 21 min

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Directions

Kinkaku-ji
Historic, tranquil temple with a gold-leaf facade set amid landscaped gardens & a reflecting pond.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
$13
Day 3Unleash Your Inner Child at Universal Studios
+

$0

·

$ 4

Fushimi Inari Taisha
Mountainside Shinto shrine dating from 711 A.D. featuring a path with hundreds of traditional gates.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
20 - 24 min

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Directions

Nishiki Market
400-year-old iconic market studded with stalls offering all manner of Japanese edibles.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free

Budget breakdown: $511 In total

Activities & Food:$483
Transport:$29