Embark on a 5-day adventure in Osaka, a city that blends traditional charm with modern excitement. Begin your journey with a full day at Universal Studios Japan, where thrilling rides and shows await. Just a stone's throw away, marvel at the aquatic wonders in Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Day 2 takes you sky-high with panoramic views from the Umeda Sky Building, followed by a stroll through the bustling Umeda district and a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel. Day 3 is a cultural treat, starting with the stylish Mido-suji avenue, a visit to the informative Osaka Museum of History, and a relaxing hour at Osaka Castle Park. The following day, immerse yourself in the vibrant Shinsaibashisuji shopping district, the iconic Dotombori area, and the lively Kuromon Ichiba Market. Your final day is a blend of tranquility and discovery, with a visit to the serene Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine, the educational Osaka Museum of Natural History, and the enchanting teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka. This itinerary promises a comprehensive experience of Osaka's must-visit attractions and hidden gems.
5 Days in Osaka Itinerary: Day 1
Universal Studios Japan
Kickstart your Osaka journey with a magical day at Universal Studios Japan, where fantasy meets reality! As the first stop on our itinerary, this world-renowned theme park invites you to immerse yourself in a full day of excitement and entertainment. Located at 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Universal Studios Japan is a place where you can experience thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on your favorite movies and franchises. Get ready to create unforgettable memories as you explore each themed area, from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the heart-pounding roller coasters and delightful character encounters.
Attraction info
- 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031
- Suggested tour duration: 1 day
- Open from 04/27-05/02,8:00am-9:30pm;Open 9:00am-9:00pm on 05/13;Open from 04/08-04/12,9:00am-7:00pm;Open from 04/15-04/19,9:00am-7:00pm;Open from 04/22-04/26,9:00am-7:00pm;Open from 05/09-05/10,9:00am-7:00pm;Open 9:00am-7:00pm on 05/31;Open from 04/13-04/14,8:30am-9:30pm;Open from 04/20-04/21,8:30am-9:30pm;Open from 05/18-05/19,8:30am-9:30pm;Open from 05/25-05/26,8:30am-9:30pm;Open from 04/06-04/07,9:00am-8:30pm;Open from 05/14-05/17,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 05/20-05/24,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 05/27-05/30,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 03/20-04/05,8:00am-10:00pm;Open from 05/03-05/06,8:00am-10:00pm;Open from 05/07-05/08,9:30am-7:00pm;Open 8:00am-7:00pm on 05/11;Open 8:00am-9:00pm on 05/12
Recommended nearby restaurants
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
After an exhilarating day at Universal Studios Japan, unwind with the mesmerizing marine life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. This spectacular aquarium, nestled at 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, is one of the largest public aquariums in the world and offers a serene escape to nature's underwater beauty. Spend an hour marveling at the diverse aquatic animals, from the majestic whale sharks to the delicate jellyfish, as you journey through the Pacific Rim in a series of engaging and educational exhibits. It's the perfect way to conclude your first day in Osaka with a tranquil and inspiring experience.
Attraction info
- 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka City, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
- Open from 03/21-03/22,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 03/23-03/29,9:00am-8:00pm;Open 8:30am-8:00pm on 03/20;Open from 03/30-03/31,8:30am-8:00pm;Open from 04/01-04/07,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 04/08-04/12,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 04/13-04/14,9:30am-8:00pm;Open from 04/15-04/19,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 04/20-04/21,9:30am-8:00pm;Open from 04/22-04/26,10:30am-8:00pm;Open from 04/27-04/29,9:30am-8:00pm;Open 10:30am-8:00pm on 04/30
Recommended nearby restaurants
5 Days in Osaka Itinerary: Day 2
Umeda Sky Building
Kickstart your second day in Osaka with a visit to the architectural marvel, Umeda Sky Building. With its futuristic design and an awe-inspiring observation deck, this is the perfect place to get a panoramic view of the city as it wakes. Spend an hour here, soaking in the sights from the Floating Garden Observatory, and let the skyline set the tone for the rest of your day's adventures.
Attraction info
- 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
- Open from 9:30am-10:30pm
Recommended nearby restaurants
Umeda
After descending from the heights of Umeda Sky Building, immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Umeda itself. This characteristic neighborhood is a microcosm of Osaka's urban charm, offering a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Dedicate a couple of hours to explore its vibrant streets, discover local eateries, and perhaps snag a few souvenirs.
Attraction info
- Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka
- Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
Hep Five Ferris wheel
Conclude your day's exploration with a whimsical ride on the Hep Five Ferris Wheel. Nestled within the heart of Umeda, this iconic red wheel offers a unique vantage point to view the city's tapestry. A 15-minute rotation is all it takes to create lasting memories and capture breathtaking photos, making it a fitting finale to your day in Umeda.
Attraction info
- Japan, 〒530-0017 Osaka, Kita Ward, Kakudacho, 5−15 HEP FIVE 7F
- Suggested tour duration: 15-30 minutes
- Open from 11:00am-11:00pm
5 Days in Osaka Itinerary: Day 3
Mido-suji
Kickstart your third day in Osaka with a stroll down the iconic Mido-suji Boulevard, a characteristic neighborhood that's a feast for the senses. As you meander through Chuo-ku, from Kita-ku to Chuo-ku along Shinsaibashisuji, you'll be enveloped by the bustling energy of Osaka's main thoroughfare. Set aside around 3 hours to soak in the ambiance of this vibrant street, famed for its grandeur, lined with ginkgo trees, luxury boutiques, and striking architecture that harmoniously blends modernity with tradition.
Attraction info
- Chuo-ku | Kita-ku to Chuo-ku, Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo, Osaka 542-0081, Osaka Prefecture
- Suggested tour duration: 3 hour
- Open 24 hours
Recommended nearby restaurants
Osaka Museum of History
After immersing yourself in the lively street scene, step into the realm of history at the Osaka Museum of History. Located just a short distance from Mido-suji, allocate about 2 hours to explore the museum's captivating exhibits. Housed in a striking building, the museum offers a journey through Osaka's past, from ancient times to the present day. Each floor presents a different era, with detailed dioramas and interactive displays that bring the rich tapestry of the city's heritage to life.
Attraction info
- 4-chōme-1-32 Ōtemae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0008, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
- Open on Mon, Wed-Sun,9:30am-5:00pm
Osaka Castle Park
Conclude your day's exploration at the tranquil Osaka Castle Park, a serene city park that's a stone's throw away from the museum. Plan to spend an hour in this verdant oasis, where history and nature coexist. The park, surrounding the majestic Osaka Castle, provides a picturesque setting with sweeping moats, ornamental gardens, and historical monuments. It's the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures, as the sun sets over the castle's imposing walls.
Attraction info
- 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
- Open 24 hours
5 Days in Osaka Itinerary: Day 4
Shinsaibashisuji
Begin your fourth day with a stroll through the bustling lanes of Shinsaibashisuji, a characteristic neighborhood that captures the essence of Osaka's urban charm. Spend a couple of hours exploring this shopping paradise, where modernity meets tradition. With an array of shops and eateries lining the street, you'll find everything from the latest fashion to local souvenirs. The vibrant atmosphere is a feast for the senses, making it the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local culture and indulge in some retail therapy.
Attraction info
- 2-2-22 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
Recommended nearby restaurants
Dotombori
Next, let the energy of Osaka lead you to the iconic Dotombori, just a stone's throw from Shinsaibashisuji. This characteristic neighborhood is the heart of Osaka's entertainment district, where dazzling neon lights and the famous Glico Man sign await. Spend an hour here and be sure to capture the essence of this lively area. With its plethora of street food options, Dotombori is also an ideal place to savor Osaka's culinary delights, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Attraction info
- 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
- Open 24 hours
Kuromon Ichiba Market
Conclude your day's adventure at Kuromon Ichiba Market, a destination that's a feast for both the eyes and the palate. As a hub of characteristic neighborhoods and markets, this spot offers an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of Osakans. Allocate a couple of hours to meander through the market's alleys, sampling fresh seafood, picking out unique ingredients, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere that makes this market a beloved institution in Osaka.
Attraction info
- 2 Chome-21 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
- Open 24 hours
Where to Stay Tonight
5 Days in Osaka Itinerary: Day 5
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Begin your final day in Osaka with a tranquil visit to Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines. Nestled in the heart of the city, this spiritual oasis offers a serene escape with its unique straight roof design, a distinctive style known as Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which predates Buddhist influence. Spend an hour wandering through the peaceful grounds, admiring the vermilion-lacquered bridges and the harmonious blend of nature and spirituality that has been attracting pilgrims for centuries.
Attraction info
- 2-chōme-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
- Open from 6:30am-5:00pm
Recommended nearby restaurants
Osaka Museum of Natural History
After replenishing your soul at Sumiyoshi Taisha, engage your curiosity at the Osaka Museum of Natural History. Located just a short journey away, this museum invites you to delve into the wonders of our natural world for a couple of hours. Explore exhibits ranging from the prehistoric to the present, showcasing Osaka's rich biodiversity and technological advancements. The museum's interactive displays and educational resources make it an enlightening experience for visitors of all ages.
Attraction info
- 1-23 Nagaikōen, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 546-0034, Japan
- Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
- Open on Tue-Sun,9:30am-5:00pm
teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
Conclude your Osaka adventure on a futuristic note at teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka. This immersive digital art installation transforms the natural beauty of the botanical garden into a living canvas of light and sound. As you stroll through the interactive exhibits, you'll witness a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology and lush flora, creating an enchanting environment that captivates the senses and marks the perfect end to your five-day journey.
Attraction info
- 1-23 Nagai Koen, Higashisumiyoshi-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 546-0034
- Open from 03/11-03/31,6:45pm-9:30pm;Open from 04/01-04/21,7:00pm-9:30pm;Open from 04/22-05/07,7:15pm-9:30pm;Open from 05/08-05/31,7:30pm-9:30pm;Open from 06/01-07/31,7:45pm-9:30pm;Open from 08/01-08/16,7:30pm-9:30pm;Open from 08/17-08/31,7:15pm-9:30pm;Open from 09/01-09/13,7:00pm-9:30pm;Open from 09/14-10/31,6:30pm-9:30pm;Open from 11/01-12/31,6:00pm-9:30pm
Where to Stay Tonight
Top Things to Do in Osaka-2025
Based on 11,295 review- There are thrilling rides themed around Hollywood's superstar movies, fantastic performances by popular cartoon characters, and more, so everyone can have fun!
- Featuring the world's first Nintendo theme park, experience the world of Super Mario in an immersive way!
- Festive limited parades and float tours! Everyone is a protagonist and enthusiastic parade where everyone burns with passion and vigor!
Universal Studios Japan (“USJ”) in Osaka is one of the world's five Universal Studios theme parks, which opened for business in 2001 and is a classic and wonderful world of fun in the hearts of many visitors. It is similar in design to Universal Studios Orlando in the U.S., with popular parks such as Jurassic Park, Hollywood, and Waterworld, and more than 60 fun-filled attractions. With these attractions, you can enjoy a day of fun and entertainment at Universal Studios Japan.
Universal Studios Japan is also home to popular themed IP parks such as “Super Nintendo World (Mario/Super Mario)”, “Minion Park” and “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter”. Whether it's interacting with the minions, riding on Mario Kart, or traveling through the Wizarding World of Hogwarts, it's an unforgettable experience that is full of excitement.
△“Super Nintendo World” is the world's first Nintendo theme park built by Nintendo in cooperation with Universal Studios Japan. With the globally popular Super Mario as the protagonist, the game's Kuba Castle, Princess Brigitte's Castle, and the Mushroom Kingdom are reproduced 1:1 in a super-realistic way, providing immersive experiences of the world of Super Mario!
△The “Freeze Ray Sliders” and “Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem” will get you involved in a huge farce and heat wave with the minions! The Minions have finally fulfilled their ambitions! All of humanity will be a part of the mayhem at the Minion Park!
△Embracing a variety of areas with unique characteristics, wonderment and surprise, Universal Studios Japan covers a whole spectrum of world-class entertainment through thrilling rides and shows themed on blockbuster Hollywood movies, as well as seasonal events for all ages to enjoy.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ will reproduce the world from the Harry Potter™ stories, bringing it to life on a phenomenal scale at Universal Studios Japan.
Based on 6,817 review• Encounter approximately 620 species of living creatures
• The world’s largest aquarium
• You can come into contact with a variety of animals
Kaiyukan is an aquarium that faithfully reproduces the natural environment of the Pacific Ocean and its surrounding waters. Each region of the Ring of Fire that surrounds the Pacific Ocean has been selected and reproduced in a large tank. Each tank in the aquarium is positioned to correspond to an actual geographical location in the Pacific Ocean. Approximately 30,000 creatures of 620 species are kept and exhibited in various tanks, including the "Pacific Ocean" tank in the center of the building where whale sharks swim leisurely, the "Japanese Forest" tank with a waterfall and lush vegetation, and the "Tasman Sea" tank where white-sided dolphins live. The "Jellyfish Galaxy" tank, which explores the charm of jellyfish, and the "Arctic Circle" tank, where ringed seals and other creatures live, are also popular.
△ [Aqua Gate] A world of blue spreads out before you, like a transparent undersea tunnel.
△ [Tasman Sea] In this tank, Pacific white-sided dolphins swim dynamically.
△ [Pacific Ocean] This tank is home to many creatures, including majestically swimming whale sharks, gracefully flapping manta rays, and schools of starlings.
Standing at the heart of Osaka Castle, the Osaka Castle Museum is the central structure of the castle, originally built in 1583, earning it the nickname "Hideyoshi's Castle." The current Osaka Castle Museum, reconstructed in 1931, is a concrete building that now serves as a museum dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of Osaka Castle. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Osaka from the top floor. Perched on a high platform, the museum features white walls adorned with green roof tiles, and each upturned eave is decorated with gold-leaf sculptures of tigers and golden shachihoko (mythical creatures with tiger heads and fish bodies), creating a dazzling sight. The castle is especially beautiful during spring and autumn when cherry blossoms bloom or maple leaves turn red. **Floor Guide** Upon entering the Osaka Castle Museum, the 1st floor houses a small theater screening five programs about Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Osaka Castle, complete with Chinese subtitles—take a moment to enjoy them. The 2nd floor introduces the basics of Osaka Castle and Japanese castles, along with hands-on experiences like trying on helmets, battle surcoats, and kimonos for photo opportunities (¥300 per session). Restrooms are also located on this floor. The 3rd and 4th floors display important historical artifacts from Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the Warring States period, with exhibits rotating every two months. Visitors can also see scale models of Osaka Castle from different eras, offering a clear understanding of its layout and evolution. Note that photography is prohibited on these floors. The 5th floor features folding-screen paintings and dioramas depicting the "Summer Siege of Osaka," vividly portraying the intensity of the battles. A wide-screen display further explains the scenes illustrated in the paintings. The 6th floor is a corridor closed to visitors. On the 7th floor, "The Taikoki in Diorama" presents 19 scenes from Toyotomi Hideyoshi's life through high-tech projections, bringing his story to life. Finally, the 8th-floor observation deck offers breathtaking views from 50 meters above ground, showcasing the majestic Osaka Castle, the city skyline, modern high-rises, the Osaka Plain, and distant mountain ranges.
Based on 7,036 review
Based on 1,879 review* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.
* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.