AsiaGuideItineraryJapanOsaka

3D2N Osaka Itinerary Your Family Will Enjoy

Osaka is a lively city in Japan full of kid-friendly activities and attractions that will keep both you and your little ones entertained. From thrilling theme parks to immersive museums and delicious food, Osaka has something for everyone.

Imagine exploring the historic Osaka Castle Park where your kids can learn about the city’s rich history or strolling through the colorful and bustling streets of Dotonbori where you can share a fun street food experience.

With so much to see and do, Osaka is the perfect destination for families with kids. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip with this 3D2N Osaka itinerary specially made for the fam!

 

Getting Around Osaka

via Gyro on Getty Images

One of the best ways to get around Osaka is by train. The city has an extensive subway system that covers most of the major tourist areas. The Midosuji Line running north-south connects major urban hubs in Osaka, while the Chuo Line runs east-west and links the Osaka Castle Area to the Osaka Bay Area.

If you’re exploring other parts of Kansai such as Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara, it’s a good idea to purchase Kansai Thru Pass for unlimited rides on subways, private railways (non-JR), and buses throughout the region. If you’re on long-distance excursions, the JR Pass is also a great option that gives you unlimited JR train rides.

 

If you’re taking different kinds of transport and not using unlimited rail passes — which is also practical depending on your itinerary — having the ICOCA Card saves you the hassle of buying tickets whenever you use trains and buses.

 

 

Osaka Day 1: Minami Area

Encompassing the famous Shinsaibashi and Namba districts, the Minami area is perfect for your first day in Osaka as it offers an energetic introduction to the city’s local lifestyle and dining options. Shinsaibashi is the city’s main shopping district, while Namba is known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment hubs. Minami is also home to Dotonbori, marked by bright neon lights and billboards and known for its exciting variety of restaurants and shops.

Namba Parks, National Bunraku Theater, Shinsaibashi-suji, Dotonbori via Unsplash & Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Morning: Kick off your Osaka adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant shopping scene of Shinsaibashi, where you’ll discover a treasure trove of shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the 600-meter-long shopping paradise Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street and the trendy Amerikamura.

Afternoon: For an interesting cultural experience, bring the kids to National Bunraku Theater which hosts traditional Bunraku puppet performances. Then, head to the Namba Parks shopping mall, which has a rooftop garden, an indoor amusement park, and various shops and restaurants.

Evening: Spend your evening exploring Dotonbori, where the neon lights create a mesmerizing atmosphere best experienced at night. Here, your dinner options are also endless — be sure to try local specialties takoyaki and okonomiyaki!

 

Osaka Day 2: Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Bay Area

It’s the perfect time to venture into Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Bay Area, with a wide array of thrilling activities and attractions that are sure to keep you and your kids energized. From exciting rides and shows based on kids’ favorite characters and stunning sightseeing spots, you’ll find no shortage of ways to spend your energy and make lasting memories!

Universal Studios Japan, Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, Solaniwa Onsen via Universal Studios Japan & KKday Suppliers

Morning: Start your day early at Universal Studios Japan and hop on exciting rides based on popular franchises such as Despicable Me, Jurassic Park, and Spider-Man. Then, immerse yourself in the gaming world at the newest SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™. Be sure to get refreshed with the famous butterbeer at Hog’s Head in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

 

Afternoon: Keep the energy going at the giant underwater world of Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan where the kids can see whale sharks and dolphins up close. Then, take in panoramic views of the city 112 meters off the ground from the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel!

 

Evening: Cap your day off at the top of Osaka Bay Tower, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in breathtaking views from 200 meters above the city. Get a relaxing soak at Solaniwa Onsen, with its variety of hot spring baths, saunas, and treatments, perfect after a fun-filled day at the amusement park!

 

Osaka Day 3: Umeda and Osaka Castle Area

The final day in your Osaka itinerary is best spent in the neighboring Umeda and Osaka Castle Area, offering a wonderful balance of activities for the whole family. From sightseeing and last-minute shopping to historical and cultural experiences — these places allow you to experience the best of both worlds and take a comprehensive last look at the city.

Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, Whity Umeda via Unsplash, Umeda Sky Building & Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Morning: Start the day exploring the iconic Osaka Castle, which houses seven floors of museum exhibits, including an observation deck where you can view the surrounding scenery through the eyes of the castle.

 

Afternoon: View Osaka from another famous viewpoint — the Umeda Sky Building where you capture 360-degree views from the spectacular Floating Garden Observatory featuring glass-walled escalators. Don’t forget to admire the striking exterior of the building from below, as it’s an architectural masterpiece in its own right.

 

Evening: If you still have time to spend before your flight home, end your day with a farewell dinner at one of the many gourmet spots underground and around the metro and JR stations. One such place is Whity Umeda, an underground shopping center offering various local and international specialties for dining.

 

 

Want more adventures to fill your Osaka itinerary? You can find more experiences and travel essentials on KKday!

 

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