7-Day Kansai Japan Itinerary: Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe
Day 1: Arrival in Osaka
Upon arrival, take the Nankai Electric Railway to Osaka-Namba Station (大阪難波駅). From there, transfer to Shinsaibashi (心斎橋筋), Osaka's extensive commercial district, perfect for shopping and dining on your first day.
Dining Recommendations:
- Kani Doraku (かに道楽): Famous for its crab dishes.
- Hozenji Yokocho (法善寺横丁): Offers traditional eateries and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
- Dotonbori: A vibrant area known for street food.
Day 2: Exploring Osaka
Start your day at Osaka Castle Park (大阪城公園) to see ancient Japanese architecture and beautiful gardens. Visit Tsutenkaku Tower (通天閣) for panoramic city views and enjoy the lively dining and entertainment scene below. End the day at Umeda Sky Building (梅田スカイビル) to catch stunning night views of the city.
Dining Recommendations:
- Hankyu Umeda Main Store (B1 food floor): Near Umeda Sky Building, offering affordable and diverse culinary options.
Day 3: Osaka to Kyoto and Uji
Take the JR Limited Express from Osaka to Kyoto (30 minutes). Check in and then board the JR Nara Line (奈良線) to Uji Station (宇治駅) (another 30 minutes). Uji is a peaceful town with picturesque scenery, perfect for photography.
Matcha Delights:
- Nakamura Tokichi Osaka: Known for premium matcha products and a matcha-making experience.
- Itoh Kyuemon: Good for matcha souvenirs, though in-house dining is average.
Day 4: Discovering Kyoto
Take a bus to Kiyomizu-dera Temple (清水寺) to admire its iconic clifftop architecture. Stroll through Ninenzaka (二年坂) and Sannenzaka (三年坂) streets to capture the essence of Kyoto (arrive early to avoid crowds). In the afternoon, watch a traditional maiko (apprentice geisha) performance in Hanamikoji Street (花見小路). Later, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station (稲荷駅) and explore the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine (伏見稲荷大社), famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Hike up the mountain for an unforgettable experience. End your day with a visit to Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社), which is beautifully illuminated at night.
Day 5: A Day in Nara
Travel on the JR Nara Line to Kintetsu-Nara Station (近鉄奈良駅) and take a bus to Nara Park (奈良公園). Buy deer crackers outside the park to feed the friendly deer in designated areas. Explore Todai-ji Temple (東大寺) and enjoy sunset views from Mount Wakakusa (若草山). Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社), where tame deer roam freely.
Day 6: Kobe and Arima Onsen
Kobe, a relaxed coastal city, offers a leisurely experience. Visit Meriken Park for waterfront views. For an exquisite Kobe beef meal, choose a century-old restaurant (reservations needed, expect around 20,000 yen per person). Take a bus to Arima Onsen, a tranquil hot spring town. Stay overnight at a ryokan (traditional inn) or simply soak in the mineral-rich waters. The Kinsen and Ginsen baths at Taikou no Yu (太閤の湯) are highly recommended.
Day 7: Shopping in Osaka and Departure
Spend your final day in Osaka shopping for electronics at Bic Camera Namba Store, food and figurines at the Hankyu Umeda Main Store B1 floor, and luxury brands at Daimaru Umeda Store. Conclude your Kansai adventure with an unforgettable shopping spree.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, ensuring a memorable trip to the Kansai region of Japan.