As one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it's no surprise that Osaka is a hit with many travellers from all around the world. Although the city is one of the most modern in the world, it has also managed to retain many of its unique traditional charms ❤️ Like many main cities in Japan, Osaka also does not have a reputation for being a cheap destination, but that's simply not true. There's plenty you can do in Osaka even while travelling under a budget ?
Credit: Giphy
We've compiled an itinerary that allows you to visit the best of Osaka's attractions and food for under RM2500! Between exploring Osaka city and even taking a day trip to enjoy the scenic greens in Nara, there's plenty you can do with that budget with the right planning ? And this itinerary includes transportation and food costs too.
Note that as of 14 June 2019, the exchange rate for the Japanese Yen and Malaysian Ringgit are: RM1 : ¥25.99
WHEN TO VISIT
Timing your visit based on the season is a must for an affordable trip to Osaka. You wouldn't want to head there in April since it'll be during the cherry blossom season and accommodation prices will be hiked up since there will be an influx of tourist. The same could be said during the peak of autumn (September - November). To get better deals on flights and accommodations, we suggest you visit during summer (June - August).
Do note that hotel and flight prices for this article were searched for the travelling period of July 2019.
STAYING CONNECTED
Staying connected is a must during your travels, not just for the sake of Instagram and Facebook (which is a HUGE bonus), but also to keep in contact with family and friends, using the GPS to navigate around the city, checking up on attraction information or any events that are happening near you! You can purchase a 4G sim card from Klook at RM40 that'll give you 1GB data (there are other options too with more data but at different prices) for a whole 8 days, which is more than sufficient for your travels in Osaka. All you have to do it pick it up at the airport upon arrival ?
Cost: RM40 on Klook
#HHWT Tip: Use this promo code to get discounts off your first purchase on Klook: TRAVELHHWTMY (MYR15 off)!
TRAIN PASS
Unless you're planning to leave the Kansai region, you don't have to get anything more than the JR Kansai Rail Pass, which covers all your transportation expenses (JR trains and buses) within Kansai! You can take the trains and explore outside Osaka city as long as they're within the Kansai region, such as Nara which is included in this itinerary ? All you have to do it pick it up at the airport upon arrival.
With this pass, you can also use it to take the trains (Express Haruka train, non-reserved seats) from Kansai City and Osaka Airport when you arrive, and back to the airport too when you depart.
Cost: RM242 on Klook
FLYING INTO OSAKA
There are plenty of airlines flying into Osaka daily but we suggest you take AirAsia because of the price and time. It's early arrival and nighttime departure gives you a FULL 5 days and 4 nights to explore Osaka! For these flights, the price is around RM911, depending on the days you select, it can even get as low as RM711 ?
Do note that flight prices are based on searches for the travelling period of July 2019.
Cost: RM911
WHERE TO STAY
Khaosan World hostels are famous among backpackers. The hostel is probably the biggest Khaosan World hostel and it has different types of accommodations that you can choose based on your preference. From capsule beds to deluxe rooms, they even have private rooms for small groups. They also host free events during the week, including its famous takoyaki night that you don’t want to miss! If that’s not enough for you, head on to Ganko Hozenji to enjoy their delicious gyu-nabe (beef hot pot) or get some amazing ramen at Ramen Honolu. You can find out more about them here.
To make the most out of your budget, we suggest you stay in the shared female dormitory (6 per room) since it's only RM51 per night!
Khaosan World Namba also provides a comprehensive guide to get to the hotel from Kansai International airport so you'll get there easily!
Cost: RM51/night or RM204/4 nights on Agoda
Address: 1 Chome-2-13 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours
Contact: +81 6-6632-7373
Website | Facebook | Instagram
Unfortunately, we could not locate budget accommodations that are nearby mosques in Osaka. However, this capsule hotel is also a 9-minute walk from Namba City Mall, which has a surau for Muslims to pray located on level B1.
[P.S. Looking for more accommodations in Osaka? Here are 10 best accommodations in Osaka near halal food (from RM89)]
Muslim-friendly food
There are plenty of halal and Muslim-friendly restaurants and cafes in Osaka to keep your tummy happy. We have listed down those nearby attractions in this itinerary, but if you would like to explore more, check out our ultimate guide to Muslim-friendly food in Osaka.
Some of the Muslim-friendly restaurants and cafes in nearby areas tend to open after 11am so it's not easy to find breakfast spots, but there are plenty of Muslim-friendly snacks in convenience stores to keep you fueled up till then if you can't find any suitable food. Do keep a lookout for these snacks in convenience stores as you explore Osaka.
DAY 1
Since our suggested accommodation is within walking distance to Osaka-Nama Train Station, our itinerary will start the day from there ? If you opt for other accommodation, you can always hop on the nearest JR train with your JR Kansai Rail pass! Also, our suggested travel time and time at each location is the average time for travellers, you can always move on your on time and decide on which attraction suits your interest best.
Osaka Castle (2.5 hours)
- The Osaka Castle was first built in 1583 and 1585 by the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi who ruled over Japan during that era. Nowadays, it remains as one of the iconic landmarks not only in Osaka but in Japan due to its history, architecture and enormous structure (for Japan's standard).
- Explore the castle surroundings and immerse yourself in the architecture and design of feudal Japan.
- Make your way up the castle, which is now an 8-storey museum highlighting the castle's history. Find historical artefacts, samurai outfits, and miniature displays of the original 16th-century castle and it's surrounding areas. Or head to the first floor and enjoy short historical programs on the castle's history with English subtitles
- On the 8th floor, there's an observatory deck where you can enjoy a spectacular view of Tokyo city.
- Don't forget to explore the scenic gardens surrounding the area too, which spans across two square kilometres.
Cost: ¥600 / RM23 per adult
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm daily
How to get there from Osaka-Namba station:
30 minutes by train
1. Osaka-Namba station to Tsuruhashi Station (Kintetsu Nara line)
2. Tsuruhashi Station to Osakajokoen Station (Osaka loop line)
3. 15 minutes walk to Osaka Castle
[P.S. Doing the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route instead? Here's a 7 days 6 nights Muslim-friendly itinerary to conquer those 3 cities!]
Osaka Museum of History (2 hours)
- Just walking distance from Osaka Castle is the Osaka Museum of History, this is the best place to visit if you wish to learn about the city's colourful history. Learn about Osaka from ancient time up to its current modern period.
- There are two 'courses' for you to explore in the museum, a Highlight course which covers all the main highlights, and the Complete course which showcases everything you need to know about Osaka's history.
- Explore exhibits showcasing different periods of Japan, lifesize mannequins in traditional outfits, videos showing films depicting different eras, miniature feudal towns, and plenty of archaeological work.
Cost: ¥600 / RM23 per adult
Address: 4 Chome-1-32 Otemae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0008, Japan
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 9am - 5.30pm, closed on Tuesdays
Contact: +81 6-6946-5728
How to get there from Osaka Castle: 13-minute walk
Food: Kuromon Ichiba Market (2 hours)
- You can't visit Japan without trying out the country's greatest highlights - fresh seafood!
- Indulge yourself in the freshest seafood at Kuromon Ichiba Market, which has been around since 1902!
- Find plenty of stalls selling a variety of grilled seafood that suits you liking from fish, prawns, crabs, lobsters, and even sea urchin!
Cost: Starts at ¥120 for snacks on sticks and ¥4000 for seafood trays, average ¥800/RM30 per person
Food status: Seafood options available
Address: 2 Chome-4-１ Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6631-0007
How to get there from Osaka Museum of History:
20 minutes by train
1. 5 minutes walk to Tanimachiyonchome Station
2. Tanimachiyonchome Station to Sakaisuji Hommachi Station (Chuo line)
3. Sakaisuji Hommachi Station to Nippombashi Station
4. 4 minutes walk to Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum (1 hour)
- Since it's only a 9-minute walk from the Kuromon Ichiba Market, checking out the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum is a must! It's the only museum in the world that exhibits Kamigata Ukiyoe, or Kamgigata woodblock prints. Kamigata woodblock prints were commonly sold in the Osaka-Kyoto region during the 16th to the 18th century and were a huge part of their culture.
- The museum has over 50 works in its permanent exhibition, plenty of non-permanent works that come and go, as well as workshops for those who are interested in trying it out for themselves!
Cost: ¥500 / RM19.20 per adult
Address: 1 Chome-6-4 Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays 11am - 6pm, closed on Mondays
Contact: +81 6-6211-0303
How to get there from Kuromon Ichiba Market: 9 minutes walk
Hozenji Temple (1 hour)
- Hozenji temple is a small and quaint temple in the middle of the city. You can access this place during the day but plenty of travellers prefer to visit in the evening as it starts to get dark since it's lighted lanterns make it it a unique experience in comparison to other temples in Japan.
- Many travellers also describe the temple's atmosphere as magical because of its serene atmosphere at night.
Cost: Free
Address: 1 Chome-2-16 Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Contact: +81 6-6211-4152
Website (Japanese only)
How to get there from Kuromon Ichiba Market: 1-minute walk
Dōtonbori (1.5 hours)
- You can't visit Osaka without taking a mandatory picture with Glico Man!
- Explore Dotonbori's street which is known for its extravagant and loud lights, signage and numerous amounts of shops!
- Although visiting Dotonbori during the daytime is perfectly fine, it's extravagance is amped up at night with all the gaudy lights giving it a surreal atmosphere.
Cost: Free
Address: 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours
Contact: +81 6-6211-4542
How to get there from Hozenji Temple: 2 minutes walk
Food: Tsuki No Odori
Rejoice if you’re a chicken lover! Tsuki no Odori, which is known for their chicken dishes, has now started serving their halal menu every day! ? They’ve taken great care to ensure that the halal dishes served meets their standards and diners’ expectations. Their miso hot pot and chicken salt hot pot are made for sharing with a minimum of 2 people, so this is the perfect place to slurp down some hot soup with your travel buddies!
Cost: ¥2100 to ¥3500 yen / RM80 - 134
Food status: Halal meat available. Alcohol is served at the premise. We suggest readers dine at their own discretion.
Address: 24K Bld.2F, 1-1-11, Dotombori, Chuo-ku Osaka-shi, Osaka
Opening hours: 4pm - 12am (Last order at 11pm). Closed on Thursdays.
Contact: +816-6213-9988
How to get there from Dotonbori: located within Dotonbori
[P.S. Heading to Osaka for a food adventure? Here's the ultimate guide to Muslim-friendly food in Osaka instead]
DAY 2
Sumiyoshi-taisha (2.5 hours)
- Visit one of Osaka's oldest shrines, Sumiyoshi Taisha, and we mean old! It was founded before the introduction of Buddhism and built over 1800 years ago.
- Explore four main halls in the shrine and exit into one of the most beautiful arched bridge over a pond, the Sorihashi Bridge.
Cost: Free
Address: 2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan
Opening hours: 6am - 5pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6672-0753
Website | Facebook | Instagram
How to get there from Osaka Namba Station:
(19 minutes by train)
1. 9-minute walk to Namba Station
2. Namba Statio to Sumiyoshitaisha Station (Nankai Line)
3. 1-minute walk to Sumiyoshi-taisha
Abeno Harukas (1.5hours)
- At over 300 metres tall, Abeno Harukas is the tallest skyscraper in Japan.
- Make your way up to the observation deck (Harukas 360) and enjoy the view of the entire Osaka city with the deck's high celling to floor glass view!
Cost: ¥1500 / RM57 per adult
Address: 1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6624-1111
Website | Facebook | Instagram
How to get there from Sumiyoshi-taisha:
18 minutes by train - Sumiyoshi Taisha Station to Tennojiekimae Station (Hankaidenki - Uemachi Line)
Shinsekai (1 hour)
- Shinsekai is an area in Osaka that was developed before World War II only to be neglected a few decades later. Nowadays, it has been revived and is now considered one of the iconic neighbourhoods to visit since much of the neighbourhood remained unchanged, giving you a feel of how Osaka was in the early 19th century!
- Explore the streets and alleyways of Shinsekai and immerse yourself in this hustling and bustling neighbourhood in Osaka!
Cost: Free
Address:Ebisuhigashi, Naniwaku, Osaka 556-0002, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 24 hours
How to get there from Abeno Harukas:
10 minutes by train
1. 1-minute walk to Tennōji Station
2. Tennōji Station to Dobutsuen-Mae Station (Midosuji Line)
3. 8-minute walk to Shinsekai
Shitennō-ji (1 hour)
- A must visit in Japan is one of it's oldest temples, Shitenno-ji. It was built in 593 by Prince Shotoku who was supportive of the introduction of Buddhism into Japan. The temple was burnt down multiple times but it has been reconstructed to reflect its original structure that was built in the 6th century.
- Explore the temple and its inner areas such as a pagoda, a beautiful garden and a treasure house ?
- And if you do happen to visit this place on the 21st or 22nd of the month, you'll find a large flea market there with over 300 stalls, hosted by the temple.
Cost: ¥300 /RM11.50 per adult
Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6771-0066
Website (Japanese only)
How to get there from Shinsekai: 15 minutes walk
Food: Ramen Honolu
The restaurant serves delicious ramen noodles swimming in either salted or soy-based chicken broth. The thick, cloudy broth is made by boiling halal chicken for all of eight hours, so believe us when we say that the soup is simply…umami perfection! The best part is that you can also choose your spice rating, ranging from mild to spicy to extra spicy, so for chilli-lovers out there, rejoice!
Cost: ¥380 - 880 / RM14.60 - 34
Food status: Halal meat available. Alcohol is served on premise. We suggest readers dine at their own discretion.
Address: 1F, 2-5-27 Motomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 556-0016
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 11.30am – 12.30pm (lunch) & 5pm – 9pm (dinner), Sunday 5pm – 9pm(dinner).
Contact: 06-6710-9604
Website | Facebook | Instagram
How to get there from Shitennō-ji:
27 minutes by train
1. 10 minutes walk to Tennōji Station
2. Tennōji Station to Daikokucho Station (Midosuji Line)
3. 12 minutes walk to Ramen Honolu
Namba Yasaka Shrine (1.5 hours)
- Namba Yasaka Shrine is a unique piece of architecture for one every apparent reason - it's lion head stage which stands at 12 meters tall and 7 meters deep. This unique piece was built in 1975 giving it a somewhat retro feel, and a little mismatched charm in comparison to the rest of the shrines in Japan.
- Some locals believe that the massive lion's mouth swallows evil spirit to bring in good luck, so you'll find worshippers during exam times or at the start of the financial year.
Cost: Free
Address: 2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan
Opening hours: 6am - 5pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6641-1149
Website (Japanese only)
How to get there from Ramen Honolu: 1-minute walk
Nipponbashi Denden Town (1.5 hours)
- Nipponbashi Denden Town is Osaka's equivalent of Tokyo's Akihabara. The district is known for its electronics, gadgets, audio equipment, toys and much more.
- Spend an hour or so here browsing through different shops, many with their own quirky gadgets. Though if you do decide to purchase any electronics such as phones or laptops, make sure that it's in English since many of the electronics there only have a Japanese interface.
- For the discount seekers, there are plenty of stalls around for you to bargain your best price, and even the bigger shops provide tax refunds for overseas tourists.
Cost: Free
Address: 4 Chome-12 Nipponbashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0005, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6655-1717
Website (Japanese only)
How to get there from Namba Yasaka Shrine: 13 minutes walk
Food: Tsuki No Odori
If you're feeling peckish after a day of exploring, head back to Tsuki No Odoru for another slurp-worthy bowl or ramen since it's the nearest. Or if you don't mind the distance, you could always find other Muslim-friendly food establishments in Osaka we've listed here!
How to get there from Nipponbashi Denden Town:
10 minutes by train
1. 5 minutes walk to Ebisucho Station
2. Ebisucho Station to Nippombashi Station (Sakaisuji Line)
3. 4 minutes walk to Tsuku No Odori
DAY 3
Food: Naritaya Osaka
Also, another halal ramen chain famous since its opening in Asakusa, Tokyo, Naritaya offers quality and comfort ramen – a refuge for after a long day exploring the nearby shopping streets of Shinsaibashi. Although it also specializes in ramen, you must not miss out on its distinct (but equally as tasty!) flavours.
Cost: ¥800 to 1300
Food status: Halal certified
Address: 1-7-23, Higashishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku Osaka-shi, Osaka 542-0083
Opening hours: Weekdays 11am– 3pm, 5pm – 10pm, Weekends 12pm - 5pm
Contact: +81 6-6281-0133 / Reserve online here!
Website | Facebook | Instagram
How to get there from Osaka-Namba Station:
12 minutes by train
1. 4 minutes walk to Namba Station
2. Namba Station to Shinsaibashi Station (Midosuji Line)
3. 7 minutes walk to Naritaya
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living (1.5 hours)
- If you want to experience being in Osaka during the Edo period, this is the place to be. The museum has amazingly recreated streets and buildings replicating the towns of Osaka in the past!
- Explore the 'town' and visit olden shops such as kimono markers, sentos (public bathhouse), carpenters, and even a town hall! Even the seasons in the town changes to follow real life outside.
- At 'nightttime' in the replica town, you'll even get to see a fireworks display!
- And of course, as with any historical museum, there are plenty of ancient artefacts and exhibits from that era.
- Make your way to the 10th floor, which is an observatory for you to see the entire town from above ?
Cost: ¥600 / RM23 per adult
Address: Japan, 〒530-0041 Osaka, Kita Ward, Tenjinbashi, 6 Chome−4−２０ 住まい情報センタービル8階
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 10am - 5pm, closed on Tuesdays
Contact: +81 6-6242-1170
How to get there from Naritaya:
17 minutes by train
1. 6 minutes walk to Nagahoribashi Station
2. Nagahoribashi Station to Tenjimbashisujirokuchome Station (Sakaisuji Line)
3. 2 minutes to the museum
Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street (1 hour)
- Tenjinbashi Shopping Street is one of the oldest shopping streets in Osaka, and it's over 2.6km long! Just walking the entire street itself would take around 40 minutes.
- Even if you're not much of a shopper, walking through the street with over 800 shops is a sight to see with its variety of shopping such as tea stores, fashion, food, kimono, chinaware, books, medicine and even knife shops. And for those who do enjoy shopping. . . good luck to your friends prying you out of Tenjibashi!
Cost: Free
Address: Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 532-0011, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm daily
Website (Japanese only)
How to get there from Osaka Museum of Housing and Living: 1-minute walk
[P.S. Looking for more shopping spots in Osaka? Here are 11 more shopping spots in Osaka to satisfy the shopaholic in you]
Umeda Sky Building (1 hour)
- Head up to the observation deck of the Umeda Sky Building which is a circular platform built in between two towers and enjoy another spectacular view of Osaka. Unlike the Abeno Harukas, the Umeda Sky Building also offers an open-air deck.
- The building itself is a striking deisgn with its high rise structure of glass and steel that stands out among its surrounding structures.
- And at the basement floor, spend some time exploring a restaurant floor that is a replicate of a Japanese town during the Showa period.
Cost: ¥1000 / RM38.50 per adult
Address:1 Chome-1-87 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan
Opening hours: 9.30am - 10.30pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6440-3900
How to get there fromTenjinbashisuji Shopping Street:
26 minutes by bus
1. 8 minutes to Tenjinbashi Hachichome Bus Stop
2. Take bus number 34 to Chikatetsunakatsu Bus Stop
3. 13 minutes walk to Umeda Sky Building
Pokémon Center Osaka (1 hour)
- Came to Japan to find some Pokemons? Well, the Osaka Pokemon Centre is where you'll find them all! Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Squirtle and Charmander will be there waiting for you. The place is a haven for Pokemon fans!
- Find Pokemon things of all sorts. Clothing, stationery, accessories, bags, umbrellas, lunch utensils, plush toys, napkins - everything!
- Oddly enough, you wouldn't find many young children there. Instead, most of the visitors are of adult age reminiscing their childhood with these amazing memorabilia ?
Cost: Free
Address: Japan, 〒530-8202 Osaka, Kita Ward, Umeda, 3 Chome−1−1 大丸梅田店１３F
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6346-6002
Website | Facebook | Instagram
How to get there from Umeda Sky Building: 13 minutes walk
Nakanoshima Rose Garden (1 hour)
- Nakanoshima Park is nestled in between two rivers, Dojimagawa and Tosaborigawa. Although it is most popular during spring when it's 4000 flowers are in full bloom, it is still a nice park to have a slow stroll during summer.
Cost: Free
Address: 1 Chome-1 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours
Contact: +81 6-6312-8121
How to get there from Pokémon Center Osaka:
20 minutes by train
1. 6 minutes walk to Umeda station
2. Umeda Station to Yodoyabashi Station (Midosuji Line)
3. 11 minutes walk to Nakanoshima Rose Garden
Amerikamura (1 hour)
- Also known as Amemura, this place is Osaka's equivalent to Tokyo's Shinjuku. Although the name Amerikamura translates to 'American Village', it doesn't resemble anything of the US, except for a huge statue of liberty replica.
- Find plenty of teenagers and college students dressed up in their lolita-goth outfits, and other funky outfits during the weekends.
- As you explore the streets, you'll find plenty that will gain your attention, from quirky bookstores, funky shops, and boutiques selling eccentrics fashion goods.
Cost: Free
Address: 1 Chome-2-4 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0086, Japan
Opening hours: 11am- 7pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6243-2789
How to get there from Nakashima Rose Garden:
22 minutes by train
1. 12 minutes walk to Yodoyabashi Station
2. Yodoyabashi Station to Shinsaibashi Station (Midosuji Line)
3. 6 minutes walk to Amerikamura
Food: 3te' Cafe
Have you always wanted to try Kobe beef but couldn’t squeeze Kobe into your itinerary? No fret! This awesome cafe serves full-course meals with Kobe beef, complete with appetizers and dessert! The best part about 3 te’ is that they organise meet-ups with fellow Muslimahs thrice every month! This is clearly the perfect place for a pleasant and comfortable meal ?
Cost: ¥800 - 5000 / RM30 - 192
Food status: Halal meat available
Address: 1 Chome-10-17 Nishishinsaibashi, Chūō-ku, Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu 542-0086, Japan
Opening hours: Daily 11am - 4pm, and 6pm - 10pm
Contact: [email protected]
Website | Facebook | Instagram
How to get there from Amerikamura: 2 minutes walk
DAY 4
Nara Park (whole day)
- Nara is a city that's about an hour away from Osaka by train, and it's one of Osaka's nearby locations that's worth spending an entire day exploring the place.
- The park is known for its 1,000 deers who are friendly to visitors. Most who have heard of Nara Park but have not been there tend to associate the place with deers, but there's so much more to explore in this massive park.
- We suggest you take your time and spend an entire day there to fully experience Nara in a single day trip. Some of the things you could do in Nara Park are listed below, but there are plenty of other attractions within the park that you could include in your own time too.
Cost: RM8 bus fee
Address: Nara, 630-8211, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours
Contact: +81 742-22-0375
How to get there from Osaka-Namba Station:
About 60 - 75 minutes
1. 3 minutes walk to Namba Station
2. Namba Station to Umeda Station (Midosuji Line)
3. 2 minutes walk to Osaka Station
4. Osaka Station to Nara Station (Osaka Loop Line and Yamatoji Line)
5. Take the bus (leaves every 5 minutes) to Todaiji Daibutsuden - RM8 one way.
6. 2 minutes walk to the park entrance
[P.S. Want to visit more of Osaka's nearby cities? Check out this 7 days 6 nights itinerary to conquer Osaka and its surrounding cities!]
Kōfuku-ji
- On the main road at Nara Park is the Kokufuji Temple, which is a five-storey pagoda. The pagoda is listed as a World Heritage site and was built in 669 by a noble family during the Heian Period, the Fujiwara family. It's one of the few remaining building in Nara from that era that survived through time.
- The surrounding areas are worth exploring, though you need to pay an entry fee to enter the National Treasure Museum and the Eastern Golden Hall which feature some architecture and artefacts.
Cost: Free (fee required for some exhibitions - National Treasure Museum and Eastern Golden Hall)
Address: 48 Noboriojicho, Nara, 630-8213, Japan
Opening hours: Temple grounds are open 24 hours, National Treasure Museum and Eastern Golden Hall 9am - 5pm
Contact: +81 742-22-7755
Isui-en Gardens
- You don't have to be a professional photographer to take stunning photos here! Every single photo taken of this place is a gorgeous one worth being on your Instagram feed. Isui-en is one of the most attractive gardens around with its detailed Japanese-style landscaping, giving it a tranquil and serene atmosphere.
- This stunning garden was created during the Edo period (16th to 18th century), and with Nara's magnificent mountains as its backdrop, it is a sight to behold ?
Cost: ¥900 / RM35 per adult
Address: Japan, 〒630-8208 Nara, Suimoncho, ７２−３ 氷心亭
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 9.30am - 4.30pm, closed on Tuesdays
Tōdai-ji
- A place that you must see when visiting Nara - it's considered one of Nara's iconic landmarks that was constructed in 752 and was the head of all provincial Buddhist temples in Japan at it's prime.
- Explore the main hall showing one of Japan's largest Buddha statues at 15 meters tall as well as the Nandaimon Gate, a large wooden gate watched over by two fierce looking statues.
Cost: ¥600 / RM23 per adult
Address: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8211, Japan
Opening hours: 7.30am to 5.30pm (April to October), 8am to 5pm (November to March)
Contact: +81 742-22-5511
Kasuga-taisha
- Also built by the Fujiwara family is the Kasuga Taisha shrine. The shrine is famous for its hundreds of lanterns which were donated by worshippers over many years. The lanterns are lit twice a year, in February and August during the lantern festivals.
- Explore most of the shrine, and you'll find some of the most photo-worthy spots here with the red pillars, lanterns and stunning Heian Period Japanese architecture. There are plenty of smaller shrines in the woods surrounding the Kasuga Taisha, and just a short walk away is the Kasuga Taisha Shinen Manyo Botanical Gardens with over 250 species plants.
- Do note that there are extra charges for the inner area of the main building.
Cost: ¥500 / RM19 per adult
Address: 160 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8212, Japan
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (April to September), 6.30am to 5pm (October to March)
Contact: +81 742-22-7788
Website (Japanese only)
Food: Naramachi Jinniyah
One of the well-known places serving halal food is Halal Ramen Naramachi Jinniyah, located in the old town district of Naramachi. Have your fill of their scrumptious ramen (from ¥ 850), teriyaki chicken rice bowls or grilled chicken (from ¥ 500)! Not only does this eatery serve delicious food, but it also has a tatami seating area so you can experience the traditional Japanese way of dining.
Do note that you’d need to make a reservation 2 days in advance and that a purchase of ¥ 1,000 or more is needed per person.
Cost: minimum ¥1000 / RM35.50
Food status: Halal meat available, prayer facilities in establishment
Address: 28-34 Minamijodocho, Nara, 630-8341, Japan
Opening hours: Friday to Tuesday 11.30am - 6pm, closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays
Contact: Email [email protected] to make your reservation.
[P.S. Love train rides? Explore Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima and more cities with this 5 days 4 nights JR WEST Rail itinerary!]
DAY 5
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (2 hours)
- One of the must-visits for every traveller in Osaka is the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
- Explore the vast aquarium as it takes you through 15 massive tanks representing the large ocean of the Pacific Rim.
- You'll start on the 8th floor and spiral down all floors to the main tank allowing you to see each tank from different perspectives.
Cost: RM88 on Klook
Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm daily
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How to get there from Osaka-Namba Station:
26 minutes by train
1. Osaka-Namba Station to Kujo Station
2. Kujo Station to Osakako Station
3. 9 minutes walk to Osaka Aquarium
Tempozan Market Place (2 hours)
- After 4 days of exploring Osaka and Nara, the Tempozan Marketplace by Osaka's bay area is the perfect place to wind down before making your way back to pack for the airport.
- Grab some drinks from nearby shops, and head to one of the outdoor seating areas and enjoy Osaka's sun at this breezy place!
Cost: Free
Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Opening hours: 11am - 8pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6576-5501
How to get there from Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Tempozan Marketplace is a few minutes upon exiting the aquarium
Tempozan Ferris Wheel (1 hour)
- The last one before you hit the road back to Kansai Airport, and why not make it large Ferris wheel ride for one last sky-high view of Osaka (until your next trip back)!
- The Tempozan Ferris wheel is one of the largest is the world at 112.4 metres high and offers you amazing views of Mount Ikoma, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Kansai International Airport, and the Rokko mountains!
Cost: ¥800 / RM30 per adult
Address:1 Chome-1-１０ Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 9.30pm daily
Contact: +81 6-6576-6222
Website (Japanese only)
How to get there from Tempozan Marketplace: located within Marketplace vicinity
Before departure at Kansai International Airport
- Already missing the amazing food? Get your fill of halal soba at Sojibo, a restaurant that is halal-certified by the Malaysia Halal Consultation & Training Agency.
- Take your pick from a variety of handmade soba noodles that can be served cold with dipping sauces or have them served in hot broth.
Cost: ¥560 / RM22 for a bowl of plain ramen noodles
Food status: Halal certified
Address: Kansai International Airport
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm daily
Contact: +81 72-456-6519
Total cost:
Essentials: RM1,397
- 4G Sim Card - RM40
- JR Kansai Rail Pass - RM242
- Flight tickets - RM911
- Accommodation - RM204
Attractions: RM406
- Osaka Castle - RM23
- Osaka Museum of History - RM23
- Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum - RM19
- Dotonbori - Free
- Hozenji Temple - Free
- Sumiyoshi Taisha - Free
- Abeno Harukas - RM57
- Shinsekai - Free
- Shitenno-Ji - RM11.50
- Namba Yasaka Shrine - Free
- Nipponbashi Denden Town - Free
- Osaka Museum of Housing and Living - RM23
- Tenjibnashisuji Shopping Street - Free
- Umeda Sky Building - RM38.50
- Pokemon Centre - Free
- Nakanoshima Rose Garden - Free
- Amerikamura - Free
- Nara Park - RM16 (bus fee)
- Kokufu-ji - Free
- Isui-en Gardens - RM35
- Todai-ji - RM23
- Kasuga-Taisha - RM19
- Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium - RM88
- Tempozan Marketplace - Free
- Tempozan Ferris Wheel - RM30
Food: RM366.10
- Kuromon Ichiba Market - RM30
- Tsuki No Odori - RM160 (RM80 x 2)
- Ramen Honolu - RM14.60
- Naritaya Osaka - RM31
- 3te Cafe - RM50
- Naramichi Jinniyah - RM38.50
- Sojibo at Kansai Airport - RM22
- Extra (snacks from convenience stores) - RM200
TOTAL RM2349.10
Do you know what could use the change for? For some awesome shopping time in Osaka ?
And there you have it, a 5 days 4 nights itinerary for Osaka and Nara for less than RM2500. You could always remove and add more attractions and food to suit your personal preference and budget.
It's time you grab your travel buddy and drag them with you to Osaka for your next adventure!