Three Days of Neon Lights & Delicious Bites
Osaka is a buzzing city that pulsates with a unique energy perfect for a family adventure. But fret not if you are pressed for time, because you need just three days are enough to enjoy the key attractions in the city.
With its manageable size, exciting attractions, and a solid focus on fun, this 3-day itinerary for families promises a whirlwind adventure that will leave your family with lasting memories (and certainly a few extra kilos from all the delicious food!).
Read on to know how.
How to get around Osaka?
If you're wondering about how to get around Osaka, fret not. Osaka boasts a well-developed public transportation system.
The subway network is extensive and efficient, while buses and taxis are readily available.
Consider purchasing a prepaid travel card like ICOCA or PASMO for convenient fare payment.
Alternatively, buy a JR Whole Japan Rail Pass if you also plan to explore beyond Osaka.
Day 1
9:30am: Travel to Minato Ward Area
Your first stop on day 1 is Osaka's Minato Ward. It isn't just a port district but a vibrant blend of history, entertainment, and stunning harbour views.
With the completion of the Chikko Great Pier and the establishment of streetcar lines Minato Ward's development spurred on shipping and distribution companies, solidifying its role as Osaka's gateway to the sea.
The place boasts a unique charm, with iconic landmarks like the Tsutenkaku Tower offering panoramic cityscapes.
While not as polished as other areas, Minato Ward is still a haven for delicious local eats and a strong sense of Osaka spirit. You can also explore hidden gems like Tempozan Harbor Village nearby.
How To Reach: From Osaka Station, take the Osaka Loop Line. Get down at Bentencho Station
From Bentencho Station take bus 84 towards Yahataya 3-Chrome
Get down at Misaki 2-Chrome
Minato Ward is a 6-min walk.
10:30am: LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Osaka
Your next stop - LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Osaka! Perfect for the entire family and the best spot to relive your childhood.
Dive into interactive exhibits and exciting rides designed to spark your imagination. Build your own creations, soar through themed adventures, and become a master builder.
You'll marvel at Miniland, a stunning cityscape meticulously built from millions of LEGO bricks, explore iconic Osaka landmarks in miniature form and discover the city's charm.
Immerse yourself in a captivating 4D LEGO cinema experience.
Brace yourself for thrilling effects like rain, wind, and even snow as your favourite LEGO characters come alive on screen.
Join Bertie and Bonnie, the loveable LEGO mascots, on a fun-filled factory tour and learn the secrets behind these beloved building blocks.
1:30pm: Kids Plaza Osaka
Later, let the kids have a blast at Kids Plaza Osaka, in the Kita District. This is a fantastic science discovery and play area for children.
You can easily spend two hours here letting your children check out the brilliant hands-on science exhibits and then playing in the children’s castle.
3:30pm: Travel from Kids Plaza Osaka to Minami District
The next obvious destination is the Minami District. In addition to being a fun place to walk around, it’s also a good place for an early dinner.
How to Reach: Walk from Kids Plaza to the Ogimachi subway station (3min).
Take the Sakaisuji subway line. Get off at Nipponbashi Station
From the street level, walk about 200 meters north to the colourful Dotombori Arcade in Minami District
4pm: Explore Dotonbori
After spending time at Minami, explore Dotonbori, which is the colourful heart of the Minami District. Walk west along the Dotonbori Arcade, checking out some of Osaka’s most iconic sights.
Dotonbori district is Osaka's beating heart, a dazzling explosion of neon lights, towering signs, and electrifying energy.
Here, the iconic Glico Running Man sign illuminates the Dotonbori canal, while restaurants vie for attention with larger-than-life displays of their specialties; for instance, giant plastic takoyaki and replicas of swimming tuna floating on the buildings!
The air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of street food vendors grilling okonomiyaki and sizzling wagyu beef. Dotonbori is a feast for the senses.
You can later go on a river cruise, which is absolutely unmissable!
5:30pm: Early Dinner in Minami
Minami District is packed with family-friendly restaurants. You’ll find the best selection on the Dotombori Arcade. Almost all the restaurants in this area have English menus and special seats for children.
7pm: Return to Your Hotel
After dinner, you can make your way back to your accommodation and take rest for the day. Day 2 is gonna be even more fun, so taking ample sleep is important!
Day 2
This will be a memorable day well spent at Universal Studios Japan. We're sure you're tired of waiting in long lines, upgrade your Universal Studios Japan experience with an Express Pass.
With that you can select from two options – the Express Pass 4 or 7, depending on the number of rides you want to hop on. Wave goodbye to queueing woes. The Express Pass grants you priority access to popular rides and attractions, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the park and less time waiting.
Dreaming of exploring Super Nintendo World? Certain Express Pass options grant guaranteed admission to this highly sought-after area, along with other popular zones.
Whether you crave heart-pounding rollercoasters or family-friendly fun, the Express Pass 4 & 7 cater to a variety of interests. Get ready to experience the magic of Universal Studios Japan without the wait.
9:30 am: Get to Universal Studios Japan
It's morning and we suggest you to arrive at the Universal Studios early in the morning as there are a lot of attractions to cover. The first attraction you can cover is Super Nintendo World. Here you can immerse yourself in the exciting and thrilling world of Mario.
10:30 am: Explore Hogsmeade attractions and rides
Late Morning: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
At Universal Studios Japan, you will find the wonder of Harry Potter come to life. You can walk the cobblestone streets of Hogsmeade, visit the iconic shops like Honeydukes and Ollivanders, and experience the thrills of the Forbidden Journey ride or a Hippogriff flight too.
What's more? You can even cool off with a delicious Butterbeer. Potterheads might even catch a glimpse of the Hogwarts Express arriving at the station. Your day cannot get any better, can it?
1 pm – 2 pm: Beating lunchtime crowds for lunch
As lunch time can be pretty crowded here, it's best to take an early lunch break and utilise the time. Gain energy as more excitement is coming your way!
2pm –3 pm: Exploring family-friendly attractions in Universal Wonderland
You can explore the Universal Wonderland and enjoy its exciting and family-friendly attractions. We are sure the wonderland will leave you breathless and asking for more!
4 pm –5 pm: Maximising time in Super Nintendo World
Continue the Adventure in Super Nintendo World, which is a gamer's paradise. You can step into the Mushroom Kingdom and explore life-sized versions of Peach's Castle and Warp Pipes. Challenge your friends and family on a Mario Kart ride or join Yoshi on a thrilling adventure.
But the fun doesn't stop there - you can use your interactive wristband to collect coins throughout the park and enjoy delicious Nintendo-themed snacks. It's like stepping right inside your favourite video game!
5pm - 7pm: Final Adventures and Night time Entertainment
Universal Studios Japan's fun and excitement doesn't stop when the sun goes down! As darkness falls, the park transforms into a dazzling spectacle with the arrival of Universal Spectacle Night Parade.
This stunning parade brings your favourite movie characters to life with lit-up floats, captivating music, and special effects. You can see the amazing transformation of park buildings and structures into iconic movie sets, and feel the energy of the crowds as Minions, dinosaurs, and superheroes march around.
Even after the parade, the excitement continues with thrilling night time rides and vibrant street entertainment.
7 pm –8 pm: Dinner
Some great dining options at walkable distance from Universal Studios Japan, Osaka, are: Kinopio's Cafe, Three Broomsticks, Parkside Grill, Fujinraijin, Discovery Restaurant, etc.
Day 3
9:30am: Travel to Osaka Castle
The first thing to cover today is the Osaka Castle. Standing tall as a symbol of power and unification, Osaka Castle played a pivotal role in Japan's 16th and 17th century history.
How to Reach: Take the Sumiyoshishako-mae line
Get down at Osakajo-Otemae
It's about 12-min walk to Osaka Castle
10:30am: Go for an Osaka Castle tour
On this tour you can witness the site of the epic 1614-1615 Osaka Battle, a turning point that solidified the Tokugawa Shogunate's rule. You can also delve deeper into Osaka's rich past. The surrounding park boasts historical remains, telling tales of bygone eras.
Immerse yourself in a comprehensive journey through time at the nearby Osaka Museum of History, showcasing the city's evolution from its inception to the present day.
Then, take a short trip back to the 7th century by visiting the remains of the Naniwa Palace, a testament to Osaka's long and fascinating history.
Osaka offers more than just a modern metropolis. Explore the captivating history that unfolds within the walls of Osaka Castle and venture beyond to discover the city's ancient soul.
4:30pm: Travel to Expo City
Spend your evening in the world of 'edutainment' at Expo City, Osaka.
How to Reach: Walk to Morinomiya Station (5-min walk)
Take the Tanimachi Line
Get down at Senri Chuo Station
Get on the Osaka Monorail
Get down at the final stop, Bampaku-kinen-koen Station
Exit the station to enter Expo City
6:00pm: Explore Expo City
This sprawling entertainment complex, located near the iconic Banpaku Memorial Park, offers something for everyone.
Thrill-seekers can enjoy heights on the Redhorse Ferris Wheel, currently Japan's tallest.
Families can bond over interactive experiences at the "Living Museum" - NIFREL, or explore the wonders of the sea at Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium (located just next door).
Foodies here can satisfy their taste buds at LaLaport Expocity, a massive shopping mall brimming with international and local restaurants. Expo City promises an unforgettable experience for the entire family.
7:00pm: Dinner at Expo City
Eat dinner in one of the many family-friendly restaurants before heading back to your accommodation.
A Teaser for a Longer Holiday
Osaka's magic unfolds beautifully over just three days but leaves you wanting more. In these three days, immerse yourself in a vibrant tale of history and culture, from the imposing Osaka Castle to the electrifying neon lights of Dotonbori.
Whether your taste buds crave savoury street food or your heart races for theme park thrills at Universal Studios Japan; whether there is an insatiable shopaholic in you or a child at heart craving some LEGO fun, Osaka caters to every single desire.
Commonly Asked Questions
What's the best time to visit Osaka?
Generally, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures for exploring.
What are some must-try foods in Osaka?
Osaka is a haven for foodies! Don't miss classics like okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), takoyaki (octopus balls), and yakisoba (fried noodles).
Which is the best place to try Osaka delicacies?
Dotonbori district is a great place to explore Osaka's classic street food options.
What's Osaka's nightlife scene like?
The city is known for its lively nightlife. Dotonbori district transforms into a neon-lit wonderland after dark, with countless bars, restaurants, and karaoke spots to explore.