The ideal number of days to spend in Osaka depends on your interests and the pace at which you'd like to explore the city. However, a general recommendation for most visitors would be 3 to 4 days. Here's a breakdown of what you can do with that time:
3 Days in Osaka:
- Day 1: Focus on iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle, Dōtonbori, and Shinsaibashi for shopping and dining. You can also visit Umeda Sky Building for panoramic city views.
- Day 2: Dedicate the day to family-friendly attractions like Universal Studios Japan or Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. If you're interested in a cultural experience, you can explore the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and visit Shinsekai.
- Day 3: Spend a day in the Osaka Bay Area or head to Namba Yasaka Shrine. You could also explore local food markets, try takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and wander through Amerikamura for some unique street culture.
4 Days in Osaka:
- Day 1-3: Follow the suggested itinerary for a 3-day visit.
- Day 4: Take the opportunity to visit lesser-known places like Tennoji Park, the historical Shitennoji Temple, or enjoy a day trip to nearby areas such as Kobe or Nara, which are easily accessible from Osaka.
If you're a foodie, love shopping, or enjoy both modern and traditional attractions, you may even want to stay an extra day.
