A lot of those that journey to Japan for the primary time go to Osaka. It serves as the first gateway to Kansai Area and it has rather a lot to supply to vacationers. Together with that, vacationers additionally typically go to Kyoto on the identical journey since it’s Osaka’s neighboring metropolis. These two neighboring cities make for a really colourful Japan journey.
Osaka has a vibrant and trendy vibe. It’s identified for its road markets, leisure districts, and a haven for meals lovers. In the meantime, Kyoto transports vacationers to a extra old school world that showcases Japan’s heritage. You’ll be able to discover historic temples, go to conventional teahouses, and spend time in beautiful gardens. With a mix of previous and new, these two locations will certainly provide you with an unforgettable journey.
And in case you’re planning a visit to Osaka and Kyoto, we’ll share with you frequent errors vacationers commit so you possibly can keep away from them. We even have a separate article the place we record down the journey planning dos and don’ts and social fake pas or issues which can be thought of impolite and disrespectful in Japan.
Osaka & Kyoto Journey Errors
1. Unhealthy Timing and Large Crowds
Kansai area is undoubtedly one in all Japan’s hottest locations, and it’s no shock that a lot of its iconic websites get actually crowded, particularly on weekends and through peak seasons. Should you’re visiting well-known spots in Osaka and Kyoto like Osaka Fort, Common Studios Japan, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu-dera, you possibly can count on massive crowds in case you don’t plan forward.
The trick to beating the crowds is straightforward: rise up early! The sooner you arrive, the less individuals you’ll encounter. Because the day goes on, extra guests flood the points of interest. So, if you wish to bag that excellent Instagram shot with out photobombers, set your alarm and get there earlier than everybody else.
That mentioned, it’s additionally essential to keep in mind that most guests have a tendency to stay to particular areas of those websites. For instance, at Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, crowds collect close to the doorway, however in case you stroll additional into the positioning, it’s a lot quieter. At Osaka Fort, there are hidden spots that many overlook, making for excellent picture alternatives with out the crowds.
Common Studios Japan is infamous for being packed, with lengthy wait occasions, particularly on weekends. However do you know that college area journeys are usually scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays? So, in case you can keep away from these days, attempt to go to on a Wednesday or Thursday for a extra relaxed expertise. Should you can’t assist however go to on these peak days, attempt to get there early and hit the Harry Potter points of interest first, as these are likely to have the longest strains.
Nevertheless, not each crowded spot is a dealbreaker. For locations like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, we really benefit from the power that comes with a little bit of crowd. The festive vibe provides to the appeal of those bustling districts, so don’t stress if there are individuals round — simply soak all of it in and benefit from the full of life ambiance!
2. Dismissing Osaka Superb Go
Should you’re visiting Osaka for the primary time, the Osaka Superb Go is an absolute must-have! This all-inclusive sightseeing move is available in 1-day and 2-day variations, and it’s filled with worth. Be aware: Should you go for the 2-day move, hold it thoughts that it must be used on two consecutive days.
With the Osaka Superb Go, you’ll get limitless entry to the subway, tramway, and bus methods in Osaka, which is ideal for exploring the town with out worrying about transport prices. However what makes this move much more value it’s the free entry to many main points of interest, together with the enduring Osaka Fort Essential Tower, the Umeda Constructing’s Floating Backyard Observatory, HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, Tombori River Cruise, Dotonbori Tour, and extra.
The 1-day move prices round JPY 3500 (P1333), whereas the 2-day model is priced at JPY 5000 (P1905). It’s an amazing deal, particularly when you think about that simply the ticket for the Umeda Sky Constructing Observatory alone is JPY 2000, and the Tombori River Cruise prices JPY 1500. The Osaka Fort Museum additionally costs JPY 600. Should you plan on visiting these three points of interest, you’d be spending JPY 4100! However with the Osaka Superb Go, you get all of that plus limitless transportation, making it a serious bang to your buck.
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3. Utilizing the Flawed Go
Apart from the Osaka Superb Go, the Kansai Area gives a number of different vacationer passes, every catering to totally different journey wants. The very best move for you actually is determined by your itinerary, so let’s break it down a bit. Every move has its nuances, so it’s essential to decide on one which matches your journey plans.
Should you’re primarily staying inside Osaka Metropolis, the Osaka Superb Go is your finest guess. However in case you’re exploring past the town, including different passes just like the JR West Kansai or Kansai WIDE Go might make it easier to maximize your time and price range. For a clearer image, consult with the desk under to see which move suits finest together with your itinerary.
Should you’re solely planning to discover the Kansai Area, which incorporates cities like Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and extra, the JR West Kansai Space Go is a good choice. It is available in 1 to 4-day variations, however remember that the utilization days have to be consecutive. This move is ideal if many of the locations you need to go to are close to JR stations, because it solely works on JR Strains.
Nevertheless, in case your goal locations are principally alongside non-JR strains comparable to Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, or Keihan, the Kansai Railway Go (previously generally known as the Kansai Via Go) is the higher selection. It covers virtually the identical areas because the JR move, however the main benefit is that you simply don’t need to apply it to consecutive days, making it extra versatile to your itinerary.
Should you’re planning a day journey or a two-day go to to Kyoto from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Go is an effective selection. It really works on Keihan Strains, which join Osaka and Kyoto. The draw back is that there’s no Keihan station close to Arashiyama, so that you’d want to purchase a separate ticket to achieve that space. Nevertheless, with this move, you possibly can simply go to Gion District and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Now, if Arashiyama is a must-visit for you and also you’re coming from Osaka, then the Hankyu-Hanshin One-Day Go is the higher choice. This move additionally works for touring to Kobe, making it a handy selection in case you’re planning to go to each cities in someday. Nevertheless, in case your itinerary contains Okayama, Tottori, and even Takamatsu, you then’ll want the JR West Kansai Vast Space Go (emphasis on WIDE), which covers a much wider space.
There are many different passes obtainable, and now we have a separate article the place we talk about them in additional element. The passes are positively value it, however since each has its limitations, it’s uncommon to discover a single move that covers each attraction in your itinerary. With this in thoughts, don’t let the passes dictate your journey. If there’s a spot that you simply actually need to go to however isn’t lined by your move, simply purchase a separate ticket. In any case, you’re already in Japan, so profit from your journey and go wherever your coronary heart takes you!
4. Complicated Prepare Stations
Many practice stations in Osaka have similar-sounding names however are operated by totally different railway corporations and serve various kinds of trains. This may be actually complicated, particularly once you’re in a rush or navigating by way of crowded areas.
Take Namba, for instance. There are three most important stations right here:
- Namba Station: served by Nankai Railway and Osaka Subway
- JR Namba Station: operated by JR West
- Osaka Namba Station: serviced by Kintetsu and Hanshin Railways
On a map, these stations appear to be proper subsequent to one another, however in actuality, they’re fairly far aside. Strolling from one to a different takes time, and in case you’re in a rush and go to the flawed station, you may miss your practice.
One other frequent mix-up occurs between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station. Regardless of their comparable names, these are two fully totally different stations, they usually’re not shut to one another. The important thing distinction? Shin-Osaka Station serves Shinkansen or bullet practice, whereas Osaka Station doesn’t. The phrase “shin” means “new” in Japanese, and on this case, Shin-Osaka is the newer station.
When you’ve got a bullet practice to catch, be certain that to go to Shin-Osaka Station. And when you’re there, keep in mind that the Shinkansen has its personal separate entrance, so examine the indicators rigorously and enter the right gate.
5. Sticking to Trains and Taxis
Osaka and Kyoto have intensive practice networks, and most points of interest are simply accessible by practice. Nevertheless, not all websites have practice stations close by. In Kyoto particularly, a number of the most essential landmarks are finest accessed by bus somewhat than by practice.
Two UNESCO World Heritage Websites in Kyoto are removed from practice stations. The primary is the Golden Pavilion or Kinkaku-ji Temple, which isn’t alongside any main practice line. One of the simplest ways to achieve it from Kyoto Station is by taking Bus #205 from the B3 bus terminal in entrance of the station. REMINDER! Simply watch out to not board the RAPID 205 bus, because it doesn’t cease close to the temple.
One other main web site that’s removed from the practice strains is Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The closest practice station, Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line), is a 25-minute stroll away. Should you’d somewhat reduce that point in half, take a bus as a substitute. The closest bus cease, Gojozaka, is simply a 12-minute stroll from the temple. Whilst you nonetheless need to stroll uphill, it’s a lot shorter than coming from the practice station. Plus, the Higashiyama district alongside the way in which has a lot of points of interest to get pleasure from. Should you’re coming from Kyoto Station, take Bus #206 or Bus #86 to achieve Gojozaka.
Utilizing Kyoto’s metropolis buses is kind of easy. Most buses have two doorways: one on the entrance, close to the motive force and one other on the again or center. Usually, you board by way of the rear door. Most buses cost a flat fare, so that you don’t have to faucet your IC card or take a ticket when boarding. While you’re able to get off, exit by way of the entrance door, the place you’ll pay utilizing an IC card or money. Be aware: Should you select to pay in money, be certain that to have the precise quantity, as no change is given.
If the bus has just one door, at all times let passengers exit first earlier than you board.
As for taxis, we haven’t tried taking one in Osaka or Kyoto as a result of they’re costly. The one factor we will inform you is that the doorways open routinely, which is fairly cool!
6. Staying within the Flawed Space
Osaka and Kyoto provide many nice districts for vacationers, and basically, so long as your lodging is close to a practice station within the metropolis heart, you’ll be fantastic. The practice system right here is intensive and dependable, making it simple to get round. Nevertheless, every district has its personal professionals and cons, so choosing the proper space is determined by your journey plans.
As talked about earlier, Osaka is the standard base for vacationers exploring the area. Listed here are the favored areas:
Kita Ward
Kita Ward (North Ward) is a best choice for vacationers. This district is house to Osaka Station and Umeda Station, two of the busiest and most well-connected stations within the area. Many contemplate this space the guts of Osaka, particularly when it comes to transportation and buying. Should you plan to go to Kyoto, Kobe, or Nara, staying in Kita Ward is right as a result of these locations are simply accessible from right here. Plus, long-distance buses to Tokyo additionally depart from this space. The draw back? Inns right here are usually dearer because of the prime location. Nevertheless, in case you discover the interior elements of the district, you possibly can nonetheless discover some inexpensive lodging.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in accordance with on-line person critiques.
Minami Ward
One other implausible space is Minami Ward (South Ward), which incorporates Namba and Dotonbori, two of probably the most vibrant and tourist-friendly areas in Osaka. If you wish to be near Dotonbori’s neon lights, road meals, and nightlife, e book a resort on this space. Minami Ward can also be a transportation hub, with a number of practice stations and the Osaka Metropolis Air Terminal (OCAT), the place you possibly can catch buses to different prefectures like Tottori or Hiroshima.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in accordance with on-line person critiques.
Close to Shin-Osaka Station
Should you plan to take the Shinkansen or bullet practice a number of occasions and use Osaka as your base, staying close to Shin-Osaka Station is a brilliant selection. On a latest journey, we stayed at APA Resort, simply a few blocks from Shin-Osaka Station, and had an amazing expertise. The realm is quiet, however there are many comfort shops or konbini and fast-food eating places close by, making it a sensible choice for vacationers.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in accordance with on-line person critiques.
Seek for extra Osaka Inns!
7. Standing on the Left on the Escalator
In Japan, there’s an unwritten rule in terms of utilizing escalators, and it differs by area. In most elements of Japan, together with Tokyo, individuals stand on the left facet, leaving the suitable facet open for many who need to stroll or overtake. Nevertheless, in Kansai Area, it’s the other — individuals stand on the RIGHT facet, and people who need to stroll or overtake use the left.
The origin of this regional distinction is unsure, however one concept means that it dates again to the Osaka Expo in 1970. In keeping with an article from nikkei.com, organizers adopted the worldwide normal of standing on the suitable for escalator etiquette, and the observe has continued in Kansai ever since. Whereas some query whether or not that is the true motive, what’s essential is that in most of Kansai area, individuals usually stand on the suitable when utilizing an escalator.
Nevertheless, Kyoto is one notable exception. In contrast to the remainder of Kansai, locals in Kyoto desire to face on the LEFT, like in Tokyo. However in actuality, escalator etiquette in Kyoto Station could be complicated as a result of some individuals stand on the left whereas others stand on the suitable. This may be because of the massive variety of vacationers from totally different areas, resulting in combined practices.
To keep away from making errors, the perfect strategy is to watch the individuals round you once you step onto an escalator. The aim of this etiquette is to maintain one facet open for many who have to stroll or are in a rush. So, if everyone seems to be standing on the suitable, do the identical. In the event that they’re standing on the left, observe swimsuit. This manner, you possibly can mix in seamlessly and keep away from blocking people who find themselves speeding.
8. Not Exploring Wider and Additional
We’ve talked about earlier that almost all vacationers are likely to flock to a selected spot of a web site. For instance, in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a whole lot of guests keep close to the doorway and don’t enterprise farther in. However there’s a lot extra to Arashiyama than simply its well-known bamboo grove.
Proper subsequent to the bamboo forest is Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. And but, each time we go to, we discover that whereas the bamboo grove is packed, the temple itself stays comparatively quiet. It’s an amazing place to get pleasure from some peace, however on the similar time, we will’t assist however suppose that many vacationers are lacking out on seeing this essential historic web site.
Past the temple, Arashiyama has much more to supply. The Togetsukyo Bridge is a scenic landmark value visiting, whereas Nonomiya Shrine and Horinji Temple provide extra cultural experiences. You too can embark on a yakatabune boat tour, which takes you on a serene trip down the Oi River. The views are breathtaking, particularly throughout autumn, when the foliage is in full show. Should you’re fortunate, you may even see a paddling of geese gliding throughout the water. The tour prices round JPY 4000 for 2 individuals, with a further JPY 1000 per further individual, which could really feel a bit dear, however the expertise is properly value it.
Equally, in case you go to Osaka Fort, many guests solely keep outdoors to take images. Whereas that’s not essentially a mistake, getting into the citadel is extremely advisable. Inside, you’ll discover displays showcasing Osaka’s wealthy historical past, and it offers you a deeper appreciation of the landmark past simply its beautiful exterior. The doorway price is JPY 600, however when you’ve got the Osaka Superb Go, entry is FREE.
And when you’ve got extra time and price range, don’t restrict your self to simply Osaka and Kyoto — particularly if it’s not your first time visiting. These cities are implausible, however additionally they function jump-off factors to different superb locations. Think about exploring Kobe, Himeji, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, and Mie. Should you’ve been to Osaka a number of occasions, attempting out these less-visited cities will provide you with a recent perspective on Kansai’s numerous magnificence.
9. Limiting Your Meals Choices to Konbini and Quick Meals
Japan is a kind of nations the place comfort shops and supermarkets provide an abundance of scrumptious and inexpensive meals. You’ll discover pre-cooked meals that aren’t solely budget-friendly but in addition surprisingly tasty. Nevertheless, whereas it’s tempting to depend on these choices, it’s essential to discover a stability between grocery retailer meals and eating at native eating places. In any case, Osaka is taken into account “Japan’s Kitchen“, and Kyoto boasts a formidable variety of Michelin-starred eating places.
Exploring Japan’s meals scene doesn’t need to be difficult. Generally, all it takes is opening your Google Maps app to find a implausible native restaurant close to your resort. This manner, you possibly can totally recognize Japan’s wealthy meals tradition. Should you’ve had your fill of ramen, attempt switching issues up with a bowl of udon or soba. And whereas takoyaki is a must-try Osaka road meals, don’t cease there. Step into an okonomiyaki restaurant to expertise why it’s an Osaka icon and find out how Kyoto’s betayaki and negiyaki differ from Osaka’s model.
Should you’re on the lookout for a extremely advisable meals spot, head to Endo Sushi close to the port. It was the primary sushi bar we ever visited in Japan, and even after a number of journeys, we nonetheless can’t neglect it. Actually, we make it a degree to go to virtually each time we’re in Osaka.
10. Underestimating the Climate
We’ve explored the Kansai Area in all 4 seasons, and the distinction is stark. We’ve skilled getting all sweaty in the summertime and have felt the biting chilly of winter, particularly when venturing past Osaka.
Should you’re visiting throughout summer season, significantly in July or August, put on mild, breathable clothes to remain snug, particularly in case you plan on exploring the outside. The warmth and humidity could be intense, so dressing appropriately will make it easier to get pleasure from your journey with out feeling overwhelmed by the climate.
For a winter journey, correct outerwear is crucial, particularly in case you plan on climbing or snowboarding. There are lots of sorts of jackets, and the perfect one is determined by your chilly tolerance and luxury degree. When you’ve got a excessive tolerance for the chilly, you might not want too many layers. Nevertheless, in case you’re somebody who will get chilly even from air-con, count on that you simply may want a puffer jacket together with warmth tech innerwear.
Should you’re exploring the town in winter, select a jacket that’s simple to take off, as trains and indoor institutions are well-heated. A cumbersome jacket that’s tough to take away can turn out to be inconvenient when continuously transferring between the chilly outdoor and heat indoor areas. Dressing neatly for the season ensures you keep snug and profit from your Kansai journey!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is elective, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey could be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it offers us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You’ll be able to GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive fee.
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2025 5 10 – First uploaded