The next two days feature two world-class attractions: Universal Studios Japan with its Wizarding World of Harry Potter and label-busting rides based on blockbuster films as well as Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, boasting one of the largest collections of aquatic life on the planet. We also ascend the Tempozan Ferris Wheel for unparalleled bay views and explore the Instant Ramen Museum to interactively uncover the history behind this Japanese culinary icon.
Venturing forth, we'll be awestruck by sprawling Fushimi Inari Shinto shrines in Kyoto, with seemingly endless tunnels of vermilion torii gates winding through the hillside. In Nara, over 1,200 deer roam freely in harmony with ancient temples like imposing Todaiji and its Great Buddha Hall housing a 15-meter-tall bronze statue. We wrap up back in Osaka for extensive modern shopping and dining at transports hubs like Grand Front Osaka and Osaka Station City.
Day 1 - Osaka
Arrive Kansai Airport & activate transit IC cards
Namba Station
- Bustling shopping complex, anime goods stores
Nipponbashi (Japan Bridge)
- "Akihabara of Osaka", otaku pop culture destination
Hotel check-in Shinsaibashi area
- Upscale shopping and dining district
Day 2 - Osaka
Universal Studios Japan
- Entire day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park rides & more
Day 3 & 4 - Osaka
Osaka Castle
- Historical fortress with museums and expansive park
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
- One of world's largest aquariums
Tempozan Harbor Village
- Panoramic bay views from the Ferris Wheel
Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum
- Interactive exhibits honoring the inventor of instant noodles
Day 5 - Kyoto Day Trip
Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Iconic orange torii gates winding through mountain trails
Kimono photo shoot
- Pose at landmarks while dressed traditionally
Day 6 - Nara Day Trip
Todaiji Temple
- Enormous wooden Daibutsuden hall housing 15m tall Great Buddha statue
Nara Park
- Over 1,200 wild sika deer roam freely, perfect for photos
Day 7 - Osaka
Osaka Station City
- Futuristic steel and glass shopping complex above the station
Grand Front Osaka
- Modern mall with international brands, food courts and displays
Rinku Duty-free Shop before leaving Osaka
- Tax-free cosmetics, Confectionery and alcohol shop
