I always thought Osaka was very expensive, until I personally came here 😅
✅ Cost details
1. Visa: Full electronic application, no need to mail a passport 💰260
2. Communication Card: Seven days unlimited traffic 💰35
3. Airfare: Spring Airlines direct from Shanghai to Osaka 💰1200 or so (including baggage allowance)
4. Accommodation: Recommended Umeda or Shinsaibashi area, four nights 💰1400. Hotels in Osaka are super good value for money, clean and comfortable, this time I used niche software to book a hotel, cheap and convenient.
5. ICOCA card: A universal transportation card for Osaka and Kansai, with a recharge of 💰2000 yen, enough to cover the public transportation costs of the entire trip. Note: Some private rail lines may require separate ticket purchase❌
6. Osaka Castle Park: Visit the Tenshu Gate (💰600 yen), a must-see for history lovers.
✅ Some suggestions
1. Accommodation preferred Umeda or Shinsaibashi, shopping, food, transportation one-stop. I used niche software this time and got cashback for every hotel booking, saving a hundred or so on a trip.
2. Compared to Tokyo, Osaka’s dining and shopping prices are more affordable, and the per capita consumption of fine restaurants can be controlled at 💰1000 - 2000 yen.
3. From Shinsaibashi to Kansai International Airport, it is most convenient to take the JR Haruka special train.
4. Universal Studios Osaka tickets must be booked online and it is recommended to buy a fast pass to avoid the weekend and holiday rush.
5. Although the restaurants in Dotonbori are very attractive, you can try the small shops in the surrounding alleys, which are often more value for money.
6. Although the Namba area is bustling, it is relatively crowded.
7. The UV rays in Osaka are strong, and sunscreen and a sun hat are a must.
8. Don’t forget your tax refund when shopping, large shopping malls and appliance stores usually offer tax refunds.
9. Pay attention to safety when traveling at night and try to choose crowded places to walk.
10. Taxi costs in Osaka are relatively high, and public transportation is recommended, with a well-developed subway and bus network.
✅ Route guide
• Day1: Osaka Castle Park - Tenshu Gate - Umeda Blue Sky Building Aerial Garden Observation Deck - Stroll in the Namba area
• Day2: Universal Studios Osaka all-day tour
• Day3: Dotonbori Food Exploration - Shinsaibashi Shopping - Kuromon Market
• Day4: Shitennoji - Nipponbashi Electric Street - Kitashinchi Experience the local nightlife
• Day5: Nara Day Trip (Additional transportation arrangements are required, early departure and evening return to Osaka are recommended)
✅ Attraction recommendations
• 📍Osaka Castle Park: Historical ruins and natural beauty blend perfectly.
• 📍Dotonbori: Osaka’s food business card, from octopus-yaki to Osaka-yaki, everything.
• 📍Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street: Shopping paradise, from high-end brands to cheap goodies, all in one.
• 📍Umeda Blue Sky Building: Aerial Garden Observation Deck, overlooking the panoramic view of Osaka, the night view is particularly charming.
• 📍Kuromon Market: A distribution center for seafood and fresh ingredients, experience authentic Japanese market life.
#OsakaTravel #OsakaStrategy #Osaka itinerary