Day 1 (10/15) - Osaka
Welcome to Japan! After touching down in Kansai, a car will take you to your accommodations as you take in your first sights of Osaka. This bustling city is like Tokyo’s younger and cooler brother. The atmosphere is a lot more laid-back and the people are some of the warmest in Japan. Take your time settling in today as you rest after a long flight, and get ready to for a fun-filled day tomorrow.
Day 2 (10/16) - Osaka
Osaka is home to one of the world's largest aquariums, and today you'll take in all that if has to offer. Its central tank spans a whopping 8 floors. You'll start at the top and gradually make your way down through corridors which all wind around this central tank. This will enable you to see all of the aquarium's sea animals from multiple different angles. During your time here you'll encounter over 580 species of sea life including its symbol - the whale shark. It really is an experience like no other. From here it's just a short walk to the Tempozan ferris wheel. At its peak you'll enjoy expansive views spanning from the Mt Ikoma in the east to the magnificent Akashi Kaikyo bridge further west. If you go up in the evening, you'll be able to take in the lights of Osaka Bay - an absolutely magical sight. For dinner, why not head to the Dotonbori area. Lined with shops and restaurants, it is a streetfood lover's dream. From okonomiyaki to takoyaki, there is no better place to experience the delicacies of local cuisine.
Day 3 (10/17) - Nara
The city of Nara is bursting with history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It used to be the capital of nation, before the Emperor and court relocated to nearby Kyoto. However, it has continued to play an important part in Japanese history and culture. One of its most popular sites is Todaiji temple. Although it has undergone several reconstructions, the original temple was founded over 1000 years ago. It is home to the world's largest Buddha statue, the Daibutsu, and serves as the headquarters of the Kegon school of Buddhism. Until 1998, its Great Buddhist Hall had the title of the largest wooden structure in the world - an impressive fest for a hall which was most recently reconstructed approximately 300 years ago! One of Nara's draws is also its free-roaming silka deer. Initially viewed as sacred animals, they are now classified as national treasures and are protected as such. They have become quite used to human presence and you can get very close to them during a visit to Nara Park!
Day 4 (10/18) - Kyoto
No visit to Japan is complete without a trip to another one of its former capitals, Kyoto, which is the best way to experience Japan’s traditional side. Arashiyama is a beautiful area just outside of the city centre through which the swift-flowing Hozugawa river meanders. You can even enjoy a traditional boat ride on it as you flow past banks lined with trees, which may just be starting to change color around the time that you visit. Tenryuji is another one of Kyoto's most important temples and boasts an ethereal bamboo grove and stunning landscape garden. Arashiyama is also a great place for souvenir shopping, with loads of little shops selling traditional Japanese items and food. Consider the rest of the day free for down-time. Whether it's shopping in Kyoto or chilling at your accommodations, the choice is yours.
Day 5 (10/19) - Osaka
Today is all about Universal Studios. This expansive theme park is one of Japan's best and most popular. Through its gates you'll find multiple worlds filled with characters from your favorite movies and games. From Super Nintendo World to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you'll be transported into a completely different universe. There are 11 areas to the park all spread across 130 acres, so you could easily spend multiple days here. However, for a flying visit one full day should be more than enough. We won't plan anything else for today to make sure you have plenty of time to explore.
Day 6 (10/20) - Osaka
On your final full day in enjoy a free morning to relax, or get in some shopping! Shinsaibashi is one of Osaka's oldest and busiest shopping areas and packed with shops and restaurants. For an insight into where the youth of Osaka like to shop, why not head to the more modern Americamura/'America Town'? After this it's onto the Osaka Cup Noodle Museum. Ramen is a staple dish in Japan. You'll be hard pressed to find a convenience store or grocery shop that doesn't sell a variety of cup noodles. As well learning the history behind this famous food, at the museum you can design and spice your very own cup noodle product. There's also a tasting room where you can experience the savor the tastes of different flavors. Finally you'll head to the Tower Of The Sun. At 70m tall; it's a work of art which has been featured in music as well as anime and manga series. This brings today's planned activities to a close. Enjoy a relaxed evening, and perhaps a dinner at one of the city's many restaurants to celebrate your time in Japan.
Day 7 (10/21) - Osaka
Your time in Japan has reached its end today. We hope you've had a fantastic time and that you've enjoyed exploring the Kansai region. Sayonara, till next time!
