Lots 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 lots to supply to vacationers. Together with that, vacationers additionally usually 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 fashionable vibe. It’s identified for its avenue markets, leisure districts, and a haven for meals lovers. In the meantime, Kyoto transports vacationers to a extra old style world that showcases Japan’s heritage. You possibly can discover historic temples, go to conventional teahouses, and spend time in gorgeous gardens. With a mix of outdated and new, these two locations will certainly offer you an unforgettable journey.
And in the event you’re planning a visit to Osaka and Kyoto, we’ll share with you widespread errors vacationers commit so you’ll be able to keep away from them. We even have a separate article the place we listing down the journey planning dos and don’ts and social fake pas or issues which are thought of impolite and disrespectful in Japan.
Osaka & Kyoto Journey Errors
1. Dangerous Timing and Huge Crowds
Kansai area is undoubtedly certainly one of Japan’s hottest locations, and it’s no shock that lots of its iconic websites get actually crowded, particularly on weekends and through peak seasons. For those who’re visiting well-known spots in Osaka and Kyoto like Osaka Citadel, Common Studios Japan, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu-dera, you’ll be able to anticipate giant crowds in the event you don’t plan forward.
The trick to beating the crowds is easy: stand up early! The sooner you arrive, the less individuals you’ll encounter. Because the day goes on, extra guests flood the sights. So, if you wish to bag that excellent Instagram shot with out photobombers, set your alarm and get there earlier than everybody else.
That stated, 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 the event you stroll additional into the positioning, it’s a lot quieter. At Osaka Citadel, 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 the event you can keep away from these days, attempt to go to on a Wednesday or Thursday for a extra relaxed expertise. For those who can’t assist however go to on these peak days, attempt to get there early and hit the Harry Potter sights first, as these are likely to have the longest strains.
Nonetheless, not each crowded spot is a dealbreaker. For locations like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, we truly benefit from the vitality 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 energetic ambiance!
2. Dismissing Osaka Superb Move
For those who’re visiting Osaka for the primary time, the Osaka Superb Move is an absolute must-have! This all-inclusive sightseeing cross is available in 1-day and 2-day variations, and it’s filled with worth. Observe: For those who go for the 2-day cross, maintain it thoughts that it must be used on two consecutive days.
With the Osaka Superb Move, you’ll get limitless entry to the subway, tramway, and bus methods in Osaka, which is ideal for exploring town with out worrying about transport prices. However what makes this cross much more price it’s the free entry to many main sights, together with the long-lasting Osaka Citadel Essential Tower, the Umeda Constructing’s Floating Backyard Observatory, HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, Tombori River Cruise, Dotonbori Tour, and extra.
The 1-day cross prices round JPY 3500 (P1333), whereas the 2-day model is priced at JPY 5000 (P1905). It’s an ideal 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 Citadel Museum additionally fees JPY 600. For those who plan on visiting these three sights, you’d be spending JPY 4100! However with the Osaka Superb Move, you get all of that plus limitless transportation, making it a serious bang to your buck.
You will get the Osaka Superb Move right here!
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3. Utilizing the Flawed Move
Apart from the Osaka Superb Move, the Kansai Area affords a number of different vacationer passes, every catering to completely different journey wants. The perfect cross for you actually depends upon your itinerary, so let’s break it down a bit. Every cross has its nuances, so it’s essential to decide on one which matches your journey plans.
For those who’re primarily staying inside Osaka Metropolis, the Osaka Superb Move is your finest guess. However in the event you’re exploring past town, including different passes just like the JR West Kansai or Kansai WIDE Move might assist you maximize your time and funds. For a clearer image, seek advice from the desk beneath to see which cross matches finest together with your itinerary.
For those who’re solely planning to discover the Kansai Area, which incorporates cities like Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and extra, the JR West Kansai Space Move is a good possibility. It is available in 1 to 4-day variations, however remember the fact that the utilization days have to be consecutive. This cross is ideal if many of the locations you wish to go to are close to JR stations, because it solely works on JR Traces.
Nonetheless, in case your goal locations are largely alongside non-JR strains resembling Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, or Keihan, the Kansai Railway Move (previously referred to as the Kansai Through Move) is the higher selection. It covers nearly the identical areas because the JR cross, however the main benefit is that you just don’t should apply it to consecutive days, making it extra versatile to your itinerary.
For those who’re planning a day journey or a two-day go to to Kyoto from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Move is an effective selection. It really works on Keihan Traces, 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 succeed in that space. Nonetheless, with this cross, you’ll be able to 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 Move is the higher possibility. This cross additionally works for touring to Kobe, making it a handy selection in the event you’re planning to go to each cities in in the future. Nonetheless, in case your itinerary consists of Okayama, Tottori, and even Takamatsu, then you definately’ll want the JR West Kansai Huge Space Move (emphasis on WIDE), which covers a much wider space.
There are many different passes out there, and now we have a separate article the place we focus on them in additional element. The passes are positively price it, however since every one has its limitations, it’s uncommon to discover a single cross 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 just actually wish to go to however isn’t lined by your cross, simply purchase a separate ticket. In spite of everything, you’re already in Japan, so benefit from your journey and go wherever your coronary heart takes you!
4. Complicated Practice Stations
Many practice stations in Osaka have similar-sounding names however are operated by completely different railway firms and serve various kinds of trains. This may be actually complicated, particularly while you’re in a rush or navigating by means of crowded areas.
Take Namba, for instance. There are three predominant 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 the event you’re in a rush and go to the incorrect station, you would possibly miss your practice.
One other widespread mix-up occurs between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station. Regardless of their related names, these are two utterly completely different stations, and so they’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.
You probably have a bullet practice to catch, be sure 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 in depth practice networks, and most sights are simply accessible by practice. Nonetheless, not all websites have practice stations close by. In Kyoto particularly, a few of the most essential landmarks are finest accessed by bus quite 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 best ways to succeed in 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 website 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. For those who’d quite 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. When you nonetheless should 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 sights to take pleasure in. For those who’re coming from Kyoto Station, take Bus #206 or Bus #86 to succeed in Gojozaka.
Utilizing Kyoto’s metropolis buses is sort of easy. Most buses have two doorways: one on the entrance, close to the motive force and one other on the again or center. Sometimes, you board by means of the rear door. Most buses cost a flat fare, so that you don’t must faucet your IC card or take a ticket when boarding. If you’re able to get off, exit by means of the entrance door, the place you’ll pay utilizing an IC card or money. Observe: For those who select to pay in money, be sure 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 are able to inform you is that the doorways open robotically, 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 tremendous. The practice system right here is in depth and dependable, making it simple to get round. Nonetheless, every district has its personal professionals and cons, so selecting the best space depends upon your journey plans.
As talked about earlier, Osaka is the standard base for vacationers exploring the area. Listed below 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 take into account this space the center of Osaka, particularly when it comes to transportation and buying. For those who 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? Accommodations right here are usually dearer because of the prime location. Nonetheless, in the event you discover the interior components of the district, you’ll be able to nonetheless discover some reasonably priced lodging.
If you’re planning to remain on this space, listed here are a few of the top-rated properties in accordance with on-line consumer opinions.
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, avenue meals, and nightlife, ebook a resort on this space. Minami Ward can be a transportation hub, with a number of practice stations and the Osaka Metropolis Air Terminal (OCAT), the place you’ll be able to catch buses to different prefectures like Tottori or Hiroshima.
If you’re planning to remain on this space, listed here are a few of the top-rated properties in accordance with on-line consumer opinions.
Close to Shin-Osaka Station
For those who 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 Lodge, simply a few blocks from Shin-Osaka Station, and had an ideal expertise. The realm is quiet, however there are many comfort shops or konbini and fast-food eating places close by, making it a sensible possibility for vacationers.
If you’re planning to remain on this space, listed here are a few of the top-rated properties in accordance with on-line consumer opinions.
Seek for extra Osaka Accommodations!
7. Standing on the Left on the Escalator
In Japan, there’s an unwritten rule relating to utilizing escalators, and it differs by area. In most components of Japan, together with Tokyo, individuals stand on the left aspect, leaving the correct aspect open for individuals who wish to stroll or overtake. Nonetheless, in Kansai Area, it’s the other — individuals stand on the RIGHT aspect, and those that wish 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 response to an article from nikkei.com, organizers adopted the worldwide normal of standing on the correct for escalator etiquette, and the follow has continued in Kansai ever since. Whereas some query whether or not that is the true purpose, what’s essential is that in most of Kansai area, individuals usually stand on the correct when utilizing an escalator.
Nonetheless, 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 might be complicated as a result of some individuals stand on the left whereas others stand on the correct. This may be because of the giant variety of vacationers from completely different areas, resulting in combined practices.
To keep away from making errors, the very best method is to look at the individuals round you while you step onto an escalator. The aim of this etiquette is to maintain one aspect open for individuals who must stroll or are in a rush. So, if everyone seems to be standing on the correct, do the identical. In the event that they’re standing on the left, comply with swimsuit. This manner, you’ll be able to mix in seamlessly and keep away from blocking people who find themselves dashing.
8. Not Exploring Wider and Additional
We’ve talked about earlier that almost all vacationers are likely to flock to a particular spot of a website. For instance, in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a variety 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 ideal place to take pleasure in some peace, however on the identical time, we are able to’t assist however suppose that many vacationers are lacking out on seeing this essential historic website.
Past the temple, Arashiyama has much more to supply. The Togetsukyo Bridge is a scenic landmark price visiting, whereas Nonomiya Shrine and Horinji Temple provide further cultural experiences. You may also 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. For those who’re fortunate, you would possibly 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 particular person, which could really feel a bit dear, however the expertise is effectively price it.
Equally, in the event you go to Osaka Citadel, many guests solely keep outdoors to take pictures. Whereas that’s not essentially a mistake, coming into the citadel is extremely advisable. Inside, you’ll discover displays showcasing Osaka’s wealthy historical past, and it provides you a deeper appreciation of the landmark past simply its gorgeous exterior. The doorway charge is JPY 600, however when you’ve got the Osaka Superb Move, entry is FREE.
And when you’ve got extra time and funds, don’t restrict your self to only 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 wonderful locations. Take into account exploring Kobe, Himeji, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, and Mie. For those who’ve been to Osaka a number of occasions, attempting out these less-visited cities gives you a recent perspective on Kansai’s numerous magnificence.
9. Limiting Your Meals Choices to Konbini and Quick Meals
Japan is a type of international locations the place comfort shops and supermarkets provide an abundance of scrumptious and reasonably priced meals. You’ll discover pre-cooked meals that aren’t solely budget-friendly but additionally surprisingly tasty. Nonetheless, 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 spite of everything, 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 should be sophisticated. Generally, all it takes is opening your Google Maps app to find a implausible native restaurant close to your resort. This manner, you’ll be able to totally respect Japan’s wealthy meals tradition. For those who’ve had your fill of ramen, strive switching issues up with a bowl of udon or soba. And whereas takoyaki is a must-try Osaka avenue meals, don’t cease there. Step into an okonomiyaki restaurant to expertise why it’s an Osaka icon and learn the way Kyoto’s betayaki and negiyaki differ from Osaka’s model.
For those who’re in search of 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. In reality, we make it a degree to go to nearly 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.
For those who’re visiting throughout summer season, significantly in July or August, put on gentle, breathable clothes to remain snug, particularly in the event you plan on exploring the outside. The warmth and humidity might be intense, so dressing appropriately will assist you take pleasure in your journey with out feeling overwhelmed by the climate.
For a winter journey, correct outerwear is important, particularly in the event you plan on mountain climbing or snowboarding. There are lots of varieties of jackets, and the very best one depends upon your chilly tolerance and luxury stage. You probably have a excessive tolerance for the chilly, it’s possible you’ll not want too many layers. Nonetheless, in the event you’re somebody who will get chilly even from air-con, anticipate that you just would possibly want a puffer jacket together with warmth tech innerwear.
For those who’re exploring 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 troublesome to take away can turn out to be inconvenient when always transferring between the chilly outdoor and heat indoor areas. Dressing well for the season ensures you keep snug and benefit from your Kansai journey!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-obligatory, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey might be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of surprising delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, take into account PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced fee.
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2025 5 10 – First uploaded