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 loads 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 recognized 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 historical temples, go to conventional teahouses, and spend time in gorgeous gardens. With a mix of previous and new, these two locations will certainly offer you an unforgettable journey.
And should 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 might be 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 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’ll be able to anticipate massive crowds should 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 necessary 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 should you stroll additional into the positioning, it’s a lot quieter. At Osaka Fort, there are hidden spots that many overlook, making for excellent photograph alternatives with out the crowds.
Common Studios Japan is infamous for being packed, with lengthy wait instances, particularly on weekends. However do you know that faculty discipline journeys are sometimes scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays? So, should 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 sights first, as these are inclined to have the longest traces.
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 attraction 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 Cross
Should you’re visiting Osaka for the primary time, the Osaka Superb Cross is an absolute must-have! This all-inclusive sightseeing go is available in 1-day and 2-day variations, and it’s filled with worth. Notice: Should you go for the 2-day go, maintain it thoughts that it must be used on two consecutive days.
With the Osaka Superb Cross, 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 go much more value it’s the free entry to many main sights, 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 go prices round JPY 3500 (P1333), whereas the 2-day model is priced at JPY 5000 (P1905). It’s an incredible 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 sights, you’d be spending JPY 4100! However with the Osaka Superb Cross, you get all of that plus limitless transportation, making it a serious bang on your buck.
You may get the Osaka Superb Cross right here!
✅ GET OSAKA AMAZING PASS HERE!
3. Utilizing the Improper Cross
Apart from the Osaka Superb Cross, the Kansai Area provides a number of different vacationer passes, every catering to completely different journey wants. The most effective go for you actually is determined by your itinerary, so let’s break it down a bit. Every go has its nuances, so it’s necessary to decide on one which matches your journey plans.
Should you’re primarily staying inside Osaka Metropolis, the Osaka Superb Cross is your finest guess. However should you’re exploring past town, including different passes just like the JR West Kansai or Kansai WIDE Cross may make it easier to maximize your time and price range. For a clearer image, consult with the desk beneath to see which go matches finest along 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 Cross is a superb possibility. It is available in 1 to 4-day variations, however take into account that the utilization days have to be consecutive. This go is ideal if a lot of the locations you need to go to are close to JR stations, because it solely works on JR Strains.
Nonetheless, in case your goal locations are largely alongside non-JR traces reminiscent of Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, or Keihan, the Kansai Railway Cross (previously often called the Kansai Via Cross) is the higher selection. It covers nearly the identical areas because the JR go, however the main benefit is that you simply don’t must apply it to consecutive days, making it extra versatile on your itinerary.
Should you’re planning a day journey or a two-day go to to Kyoto from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Cross is an efficient 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 succeed in that space. Nonetheless, with this go, 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 Cross is the higher possibility. This go additionally works for touring to Kobe, making it a handy selection should you’re planning to go to each cities in at some point. Nonetheless, in case your itinerary contains Okayama, Tottori, and even Takamatsu, you then’ll want the JR West Kansai Broad Space Cross (emphasis on WIDE), which covers a much wider space.
There are many different passes accessible, and we’ve a separate article the place we focus on them in additional element. The passes are positively value it, however since each has its limitations, it’s uncommon to discover a single go 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 go, simply purchase a separate ticket. In spite of everything, you’re already in Japan, so profit 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 corporations and serve various kinds of trains. This may be actually complicated, particularly whenever you’re in a rush or navigating by way of crowded areas.
Take Namba, for instance. There are three primary 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 should you’re in a rush and go to the unsuitable station, you may miss your practice.
One other widespread mix-up occurs between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station. Regardless of their comparable names, these are two utterly completely 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.
In case you have a bullet practice to catch, make certain to go to Shin-Osaka Station. And when you’re there, keep in mind that the Shinkansen has its personal separate entrance, so verify the indicators fastidiously 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, among the most necessary 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. The easiest way 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 web site that’s removed from the practice traces is Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The closest practice station, Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line), is a 25-minute stroll away. Should you’d quite minimize that point in half, take a bus as a substitute. The closest bus cease, Gojozaka, is barely a 12-minute stroll from the temple. When you nonetheless must stroll uphill, it’s a lot shorter than coming from the practice station. Plus, the Higashiyama district alongside the way in which has a number of sights to take pleasure in. Should you’re coming from Kyoto Station, take Bus #206 or Bus #86 to succeed in Gojozaka.
Utilizing Kyoto’s metropolis buses is kind of easy. Most buses have two doorways: one on the entrance, close to the driving 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 must faucet your IC card or take a ticket when boarding. If you’re able to get off, exit by way of the entrance door, the place you’ll pay utilizing an IC card or money. Notice: Should you select to pay in money, make certain to have the precise quantity, as no change is given.
If the bus has just one door, all the time 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 let you know is that the doorways open mechanically, which is fairly cool!
6. Staying within the Improper Space
Osaka and Kyoto provide many nice districts for vacationers, and generally, so long as your lodging is close to a practice station within the metropolis heart, you’ll be high quality. The practice system right here is in depth and dependable, making it simple to get round. Nonetheless, every district has its personal execs and cons, so selecting the best space is determined by your journey plans.
As talked about earlier, Osaka is the same old 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 residence to Osaka Station and Umeda Station, two of the busiest and most well-connected stations within the area. Many think about 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 typically costlier because of the prime location. Nonetheless, should you discover the inside elements of the district, you’ll be able to nonetheless discover some inexpensive lodging.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed here are among the top-rated properties based on on-line person critiques.
Minami Ward
One other improbable 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 lodge 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’ll be able to catch buses to different prefectures like Tottori or Hiroshima.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed here are among the top-rated properties based on on-line person critiques.
Close to Shin-Osaka Station
Should you plan to take the Shinkansen or bullet practice a number of instances and use Osaka as your base, staying close to Shin-Osaka Station is a great selection. On a latest journey, we stayed at APA Resort, simply a few blocks from Shin-Osaka Station, and had an incredible 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.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed here are among the top-rated properties based on 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 relation to utilizing escalators, and it differs by area. In most elements of Japan, together with Tokyo, individuals stand on the left aspect, leaving the proper aspect open for individuals who need to stroll or overtake. Nonetheless, in Kansai Area, it’s the alternative — individuals stand on the RIGHT aspect, 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 customary of standing on the proper for escalator etiquette, and the observe has continued in Kansai ever since. Whereas some query whether or not that is the actual cause, what’s necessary is that in most of Kansai area, individuals usually stand on the proper when utilizing an escalator.
Nonetheless, Kyoto is one notable exception. In contrast to the remainder of Kansai, locals in Kyoto want to face on the LEFT, like in Tokyo. However in actuality, escalator etiquette in Kyoto Station may be complicated as a result of some individuals stand on the left whereas others stand on the proper. This may be because of the massive variety of vacationers from completely different areas, resulting in combined practices.
To keep away from making errors, one of the best method is to look at the individuals round you whenever 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 proper, do the identical. In the event that they’re standing on the left, observe go well with. This manner, you’ll be able to 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 inclined to flock to a particular spot of a web site. For instance, in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, numerous 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 incredible place to take pleasure in some peace, however on the identical time, we will’t assist however assume that many vacationers are lacking out on seeing this necessary 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 further cultural experiences. It’s also possible to embark on a yakatabune boat tour, which takes you on a serene experience 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 expensive, however the expertise is properly value it.
Equally, should you go to Osaka Fort, many guests solely keep outdoors to take images. Whereas that’s not essentially a mistake, coming into the citadel is very really useful. Inside, you’ll discover reveals showcasing Osaka’s wealthy historical past, and it provides you a deeper appreciation of the landmark past simply its gorgeous exterior. The doorway price is JPY 600, however when you’ve got the Osaka Superb Cross, 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 improbable, however in addition they function jump-off factors to different wonderful locations. Contemplate exploring Kobe, Himeji, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, and Mie. Should you’ve been to Osaka a number of instances, attempting out these less-visited cities offers you a recent perspective on Kansai’s various magnificence.
9. Limiting Your Meals Choices to Konbini and Quick Meals
Japan is a kind of international locations 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. Nonetheless, whereas it’s tempting to depend on these choices, it’s necessary to discover a steadiness 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 must be sophisticated. Generally, all it takes is opening your Google Maps app to find a improbable native restaurant close to your lodge. This manner, you’ll be able to absolutely admire Japan’s wealthy meals tradition. Should you’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 road 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.
Should you’re on the lookout for a extremely really useful 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 overlook 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.
Should you’re visiting throughout summer time, notably in July or August, put on mild, breathable clothes to remain comfy, particularly should you plan on exploring the outside. The warmth and humidity may be intense, so dressing appropriately will make it easier to take pleasure in your journey with out feeling overwhelmed by the climate.
For a winter journey, correct outerwear is important, particularly should you plan on mountain climbing or snowboarding. There are numerous forms of jackets, and one of the best one is determined by your chilly tolerance and luxury stage. In case you have a excessive tolerance for the chilly, you could not want too many layers. Nonetheless, should you’re somebody who will get chilly even from air con, anticipate that you simply may want a puffer jacket together with warmth tech innerwear.
Should you’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 change into inconvenient when continually transferring between the chilly outdoor and heat indoor areas. Dressing neatly for the season ensures you keep comfy and profit from your Kansai journey!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey may be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, think about PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You’ll be able to GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive price.
Updates Log
2025 5 10 – First uploaded
