How to Spend 2 Amazing Days in Osaka – Complete Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, it’s more than likely Osaka is on your itinerary. Wondering how you can see it all in just 2 days? You’re in the right place! Known for its vibrant street food, friendly locals, and electric nightlife, Osaka is one of Japan’s most dynamic cities—and you can experience the best of it in just 48 hours with the right plan.

Whether you’re a foodie chasing the flavors of Dotonbori, a history buff intrigued by Osaka Castle, or just want to soak in the city’s unique energy, this 2-day itinerary will help you hit the highlights without feeling rushed. From must-visit neighborhoods to hidden gems and local eats, here’s everything you need to know to make your short stay in Osaka unforgettable.

HOW TO GET TO OSAKA

You will most likely be coming to Osaka from Tokyo or Kyoto (if you would like my full Japan Itinerary go here and if you want my Tokyo google guide go here). The most convenient way to get here if coming from these two locations if by the Shinkansen (bullet train). You can also take a flight from Tokyo to Osaka if you prefer. I have laid out the most common options below:

• Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Osaka: Takes just under 3 hours. If you’re lucky and sit on the right side of the train, you might see Mt Fuji on a clear day! I highly recommend downloading the SmartEx app and booking your tickets. You can definitely book them at the station but if you want to pick your seats I would book ahead directly on the app.
• Flight from Tokyo to Osaka: If you’re short on time or looking for a budget-friendly option, flying from Tokyo to Osaka can be a solid choice. The flight takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with multiple daily departures from Tokyo Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) airports to Osaka Itami (ITM) and Kansai International Airport (KIX). With travel time to the airport the same is about the same as the Shinkansen.
• Shinkansen (bullet train) from Kyoto to Osaka: Super quick ride from Kyoto by the bullet train if coming from Kyoto 🙂

where to stay in Osaka

• Luxury: Conrad Osaka – Skyline views & insane hospitality.
• Mid Range: Candeo Shinsaibashi – We stayed here for our 2 nights in Osaka. It was pretty standard, we had great Dontonbori views from our room. We weren’t crazy about the breakfast, they mostly catered Japanese breakfast (what can I say, I like traditional American/English breakfast). But would recommend if you don’t want to break the bank and still want to be in a great location.

Day 1 (Iconic landmarks & food)

Must Visit Places 

• Dotonbori: This is the pictures you’ve probably seen of Osaka (Glico Sign, neon streets, and street food). If we had more time and it was if it was a little warmer I would’ve loved to take the boat ride down the river 
• Osaka Castle: Take a nice morning walk to Osaka castle (deff try to get here early). We didn’t go inside because the line was super long but if you want to go in, arrive at opening. 
• Namba Yasaka Jinja Shrine: A super unique shrine. We actually go lost coming here as the map lead us to the wrong shrine, pay attention to this when visiting 
• Kuromon Ichiba Market: One of Osakas main markets with so many good food and shopping. Of course you need to try Takoyaki (Fried Octopus balls) and beef skewers
• Hozenji Temple & Hozenji Yokocho Alley: Close to the Kuromon Ichiba Market, the Hozenji Yokocho Alley has more shops and restaurants to explore, in it you can see the Hozenji Temple 

FOOD RECS

• Wagyu Idaten: Located in Osaka’s Namba area, Wagyu Idaten offers premium A5-grade beef in generous bento boxes and rice bowls. Deff have to check this place out.
• Nagomi: We stumbled upon this resturant on accident. We were looking for another place and walked in and thought this was it. A local hidden gem, we had an amazing authentic dinner here. No English speaking menu or staff but no issues at all they were absolutely fantastic.
• Ichiran Ramen – Dotonbori: Good tradition ramen, we had this in Tokyo but they also have locations in Osaka.
• Teppan Osaka: An intimate teppanyaki spot in Shinsaibashi, known for grilling premium wagyu and fresh seafood right before your eyes. It blends classic Japanese technique with modern flair, perfect for a cozy but elevated dinner.
• A Happy Pancake Shinsaibashi: Another spot that has locations around Japan but if you are in Osaka you should check out Happy Pancake for traditional thick Japanese pancakes.
• Kopimal coffee: Cute cafe for a coffee break

Day 2 (more landmarks or universal studios)

On your second day in Osaka you can take you one of two routes. The first route which most people recommend is going to Universal Studios. While this may be the move for some people, as someone who lives in the US we skipped universal studios to dive deeper into the culture of Osaka. As a first timer in Osaka we opted out of Universal but would love to come back and go! 

Must visit places 

• Universal Studios: As mentioned above you can use your day 2 in Osaka to visit universal studios which will pretty much take up your entire day. As most places in Japan, book tour tickets early! Especially for Mario World. For those not going to Universal Studios, keep scrolling 
• Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade: A super unique shopping area. It feels like you have been transported back in time. Cute souvenir shopping and arcade games, and food of course duh
• JanJan Yokocho Alley: In the area of Shinsaibashi, go down JanJan Yokocho Alley more food options 
• Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine: Beautiful traditional shrine
• Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street: Longest shopping street in Japan 
• Umeda Sky Building: For skyline views of Osaka and surrounding area

Food RECS

• Wagyu Teppanyaki OUSAKA: A luxe yet approachable teppanyaki experience where A5 wagyu beef is grilled right in front of you with flair. Perfect for celebrating or treating yourself to ultra-marbled meat in a stylish setting. This is on the top of my list the next time I am in Osaka
• GYOZAOH! Dotonbori Store: A casual, flavorful gem specializing in handmade gyoza (dumplings) with crispy skins and juicy filling — great for a quick bite or snack while exploring Dotonbori.
• Curry Yakumido: A cozy, local favorite known for its homemade Japanese curry that’s rich, comforting, and packed with depth — often served with pork cutlet or veggies in a no-frills setting.
• Coconchi Osaka Shinsekai: A charming, retro-style café offering cute, Instagrammable Japanese breakfasts and teishoku meals in the heart of Shinsekai. We tried the pastry with bean jam .. interesting flavor and combo but worth a try!
• Mel Coffee Roasters: Good coffee shop but if the line is more than 10-20 minutes.. I would try somewhere else
• Barista Map Coffee Roasters: Another unique coffee shop where you can enjoy expertly crafted coffee beverages

FINAL THOUGHTS

Two days in Osaka might not feel like enough, but with the right itinerary, you can experience the city’s highlights, savor its world-famous street food, and soak in its unique charm. Whether you’re strolling through vibrant neighborhoods like Dotonbori, exploring historic sites like Osaka Castle, or diving into the local food scene, this city leaves a lasting impression. Osaka is fast-paced, friendly, and full of flavor—making it the perfect stop on any Japan itinerary.

Planning more stops in Japan? Be sure to check out my other Japan travel guides, my Tokyo Google Guide, and follow me on Instagram/Pinterest/TikTok for daily travel tips, itineraries, and inspiration from around the world!