4 Day Osaka Itinerary: How I Spent The Perfect 96 Hours in Osaka Japan 2026

I actually think Osaka is a bit underrated as far as major Japanese cities go. A lot of people I talked to said they were mainly going for Universal Studios Japan, which I get, and yes, I loved that too, but I ended up really loving the city itself.

Osaka has amazing food, super fun areas to explore like Dotonbori and Shinsekai, and I thought Osaka Castle was genuinely stunning. There’s definitely enough here to keep you busy, which is why I’d recommend spending at least a few days in the city rather than treating it as a quick stop.

That’s also exactly why I put this 4 day Osaka itinerary together. It’s meant to give you a realistic idea of what there is to do in Osaka, how much time things actually take, and how to fit in a full day at Universal Studios without feeling rushed.

4 Day Osaka Itinerary – My Experience

I personally spent three full days in Osaka, not four, so this itinerary isn’t a 100% exact copy of what I did, but it’s very close. This 4 day Osaka itinerary includes two days in the city, one full day at Universal Studios Japan, and a day trip to Nara. The Nara trip is the only part I actually did while staying in Kyoto rather than Osaka, but aside from that, this reflects my time here pretty accurately.

Osaka was also my first stop when I arrived in Japan, so all of my very first Japan impressions happened here. Looking back after spending about a month in the country, I actually think Osaka was the perfect place to start. Tokyo can feel pretty full-on at first (especially when it’s your first stop in Japan), while Osaka is a bit calmer and just better to ease into.

During my time in the city, I was honestly just excited to be in Japan and wanted to see and try as much as possible. I explored different neighborhoods like Dotonbori and Shinsekai, visited Osaka Castle, and ate a lot of incredible food, including some of the best wagyu beef I’ve ever had.

Of course, I also spent a full day at Universal Studios Japan, which I absolutely loved and would highly recommend. Overall, I had an amazing time in Osaka, and I’d definitely suggest planning at least three days here if you can.

How to Spend 4 Days in Osaka Itinerary

Day 1: Kurumon Market, Shinsekai & Dotonborri

On my first day in Osaka, I wanted to get a proper feel for the city, so I focused on exploring a few of its most well-known areas. I like starting a trip with something lively, and for Osaka that meant heading straight to a market.

Kuromon Market is one of the most popular markets in the city, and for good reason. Markets in Japan are fantastic for street food and trying lots of different things in one place. I went around lunchtime and sampled my way through oysters, dumplings, and wagyu beef on a skewer, an excellent way to ease into Osaka’s food scene.

In the late afternoon, I headed to Shinsekai. This is Osaka’s old-school entertainment district, and I honestly loved it. Everything feels a bit retro, with huge neon signs everywhere, plus loads of small shops and restaurants. I grabbed a couple of beers and just enjoyed the atmosphere.

I finished the day in Dotonbori, which is arguably the most famous area in Osaka. With the massive neon signs along the canal and endless food options, it’s a fun place to wander, especially in the evening.

I ended up at Ichiran Ramen here. Yes, it’s a bit mainstream and touristy, but the ramen is genuinely delicious, and I’d still happily recommend it.

Day 2: Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

On my second day in Osaka, I spent the entire day at Universal Studios Japan. I wouldn’t say I’m a huge theme park person, but whenever I do go, I usually end up loving it, and USJ was no exception.

Getting there was super easy. I took the subway from my hotel, and since Universal Studios Japan has its own station, the whole journey was very straightforward. I ended up staying from early morning until nighttime because once you factor in wait times, lunch, and just moving around the park, the day flies by.

Instead of explaining how to spend a full day in a theme park, I’ll share a few practical tips that made my day at USJ much smoother.

Universal Studios Japan gets insanely busy, so having a rough game plan really helps:

• Arrive early. The official opening time is usually 9:00 am, but they often let people in earlier. I’d aim to be there around 7:30 am to get in among the first.
  
• Choose your Express Pass carefully. Not every fast pass is worth it, so make sure you pick one that actually fits what you want to ride.
  
• Download the official USJ app. Once you’re inside, use it to make a free timed-entry reservation for Super Nintendo World and head straight to the Donkey Kong ride. This is usually your best chance, as wait times later can easily hit three hours or more.
  
• Go to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter first. We walked straight in early in the morning, and it was surprisingly empty since most people rush to Super Nintendo World.
  
• Don’t miss The Flying Dinosaur. This roller coaster in the Jurassic Park area was honestly one of the best I’ve ever been on.

Book Here: Universal Studios Japan Tickets

Book Here: Universal Studios Japan Fast Pass

Day 3: Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky

On the third day of my 4 Day Osaka Itinerary, I’m tackling one of my absolute favorite things to do in Osaka and one of the city’s real highlights: visiting Osaka Castle. I’ve seen quite a few castles in Japan (Hiroshima, Kanazawa, and a couple more), but Osaka Castle was honestly my favorite of them all.

I came here in the morning and was surprised by how quiet it was (I visited in November). It was lightly raining, which probably helped, but I can imagine this place getting pretty busy during peak season on a sunny day.

I spent a good amount of time just walking around Osaka Castle Park, which is huge and really pleasant to explore. Apparently, this area is incredible during cherry blossom season, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re visiting in late March or early April.

After wandering the grounds, I headed up to Osaka Castle itself. I spent way too long outside taking photos before deciding to go inside and I’m really glad I did. Entry was around $6 USD, there was no line when I visited, and it was totally worth it. You get a solid overview of the castle’s history and some great views from the top. I saw plenty of people just taking a quick photo outside and leaving, but I’d definitely recommend going in if you have the time.

To end the day, I made my way to Umeda Sky Building, which has one of the coolest observation decks in Osaka. I’ve been to Shibuya Sky and Tokyo Skytree in Tokyo, so if those are already on your list you could skip this one, but otherwise, Umeda Sky is a really fun experience and a great way to see the city from above, especially toward sunset.

Day 4: Day Trip to Nara from Osaka

I actually did my day trip to Nara from Kyoto, but it’s just as easy (if not easier) to do it from Osaka. There’s a direct express train from Osaka Station, and you’re in Nara in about 35 minutes, so it’s a super straightforward day trip.

And honestly, I loved Nara. It rained pretty much the entire day I was there, but I just grabbed an umbrella and explored anyway, which turned out to be kind of perfect because it wasn’t nearly as busy. Nara is one of the most popular day trips from both Osaka and Kyoto, and for good reason. It’s a small, walkable town with a huge park filled with temples, shrines, and an almost ridiculous number of deer roaming around freely.

I spent most of the day just wandering, taking photos, and yes, feeding the deer (you kind of have to). My absolute highlight was Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha Hall. The massive bronze Buddha inside was super impressive and way bigger than I expected.

I loved Nara as a day trip, especially after a few busy days in the city. It’s calm, green, and super charming, and I think it’s an especially great stop if you’re traveling with kids, the deer alone make it worth it.

Where to Stay in Osaka Japan

One thing I really liked about Osaka is that location didn’t feel nearly as important as it does in Tokyo. Tokyo is huge, with interesting neighborhoods spread all over the city, whereas Osaka feels a bit more compact and easier to navigate.

For me, the sweet spot was around the Namba and Dotonbori areas. Staying in those areas meant I could explore a lot on foot, but still had excellent public transport connections for getting everywhere else.

I personally stayed at a hotel in Namba and was very happy with that choice. I love being able to walk out of my hotel and start exploring straight away, and I really don’t enjoy having to jump on the subway first thing every single morning.

Here are a few hotels I can recommend in great central locations:

Book Here: Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka

Book Here: CINQS Hotel Osaka

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Osaka

Carry cash: Before I arrived in Osaka, I assumed Japan would be super card-friendly everywhere. Not quite. I needed cash way more often than expected, and I somehow ended up with an impressive collection of coins, so much so that I had to buy a coin purse.

Get an IC card: I’ve mentioned this before, but IC cards aren’t quite as essential in Osaka as they are in Tokyo. That said, I still got one to make life easier. Cards like Suica or Pasmo work perfectly for public transport and just make getting around much easier.

Get an eSIM: Having mobile data at all times was a must for me. I used it constantly for Google Maps, finding restaurants, and generally getting around. I always use Sim Local and have been really happy with it. (Sign up here and use my discount code GIRLONAZEBRA.)

Don’t overthink everything: I made the mistake of planning and overthinking almost everything at the beginning,  activities, food spots, routes, and it honestly stressed me out more than necessary. Once I started going with the flow and exploring more spontaneously, my Japan experience got a lot better.

Skip viral Instagram food spots: I learned this the hard way. Most of the viral Instagram food places I tried were pretty disappointing. The massive unagi don with egg in Osaka? Not great. The carbonara udon in Tokyo? Also not great. Small, local restaurants are where it’s at, trust me on this one.

Manners matter: Japanese people are incredibly respectful and considerate of each other. In public, it really pays to be observant and do as locals do, keep noise down, be polite, and be mindful of your surroundings.

FAQs About 4 Day Itinerary Osaka 

How to spend 4 days in Osaka and Kyoto?

If I only had four days for both Osaka and Kyoto combined, I’d probably spend more time in Kyoto. From a classic sightseeing point of view, Kyoto simply has more temples, shrines, and historical areas. 

That said, I’d still absolutely include Osaka as a day trip. The train ride from Kyoto to Osaka only takes about 30 minutes, so it’s very easy to do without changing accommodation.

Is Osaka worth visiting?

Absolutely. I honestly think Osaka is one of the most underrated cities in Japan, and it’s definitely much more than just Universal Studios Japan.

I had an amazing time here eating my way through the city, trying loads of street food, and exploring fun neighborhoods like Dotonbori. Osaka has a very different vibe from Tokyo and Kyoto, and that’s exactly why it’s worth visiting.

What is a good 4 day Osaka itinerary with kids?

If you’re traveling with kids, I’d 100% include Universal Studios Japan. Areas like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World are huge highlights and usually a big hit with kids.

I’d also add a day trip to Nara. Feeding the deer in Nara Park is genuinely fun and something kids usually love.

When is cherry blossom season in Osaka?

Cherry blossom season in Osaka is usually from late March to early April, though exact timing can change slightly every year. Osaka Castle is one of the most popular places in the city to see cherry blossoms during this time.

Is Universal Studios Japan worth visiting?

I definitely think so. I’m not necessarily the biggest theme park person, but when I do go, I usually love it, and Universal Studios Japan was no exception.

It was insanely busy when I visited, but despite the crowds, I still had a great time and would recommend it if you enjoy theme parks.

Final Thoughts on This 4 Day Osaka Itinerary

I think this is a great 4 day itinerary for Osaka mainly because it leaves room to be spontaneous. From my experience in Osaka, and honestly in most places in Japan, my favorite moments came from simply exploring.

Walking down small alleyways, popping into a random ramen shop, having a cold beer and a hot bowl of ramen, that’s when Japan really clicked for me. And that’s not something you get if every single day is planned from morning to night, including dinner reservations.

No matter how long you’re in Osaka, I’d always recommend leaving time to do your own thing and just wander.

I hope this 4 day itinerary gives you a good idea of what to do in Osaka. Happy travels.

Check Out My Other Osaka Guides

The Best Time to Visit Osaka Japan: My Osaka Season Guide

Is Osaka Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

1 Day in Osaka Itinerary: How I Spent 24 Hours in Osaka

Best Cafes in Osaka: My Favorite Cafes & Coffee Shops

4 Day Osaka Itinerary: How I Spent 96 Hours in Osaka

The Best Food in Osaka: My Top Osaka Restaurants

How Many Days in Osaka: My Day by Day Guide

2 Days in Osaka Itinerary: How I Spent 48 Hours in Osaka

Is Universal Studios Japan Worth it? My Honest Review

My Top Universal Studios Japan Tips: Everything You Need to Know

Is Universal Studio Japan Express Pass Worth it? My Honest Review

Check Out My Other Japan Travel Guides

Japan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Japan

Best eSIM for Japan: My Honest Comparison

Is Japan Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

Is Japan Expensive to Visit? Japan Budget Guide

7 Days in Japan Itinerary: How I Spent 1 Week in Japan