7 Days in Japan: Kyoto Osaka Nara Kobe Itinerary

Begin your day in Osaka with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. For breakfast, try Granknot Coffee for some excellent coffee and pastries.

In the afternoon, explore the bustling district of Dotonbori, known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious street food. Don't miss trying takoyaki (octopus balls) from one of the many street vendors. For lunch, dine at Kushikatsu Daruma, famous for its deep-fried skewers. Afterward, visit Osaka Museum of Housing and Living to get a glimpse into Osaka's past through life-sized replicas of historical buildings.

Spend your evening in America-Mura (American Village), a trendy area filled with shops, cafes, and street art that gives off a youthful vibe reminiscent of Harajuku in Tokyo. Enjoy dinner at Cafe Absinthe, which offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy setting. End your night with drinks at Bar Nayuta, known for its creative cocktails.

Start your day early with a visit to Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue (Daibutsu), one of Japan's largest bronze statues of Buddha Vairocana. The temple complex is surrounded by Nara Park where you can interact with friendly deer that roam freely around the area. Have breakfast at Wakakusa Curry Honpo before exploring further.

In the afternoon, head over to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, an ancient Shinto shrine famous for its hundreds of bronze lanterns that line its pathways. Enjoy lunch at Shizuka which serves traditional Japanese cuisine including set meals featuring local ingredients from Nara Prefecture.

Conclude your day by visiting Naramachi (Nara Town), an old merchant district where you can wander through narrow streets lined with well-preserved machiya houses now converted into shops and cafes offering local crafts and delicacies like mochi sweets made fresh daily! Dine at Kikusuiro, offering kaiseki-style dining experiences within historic settings before heading back.

Begin your day in Kobe with a visit to the iconic Meriken Park. This waterfront park offers beautiful views of the harbor and is home to several notable landmarks, including the Kobe Port Tower and the Earthquake Memorial. For breakfast, stop by Starbucks Kobe Meriken Park for a coffee with a view.

In the afternoon, explore the historic Kitano-cho district, known for its well-preserved Western-style houses from the late 19th century. These former residences of foreign merchants offer a glimpse into Kobe's international past. Enjoy lunch at Kitano Club, which provides a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the city. Afterward, visit Kawachi Wisteria Garden to witness its stunning wisteria tunnels if you are visiting during spring.

Conclude your day with a relaxing visit to Arima Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts. Soak in the therapeutic waters and unwind after a day of sightseeing. For dinner, savor traditional kaiseki cuisine at Tsuzuri, located within Arima Onsen. End your evening with drinks at Bar & Grill Misono, known for its elegant ambiance and extensive drink menu.

Start your morning with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples known for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall, offering impressive views of cherry and maple trees below. Have breakfast at Saryo Tsujiri, famous for its matcha-based sweets and beverages.

In the afternoon, head to Nijo Castle, an ancient castle that served as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu during his visits to Kyoto. The castle is renowned for its beautiful gardens and historical significance. Enjoy lunch at Honke Owariya, one of Kyoto's oldest soba noodle restaurants dating back over 500 years! Afterward, take part in an immersive cultural experience by joining Tokyo: Zen Meditation at a Private Temple with a Monk, which will provide insight into Japanese Zen practices.

Spend your evening exploring Pontocho Alley, a narrow street lined with traditional wooden buildings housing restaurants and teahouses along the Kamogawa River. Dine at Pontocho Kappa Zushi, offering delicious sushi in an atmospheric setting before heading to L'Escamoteur Bar for creative cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists.

Begin your day early by visiting Isuien Garden, an exquisite Japanese garden featuring ponds, tea houses, and beautifully landscaped grounds that offer tranquility amidst nature's beauty. Have breakfast at Cafe Etranger Narad before continuing your exploration.

In the afternoon, make your way to Horyu-ji Temple Complex which is recognized as one of Japan’s oldest temples boasting ancient architecture dating back over 1 millennium! Enjoy lunch nearby at Shizuka Saryo, serving traditional Japanese dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Conclude your day by exploring Heijo Palace Site - once home to Japan’s Imperial Family during Nara period (710–794 AD). Wander through reconstructed buildings while learning about historical significance via informative displays throughout site grounds before enjoying dinner at nearby restaurant -Kikusuiro- offering kaiseki-style dining experiences within historic settings.

Start your final day in Japan with a visit to the National Bunraku Theater. This theater is dedicated to the traditional Japanese puppet theater known as Bunraku, which is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Enjoy an insightful performance that showcases the intricate art of puppetry. For breakfast, stop by Granknot Coffee for some excellent coffee and pastries.

In the afternoon, head to Spa World, a unique spa complex offering various themed baths from around the world. Relax and rejuvenate in the different hot spring baths and enjoy some leisure time. For lunch, dine at Kushikatsu Daruma, famous for its deep-fried skewers.

Conclude your trip with a visit to Umeda Sky Building, one of Osaka's most recognizable landmarks. The building features an observatory on its rooftop that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Enjoy dinner at Sky Lounge Stardust, located within the Umeda Sky Building, offering delicious cuisine with breathtaking views of Osaka's skyline. End your night with drinks at Bar Nayuta, known for its creative cocktails.