9-Day Cultural Journey through Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples. Spend about 1.5 hours exploring the temple grounds and learning about its history.

For lunch, head to 串カツだるま to try some of Osaka's famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). After lunch, visit the nearby Tsutenkaku Tower, an iconic symbol of Osaka that offers panoramic views of the city. Allocate around 2 hours for this activity.

In the evening, unwind at Spa World, a unique onsen theme park offering various hot spring baths from around the world. Enjoy a relaxing soak and dinner at one of their on-site restaurants.

Start your morning with a visit to Umeda Sky Building, an architectural marvel offering stunning views from its Floating Garden Observatory. Spend about 1 hour here.

For lunch, head to 松阪牛焼肉M 法善寺横丁店 for some delicious Matsusaka beef yakiniku. Afterward, explore America-Mura (American Village), known for its trendy shops and vibrant street art. Allocate around 2 hours for this activity.

In the evening, dine at フレンチレストラン La Baie, a highly-rated French restaurant in Osaka. End your day with a relaxing stroll through Nakanoshima Park.

Take a day trip to Kyoto starting with a visit to the serene Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Spend about 1 hour admiring this stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf.

For lunch, explore the nearby Nishiki Market where you can sample various local delicacies. Afterward, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples known for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall. Allocate around 2 hours here.

End your day with dinner at Pontocho Alley, where you can find numerous traditional restaurants along this narrow alleyway by the Kamogawa River.

Start your morning with a peaceful walk through Arashiyama Park and visit the nearby Bamboo Grove for some serene natural beauty. Spend about 1 hour here.

Have lunch at one of Arashiyama's local eateries before heading to Tenryu-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful gardens. Allocate around 1.5 hours for this activity.

In the evening, enjoy traditional kaiseki cuisine at one of Kyoto’s renowned restaurants before taking an evening stroll through Gion District, famous for its geisha culture.

Begin your day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha), famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Spend about 2 hours exploring this iconic site.

For lunch, head to Nishiki Market again for more local flavors. Afterward, visit Nijo-jo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful gardens and historic architecture. Allocate around 2 hours here.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of Kyoto's traditional restaurants in Pontocho Alley before taking an evening stroll along the Kamogawa River.

Start your day in Kobe with a visit to Kobe Port Tower. This iconic tower offers panoramic views of the city and harbor. Spend about 1 hour here enjoying the scenery.

For lunch, head to Kobe Beef Steak Ishida Kitanozaka to savor some of the finest Kobe beef. Afterward, explore Meriken Park, a waterfront park featuring modern art installations and a relaxing atmosphere. Allocate around 2 hours for this activity.

In the evening, dine at Sone Jazz Bar and Restaurant, where you can enjoy live jazz music along with your meal. End your day with a leisurely walk along the harbor.

Begin your day with a visit to Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. Learn about the sake brewing process and enjoy some tastings. Spend about 1 hour here.

For lunch, head to Wakkoqu, Shinkobe for another delightful Kobe beef experience. Afterward, take a scenic walk along Maiko Marine Promenade which offers stunning views of Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Allocate around 2 hours for this activity.

In the evening, dine at La Shomon, known for its exquisite Japanese cuisine. End your day with an evening stroll through Kobe's bustling downtown area.

Start your final day with a visit to Kobe Maritime Museum. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on the history of Kobe's port and maritime industry. Spend about 1.5 hours here exploring the displays.

For lunch, head to Mouriya Honten to enjoy a sumptuous meal featuring premium Kobe beef. After lunch, take a relaxing stroll through Maiko Marine Promenade, where you can enjoy scenic views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the surrounding area. Allocate around 2 hours for this activity.

In the evening, dine at Bistrot Cafe de Paris, known for its delightful French cuisine. End your trip with a visit to Kobe Mt Rokko night view & Arima Onsen & Sanda Outlet Tour, where you can enjoy breathtaking night views of Kobe from Mt. Rokko and relax in the hot springs at Arima Onsen.