Ultimate 11-Day Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara Adventure Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the breathtaking reflection of the golden temple on the surrounding pond.

For lunch, head to Gion, the famous Geisha district of Kyoto. Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal in one of the local restaurants, and then take a walk through the historic streets, keeping an eye out for Geisha and Maiko as they go about their day.

As the day winds down, experience the tranquility of Gion with a peaceful evening walk. Visit the beautiful Yasaka Shrine (Yasaka-jinja) and the nearby Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka preserved pedestrian streets, lined with traditional shops and teahouses.

Embark on a spiritual journey with a visit to the majestic Todaiji Temple (Nara Deer Park), home to the Great Buddha. Marvel at the impressive statue and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the surrounding park, where friendly deer roam freely.

For lunch, visit Nara Park, where you can enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature and the friendly deer that inhabit the area. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the park, visiting the nearby Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its beautiful lanterns.

As the day comes to a close, explore the charming streets of Naramachi, the old merchant district of Nara. Visit the Nara National Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the area, and then enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Kick off the day with a visit to the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum (Cupnoodles Museum) to learn about the history of instant ramen and even create your own custom cup of noodles. Enjoy a quick ramen breakfast at the museum's noodle bazaar.

For lunch, indulge in the world-famous tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran Ramen, known for its rich and flavorful broth. Afterward, take a relaxing walk through the Abeno Harukas (Osaka Harukas), Japan's tallest skyscraper, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.

Experience the future of entertainment at teamLab Borderless, an otherworldly digital art museum that will take your breath away. After immersing yourself in the stunning visuals, head to Shinsekai for a unique blend of old and new Osaka. Enjoy a delicious kushikatsu dinner at one of the local restaurants, and take a stroll through the vibrant streets of this retro entertainment district.

Begin your day with a visit to the serene Ryoanji Temple, known for its famous rock garden. Take some time to meditate and appreciate the minimalist beauty of the garden and the surrounding temple.

For lunch, enjoy a peaceful meal at Tenryu-ji Temple, one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the temple's exquisite gardens, which are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As the day turns to dusk, visit the enchanting Arashiyama district. Explore the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and the surrounding bamboo groves. For dinner, indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal at Arashiyama, with its beautiful river views and serene atmosphere.

Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Heijo Palace Site, the former site of the ancient capital of Japan. Explore the ruins and imagine life in this historic city over a thousand years ago.

For lunch, visit Todaiji Temple, one of the most famous and historically significant temples in Japan. Enjoy a meal in the temple's serene surroundings, and then explore the impressive Todaiji Temple (Nara Deer Park), home to the Great Buddha.

As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk through Isuien Garden and Yoshikien Garden, two of Nara's most beautiful gardens. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For dinner, visit Nara Park and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature and the friendly deer that inhabit the area.

Kick off your day with an exciting visit to Universal Studios Japan. Enjoy a fun-filled morning exploring the park's thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and immersive attractions. Be sure to take a break for a delicious meal at one of the park's many restaurants.

After an action-packed morning, take a leisurely stroll through the Osaka Bay Area. Visit the Tempozan Ferris Wheel for a bird's-eye view of the city, and explore the nearby Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world.

For dinner, enjoy a delightful meal at Universal Studios Japan, or explore the nearby Minami (Namba) district for a wide variety of dining options. Afterward, take a relaxing walk through the vibrant streets, exploring the shops, bars, and entertainment venues that make this area a must-visit destination.

Start your day with a visit to the Nijo Castle (Nijojo), an ornamental castle that was the residence of the shogun during the Edo period. Explore the beautiful gardens and the famous "nightingale floors" that were designed to chirp like birds to warn of intruders.

For lunch, visit Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former ruling palace of the Emperor of Japan. Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal in the palace's serene surroundings, and then take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the palace and the surrounding park.

As the day winds down, visit the Nishiki Market (Nishiki Ichiba), known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." Explore the narrow, bustling streets and indulge in a wide variety of local delicacies and traditional crafts. For dinner, enjoy a meal at one of the market's many restaurants, or explore the nearby Pontocho district for a more upscale dining experience.

Begin your day with a visit to the sacred Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its many bronze and stone lanterns. Take a walk through the tranquil forest to the shrine, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.

For lunch, visit Todaiji Temple, one of the most famous and historically significant temples in Japan. Enjoy a meal in the temple's serene surroundings, and then explore the impressive Todaiji Temple (Nara Deer Park), home to the Great Buddha.

As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk through Isuien Garden and Yoshikien Garden, two of Nara's most beautiful gardens. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For dinner, visit Nara Park and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature and the friendly deer that inhabit the area.

Start your day with a visit to the Osaka Museum of History to gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich cultural heritage. Explore the museum's exhibits, which cover various periods of Osaka's history, and enjoy a light breakfast at the museum's cafe.

For lunch, take a Local Bar Crawl in Dotombori & Uranamba Area to discover hidden local gems and enjoy a variety of small bites and drinks. Immerse yourself in the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of Osaka's food and drink scene, and get to know the city's neighborhoods on a more intimate level.

As the sun sets, experience the magical world of Hozenji Yokocho, a charming alley lined with traditional restaurants and bars. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the local eateries, and then take a stroll through the nearby Nakanoshima, an island oasis in the heart of the city, with its beautiful parks and waterfront views.

Begin your final day with a visit to the Shitenno-ji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. Explore the temple grounds and take in the serene atmosphere, and then enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at one of the nearby restaurants.

For lunch, visit Osaka Science Museum, where you can enjoy a meal in the museum's cafe and explore the interactive exhibits and planetarium. After lunch, take a Deep Backstreets Exploration to discover the hidden side of Osaka, with its narrow alleyways, traditional architecture, and local shops and eateries.

End your trip with a visit to the Umeda Sky Building, one of Osaka's most recognizable landmarks. Enjoy the stunning views of the city from the observation deck, and then indulge in a farewell dinner at the building's renowned restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Osaka one last time.