Start your day at Namba Yasaka Shrine, known for its lion-head stage that is said to swallow evil spirits and bring good fortune.

Continue on to Kuromon Ichiba Market, often called “Osaka’s Kitchen. The market is well known for fresh seafood, sashimi, and seasonal fruits, as well as takoyaki and other popular street snacks.

Spend the afternoon along Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street, a covered arcade stretching for several blocks. This historic shopping street blends traditional shops with contemporary fashion, cosmetics, and character goods.

Then check out the exhibit at the National Bunraku Theater to learn more about the traditional puppet theater art form.

Optional add-on: If the performance schedule lines up with yours, consider limiting your time in Shinsaibashi-suji and Dotonbori to attend part of a bunraku performance.

Optional add-on: Before heading to Dotonbori, visit Hozen-ji Temple, known for its lantern-lit alleyway and moss-covered statue said to bring visitors good luck.

As night falls, head to Dotonbori, Osaka’s most iconic entertainment district where neon signs illuminate the canal, including the famous Glico Running Man and towering mechanical billboards. Consider taking a Tombori River cruise for a short ride beneath the glowing skyline. Have dinner in the area—okonomiyaki, Osaka’s savory cabbage pancake layered with meat or seafood, is a local specialty.

Start the day at Osaka Castle, exploring its impressive main keep and beautifully maintained gardens. The castle grounds offer both historical context and scenic views, providing a sense of Osaka’s feudal past.

Continue to Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples, with its tranquil courtyards and traditional architecture.

Then head to Den Den Town, the city’s hub for anime, gaming, electronics, and hobby culture. Browse retro game shops, multi-floor arcades, and walls of gachapon machines filled with collectible capsule toys.

Conclude the day exploring Shinsekai, a nostalgic neighborhood with a Showa-era atmosphere. Sample kushikatsu, Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers, and soak in the lively streets illuminated by neon lights.

Optional add-on: While in Shinsekai, head up Tsutenkaku Tower for panoramic views of the city lights.

Take the shinkansen to Himeji to visit Himeji Castle, nicknamed the white heron castle, known for its elegant architecture and extensive grounds. Stroll through the nearby Koko-En Garden, a collection of traditional Japanese gardens that provide a tranquil contrast to the castle’s imposing structure.

Optional add-on: Before exploring Umeda, stroll through Nakanoshima Park, where the rose garden is a highlight.

End the day exploring the shopping and dining options in Umeda and then taking in sweeping views from the Umeda Sky Building, watching Osaka’s skyline illuminate as night falls.