Osaka Day Trip From Kyoto: Best Things To Do In Osaka, Japan

Compared to Kyoto’s tranquil temples, wooden teahouses, and historical charm, Osaka is a city full of contrasts.

In Osaka, you’ll find the best of both worlds: traditional temples sitting side-by-side with towering skyscrapers and retro-neon lights leading to tranquil Japanese gardens. Being the third-largest city in Japan, you already know there’s going to be a ton of stuff to do here.

Osaka is a great place to shop, with its myriad of malls, shopping arcades, and department stores. It’s also a food lover’s paradise, with endless street food stalls mixed among Michelin-starred restaurants.

The nightlife and entertainment options here are also seemingly endless! The city boasts a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues, making it a hotspot for travelers who want a piece of the nightlife action.

Osaka’s also got lots of cultural/historical attractions, with historical landmarks such as Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple offering insights into the city’s past.

Needless to say, if you’re looking to fill your Osaka day trip itinerary up, you won’t have any issues with that. You MAY actually struggle to narrow things down!

In this travel guide, I’ll share two different day trip itineraries of Osaka. One will be the exact itinerary I did during my first visit to Japan (showcasing the best of Osaka), and the other is specifically for foodies and market lovers!

Prior to our trip, I had done a ton of research spanning multiple weeks. Yes, you heard it right. A few weeks of constant research to learn as much as I could about this city!

That means all the heavy lifting has been done for you, so discovering and deciding on all the things you want to do on your Osaka day trip will be a breeze.

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

---

WHERE IS OSAKA, JAPAN?

Osaka is a city located in Japan’s Kansai region in the central part of the Japanese island of Honshu. You can get there pretty easily from other major cities in Japan.

• Tokyo: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by shinkansen (bullet train) from Shin-Osaka Station.
• Kyoto: Approximately 30 minutes by train from Osaka Station.
• Nara: Approximately 50 minutes by train from Osaka Station.
• Hiroshima: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station.
• Kobe: Approximately 20 minutes by train from Osaka Station.
• Himeji: Approximately 30 minutes by shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station.
• Nagoya: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station.
• Okayama: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station.
• Kinosaki Onsen: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by train.

Osaka is a bustling metropolis and one of the largest cities in Japan. It’s often called the “heart” of the country because of its central location and lively atmosphere. If you’re looking to enjoy some food, nightlife, and shopping, this is the city you need to visit!

In addition to being a short train ride away from Kyoto, Osaka is located close to Nara and Kobe as well, making it the perfect base for exploring Japan’s Kansai region.

---

OSAKA ITINERARY #1: BEST OF OSAKA

This “Best Of Osaka” itinerary is the one that I created and followed on my first visit to Osaka.

This trip covers the highlights of Osaka (with a few off-the-beaten-path attractions sprinkled in) and is ideal for first-time visitors to Osaka, Japan.

This itinerary also works well for return visitors who want to revisit their favorite spots and discover some new activities.

You’ll be able to experience all of the following during your day trip to Osaka from Kyoto:

• Osaka Castle
• Shinsekai
• Shitennoji
• Dotonbori district
• Glico Running Man sign
• HEP FIVE Shopping Area
• Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade
• and so much more!

So let’s get right into it!

Osaka is known for its food and lively atmosphere. It’s a very different feel compared to the nearby city of Kyoto!

If you’re starting your trip from Kyoto, take the first train of the day to Osaka Station. From there, let’s get to exploring Osaka!

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle, located just a bit east of Osaka Station, is one of the most popular attractions in all of the city…and one of Japan’s most popular castles! Built in 1583, Osaka Castle was the largest castle at the time.

The castle complex has since been restored and now includes a museum, an observation deck, and a beautiful park (Osaka Castle Park).

Begin by exploring the majestic Osaka Castle itself, marveling at its impressive architecture and learning about its storied past through informative exhibits. A moat surrounds the castle itself and has several floors, each of which is filled with artifacts and information about the castle’s history.

Due to its popularity, Osaka Castle can be quite crowded, so I recommend visiting first thing in the morning to avoid the bulk of the crowds. Since you’ll be limited on time, you’ll want to buy your tickets in advance for skip-the-line privileges.

Your ticket will also come with access to climb the Castle Tower, where you get to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from the observation deck. To get there, take the lift to floor 5 then walk up to floor 8 to get to the views.

From there, take a stroll through the expansive park grounds. It’s dotted with lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and blooming cherry blossom trees in the springtime. Osaka Castle’s Plum Grove and Nishinomaru Garden are two garden areas you can check out.

For those interested in history, a visit to the nearby Osaka Museum of History provides further insights into the city’s cultural heritage.

Shitennoji Flea Market

I love local activities, so naturally, I went out of my way to find an activity that only locals knew about– the Shitennoji Flea Market!

This flea market takes place on the 21st + 22nd of every month in Shitennoji, allowing you to get in some shopping while also exploring one of the most impressive temples in Osaka. If you’re in town during these dates and enjoy treasure hunting, definitely check it out!

I saw so many gorgeous kimonos for sale, as well as wooden sculpture antiques, porcelain, and many other goods splayed out on tables (many that wouldn’t have fit in my luggage, sadly).

It was a lot of fun to peruse the isles of treasures and you can find things there for bargain prices!

Be sure to head to the food stalls when you get hungry. Now’s your chance to get your first taste of regional specialties such as takoyaki (octopus dumplings) or okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

America-mura

Amemura, or America-mura, is a lively and youthful area in Osaka. It’s full of Japan’s take on American culture and therefore makes for great people-watching and window shopping. They even have their own Statue of Liberty on top of a building!

Here, you will find dozens of shops catering to fans of urban apparel, vintage clothing, hip-hop wear, as well as lolita, goth, and punk clothing. There are lots of cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area too.

If you’re missing “international” food, you’re in luck, because you’ll find a high density of pancakes, burgers, pizza, and artisan coffee here!

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Steps away from America-mura is your next stop: the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade and the surrounding Shinsaibashi area. This is Osaka’s premier shopping area.

Spanning 600 meters long, the Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade is the quintessential shotengai (covered shopping arcade). This huge shopping area combines chain retail stores and trendy boutiques with expensive department stores and designer fashion labels.

While the main arcade can be quite overwhelming (you better have some shopping stamina), it is worth taking a peek to see what’s on sale. Even if you don’t plan on buying things, it’s worth browsing through the wacky clothing shops and gadget stores.

If you have more energy in you, wander off to the side streets to explore the smaller, quieter mom-and-pop shops!

Lunchtime in Shinsaibashi / Dotonburi area

Shinsaibashi is a great area to wander around aimlessly. And since there are so many restaurants there, feel free to choose something in the area for lunch. Here are some ideas to get your foodie brain going:

• Tsurutontan Soemoncho for udon
• Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M for yakiniku featuring premium Matsusaka beef
• Daruma Honten is a local favorite for kushikatsu (deep-fried meat & veggies on skewers), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes filled with an assortment of ingredients), and other regional specialties
• Kani Doraku is one of Osaka’s most iconic crab restaurants, offering an exquisite selection of crab dishes, including kani sashimi, grilled crab legs, and crab hot pot

Nipponbashi (Denden Town)

Osaka’s Nipponbashi area, also known as “Denden Town,” is a lively district known for its many affordable electronics shops. If you want to pick up any gadget or electronic, this is the place to go.

But that’s not really what makes this area interesting to visit. Denden Town is also a paradise for otaku, with dozens of shops specializing in anime, manga, and games! It’s the perfect place to visit if you want to stock up on elusive action figures or limited-edition anime items.

If you like arcade games, cosplay, or anything else we just mentioned, get to Denden Town to feed your inner nerdy side.

Even if you’re not an otaku yourself, it’s worth spending an afternoon browsing the shops and people-watching!

Explore the Shinsekai district

Osaka’s quirky, retro Shinsekai district is a must-visit for any traveler to Japan. This unique neighborhood was modeled after Paris and New York City, and its Art Deco architecture is truly a sight to behold.

Once a thriving entertainment hub, Shinsekai fell into disrepair following World War II. These days, it’s been undergoing a revival, with new bars and restaurants popping up alongside its old-school attractions.

When you first arrive in Shinsekai, you’ll be greeted by the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, also known as the Eiffel Tower of Osaka. Originally built in 1958, the tower has become one of Osaka’s most recognizable landmarks.

Once you’ve admired the architecture of the neighborhood, head up to the Tsutenkaku Tower for some breathtaking views of the city. This was once the tallest building in Asia, and today it houses an observation deck and a small museum dedicated to its history.

Afterward, just wander through the neighborhood. You’ll find everything from crazy fishing restaurants, boardgame shops, retro video machine arcades, and old vinyl record stores. For all your souvenir shopping needs, don’t miss the massive MEGA Don Quijote there!

I’d also recommend walking down Janjan-Yokocho, a shopping arcade with a really interesting retro/80s vibe.

After working up an appetite from all that exploring, enjoy some Osaka-style street food at one of the many food stalls in the area. Don’t get too full though, because the next stop is going to be the iconic Dotonburi district!

Dotonburi

After you’re done shopping and taking in the sights for the day, head to the Dotonburi District for dinner and a stroll.

Dotonburi is an explosion of color, neon, entertainment, and food. One of Osaka’s most popular entertainment and foodie destinations, this street runs parallel to the Dotonbori Canal. It’s what people picture when you talk about the city of Osaka.

At night, it is lit by hundreds of neon lights and mechanized signs, including the famous Glico Running Man sign and Kani Doraku crab sign.

And while there are plenty of restaurants along Dotonbori to choose from, street food is the real highlight!

If you haven’t had it yet, don’t miss trying local specialties like okonomiyaki and takoyaki.

Let me warn you now — there’s a LOT to eat here. If you’re a foreigner who’s not too familiar with Japanese cuisine, you’ll want to opt for a food tour. Osaka is known for its street food culture, so trying as much food here is a MUST!

Osaka Backstreet Night Tour – an evening tour through the izakayas and backstreet bars of Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Amemura, where you sample local food and drink throughout the evening.

Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai – starting in the late afternoon, you’ll sample local specialties like kushikatsu, okonomiyaki, and takoyaki, and learn more about Osaka’s culture and history.

After the food and neon light overload, train back to Kyoto for a good night’s rest before you continue with the rest of your Japan travel itinerary!

Considering an overnight stay in Osaka instead? Here are the best neighborhoods and hotels to choose from in Osaka!

---

OSAKA ITINERARY #2: STREET FOOD AND MARKETS

HEP FIVE Shopping Center

HEP FIVE is a quirky, whimsical shopping mall aimed at teenagers and younger adults that is located in the Umeda district of Osaka. The mall is home to over 200 shops, as well as restaurants, cafes, and attractions like an indoor climbing wall and bungee jumping.

Even if you don’t end up shopping or eating, it’s great for a quick visit to see the enormous red whales hanging in the atrium area! There is also a Ferris wheel on the roof that you can ride.

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street

Welcome to Osaka’s longest shopping street! Here, you’ll find a massive mix of traditional Japanese shops, trendy boutiques, and local eateries spanning over 2.6 kilometers. You’ll really find everything here: from fashion clothing to cosmetics to souvenirs and street food.

Don’t miss trying local delicacies like takoyaki (octopus balls) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) while browsing through the array of shops.

Kuromon Ichiba Market

Just like how Tokyo has Tsukiji Fish Market and Ameya Yokocho, Kuromon Ichiba Market is Osaka’s iconic food market.

With over 130 shops and stalls, Kuromon Ichiba Market is a paradise for foodies, offering a feast for the eyes… and the tastebuds! You’ll find fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and lots of other local delicacies here.

As you stroll through the bustling aisles, you’ll be greeted by the sights, sounds, and aromas of vendors grilling seafood skewers, preparing sushi rolls, and offering samples of their specialties.

From sashimi and sushi to grilled scallops and Kobe beef, Kuromon Ichiba Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the booming food culture of Osaka.

During one of our trips to Osaka, we actually decided to elevate our experience in this market with a food tour! This is the exact food tour we did — we got to sample so many things we would have never known to try on our own and loved our time there!

Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street

Calling all cooking enthusiasts! This bustling shopping street in Osaka is a treasure trove of kitchenware and culinary delights. From professional-grade knives and cookware to traditional Japanese utensils and gadgets, you’ll find everything you need to stock your kitchen and unleash your inner chef.

As you explore the quaint stalls and shops, you’ll also come across many vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and specialty ingredients, making it the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs or sample local flavors.

Nipponbashi (Denden Town)

We’ve called out Denden Town on both itineraries. That’s because it’s such a unique area worth checking out!

Shop for electronics, browse dozens of shops specializing in anime/manga, and play arcade games while you’re here.

Explore the Shinsekai district

Osaka’s Shinsekai district is another must-visit for any traveler to Japan, no matter what your interests are. There’s actually a ton of good street food and shopping here, so it’s the perfect addition to this itinerary.

Again, there’s the Tsutenkaku Tower, the massive MEGA Don Quijote (for all your souvenir shopping needs), and Janjan-Yokocho (shopping arcade with a really interesting retro/80s vibe).

Dotonburi

Just like the previous itinerary, your day will end at the Dotonburi District.

You can try to plan your own food tour here, or go with a local guide to taste it all!

Osaka Backstreet Night Tour – an evening tour through the izakayas and backstreet bars of Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Amemura, where you sample local food and drink throughout the evening.

Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai – starting in the late afternoon, you’ll sample local specialties like kushikatsu, okonomiyaki, and takoyaki, and learn more about Osaka’s culture and history.

---

OTHER OSAKA ACTIVITIES

To truly experience Osaka, you’ll need at least 3-4 days to even scratch the surface.

After experiencing Osaka in 1 day (I did a day trip from Kyoto), I decided to dedicate 5 days to just Osaka on my second visit (a 4-night stay).

I found that one day was simply not enough. And even with 5 days (of those days was dedicated to a day trip to Kyoto), I wasn’t able to see and try everything I wanted!

There’s too much I want to eat there–it’s really a foodie’s paradise!

If you’re lucky enough to have a day or two extra, I would recommend spending more time in Osaka. Here are a few other fun activities to do in Osaka:

• Universal Studios Japan – you can’t miss the OG Super Nintendo World!
• Cup Noodles Museum
• Street Go-Kart Group Tour in Osaka
• The Pokemon Center
• Team Lab Botanical Garden
• Umeda Sky Building
• Explore all the beautiful temples and shrines like Shitennoji, Sumiyoshi Taisha, Namba Yasaka Jinja
• Bar hopping at night
• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
• Osaka Bay Area (Tempozan Harbor Village, Legoland Discovery Center, and Floating Garden Observatory)

---

THINGS TO EAT IN OSAKA

OSAKA

Takoyaki – street food snack made of octopus, ginger and green onions mixed into a batter and fried into bite-sized balls. You’ll find takoyaki stalls almost everywhere in Osaka.

Okonomiyaki – a savory pancake with cabbage, slices of meat and whatever else you want to add, drizzled with various sauces. Okonomiyaki quite literally means ‘whatever you want, grilled’.

Kitsune Udon – udon made with hot dashi stock and topped with deep-fried tofu. Though famous all over Japan, this dish actually originated in Osaka!

Fugu – blowfish served sashimi style. Fugu is a special delicacy in Japan, usually eaten raw. You don’t need to worry about its reputation for being dangerous, because all fugu chefs are specially trained in its preparation for three years before they can qualify for a license to serve.

Kushikatsu – skewered kebabs of meat, seafood, or vegetables deep-fried and served with a variety of dipping sauces.

---

GOT AN EXTRA DAY TO SPARE? KYOTO VS OSAKA

If you’ve got an extra day or two to spend in Japan’s Kansai region and are deciding where to spend that extra time, it’ll likely come down to choosing between Osaka or Kyoto.

Here’s a quick breakdown of each city.

• Osaka is more modern, while Kyoto is traditional.
• Osaka has a more youthful and down-to-earth vibe, while Kyoto has more history and old-world charm.
• Osaka has a much better drinking and food scene, while Kyoto has better attractions and landmarks (temples, shrines, and teahouses).
• As Kyoto is more touristy, prices will be more expensive than in Osaka. There will also likely be more crowds in Kyoto compared to Osaka.

Bottom line: If you prefer bustling city life, neon lights, food, and nightlife, spend your extra day in Osaka. If you’re more interested in temples, shrines, gardens, geisha culture, and nature, spend your extra day in Kyoto.

---

HOW TO GET TO OSAKA

Flying Into Osaka

If you’re traveling by plane, you can fly to either the Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) or Kansai International Airport (KIX). KIX is Osaka’s international airport and the one most travelers will be flying into. Itami is Osaka’s domestic airport.

The distances of these airports from Central Osaka are:

• Osaka International Airport (ITM) to Central Osaka = 8 miles (13 kilometers)
• Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Central Osaka = 31 miles (50 kilometers)

From KIX: Haruka Express (Recommended)

From KIX, take the JR Haruka Limited Express train to Osaka. Depending on where you need to go, can take a train from Kansai Airport to Osaka Station, Namba Station, Tennoji Station or Shin-Osaka Station.

The JR Haruka Express departs from Kansai Airport every 30 minutes and stops at Tennoji and Shin-Osaka stations. This is going to be the fastest way to make the journey into Osaka.

The earliest Haruka service from Kansai Airport is at 6:30 am (6:40 am on weekends and holidays) and the latest is at 10:16 pm.

This is the quickest train option and the method I use to get from the airport to the city of Osaka (and vice versa) every time I visit. The best part is that it’s covered by the Japan Rail Pass (both the Kansai Area regional pass and national pass).

For those without either of the passes, tickets cost 2,000 to 3,000 yen depending on which station you get off at in Osaka.

From KIX: Kansai Airport Rapid Train

The Kansai Airport Rapid train is a cheaper alternative to the Haruka Express. If you don’t have the JR Pass, this is a more budget-friendly option for you.

Tickets range from 1,000 to 1,200 yen depending on which stop you get off at in Osaka. This option takes 15 minutes longer than the Haruka Express as it makes more stops along the way.

JR Pass holders can access the line using their passes.

Coming From Kyoto

Osaka is just a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto. While there are buses that’ll get you there, the fastest, most efficient, and cheapest way is by train.

To get to Osaka Station: From Kyoto Station, take the Special Rapid service on the JR Kyoto Line. This is the most efficient way to get there from Kyoto Station. The Special Rapid Train will get you to Osaka Station in 28 minutes for 560 yen.

To get to Shin-Osaka Station: The high-speed shinkansen (bullet train) will get you from Kyoto Station to Shin-Osaka Station in 12 minutes for 1,420 yen. This is the fastest and most comfortable way to get into Osaka. While it does cost a bit more, might be worthwhile if you have a Japan Rail Pass to cover the cost.

Coming From Tokyo

Osaka is located 500 kilometers (310 miles) from Tokyo, which means that the journey to get to Osaka from Tokyo can take some time.

The best and most efficient way to get to Osaka from Tokyo is by the shinkansen bullet train, which can make the trip in as little as 2.5 hours, with no transfers required! This route on the Tokaido Shinkansen line is popular, served by multiple shinkansen every hour.

The fastest train class, the Nozomi, will get you from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station in just 2 hours 30 minutes.

If you’ve got the national Japan Rail Pass, good news! Some of the bullet train options will be covered with the pass!

Learning about Japan’s train systems took me hours and hours, so I’ve tried to drill down the info for you as easily as possible. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

• Tokyo and Osaka are connected by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (the bullet train).
• There are different train classes, Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama.
• To reach Osaka from Tokyo: Nozomi trains = 140 minutes (fastest), Hikari trains = 160 minutes, Kodama trains = 4 hours (slowest).
• The Japan Rail Pass is valid on Hikari and Kodama trains, but not on Nozomi trains. Last time I visited, I took the Hikari train with my JR Pass.
• The regular one-way fare from Tokyo to Osaka is about 14,600 yen. A roundtrip ticket would be about 29,000 yen. A 7-day Japan Rail Pass costs about the same as a regular roundtrip ticket.
• The shinkansen arrives at Shin-Osaka Station which is different from Osaka Station. If you need to get to Osaka Station, simply transfer to the JR Tokaido Main Line. In just 4 minutes, you can get from one station to the other.

You can also fly from Tokyo to Osaka, but this is generally more expensive than taking the train.

---

HOW TO GET AROUND OSAKA

Once you’re in Osaka, there are a number of ways to get around. Osaka is a huge city best explored on foot, but there are going to be times when you want to get from one district to another. In these cases, you can take the subway (train), the bus, rent a bike, or taxi.

If you have the JR Pass (either the one that allows for unlimited nationwide travel or even the Kansai Area pass), I recommend taking the train or subway when you can.

Even if you don’t have the JR Pass, I still recommend using the train if you can. It’s the easiest and most straightforward way of getting around town!

A prepaid Icoca card is the easiest and most efficient way to pay for transportation. (If you’ve just come from Tokyo, a Suica or Pasmo card will also work just fine.)

The city also has an extensive bus network–you can get almost anywhere by bus if you know where to board and which bus to board. However, most travelers find the train and subway systems to be faster and easier to use.

Getting around by bike is also a popular option, and if that’s your thing, bikes can be rented from many hotels and shops.

Taxis are easy to find and reasonably priced in Osaka. While taxi-ing around usually is the most expensive option, this option could be a good deal when you have three or four people in your group. Taxis also allow you to reach areas that aren’t well served by public transportation rather quickly.

---

JAPAN: ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST

• Japan Rail Pass | If you’re staying within the Kansai region, the Kansai Area regional pass makes sense. If you’re traveling across Japan (like to/from Tokyo), the national pass can be worth the money.
• Icoca (IC) Card | Super-convenient rechargeable cards that can be used on all major trains, subways, and buses throughout Japan. You can even use them to pay for stuff at the konbini (convenience stores)! Cards can be purchased from train station ticket vending machines or ticket offices.
• Pocket WiFi or eSIM | If your phone carrier does not provide free international data, you’ll probably want to avoid those exorbitant roaming fees. Get around that by renting a pocket WiFi or getting a digital eSIM pass. I personally like Airalo’s eSIM for trips to Japan because it requires no extra stops at the airport — it can be done completely digitally!
• Portable Power Bank | You’re probably going to be out all day, snapping away taking pictures, GPSing to all the great landmarks of Japan. The last thing you want is to be stranded with no phone battery! A portable power bank is a must-have, and Anker’s ultra-light, ultra-portable power bank is tried and true by so many travelers! I never embark on a day of exploration without it.
• Travel Adapter | If you’re traveling internationally from somewhere that doesn’t have USA-style outlet prongs (which are the same as Japan’s), you’re going to need one. This one here is tried and trusted. It allows for a normal plug and has two additional USB ports.
• Jet Lag Prevention | Chances are you will be jetlagged during your first few days in Japan. Don’t let the long flight and time change weigh you down! Here are a few preventative options that’ll help:
  • 1Above Anti Jet Lag Flight Drink Tablets – Super antioxidant drink tablets.
  • Miers Labs Homeopathic Jet Lag Prevention – Helps to alleviate jet lag symptoms that affect the body, prevents disorientation as well as mental and physical fatigue.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes | You will be doing a lot of walking in Japan. Find all my favorite travel shoes here!
• Cash and credit cards
• Important travel documents | Passports, visas, flight tickets, medical cards
• Lastly, be sure to save space in your luggage for souvenirs and snacks to bring home!

---

JAPAN TRAVEL INSURANCE

This is a no-brainer. When traveling internationally, be sure to get yourself some travel insurance.

I’ve heard of too many unfortunate experiences where friends and family have had baggage lost/stolen, hotels canceled, or have had unexpected medical emergencies while traveling where they’ve had to cut their trips short. My partner even had his shoulder dislocated while surfing in Mexico, resulting in a huuuge emergency room bill!

Without travel insurance, you would have to pay out of pocket for these mishaps. This is why I get travel insurance for all my international trips now!

One of the best budget-friendly travel insurances for those traveling outside their home country is SafetyWing.

SafetyWing Insurance provides coverage for unexpected illness or injury, including eligible expenses for hospital, doctor or prescription drugs. This means that if you get ill or injured, they will cover the medical expenses.

In addition, it provides emergency travel-related benefits such as emergency medical evacuation (much needed if you like to go hiking / trekking in the wild), travel delay, and lost checked luggage.

Click here to price out how much travel insurance would be for your trip.

---

Planning Your Trip To Japan?

Here are some of our other Japan travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip!

Tokyo

• 15 Best Hotels In Tokyo Near JR Yamanote Line (With Map)
• 2 Days In Tokyo, Japan: Best Things To Do With Your Time
• The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary In Tokyo, Japan
• Tokyo Travel Tips: 50 Things To Know Before You Go
• 10 Other Cities Worth Visiting Near Tokyo, Japan
• 20 Best Things To Do In Tokyo At Night
• 18+ Best Attractions In Tokyo For Anime Lovers
• 20 Top Things To Do In Shinjuku, Tokyo’s High-Energy District
• Disney Tokyo vs. DisneySea: Which One Is Right For You?
• 10 Of My Favorite Cheap Eats In Tokyo, Japan
• 10 Best Tattoo-Friendly Onsens Near Tokyo, Japan

Kyoto

• The Perfect Kyoto Itinerary: 5 Days In Kyoto, Japan (+ Nara and Osaka)
• 2 Days In Kyoto: The Ultimate Kyoto Highlights Itinerary
• 7 Best Ryokans In Kyoto To Truly Feel Relaxed

Osaka

• Osaka Day Trip From Kyoto: Best Things To Do In Osaka, Japan
• Where To Stay In Osaka, Japan: Neighborhood Guide

Japan In General

• Japan On A Budget: 45 Essential Tips For An Affordable Vacation
• Best Of Japan: The Perfect 2-Week Itinerary For First-Timers
• 18 Popular Foods To Try In Japan
• 15 Amazing Onsen Towns In Japan To Visit On Your Next Trip

Other Posts You’ll Love: