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Many of those that journey to Japan for the primary time go to Osaka. It serves as the first gateway to Kansai Region and it has quite a bit to supply to vacationers. Along with that, vacationers additionally usually go to Kyoto on the identical journey since it’s Osaka’s neighboring metropolis. These two neighboring cities make for a really colourful Japan journey.
Osaka has a vibrant and trendy vibe. It is thought for its avenue markets, leisure districts, and a haven for meals lovers. Meanwhile, Kyoto transports vacationers to a extra old school world that showcases Japan’s heritage. You can discover historical temples, go to conventional teahouses, and spend time in beautiful gardens. With a mix of previous and new, these two locations will certainly offer you an unforgettable journey.
And should you’re planning a visit to Osaka and Kyoto, we’ll share with you frequent errors vacationers commit so you may keep away from them. We even have a separate article the place we listing down the journey planning dos and don’ts and social fake pas or issues which are thought-about impolite and disrespectful in Japan.
Osaka & Kyoto Travel Mistakes
1. Bad Timing and Big Crowds
Kansai area is undoubtedly certainly one of Japan’s hottest locations, and it’s no shock that a lot of its iconic websites get actually crowded, particularly on weekends and through peak seasons. If you’re visiting well-known spots in Osaka and Kyoto like Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu-dera, you may anticipate massive crowds should you don’t plan forward.
The trick to beating the crowds is easy: stand up early! The earlier you arrive, the less folks you’ll encounter. As the day goes on, extra guests flood the sights. So, if you wish to bag that good Instagram shot with out photobombers, set your alarm and get there earlier than everybody else.
That mentioned, it’s additionally essential to do not forget that most guests have a tendency to stay to particular areas of those websites. For instance, at Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, crowds collect close to the doorway, however should you stroll additional into the location, it’s a lot quieter. At Osaka Castle, there are hidden spots that many overlook, making for good photograph alternatives with out the crowds.
Universal Studios Japan is infamous for being packed, with lengthy wait instances, particularly on weekends. But do you know that faculty subject journeys are sometimes scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays? So, should you can keep away from these days, attempt to go to on a Wednesday or Thursday for a extra relaxed expertise. If you may’t assist however go to on these peak days, attempt to get there early and hit the Harry Potter sights first, as these are likely to have the longest traces.
However, not each crowded spot is a dealbreaker. For locations like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, we truly benefit from the vitality that comes with a little bit of crowd. The festive vibe provides to the appeal of those bustling districts, so don’t stress if there are folks round — simply soak all of it in and benefit from the vigorous environment!
2. Dismissing Osaka Amazing Pass
If you’re visiting Osaka for the primary time, the Osaka Amazing Pass is an absolute must-have! This all-inclusive sightseeing move is available in 1-day and 2-day variations, and it’s filled with worth. Note: If you go for the 2-day move, hold it thoughts that it must be used on two consecutive days.
With the Osaka Amazing Pass, you’ll get limitless entry to the subway, tramway, and bus techniques in Osaka, which is ideal for exploring town with out worrying about transport prices. But what makes this move much more price it’s the free entry to many main sights, together with the long-lasting Osaka Castle Main Tower, the Umeda Building’s Floating Garden Observatory, HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, Tombori River Cruise, Dotonbori Tour, and extra.
The 1-day move prices round JPY 3500 (P1333), whereas the 2-day model is priced at JPY 5000 (P1905). It’s an awesome deal, particularly when you think about that simply the ticket for the Umeda Sky Building Observatory alone is JPY 2000, and the Tombori River Cruise prices JPY 1500. The Osaka Castle Museum additionally costs JPY 600. If you propose on visiting these three sights, you’d be spending JPY 4100! But with the Osaka Amazing Pass, you get all of that plus limitless transportation, making it a serious bang in your buck.
You can get the Osaka Amazing Pass right here!
✅ GET OSAKA AMAZING PASS HERE!
3. Using the Wrong Pass
Aside from the Osaka Amazing Pass, the Kansai Region gives a number of different vacationer passes, every catering to completely different journey wants. The greatest move for you actually depends upon your itinerary, so let’s break it down a bit. Each move has its nuances, so it’s essential to decide on one which matches your journey plans.
If you’re primarily staying inside Osaka City, the Osaka Amazing Pass is your greatest wager. But should you’re exploring past town, including different passes just like the JR West Kansai or Kansai WIDE Pass may assist you to maximize your time and funds. For a clearer image, discuss with the desk under to see which move matches greatest along with your itinerary.
If you’re solely planning to discover the Kansai Region, which incorporates cities like Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and extra, the JR West Kansai Area Pass is a good possibility. It is available in 1 to 4-day variations, however take into account that the utilization days should be consecutive. This move is ideal if a lot of the locations you wish to go to are close to JR stations, because it solely works on JR Lines.
However, in case your goal locations are largely alongside non-JR traces equivalent to Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, or Keihan, the Kansai Railway Pass (previously referred to as the Kansai Thru Pass) is the higher alternative. It covers virtually the identical areas because the JR move, however the main benefit is that you simply don’t must apply it to consecutive days, making it extra versatile in your itinerary.
If you’re planning a day journey or a two-day go to to Kyoto from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass is an efficient alternative. It works on Keihan Lines, which join Osaka and Kyoto. The draw back is that there’s no Keihan station close to Arashiyama, so that you’d want to purchase a separate ticket to achieve that space. However, with this move, you may simply go to Gion District and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Now, if Arashiyama is a must-visit for you and also you’re coming from Osaka, then the Hankyu-Hanshin One-Day Pass is the higher possibility. This move additionally works for touring to Kobe, making it a handy alternative should you’re planning to go to each cities in sooner or later. However, in case your itinerary contains Okayama, Tottori, and even Takamatsu, then you definately’ll want the JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass (emphasis on WIDE), which covers a much wider space.
There are loads of different passes obtainable, and now we have a separate article the place we focus on them in additional element. The passes are positively price it, however since every one has its limitations, it’s uncommon to discover a single move that covers each attraction in your itinerary. With this in thoughts, don’t let the passes dictate your journey. If there’s a spot that you simply actually wish to go to however isn’t lined by your move, simply purchase a separate ticket. After all, you’re already in Japan, so profit from your journey and go wherever your coronary heart takes you!
4. Confusing Train Stations
Many prepare stations in Osaka have similar-sounding names however are operated by completely different railway corporations and serve several types of trains. This might be actually complicated, particularly whenever you’re in a rush or navigating by crowded areas.
Take Namba, for instance. There are three major stations right here:
- Namba Station: served by Nankai Railway and Osaka Subway
- JR Namba Station: operated by JR West
- Osaka Namba Station: serviced by Kintetsu and Hanshin Railways
On a map, these stations appear to be proper subsequent to one another, however in actuality, they’re fairly far aside. Walking from one to a different takes time, and should you’re in a rush and go to the fallacious station, you may miss your prepare.
Another frequent mix-up occurs between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station. Despite their related names, these are two utterly completely different stations, they usually’re not shut to one another. The key distinction? Shin-Osaka Station serves Shinkansen or bullet prepare, whereas Osaka Station doesn’t. The phrase “shin” means “new” in Japanese, and on this case, Shin-Osaka is the newer station.
If you will have a bullet prepare to catch, make sure that to go to Shin-Osaka Station. And when you’re there, do not forget that the Shinkansen has its personal separate entrance, so test the indicators fastidiously and enter the right gate.
5. Sticking to Trains and Taxis
Osaka and Kyoto have intensive prepare networks, and most sights are simply accessible by prepare. However, not all websites have prepare stations close by. In Kyoto particularly, a number of the most essential landmarks are greatest accessed by bus quite than by prepare.
Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto are removed from prepare stations. The first is the Golden Pavilion or Kinkaku-ji Temple, which isn’t alongside any main prepare line. The greatest approach to attain it from Kyoto Station is by taking Bus #205 from the B3 bus terminal in entrance of the station. REMINDER! Just watch out to not board the RAPID 205 bus, because it doesn’t cease close to the temple.
Another main website that’s removed from the prepare traces is Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The nearest prepare station, Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line), is a 25-minute stroll away. If you’d quite reduce that point in half, take a bus as an alternative. The nearest bus cease, Gojozaka, is barely a 12-minute stroll from the temple. While you continue to must stroll uphill, it’s a lot shorter than coming from the prepare station. Plus, the Higashiyama district alongside the best way has plenty of sights to get pleasure from. If you’re coming from Kyoto Station, take Bus #206 or Bus #86 to achieve Gojozaka.
Using Kyoto’s metropolis buses is kind of easy. Most buses have two doorways: one on the entrance, close to the motive force and one other on the again or center. Typically, you board by the rear door. Most buses cost a flat fare, so that you don’t have to faucet your IC card or take a ticket when boarding. When you’re able to get off, exit by the entrance door, the place you’ll pay utilizing an IC card or money. Note: If you select to pay in money, make sure that to have the precise quantity, as no change is given.
If the bus has just one door, at all times let passengers exit first earlier than you board.
As for taxis, we haven’t tried taking one in Osaka or Kyoto as a result of they’re costly. The solely factor we are able to inform you is that the doorways open routinely, which is fairly cool!
6. Staying within the Wrong Area
Osaka and Kyoto supply many nice districts for vacationers, and on the whole, so long as your lodging is close to a prepare station within the metropolis heart, you’ll be positive. The prepare system right here is intensive and dependable, making it simple to get round. However, every district has its personal professionals and cons, so choosing the proper space depends upon your journey plans.
As talked about earlier, Osaka is the same old base for vacationers exploring the area. Here are the favored areas:
Kita Ward
Kita Ward (North Ward) is a best choice for vacationers. This district is residence to Osaka Station and Umeda Station, two of the busiest and most well-connected stations within the area. Many contemplate this space the center of Osaka, particularly when it comes to transportation and purchasing. If you propose to go to Kyoto, Kobe, or Nara, staying in Kita Ward is good as a result of these locations are simply accessible from right here. Plus, long-distance buses to Tokyo additionally depart from this space. The draw back? Hotels right here are usually dearer because of the prime location. However, should you discover the internal components of the district, you may nonetheless discover some inexpensive lodging.
If you’re planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in line with on-line consumer opinions.
Minami Ward
Another implausible space is Minami Ward (South Ward), which incorporates Namba and Dotonbori, two of probably the most vibrant and tourist-friendly areas in Osaka. If you wish to be near Dotonbori’s neon lights, avenue meals, and nightlife, ebook a lodge on this space. Minami Ward can also be a transportation hub, with a number of prepare stations and the Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT), the place you may catch buses to different prefectures like Tottori or Hiroshima.
If you’re planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in line with on-line consumer opinions.
Near Shin-Osaka Station
If you propose to take the Shinkansen or bullet prepare a number of instances and use Osaka as your base, staying close to Shin-Osaka Station is a brilliant alternative. On a latest journey, we stayed at APA Hotel, simply a few blocks from Shin-Osaka Station, and had an awesome expertise. The space is quiet, however there are many comfort shops or konbini and fast-food eating places close by, making it a sensible possibility for vacationers.
If you’re planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in line with on-line consumer opinions.
Search for extra Osaka Hotels!
7. Standing on the Left on the Escalator
In Japan, there’s an unwritten rule with regards to utilizing escalators, and it differs by area. In most components of Japan, together with Tokyo, folks stand on the left aspect, leaving the appropriate aspect open for individuals who wish to stroll or overtake. However, in Kansai Region, it’s the other — folks stand on the RIGHT aspect, and those that wish to stroll or overtake use the left.
The origin of this regional distinction is unsure, however one idea means that it dates again to the Osaka Expo in 1970. According to an article from nikkei.com, organizers adopted the worldwide commonplace of standing on the appropriate for escalator etiquette, and the observe has continued in Kansai ever since. While some query whether or not that is the actual purpose, what’s essential is that in most of Kansai area, folks typically stand on the appropriate when utilizing an escalator.
However, Kyoto is one notable exception. Unlike the remainder of Kansai, locals in Kyoto desire to face on the LEFT, like in Tokyo. But in actuality, escalator etiquette in Kyoto Station might be complicated as a result of some folks stand on the left whereas others stand on the appropriate. This is perhaps because of the massive variety of vacationers from completely different areas, resulting in blended practices.
To keep away from making errors, one of the best method is to watch the folks round you whenever you step onto an escalator. The function of this etiquette is to maintain one aspect open for individuals who have to stroll or are in a rush. So, if everyone seems to be standing on the appropriate, do the identical. If they’re standing on the left, observe swimsuit. This means, you may mix in seamlessly and keep away from blocking people who find themselves dashing.
8. Not Exploring Wider and Further
We’ve talked about earlier that the majority vacationers are likely to flock to a particular spot of a website. For instance, in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, numerous guests keep close to the doorway and don’t enterprise farther in. But there may be a lot extra to Arashiyama than simply its well-known bamboo grove.
Right subsequent to the bamboo forest is Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And but, each time we go to, we discover that whereas the bamboo grove is packed, the temple itself stays comparatively quiet. It’s an awesome place to get pleasure from some peace, however on the identical time, we are able to’t assist however assume that many vacationers are lacking out on seeing this essential historic website.
Beyond the temple, Arashiyama has much more to supply. The Togetsukyo Bridge is a scenic landmark price visiting, whereas Nonomiya Shrine and Horinji Temple supply extra cultural experiences. You also can embark on a yakatabune boat tour, which takes you on a serene trip down the Oi River. The views are breathtaking, particularly throughout autumn, when the foliage is in full show. If you’re fortunate, you may even see a paddling of geese gliding throughout the water. The tour prices round JPY 4000 for 2 folks, with an extra JPY 1000 per further particular person, which could really feel a bit dear, however the expertise is properly price it.
Similarly, should you go to Osaka Castle, many guests solely keep exterior to take pictures. While that’s not essentially a mistake, coming into the citadel is extremely really useful. Inside, you’ll discover displays showcasing Osaka’s wealthy historical past, and it provides you a deeper appreciation of the landmark past simply its beautiful exterior. The entrance charge is JPY 600, however when you have the Osaka Amazing Pass, entry is FREE.
And when you have extra time and funds, don’t restrict your self to simply Osaka and Kyoto — particularly if it’s not your first time visiting. These cities are implausible, however in addition they function jump-off factors to different superb locations. Consider exploring Kobe, Himeji, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, and Mie. If you’ve been to Osaka a number of instances, attempting out these less-visited cities provides you with a contemporary perspective on Kansai’s numerous magnificence.
9. Limiting Your Food Options to Konbini and Fast Food
Japan is a type of international locations the place comfort shops and supermarkets supply an abundance of scrumptious and inexpensive meals. You’ll discover pre-cooked meals that aren’t solely budget-friendly but in addition surprisingly tasty. However, whereas it’s tempting to depend on these choices, it’s essential to discover a steadiness between grocery retailer meals and eating at native eating places. After all, Osaka is taken into account “Japan’s Kitchen“, and Kyoto boasts a powerful variety of Michelin-starred eating places.
Exploring Japan’s meals scene doesn’t must be sophisticated. Sometimes, all it takes is opening your Google Maps app to find a implausible native restaurant close to your lodge. This means, you may absolutely recognize Japan’s wealthy meals tradition. If you’ve had your fill of ramen, attempt switching issues up with a bowl of udon or soba. And whereas takoyaki is a must-try Osaka avenue meals, don’t cease there. Step into an okonomiyaki restaurant to expertise why it’s an Osaka icon and learn the way Kyoto’s betayaki and negiyaki differ from Osaka’s model.
If you’re searching for a extremely really useful meals spot, head to Endo Sushi close to the port. It was the primary sushi bar we ever visited in Japan, and even after a number of journeys, we nonetheless can’t overlook it. In truth, we make it some extent to go to virtually each time we’re in Osaka.
10. Underestimating the Weather
We’ve explored the Kansai Region in all 4 seasons, and the distinction is stark. We’ve skilled getting all sweaty in the summertime and have felt the biting chilly of winter, particularly when venturing past Osaka.
If you’re visiting throughout summer season, significantly in July or August, put on mild, breathable clothes to remain comfy, particularly should you plan on exploring the outside. The warmth and humidity might be intense, so dressing appropriately will assist you to get pleasure from your journey with out feeling overwhelmed by the climate.
For a winter journey, correct outerwear is important, particularly should you plan on climbing or snowboarding. There are many varieties of jackets, and one of the best one depends upon your chilly tolerance and luxury degree. If you will have a excessive tolerance for the chilly, it’s possible you’ll not want too many layers. However, should you’re somebody who will get chilly even from air con, anticipate that you simply may want a puffer jacket together with warmth tech innerwear.
If you’re exploring town in winter, select a jacket that’s simple to take off, as trains and indoor institutions are well-heated. A cumbersome jacket that’s troublesome to take away can change into inconvenient when always shifting between the chilly open air and heat indoor areas. Dressing well for the season ensures you keep comfy and profit from your Kansai journey!
Have Peace of Mind While Traveling!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Travel might be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of surprising delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You can GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive fee.
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2025 5 10 – First uploaded