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Including a visit to Universal Studios Japan! Introducing a 3-day, 2-night Osaka sightseeing itinerary
Including a visit to Universal Studios Japan! Introducing a 3-day, 2-night Osaka sightseeing itinerary

Including a visit to Universal Studios Japan! Introducing a 3-day, 2-night Osaka sightseeing itinerary

Mar 21, 2025
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Make the most of Osaka in 3 days and 2 nights! This itinerary covers must-visit attractions like the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and USJ, as well as Osaka’s famous local street food. We’ll introduce a 3-day, 2-night sightseeing model course to help you experience the best of Osaka! Save money by booking a package that includes both flights and a hotel.

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Including a visit to Universal Studios Japan! Introducing a 3-day, 2-night Osaka sightseeing itinerary

1. Budget and hotel plans for a 3-day, 2-night trip to Osaka

If you're traveling from Tokyo to Osaka, a round-trip flight typically costs around 30,000 yen. Additionally, assuming a hotel stay costs around 10,000 yen per night, a 3-day, 2-night trip would come to approximately 50,000 yen per person.

Of course, airfare can vary depending on the season, so be sure to check for the best deals to make your trip more affordable!

Choosing a flight and hotel package can make your Osaka trip even more cost-effective. While there may be some limitations on hotel choices and flight times, a bundled plan is highly recommended for those planning to stay overnight for sightseeing.

There are also budget-friendly tour packages available, so be sure to check them out!

2. How to get from Itami Airport to Osaka Station

To get from Itami Airport to Osaka Station, you generally have two options: a limousine bus or a monorail and train combination. If you prioritize comfort, the limousine bus is the best choice, while the monorail is a more budget-friendly option.

The limousine bus takes you directly from the bus stop at Itami Airport to Osaka Station, making it a hassle-free option. The travel time is around 30 minutes, and the fare is 650 yen. However, during peak hours in the morning or evening, traffic congestion may extend the travel time to nearly an hour.

When taking the limousine bus, be mindful of your boarding and drop-off locations. The departure stops at Itami Airport are split into two sections, so be sure to check which stop you need.

Additionally, when heading to Itami Airport from Osaka Station, note that the limousine bus stops at both the South Terminal and North Terminal, so double-check your terminal before arrival.

If you want a cheaper and faster option, consider taking the monorail and train.

Take the Osaka Monorail from Osaka Airport Station and transfer at Hotarugaike Station to the Hankyu Takarazuka Line. From there, take the train to Umeda Station. (Although the station names differ, Umeda Station is directly connected to Osaka Station.) The total travel time is about 30 minutes, and the fare is 430 yen.

3. 【Osaka Sightseeing – Day 1】

Now, let's dive into the recommended model course for sightseeing in Osaka!

For the first day, exploring the Bay Area is a great choice. This area features some of Osaka’s most famous attractions, such as the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, making it perfect for both families and couples.

● Visit "Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan," one of the world's largest aquariums

Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world. The highlight of this attraction is the underwater tunnel, where you can experience the surreal sight of fish swimming overhead. Another must-see is the whale shark, the largest fish in the world.

There are only five aquariums in Japan where you can see a whale shark, making this a rare and valuable experience. Its sheer size is truly breathtaking!

Additionally, the "Jellyfish Galaxy" exhibit has recently gained popularity on Instagram for its aesthetic appeal. The sight of numerous jellyfish drifting in the dark is mesmerizing, almost like a piece of art.

■ Name: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
■ Address: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: About a 5-minute walk from "Osaka Port Station" on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line
■ Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Hours may vary depending on the season)
■ Closed: Open year-round
■ Admission Fee: Adults 2,700 yen, Elementary & Middle School Students 1,400 yen (As of February 2023)
■ Official Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/

● Enjoy Osaka's skyline from the "Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel"

After admiring the marine animals at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, take a ride on the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel located right next to it.

This massive Ferris wheel, considered one of the largest in the world, stands 112.5 meters high with a diameter of 100 meters. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of USJ and Tempozan, and the night view is especially stunning.

■ Name: Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
■ Address: 3-11-8 Chikko, Minato-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: About a 10-minute walk from "Osaka Port Station" on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line
■ Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
■ Closed: Irregular holidays
■ Admission Fee: General (ages 3 and up) 800 yen (as of February 2023)
■ Official Website: http://www.senyo.co.jp/tempozan/index.html

● Take the Captain Line to USJ

After taking in the panoramic view from the Ferris wheel, hop on the Captain Line, a convenient water shuttle that connects Kaiyukan West Pier to Universal City Port in about 16 minutes.

■ Name: Captain Line
■ Access: About a 5-minute walk from "Osaka Port Station" on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line
■ Fare: One-way: Adults 900 yen | Round-trip: Adults 1,700 yen (as of February 2023)
■ Official Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/captline/

● Have dinner at "Universal CityWalk Osaka"

Near USJ, you'll find Universal CityWalk Osaka, a shopping mall that brings an American atmosphere to Osaka. It’s a great place to enjoy a variety of foods for dinner while soaking up the theme park vibes.

■ Name: Universal CityWalk Osaka
■ Address: 6-2-61 Shimaya, Konohana-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: Directly accessible from JR Universal City Station
■ Business Hours: Restaurants: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
■ Closed: Open year-round
■ Official Website: https://ucw.jp/

4. 【Osaka Sightseeing – Day 2: Universal Studios Japan】

On the second day, spend the entire day having a blast at Universal Studios Japan (USJ)!

It’s no exaggeration to say that USJ is now Osaka’s top tourist attraction. While Tokyo Disneyland remains the most popular theme park in Japan, USJ has been catching up rapidly in recent years.

■ Name: Universal Studios Japan
■ Address: 2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: About a 5-minute walk from "Universal City Station" on the JR Sakurajima Line (Yumesaki Line)
■ Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM (subject to change depending on the day of the week)
■ Closed: Open year-round (may close due to weather conditions)
■ Admission Fee: 1-Day Studio Pass: Adults 8,600 yen and up (varies by day), Ages 4–11 5,600 yen (as of February 2023)
■ Official Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/

● The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Universal Studios Japan features an impressive selection of attractions based on famous movies such as Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Spider-Man, and Terminator, as well as beloved characters like Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and Sesame Street. Visitors can also enjoy live character performances, all of which boast outstanding quality.

Even adults can spend an entire day having fun here, and the high number of repeat visitors is a testament to the park’s popularity.

● "Hollywood Area" and "New York Area"

Inside the park, you’ll find areas like "Hollywood Area" and "New York Area", giving you the feeling of walking through the streets of America.

There’s so much to see and do that time will never feel like enough, so be sure to plan your schedule wisely to make the most of your visit!

Additionally, seasonal events such as Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations are held throughout the year. Visiting during these special times will enhance your experience.

The park also offers a variety of movie- and character-themed food and souvenirs, so consider picking up something as a keepsake of your trip.

5. 【Osaka Sightseeing – Day 3】

● Visit the observation deck at "Tsutenkaku"

On your third day, explore Osaka’s downtown area. Start your day by visiting Tsutenkaku, one of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks. The observation deck offers a panoramic view of the city.

The 4th floor features the "Luminous Observation Deck" (84m high), which transforms into a disco-like atmosphere at night with mirror balls and colorful lights. The 5th floor is the "Golden Observation Deck" (87.5m high), where you can admire the Golden Billiken Shrine.

For those who want to enjoy the fresh air, you can climb the stairs to an outdoor area for an additional 500 yen (registration at the 5th-floor information counter). The TIP THE TSUTENKAKU platform (92.5m high, 5.4m long, 1.5m wide) has a see-through floor, making it an exhilarating experience.

■ Name: Tsutenkaku
■ Address: 1-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: About a 5-minute walk from "Ebisucho Station" on the Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line
■ Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
■ Closed: Open year-round
■ Admission Fee:
【Special Outdoor Observation Deck Set】 Adults 1,200 yen, Children (5 years to middle school) 600 yen
【General Observation Deck】 Adults 900 yen, Children (5 years to middle school) 400 yen (as of February 2023)
■ Official Website: https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/

● Stroll and enjoy street food in "Shinsekai"

Next, experience one of Osaka’s greatest pleasures – street food! Shinsekai, located near Tsutenkaku, is a retro-style district reminiscent of Japan’s Showa era and is a favorite among tourists. Enjoy strolling through the area, sampling local street food, and hopping between small eateries to taste some of Osaka’s best B-grade gourmet dishes at affordable prices.

■ Name: Shinsekai
■ Address: 1 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: About a 5-minute walk from "Ebisucho Station" on the Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line
■ Official Website: http://shinsekai.net/

● Have fun at "Tennoji Zoo"

Osaka’s downtown area is also home to Tennoji Zoo, the second-largest zoo in Japan. Inside the zoo, you’ll find an interactive petting area where visitors can feed sheep and goats, making it an enjoyable stop for families and animal lovers.

■ Name: Tennoji Zoo
■ Address: 1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: About a 10-minute walk from "Dobutsuen-mae Station" on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line
■ Business Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (subject to seasonal changes)
■ Closed: Mondays
■ Admission Fee: Adults 500 yen, Elementary & Middle School Students 200 yen (as of February 2023)
■ Official Website: https://www.tennojizoo.jp/

● Take in the views from the observation deck of "Abeno Harukas"

For a final sightseeing stop, visit Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in Japan. From the Harukas 300 Observation Deck, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka. It’s the perfect way to capture a last look at the city before your trip ends.

■ Name: Abeno Harukas
■ Address: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka, Japan
■ Access: About a 5-minute walk from "Osaka Abenobashi Station" on the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line or "Tennoji Station" on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line
■ Business Hours:
【Kintetsu Main Store】 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies by floor)
【Harukas 300 Observation Deck】 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
■ Closed: Open year-round
■ Admission Fee:
【Harukas 300】 Adults 1,500 yen, Middle & High School Students 1,200 yen, Elementary School Students 700 yen (as of February 2023)
■ Official Website: http://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/

◎ Summary

This itinerary focused on sightseeing around Universal Studios Japan. However, Osaka offers countless attractions, making it an exciting destination to visit multiple times. To enjoy a budget-friendly Osaka trip, check out Skyticket's special travel packages and discounted tour plans. Have a fantastic trip to Osaka!

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