Must-visit places in Universal Studios Japan

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Central Osaka Morning Osaka Castle – One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, with beautiful gardens. Osaka Museum of History (optional) – Offers a great overview of the city's history. Afternoon Shinsaibashi Shopping Street – Explore Osaka’s best shopping area. Dotonbori – Famous for neon lights, Glico Sign, and food stalls. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake). Evening Hozenji Yokocho – A narrow alley with traditional izakayas (Japanese pubs). Umeda Sky Building – Go up to the Floating Garden Observatory for a city night view. Day 2: Universal Studios Japan Spend the whole day at Universal Studios Japan (USJ). Enjoy attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Hollywood Dream roller coasters. Have dinner at CityWalk Osaka outside USJ. Day 3: Day Trip to Nara or Kobe Option 1: Nara (History & Nature) Morning Nara Park – Meet friendly deer. Todai-ji Temple – Houses Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue. Kasuga Taisha Shrine – Famous for its lantern-lined paths. Afternoon Kofuku-ji Temple – A beautiful five-story pagoda. Explore Naramachi, a preserved old town with small shops and cafes. Option 2: Kobe (Food & Harbor Views) Morning Kobe Harborland & Meriken Park – Scenic waterfront area. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens – Great views of the city and fresh air. Afternoon Kitano-cho – A district with Western-style houses. Try Kobe Beef at a local steakhouse like Wakkoqu or Mouriya. Day 4: Traditional & Modern Osaka Morning Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine – One of Osaka’s oldest shrines, known for its beautiful bridge. Spa World (optional) – A large onsen (hot spring) theme park. Afternoon Shinsekai & Tsutenkaku Tower – Retro district famous for kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Kuromon Ichiba Market – Try fresh sushi, seafood, and Japanese snacks. Evening TeamLab Botanical Garden Osaka (optional) – Beautiful light art installations. Dotonbori River Cruise – Relax and enjoy Osaka’s vibrant nightlife. Day 5: Shopping & Departure Morning Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – One of the best aquariums in Japan. Tempozan Ferris Wheel – Great city views. Afternoon Last-minute shopping at Namba Parks or Rinku Premium Outlets (if you have time before your flight). Head to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for departure.