A lot of those that journey to Japan for the primary time go to Osaka. It serves as the first gateway to Kansai Area and it has so much to supply to vacationers. Together with that, vacationers additionally typically 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 fashionable vibe. It’s identified for its road markets, leisure districts, and a haven for meals lovers. In the meantime, Kyoto transports vacationers to a extra old style world that showcases Japan’s heritage. You possibly can discover historic temples, go to conventional teahouses, and spend time in gorgeous gardens. With a mix of outdated and new, these two locations will certainly provide you with an unforgettable journey.
And if you happen to’re planning a visit to Osaka and Kyoto, we’ll share with you widespread errors vacationers commit so you may keep away from them. We even have a separate article the place we record down the journey planning dos and don’ts and social fake pas or issues which can be thought-about impolite and disrespectful in Japan.
Osaka & Kyoto Journey Errors
1. Dangerous Timing and Huge Crowds
Kansai area is undoubtedly one in every of Japan’s hottest locations, and it’s no shock that lots of its iconic websites get actually crowded, particularly on weekends and through peak seasons. For those who’re visiting well-known spots in Osaka and Kyoto like Osaka Citadel, Common Studios Japan, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu-dera, you may count on massive crowds if you happen to don’t plan forward.
The trick to beating the crowds is straightforward: stand up early! The sooner you arrive, the less individuals you’ll encounter. Because the day goes on, extra guests flood the points of interest. So, if you wish to bag that excellent Instagram shot with out photobombers, set your alarm and get there earlier than everybody else.
That stated, it’s additionally necessary 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 if you happen to stroll additional into the positioning, it’s a lot quieter. At Osaka Citadel, there are hidden spots that many overlook, making for excellent photograph alternatives with out the crowds.
Common Studios Japan is infamous for being packed, with lengthy wait instances, particularly on weekends. However do you know that faculty subject journeys are sometimes scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays? So, if you happen to can keep away from these days, attempt to go to on a Wednesday or Thursday for a extra relaxed expertise. For those who can’t assist however go to on these peak days, attempt to get there early and hit the Harry Potter points of interest first, as these are inclined to have the longest strains.
Nevertheless, not each crowded spot is a dealbreaker. For locations like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, we really benefit from the power that comes with a little bit of crowd. The festive vibe provides to the attraction of those bustling districts, so don’t stress if there are individuals round — simply soak all of it in and benefit from the vigorous ambiance!
2. Dismissing Osaka Superb Move
For those who’re visiting Osaka for the primary time, the Osaka Superb Move is an absolute must-have! This all-inclusive sightseeing move is available in 1-day and 2-day variations, and it’s full of worth. Be aware: For those who go for the 2-day move, hold it thoughts that it must be used on two consecutive days.
With the Osaka Superb Move, you’ll get limitless entry to the subway, tramway, and bus methods in Osaka, which is ideal for exploring town with out worrying about transport prices. However what makes this move much more price it’s the free entry to many main points of interest, together with the enduring Osaka Citadel Major Tower, the Umeda Constructing’s Floating Backyard 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 ideal deal, particularly when you think about that simply the ticket for the Umeda Sky Constructing Observatory alone is JPY 2000, and the Tombori River Cruise prices JPY 1500. The Osaka Citadel Museum additionally prices JPY 600. For those who plan on visiting these three points of interest, you’d be spending JPY 4100! However with the Osaka Superb Move, you get all of that plus limitless transportation, making it a significant bang on your buck.
You may get the Osaka Superb Move right here!
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3. Utilizing the Fallacious Move
Except for the Osaka Superb Move, the Kansai Area affords a number of different vacationer passes, every catering to completely different journey wants. The perfect move for you actually is determined by your itinerary, so let’s break it down a bit. Every move has its nuances, so it’s necessary to decide on one which matches your journey plans.
For those who’re primarily staying inside Osaka Metropolis, the Osaka Superb Move is your greatest guess. However if you happen to’re exploring past town, including different passes just like the JR West Kansai or Kansai WIDE Move may assist you to maximize your time and funds. For a clearer image, seek advice from the desk beneath to see which move suits greatest together with your itinerary.
For those who’re solely planning to discover the Kansai Area, which incorporates cities like Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and extra, the JR West Kansai Space Move is a good possibility. It is available in 1 to 4-day variations, however remember that the utilization days should be consecutive. This move is ideal if a lot of the locations you need to go to are close to JR stations, because it solely works on JR Traces.
Nevertheless, in case your goal locations are largely alongside non-JR strains reminiscent of Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, or Keihan, the Kansai Railway Move (previously often known as the Kansai Through Move) is the higher selection. It covers virtually the identical areas because the JR move, however the main benefit is that you just don’t must apply it to consecutive days, making it extra versatile on your itinerary.
For those who’re planning a day journey or a two-day go to to Kyoto from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Move is an efficient selection. It really works on Keihan Traces, 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 succeed in that space. Nevertheless, 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 Move is the higher possibility. This move additionally works for touring to Kobe, making it a handy selection if you happen to’re planning to go to each cities in sooner or later. Nevertheless, in case your itinerary contains Okayama, Tottori, and even Takamatsu, then you definitely’ll want the JR West Kansai Extensive Space Move (emphasis on WIDE), which covers a much wider space.
There are many different passes out there, and we’ve got a separate article the place we focus on them in additional element. The passes are undoubtedly price it, however since each 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 just actually need to go to however isn’t coated by your move, simply purchase a separate ticket. In any case, you’re already in Japan, so profit from your journey and go wherever your coronary heart takes you!
4. Complicated Prepare Stations
Many practice stations in Osaka have similar-sounding names however are operated by completely different railway firms and serve various kinds of trains. This may be actually complicated, particularly if you’re in a rush or navigating by way of crowded areas.
Take Namba, for instance. There are three essential 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. Strolling from one to a different takes time, and if you happen to’re in a rush and go to the flawed station, you may miss your practice.
One other widespread mix-up occurs between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station. Regardless of their related names, these are two fully completely different stations, and so they’re not shut to one another. The important thing distinction? Shin-Osaka Station serves Shinkansen or bullet practice, whereas Osaka Station doesn’t. The phrase “shin” means “new” in Japanese, and on this case, Shin-Osaka is the newer station.
When you have a bullet practice to catch, ensure to go to Shin-Osaka Station. And when you’re there, do not forget that the Shinkansen has its personal separate entrance, so examine the indicators fastidiously and enter the right gate.
5. Sticking to Trains and Taxis
Osaka and Kyoto have in depth practice networks, and most points of interest are simply accessible by practice. Nevertheless, not all websites have practice stations close by. In Kyoto particularly, a few of the most necessary landmarks are greatest accessed by bus quite than by practice.
Two UNESCO World Heritage Websites in Kyoto are removed from practice stations. The primary is the Golden Pavilion or Kinkaku-ji Temple, which isn’t alongside any main practice line. One of the simplest ways to succeed in it from Kyoto Station is by taking Bus #205 from the B3 bus terminal in entrance of the station. REMINDER! Simply watch out to not board the RAPID 205 bus, because it doesn’t cease close to the temple.
One other main web site that’s removed from the practice strains is Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The closest practice station, Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line), is a 25-minute stroll away. For those who’d quite reduce that point in half, take a bus as a substitute. The closest bus cease, Gojozaka, is just a 12-minute stroll from the temple. When you nonetheless must stroll uphill, it’s a lot shorter than coming from the practice station. Plus, the Higashiyama district alongside the way in which has numerous points of interest to take pleasure in. For those who’re coming from Kyoto Station, take Bus #206 or Bus #86 to succeed in Gojozaka.
Utilizing 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. Usually, you board by way of the rear door. Most buses cost a flat fare, so that you don’t must faucet your IC card or take a ticket when boarding. Once you’re able to get off, exit by way of the entrance door, the place you’ll pay utilizing an IC card or money. Be aware: For those who select to pay in money, ensure 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 one factor we are able to let you know is that the doorways open mechanically, which is fairly cool!
6. Staying within the Fallacious Space
Osaka and Kyoto provide many nice districts for vacationers, and basically, so long as your lodging is close to a practice station within the metropolis middle, you’ll be high quality. The practice system right here is in depth and dependable, making it simple to get round. Nevertheless, every district has its personal professionals and cons, so selecting the best space is determined by your journey plans.
As talked about earlier, Osaka is the same old base for vacationers exploring the area. Listed here are the favored areas:
Kita Ward
Kita Ward (North Ward) is a best choice for vacationers. This district is house to Osaka Station and Umeda Station, two of the busiest and most well-connected stations within the area. Many contemplate this space the guts of Osaka, particularly when it comes to transportation and buying. For those who plan 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? Accommodations right here are typically dearer because of the prime location. Nevertheless, if you happen to discover the inside components of the district, you may nonetheless discover some inexpensive lodging.
If you’re planning to remain on this space, listed below are a few of the top-rated properties based on on-line person opinions.
Minami Ward
One other implausible space is Minami Ward (South Ward), which incorporates Namba and Dotonbori, two of essentially the most vibrant and tourist-friendly areas in Osaka. If you wish to be near Dotonbori’s neon lights, road meals, and nightlife, e book a lodge on this space. Minami Ward can be a transportation hub, with a number of practice stations and the Osaka Metropolis 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 few of the top-rated properties based on on-line person opinions.
Close to Shin-Osaka Station
For those who plan to take the Shinkansen or bullet practice a number of instances and use Osaka as your base, staying close to Shin-Osaka Station is a great selection. On a current journey, we stayed at APA Resort, simply a few blocks from Shin-Osaka Station, and had an ideal expertise. The world 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 few of the top-rated properties based on on-line person opinions.
Seek for extra Osaka Accommodations!
7. Standing on the Left on the Escalator
In Japan, there’s an unwritten rule on the subject of utilizing escalators, and it differs by area. In most components of Japan, together with Tokyo, individuals stand on the left aspect, leaving the precise aspect open for many who need to stroll or overtake. Nevertheless, in Kansai Area, it’s the alternative — individuals stand on the RIGHT aspect, and people who need to stroll or overtake use the left.
The origin of this regional distinction is unsure, however one principle means that it dates again to the Osaka Expo in 1970. Based on an article from nikkei.com, organizers adopted the worldwide commonplace of standing on the precise for escalator etiquette, and the follow has continued in Kansai ever since. Whereas some query whether or not that is the true cause, what’s necessary is that in most of Kansai area, individuals typically stand on the precise when utilizing an escalator.
Nevertheless, Kyoto is one notable exception. In contrast to the remainder of Kansai, locals in Kyoto want to face on the LEFT, like in Tokyo. However in actuality, escalator etiquette in Kyoto Station will be complicated as a result of some individuals stand on the left whereas others stand on the precise. This may be because of the massive variety of vacationers from completely different areas, resulting in blended practices.
To keep away from making errors, the very best method is to look at the individuals round you if you step onto an escalator. The aim of this etiquette is to maintain one aspect open for many who must stroll or are in a rush. So, if everyone seems to be standing on the precise, do the identical. In the event that they’re standing on the left, observe swimsuit. This manner, you may mix in seamlessly and keep away from blocking people who find themselves speeding.
8. Not Exploring Wider and Additional
We’ve talked about earlier that almost all vacationers are inclined to flock to a selected spot of a web site. For instance, in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a number of guests keep close to the doorway and don’t enterprise farther in. However there may be a lot extra to Arashiyama than simply its well-known bamboo grove.
Proper subsequent to the bamboo forest is Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Web 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 ideal place to take pleasure in some peace, however on the similar time, we are able to’t assist however suppose that many vacationers are lacking out on seeing this necessary historic web site.
Past the temple, Arashiyama has much more to supply. The Togetsukyo Bridge is a scenic landmark price visiting, whereas Nonomiya Shrine and Horinji Temple provide further cultural experiences. You may as well embark on a yakatabune boat tour, which takes you on a serene journey down the Oi River. The views are breathtaking, particularly throughout autumn, when the foliage is in full show. For those who’re fortunate, you may even see a paddling of geese gliding throughout the water. The tour prices round JPY 4000 for 2 individuals, with an extra JPY 1000 per additional particular person, which could really feel a bit dear, however the expertise is nicely price it.
Equally, if you happen to go to Osaka Citadel, many guests solely keep outdoors to take photographs. Whereas that’s not essentially a mistake, coming into the citadel is very advisable. Inside, you’ll discover displays showcasing Osaka’s wealthy historical past, and it provides you a deeper appreciation of the landmark past simply its gorgeous exterior. The doorway charge is JPY 600, however when you have the Osaka Superb Move, entry is FREE.
And when you have extra time and funds, don’t restrict your self to only Osaka and Kyoto — particularly if it’s not your first time visiting. These cities are implausible, however additionally they function jump-off factors to different wonderful locations. Think about exploring Kobe, Himeji, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, and Mie. For those who’ve been to Osaka a number of instances, attempting out these less-visited cities will provide you with a contemporary perspective on Kansai’s various magnificence.
9. Limiting Your Meals Choices to Konbini and Quick Meals
Japan is a kind of nations the place comfort shops and supermarkets provide an abundance of scrumptious and inexpensive meals. You’ll discover pre-cooked meals that aren’t solely budget-friendly but in addition surprisingly tasty. Nevertheless, whereas it’s tempting to depend on these choices, it’s necessary to discover a steadiness between grocery retailer meals and eating at native eating places. In any case, Osaka is taken into account “Japan’s Kitchen“, and Kyoto boasts a formidable variety of Michelin-starred eating places.
Exploring Japan’s meals scene doesn’t must be difficult. Generally, all it takes is opening your Google Maps app to find a implausible native restaurant close to your lodge. This manner, you may totally recognize Japan’s wealthy meals tradition. For those who’ve had your fill of ramen, strive switching issues up with a bowl of udon or soba. And whereas takoyaki is a must-try Osaka road meals, don’t cease there. Step into an okonomiyaki restaurant to expertise why it’s an Osaka icon and find out how Kyoto’s betayaki and negiyaki differ from Osaka’s model.
For those who’re on the lookout for a extremely advisable 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 actual fact, we make it some extent to go to virtually each time we’re in Osaka.
10. Underestimating the Climate
We’ve explored the Kansai Area 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.
For those who’re visiting throughout summer time, notably in July or August, put on mild, breathable clothes to remain snug, particularly if you happen to plan on exploring the outside. The warmth and humidity will be intense, so dressing appropriately will assist you to take pleasure in your journey with out feeling overwhelmed by the climate.
For a winter journey, correct outerwear is important, particularly if you happen to plan on climbing or snowboarding. There are various sorts of jackets, and the very best one is determined by your chilly tolerance and luxury degree. When you have a excessive tolerance for the chilly, chances are you’ll not want too many layers. Nevertheless, if you happen to’re somebody who will get chilly even from air-con, count on that you just may want a puffer jacket together with warmth tech innerwear.
For those who’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 grow to be inconvenient when continually transferring between the chilly open air and heat indoor areas. Dressing well for the season ensures you keep snug and profit from your Kansai journey!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-compulsory, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey will be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive price.
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