Ōsaka, a Playground for Geek Culture
This excursion is a great way to begin your trip, especially if you’re arriving at Kansai International Airport. From here, it connects perfectly with an itinerary toward Tokyo or Kanazawa, both easily accessible by train.
Japan’s third-largest city, known for its vibrant culture and nightlife, Osaka sits at the heart of the Kansai region, which also includes Nara, Kobe, and Kyoto. Between its shopping districts and theme parks, the city offers endless opportunities for travelers eager to dive into otaku and geek culture. Here is the program we recommend:
Day 1, Osaka: Arrival & Otaku Immersion
After checking in at your hotel in Namba, right in the lively entertainment district, head over to Den-Den Town, Osaka’s iconic geek neighborhood. Browse shops dedicated to anime, trading cards, and retro gaming. For lunch, wander through Kuromon Market, snacking from various stalls or settling into one of its narrow, cozy eateries.
Your afternoon will be all about gaming in the district’s many arcades: Namco, Sega, and more. From classic arcade machines and racing simulators to shooting games, you’ll find plenty to enjoy across your favorite worlds. Mid-afternoon, take a break at one of the city’s many themed cafés, then visit a truly unique temple whose main hall is shaped like a giant lion’s head.
As evening approaches, make your way to the quirky yet charming Shinsekai district to try your hand at ninja-style challenges, including archery and shuriken throwing. Stay for dinner and soak up the bright, retro atmosphere.
Day 2, Osaka: Otaku Adventures, Part II
Spend the morning wandering through stores dedicated to your favourite universes: Capcom, Pokémon, Jump, Ghibli, and more. You’ll find plenty of tempting items—figurines, T-shirts, plushies, and all kinds of merchandise born from Japanese creativity. Afterwards, take part in a Japanese calligraphy workshop and dive into the ancestral art of kanji. A teacher will guide you through the fundamentals of this precise and elegant discipline. For lunch, enjoy a colourful meal in a Pokémon-themed or kawaii café.
In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural break by heading first to Osaka Castle, where you can stroll through its beautiful gardens before visiting the Osaka Museum of History. Learn more about the city’s story from ancient times to today. After a rest at your hotel or in a café, head out at nightfall toward the lively Dōtonbori district: shop at the iconic Don Quijote megastore, take photos on the Ebisu Bridge, and stroll along the canal. Have dinner at one of the many local specialty restaurants—our travel advisors will book the best spots to help you avoid the most touristy places.
Day 3, Osaka: Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
This day is entirely devoted to exploring Universal Studios Japan. You’ll get to experience Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and many more movie- and anime-themed attractions. Your travel advisors will book your tickets in advance and guide you in securing Express Passes, which allow you to skip long lines. The park also offers plenty of rest areas and restaurants for lunch.
In the evening, return to the city and enjoy a relaxed dinner in a local specialty restaurant recommended by your advisor.
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Day 4, Osaka: Pop Culture & Museum
In the morning, visit the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living to learn more about daily life in Osaka in centuries past. Fans of historical anime will love the lifelike reproductions of old town districts, an ideal visit to enjoy in kimono!
Next, head to the Daruma Temple, dedicated to the little red, wide-eyed figures believed to bring wishes to life. Nestled in nature, this renowned temple offers a beautiful stroll through its garden and the wooded hills north of Osaka.
At the end of the day, return to central Osaka for an immersive sensory experience at the TeamLab Botanical Garden Osaka, where light and nature blend into a mesmerizing spectacle.
For the evening, enjoy a light dinner and then sing your heart out in a private karaoke room, with unlimited drinks and a multilingual song selection.
This excursion connects seamlessly with our “Tokyo, Otaku Journey” as part of the Otaku Adventure itinerary.
From Osaka, you can also continue with our “Kanazawa, City of Samurai” excursion.
AYUMI Voyage advisors are here to design a fully tailor-made trip just for you.
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AYUMI Voyage excursions are non-exhaustive suggestions designed to inspire you as you build your tailor-made journey through Japan with our travel specialists. All our itineraries, offers, and optional services are fully customized after a consultation with you.
Itinerary
Otaku adventure
Duration
5 days
4 nights
Location
Ōsaka
Walking duration
Elevation gain
Best time to visit
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recommanded additionnal services
Airport Welcome Service: Osaka is served by Kansai International Airport, located less than an hour south of the city. With our airport welcome service, you can begin your trip with total peace of mind. A guide will meet you upon arrival and escort you directly to your hotel.
Restaurant Reservations: To make sure you don’t miss any of Osaka’s culinary gems, we can arrange dinner reservations at the finest local establishments. Enjoy the city’s specialties in quality restaurants without the hassle of queues.
Activities & Workshops: Kimono Experience
Embrace the otaku spirit by spending a full day dressed in kimono. Follow the itinerary we’ve designed for you while wearing traditional Japanese attire and getas (wooden sandals).
Calligraphy Workshop: Learn the basics of kanji calligraphy with a professional instructor. Choose the kanji of your favorite anime characters and take home your own hand-crafted artwork as a memorable souvenir.
See all our recommanded additionnal services