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 lots 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 school world that showcases Japan’s heritage. You possibly can discover historic temples, go to conventional teahouses, and spend time in beautiful gardens. With a mix of outdated and new, these two locations will certainly offer you an unforgettable journey.
And if you happen to’re planning a visit to Osaka and Kyoto, we’ll share with you frequent errors vacationers commit so you possibly can 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 of impolite and disrespectful in Japan.
Osaka & Kyoto Journey Errors
1. Dangerous Timing and Massive Crowds
Kansai area is undoubtedly one in every 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. When you’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 possibly can anticipate massive crowds if you happen to don’t plan forward.
The trick to beating the crowds is easy: rise 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 mentioned, it’s additionally vital 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 location, it’s a lot quieter. At Osaka Citadel, there are hidden spots that many overlook, making for excellent picture alternatives with out the crowds.
Common Studios Japan is infamous for being packed, with lengthy wait occasions, particularly on weekends. However do you know that college 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. When you 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 traces.
Nonetheless, 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 attraction of those bustling districts, so don’t stress if there are individuals round — simply soak all of it in and benefit from the full of life environment!
2. Dismissing Osaka Wonderful Move
When you’re visiting Osaka for the primary time, the Osaka Wonderful Move is an absolute must-have! This all-inclusive sightseeing go is available in 1-day and 2-day variations, and it’s full of worth. Notice: When you go for the 2-day go, hold it thoughts that it must be used on two consecutive days.
With the Osaka Wonderful Move, you’ll get limitless entry to the subway, tramway, and bus programs in Osaka, which is ideal for exploring town with out worrying about transport prices. However what makes this go much more value it’s the free entry to many main points of interest, together with the long-lasting Osaka Citadel Predominant Tower, the Umeda Constructing’s Floating Backyard Observatory, HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, Tombori River Cruise, Dotonbori Tour, and extra.
The 1-day go prices round JPY 3500 (P1333), whereas the 2-day model is priced at JPY 5000 (P1905). It’s an excellent 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 costs JPY 600. When you plan on visiting these three points of interest, you’d be spending JPY 4100! However with the Osaka Wonderful Move, you get all of that plus limitless transportation, making it a significant bang in your buck.
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3. Utilizing the Incorrect Move
Except for the Osaka Wonderful Move, the Kansai Area provides a number of different vacationer passes, every catering to completely different journey wants. One of the best go for you actually is determined by your itinerary, so let’s break it down a bit. Every go has its nuances, so it’s vital to decide on one which matches your journey plans.
When you’re primarily staying inside Osaka Metropolis, the Osaka Wonderful Move is your finest guess. However if you happen to’re exploring past town, including different passes just like the JR West Kansai or Kansai WIDE Move may enable you to maximize your time and finances. For a clearer image, consult with the desk under to see which go suits finest along with your itinerary.
When you’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 have to be consecutive. This go 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.
Nonetheless, in case your goal locations are principally alongside non-JR traces akin to Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, or Keihan, the Kansai Railway Move (previously often known as the Kansai Through Move) is the higher alternative. It covers nearly the identical areas because the JR go, however the main benefit is that you just don’t should apply it to consecutive days, making it extra versatile in your itinerary.
When you’re planning a day journey or a two-day go to to Kyoto from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Move is an efficient alternative. 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. Nonetheless, with this go, you possibly can 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 go additionally works for touring to Kobe, making it a handy alternative if you happen to’re planning to go to each cities in in the future. Nonetheless, in case your itinerary contains Okayama, Tottori, and even Takamatsu, then you definately’ll want the JR West Kansai Vast Space Move (emphasis on WIDE), which covers a much wider space.
There are many different passes out there, and we’ve a separate article the place we talk about them in additional element. The passes are positively value it, however since each has its limitations, it’s uncommon to discover a single go 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 go, simply purchase a separate ticket. In any case, you’re already in Japan, so take advantage of 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 corporations and serve several types of trains. This may be actually complicated, particularly whenever you’re in a rush or navigating by means of crowded areas.
Take Namba, for instance. There are three most important 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 incorrect station, you may miss your practice.
One other frequent mix-up occurs between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station. Regardless of their related names, these are two utterly completely different stations, they usually’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.
In case you have a bullet practice to catch, ensure that 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. Nonetheless, not all websites have practice stations close by. In Kyoto particularly, a number of the most vital landmarks are finest accessed by bus somewhat 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 website that’s removed from the practice traces is Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The closest practice station, Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line), is a 25-minute stroll away. When you’d somewhat minimize that point in half, take a bus as a substitute. The closest bus cease, Gojozaka, is barely a 12-minute stroll from the temple. When you nonetheless should stroll uphill, it’s a lot shorter than coming from the practice station. Plus, the Higashiyama district alongside the way in which has a lot of points of interest to take pleasure in. When you’re coming from Kyoto Station, take Bus #206 or Bus #86 to succeed in Gojozaka.
Utilizing Kyoto’s metropolis buses is sort of easy. Most buses have two doorways: one on the entrance, close to the driving force and one other on the again or center. Usually, you board by means of 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. Once you’re able to get off, exit by means of the entrance door, the place you’ll pay utilizing an IC card or money. Notice: When you select to pay in money, ensure 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 one factor we will inform you is that the doorways open routinely, which is fairly cool!
6. Staying within the Incorrect Space
Osaka and Kyoto supply many nice districts for vacationers, and generally, so long as your lodging is close to a practice station within the metropolis middle, you’ll be positive. The practice system right here is in depth and dependable, making it simple to get round. Nonetheless, 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 take into account this space the center of Osaka, particularly by way of transportation and purchasing. When you 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? Inns right here are typically costlier as a result of prime location. Nonetheless, if you happen to discover the interior elements of the district, you possibly can nonetheless discover some inexpensive lodging.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in line with on-line person evaluations.
Minami Ward
One other improbable 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, ebook a lodge on this space. Minami Ward can also be a transportation hub, with a number of practice stations and the Osaka Metropolis Air Terminal (OCAT), the place you possibly can catch buses to different prefectures like Tottori or Hiroshima.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in line with on-line person evaluations.
Close to Shin-Osaka Station
When you plan to take the Shinkansen or bullet practice a number of occasions and use Osaka as your base, staying close to Shin-Osaka Station is a brilliant alternative. On a current journey, we stayed at APA Resort, simply a few blocks from Shin-Osaka Station, and had an excellent 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.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed below are a number of the top-rated properties in line with on-line person evaluations.
Seek for extra Osaka Inns!
7. Standing on the Left on the Escalator
In Japan, there’s an unwritten rule relating to utilizing escalators, and it differs by area. In most elements of Japan, together with Tokyo, individuals stand on the left facet, leaving the fitting facet open for many who need to stroll or overtake. Nonetheless, in Kansai Area, it’s the other — individuals stand on the RIGHT facet, and people who need to stroll or overtake use the left.
The origin of this regional distinction is unsure, however one concept means that it dates again to the Osaka Expo in 1970. In line with an article from nikkei.com, organizers adopted the worldwide normal of standing on the fitting for escalator etiquette, and the follow has continued in Kansai ever since. Whereas some query whether or not that is the actual cause, what’s vital is that in most of Kansai area, individuals usually stand on the fitting when utilizing an escalator.
Nonetheless, Kyoto is one notable exception. In contrast to the remainder of Kansai, locals in Kyoto desire 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 fitting. This could be as a result of massive variety of vacationers from completely different areas, resulting in blended practices.
To keep away from making errors, the very best method is to watch the individuals round you whenever you step onto an escalator. The aim of this etiquette is to maintain one facet open for many who have to stroll or are in a rush. So, if everyone seems to be standing on the fitting, do the identical. In the event that they’re standing on the left, observe swimsuit. This manner, you possibly can mix in seamlessly and keep away from blocking people who find themselves dashing.
8. Not Exploring Wider and Additional
We’ve talked about earlier that the majority vacationers are inclined to flock to a particular spot of a website. For instance, in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a whole lot of guests keep close to the doorway and don’t enterprise farther in. However there’s 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 Website. 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 excellent place to take pleasure in some peace, however on the similar time, we will’t assist however suppose that many vacationers are lacking out on seeing this vital historic website.
Past the temple, Arashiyama has much more to supply. The Togetsukyo Bridge is a scenic landmark value visiting, whereas Nonomiya Shrine and Horinji Temple supply further cultural experiences. You can even embark on a yakatabune boat tour, which takes you on a serene experience down the Oi River. The views are breathtaking, particularly throughout autumn, when the foliage is in full show. When you’re fortunate, you may even see a paddling of geese gliding throughout the water. The tour prices round JPY 4000 for 2 individuals, with a further JPY 1000 per additional individual, which could really feel a bit expensive, however the expertise is nicely value it.
Equally, if you happen to go to Osaka Citadel, many guests solely keep exterior to take images. Whereas that’s not essentially a mistake, getting into the citadel is extremely beneficial. Inside, you’ll discover reveals showcasing Osaka’s wealthy historical past, and it provides you a deeper appreciation of the landmark past simply its beautiful exterior. The doorway price is JPY 600, however if in case you have the Osaka Wonderful Move, entry is FREE.
And if in case you have extra time and finances, don’t restrict your self to simply Osaka and Kyoto — particularly if it’s not your first time visiting. These cities are improbable, however additionally they function jump-off factors to different wonderful locations. Take into account exploring Kobe, Himeji, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, and Mie. When you’ve been to Osaka a number of occasions, making an attempt out these less-visited cities provides you with a recent perspective on Kansai’s numerous magnificence.
9. Limiting Your Meals Choices to Konbini and Quick Meals
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 additionally surprisingly tasty. Nonetheless, whereas it’s tempting to depend on these choices, it’s vital to discover a stability 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 should be sophisticated. Generally, all it takes is opening your Google Maps app to find a improbable native restaurant close to your lodge. This manner, you possibly can totally respect Japan’s wealthy meals tradition. When you’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.
When you’re on the lookout for a extremely beneficial 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 neglect it. The truth is, we make it a degree to go to nearly 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.
When you’re visiting throughout summer time, significantly 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 enable 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 mountain climbing or snowboarding. There are lots of forms of jackets, and the very best one is determined by your chilly tolerance and luxury degree. In case you have a excessive tolerance for the chilly, you could not want too many layers. Nonetheless, if you happen to’re somebody who will get chilly even from air con, anticipate that you just may want a puffer jacket together with warmth tech innerwear.
When 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 tough to take away can grow to be inconvenient when continually shifting between the chilly outdoor and heat indoor areas. Dressing well for the season ensures you keep snug and take advantage of your Kansai journey!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is elective, however we extremely suggest 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 surprising delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, take into account PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive charge.
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