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 loads to supply to vacationers. Together with that, vacationers additionally usually 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 trendy 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 may discover historic temples, go to conventional teahouses, and spend time in gorgeous gardens. With a mix of previous 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 may keep away from them. We even have a separate article the place we checklist down the journey planning dos and don’ts and social fake pas or issues which can be thought of impolite and disrespectful in Japan.
Osaka & Kyoto Journey Errors
1. Unhealthy Timing and Large Crowds
Kansai area is undoubtedly certainly one 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. If you happen to’re visiting well-known spots in Osaka and Kyoto like Osaka Fortress, Common Studios Japan, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu-dera, you may anticipate giant 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 folks you’ll encounter. Because the day goes on, extra guests flood the points of interest. So, if you wish to bag that good 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 location, it’s a lot quieter. At Osaka Fortress, there are hidden spots that many overlook, making for good 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 college area journeys are usually 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. If you happen to 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 truly benefit from the vitality that comes with a little bit of crowd. The festive vibe provides to the appeal of those bustling districts, so don’t stress if there are folks round — simply soak all of it in and benefit from the full of life ambiance!
2. Dismissing Osaka Superb Cross
If you happen to’re visiting Osaka for the primary time, the Osaka Superb Cross is an absolute must-have! This all-inclusive sightseeing move is available in 1-day and 2-day variations, and it’s filled with worth. Observe: If you happen to go for the 2-day move, maintain it thoughts that it must be used on two consecutive days.
With the Osaka Superb Cross, you’ll get limitless entry to the subway, tramway, and bus techniques in Osaka, which is ideal for exploring the town with out worrying about transport prices. However what makes this move much more value it’s the free entry to many main points of interest, together with the enduring Osaka Fortress Fundamental 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 incredible 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 Fortress Museum additionally expenses JPY 600. If you happen to plan on visiting these three points of interest, you’d be spending JPY 4100! However with the Osaka Superb Cross, you get all of that plus limitless transportation, making it a significant bang to your buck.
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3. Utilizing the Flawed Cross
Other than the Osaka Superb Cross, the Kansai Area provides a number of different vacationer passes, every catering to completely different journey wants. The very best 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.
If you happen to’re primarily staying inside Osaka Metropolis, the Osaka Superb Cross is your greatest wager. However if you happen to’re exploring past the town, including different passes just like the JR West Kansai or Kansai WIDE Cross may aid you maximize your time and finances. For a clearer image, seek advice from the desk beneath to see which move suits greatest along with your itinerary.
If you happen to’re solely planning to discover the Kansai Area, which incorporates cities like Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and extra, the JR West Kansai Space Cross is a superb choice. It is available in 1 to 4-day variations, however take into account that the utilization days should be consecutive. This move is ideal if a lot of the locations you wish to go to are close to JR stations, because it solely works on JR Traces.
Nevertheless, in case your goal locations are principally alongside non-JR strains comparable to Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, or Keihan, the Kansai Railway Cross (previously generally known as the Kansai Via Cross) is the higher selection. It covers nearly the identical areas because the JR move, however the main benefit is that you just don’t should apply it to consecutive days, making it extra versatile to your itinerary.
If you happen to’re planning a day journey or a two-day go to to Kyoto from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Cross 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 Cross is the higher choice. 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 consists of Okayama, Tottori, and even Takamatsu, you then’ll want the JR West Kansai Vast Space Cross (emphasis on WIDE), which covers a wider space.
There are many different passes obtainable, and we now have a separate article the place we talk about them in additional element. The passes are undoubtedly value it, however since every one 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 wish to go to however isn’t lined by your move, simply purchase a separate ticket. In spite of everything, you’re already in Japan, so profit from your journey and go wherever your coronary heart takes you!
4. Complicated Practice Stations
Many prepare 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 via 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 improper station, you may miss your prepare.
One other frequent mix-up occurs between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station. Regardless of their comparable 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 prepare, whereas Osaka Station doesn’t. The phrase “shin” means “new” in Japanese, and on this case, Shin-Osaka is the newer station.
You probably have a bullet prepare to catch, be sure to go to Shin-Osaka Station. And when you’re there, do not forget that the Shinkansen has its personal separate entrance, so test the indicators rigorously and enter the proper gate.
5. Sticking to Trains and Taxis
Osaka and Kyoto have in depth prepare networks, and most points of interest are simply accessible by prepare. Nevertheless, not all websites have prepare stations close by. In Kyoto particularly, among the most necessary landmarks are greatest accessed by bus slightly than by prepare.
Two UNESCO World Heritage Websites in Kyoto are removed from prepare stations. The primary is the Golden Pavilion or Kinkaku-ji Temple, which isn’t alongside any main prepare line. The easiest way 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 prepare strains is Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The closest prepare station, Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line), is a 25-minute stroll away. If you happen to’d slightly reduce that point in half, take a bus as an alternative. The closest bus cease, Gojozaka, is just a 12-minute stroll from the temple. When you nonetheless should stroll uphill, it’s a lot shorter than coming from the prepare station. Plus, the Higashiyama district alongside the way in which has numerous points of interest to get pleasure from. If you happen to’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 via 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. While you’re able to get off, exit via the entrance door, the place you’ll pay utilizing an IC card or money. Observe: If you happen to select to pay in money, be sure to have the precise quantity, as no change is given.
If the bus has just one door, all the time 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 Flawed Space
Osaka and Kyoto provide many nice districts for vacationers, and on the whole, so long as your lodging is close to a prepare station within the metropolis middle, you’ll be tremendous. The prepare system right here is in depth and dependable, making it straightforward to get round. Nevertheless, every district has its personal execs 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 think about this space the center of Osaka, particularly when it comes to transportation and procuring. If you happen to plan to go to Kyoto, Kobe, or Nara, staying in Kita Ward is right 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 usually costlier because of the prime location. Nevertheless, if you happen to discover the interior elements of the district, you may nonetheless discover some inexpensive lodging.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed here are among the top-rated properties in line with on-line consumer evaluations.
Minami Ward
One other incredible 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 prepare stations and the Osaka Metropolis Air Terminal (OCAT), the place you may catch buses to different prefectures like Tottori or Hiroshima.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed here are among the top-rated properties in line with on-line consumer evaluations.
Close to Shin-Osaka Station
If you happen to plan to take the Shinkansen or bullet prepare a number of instances and use Osaka as your base, staying close to Shin-Osaka Station is a brilliant selection. On a latest journey, we stayed at APA Lodge, simply a few blocks from Shin-Osaka Station, and had an incredible expertise. The realm is quiet, however there are many comfort shops or konbini and fast-food eating places close by, making it a sensible choice for vacationers.
In case you are planning to remain on this space, listed here are among the top-rated properties in line with on-line consumer evaluations.
Seek for extra Osaka Inns!
7. Standing on the Left on the Escalator
In Japan, there’s an unwritten rule in the case of utilizing escalators, and it differs by area. In most elements of Japan, together with Tokyo, folks stand on the left facet, leaving the suitable facet open for many who wish to stroll or overtake. Nevertheless, in Kansai Area, it’s the alternative — folks stand on the RIGHT facet, and those that wish to stroll or overtake use the left.
The origin of this regional distinction is unsure, however one idea means that it dates again to the Osaka Expo in 1970. In keeping with an article from nikkei.com, organizers adopted the worldwide commonplace of standing on the suitable for escalator etiquette, and the apply has continued in Kansai ever since. Whereas some query whether or not that is the actual purpose, what’s necessary is that in most of Kansai area, folks usually stand on the suitable 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 folks stand on the left whereas others stand on the suitable. This could be because of the giant variety of vacationers from completely different areas, resulting in combined practices.
To keep away from making errors, the most effective strategy is to watch the folks round you if you step onto an escalator. The aim of this etiquette is to maintain one facet open for many who must stroll or are in a rush. So, if everyone seems to be standing on the suitable, do the identical. In the event that they’re standing on the left, comply with go well with. This fashion, you may 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 almost all vacationers are inclined to flock to a particular spot of a website. For instance, in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, plenty 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 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 incredible place to get pleasure from some peace, however on the identical time, we are able to’t assist however suppose that many vacationers are lacking out on seeing this necessary 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 provide further cultural experiences. It’s also possible to embark on a yakatabune boat tour, which takes you on a serene trip down the Oi River. The views are breathtaking, particularly throughout autumn, when the foliage is in full show. If you happen to’re fortunate, you may even see a paddling of geese gliding throughout the water. The tour prices round JPY 4000 for 2 folks, with a further JPY 1000 per additional individual, which could really feel a bit dear, however the expertise is properly value it.
Equally, if you happen to go to Osaka Fortress, many guests solely keep outdoors to take images. Whereas that’s not essentially a mistake, getting into the fortress is extremely 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 price is JPY 600, however when you have the Osaka Superb Cross, entry is FREE.
And when you have extra time and finances, don’t restrict your self to only Osaka and Kyoto — particularly if it’s not your first time visiting. These cities are incredible, however additionally they function jump-off factors to different superb locations. Contemplate exploring Kobe, Himeji, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, and Mie. If you happen to’ve been to Osaka a number of instances, attempting out these less-visited cities provides you with a contemporary perspective on Kansai’s numerous 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 additionally 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 spite of everything, 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 difficult. Generally, all it takes is opening your Google Maps app to find a incredible native restaurant close to your lodge. This fashion, you may totally respect Japan’s wealthy meals tradition. If you happen to’ve had your fill of ramen, attempt 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.
If you happen to’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 neglect it. In truth, we make it some extent 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.
If you happen to’re visiting throughout summer season, significantly in July or August, put on mild, breathable clothes to remain comfy, particularly if you happen to plan on exploring the outside. The warmth and humidity will be intense, so dressing appropriately will aid you get pleasure from your journey with out feeling overwhelmed by the climate.
For a winter journey, correct outerwear is crucial, particularly if you happen to plan on mountain climbing or snowboarding. There are various sorts of jackets, and the most effective one is determined by your chilly tolerance and luxury degree. You probably have a excessive tolerance for the chilly, you could not want too many layers. Nevertheless, 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.
If you happen to’re exploring the town in winter, select a jacket that’s straightforward to take off, as trains and indoor institutions are well-heated. A cumbersome jacket that’s tough to take away can turn into inconvenient when continuously transferring between the chilly open air and heat indoor areas. Dressing well for the season ensures you keep comfy and profit from your Kansai journey!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, 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 surprising delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, think about PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You may GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive fee.
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