If you read my recent Tokyo travel post, you know my partner and I followed Japan’s famous Golden Route. After a few days in Tokyo, we hopped on the iconic Shinkansen and made our way to Osaka, our home base for the next leg of our adventure.
Why take the Shinkansen?
The Shinkansen is Japan’s bullet train, which can reach speeds of up to 177 mph or 285 km/h, and yet it was the smoothest and safest train ride I’ve ever been on. Armed with a speedometer app, we were amazed that we were actually experiencing such speed passing through Yokohama.
Even more impressive: according to their website, there have been zero fatal accidents in over 60 years of operation. Safety, efficiency, and speed? Check, check, and check.
A little over two hours later, we arrived in Osaka—ready for food, temples, and day trips galore.
Hey there! Just a heads up – this post includes some affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products I actually use and love! Thanks for supporting this blog. Full disclosure here.
Why Osaka Makes the Best Home Base
Because we planned to visit Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Nara, friends and family insisted Osaka was the most convenient place to stay—and they were right. Osaka sits between all three destinations, making it incredibly easy to hop on local trains or the Shinkansen for quick, smooth day trips.
And let’s be honest… more Shinkansen rides? Yes, please.
Osaka Faves
KUROMON MARKET – It was raining on our first day in Osaka, but we wanted to try local foods for lunch without getting drenched. Since it’s a market, everything was made fresh and affordable.
DOTONBORI – Yes, more food options, and there’s nothing wrong with that. From a Michelin Guide takoyaki to Ichiran Ramen, you can’t go wrong with any spot that you choose. After stuffing yourself with some good eats, you can stroll down the riverwalk or burn some calories while shopping. Speaking of shopping…
HOZENJI YOKOCHO – If you’re not feeling the crowd at Dontonburi, Hozenji Yokocho is a bit more laid-back to shop, eat, and even visit a shrine. It’s impressive how this landmark survived two fires.
HOZENJI TEMPLE – Speaking of laid-back areas of Dontonburi, Hozenji Temple is the perfect spot to escape the crowds. This temple houses the statue of Fudo Myoo that’s covered with moss because visitors pour water over it for good luck.
Kyoto Faves
FUSHIMI INARI – Where else can you explore shrine buildings on mountain trails and be surrounded by Senbon Torii (“thousands of torii gates)? We reached the sixth rest stop before turning back—an achievement especially because we were traveling with my 85+ year-old mom! Truly a memorable moment. Aside from the thousands of steps exploring Kyoto, we got a mini-sesh by doing this mini-hike!
KIYOMIZUDERA TEMPLE – Known for its wooden stage that goes out of its main hall, you’ll be greeted with the view overlooking the hillside of Kyoto. At the bottom of the main hall is the Otowa Waterfall, which is divided into three different streams representing three different blessings.
GOLDEN PAVILION – Kinkakuji is a temple completely covered in shimmering gold leaf situated overlooking a pond. Apparently, it has been burned down multiple times, and the current structure was built in 1955.
BAMBOO FOREST AT ARASHIYAMA – This location is perfect for someone who’s looking for a leisurely walk, and a possible ASMR experience when the wind blows. You’ll hear the bamboo trees swaying back and forth.
Nara Faves
OMIZUTORI – We were fortunate enough to witness the final night of this ritual at Nigatsudo Hall, a smaller temple in Todaiji. The purification ritual, which has been held for over 1,250 years, is held in March for 14 days. Buddhist monks carry flaming torches onto the balcony and the burning embers to descend onto onlookers for blessings and purification.
NARA PARK – This has got to be one of the most Instagrammable locations in Nara—and for good reason. Being surrounded by wild, roaming, but respectful herd of deer that all bow to get some crackers from visitors. It’s a must-activity if you’re in the area. Pro tips: Buy the official deer crackers sold in the park. When you’re out of crackers, show your empty hands so they don’t keep nudging you—these deer are smart.
Why You Should Visit Hiroshima
Hiroshima’s history is tragic, painful, and complex, but it’s also one of the most meaningful places in Japan. The city honors its past with dignity while actively promoting global peace.
ATOMIC BOMB DOME – Once the Industrial Promotional Hall, this skeletal structure is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a reminder of the devastation of nuclear warfare.
THE FLAME OF PEACE – The flame has been burning since August 1, 1964, and will only be extinguished until “the day when all nuclear weapons have disappeared from the earth.”
HIROSHIMA PEACE MEMORIAL MUSEUM – Prepare for an emotional experience. I shed a handful of tears seeing the harrowing images, artifacts, and reading personal stories of the victims of the A-bomb as I walked through the museum. It showed why Hiroshima was chosen, the impact of the nuclear bomb, the aftermath, and its campaign for peace.
Tips & Takaways
- Use Osaka as your home base if you’re planning day trips to Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima—it saves time and offers the best transportation options.
- Buy a JR Pass (if available) to make Shinkansen travel easier and more cost-effective.
- Start Kyoto early, especially at Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama, to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Carry cash, especially in markets and smaller temples where cards aren’t always accepted.
- In Nara, only feed deer the official crackers—and show your empty hands when you run out.
- Prepare emotionally for Hiroshima, as the Peace Memorial Museum can be heavy but deeply important.
- Check weather forecasts—many outdoor locations, like Nara Park and the Bamboo Forest, are better enjoyed in good weather.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk more than you expect across temples, markets, and long pathways. If you need suggestions, head over to the S&W shop.
- And if you’re not into planning your trip, explore options from Klook and Get Your Guide to book your excursions without the hassle. [Side note: I booked our Mt. Fuji day trip through Klook, and it was a breeze.]
Osaka is the ideal base for exploring some of Japan’s most iconic destinations. With easy access to Kyoto’s temples, Nara’s deer-filled parks, and Hiroshima’s deeply moving peace memorials, this vibrant city offers the perfect balance of convenience, culture, and cuisine. From bullet train adventures to historic landmarks and unforgettable rituals, this Golden Route itinerary showcases the best of Japan in one trip.
Keep wandering, friends!
Hey there! Just a heads up – this post includes some affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products I actually use and love! Thanks for supporting this blog. Full disclosure here.