2-Day Osaka, Kyoto & Minoh Highlights Tour (with Latest Shopping & Transport Tips)

📍 Osaka · 👁 1 reads · ❤️ 18 likes

I've been to Osaka so many times, and here I am again!

This shopping spree was an absolute blast – ladies, if you want to make the most of Osaka and its surroundings, just follow this guide!

No trip to Osaka is complete without visiting the bustling Umeda commercial district: get lost among the towering buildings and shopping streets, and soak up the city's pulsing energy.

If Osaka alone doesn't quench your thirst for discovery, don't forget to make use of the Hankyu 1-Day Pass to glide effortlessly between Osaka and Kyoto. The serene, emerald hills of Arashiyama in Kyoto will make you feel like you've stepped into a tranquil painting, while downtown Kyoto is steeped in historic charm. And just outside Osaka, Minoh Park is famous for its natural scenery and hiking trails – the perfect spot to unwind.

This itinerary not only dives deep into the culture and landscapes of Osaka and its neighbors, but also reveals the unique city vibes and the sheer convenience of its transport system.

Osaka / Kyoto / Minoh! A perfectly curated 2-day travel guide with ultra-detailed transport routes

From World Heritage scenery to one-stop shopping and gourmet hubs, save this now!

Oh, and remember: if you plan to shop in Japan, always carry your passport with you!

Osaka Umeda → Kyoto Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji, Bamboo Grove Path, Nonomiya Shrine, Yusai-tei, shopping street) → Kyoto Kawaramachi (Kamogawa, Hanamikoji, Yasaka Shrine) → Osaka Umeda → HEP FIVE → Hankyu Sanbangai → back to hotel

Hotel: Hankyu International Hotel

Getting around is a breeze!

About a 3-minute walk north from the Chayamachi exit of Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station.

The rooms are elegant and spacious, with top-notch service, and the views of Umeda from the high floors are simply stunning.

On the 25th floor, there’s a club lounge offering a delicious spread of food.

Plus, a casual bar – sipping a glass of wine while gazing out at the nightscape is just wonderful~

*Normally, only guests staying on the club floors (floors 33/34) can access the club lounge.

Right in the commercial district, it's super convenient for shopping, dining, and exploring the area!

Address: 19-19 Chayamachi, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station → Arashiyama Station

Use the Hankyu 1-Day Pass and take the Hankyu train.

From Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station, take a train to Katsura Station and alight.

Transfer to platform 1 and board a train bound for Arashiyama.

Look for the signage on platform 1 – you can directly take the train heading to Arashiyama.

For transport, I bought two Hankyu 1-Day Passes online in advance. They cost 1,300 yen each, and they're such a good deal – the purchase process is simple too.

The webpage is available in Chinese.

Check the pictures for the purchase steps. I’ll put the link in the comments~

Togetsukyo Bridge spans the Katsura River, separating Saga and Arashiyama.

Here, you can soak in the gentle murmur of flowing water and the vast mountain-river scenery.

Tenryu-ji is a World Heritage site in ancient Kyoto and one of the Kyoto Gozan (five great Zen temples). Many visitors come to experience its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere, including the Sogenchi Garden, Japan’s first place designated as both a Historic Site and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty.

Tenryu-ji is a temple of the Rinzai school of Zen. Here, people engage in rigorous meditation and contemplate Buddhist conundrums known as “koan,” aiming to achieve a state of “satori” where confusion dissolves and truth is grasped.

Tenryu-ji lies west of central Kyoto, and early morning is the most beautiful time to visit.

In mid-June, the hydrangeas (ajisai) are in full bloom – you can enjoy a garden full of them! Also, the lotus flowers in the Hojo Pond are at their best right now!

The 400-meter-long Bamboo Grove Path, with towering bamboo, is one of Kyoto’s most popular sights.

Sunlight filters through the treetops, so refreshing for the soul.

Nonomiya Shrine is famous for its moss-covered ground (like a carpet of moss) and Japan’s only black-wood torii gate.

The deep green forest creates an elegantly serene space.

Admission: 2,000 yen

You can pay with cash, credit card, or IC card.

Yusai-tei is the dyeing art gallery of artist Okuda Yusai.

The 150-year-old historic building originally operated as a traditional inn called “Chidori.”

It is said to be where literary giant Yasunari Kawabata wrote “The Sound of the Mountain.”

From the rooms, you can admire the seasonal natural beauty of Arashiyama.

The symmetrical scenery reflected on the desk and water surface (like a water mirror) is a stunning photo spot!

The shopping street on the way to the station is full of snack shops and souvenir stores, with a lively, local vibe.

Transport tips:

Use the Hankyu 1-Day Pass, take the Hankyu train

Arashiyama Station → Kyoto Kawaramachi Station

From Arashiyama Station, first go to Katsura Station, then transfer directly to Kyoto Kawaramachi Station!

Kamogawa is a river that flows 27 km through Kyoto from north to south, nurturing the city’s culture.

Even in the modern city, Kamogawa remains clear, making it a lovely spot for relaxation.

Locals love to come here to cool off and chat at sunset – it’s a quintessential Kyoto scene.

As the main north-south street running through the heart of Gion, Hanamikoji is also a filming location.

Lined with tea houses on both sides, their red lattices and dogtooth fences exude a Gion atmosphere, giving visitors a nostalgic, soothing feel. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a maiko or geiko heading to an engagement.

Yasaka Shrine is the head shrine of approximately 2,300 Yasaka or Susanoo shrines across Japan.

Long revered by Kyotoites, it houses nearly 20 auxiliary shrines offering blessings for warding off evil, matchmaking, and more.

Use the Hankyu 1-Day Pass, take the Hankyu train

Kyoto Kawaramachi Station → Osaka Umeda Station

When in Umeda, how can you miss HEP FIVE with its iconic red Ferris wheel?

About a 3-minute walk from Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station.

HEP FIVE focuses on trendy youth brands – fashion, food, entertainment, all in one place.

Once inside, be sure – really sure – to pick up a coupon at the information counter on the 1st floor:

A 500-yen discount voucher for purchases of 3,000 yen (tax included) or more!

*You’ll need to show your passport to get it.

First, head up to TAMLO, the gourmet floor on the 7th floor, to feed those rumbling tummies!

With 14 popular restaurants, from diverse cuisines to cafes, it’s got everything! They’ve also thoughtfully set up many public rest areas for a break.

The 7th floor is also the ticket counter and boarding point for the Ferris wheel~

Enjoy a 360° view of Osaka’s beauty!

It’s atmospheric both day and night!

One ride lasts about 15 minutes.

[HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel]

Fare: 600 yen (free for children under 5) *Information as of July 2024. Fares are subject to change.

Operating hours: 11:00 – 23:00; last boarding at 22:45

Now, let’s switch to shopping mode!

PLAZA: HEP FIVE 4th floor (hours: 11:00 – 21:00)

At PLAZA, you can find beauty-enhancing cosmetics and delightful lifestyle knick-knacks. From the latest makeup and trendy accessories to cute snacks and colorful character goods, the selection is rich. It's filled with lovely items that add a little sparkle to each day. New products and limited editions appear every season, so you’ll find fresh surprises each visit.

BEAMS STREET UMEDA: HEP FIVE 1st floor (hours: 11:00 – 21:00)

A unisex fashion brand offering a wide range of casual wear, from basics to street style. The store also has a great selection of miscellaneous goods and accessories, perfect for picking out gifts.

[HEP FIVE]

Address: 5-15 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

After crossing the pedestrian crossing in front of HEP FIVE, you can take a photo at the plaza with the HEP FIVE Ferris wheel as the backdrop, right in front of the ‘UMEDA’ sculpture!

Snap a pic to remember your visit to Umeda!

[Hankyu San Plaza]

1F Hankyu GRAND BUILDING, 8-47 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

Hungry from shopping? Have dinner at Hankyu Sanbangai!

Hankyu Sanbangai is directly connected to Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station, housing about 250 shops with everything from fashion to gourmet food – a must-visit for shopaholics!

Again, don’t forget: go to the service counter at B1F of the South Building to get a 500-yen discount voucher for purchases of 3,000 yen (tax included) or more!

*Show your passport to claim it.

Meat Rice Bowl Specialty Shop – NIKUJU ROMANTEI:

Hankyu Sanbangai, South Building B2F (hours: 11:00 – 22:00, last order 21:30)

I ordered the “Kuroge Wagyu Sukiyaki-ju” (1,780 yen + seasonal set 400 yen).

Lightly grilled thinly sliced black-haired wagyu beef belly pairs with a rich, sweet soy sauce aroma, along with white leeks and Satsuma red eggs – each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

I also tried the “Nikura-ju” (2,580 yen).

It combines tender lean steak and rich ribeye, topped with large grains of salmon roe from Hokkaido – the mingling of meat and fish roe in your mouth is rich and delightful.

Also, I recommend the seasonal set, which for just an extra 400 yen includes an appetizer, a chicken meatball soup made with chicken from their own farm, and matcha dessert after the meal.

Stuffed and content, time for more shopping!

maRe maRe PUMPSHOP JAPAN CRAFT: Hankyu Sanbangai, South Building 1F (hours: 10:00 – 21:00)

All shoes are original designs with excellent cushioning, so they’re comfortable to wear and your feet won’t ache.

I personally tested them: walking tens of thousands of steps a day is no problem!

Cute and versatile shoes, summer sandals –

lots of styles and colors to choose from!

Get a pair for yourself and your mom!

Rilakkuma Store: Hankyu Sanbangai, North Building 1F (hours: 10:00 – 21:00)

Rilakkuma fans absolutely cannot miss this shop!!

Plushies, stationery, clothes… everywhere you look is filled with adorable elements.

Rilakkuma’s irresistible charm – you won’t want to put anything down!

[Hankyu Sanbangai]

Address: 1-1-3 Shibata, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

After the shopping spree, it’s back to the hotel for a rest! Looking forward to day two~

Osaka Umeda → Hankyu Minoh Station → Katsuo-ji Temple → Minoh Waterfall → Yamamoto Coffee House → Ryuan-ji → Osaka Umeda → GRAND FRONT OSAKA

Wake up refreshed and enjoy breakfast at Hankyu International Hotel.

My friend’s Western meal and my Japanese-style meal were both delicious – I was genuinely stunned by the beautiful presentation of the washoku!

Leave the luggage at the hotel and head out!

Be sure to mark the Hankyu Tourist Center at the station.

Here you can not only ask about transport and tickets but also get sightseeing info and recommended attractions.

They also offer luggage storage, so you can explore completely unburdened~

Do drop by for advice~

Address: 1F Hankyu Umeda Station, 1-1-2 Shibata, Kita-ku, Osaka City

Transport tips

Keep using the Hankyu 1-Day Pass, take the Hankyu train

Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station → Minoh Station

From Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station, take a train to Ishibashi Handai-mae Station, then transfer at platform 5 to reach Minoh Station.

From Hankyu Minoh Station, you can start sightseeing. Besides walking, you can use a taxi or bus.

I recommend buying the Minoh Sightseeing 1-Day Bus Pass. You’ll see the bus stop right outside the station – super convenient.

Adults: 2,000 yen. Children: 1,000 yen.

The Minoh Waterfall Trail One-Way Sightseeing Bus operates on weekends, holidays, and during summer vacation.

*Summer vacation period: July 16 to August 23, 2024

Hidden perks: ① A ride ticket is provided at the entrance of Katsuo-ji, giving you a 100 yen discount on admission.

② The adult 1-Day Bus Pass includes a 400-yen coupon usable at shops along the waterfall trail, around Minoh Station, and at Katsuo-ji.

Admission: 500 yen

We took a taxi from the station this time, about a 20-minute ride to the site.

Taxi fare approx. 3,000 yen.

Katsuo-ji, also known as the “temple of victorious luck,” is one of the oldest temples in the Kansai region, and many locals come here to pray.

It’s also famous for its seasonal flowers; lately, hydrangeas are blooming all over the temple – just gorgeous.

BTW, the daruma dolls you see everywhere are absolutely adorable!

A 10-minute taxi ride, arriving with ease. Taxi fare about 1,500 yen.

This scenic quasi-national park is a must-visit for the magnificent Minoh Waterfall.

Wander along the green mountain paths and soak up nature’s gifts!

Starting from the spectacular Minoh Waterfall – 5 meters wide with a 33-meter drop – the valley winds through the forest, home to 980 plant species and over 3,000 insect species. It’s a precious natural forest in Osaka Prefecture and the western starting point of the Tokai Nature Trail. The scenery is stunning in every season: cherry blossoms in spring, ice flowers and icicles in winter, and fiery foliage in late autumn.

I absolutely love this café nestled in the woods.

With 80 indoor seats and 30 terrace seats, the gentle babble of the stream fills the air with a natural ambience.

Inside, there’s a quirky collection of coffee cups and coffee-making equipment on display.

We ordered coffee and sandwiches – delicious!

Address: 2-28 Minoh Park, Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture

Ryuan-ji is the oldest Benzaiten temple in Japan.

In the year 658, the ascetic En no Gyōja engaged in rigorous practice at Minoh Waterfall. Under the guidance of Benzaiten, he attained enlightenment and became a practitioner. To repay the deity, he personally carved a statue of Benzaiten, enshrined it near the waterfall, and named the place Minoh-ji (later renamed Ryuan-ji). Since then, many ascetics have entered the mountains, and the temple developed into a mountain training center, with more than 80 halls at its peak.

However, after the Meiji period, due to social upheaval, only this area remains. Under Osaka Prefecture’s forest park plan, souvenir shops and restaurants now stand on the former temple grounds.

Transport tips

Use the Hankyu 1-Day Pass, take the Hankyu train

Minoh Station → Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station

Back in Umeda, it’s time to refuel with some delicious food!

We headed to GRAND FRONT OSAKA, about a 5-minute walk from Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station.

GRAND FRONT OSAKA SHOPS & RESTAURANTS, connected to JR Osaka Station, offers a huge shopping space where you can enjoy fashion and gourmet delights in a lush, green environment.

The complex consists of the South Building, North Building, and Umekita Plaza.

As always: first, stop by the information counter on the 1st floor of the North Building to get a 500-yen discount voucher for purchases of 3,000 yen (tax included) or more!

*Show your passport to get it.

Coupon in hand, head straight to UMEKITA FLOOR, the gourmet level on the 6th floor of the North Building.

This is a modern, serene dining area

with multiple eateries where you can enjoy meticulously prepared dishes and drinks.

In the communal seating area in front of each shop, you can order from any shop and sit down together to dine.

The fact that they’ll bring your food to your seat is very appealing~

BAK: GRAND FRONT OSAKA SHOPS & RESTAURANTS North Building 6F (hours: 11:00 – 23:00)

After two days of “special forces” style travel, we wanted to unwind with a drink~.

A direct-run shop from Osaka-born craft beer brewery BAK,

which brews a lineup of unique beers with its own creative brewing style!

Unbound by tradition or mainstream, they use ingredients like strawberry, banana, sansho pepper, ginger, and jasmine

in pursuit of distinctive flavors and aromas, while deeply exploring solid bitterness. The result: distinctively tasty beers!

I ordered a “Bitter & Astringent,” a popular one, with fresh citrus notes and the bitterness characteristic of an IPA.

Also, a “Banyan Tree” that suits female palates – more refreshing. A saison-style beer with a unique aroma from various herbs and spices.

Paired with the signature fish and chips, we enjoyed a lovely evening~.

After a little break, let the shopping fun continue!

ESTNATION: GRAND FRONT OSAKA SHOPS & RESTAURANTS South Building 1F (hours: 11:00 – 21:00)

ESTNATION from Japan offers men’s and women’s apparel, fashion accessories, and beauty & skincare – pretty much everything.

It’s a boutique brand that exudes high class and quality.

Whether you lean toward elegant, mature styles or statement pieces with strong design, you’ll find it here!

Refined designs suit all ages.

The store displays are tasteful, also great for photo ops!

OVERRIDE: GRAND FRONT OSAKA SHOPS & RESTAURANTS South Building 3F (hours: 11:00 – 21:00)

A specialty hat boutique.

Inside, you’ll find not only their original brand but also a great selection of brands from Japan and abroad, as well as collaborative hats with trendy sports brands.

Stylish and streamlined designs with a strong sense of fashion,

no matter your gender or age, you’ll find a hat that suits you!

Hat lovers must check this out!

[GRAND FRONT OSAKA]

Umekita Plaza: 4-1 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

South Building: 4-20 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

North Building: 3-1 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

This Kansai “special forces” trip let me experience the diversity and richness of Japanese culture. From ancient shrines to modern city architecture, every spot showcased Japan’s unique allure.

For shopping, I strongly recommend the Umeda area in Osaka – niche brands and international big names are all here, so you can shop to your heart’s content! Lots of great food too, a true one-stop destination!

If you’re planning to explore around Osaka, I highly recommend buying the Hankyu 1-Day Pass – it’s really worth it!

Finally, I hope this guide helps with your Kansai adventure~

*All fares are for reference only, based on information as of July 2024. Fares may be adjusted later.

Itinerary Contents

1. DAY 1

2. Osaka to Kyoto transport

3. Togetsukyo Bridge

4. Tenryu-ji

5. Bamboo Grove Path

6. Nonomiya Shrine

7. Yusai-tei

8. Kamogawa