I understand all the planning involved when traveling to a new place for the first time can be stressful. Even a detailed plan may not turn out as expected upon execution; Because I went through exactly that before this trip and I'm here to help with the research.

This will be a detailed guide based on my recent experience in Osaka, I'll also include my original schedule for reference. With the introduction of each sightseeing location, I will recommend a list of activities to do in the area. And hopefully, provide you with some useful insights that I wish I'd known when I was in Osaka.

For those of you looking to visit Osaka in the near future, I hope you'll find what you're looking for here.

Day 1

3:50 pm - Arrival
5:30 pm - Checked- in at Smile Hotel Premium Osaka, Hommachi
7 pm - Dinner @ Dontonbori

Purchase Osaka Amazing Pass 2-day pass at Kansai airport KIX for 3,300 yen (Kansai Tourist Information Center at either terminal 1 or 2)

With the Osaka Amazing Pass, you'll have access to numerous tourist attractions completely free of charge. Click the link for a list of facilities that are included with the pass and take full advantage: https://www.osp.osaka-info.jp/en/facility/free

The best part about the Amazing Pass is that you may ride buses and trains within Osaka unlimitedly!

An important thing to note is that the "days" starts counting from the first use of the pass to the last train of the day. So, if you arrive in the afternoon on your first day, I'd recommend saving it to use on a full day to get the maximum value.

Note: If you plan to visit Kyoto as well, I'd recommend picking up the Keihan Railway Pass from KIX as well. (1-day pass: 800 yen / 2-day pass: 1,200 yen)

After you check-in to the hotel to drop off all your luggage, the adventure begins right away!

Dotonburi

Dotonburi is an iconic tourist attraction in Osaka. Expect huge crowds for popular restaurants and shops!

"Dontonburi is absolutely stunning at night, it'll make your first night in Osaka unforgettable."

Things to do:
1.) Take a photo in front of Glico Man
2.) Take a river cruise - There are a few different cruise operators in Dontonburi but they all provide a similar service.
3.) Try Kushikatsu - I recommend Kushikatsu Daruma.
4.) Try Osaka's signature Takoyaki
5.) Go on the Farris wheel at Don Quijote at night and enjoy the view!
6.)Take a walk down Shinsaibashi shopping arcade and take in vibrant Osaka atmosphere.
7.) Try your skill in crane games at Round One Stadium - We went to numerous game centers throughout Osaka and highly recommend Round One Stadium because we had the highest success rate there when compared with SEGA and Namco. Their staffs were the most friendly and helpful compared to all the others.

"At Kushikatsu Daruma - With an endless amount of street food to enjoy, you'll wish you had a bigger stomach in order to try it all! "

"Long line of hungry people at Kushikatsu Daruma"

"winning at Round One Stadium~!"

"The Farris wheel at Don Quijote"