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Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Osaka |
For tourists who are pressed for time in Japan, I usually recommend the Kyoto-Nara-Osaka tour.
For me, these three places capture what Japan is. Kyoto was the old capital with lovely temples and shrines. Osaka is one big modern city with skyscrapers and colorful shopping districts. These two places are in perfect contrast of the old and new, the ancient and the modern. As for Nara, it's between those two places so might as well see the deer there.
Here's a possible weekend tour of Kyoto-Nara-Osaka. I've used this a few times and recommended it too to friends who visited. They were generally happy with what they saw. However, let me clarify first what kind of traveller I am.
I travel on a budget so I usually go to places with free entrances.
I seldom take roads less travelled. I like sticking to popular spots.
I love history and historical places but I'm not so much into temples and castles in Japan. They look the same to me.
I'm not adventurous with food. When travelling, I eat because I need to.
Perhaps, my travelling style wouldn't impress the travel guide websites. My style is simple and basic. I'm a common tourist who likes to take selfies in touristy places. Then, I'd like to post these pictures on social media because I want people to know I've been to beautiful places. And I also think the places are worth sharing.
Anyway, here's a budget-friendly 2-day trip to Kyoto-Nara-Osaka.
Note: If your place is nearer Osaka than Kyoto, you can just switch the Day 1 and Day 2 itinerary.
Recommended Transportation: Trains