Under $100: Osaka, Japan

Visiting Osaka without breaking the bank is a rough proposition with the exorbitant entrance fees and pricey public transportation. However, if you’re careful and a little choosey on which sights you want to see, you can spend a day here for less than $100.

For starters, you’ll probably need a light breakfast in the morning and the easiest way to save money is to hit up a street vendor. A bowl of soup or a light ramen treat will only run a few dollars and you’ll want to save the bigger bucks for lunch and dinner.

Osaka Castle © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime

Rent yourself a bike for less than $10 at the nearest vendor and head to the Osaka Castle to start exploring. Entrance to the castle is 600 yen, roughly $5, or you can choose to walk the grounds and explore the gardens, which are beautiful. We recommend heading inside for a nice taste of Japanese culture and Osaka history.

Afterward, make your way to the Umeda Sky Building, which houses a floating garden observatory and stunning panoramic views of all of Osaka. Admission is 800 yen, or $7.

Umeda Sky Building © Cowardlion | Dreamstime

Head to the beloved Kuma Kafe for Western food with a Japanese twist. It’s popular, affordable and the nacho pizza is absolutely delicious. You’ll drop around $10 to $15.

Once you’re stuffed, you’ll want to walk it off with a tour of Shitennoji Temple, the oldest temple in Japan. It was built back in 593 and houses a five-story pagoda, turtle sanctuary and a perfectly manicured Japanese garden with streams and waterfalls. Entrance is only 300 yen, so just less than $3.

Kobo-Daishi Statues at Shitennoji Temple © Cowardlion | Dreamstime

In the evening, you’ll want to catch a glimpse of the famed nightlife Osaka is known for, so head to downtown Minami district for all the bright lights and delicious smells. The hosts will try to drag you inside each restaurant and store you pass so keep your guard up.

Finally, for dinner try out Mizuno. It’s easily the best place in the city to try out okonomiyaki, or Japanese pancakes. It won’t break the bank, but expect to shell out close to $20 per person for dinner.