Day 1: Christmas Arrival in Osaka
Upon arrived at the Kansai Airport, we took JR Haruka Kansai Airport Express (booked via klook) to reach Shinjuku Station.
Useful link:
Ticket for Kansai Airport Express: here
Osaka train map link: here
Accommodation: The Singulari Hotel & Skyspa at Universal Studios Japan
Check-in was at 3:00 PM, so we left our bags and grabbed a meal at a nearby eatery.
After our meal we went back to the hotel to check in. The room was clean and spacious. I highly recommend this place to anyone visiting USJ.
We rest a little and and dove into the heart of Osaka: Dotonbori. The iconic canal, neon signs, and bustling food stalls were a feast for the senses.
We slurped down takoyaki and I got scammed by my sis and made to pay a high price for the kobe beef!
Can you find us? Haha!
Later, we explored Don Don Donki, grabbing quirky snacks and souvenirs. We spent too much there! Haha!
Day 2: Universal Studios Japan
We were up bright and early for a full day at Universal Studios Japan (8:00 AM–9:00 PM). The park was a thrill from start to finish. The holiday decorations added extra sparkle, making it a perfect Christmas week treat.
Sometimes some money you just can't save when you go oversea. Haha!
Raise and shine! Time to head to another location
Day 3: Osaka to Tokyo & Ameyoko
We checked out of The Singulari by 11:00 AM and caught the 11:30 AM Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Tokyo, arriving at 1:57 PM. The bullet train was a bucket-list experience—smooth, fast, and with epic Mount Fuji views.
After settling into Sunny Heights 201 (check-in at 4:00 PM), we headed to Ameyoko Shopping Street near Ueno Station. This lively market was a treasure trove of street food, clothes, and trinkets.
Day 4: Shibuya Vibes
Shibuya was calling! We started at Shibuya Station, snapping pics at the famous Scramble Crossing. Then, we wandered to Loft, a multi-story haven of quirky stationery, gadgets, and home goods. I couldn’t resist grabbing a few cute Totoro-themed items. The energy of Shibuya—bright lights, trendy shops, and bustling crowds—was infectious.
Day 5: Akihabara’s Electric Town
Akihabara was a paradise for our inner nerds. We explored endless stores packed with anime figures, retro video games, and electronics. Lunch was at a maid café—yes, it’s as quirky as it sounds! The colorful streets and otaku culture made this day a blast.
Day 6: Comiket and Odaiba
We dove into the chaos of Comiket, Japan’s massive comic market. The energy was electric, with cosplayers and artists everywhere. Later, we headed to Odaiba, strolling through Symbol Promenade Park and visiting DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. The life-sized Gundam statue was jaw-dropping, and we grabbed ramen at the food court while soaking in the bay views.
Day 7: New Year’s Eve at Joypolis
We rang in New Year’s Eve at Odaiba’s Joypolis, an indoor amusement park with thrilling VR rides and arcade games. The festive vibe was perfect for celebrating, and we counted down to midnight with a view of Tokyo’s skyline. It was a night to remember!
Day 8: New Year’s Day Fun
We kicked off 2025 with a visit to Seibuen Amusement Park (ticket link), enjoying classic rides and a festive atmosphere. Later, we explored AquaPark Shinagawa, where the aquarium’s dazzling jelly aquatic displays left us in awe. It was a relaxing way to start the year.
Day 9: Farewell, Japan
Our adventure ended with a 10:00 AM checkout from Sunny Heights 201. We headed to Kansai Airport, hearts full and bags stuffed with souvenirs. Our 4:50 PM flight back to Singapore marked the end of an epic trip. Japan, you were unforgettable—sayonara until next time!
Final Thought: From Osaka’s foodie heaven to Tokyo’s vibrant streets, this trip was a whirlwind of joy, culture, and memories!
This Japan holiday was a dream come true, blending theme park thrills, cultural gems, and urban adventures. If you’re planning a trip, Osaka and Tokyo are must-visits—just bring comfy shoes and an empty stomach!
