This Sentosa island itinerary shows you why this charming island resort deserves more than just a day trip from Singapore!
Sentosa Island is a popular holiday destination in Singapore. This beautiful island is home to beautiful sandy beaches, exciting events, theme parks, lush rainforests, adventure activities, and more. There are numerous things to do on Sentosa Island to keep you busy. It has everything you could be looking for! Visitors easily spend a whole day or a few days when exploring the island.
The best part? Sentosa Island is well-conned to the city by road, cable car, monorail, and a pedestrian boardwalk. So it’s easy to add it to your Singapore itinerary. It is also possible to visit Sentosa island by day trip from Singapore. But no matter how long you decide to spend on Sentosa, it promises to be an experience you’ll never forget.
In this Sentosa travel guide blog, we’ve listed some of the best things to do on the island to help you plan your Sentosa island itinerary.
There are multiple ways to get to Sentosa Island from Singapore. The island is connected to mainland Singapore by road, monorail, cable car, and pedestrian bridge.
How To Get To Sentosa Island from Singapore:
Vehicles: The quickest way to get there is via taxi or rideshare app Grab. This is noted the vehicles are charged a fee to enter Sentosa unless visiting a resort, theme park, or attraction.
MRT: The most popular way is taking the MRT to the HarbourFront Station, and then transferring to Sentosa Express monorail through VivoCity Mall.
Cable Car: The most exciting way to reach Sentosa island using cable car. It provides a great view of the island along the journey. The cable car departs from Faber Peak, with a stop at Harbourfront Tower II on the way to the island. You can also take the MRT to Harbourfront, then use the cable car station in Harbourfront Tower II. Get the Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass here.
Once you arrived in Sentosa, traveling within the island is also simple. Plus, transport on Sentosa Island is free. You can get around around the island with a free shuttle service.
Sentosa Island Travel Tips: When you leave Sentosa, the Sentosa Express is free! Just hop on the monorail from any station (Resorts World, Imbiah, or Beach Station) on Sentosa Island and ride the monorail back to VivoCity for free.
Where To Stay in Sentosa Island
One of the highlights of visiting Sentosa Island is to experience a world-class hotel. The island lives up to its reputation with resort-style hotels. So it is best to plan on a staycation or short trip to Sentosa Island for a relaxing gateway. Plus, staying on Sentosa Island is also more convenient so that you can access attractions when wandering around.
Here are a few recommendations on where to stay in Sentosa Island:
Luxury: W Singapore – Sentosa Cove is an excellent resort-style hotel in a less crowded part of Sentosa. The property is elegant and beautiful. Rooms feature either partial or full views of the pool or ocean, with select rooms offering a balcony.
High-Range: Village Hotel Sentosa is a fantastic family-friendly option, this hotel delivers a unique offering on the island with brand-new amenities and activities. The rooms are comfy and super clean.
Our Sentosa Island itinerary is mainly for sightseeing and relaxing. So we didn’t plan many activities during our trip. But to make your sightseeing Sentosa itinerary more efficient, you should try working your way in a north-to-south or south-to-north direction to save on traveling time.
Things To do in Sentosa Island itinerary:
Exploring the beaches (Siloso Beach, Palawa Beach, Tanjong Beach)
Try the Fun-filled Adventure Activities (We recommend Skyline Luge)
Visit S.E.A. Aquarium
Universal Studios Singapore
Fort Siloso
This Sentosa Island travel blog is only a guide and feel free to deviate from the itinerary planning.
Exploring the Beaches
Sentosa Island has three beautiful beaches along its southern shoreline on Sentosa Island. All the beaches are spotlessly clean and great for sunbathing, relaxing, and swimming. It is best to come early or late evening as the weather is so hot in Singapore.
Beaches in Sentosa Island:
Siloso Beach (west side): One of the best beaches with great views on Sentosa island. It tends to be busier with plenty of beach sports activities.
Palawan Beach (middle) is more popular with families with young children. The beach is beautiful and scenic. You can walk across the rope bridge to reach the southernmost point of Asia.
Tanjong Beach (east side) is more remote with a romantic, quieter vibe.
We strolled around Palawan beach when getting around Sentosa island. The beach is easily one of the most beautiful places on the island. The beach is well-kept and clean, perfect for a stroll even at night. We dipped our feet in the water, and enjoy the view.
Getting to Sentosa’s beach is easy. Firstly, take the Sentosa Express to Beach Station, then take the Sentosa Beach shuttle to any one of these. Besides, it is also possible to walk between all three of them.
Try the Fun-filled Adventure Activity
Sentosa Island itinerary – Skyline Luge
Sentosa is a fun-filling destination with a wide variety of attractions. There are also a few adventures for you to try on when visiting the island, such as iFLY Singapore, Skyline Luge, Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure, and Skypark Sentosa by AJ Hackett. You can pick and choose which activities you want to do on your Sentosa Island itinerary.
We suggest that you try at least one!
Among them, we highly recommended the Skyline Luge. It is one of the best adventures that is perfect for all ages of riders, family, and friends. A must-do for Sentosa Island itinerary.
The Skyline Luge offers a fun ride down a safe, moderate-speed track that snakes down toward the beaches. The course is split into four tracks, each offering a different level of speed and excitement. A unique kind of thrill!
S.E.A. Aquarium
Officially the world’s largest aquarium, S.E.A. Aquarium features unique marine habitats, and thousands of marine life and underwater animals. This is also the best chance to meet some sharks, dolphins, jellyfish, and colorful fishes, up-close! One of the best activities for the Sentosa Island itinerary.
The aquarium is divided into 10 different zones, letting you observe marine animals from a variety of areas of the world’s oceans. Highlights of the S.E.A. Aquarium include the gigantic Open Ocean habitat, which offers an amazing view of marine life in a completely open habitat. It is a thrill to take a stroll through it and Shark Sea Habitat flying above your head.
Plus, each section with well-display information is very informative. All this makes the entire experience not just visually pleasing but educational as well.
A visit to S.E.A Aquarium is a wonderful Waterworld experience for both adults and children alike. Please allocate about 2 to 3 hours for the visit. Definitely worth a visit.
Sentosa Island travel Guide Tips: It is great to know that an S.E.A Aquarium ticket is cheaper if bought in advance online, rather than through the ticketing machines outside. Purchase it earlier from Klook to get the discounted rate!
Universal Studios Singapore
Open since 2010, Universal Studios Singapore (USS) is a modern theme park that must-visit on your Sentosa Island itinerary. It is an awesome experience for all ages!
The theme park features many fun rides and shows inspired by blockbuster movies and tv series. Don’t miss exhilarating rides like Jurassic Park, Battlestar Galactica, Transformers, Revenge of the Mummy, and many more.
There is also a great selection of live and 3D shows such as Shrek 4-D, Puss in Boots, and Sesame Street. We also loved the live shows and performances.
A trip to USS is a great way to spend the day on Sentosa Island to experience all the fun rides and performances. It will keep you entertained for an entire day!
A 1-day pass to Universal Studios Singapore typically costs SGD 70 for adults and SGD 58 for kids. You can buy tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook online to beat the queues. You can sometimes get a discount if you purchase advanced tickets through Klook.
Also, be prepared to spend your time on the line for those rides. If you want a fast lane, you should try their VIP or Express ticket. This gives you access to each of the rides once via the Express Pass queue so that you won’t spend most of the time on the line.
Fort Siloso
Located at the edge of Sentosa Island, Fort Siloso is a restored gun battery that was designed to serve as part of the defense from an invasion by sea. The guns were turned inland as part of the defense against the Japanese position.
Today, Fort Siloso turn into an interesting military museum with exhibits and historical information from WWII. It is well preserved with interpretative displays. There are gun placements, bunkers, and numerous chambers detailing aspects of Singapore during the war. Take your time and learn about the WWII history of Singapore.
Fort Siloso is entrance free and visitors are welcome to wander around the fort. Worth a visit on your Sentosa itinerary.
Getting there: Fort Siloso could be reach from Siloso Beach on foot.
Overall: A Visit To Sentosa
All in all, we hope that this Sentosa itinerary will help you plan an amazing trip to this beautiful island in Singapore. The island is not just the beach but also a great destination for anyone who has a bit more time and needs a break from all the cultural attractions in Singapore. It is one of the top places to visit in Singapore and highly recommended. A fun-filled trip especially for family travelers with kids.
Thanks for reading my Sentosa Island itinerary post. Enjoy your trip to Sentosa!
Are you planning on going to Singapore? Check out our Singapore travel stories on what to see and do in this fantastic and vibrant city!
If you’re planning a trip to Gardens by the Bay, then this Gardens by the Bay travel guide blog will tell you all you need to know to plan your trip with suggested places to include on your itinerary.
Located in the heart of the city, Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s famous landmarks and well-known attractions. It is a sanctuary for nature lovers, as well as a feat of engineering. A visit to Singapore is incomplete without visiting this city’s most iconic attraction.
Gardens by the Bay has a diverse range of botanical gardens, giant indoor waterfalls, and different wildlife. There are many sights to see and exhibitions to explore. To fully appreciate this amazing place, it’s recommended to plan your Gardens by the Bay itinerary to explore the area. We’ve compiled lots of advice and information in this guide to the Garden by the Bay.
This detailed Gardens by the Bay Travel blog will share some of the useful travel information and tips, with a suggested itinerary so you can make the most of your time at the Gardens by the Bay.
Opened in 2012, Gardens by the Bay is located on reclaimed land behind Marina Bay Sands Hotel. The nature park spans 101 hectares in the Central Region of Singapore. It is also part of the city’s plans to transform itself from a Garden City to a City in a Garden.
Garden by the Bay consists of three waterfront gardens: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. Most visitors will stay in Bay South Garden and this area is also where the Supertrees, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest located.
Gardens by the Bay Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00 to next day of 2:00 Official Website: https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/
How To Buy the Gardens by the Bay Ticket
The entrance ticket to the Garden by the bay is free but there are five attractions in the gardens that require an admission fee. The Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Observatory, OCBC Skywalk, and Floral Fantasy are the popular attractions and those are also the paid attraction with admission fees. Each ticket can be purchased near the entrance and some can even be purchased online. We will share each attraction in more detail at the below travel guide.
Garden by the Bay is extremely popular among travelers and even locals. We strongly recommend buying the tickets before visiting. Klook offers E-ticket to Gardens by the Bay. Various packages with add-on options are available. Choose the one that suits your travel plan. It is easy to redeem and hassle-free.
To get to Gardens by the Bay, the easiest and cheapest way is by taking Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT). Two MRT stations serve Gardens by the Bay: Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16) and Gardens by the Bay MRT Station (TE22).
If you are arriving at Bayfront MRT Station, take Exit B which is near the Bayfront Plaza. Next, walk across the Dragonfly Bridge and towards the Gardens by the Bay. Alternatively, you can take a Shuttle Service that runs from Bayfront Plaza to the Flower Dome. The Shuttle Service fee is $3 for one 2-way ride per person.
If you are arriving at Gardens by the Bay MRT Station, take Exit 1. Following the navigation, we will pass by the Satay by the Bay before you arrive at the main Gardens by the Bay drop-off point. From there, you can head up to the domes.
Another option is the handy Grab. There are a few drop-off points when you type Gardens by the Bay on Grab, but the main one is the main entrance by the Supertrees in the Golden Garden.
What To do for Garden by the Bay itinerary
There are many things to do when visiting Gardens by the Bays. We will share the must-see attractions and also what to do for a one-day Garden by the Bay itinerary.
Things to do for 1-day Garden by the Bay itinerary:
Flower Dome
Cloud Forest
Floral Fantasy
Supertree Grove
Supertree Observatory
OCBC Skywalk
Gardens by the Bay Light Show
and more gardens and parks.
Pro Tips: Get your ticket before the visit to save the queuing time – Klook offers E-ticket to redeem at the entrance.
Flower Dome
Flower Dome is the world’s largest glass greenhouse. It is an air-conditioned Mediterranean space that contains plants, flowers, and trees from all over the world. Flower Dome is kept at a temperature of 23 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Travelers can learn about various ecosystems, from baobab trees (aka Bottle Tree) to Mediterranean gardens in the nine themed areas. In the center of the dome, there is an area called the Flower Field, which regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and changes themes each season.
The Precious Peony floral display at the Flower Dome is unique. It featured more than 70 artifacts of Chinese and Peranakan culture.
Flower Dome Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30) Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price) Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour
Cloud Forest
Another fantastic paid attraction at the Gardens by the Bay is the Cloud Forest which replicates the cloud forest mountain environment. It is a tall structure simulating a mountain with a 35-meter waterfall and a luscious green mountain with tropical plants from around the world.
The dome itself is as big as a 1.5 regular football field with lots to see. You can easily spend well over an hour and we spent almost 2 hours here on our visit.
You can see many of these exotic plants up close via the guided path, along the Tree Top Walk. Make your way to the mountain peak at Lost World with flower and plant displays.
Cloud Forest Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:00) Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price) Recommended Visit Duration: 1.5 hour
Floral Fantasy
The beautiful Floral Fantasy is an indoor exhibit of creative floral arrangements. It is the best place for flowers and taking pictures! There are over 15,000 fresh-cut and preserved flowers hanging from the ceiling and mixed with other creative displays. You can follow the trail and see a diverse garden landscape.
Floral Fantasy Opening Hours: Weekday from 10:00 to 19:00 and weekend from 10:00 to 20:00 Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price) Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour
Supertree Grove
A visit to Supertree Grove is a truly magical experience. This futuristic Supertree is an Avatar-ish forest made with 12 giant high metal trees ranging from 25 and 50 meters tall. Every supertree has different functions, some have photovoltaics, some are cooling towers, and some release moisture into the environment. These trees were symbols of modern architecture.
We recommended reaching the place in the evening while there’s still light so that the gardens and the plants can be enjoyed before heading over the light show.
Supertree Grove Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30) Required Admission Fee: Free (With add-on Paid Attraction to OCBC Skywalk and Skytree Observation Deck) Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour (For Day Visit)
Supertree Observatory
A visit to the Supertree Grove ground area is free. But you can also opt to have go observation deck and the skywalk. The views from the skyway bridge and observation deck are fantastic and well worth the admission fee. Truly recommend this experience.
Skytree Observation is located on the canopy level (about 16 stories high) of the tallest Supertree. There is an observation deck that offers unparalleled views of Gardens by the Bay’s lush surrounds and the Marina Bay area. And there’s even a restaurant at the top!
Supertree Observatory Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30) Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price) Recommended Visit Duration: 45 minutes
OCBC Skywalk
Sponsored and branded by OCBC, one of the Singapore banks, the OCBC Skywalk is one of the popular attractions in the Garden by the Bay. This OCBC Skywalk is a 128m-long aerial walkway suspended between two Supertrees at 22 meters above ground.
It takes about 15 minutes to walk the entire skywalk. Another fun way to see Supertree Grove and the surrounding area in Marina Bay!
OCBC Skywalk Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30) Required Admission Fee: Yes Recommended Visit Duration: 15 minutes
Gardens by the Bay Light Show
At night you won’t want to miss the amazing Light Show at the Supertree Grove called Garden Rhapsody.
It is one of the most popular attractions in Gardens by the Bay. You’ll be amazed by the spectacular light and music show where the Supertrees light and change colors to the beat of the music. The ambiance is truly amazing.
The 15min light show starts at 19:45 and 20:45 every evening and it is truly worth seeing during your trip. We would advise getting to the Supertree Grove at least 30 minutes before the show starts as it gets pretty crowded.
Find yourself a good spot. It was an experience watching silence a beautiful atmospheric light show. The trees light up to the music which is themed depending on the time of year you visit.
Pro Tips: Arrive at least 30 min early, especially during weekends and special occasions as the show gets really packed.
Gardens and Parks inside Garden by Bay
There are many gardens and parks where you explore when visiting Gardens by the Bay. All are free entry. Feel free to take a quick visit and include it on your Gardens by the Bay itinerary.
Heritage Garden: North of the Supertree Grove is the Heritage Gardens. The four themed gardens provide some insight into the significance of plants to Singapore’s ethnic groups. These gardens combine plants, trees, and all kinds of cultural expressions.
Far East Organization Children’s Garden – This is the Gardens by the Bay children’s playground with both wet and dry play areas. Entry is only for adults with kids.
Kingfisher Wetlands and Kingfisher Lake provide a new sanctuary in the heart of the city for wildlife. The area is over 15,000 sqm and has over 200 mangrove trees and a diversity of exotic flora and fauna. A place where visitors can take a stroll to enjoy nature.
More Gardens by the Bay Travel Tips
Here is a quick guide to commonly asked questions for those who are visiting Gardens by the Bay.
Is there an admission fee to visit Gardens by the Bay?
Most of the outdoor gardens of Gardens by the Bay are open for free to visitors. Only 5 attractions with admission fees apply for entry – The Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Observatory, OCBC Skywalk, and Floral Fantasy.
What is the best time to visit garden by the Bay?
Visit Gardens by the Bay on weekdays to avoid the crowds. Go either early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is not too hot. This is an ideal time to explore the gardens and take in their lush beauty.
How many hours to visit Garden by the Bay?
Expect to spend between 3 to 4 hours to see the attractions. You will need a longer time if you are a flower lover.
Are there restaurants at Gardens by the Bay?
There are a variety of dining options at Gardens by the Bay such as fast food restaurants, cafes, casual dining restaurants, and formal dining establishments.
Overall: A Visit to Garden by the Bay
All in all, we hope you enjoyed this Gardens by the Bay travel guide blog post. It is a fantastic place to visit in Singapore and you will never get bored. We are still returning to explore other areas and discover hidden gardens and gems. A must-see attraction and include on your itinerary!
Are you planning on going to Singapore? Check out our Singapore travel stories on what to see and do in this fantastic and vibrant city!
Whether you’re looking for the perfect city skyline accommodation or a budget hostel, we will share our recommendations for where to stay in Singapore with the best places and hotels in Singapore for accommodation.
Singapore is definitely a unique place and a popular place to visit in Asia. There are many interesting neighborhoods and world-class attractions like Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Bay Sands are absolute must-sees for every traveler. Come and visit Singapore for a few days to explore the city.
When visiting Singapore, it is necessary that you know where to stay in Singapore when you are visiting the city. There is no shortage of places to stay in Singapore, from budget hostels to luxury skyscrapers to Singapore hotels perfect for families. Thankfully, with the help of this accommodation guide, finding out where to stay in Singapore will be easier. Singapore also has some of the nicest boutique hotels that we would like to share with everyone.
Whether it is your first time or you have been to Singapore a few times, here is a quick summary of where to stay in Singapore for the best places and a few hotels that we highly recommended.
Finding places where you can stay in Singapore should be easy. The public transport of Singapore is so convenient with well connected by great public transport. This makes finding accommodation in Singapore much simpler. However, we still highly suggest you choose accommodation nearby the station which will greatly help you to save a lot of traveling time.
Generally, the best places to stay in Singapore are marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, Sentosa, and Clarke Quay. While accommodation in Singapore is not exactly cheap. But there are affordable options in Chinatown, Bugis, and Little India for budget travelers.
Here are quick tips for where to stay in Singapore:
Best place to stay in Singapore for first-timer – Marina Bay Sands
Best place to stay in Singapore for luxurious travelers – Orchard Road
Where to stay in Singapore for family travelers with kids – Sentosa
Best place to stay for nightlife – Riverside (Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay)
Where to stay in Singapore on a budget – Singapore Chinatown, Bugis, Little India
Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay is our top recommendation for where to stay in Singapore for first-timers. This area overlaps with the Central Business District, the Civic Quarter, and the trendy Clarke Quay, so you’re never far from daily activities. There are many upscale restaurants, bars, and shopping malls as well as popular attractions like the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore Flyer. So it is pretty convenient for action and visiting Singapore. Hotels here are amongst the most luxurious and offer the best views in Singapore.
Here are some of the top-rated hotels in the area:
Luxury: The iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel, as the name suggests is located on Marina Bay. It is one of the most popular if you are looking for where to stay in Singapore. Staying here means you will enjoy its stunning rooftop infinity pool, a myriad of panoramic viewpoints, classy restaurants, and the amazing Garden by the Bay.
The elegant rooms are so clean and comfortable. The Garden View is incredible, as you can watch the Gardens light show right from your balcony. One of the incredible ways to experience Singapore is by staying in Marina Bay Sands Hotel!
PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay
Luxury: PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay – another example of fine Singaporean hospitality. The fabulous hotel features elegant rooms with dramatic views of the Singapore skyline, a range of dining options, and a mineral water pool.
The hotel is simply beautiful with its interior decor. While the rooms offer panoramic views of Marina Bay and the city skyline. Spotlessly clean! The staff are amazing, friendly, and very helpful. Excellent location for MRT, shopping malls, and lots of eateries close by including a hawker market.
Everything was perfect and highly recommended if you are looking for where to stay in Singapore.
Orchard Road
Orchard Road is Singapore’s premier shopping district. It is a bustling neighborhood and home to many discount outlets, department stores, and upscale boutiques along the street. The Botanic Gardens which is Singapore’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site is also located nearby.
When looking for where to stay in Orchard Road, there are plenty of quality hotels from the top international hotel chains in this area. It is one of the best areas to stay for first-time visitors to Singapore.
Luxury: The luxurious Shangri-La Hotel is highly recommended for anyone looking for a luxurious stay in Singapore. It has a perfect location, a hideaway just 7 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road. The hotel has an incredible six hectares of tropical gardens, a swimming pool, a pond with a small waterfall, orchids galore, and plenty of palm trees. Many feature balconies overlooking the pool, waterfall, and lush vegetation reminiscent of a tropical island. A beautiful resort hotel for an amazing holiday in Singapore.
Staffs are extremely helpful and attentive. With its world-class friendly service, this hotel truly makes you feel welcome.
YOTEL Orchard Road
High-Range: Located in the heart of the vibrant Orchard Road district, YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road offers smoke-free accommodation in Singapore. The location is excellent, just situated next to Orchard Road. Plus, it is 270 meters from Orchard MRT Station, making it easily accessible to many places around Singapore. There are also many eateries around the hotel.
The rooms are very modern, and spacious with excellent views. All amenities are provided and the staffs are very helpful. Rooms are running fast, so it is best to reserve your room early!
Lloyd’s Inn
Mid-Range: Lloyd’s Inn is a boutique-style hotel perfect for a staycation in Singapore. It has only 34 rooms, a roof terrace, a garden deck, a pool, and an outdoor pantry, which overlooks the neighborhood. The bed was comfy and the room was adequate size for a short stay for travelers. Guests love the minimalist design aesthetics and the hospitality.
The location is also very convenient. Located off Killiney Road in a residential area, Lloyd’s Inn is a short walk to the heart of Orchard Road. Somerset MRT Station, Orchard Gateway, and Orchard Central shopping malls are within a 10-minute walk away.
Limited rooms are available and make sure to reserve your room early. You can check for rooms available here – Lloyd’s Inn.
Sentosa Island
Sentosa is a small island off the south coast of Singapore. It is a resort island and home to theme parks like Universal Studios and Resorts World Sentosa, beaches, and lush gardens. There are many attractions, activities, and adventures awaiting travelers of all ages.
Besides, we would recommend staying in Sentosa if you are looking for where to stay in Singapore for family travelers travelings with kids. Staying here would put you farther away from the attractions in central Singapore, but if you’re traveling with kids, then this is a good place to consider. While most of the accommodation in Sentosa island is mostly high-end, so the price is slightly pricy.
Check below for a list of accommodations in and around Sentosa Island:
Luxury: Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa is one of the best-located luxury hotels in the city. It offers modern amenities with the comfort of home, with an added bit of luxury. Enjoy a deluxe room, couple or family suites, one-bedroom villas, or private studios. You can opt for a private pool as well.
Just a 3-minute walk to Palawan Beach, and boasting panoramic views of the South China Sea. Besides, the property is located just 3 minutes from Universal Studios Singapore and the casino at Resorts World Sentosa. A free return shuttle to Harbourfront is included for hotel guests.
W Singapore – Sentosa Cove
Luxury: W Singapore – Sentosa Cove is an excellent resort-style hotel in a less crowded part of Sentosa. The property is elegant and beautiful. Rooms feature either partial or full views of the pool or ocean, with select rooms offering a balcony. The spa, gorgeous pool, and the facilities are pristine.
The staffs are very friendly, credible and helpful. Everything here is top-notch and you’re never going to want to leave. Truly a pleasant place if you are looking for where to stay in Singapore.
Village Hotel Sentosa
High-Range: Village Hotel Sentosa is a fantastic family-friendly option, this hotel delivers a unique offering on the island with brand-new amenities and activities. The rooms are comfy and super clean. The location is perfect and close to the free express monorail making it easy to get around and on and off the island. It is also nice walking to the beaches.
A perfect place to stay for family and kids if you are looking for where to stay in Singapore by spending a great time exploring Sentosa!
The lively Riverside (Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay) is one of the most popular nightlife spots in Singapore. The area is known as Boat Quay and Clarke Quay where restaurants, nightclubs, and chic pubs are mostly situated. While the newer Robertson Quay is on the west of Clarke Quay. It is a little bit calmer and more relaxed with some monuments and architecture.
Here you will find numerous trendiest bars, pubs, and restaurants along the Singapore river. The nightlife in the area is also quite high-spirited and vibrant, so if you’re wondering where to stay in Singapore for nightlife, this might be the perfect area for you.
Staying in this area will be convenient to enjoy a few drinks, dance the night away, and experience Singapore’s legendary nightlife scene.
Recommended Hotel in Riverside (Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay):
Luxury: Paradox Singapore Merchant Court – This beautiful resort hotel is the perfect retreat after a long day of sightseeing in the city. The property has a year-round outdoor pool, fitness center, hot tub, and garden. All guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, free toiletries, and a desk. All rooms include a private bathroom with a hairdryer, while certain rooms also offer a balcony and others also have river views. The metro station is just across the road, making it easy to get anywhere in the city, including the airport.
Park Regis Singapore
High-Range: Park Regis Singapore is another popular place to stay in Clarke Quay. The location is excellent, 250 meters from Clarke Quay MRT Station and Clarke Quay Central. The Singapore River Cruise and the entertainment and nightlife hub of Clarke Quay are within walking distance. The room is spacious and comfortable, perfect for business and leisure travelers.
Ibis Budget Clarke Quay
Mid-Range: Ibis Budget Clarke Quay with a fantastic location in the Clarke Quay area. This hotel is a 5-minute walk from the Clarke Quay MRT Station and the famous Singapore River. It’s also only a 30-minute walk from Marina Bay Sands along the water edge, and close to Chinatown. The rooms are clean and basic but it has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Where To Stay in Singapore On a Budget
If you are the budget type and looking for where to stay in Singapore on a budget, you can choose to stay in Bugis, Chinatowns, and Little India. These areas have many cheap accommodations with lower prices yet are accessable by public transport.
Singapore Chinatown
Singapore’s Chinatown is a traditional Chinese quarter where new and old seamlessly meet. It has a different vibe compared to Marina Bay and Orchard Road, this area has many rustic eateries, traditional shophouses, and religious attractions. It is one of the great places to visit in Singapore and best to spend at least one day exploring around.
When looking for where to stay in Singapore on a budget, Chinatown is a popular option. The neighborhood has many great food options and accommodations at reasonable prices. This area is also top spot for hostels and mid-budget hotels.
Check below for some of the best budget accommodation options in Singapore Chinatown.
High-Range: The Scarlet Singapore is housed in a preserved pre-war shophouse in culturally rich Chinatown. The rooms are beautiful decor and elegantly designed. The whole property is clean and in perfect condition. The location is also very central, 2 minutes away from Chinatown, with two SMRT stations that are reachable within a 2-10 minute walk. Plenty of food options nearby.
A great boutique hotel for an overnight night stay if you are looking for where to stay in Singapore Chinatown.
Hotel 1888 Collection
Mid-Budget: The Hotel 1888 Collection is a well-designed and compact room that is ideal for a short stay in Singapore. The rooms are basic but with all the amenities. The property has a great location that is within walking distance to train stations and an abundance of good food options. The Chinatown MRT Station is just a mere 3-minute walk. The best place to stay in Singapore Chinatown for convenience and reasonable price.
CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel Chinatown
Budget: CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel Chinatown offers a mix of dorm-style beds and private double or quad dorm rooms at reasonable prices. It’s a great budget option for those who prefer clean well-kept space. All facilities are available. The staff were all friendly and made sure your comfort is their priority.
CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel is located on Smith Street in Chinatown, home to Singapore’s popular outdoor food street. A 5-minute walk from both Chinatown and Outram Park MRT Station.
Bugis
For a budget-friendly trip to Singapore, consider staying in the Bugis area. Bugis was once part of a red-light district but it has been rebuilt to become to commercial and residential-friendly space.
Bugis Street is one of Singapore’s most iconic shopping alleys with hundreds of stalls selling street food, local souvenirs, and all sorts of fashion pieces. Many events are also hosted at Bugis. The Bugis MRT station is well-connected to the area, making it very easy to access.
Here is our recommendation for where to stay in Singapore – Bugis:
High-Range: Village Hotel Bugis – This popular hotel is situated in the central of Singapore’s Arab, Peranakan, and Indian heritage districts. So you’ll be in the hustle and bustle, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and top attractions. The charming Haji Lane and Arab Street is merely 2-minute away. Bugis MRT is also nearby. Good size rooms, comfy bed.
In short, Village Hotel Bugis is a good hotel if you are looking for where to stay in Singapore – Bugis. Cheap price and great value for money.
Ibis Budget Bugis
Mid-Budget: ibis budget Singapore Bugis is a cozy hotel that offers affordable and modern accommodation. The location is good it is very close to Bugis junction and lots of restaurants. It is about a 10-minute walk from Bugis MRT Station and a 15-minute walk to Parco Bugis Junction and Bugis Village.
The room is simple and spacious enough for single or double occupants. Great budget hotel in Singapore.
POD Boutique Capsule Hostel
Budget: POD Boutique Capsule Hostel is a chic hostel that offers capsule bedding for guests. Guests can choose to stay the private rooms or dormitory rooms. Clean rooms and common spaces are quiet and cozy.
The hostel is strategically located in the center of the Bugis. It has a great location and walking distance of a lot of cafes and tourist spots. Marina Bay is about 10 minute’s walk, and also can walk to Bugis MRT, Junction Mall, and Bugis Village. There are bus stations nearby. Very clean and comfortable.
Little India
Little India is – as the name suggests – home to Singapore’s Indian community. Many Indian restaurants, eateries, colorful shops, and a few MRT stations in the area. Plus, this neighborhood is home to a good range of mid-level to budget accommodation options and is considered as one of the best places for budget travelers when looking for where to stay in Singapore.
Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:
High-Range: Wanderlust, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood is a modern and cozy Apartment Hotel. The property is housed in a heritage 1920s Art Deco style building in Little India, and beautifully renovated with mixes a minimalistic aesthetic with stylish touch. The rooms are cleverly designed to make the most of the space. Getting around is easy where the s a minute’s walk from Jalan Besar MRT Station, a 5-minute walk from Rochor MRT Station.
Everything was still just as fabulous!
7 Wonders Hostel
Budget: 7 Wonders Hostel at Upper Dickson offers affordable stays for budget travelers. It has dormitory rooms and private family rooms for larger groups. It is less than 1 km from Mustafa Centre. The location in Little India is good for nice food and reasonable prices. The bed was comfy, with fresh bedding and curtains for privacy. There aren’t many cheap places to stay in Singapore but this one is very reasonable.
Overall: Best Place to Stay in Singapore
All in all, hopefully, you now have more information about the city’s different areas, and deciding where to stay in Singapore has become a little easier. Visiting Singapore will be an enriching experience and a complete contrast to many cities you will experience in Asia.
For first-timers, Marina Bay is our top pick for where to stay in Singapore and Chinatown is a great option on a budget! Singapore accommodation is still expensive compared to nearby countries. If possible, try to reserve your room earlier if you can grab the deal!
Are you planning on going to Singapore? Check out our Singapore travel stories on what to see and do in this fantastic and vibrant city!
If you are planning to visit many places in the Kansai region, this JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is a must-buy. Just plan your itinerary and it will greatly save a lot for transportation. Value for money!
Japan offers different kinds of transport passes to make traveling within regions easier for foreign visitors. In the Kansai region, the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is one of many transport pass visitors can use to explore the region. It is a super-saving transport pass that allows you to explore the Kansai region with unlimited travel for five consecutive days. Travelers can utilize the pass for unlimited travel on designated train and bus lines (including Shinkansen and limited express trains) in the Kansai Region.
There are many places you can include in your itinerary with Kansai Wide Area Pass that Okayama, Takamatsu (Kagawa Prefecture), Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture), Amanohashidate (Kyoto), Shirahama Kishi and Kii-Katsuura (Wakayama Prefecture). The coverage area is wider than the regular Kansai Area Pass and is best to use for long-journey trains for the Kansai Wide Area itinerary.
To find out more about the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass, make sure to read our details travel guide blog here!
The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is a rail pass for exclusive use by foreign tourists. This pass allows you to explore the Kansai region and is valid for unlimited travel on the designated railway. It can be used for local, rapid, and special rapid JR trains on JR-WEST Conventional lines. Some trains require seats to be reserved. Make sure you reserve seats before getting on to those trains.
Here are the valid trains to be used for JR Kansai Wide Area Pass:
Unlimited use of trains along the JR lines shown on the map above.
Seat reservations can be made for Free! The first six reservations can alternatively be made at ticket machines, but subsequent reservations can be made only at ticket offices.
The Sanyo Shinkansen is covered between Shin-Osaka and Okayama (including Nozomi and Mizuho trains). However, the Tokaido Shinkansen between Kyoto and Osaka is not covered.
Haruka (Hello Kitty) train from the airport can be used.
Express Trains Haruka, Kuroshio, Thunderbird, Kounotori, Super Hakuto, Super Inaba, and etc. also can used. (available for the reserved seat ticket)
Unlimited use of the Kyoto Tango Railway, which provides access to Amanohashidate.
Unlimited use of the Chizukyu Express Line between Kamigori and Chizu, a non-JR line that provides the fastest train access to Tottori.
Unlimited use of the Wakayama Railway.
Unlimited use of local JR buses between Kyoto Station, Takao and Shuzan, between Obama and Omi-Imazu, and between Fukuchiyama, and Sonobe.
Free use of rental bicycles at designated Ekirin Kun outlets within the covered area.
Pro Tips: Always double-check if the lines are covered by the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass as some of the route is not applicable. The price is a steal if you use it correctly, otherwise, you would need to pay extra if you took the wrong train.
How To Buy JR Kansai Wide Area Pass
Travelers can purchase the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass from the travel agency. Klook sells a range of passes from the Whole Japan Rail Pass to the region-specific pass. We usually get the Japan transport pass from Klook before arriving in Japan. It is cheaper and very convenient.
The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is valid for consecutive 5 days. It will greatly save a lot if you’re able to plan and narrow down the places you want to visit with this regional pass.
How To Use JR Kansai Wide Area Pass
Travelers can purchase the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass from the travel agency. Klook and KKday sells a range of passes from the Whole Japan Rail Pass to the region-specific pass. We usually get the Japan transport pass from home country before arriving in Japan. It is cheaper and very convenient.
It is very easy to redeem the JR Kansai Wide Pass with multiple languages on the machine. Scan the QR code and scan the passport and tickets are dispensed. At the same time, I can reserve tickets to locations I have on my itinerary.
Enter dates, and times, choose the schedule available, and insert the 5-day pass ticket in the machine. And the reserved tickets will be dispensed along again with the 5 days pass. Reserve up to 6 times. Then used it for non-reserved random trips!
Planning on JR Kansai Wide Area Pass Itinerary
There are many ways to explore Kansai Japan. This JR Kansai Wide Area Pass itinerary focuses on the Kansai Wide region and takes you to some of the top destinations with longer traveling journeys. Be a smart traveler and plan your itinerary well to fully optimize the pass. Here are some of the places I visited using this pass that you can add to your itinerary.
Suggested places to visit for JR Kansai Wide Area Pass Itinerary:
Okayama and Kurashiki (1 – 2 days)
Himeji (1 day)
Kobe (1 – 2 days)
Kinosaki Onsen (1 – 2 days)
Amanohashidate and Ine Funaya (1 – 2 days)
Wakayama City (1 day)
Shirahama (1 day)
Nachi Falls (1 – 2 days)
Pro Tips: It is advised to check the required traveling journey from/to the desired destination. We recommended allocating at least one full day to explore the area. If time is allowable, it is also best to stay overnight to have a more relaxed traveling pace.
Pre-Trip Essential
The easiest way to explore the Kansai Wide region is to enter Japan through Kansai International Airport (KIX). You can redeem your JR Kansai Wide Area Pass at the ticketing machine at the airport. The best thing is Haruka Airport line to Osaka also can be used for JR Kansai Wide Area. Next, plan for the first destination to the nearby cities.
Take note that the JR Kansai Wide Area is valid for consecutive 5 days. Since it is a relatively short 5-day consecutive day pass, you may opt to have it activated at a later date. The duration will start counting when you start boarding the train or on the first boarding day on the reserved seat.
Depending on your itinerary planning, you can choose to base yourself in Osaka or nearby cities with easy access to the JR station, and then do a day trip. Alternatively, consider staying at the places of visit along the journey. We will recommend some of the best places to stay for each travel destination.
Recommended accommodation at Umeda:
Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda is a 3-star hotel situated nearby Umeda Station. It is a decent chain of business hotels in Japan. All rooms are cozy and modern. Very suited and practical for the traveler who looks for a comfortable stay. Reasonable price tag too!
HOTEL UNIZO Osaka Umeda is perfectly located near with Umeda railway and subway station. Stay here for one or two days and explore the city and surrounding attractions easily.
Okayama
Firstly, use your JR Kansai Wide Area Pass to travel from Shin-Osaka station to Okayama in Okayama Prefecture. To maximize your day, we suggest starting as early as possible and taking the Shinkansen to get to Okayama in under 1 hour. The Bullet Train “Sanyo Shinkansen” is covered with this pass!
Built-in 1597, Okayama Castle (岡山城) is one of Okayama’s main sightseeing attractions. Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed in the war of 1945 and it replicated what it looked like in 1966. Unlike the traditional white castle, Okayama Castle is unique as it has a black exterior. The building is not so big but a beauty nonetheless.
Okayama Korakuen Garden (岡山後楽園) is one of the Three Great Gardens in Japan (the other two are Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito) and is a fabulous spot to visit after exploring the Okayama Castle. The best place to visit to explore and see the Japanese Garden. It’s easy to get to since it’s only a few minutes walk from the south side of Okayama Castle. A combined entrance ticket for Okayama Castle and the Korakuen Garden is available.
How To Get there: Shinkansen to Okayama station from Osaka takes you less than an hour. Keep in mind that the Shinkansen access for JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is only valid between Osaka and Okayama.
Kurashiki
If you have extra time in the afternoon of your Okayama day trip, head to Kurashiki (倉敷市) for a few hours. Kurashiki deserves a full day since there are a lot of attractions to visit. But if you have limited time, it is still worth visiting Kurashiki to experience Japan’s Venice town.
The Bikan Historical Quarter is a former warehouse area with traditional facades. There are plenty of shops, museums, pottery shops, and other fun shops scattered throughout the area. Take your time strolling around and you’ll love the quaint area with the gorgeous canal setting. If the weather is good, take a canal ride or get a rickshaw to drag you around.
Depending on your itinerary, you’ll either continue to your next destination at the end of the day or spend the night in Okayama. You can choose to stay at a hotel close to Okayama Station or nearby Okayama Castle. We recommended Mitsui Garden Hotel Okayama which is conveniently located next to the Okayama Station.
Getting there: To get to Kurashiki, catch a 20 minutes local JR train to Kurashiki from Okayama station. Next, walk 10 minutes to the Kurashiki Bikan historical area.
Himeji
What better way to plan your Japan trip than by visiting a Japanese castle? Also known as White Heron Castle, Himeji Castle (姫路城) was one of the most popular castles in Japan. It is arguably the best of Japan’s 12 original castles, and without a doubt its best maintained. Himeji Castle is also the first castle in Japan to be registered as a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage in 1993 as well as designated as a National Treasure in 1951. This enormous, gorgeous castle with sprawling grounds is definitely worth a visit.
Himeji Castle is known as White Egret because of its white color. The building dates back to the 15th century, although it was completed in 1609. To get to the castle, you have to go through the ticket office first and then take a winding path to reach the castle. You can walk inside and climb up lots of steps to the top floor. The view is worth the climb.
Plan to stay at least a couple of hours. You may also couple your visit to the Koko-en garden, just next to the Himeji Castle. An ideal day trip to include for your JR Kansai Wide Area Pass itinerary!
How To Get There: Getting to Himeji is pretty straightforward. Less than an hour by Shinkansen from Osaka will take you to Himeji Station. The castle is about a 20-minute walk from the train station. Alternatively, a shuttle bus at ¥100 will bring you to the main entrance.
Kobe
Most people stop in Kobe just to try the famous marbled Kobe beef but there are a couple of attractions that you can include on your itinerary. This charming port city has the perfect mix of international influence and authentic Japanese with loads of art, architecture, and history awaiting you to explore.
Firstly, board the JR train or Shinkansen to Kobe with less than 30 minutes ride, and you can start exploring Kobe.
The Kitanocho area is a charming historical district with western-designed houses owned by foreign residents who came in during the late Meiji period. Most of them are well-preserved and several of these former residences are open to the public as museums with entry charges to get in.
A trip to Kobe should not miss to taste the world-class Wagyu beef at Kobe. There are many options for Kobe Beef around the city. We recommendation the Steakland, known for its affordable cuts. The beef was melt-in-your-mouth, juicy, and flavourful!
In the late afternoon, spend your time in Kobe by visiting the Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown) or Kobe Harborland. The view is fantastic and there are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants in the area.
Where To Stay: Sannomiya and Motomachi areas for easy getting around. The Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kobe Sannomiya Chuo Dori is one of the popular picks with spacious rooms and comfortable large beds. The price is also very reasonable.
Kinosaki Onsen
Locate in Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen (城崎温泉) is a quaint hot spring town in the lush mountainous area. The main point of visiting an onsen town is, of course, to enjoy the hot springs. Kinosaki Onsen has boasted 7 public baths and has been running since the Heian era (794-1185). Soaking in an onsen is one of the best things you can do when visiting Japan!
The town is fairly compact and is a very pleasant little place to explore. Wander along the narrow, winding streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, restaurants, souvenirs, and specialty stores worthwhile to visit. It’s pleasant wandering around this area. A taste of a Japanese ancient town.
When visiting Kinosaki, it is best to spend at least one night in the traditional ryokan to experience the traditional Japanese inn. We stayed at Ryokan Sinonomeso, a mid-range ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen. Our private room is a traditional Japanese style and we sleep on the tatami mats and futon mattresses. It is even best to include the Kaiseiki dinner for your stay!
How To Get there: Catch a train to Kinosaki Onsen and then explore the town on foot. It takes about 2.5 hours by train from Osaka or Kyoto. Take note that limited express trains to Kinosaki Onsen are all reserved seats.
Amanohashidate
If you want to visit nature with beautiful scenery, Amanohashidate is the perfect option for you! Plus, you can save a lot transport fee by using JR Kansai Wide Area Pass.
Amanohashidate (天橋立) is a natural land bridge, covered with pine trees that spans Miyazu Bay in northern Kyoto. Together with Matsushima Bay in Miyagi and Itsukushima Shrine’s “floating” torii gate, it’s considered one of Japan’s three most scenic views. It’s best appreciated by the amazing view from the mountains on either side of the bay. You can get to the top via a chairlift or by monorail to enjoy the best views of Amanohashidate.
Spend your time wandering around by walking, biking, boating, or taking a cable car ride up to the mountain to enjoy the view. There are also a few small temples and shrines like Chionji Temple, Nariaiji Temple, and Motoise Kono Shrine to include on your itinerary.
Getting there: Amanohashidate is over two hours away and makes for a scenic day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.
Ine Funaya
A bonus side trip to Ine Funaya from Amanohashidate is one of the highlights of my recent trip to the Kansai Wide region.
Ine town (伊根) is a charming fishing village surrounded by the ocean with a beautiful coastline along the bay. It is known for its Funaya, or boat houses that have been around since the Edo period. A visit to Ine Funaya Boathouse offers an amazing abundance of outdoor scenery with cool sea breezes. The best place to experience a different side of Kyoto.
Getting there: There is no train connected to Ine town. From Amanohashidate, Visitors can take the Tankai bus from the Amanohashidate area to Ine. The bus journey takes you about 30 to 60 minutes departing when you boarded the bus.
Wakayama City
If you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations near Osaka or Kyoto, Wakayama City might just be perfect for you. It is one of Japan’s lesser-known cities that’s located on the Kii Peninsula in the Kansai Region of Japan.
The Wakayama Electric Railway with theme trains are covered!
Wakayama City is about 1 hour by train from Osaka and 1.5 hours from Kyoto, making a great day trip by train.
Shirahama (白浜) is a popular Japan’s summer beach holiday destination. It is known for its pristine white beach and is filled with an abundance of hot springs. Visitors can enjoy soaking in an onsen while enjoying the stunning ocean views. Besides, there are also other attractions such as Engetsu, Senjojiki Rock Plateau, Sandanbeki, and Sandanbeki Cave to keep you busy.
Another major attraction of the area is Adventure World. It is a huge theme park that integrates with an amusement park, zoo, and aquarium all together in the town. Don’t forget to check out the family of Giant Pandas who are the main stars of the park. A fun destination for a family day out!
In short, Shirahama is a fantastic destination for a traveler to immerse themselves in a different side of Japan.
Getting there: Take the Kuroshio Limited Express train to go to Shirahama Station. From Osaka, it’ll take about 2.5 hours for a one-way. Trains depart per hour, make sure to plan accordingly.
Nachi Falls
The serene Nachi Falls is where you will find one of the most famous views of Japan!
For those who plan to visit Nachi Falls, it’s a slightly long journey so make sure you start early! But still, we recommended overnight at least one night as the one way train journey already take you about 5 hours from Kyoto / Osaka. Travelers will need to heading to Nachikatsuura, an underrated fishing town located in Kii Peninsula. This small town is the gateway to seeing the famous Nachi Falls.
When visiting Nachi Waterfall, you can’t miss the Seigantoji Temple (Seiganto Ji Temple) and Sanjudo Pagoda. All of them are situated next to each other in the Kii mountain range. These majestic attractions have turned into a picturesque sightseeing spot when the three-story pagoda towers over a lush forest with Nachi no Taki falling in the background. A majestic view!
Hikers will choose to hike through the Kumano Kodo trails for several days. But if you are only interested in the Nachi Falls, then you might also plan for a trip visit to see the amazing view.
Getting there: From Osaka, you can take the Express Kuroshio Train all the way to Kii-Katsuura station. Note that this is not a bullet train, and the journey will take around 4.5+ hours. Also, all train is reserved seats. From the Kii-Katsuura station, transfer by bus to Nachi Falls.
Suggested JR Kansai Wide Area Pass Itinerary
Above are popular places to include for your itinerary using the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass. The Pass is the most valuable although it only valid for only 5 days. You can pick from the above places and plan your trip based on your interest.
To ultized the 5 days using the pass, here is the sample itinerary with JR Kansai Wide Area Pass.
Option 1 – Explore Hyogo Prefecture (Kobe, Kinosaki Onsen) and Kyoto by the Sea:
Day 1: Day trip to Okayama and Kurashiki. Stay in Osaka.
Day 2: Visit Himeji and spend the late afternoon at Kobe. Stay in Osaka.
Day 3: From Osaka to Kinosaki Onsen. Stay in traditional ryokan with kaiseiki meal. Nishimuraya Honkan is the best ryokan in Kinosaki.
Day 4: From Kinosaki Onsen to Amanohashidate. Stay in Amonohashida.
Day 5: Visit Ine Funaya. Back to Kyoto / Osaka.
Option 2 – Explore Kii Katsuura region:
Day 1: Depart from Osaka to Wakayama. Explore Wakayama City.
Day 2: Spend the next day at Shirahama. Soaking in an onsen while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
Day 3: Continue the trip to Nachikatsuura. Visit Nachi Falls and stay in Hotel Urashima.
Day 4: Visit Hongu and Shingu for its sacred Kumano Grand Shrine.
Day 5: Back to Osaka.
There are still many places you can include such as Tottori, Shiga, Naoshima, Takamatsu, and more for your trip using this Kansai Region Pass. Planning your next trip again. Sounds good right?
Overall: Is JR Kansai Wide Area Pass Worth it?
All in all, if you are traveling to Kansai and visiting different cities in the region, the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass can be a very good money-saving transport pass. The price is very reasonable and travelers can use this to visit one of the coverage areas, such as Amanohashidate, Kinosaki Onsen, Okayama, or even the Kumano Region. We visited many places using the JR Kansai Wide Area Pass and highly recommended it.
By using the pass on your JR Kansai Wide Area Pass itinerary, you can travel to many places with unlimited travel within the designated train lines. With a round trip to Amanohashidate or any of the places, it’s already worth the ticket price, definitely worth it. Take note that this pass will not pay off for short-distance travel around Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe alone.
Lastly, we hope you enjoy our JR Kansai Wide Area Travel Guide blog. If you need more inspiration for your itinerary, feel free to read our travel stories below.
Traveling to Kyoto Prefecture (Amanohashidate, Ine Funaya):
