February 5th: The First Day of Adventure
Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey from Alor Setar to Osaka, Japan, with a transit in Kuala Lumpur. The day started early, filled with anticipation and last-minute checks to ensure everything was in place for the trip.
Alor Setar to Kuala Lumpur – Flight MH1209
After a quick breakfast, I headed to Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) in Alor Setar. The airport, though small, was bustling with travelers. Check-in for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH1209 was smooth, and by 10:00 AM, I was already at the boarding gate, soaking in the excitement of the journey ahead.
The flight took off at 10:40 AM, a short but comfortable one-hour journey to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). During the flight, I enjoyed a window seat view of the vast paddy fields of Kedah before the landscape transformed into the urban skyline of Kuala Lumpur. We landed safely around 11:45 AM, and I proceeded to the international departure area for my next flight to Osaka.
Transit at Kuala Lumpur International Airport
KLIA is always a familiar yet fascinating place to transit. With a long layover before my flight to Osaka (MH52) at 11:35 PM, I took the opportunity to explore and relax.
Kuala Lumpur to Osaka – Flight MH52
As night fell, the excitement for Osaka grew. Boarding for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH52 started around 11:00 PM, and by 11:35 PM, we were airborne. The Airbus A330-200 offered a comfortable space for the 6-hour journey, with in-flight entertainment and delicious meals. I chose a light dinner, then settled in for some rest as we flew over the South China Sea, heading toward Japan.
February 6th: Arrival in Osaka
The flight landed at Kansai International Airport (KIX) early in the morning. After clearing immigration and collecting my luggage, I immediately arranged for my two heavy bags to be delivered to my hotel using the JAL ABC luggage service. This was a great decision as it allowed for a luggage-free exploration of Osaka on the first day.
Exploring Dotonbori and Kuromon Market
With my luggage taken care of, I took the Rapit Nankai Line from Kansai Airport to Osaka. The train was smooth and comfortable, offering great views along the way. Upon arrival, I headed straight to Dotonbori, one of Osaka’s most vibrant districts, famous for its neon lights, shopping, and street food.
Panga Halal Wagyu Restaurant: Enjoyed a delicious meal of halal wagyu beef, which was an incredible experience.
Kuromon Market: Walked through the market, sampling fresh seafood, takoyaki, and other Japanese delicacies.
Glico Man Sign: Took a moment to admire and take photos with the famous Glico Man billboard, an iconic landmark of Dotonbori that symbolizes the energetic and lively spirit of Osaka.
Check-in at Citadines Namba
After a fulfilling day of exploration, I headed to Citadines Namba Osaka to check in. The hotel was modern and comfortable, offering a perfect space to unwind after a long journey. The convenient location made it an excellent base for the upcoming days in Osaka.
The first full day in Osaka was off to a fantastic start. With great food, a lively atmosphere, and a hassle-free way to explore, I couldn’t wait to see what the rest of the trip had in store!
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February 7th: A Day of Food and Tech in Osaka
The day started with an exciting breakfast experience at Kuromon Market, a paradise for food lovers. For the first time, we indulged in the Wagyu Burger Evolution at Kuromin, a fantastic fusion of Japanese wagyu beef and a classic burger concept. The freshness and flavors were absolutely perfect, setting the tone for an adventurous day ahead.
Technology Exploration Walk
With our appetites satisfied, we embarked on a technology exploration walk to discover Osaka’s fascinating gadget and electronics scene.
Pre-loved Devices and Gadgets: Explored various stores selling second-hand tech items, marveling at the variety of devices available at great prices.
Yodobashi Line from Namba to Umeda: We took the Yodobashi Line from Namba to Umeda, eager to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology.
Daimaru and Yodobashi Umeda: The massive Yodobashi Umeda store was overwhelming in the best way possible—endless rows of cameras, laptops, gaming consoles, and futuristic appliances.
Bic Camera: Another heaven for tech enthusiasts, where we explored the latest gadgets and compared prices.
Return to Nipponbashi and Dinner
After an exhilarating day immersed in technology, we took the Midosuji Line from Umeda to Nipponbashi, making our way back toward familiar territory.
With a full stomach and countless new experiences, we headed back to our hotel, ready to rest up for another adventure-filled day in Osaka.
February 8th: A Full Day of Exploration in Osaka
We started the day with a breakfast feast at Kuromon Market, indulging in grilled king crab, baby octopus, and skewered unagi—an unforgettable experience for the taste buds.
Exploring Namba Walk and Dotonbori
With breakfast fueling our energy, we set out to explore Namba Walk, an underground shopping street that stretches from Nipponbashi to Namba. This maze of shops and eateries was an incredible sight, filled with both modern and traditional Japanese elements.
We then spent time exploring Dotonbori in depth, soaking in its lively atmosphere and discovering hidden gems along the way.
Shopping for Souvenirs & Cosmetics: Picked up gifts and daily essentials at various stores.
Tonbori River Cruise: Took a relaxing boat ride along the Dotonbori River, enjoying a different perspective of the bustling city.
Don Quijote Ferris Wheel: Ended the afternoon with a ride on the iconic Donki Ferris Wheel, offering stunning views of Osaka.
Halal Culinary Delights
For lunch, we dined at Gyukatsu Halal Ramen Restaurant, where we savored delicious gyukatsu (deep-fried beef cutlet) and comforting ramen. Dinner was at Kukuru Takoyaki, where we enjoyed the famous Osaka-style takoyaki, freshly prepared and incredibly delicious.
After a full day of adventure, we walked back to the hotel, reminiscing about the incredible experiences Osaka had to offer.
The Scenic Ride to Nara
The journey from Namba to Kintetsu Nara aboard the Aoniyoshi was nothing short of spectacular. The train offered a smooth, comfortable ride that made the trip feel like a mini vacation in itself. As I arrived in Nara, the first stop was the famous Todai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. The sheer size and grandeur of the Buddha were breathtaking, and the temple grounds, surrounded by ancient trees, were the perfect setting for quiet reflection.
Of course, Nara is also known for its friendly deer that roam freely around the park. I couldn’t resist feeding them some crackers, and the interaction with these gentle creatures was a highlight of my visit.
Exploring Kyoto's Timeless Beauty
After soaking in the sights in Nara, it was time to board the Aoniyoshi once more, heading toward the historic city of Kyoto. The ride was as smooth as before, and before I knew it, I had arrived in Kyoto, a city known for its traditional temples and tranquil atmosphere. My next stop was the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a magical place where towering bamboo stalks create a canopy of green overhead. Walking through the grove felt like stepping into a different world—peaceful, serene, and utterly captivating.
The Shinkansen Experience
Next up was the Shinkansen ride from Kyoto to Shin-Osaka. The speed and efficiency of the Shinkansen never cease to amaze me. It felt like a futuristic experience, and the comfortable seats and smooth ride made the journey both relaxing and exhilarating at the same time.
Dinner in Dotonbori
Arriving in Shin-Osaka, I hopped onto the Midosuji Line and made my way to Namba. By this point, my stomach was grumbling, and I was in the mood for something flavorful. I found myself at a lovely Indian halal restaurant in the bustling Dotonbori area, where I treated myself to a hearty and satisfying meal. The vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, with its neon lights and lively street scenes, made the meal even more special.
A Day Well Spent
After a fulfilling dinner, I took a leisurely walk back to Citadines Namba, where I was staying. Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had experienced. From the majestic Buddha in Nara to the tranquil bamboo groves in Kyoto, and the excitement of the Shinkansen ride to the lively streets of Osaka, every moment was a treasure. I had clocked in an impressive 23,000 steps, and though my feet were sore, my heart was full.
It was a day of discovery, adventure, and pure joy—one I’ll never forget. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, I highly recommend taking a similar journey to experience the unique beauty and culture of these incredible cities
Goodbye Osaka, Hello Beijing: A Journey Home
After an unforgettable adventure in Osaka, it was time to head home. I boarded the Nankai Rapit train from Namba to Kansai Airport, feeling a mix of excitement to return and sadness to leave this vibrant city behind. The journey through the quiet train stations and the smooth ride to the airport was the perfect way to start my journey back.
The Flight to Beijing
My flight home was with Air China, with a transit in Beijing before continuing to Kuala Lumpur. I was on CA128 from Kansai to Beijing, and the flight was relatively smooth. There’s always something special about the thrill of takeoff and the anticipation of a new destination—even if it’s just for a layover.
Exploring Beijing During a 20-Hour Transit
With a 20-hour transit in Beijing, I had plenty of time to stretch my legs and explore the city. After landing, I dropped off my luggage and set out for a morning of sightseeing. Beijing’s unique blend of ancient history and modern charm was evident everywhere I looked.
Continuing the Journey to Kuala Lumpur
After a whirlwind morning in Beijing, it was time to continue my journey. I boarded CA872 for the final leg of the trip to Kuala Lumpur. The flight was comfortable, and I found myself reflecting on the amazing adventures I had just experienced.
As the plane ascended and the lights of Beijing faded below, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the incredible journey I had just completed.
Homeward Bound
After the long flights, I finally touched down in Kuala Lumpur—tired but incredibly happy and enriched by the experiences of my trip. From Japan’s ancient temples and modern cities to Beijing’s rich heritage, it had truly been a memorable journey filled with adventure, discovery, and unforgettable moments.
As my 8-day journey comes to a close, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences I’ve had in Japan. From the vibrant streets of Osaka to the peaceful serenity of Kyoto and Nara, every moment has been an adventure filled with rich culture, delicious food, and awe-inspiring landmarks.
Exploring Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, and the iconic Glico Man sign was a perfect introduction to the electric energy of Osaka. The tech exploration walk through Umeda and Nipponbashi gave me a glimpse into Japan’s cutting-edge technology scene, while the picturesque beauty of Arashiyama’s bamboo groves and the historical depth of Kyoto’s temples left a lasting impression.
My days were filled with adventure, from indulging in unique halal culinary delights like wagyu beef and takoyaki to taking relaxing boat rides along the Dotonbori River. Each moment was a new discovery, whether it was shopping for souvenirs at Namba Walk or riding the Ferris wheel for an aerial view of Osaka.
The journey, though intense with over 23,000 steps in one day, was rewarding and full of memories I’ll cherish for a lifetime. As I boarded MH1208 for the return journey home, I felt a sense of fulfillment knowing I had made the most of every single day.
Now, back in Arau, the memories of Japan are fresh in my mind, and I look forward to the next adventure that awaits. Until then, I’ll cherish the moments of this unforgettable trip that took me from the modern hustle of Osaka to the tranquil beauty of Japan’s historical treasures.
Goodbye, Japan. Hello, home.
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