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20 Best Day Trips From Osaka (For 2024)

• by Jonny Duncan
• January 1, 2024 March 20, 2024

These are the best day trips from Osaka that I recommend to choose from after having stayed in Osaka for several weeks and exploring many of the areas around it.

Osaka is the second-largest city in Japan and is known as the “nations kitchen” as some of the best Japanese food can be found there.

Although Osaka doesn’t have the big draw of some other parts of Japan, it certainly has plenty of things to see and do in itself and it’s one of the best cities to base yourself in, especially for day-tripping to other places.

This article is to give you some advice from my own experiences of doing day trips from Osaka when there.

Transportation for day trips from Osaka

If you plan on doing lots of day trips from Osaka by train (the best way) and travelling to other areas of Japan further away like Tokyo or Hiroshima then it’s best to save money on train travel with a Japan Rail Pass (get one with that link).

Then with the Japan Rail Pass, you can use the Shinkansen trains where available as they are quicker. If you don’t have the Japan Rail Pass for day trips from Osaka then use the Special Rapid Service trains that are cheaper than the Shinkansen, but take longer.

Another good option is to get a Kansai Thru Pass if you don’t plan to travel further away like to Hiroshima. The pass will allow you unlimited travel on transport and travel to places like Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and also to the international Kansai Airport.

The main Osaka train stations for getting your transport for day trips are Umeda, Namba, Shinsaibashi, Yodoyabashi, and maybe some others depending on where you go.

This is the website for the West Japan Railway Company to check the timetables for the trains.

I’ve done separate posts for some of these trips which I have linked to that give a more in-depth look at the destination.

If you haven’t yet booked accommodation in Osaka you can find and book a hotel in Osaka here .

Best Day Trips From Osaka

This is what I recommend doing for day trips from Osaka. They’re in no particular order as one thing will appeal more to you than maybe another, although Kyoto is number one as that’s what I regard as an essential day trip to do if you are not planning to stay in Kyoto itself at any point.

1. Kyoto Day Trip From Osaka

This is pretty much a no-brainer. If you’re basing yourself in Osaka to explore the region then one of the best day trips from Osaka is to Kyoto.

Kyoto is the ultimate place in Japan to see temples, shrines, traditional Japanese gardens, the geisha district, and so much more. Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan and is a must-visit. Personally, I would recommend staying there a few nights if you can.

There is a Shinkansen train to Kyoto from Osaka that only takes 15 minutes but is 3 times more expensive than the special rapid service which takes 25 minutes and only costs 560 yen.

Of all the day trips from Osaka if there was only one to do then this would be it, especially if you don’t plan to stay in Kyoto at some point during your trip to Japan.

Kyoto tours from Osaka as mentioned are easy to do.

One thing that’s great to do there if you have an interest in old samurai history is to do this tour:

2. Nara Day Trip From Osaka

Nara is an easy local train journey from Osaka and takes around half an hour to reach. It costs an average of 740 yen each way depending on the time of day.

Nara was the old capital of Japan and as such has many temples to see.

It’s the main reason to visit Nara on a day trip. Plan for at least 4 hours to explore the old temple area and its peaceful parks full of friendly roaming deer.

If you’re lucky and in Nara, in mid-December, you can see the Nara Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri Festival which lasts for 4 days and is Japan’s oldest cultural arts festival.

Nara is one of the essential day trips from Osaka for history lovers.

One of the best ways to see the best of Kyoto and Nara if you’re short on time, is to join a day tour:

3. Mount Koya (Koyasan) Day Trip From Osaka

One of the most peaceful and ethereal places I have visited in all of Japan. Located near Mount Koya there’s a large temple complex to visit but the main draw is its graveyard.

The graveyard is home to over 200,000 monks’ graves as well as warlords and important figures.

It really is a serene place to be in and if you stay until it gets dark it gets very eerie.

Koyasan is set up in the mountains and is a one and a half hours train ride away which slowly winds up through the hills. The last train back is at 21.30 at night.

This is one of my favourite day trips from Osaka.

You can read more about the day trip to Koyasan here .

You can do a great full-day tour to Koyasan to save the hassle of going by local transport if you’re short on time:

4. Himeji Castle Day Trip From Osaka

Himeji is mainly known for its castle and for a good reason.

This castle is one of the biggest and best-preserved castles in Japan. The castle grounds are fascinating with a labyrinth of paths and alleys but the castle keep is the best part.

It’s kept in its original state with low ceilings and narrow stairways.

The woodwork is spectacular and extremely well-preserved. Make sure to arrive early in the day as the castle becomes crowded with tourists very quickly.

The castle grounds are also a great spot for watching cherry blossoms.

Himeji Castle is easy to find as it is clearly visible from the station entrance. It will take around one hour and forty-five minutes to reach there by train.

You could squeeze in Himeji Castle in the morning with an afternoon/evening in Kobe (see below) on the way back to Osaka to get both done on the same day. They are not that far from each other.

A shinkansen takes around 35 minutes to get to Himeji and roughly an hour by local train. You can walk to Himeji Castle from the station.

If you like castles then Himeji is an essential one of the day trips from Osaka you should plan to do.

5. Kobe Day Trip From Osaka

Kobe is just 25 minutes by train from Osaka so it serves as an excellent day trip and there are plenty of things to do in Kobe when there.

The city is a nice mix of newly developed areas that were built after the earthquake of 1995 and old districts like Nankinmachi.

Nankinmachi or Chinatown is a collection of small streets and alleys lined with restaurants, food stalls and shops, making it a great place to go shopping. There is a small plaza in the centre where you can find people playing Go.

Head to Meriken Park in the Kobe Port area of the city by the waterfront with open spacious areas and the nearby Harbourland is a massive complex for places to eat and for shopping.

The Kobe Port Tower is good to see in the port area, and the history of Kobe’s maritime connection with the wider world can be found at the Kobe Maritime Museum.

If you are looking for a more quiet and tranquil attraction, Sorakuen Garden is a good choice. This is a typical Japanese garden with several ponds, a boathouse and some nice walking paths.

The garden is located in downtown Kobe but has some beautiful scenic spots which is why you’ll have a good chance of seeing newlyweds having their wedding photos taken there.

If you have any interest in Japanese alcohol then go to the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. Sake is Japanese rice wine and you can enter the museum for free. You can do sake tasting at the shop there as well.

Of course, a visit to Kobe would not be complete without enjoying a good Kobe beef steak or Wagyu as it is locally known. Exceptionally tender and juicy meat.

It’s not cheap though, expect to pay around 50 to 60 euros for an average-sized steak, but it’s worth it if you like a good piece of steak. You’ll find plenty of Wagyu restaurants around Kobe and Sannomiya stations.

The Shinkansen train only takes around 15 minutes to reach Kobe but like Kyoto, you can take the normal special rapid service for less than half the price at 640 yen and only takes 15 minutes longer.

6. Okayama (With Naoshima Below) Day Trip

This is one of the longer day trips from Osaka, so start very early. If you are using the Shinkansen trains then this will help you a lot for this one.

Okayama has some things to do and one of the main reasons for stopping is to see its large Japanese garden, the Korakuen Garden, which is one of the three best landscape gardens in Japan.

Okayama Castle is near the garden and worth a look as well.

But Okayama is the gateway down to Naoshima Island and the two work perfectly together for a combined long day trip from Osaka.

It takes around one hour on a shinkansen to reach Okayama from Osaka costing around 5,500 yen, or two and a half hours by regular train (but almost half the price).

7. Naoshima Island Day Trip From Osaka

This day trip can be done with the Okayama day trip.

Naoshima Island(known as Japan’s art island) is a funky little place covered in random outdoor art sculptures everywhere. The Art House and museum on the east coast is a must-see.

The best way to see it is by bicycle costing 500 yen a day to rent. There are also buses that go around, but a bicycle is way more fun.

You will want to concentrate on the southern part the most and it’s not a huge island.

Allow several hours so you don’t need to rush.

You’ll discover little art cafes scattered around to stop in for a drink as you go. It’s a very relaxed place.

Take the local JR line train from Okayama to Uno Station, you might have to transfer trains on the way (takes around maybe 2 hours).

Then go to the ferry terminal a few minutes walk away. It takes 20 minutes by boat to reach Naoshima. There are 2 ferry terminals on the island, and most people (including myself) arrive at the port on the west side.

This is one of the best day trips from Osaka if you like art and a more remote island experience.

This is my article on Naoshima Island Art .

8. Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Trip From Osaka

Hiroshima and Miyajima Island can be done as one of the day trips from Osaka even though it’s a bit far away as the bullet train will get you there in around one and a half hours.

Hiroshima makes for a more solemn visit as the main reason to go is to see the Peace Memorial Park and the Holocaust Memorial Museum.

But it’s also good to see the new city today and there are also some great food options to try. Make sure to track down a good okonomiyaki place (Hiroshima is famous for it, as well as Osaka). It’s considered Japanese soul food.

Miyajima Island is fun to explore. You can hike to its highest point or take a cable car up there for the views, and there are old temples and shrines to see.

You would need to use the Shinkansen trains for this trip, time-wise. It takes around one and a half hours on the fastest shinkansen each way and you would have to start early.

To get to Miyajima from Hiroshima there is a local train every 15 minutes from the same train station and takes around 30 minutes. Get out on the 9th stop.

From there, there are 2 ferries that leave for the island. One is a JR ferry so take that one if you have a JR pass. The boats run every 15 minutes and take 10 minutes.

This is my post on the day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima.

9. Cycling From Osaka to Nara Day Trip

Believe it or not, this is not only one of my favourite day trips from Osaka but also one of my favourite experiences in Japan.

Cycling in Osaka itself is how I got around in my one month of living there, and it was too tempting not to go cycling from Osaka to Nara.

First of all the going is tough in parts as you will be going along Japan’s steepest highway, but what goes up must come down, and it’s a lot of fun riding down.

On the way, you will pass rural villages, remote shrines, rice paddy fields, and a bamboo grove with mini-shrines with almost no one there at all, unlike the busy one in Kyoto.

It will take you all day and will be a workout in parts but it’s so rewarding, if anything because you get away from the main touristed places.

Be aware though that it is hard work so if you are out of shape, or with young children, then this is probably, actually, I would more likely say definitely, not the best choice for you. 

Take the train from Nara to Osaka at the end of the day. Here’s a post I did about cycling from Osaka to Nara.

10. Kanazawa Day Trip From Osaka

This is one of the longer day trips from Osaka as it’s not close by.

It takes around 3 hours by train from Yodoyabashia station so you would need an early start.

In the Edo Period of Japan Kanazawa was a town as powerful, if not more so than Kyoto and Tokyo and survived World War 2 without being destroyed.

Therefore it has many old buildings to see such as the castle area, the Higashi Chaya District with its teahouses and geisha, and more.

The main attraction though is the Kenrokuen Gardens, known as one of, if not the best Japanese landscape gardens in the country.

11. Kurashiki Day Trip From Osaka

Kurashiki is a popular place for Japanese tourists, who tend to outnumber foreigners. It’s a very chilled place with an old canal that runs through the centre.

This is a great place for some culture as a day trip from Osaka. Old wooden buildings line the streets and it has a great ambience of the Edo Period of Japan.

A Shinkansen train will take around one hour to get there from Osaka.

12. Nagoya Day Trip From Osaka

This is one of the great day trips from Osaka if you’re interested in the more modern technological things in Japan.

You can do a 2-hour tour of Toyota Motor Corporation’s main factory, or take a look at the JR Scmaglev and railway park where the world’s fastest train resides.

If you want the more cultural things then there is Nagoya Castle, and one of the most respected Shinto shrines in Japan. Add to that the open-air Meiji era (1868 – 1912) museum with its outdoor exhibits, and it’s worth your time.

Just be aware that some of those places are not in the centre of Nagoya and would take an extra 20 minutes to an hour or so to get to.

Nagoya is around 1 hour from Osaka by Shinkansen and costs around 6500 yen. Or take the local JR trains for around 4000 but taking around 2 and a half hours.

Skip this day trip for others though if you want more Japanese culture in your day trips such as Nara, and Koyasan as at the end of the day Nagoya is a modern city.

13. Universal Studios Japan Day Trip From Osaka

I wasn’t sure whether to add Universal Studios Japan onto the list simply due to it not being a uniquely Japanese experience, but it’s nearby Osaka and is very popular and recommended by other travellers, and if travelling with children makes a good choice as one of the day trips from Osaka to consider.

There are some Japanese-orientated things there though especially some involving Japanese animation .

Universal Studios Japan opening hours are usually around 8.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. until 7 – 9 p.m. It depends sometimes if there are special holidays.

You can take a direct train from Osaka station which takes around 10-15 minutes to get there.

14. Miyama Village and Amanohashidate Day Trip From Osaka

Miyama Village is just north of Kyoto and is the quintessential rural village experience of Japan.

Nestled in the mountains it has a very chilled-out atmosphere and is the perfect escape from the cities.

the main reason for visiting is to see the rural life of Japan. There is a folk museum worth visiting as well.

Add on an onward trip to  Amanohashidate which is known as ‘one of Japan’s 3 scenic views’ where a sandbar covered in pine trees spans across the bay where you can also take boats out to see it from the sea.

There are some temples and shrines scattered around as well.

You can do this trip with public transport if you leave early otherwise a highly recommended tour to take is this one:

15. Kumano Kodo Day Trip From Osaka (To Nachi Taisha Shrine)

The Kumano Kodo is a bunch of hiking trails that are old pilgrimage routes still used today.

You can see some of the ’Three Grand Shrines of Kumano in the area if you have more time, but realistically the Kumano Kodo should be done for multiple days to experience the area properly.

Having said that to get a feel for the peaceful and serene place you can visit one of the Three Grand Shrines, the Nachi Taisha Shrine, on a day trip.

It’s one of the best shrines to photograph in all of Japan and has a waterfall nearby.

16. Lake Biwa Day Trip From Osaka

Ok, a lake doesn’t sound super exciting compared with some of the other day trips from Osaka on the list, but this is Japan’s largest freshwater lake.

It will take you around 40-50 minutes on a fast Shinkansen train.

At Chikubushima Island in the north of the lake, you can see old shrines and temples dating back over millennia which can be reached by a local ferry.

You can get active and cycle around the lake itself or take it easy on a boat, or one of the beaches.

There’s also a 17th-century castle to see called Hikone Castle.

This day trip from Osaka is a good option if you feel like having a relaxing day on the lake with some history thrown in.

17. Wakayama City Day Trip From Osaka

Wakayama City is an easy day trip from Osaka as they’re not that far away.

In Wakayama City, you can see Wakayama Castle and see lots of temples and shrines when walking through Oda Park. There are lots of Onsens in the city itself that you can relax in after walking around.

You can even stop over in Wakayama City going to or coming back from, the Kumano Kodo day trip. Although to save rushing around it’s best to do those as separate day trips from Osaka.

18.Tottori Day Trip From Osaka

This is a slightly different vibe for the day trips from Osaka to choose from. This trip is all about nature. Specifically large dunes by the sea that can reach up to 50 metres in height.

Located on the Sea of Japan coast they are impressive to see and there’s even a Sand Museum filled with sand sculptures.

You can also try sandboarding on the dunes as well and for the more adventurous there are even paragliding options.

Choose this option for a nature hit, but don’t expect much in the way of ‘traditional Japan.’

It takes around 2 and a half hours to get there by train from Osaka Station.

Save time and take a full-day tour there:

19. Awaji Island Day Trip From Osaka

Awaji Island is home to the largest suspension bridge in the world, over 4km long, that connects Kobe and Awaji which is worth seeing in itself, but there is much more than that.

Sumoto City is the biggest city there and you can see Sumoto Castle and other historical sites, so it’s not just about the suspension bridge.

Given its location not so far from Osaka, it makes for another one for the good day trips from Osaka to consider.

I won’t say one of the ‘best day trips from Osaka’ for this post as I would choose some of the others over this first. But it’s a good option if you have more time and this is your kind of thing.

You can’t reach it by train so you will have to take a bus from Kobe, or if you have your own car drive there.

20. Iga Day Trip From Osaka

Iga is one of the last fun ones for day trips from Osaka that you can do and is especially great for those with an interest in martial arts and history.

Iga is a small town but was well known during the old days in Japan as the best place for Ninja training at the Iga School of Ninjutsu.

These days you can visit the museum that’s all about Ninjas and see live performance reenactments of Ninja techniques that include throwing the famous shuriken ninja stars.

Iga can be reached by train in 2 hours.

So that’s just a glimpse into some of the things to do on day trips from Osaka.

There are many other places to see but I would recommend those for longer than just a day trip. The ones mentioned here are generally the best and most popular day trips from Osaka.

As I mentioned at the beginning of the article if you haven’t yet booked accommodation you can find and book a hotel in Osaka here .

Get a Japan Rail Pass here for travelling in Japan by train (the best way). Also if coming from Tokyo to Osaka for example and back again, or continuing onwards to Hiroshima, then the Japan Rail Pass will help.

Get a Kansai Thru Pass if you don’t plan to travel further away like to Hiroshima. The pass will allow you unlimited travel on transport and travel to places like Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and also to the international Kansai Airport.

While in Osaka take a look at what I recommend for the best things to do in Osaka .

And the best things to see on an Osaka Amazing Pass .

Check out some cool tours to do in Osaka itself:

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip.

Pick up the Lonely Planet Pocket Kyoto & Osaka (Travel Guide)

A friend Patrick, who is a regular visitor to Japan and an expert on the country, contributed the Kobe and Himeji sections as recommendations for the day trips from Osaka.

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Wow beautiful destination. Now I know where are those famous orange brackets (!) 😉

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These day trips can be perfect for those who are planning to visit Osaka Japan. However i loved some of the places and would love to visit myself whenever i plan for Osaka such as- Nooshima, Nagoya, Nara and Universal Studio Japan.

With limited time, you’ll want to come armed with a good Mount Fuji day trip itinerary. Below I will detail five awesome and totally different Mt. Fuji day trip ideas, because different people have different ways to travel, right? If you most important concern is seeing Japan s most iconic mountain from the best spots, check out my article on the 10 best Mount Fuji viewpoints !

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• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

10 Unforgettable Day Trips from Osaka

From historical castles to ninja towns, with islands and whirlpools in between, here are some of our favorite day trips from Osaka. Afterall, if you’re based in Osaka, exploring Kansai couldn’t be easier.

The Kansai region has a whole host of fantastic day trip destinations to choose from. Whether you want to visit an onsen town for a relaxing soak, climb a sacred mountain or land yourself on a not-so-deserted island — whatever tickles your fancy! These are our top picks for easy day trips from Osaka.

1. Kobe: For world famous beef and local sake

Join this private and customizable day tour to make the most of your time in Kobe.

Often bypassed in favor of Kyoto or Osaka, for those with limited time, Kobe is a fantastic city and perfect for a day trip.

As one of Japan’s most important port cities, there is a real mix of cultures, with one of the largest Chinatowns in the Kansai region . Dating back to 1868, the area has grown and was named Nankimichi after the city Nanjing. This is a great place to grab lunch, be it street food like steamed buns or the traditional cut-price lunch set.

The city of Kobe was heavily damaged in the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and over 5,000 people died. Today the city has been rebuilt, but you can visit the dedicated museum to learn more about it.

While it may not quite be in your budget, for dedicated foodies this is of course a great opportunity to try the world-famous Kobe beef, or head to the Nada District for some locally brewed sake.

Sorakuen Garden is perfect for a peaceful stroll and the culture vultures can head to the Hyogo Museum of Art for a mixture of modern works by Japanese and international artists, all housed in the creation of Skytree-designer Ando Tadao.

Locals and visitors will agree, however, that Kobe comes into its own at night, with spectacular night views counted as some of the best in Japan. View the city from the Shin-Kobe Ropeway (which also passes the Nunobiki Waterfall) where you can hike from the top station to Mount Maya, which has 10-million dollar views of Kobe and Osaka.

Getting there

25 minutes ¥ 410

Simply hop onto either the JR Kobe Line or the JR Rapid Service for Himeji and you’ll be in Kobe within 30 minutes!

2. Awaji Island: For the world’s longest suspension bridge

This small island is perched between Honshu and Shikoku and is attached to Akashi City by the world’s longest suspension bridge: the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. As a sightseeing spot in itself, with its own exhibition center, the bridge also helps with accessing the island. Although, a ferry is easier if relying on public transport.

Sumoto is the main city and has plenty for a day’s worth of sightseeing, including natural hot springs and Sumoto Castle, which was destroyed in the early 17th century but rebuilt just after the Edo period in 1928. You can also explore the Awaji Yumebutai, which is a mixture of gardens, walking trails and the largest greenhouse in Japan, all built on the excavation sites for the Kansai International Airport .

If you head down south to the town of Fukura, you can catch a ferry to see the (sorta-famous) Naruto whirlpools and Naruto Bridge. You can pair this with a trip to the Awaji Joruri Puppet Theater, which displays the island’s tradition of ningyo joruri puppet theater (note it is closed on Wednesdays).

1 hour ¥ 1,500

Take a train from Osaka to Akashi (40 minutes, ¥ 940 ). Then catch a ferry from Akashi Port, which is a few minutes’ walk from JR Akashi Station. It takes 13 minutes to cross and costs adults ¥ 530 each way, plus a ¥ 240 charge if you take your bike or small animals. The ferries are very regular, especially around commuter times but still pretty decent on weekends, continuing until around 11 pm; you can check the timetable here .

3. Arima Onsen Town: For relaxation

Although technically in Kobe, this picturesque onsen town is on the opposite side of Mount Rokko from the city center, and is well worth a trip . Although Arima has become a bit of a concrete town (the fate of many an onsen town in Japan), you can still enjoy a town-like feel with some narrow shopping streets remaining.

As one of the oldest hot spring resorts in Japan, Arima is a popular spot due to its ‘gold’ and ‘silver’ water—the former offering iron deposits to aid muscle pain and the latter offering carbonate, which is good for joint ailments. There are picturesque onsen sources dotted throughout the town with steam shooting from them, as well as two public bath houses with prices starting from ¥ 550 to ¥ 850 per person. The many hotels and private onsen houses also allow day visitors and are generally fancier, although the costs are also a bit higher reaching into the thousands-of-yen range for improved soaking facilities and better views. There are also plenty of shrines and temples to see in the town and pleasant strolls so you can cool off between soaks.

70 minutes ¥ 1,250 +

The train is a little tricky from Osaka: It takes three trains to reach Arima Onsen (changing at Sannomiya and Tanigami) at a cost of ¥ 1,000 for the 70-minute journey.

Alternatively, you can catch one of the direct buses run by JR and Hankyu which cost between ¥ 1,250 and ¥ 1,400 depending on whether you leave from Shin-Osaka or Osaka respectively.

4. Wakayama City: For fresh fish and train station cats

Learn all about the history and culture of Wakayama when you join this private walking tour

Wakayama is usually a stop-off for people on the way to hike the Kumano Kodo or view Nachi Falls , but the city deserves a day of exploration in its own right. If you begin in the heart of the city, head to see the castle tower before strolling through Oda Park, which has plenty of temples and shrines to explore during your strolls.

For an early lunch and some unusual entertainment, don’t miss the tuna filleting displays that take place three times a day (11 am, 12:30 pm and 3 pm) at Kuroshio Market. You can try out the freshest of fish at the indoor restaurants or purchase something to take home if the tuna is looking too delicious to leave behind.

The town is famed for onsen, and there are plenty of bathhouses to try dotted around city, mainly based in hotels. If you want to head out of town for the afternoon, you can choose one of the onsen towns a short train ride away. Some of the top options include the baths at the national park in Kada. Just catch the train from Wakayamashi Station to Kada (25 minutes) and hop on a free shuttle bus to enjoy onsen with views to die for.

Alternatively, you could catch a train to Kishi to meet the world-famous train station cat Nitama (replacement of the much-loved Tama the cat who served until 2015). The journey takes 35 minutes from Wakayama Station and has some lovely views on the way.

50 minutes ¥ 900

Catch the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service for Wakayama, change trains at Hineno Station, and continue to Wakayama Station. The journey takes 50 minutes and costs ¥ 900 .

5. Tokushima City: For the Awa-dori Festival

Best known for its amazing Awa-dori Festival in the summer, Tokushima is a busy city on the edge of Shikoku . It’s also home to the first temple of the 88 Sacred Temple complex: Ryozenji Temple. You can visit the temple by catching a train to Bando Station (30 minutes on the Kotoku line). Note that trains only run around once an hour, so keep that in mind for returning.

If you aren’t in town for the impressive Awa-dori Festival, be sure to head to the Awa Odori Kaikan building where you can see daily dance performances, ancient posters, uniforms, and even machines that let you try the footwork yourself. From the 5th floor you can catch the ropeway to Mount Bizan for views across the city and over the Seto Inland Sea.

Back down in the city you can explore the castle grounds, and although not much is left of the castle aside from walls and a moat, there is plenty to see. The Tokushima Castle Museum ( ¥ 300 admission) has some heirlooms, samurai armor, and the only surviving example of a feudal lord’s boat. Right next door is the Omote-Goten Garden, which includes a dry garden as well as pond garden. It is the perfect place for some relaxing reflection. As with the castle park and ruins, the garden is free — and it’s especially popular during cherry blossom season.

150 minutes ¥ 3,600

The simplest way to reach Tokushima is on one of the JR buses from either Osaka Station, Osaka Namba or USJ which go directly to Tokushima for ¥ 3,600 each way. The journey takes about 2 hour and 40 minutes and they run roughly every hour from 6 am.

From Tokushima, the buses run every every half hour from 3:15 pm until the last one at 7:45 pm (so don’t miss it!). You can check the times here .

6. Takeda Castle Ruins: For, well, castle ruins

An unusual and very outdoorsy option for your day trip is a hike into the mystical remains of Takeda Castle . Often wrapped in mist and known as the “castle in the sky”, Takeda is a pretty magical spot, but you have to work for it.

Originally built in 1411, it was abandoned during the battle of Sekigahara in 1600 and eventually fell into disrepair before being opened to tourists after restoration in the 1980s. While there are no buildings remaining, you can see the layout of the fortress and surrounding wings thanks to foundations. If you stay overnight nearby, the best time to view the castle is at sunrise in October or November, as this is when the famous mist appears. If you head to the Ritsuunkyo viewpoint on the slopes of the mountain opposite the castle, there are viewpoints just over half an hour up the trail which lead from the car park.

On a regular day, there are two steep trails from the back of the train station that will take you up to the castle in a pretty intense 40 minutes of trekking. From March to November, you can catch a bus that will take you to a point 20 minutes from the castle, so have a glance at the times when you arrive to see which suits you better! To reach the Ritsuunkyo viewpoint without a car, it is a 45-minute hike from the town or a 10-minute taxi journey.

3 hours ¥ 2,640

From Osaka Station, catch the JR Special Rapid Service for Himeji, then jump on the Bantan Line for Teramae where you’ll change to the Bantan Line for Wadayama and get off at Takeda Station.

7. Iga: The home of the ninja 

A small town with two big claims to fame, Iga is a fun day trip for those fresh to Japan and old hands too. The most obvious selling factor is of course the ninjas, from sneaky figures perched on train luggage racks to a fully dedicated museum and performing troupe.

The Iga School of Ninjutsu was one of the country’s leading schools in the feudal ages and produced many high-quality warriors. The city has since kept a firm grip on its history. The museum has a selection of tools, weapons and costumes used by ninjas of the past as well as a very entertaining session in a ninja house with demonstrations of revolving walls and trap doors used long ago. At the end you can see the ninja performance, which is an entertaining show of shuriken  (ninja stars) and sword fights with some comedic falls thrown in for good measure.

In town, you can visit a ninja café with resident cats (ninjas would use the dilation of their feline friends’ eyes to tell the time) to sample the black sesame ice cream and even try shuriken yourself.

The second claim to fame is that Iga is the birthplace of famed haiku poet Matsuo Basho—there is a small museum dedicated to him in the grounds of Ueno Castle as well as a hat-shaped memorial called Haseiden Hall, which was built to commemorate the 300th year since his birth.

110 minutes ¥ 1,520

Catch the Yamatoji Rapid Service from Osaka to Kamo, and then switch to the Kansai Line for Iga Ueno Station. This should take just under 2 hours and provide some pretty stunning views.

8. Himeji: For the really famous castle

Make the most of your time by joining this private half-day tour . A government-licensed guide will customize the itinerary to suit your interests, so you won’t waste time doing things that don’t appeal t you.

Painfully popular during cherry blossom season and only a little less so during the rest of the year, Himeji Castle is a must-see if you’re in the Kansai area. Considered to be the country’s most impressive castle, it is also called the White Heron Castle and is known for its complex grounds and elegant appearance.

The castle avoided damage during fires, wars and earthquakes and is one of Japan’s 12 original castles, although it underwent significant restoration before re-opening in 2015. There are over 80 buildings spread across the grounds, and the area is free to explore up to the Sannomaru (third bailey).

Entry to the castle will set you back ¥ 1,000 . If you would also like to visit the nearby Kokoen gardens you can get a combination ticket for ¥ 1,040 — so probably best even if you’re not sure you’ll visit both.

The walled paths and twisting routes up to the castle are really unusual and add to the sense of occasion, along with steep staircases as you approach the castle itself. The inside is mainly empty and has some displays and a shrine, but it’s best for the views across the countryside surrounding it.

65 minutes ¥ 1,520

Again, this is a pretty easy journey as you simply hop on the JR Special Rapid Service for Himeji and settle in for the hour-long journey. This would be covered on the JR Pass if you’re lucky enough to have one, otherwise it will set you back ¥ 1,520 each way.

9. Mount Koya: For a spiritual escape

Get local insights on Mt. Koya by joining this private tour .

Spiritual, stunning, and energizing, an afternoon spent exploring Mount Koya is a treat for the soul that you won’t forget any time soon. As the resting place of Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, it is one of the holiest sites in all of Japan and certainly demands a certain level of respect when visited. You can follow the path through the Okunoin Cemetery where he is buried to visit Torodo Hall, which is filled with over 1,000 lanterns. Kongobuji, the main temple of Shingon Buddhism is located a little farther on and is home to beautifully painted doors and Japan’s largest rock garden — well worth the ¥ 500 entry fee.

As our full article points out, this is not a leisurely day trip — it takes around 2 hours from Osaka. That means you will have to keep up the pace, or consider making it an overnight temple stay if you want to relax a little. That’s not to say it can’t be done in a day though. Just make sure you keep an eye on the time as train service going back stops a little earlier than you may be used to. Double check return times before you leave the station for the day.

2 hours ¥ 3,400

This journey is fairly simple. Take a rapid train from Osaka Namba to Gokurakubashi Station with a change at Hashimoto Station. The journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs ¥ 1,410 one way.

You may want to consider purchasing the Koyasan World Heritage ticket, which costs ¥ 3,400 and includes your return train travel as well as unlimited use of buses around Mount Koya and discounts to entry fees for attractions.

10. Kinosaki Onsen

Kinosaki Onsen town is one of the most magical spots in Japan, with too many hot springs to choose from and a quaint traditional setting. Unlike most onsen towns, which are filled with concrete eyesores as soon as they become popular, this place has a Venetian-vibe with narrow twisting streets and impossibly photogenic bridges. The 3-hour travel time might make this look like more of a weekend getaway option, but it could be done as a day trip if you arrive at 10:47 am and head home on the final bus at 5:40 pm.

The town center has a steady flow of yukata-clad visitors enjoying locals treats and onsen-hopping between the public baths. Ryokan (traditional inns) encourage guests to explore the town rather than stay at the restaurants at their own establishments. They even provide free entry to the public baths as an incentive. There are literary monuments and a ropeway to the mountain summit for panoramic views. The ropeway is close to Onsenji Temple, with a stop-off point at the main hall farther up the mountain. Traditionally, guests would pray at the temple before being admitted to bathe in the town.

The onsen are famed for being the healing place of injured storks, so you can bath in public or ryokan baths to your heart’s content and even visit a stork sanctuary just outside the town. There are a total of seven public baths and countless ryokan—plenty of choice for your soaks!

3 hours ¥ 3,700

Traveling by train requires a minimum of three transfers, which may seem a lot of hassle since it only saves you about ¥ 350 compared to the bus option. You can catch a highway bus from Osaka Hankyu-Umeda to Kinosaki Onsen .

This post was originally publishe in March 2018. Last updated: July 29, 2021. Information is subject to change.

• Day trips from osaka

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Osaka (���, Ōsaka) is Japan's second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo . It has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai Region for many centuries. Osaka was formerly known as Naniwa. Before the Nara Period , when the capital used to be moved with the reign of each new emperor , Naniwa was once Japan's capital city, the first one ever known.

In the 16th century, Toyotomi Hideyoshi chose Osaka as the location for his castle , and the city may have become Japan's political capital if Tokugawa Ieyasu had not terminated the Toyotomi lineage after Hideyoshi's death and established his government in distant Edo (Tokyo) .

Top attractions in Osaka

Universal Studios ••

Minami (Namba)

Osaka Aquarium •

Tenjin Matsuri •

Osaka Castle •

Sumiyoshi Taisha •

Museum of History •

Shinsekai •

Shitennoji Temple •

Abeno Harukas •

Kita (Umeda)

Osaka Station City •

Bunraku Theater

National Art Museum

Kuromon Market

Umeda Sky Building

Osaka Expo 70 Park

Science Museum

Grand Front Osaka

Asahi Suita Brewery

Kyoto •••

Mount Koya •••

Nara •••

Kinosaki ••

Himeji ••

Kobe •

Osaka by interest.

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

• Nostalgic Shinsekai
• Shopping arcades and food markets
• Bustling Dotonbori

• Outstanding museums
• Osaka Castle and its extensive grounds
• Ancient temples and shrines

• Famous Osaka Castle
• Japan's tallest skyscraper Abeno Harukas
• Namba entertainment district

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Osaka tourist guide, hotels around osaka, osaka hotel guide.

How to choose the best places to stay in Osaka

Experiences around Osaka

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Osaka

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Osaka, one of Japan's largest cities , lies on the south coast of western Honshu at the point where the River Yodo flows into the wide sweep of Osaka Bay, which opens out into the Pacific. Its location on the Yodo Delta with its network of watercourses and canals spanned by more than a thousand bridges has, deservedly, earned Osaka the nickname of the "Venice of the East."

While the origins of Osaka date back to the early days of the Japanese Empire, today it is undoubtedly one of the most modern cities in Japan, boasting a futuristic skyline along with countless impressive examples of modern architecture. Its world-class status is cemented by its many cultural institutions. These include its many superb museums and art galleries, as well as its ultra-modern entertainment, theater, and music venues, which together add up to an endless list of unique things to do.

When planning your Osaka travel itinerary (as well as considering where to stay), bear in mind that the city in fact has two significant city centers. If being close to the top dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences is an important factor, you'll want to spend time in the Minami, or "South" district. Kita, the "North" district, is the traditional business center of Osaka, and is certainly worth considering. Here, you'll find no end of shopping, dining, entertainment, and accommodation available.

Whichever you choose (but be sure to at least visit both), you'll find an excellent transportation system as you go about your sightseeing and explore the best places to visit in the city. If possible, consider traveling to this popular destination in the quieter seasons, such as winter. You'll avoid the crowds at the most popular attractions, and you'll get the chance to experience unique sights, such as seeing Osaka Castle shrouded in snow and lit up at night.

Whatever season you visit, plan your sightseeing with our list of the top tourist attractions in Osaka.

See also: Where to Stay in Osaka

1. Osaka Castle

2. shitennō-ji temple, 3. osaka aquarium kaiyukan, 4. the tempozan ferris wheel and harbor village, 5. the kobe port tower, 6. tsūtenkaku tower, 7. the national museum of art, 8. osaka tennōji zoo & park, 9. osaka science museum, 10. the umeda sky building, 11. universal studios japan, 12. tenmangu shrine and the tenjin festival, where to stay in osaka for sightseeing, tips & tours: how to make the most of your visit to osaka, map of tourist attractions in osaka, osaka, japan - climate chart.

Highlights : Originally a 16th-century castle, known today for its five-story tower, museum, and city views

Osaka Castle (Ōsaka-jō) was completed in 1586 and took just three years to build. Ordered built by famed Japanese warrior and politician Toyotomi Hideyoshi it was, at the time, the largest castle in Japan.

Almost all Hideyoshi's military commanders were required to contribute stones for its construction, the largest being the Higo-ishi stone, near the south entrance. Standing nearly six meters high and 14.5 meters long, it was contributed to by the celebrated General Kato Kiyomasa from the island of Shodo.

After Hideyoshi's defeat in 1615, the castle was destroyed, only to be rebuilt by the Tokugawa shoguns for reasons of prestige. Again destroyed after the fall of the Shogunate, the castle was reconstructed in its present form in 1931.

Highlights include the five-story, 42-meter-tall main tower containing a great museum with exhibits related to the history of the castle and the city (it also offers superb views over Osaka from its upper floors). Also of interest in Osaka Castle Park is the Hokoku Shrine dedicated to Hideyoshi and his family.

This popular site can get busy, especially in the summer months, so be sure to take advantage of the "e-ticket" option available through its official website (see below).

Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0002

Highlights : Japan's first Buddhist temple shows off a five-story pagoda, beautiful statues and paintings, and the famous Golden Pavilion.

Shitennō-ji is Osaka's best-known temple and can trace its roots back to 59 CE. It was also Japan's first Buddhist temple. Although rebuilt numerous times through the centuries (the most recent reconstruction took place in the 1960s), this lovely temple remains the oldest such religious site to be officially administered.

Highlights of a tour include the site's five-story pagoda, along with a number of other exquisitely decorated buildings. The best of these are the Golden Pavilion (Kondō) with its fine statues and paintings, the Lecture Hall (Kōdō), and a lovely covered corridor linking three of the site's gates.

Other buildings of note in the complex include the teaching area, a pharmacy, and a hospital. Be sure to also spend time exploring the site's pleasant garden.

Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 543-0051

Highlights : One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring 27 tanks that spotlight marine habitats from around the planet

Looking a little as if it might be made of giant Lego blocks, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is well worth exploring. One of the world's biggest such attractions, this walk-through aquarium takes guests on a fascinating tour of a number of marine habitats. These include the Pacific Ocean and Antarctica, along with the Great Barrier Reef and Monterey Bay.

A variety of Japanese marine life is also featured, including freshwater species, as well as native reptiles and mammals. All told, the site boasts 27 tanks, the biggest being nine meters deep and capable of easily accommodating large marine life including manta rays and sharks.

For a truly memorable experience, consider a visit at night, when the tanks are lit up to dazzling effect. Be sure to also check the feeding times before your visit (these are listed on the aquarium's official website below).

Address: Chome 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 552-0022

Highlight : One of the largest Ferris wheels in Asia, a ride takes a staggering 17 minutes to complete

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel provides some of the best views over Osaka, particularly of the port area and the Tempozan Harbor Village where it's located. This massive Ferris wheel is one of the largest such attractions in Asia , standing more than 112 meters tall and with a diameter spanning 100 meters.

In operation since 1997, this popular attraction offers a thrilling 17-minute journey that is especially enjoyable at night when the wheel is lit up in a variety of different colors dictated by the weather (orange when sunny weather is forecast, green for clouds, and blue for rain). Thrill seekers can opt for one of the special "see-through-bottom" cars for an incredible all-round view of Osaka Bay.

Afterward, be sure to visit other Harbor Village attractions. The best of these are the Cruise Ship Santa Maria, the Legoland Discovery Center, and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

Address: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 552-0022

Highlights : An observation deck overlooks the city skyline, while a rotating restaurant has 360-degree views

Osaka boasts not just one but two tall towers that have become synonymous with the city. The newest of these, Kobe Port Tower , is located on the outskirts of the city near the main harbor. Despite being a little farther away from the city center, it's certainly a must-visit attraction that draws crowds of tourists.

Opened in 1963 and constructed from red steel, this earthquake-proof structure stands 108 meters tall and has retained a look of modernity. The highlight of a visit is spending time on the observation deck, affording great views over the city and the Kobe Port area.

Better still, if you're feeling hungry, consider booking a meal at the rotating restaurant, which enjoys the same spectacular views (it's an especially fun experience at night).

Address: 5-5 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042

Highlight : A fifth-floor observation deck has beautiful views of the city.

The oldest of Osaka's two towers, Tsūtenkaku, is located in the city center and is one of the city's best-known landmarks. It was in fact built on the site of a replica of the Eiffel Tower that was constructed in 1912 and destroyed in WWII.

The current structure, completed in 1956, still offers some of the best views over Osaka. The best of these views can be enjoyed from the observation level on its fifth floor, where you'll also find a shrine of the God of Happiness. If visiting at nightfall, the tower is lit up with a dizzying display of neon lights.

Address: Chome-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002

Highlight : An important art museum that houses works from both Japanese and international artists.

The National Museum of Art, Osaka (NMAO), is a unique underground art museum located just a few minutes from the city center on Nakanoshima, a small island between the Tosabori and Dōjima rivers. Opened in 1977, this important gallery contains a large collection from some of the leading international artists of the post-war period, including examples by Picasso and Cézanne and Japanese artists Kuniyoshi and Foujita.

It's also home to many important relics and statues. Even if art isn't your thing, it's worth visiting for the spectacular steel structure outside the museum, a massive installation designed to look like reeds bending under a breeze.

Also worth a visit is the Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Art . This fine gallery is home to a collection of ancient Chinese calligraphy and artwork by Japan's most revered artists.

Address: 4 Chome-2-55 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005

Highlights : A top spot in the city for cherry blossom viewing, as well as home to Osaka's zoo.

Osaka's largest green space, Tennōji Park (Tennōji Kōen), serves as a place of respite from this otherwise busy city. Noted for its many fragrant flower beds and, in spring, its cherry blossoms, the park is a delight to explore thanks also to its many fun sculptures, ponds, and bridges.

It's also home to some of the city's most important tourist attractions, including the Osaka Tennōji Zoo . Opened in 1915, the zoo features a variety of species, including lions, giraffes, and elephants, all housed in such a way that they seem to be roaming the African savannah.

Also worth a visit is the hippo pool and reptile house. Hot Tip: Try to time your visit for the free tours of the park's greenhouses and other areas not usually open to the public.

Address: 1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka

Highlight : Home to the first planetarium to open in Japan

Looking not unlike the bridge of a large ship - a fact that could be credited to its waterside setting - the Osaka Science Museum (Ōsaka Shiritsu Kagakukan) is a delightful outing for those traveling with kids.

Opened in 1989 above the National Museum of Art , the museum contains numerous hands-on and interactive exhibits based on a number of science-related themes covering everything from astronomy to energy sources. It also boasts the country's first planetarium.

Also worth a visit is the Osaka International Peace Center (Ōsaka-kokusai-heiwa-sentaa), a museum dedicated, as the name suggests, to matters of peace. Highlights include sobering displays relating to the destruction of war, as well as a replica of the famous Doomsday Clock.

Address: 4 Chome-2-1 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005

Highlight : A rooftop observatory and garden with impressive views over Osaka

In addition to the stunning architectural designs associated with its museums and art galleries, Osaka boasts many other fine examples of modern architecture. Perhaps the best known is the aptly named Umeda Sky Building (Umeda Sukai Biru), a stunning landmark consisting of two office towers joined at the top by a large platform-like structure.

It's this rooftop structure that draws visitors, due largely to the network of bridges and an escalator, which join the two towers, providing plunging views of 170-plus meters that send shivers down the spines of those sensitive to heights. The views from the rooftop observatory and garden - aptly named the Floating Garden Observatory - are simply stunning.

Afterward, be sure to wander the urban garden at its base with its pleasant paths, fountains, and ponds. There's also a fun underground market designed to resemble early-20th-century Osaka.

Address: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023

Highlights : Themed roller coasters, attractions, and rides including its own The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

One of the city's newest attractions, and quickly becoming one of the top things to do in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is also one of the city's busiest sites, attracting around 10 million visitors each year. One of five Universal theme parks worldwide, the Osaka location offers a number of well-known pop-culture franchises, along with a few unique to the location.

Recent additions include Hollywood Dream: The Ride , a fun roller coaster that actually travels backward at times; rides based on the Spiderman movies; and Universal Wonderland , a family-friendly area perfect for those traveling with younger kids. Uniquely Japanese-themed entertainment and characters are found in rides based on games and TV shows in the Universal Cool Japan area, including Monster Hunter and the One Piece Premier Show .

Also of interest to fans of both the books and movies is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , based on the popular rides in Universal's Island of Adventure in Orlando, Florida. To avoid line-ups, be sure to look into the handy Universal Express Pass.

Address: 1-33 Sakurajima, Osaka Prefecture 554-0031

Highlights : A festival with more than 1,000 years of history featuring parades and a fireworks display

Osaka also happens to be the host city of one of Japan's largest annual festivals. The Tenjin Festival (Tenjin Matsuri) has been held here for more than 1,000 years on the same date, July 24 and 25. It features colorful processions held both on land and on water and culminates with a spectacular fireworks display.

Much of the fun takes place around the Tenmangu Shrine , which celebrates the god of scholarship, and provides tourists a chance to experience local customs, see many traditional costumes, and enjoy the city's wonderful hospitality. It's also a chance to get in some souvenir shopping, as well as sampling great food from the many vendors who set their stalls for the occasion.

Address: 2 Chome-1-8 Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0041

The best place to stay in Osaka is in the densely packed downtown area, close to restaurants, shops, and many of the main attractions. The famous Osaka Castle is on the western edge of downtown, and the Shitennō-ji temple is to the south. Closer to the water, you'll find the world-famous Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Harbour Village. Below are some highly-rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Intercontinental Hotel Osaka offers oversized rooms in a prime location in the center of all the action. The hotel is an easy 10-minute walk from the central train station.
• In the tallest building in Japan is the new Marriott Miyako Hotel . Occupying floors 38-57, the hotel features rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and views out over the city and surrounding plains.
• On Midosuji Avenue, one of Osaka's most prestigious streets lined with exclusive shops, The St. Regis Osaka offers luxuriously appointed rooms and is just minutes from Osaka Castle.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Ideal for families and near Universal Studios is the Hotel Universal Port . A ferry departs from behind the hotel and goes to Tempozan Village, where the Ferris wheel is located.
• Set midway between the Osaka Castle and the Tennoji Zoo is the Daiwa Roynet Hotel Osaka Kitahama . Standard rooms are comfortably outfitted, and a subway stop is underneath the hotel.
• The Mitsui Garden Hotel offers spacious rooms in a quiet neighborhood, within walking distance of both Osaka Science Museum and the National Art Museum.

Budget Hotels:

• Located in the Namba area, not far from the zoo, is the Business Hotel Mikado . This budget hotel has basic Japanese-style rooms with shared bathrooms and showers. Free bicycles are available for guests.
• Offering good value and oversized rooms is the well-located Hotel Kinki. The hotel name refers to the area of the city, and the central train station is a short walk away.
• Backstreet Osaka Tour : Explore Osaka like a local with this Deep Backstreet Osaka walking tour. The tour takes visitors through the city's historic streets and back alleys to off-the-radar spots often missed by most tourists.
• Shoulder Season in Osaka : If traveling outside of the busy peak summer season, you'll be rewarded with many unique experiences and sights in Osaka. In winter, the city comes alive with wonderful displays of colorful illuminations and lights. A good time to visit is from November to January, during the Festival of Lights and when beautiful Osaka Castle is lit up for Christmas. Spring is also popular, as the city's parks and gardens burst into life.
• Day Trips : Osaka is perfectly positioned for adventurous travelers to enjoy a variety of fun day trips. A popular option is the Hiroshima and Miyajima Full-Day Sightseeing Tour , which takes in two of Hiroshima's top attractions: Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Benefits include the services of an English-speaking guide, deluxe coaches, and admissions.

Osaka enjoys lovely weather year-round, but the best times to go to Osaka are in the spring and fall seasons. Spring in Osaka is in March, April, and May, while fall is in October and November.

The average temperature in Osaka in March is a high of 14 degrees Celsius. It's a beautiful time to visit because this is the time of year when the plum blossoms and cherry blossoms start to open up.

The weather warms up in April to about 20 degrees Celsius. Usually, it's the first two weeks of April that are the busiest in Osaka because it is peak cherry blossom season. You'll find the streets and attractions are most crowded, but the weather is at its best.

May's average high in Osaka is 25 degrees Celsius. Usually, the crowds have thinned and the city is carpeted in greenery.

Osaka's weather in October is still quite warm, with an average high of 23 degrees. Expect sunny days and cooler evenings. Towards the end of October, the leaves start to change color, which ushers in November and peak leaf-peeping season.

November is comfortable in Osaka, as well, with an average high of 18 degrees Celsius. The leaves are at their most explosive and colorful in the middle of the month. You'll also find that November can be particularly crowded with travelers coming to watch the leaves change.

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Places to Visit near Osaka : As well as the fun day trips already mentioned, Osaka is a great jumping-off point to explore a variety of other surrounding attractions and points of interest. Easy-to-access destinations by rail include Kyoto and Hiroshima , each just a couple of hours away by Bullet Train.

Explore Japan's Rich History : A great vacation destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Japan's rich cultural traditions is Fukuoka . In addition to its magnificent castle and many fine shrines and temples, the city offers immersive experiences, including origami and calligraphy. Similar experiences and other historical attractions can of course be enjoyed in other historic cities such as Nara and Sapporo .

Japan Vacation Ideas : Japan offers no end of jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery. No trip should therefore skip the iconic Mount Fuji , easily accessible from Tokyo and its many attractions . If your itinerary doesn't allow a visit to the mountain, you can at least catch a good look at it as you whizz past on a high-speed Bullet Train to destinations such as Nagoya .

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Enjoy a faster pace in Kansai's capital

Top attractions in osaka.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Castle

Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Around osaka.

Osaka is the capital of Osaka Prefecture and one of Kansai's most beautiful cities. During night time, the illuminated billboards and skyscrapers light up the city. Places include Namba, Osaka's..

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About Osaka

The center of western Japan and the home of Japanese comedy, Osaka Prefecture (大阪府, Ōsaka-fu ) is lively at all times, as the business district in Umeda, the shopping area of Shinsaibashi, and the neon-lit nightlife district of Dotonbori reflect the upbeat and friendly nature of the local people.

But if you’re tired of the urbanity, Osaka Castle and the Expo Commemoration Park (which contains the National Museum of Ethnology and the iconic Tower of the Sun) ensure that you won’t run out of things to do. And that’s without even mentioning Universal Studios Japan .

Walking around the streets of Osaka can be a gastronomical experience, with many food stalls selling takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and other delicious fast foods and snacks. And if you have the luxury to splurge, have dinner at Kitcho, one of the most high class Japanese restaurants. 

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15 Memorable Things to do in Osaka, Japan

Osaka, Japan: where neon lights, mind-boggling structures, and avant-garde fashion meet zen temples, scenic woodland, and narrow lantern-lit alleyways. People often overlook the city of contrasts in favor of bigger places like Tokyo . However, they shouldn’t; it packs fantastic shopping, street food, and some of the most open and friendly locals in Japan ! Spend a few days enjoying all the top things to do in Osaka and its surroundings with this complete travel guide.

Things to do in Osaka

Osaka is a great place to start your Japan itinerary, with fantastic connections to nature and other major cities. The port city on Honshu Island suffered extensive bombing during the war, leaving few old buildings standing. This has made it one of the more contemporary cities in Japan.

However, what it lacks in historical architecture, it makes up for in color and flavor; discover its neon-lit bars, innovative food, well-humored residents, and bold and brave fashion choices.

Here are all your hotel options in Osaka.

1. Shopping in Osaka!

Shop to your heart’s content in Osaka, Japan! The city is home to many different shopping areas, all with their own unique characteristics. Whether you’re looking to peruse high-end designer stores or bargain with vendors at traditional markets, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Don’t miss out on America Mura, the vintage shops area of Osaka . Some of our favorite shopping spots are:

Kuromon Market Osaka

Exploring Kuromon Ichiba is one of the top things to do in Osaka, and it is known as the most famous market in the city. Within this 600-meter-long market, you’ll find street vendors selling traditional made-to-order dishes to both tourists and locals. It’s renowned for its fresh seafood; dine on oysters, scallops, and many other fish here!

See availability and tickets for a tour of Kuromon Market

Nipponbashi

Are you a fan of Japanese Anime and Manga culture? Even if you’ve never encountered the colorful, symbolic animations before, it’s an absolute must to immerse yourself in the fanatic community found in Nipponbashi. Here, you’ll see endless comic stores and Anime merchandise. You might even get a glimpse of Japan’s unique and unusual maid cafes!

Orange Street

The lesser-known Orange Street has long been hailed as ‘the place to go’ for furniture and antiques (dating back to the 1600s) However, after World War 2 and the economic boom in Japan , it became even more popular among Osakans.

These days, there are many types of shops woven in among the old furniture stores, including charming boutiques, general stores, and hipster cafes. It’s become a top thing to do in Osaka for the young and fashionable who love to come here at the weekend to peruse the vintage stores.

Shinsaibashisuji

Shinsaibashisuji is the busiest shopping street in Osaka, Japan! The long-roofed arcade is home to every type of store you can imagine, from traditional kimono stores to contemporary brands and world-renowned beauty stores (like Lush). There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from if you get hungry. 

Hotels in Osaka 😴

2. Get up High in Osaka, Japan

What better way to see the city than getting up high into the clouds for a birds-eye view of Osaka’s rooftops and monuments? There are a few great spots to gain some elevation:

Harukas 300

Harukas 300 is Japan’s tallest ‘building’ with a 360-degree view from the top deck. The 16th-floor observatory is free to enter, but you must pay 1,800 yen (9.50 USD) to visit the top deck.

See availability and tickets for the Harukas 300 Observatory

For a nail-biting experience, book ‘Edge the Harukas’ and walk along a 20-meter-long ledge attached to the building. The price is 1000 yen (6.50 USD), and you’ll need to show your passport.

Don’t miss out : Book your Edge the Harukas experience in advance

Umeda Sky Building Observatory

Visit the Kuchu Teien Observatory, a floating garden that connects the two twin towers of the Umeda Sky Building. Reach the top on a seethrough escalator ride (also the highest escalators in the world!). The entry fee is 1500 yen (10 USD)

Buy your tickets for Umeda Sky Building online

This is one of the most Iconic structures in Osaka, towering over the vibrant area of Shinsekei. At the top, there is a fantastic open deck, complete with a glass floor. And the adrenaline doesn’t stop there! Visitors can also use the ‘Tower Slider’, a giant slide that brings you from 60 meters up to the bottom — in just 10 seconds.

The entry fee is 1000 yen (6.50 USD) and an additional 1000 yen if you want to take the slide.

Get your admission tickets for Tsutenkaku here

3. Shinsekai District

Once you’ve experienced the incredible views from Tsūtenkaku Tower, take a wander around the district of Shinsekai. Known as the ‘New World’ of Osaka, the iconic street is home to contemporary stores, food stalls, and outdoor games. At night, every storefront glows with bright lights, including the Tsūtenkaku Tower, giving it a fun fairground-style feel.

Join this fascinating walking tour of Osaka!

4. Shitennō-ji Temple

One of the top things to do in Osaka is to visit the oldest temple in Japan: Shitennō-ji. This temple is known as one of the most important in Osaka, believed to have been built by the state thousands of years ago. The five-story temple has since been rebuilt but remains in its original style, situated among beautiful gardens. It’s a lovely place to come and relax, providing a quiet oasis away from the crowds of nearby Shinsekai.  

Tip: On Sunday, there’s a fantastic market in front of the temple.

Entry Fee: The outer temple is free to visit, but it’s worth paying 300 yen (2 USD) to enter the inner precinct, where you’ll find the five-story pagoda (you can also climb to the top!). The gardens cost 300 yen (2 USD), and the Treasure House, which houses ancient scriptures and paintings, has an entrance fee of 500 yen (3.50 USD).

Join this popular bike tour of Osaka (including a stop at Shitennō-ji)

Goshuin Stamp

Don’t forget to get your unique temple stamp on your visit to Shitennō-ji Temple! In Japan, it’s common for people to queue up at temples and shrines with decorated books ready for their Goshuin (shrine and temple stamps). Each shrine has its own individual stamp, so it’s a fun thing to collect on your trip! 

Tip: Normally, collecting your stamp is donation-based. However, we were unable to find a free stamp at Shitennō-ji. Instead, Hannah found a vendor who drew a unique one for her especially. The cost was 300 yen (2 USD) – a bargain!

5. America-mura (Top Thing to do in Osaka!)

The coolest neighborhood of Osaka, and our favorite, was America-Mura. Here the chilled street vibes of Osaka are in full swing, with music, colorful vending machines, abstract murals, vintage shops, trendy food spots, and decorated street lanterns. Visiting this area was one of our favorite things to do in Japan !

Even though it’s next to Mido-suji, a street laden with designer brands, America-Mura is a total contrast, with its small-town feel. Instead, you’ll find young people pushing the limits of fashion, searching for vintage treasures, or visiting the many tattoo parlors and piercing bars. It’s also a top spot for dancing and socializing at night, with some incredible nightclubs and bars. 

Tip: Pull up a chair, grab a coffee, and people-watch for hours as you spot the most ‘out there’ Japanese trends of the moment.

6. Dōtonbori District in Osaka

Welcome the busiest and most atmospheric street in Osaka: Dōtonbori. Here, you’ll find flashing neon lights, bright Japanese signs, LED billboards, wildly decorated storefronts, and unique restaurants. 

During the day, grab some delicious street food, like the famous Takoyaki Octopus Balls. After your stomach is full, visit the jaw-dropping Don Quijote, a massive store selling every item imaginable (it even has a giant Ferris wheel that you can ride on!). For a different perspective, cruise along the Dōtonbori Canal , where you can see some of the area’s most famous sites.

Book your river cruise tickets in advance

At night, Dōtonbori becomes one of the best things to do in Osaka when the neon lights are turned on and the crowds flock. As you take in all the brightly lit signage, look out for the famous ‘running man’ Glico Sign — one of the biggest billboards in town. 

Tip: For a totally unique thing to do in Osaka, book a go-kart and dress up as your favorite video game character. You’ll pass through many of Osaka’s most well-loved sites, including Dōtonbori.

Reserve your go-kart experience online

7. Hozenji Yokocho

Discover the charming Hozenji Yokocho, a narrow, stone-paved street full of tiny traditional restaurants. Even though it’s located close to Dōtonbori, it feels a world away as you dive into time-worn alleyways. In the evening, warmly lit lanterns show the way to small, bustling eateries — often frequented by the rich and famous of Osaka, Japan.

As you explore, look out for the small temple: Hozenji (the street’s namesake). The temple is home to a famous moss-covered statue of the Buddhist deity, Fudo, who is said to grant wishes. You’ll also see local people splashing water on the statue for luck and protection from evil.

8. Osaka Castle (Top Thing to do in Osaka!)

Osaka Castle is symbolic of Osaka, much like the Eiffel Tower is for France and the Colosseum for Rome . The imposing castle sits on its own island, overlooking the city, and surrounded by a deep moat. 

The surroundings are characterized by beautiful gardens filled with different types of trees; in fall, it’s spectacular with the warm-colored foliage, and in Spring, it’s a much-loved spot to see the Cherry Blossom. On weekends, local people gather in the gardens to relax in the grass, listen to live music, and look at the picturesque castle.

Avoid queuing: Book your Osaka Castle tickets online

Visiting Information Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is the city’s most popular site. Follow these tips to get the most out of your visit:

• Things to see : Inside the castle, you’ll find historical items and an 8th-floor observation deck for amazing views.
• Entry Fee: Tickets cost 600 yen (4 USD). We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance . However, if you leave it until the day, don’t worry; ticket lines go down fast.
• Duration: Spend 1-2 hours visiting the entire site. If you’d like to visit inside the castle, arrive early as it will get crowded.
• Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (extended during summer and cherry blossom season).

• Kimono Rental : Take some photos next to the castle wearing a traditional Kimono. In Japan, this is not considered cultural appropriation. In fact, it’s quite the opposite; locals encourage visitors to dress in Kimonos and better understand the cultural practice.  Reserve your kimono online .
• Stamps: Don’t forget to get your unique stamp on your visit to Osaka Castle! Sometimes, limited edition stamps are released during the year for various festivals or to mark the changing of the seasons.

Read: 14 unmissable things to do in Kyoto, Japan !

9. Visit the Deer in Nara

While planning your Japan itinerary, you’ve probably seen the iconic images of cute deer interacting with tourists: this is the beautiful city of Nara! This city is unlike any other in Japan , home to expansive woodlands, endless temples, botanical gardens, and romantic pagodas — all accompanied by 1000+ friendly (and cheeky!) deer.

Visiting during fall is especially lovely when the leaves pop in warm reds, oranges, and yellows. ( Book one of the many incredible tours around Nara )

Admission to Nara Park, an area close to the city center, is free. However, on arrival, you may want to purchase some natural crackers (200 yen/1.50 USD) to feed the deer. Please only feed them the crackers provided.

Explore Nara with a local guide. See tickets and availability for a half-day tour.

Getting to Nara Park

From Osaka Namba Station, you have two options for getting to Nara:

1) Yamatoji Line: Take the Yamatoji Line train from Osaka Namba Station directly to the JR Nara Station (45 minutes). Holders of the JR pass can use it for this trip. 

Buy your Japan Rail Pass in advance

2) Kintetsu Rapid Express: Take the Kintetsu Rapid Express train from Osaka Namba Station to Kintetsu Nara Station (30 minutes). Please note that the JR Pass does not cover this route, although sometimes you can find other discounts online!

Tip: Near Nara JR station, you’ll find Nakatanidou, a store making the famous Japanese sweet treat: Mochi. Watch one of the daily Mochi-making shows, where chefs pound the rice flour dough. The end result is a vibrant jelly dessert packed with sweet black bean paste — delicious!

10. Stay in a Koyasan Temple

One of the top things to do in Osaka is to spend the day in the sacred temple village of Koyasan . Discover over 100 stunning temples dotted up the slopes of Mount Koya and gain a deeper understanding of this holy Buddhist pilgrimage site. It’s the perfect place to unwind after city life: breathe in the cold mountain air and visit the tranquil, snow-covered cemetery and gardens.

Read everything about a temple stay in Koyasan, Japan.

If you have time on your Japan itinerary, don’t miss the incredible experience of staying overnight in a Koyasan temple . The modest Buddhist lodgings are very traditional, complete with basic futons, sliding doors, and shared bathrooms; it’s the perfect opportunity to live as the monks have for hundreds of years!

During your stay, you’ll also be asked if you’d like to join the monks for a typical dinner, morning prayer, and meditation. Don’t miss out on this top thing to do in Osaka (one of our favorite adventures in Japan!).

Hotels in Koyasan 😴

Getting there: The journey from Osaka to Koyasan is relatively straightforward. First, take the train from Osaka Namba Station to Gokurabashi (1.5 hours). From here, take the cable car up the mountain to Koyosan for 390 yen (2.50 USD). Please note that the JR Pass does not cover this route.

11. Trip to Nachi Falls

Located close to the fishing town of Nachikatsuura and nestled among the Kii mountain range, discover the extraordinary Nachi Falls. Known as Japan’s tallest free-falling waterfall, the water plunges from 133 meters high, surrounded by luscious greenery and ancient woodland. 

The falls are sacred to many people throughout Japan, as it’s believed they are home to an important Shinto deity. It’s also one of the stops on the famous Kumano Kudo pilgrimage route, and many visitors stop here as part of this walk. 

Apart from gazing in wonder at the majestic falls, you can visit a few other interesting sites in the area. One iconic spot is the red Seiganto-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most scenic pagodas, framed by a backdrop of the mighty falls. 

Close to the temple is the Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine, an important Hiro Shrine. From the base of Nachi Falls, take a 30-minute hike up charming stone steps to the shrine for beautiful views.

Note: Although the shrine and temple are free to enter, you need to pay 300 yen for the viewing platform.

Getting to Nachi Falls

Getting to Nachi Falls from Osaka is relatively simple, but it does take a bit of time:

• Take the train from Tennoji Station in Osaka to the JR Kii-Katsuura Station in the center of Nachikatsuura. It’s a beautiful coastal train ride that takes around 4 hours (covered by your JR Pass).
• Once at Nachikatsuura, take a bus headed from Nachi Falls in 30 minutes. 
• From the bus drop-off, it’s just a 5-minute walk to Nachi Falls.

Hotels in Nachikatsuura

As the journey is relatively long to Nachi Falls, many people opt to stay in Nachikatsuura for the night. This is also a good idea if you want to explore more of the area. There are plenty of budget hotels, as well as the more luxurious hot spring hotels.

Hotels in Nachikatsuura 😴

12. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

A wonderful thing to do in Osaka is to visit Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of the country’s most famous and beautiful Buddhist shrines. Founded in the 3rd century, it’s remained the headquarters for all Sumiyoshi Shrines in Japan.

The shrine is primarily known, though, for its spectacular Sorihashi bridge. This high-arched red bridge crosses over a pretty pond and adds to the charm of this peaceful spot. Best of all, it’s free to visit! 

13. TeamLab Botanical Gardens

For an unusual thing to do in Osaka, visit the teamLab Botanical Gardens! If you’ve already visited the famous teamLab Planets in Tokyo , you’ll be pleased to know that the botanical gardens have a similar digital art concept. The night-time project explores how nature can become art (without harming the plants) by using light and sound installations. Plus, everything is interactive, transforming according to weather conditions and the visiting humans. 

Book your teamLab entry ticket online . Open 6.15 PM – 9.30 PM/1,800 yen (12 USD).

14. Minoo Park

For a beautiful day out in nature, head for Minoo Park – located a short journey away from the city. The spectacular woodland area is popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts who want to breathe in the fresh air and visit the picturesque waterfalls. In fall, it is even more unique when all the maple leaves turn a variety of deep reds, burnt oranges, and sunny yellows.

The park is free to enter; just bring 300 yen (2 USD) to try the local delicacy: deep-fried maple leaves!

Getting to Minoo Park 

• Start at Osaka-umeda Station
• Take the Hankyu Takarazu Line Express Train to Tazarazuka
• Stop at Ishibashi Handai-mae Station and transfer onto the Hankyu-Minoo line towards Minoo. The train journey takes approximately 25 minutes in total
• From Minoo Station, it’s a 1-hour walk to the falls along a pretty forest trail
• Please note that the journey to Minoo Falls is not covered by the JR Pass

Book your train tickets to Minoo in advance

15. Universal Studios (Fun Thing to do in Osaka)

Osaka, Japan , is the home of the world-famous Universal Studios! If you have time on your trip, spend a fun day out enjoying the theme park and the various rides. Get your adrenaline pumping on rapid Jurassic Park rollercoasters, eat snacks in the shape of your favorite film characters, and visit a real-life Hogwarts castle.

Book your Universal Studios tickets in advance here

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Osaka

Street food in Osaka is king, and you can find sweet and savory delicacies on almost every corner. In fact, the city is so well-loved for its cuisine that it’s fondly referred to as ‘the nation’s kitchen’. 

Make sure to try the delicious Osaka Style Pressed Sushi! This type of sushi is made with brightly-colored toppings and vinegar rice and molded into perfect rectangles.

Learn more on this popular food tour in Osaka

Some of our favorite restaurants in Osaka are:

• Sakana no Jimbe
• Falafel Sababa
• B portland Coffe Bakery
• Bistro Tachizushi Kalimotxo
• Gyukatsu Motomura
• Paprika Shokudo Vegan
• Okonomiyaki Sakaba O
• 炭火焼鳥 一兆 日本橋本店
• Trattoria Pizzeria Allegro

Tip: Bring your reusable water bottle with you; you can drink water from the taps in most places in Japan! This is an excellent way to save money and travel plastic-free .

Where to Stay in Osaka, Japan

Locate yourself close to all the best things to do in Osaka by staying close to the bustling areas of Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, or Namba. America Mura was our absolute favorite district in Osaka and is also a fantastic place to stay. However, if you want to stay in this fashion hotspot, we recommend booking well in advance, as hotels and guesthouses get booked very quickly.

• Hotels in America Mura
• Hotels near Shinsaibashi
• Hotels in Dotonbori
• Hotels near Namba  

How Many Days in Osaka?

We recommend 2-3 days to see all the top things to do in Osaka. However, if you want to see some of the beautiful places outside the city, like Nara Park or Nachi Falls, 5 days is a good option.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Japan trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

How to Visit Osaka

Osaka has two major airports: Kansai International Airport and Itami Airport (domestic). Although Kansai Airport is further away from the city center, it has excellent public transport connections and serves many destinations worldwide. 

Tip: It’s best to get an eSim in advance so you’re directly connected when you land in Japan. Buy your sim online here .

You’ll most likely fly into Kansai, where you can take a leisurely train from the airport with a seat reservation for 1350 yen (9 USD) per person. The journey takes 50-70 minutes, depending on which district you’re heading to in Osaka.

Book your train tickets from Kansai Airport

Osaka to Tokyo

Flying into or out of Tokyo ? Use your JR Pass to book bullet train tickets to Osaka (3-4 hours).

Osaka to Kyoto

The Shinkansen takes just 15 minutes to travel from Osaka to Kyoto. Alternatively, the JR trains take 30 minutes to travel from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station.

Getting Around

Traveling around Osaka is a dream; the organized Japanese public transport system makes it super easy to get from A to B. Metros, and trains reach most of the top things to do in Osaka, and you’ll also find excellent connections further afield using the high-speed Shinkansen (bullet train). 

Note: Because the travel network in Osaka is so organized, you’ll never experience delays; trains and metros depart precisely at the minute specified.

Osaka is also known as a bike-friendly city, and you’ll see lots of locals and tourists enjoying the extensive network of bike lanes. Use these to visit some of the city’s best sites and enjoy cycling along the waterfront for a more peaceful activity in Osaka. 

Join this popular bike tour of Osaka

Is the JR Pass worth it? ( Calculate it here ) The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited access to all public transport throughout Japan, so it’s a great option if you plan on taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) several times. It’s also multi-use for other trains, ferries, and buses throughout the country. 

Buy your Japan Rail Pa ss in advance

How Much Does Osaka Cost?

Like most destinations in Japan, Osaka is on the more expensive side to visit. However, prices are lower than in bigger cities like Tokyo , and you can keep to your budget if necessary. For example, by eating street food at the markets, walking or renting a bike, or booking a hostel for your trip. Visit Osaka outside of the more popular seasons of Spring and Fall, and you’ll also see a reduction in accommodation prices. 

Budget Tip: If you’d like a quick snack or an affordable takeaway lunch, we recommend going to the supermarkets 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or Lawson. You can find delicious Onigiri (a rice ball with fish inside and packed in crunchy seaweed) or even mix a cup of frozen fruits into a smoothie.

Costs of Traveling in Osaka

Travel on a budget in Osaka, from $390 − $520 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1600 − $3230 USD, and high-end from $2910 − $4540 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $90 − $300 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $40 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $30 − $140 USD
• Activities: $5 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Osaka

To see Osaka at its most beautiful, Spring and Fall are the times to visit. During this time, the trees around most of the city’s popular attractions turn candy pink with cherry blossoms or showcase the warm colors of fall.

For day trips outside the city to places like Minoo Park or Nachi Falls, with expansive woodland, the autumn season elevates the scenery to another level.

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GUIDE Ultimate must-see guide to Osaka

Food, fun and nightlife meet history and culture in osaka.

Osaka is a vibrant and dynamic city with something to offer every traveller – from foodies and families to those who like to stroll traditional shrines and temples to art lovers and those who love to shop until they drop. No matter how many times you visit, you’ll discover something new and leave with fond memories that will keep you coming back for more.

Osaka is located in the Kansai region, the centre of the Honshu, the largest of the four main islands of Japan.

Takoyaki, a savoury snack sometimes referred to as ‘octopus balls’ in English. Image: fumi901/Shutterstock.com 

There’s nothing quite like the food in Osaka. Known as ‘the nation’s kitchen’, you’ll find everything from hearty street food and authentic family-owned restaurants to Michelin-star fine dining. Whatever your tastes, you are sure to leave Osaka with a full belly and delicious memories. 

As far as street food goes, you can’t go past the Dotonbori district. Along the river, you will find endless stalls serving takoyaki (spherical savoury dumplings filled with cooked octopus pieces and topped with savoury sauce, mayonnaise, dried seaweed and bonito flakes), ramen and okonomiyaki (savoury pancake made with chopped cabbage, flour and egg with toppings) to name a few. The streets and alleys also have plenty of options for dining in at izakaya (casual Japanese-style pubs), bars and restaurants. Try a crab restaurant which this district is famous for. Or perhaps the Osaka-style sushi called hakozushi (boxed sushi) where they are pressed in a square wooden mould! For a more traditional market experience head to Kuromon Market in the Namba district and wander some 170 stalls specialising in fish, meat and produce. Or if you’re wanting to dine where the locals do, a visit to Tenma is a must. 

Neon nightlife

Tsutenkaku Tower lit up at night* in the Shinsekai (new world) district at night. Image: Luciano Mortula - LGM/Shutterstock.com

Dotonbori is not only known for its amazing street food, but it is also the location of bright lights and buzzing nightlife. This restaurant and bar district certainly comes to life after dark. Stroll along the strip and take in the colourful lights and signs of the lining buildings. The evening is perfectly paired with a cold Japanese beer and a hot snack from a street vendor. Don’t forget to take a snap with the giant neon Glico man! 

Take a stroll and be wowed by bright lights and colours at Shinsekai, also known as the ‘New World’ district. Designed as an entertainment district in the early 20th century, the district is not your typical Japanese neighbourhood with Western cultural influences in its architecture and design. The northern half of Shinsekai was inspired by Paris while the southern portion is inspired by New York City’s, Coney Island.

It will also be hard to miss the famous Tsutenkaku Tower which is a popular attraction in Shinsekai. Built in 1912 and inspired by Paris’ Eiffel Tower, the tower stands at an incredible 103 metres high with the main observatory deck at 91 metres, so get ready for some amazing views of the vibrant Shinsekai district! 

*Note: The LED lights on Tsutenkaku Tower are under renovation until September 2023.

Seasonal festivals and events 

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri. Image: StreetVJ/Shutterstock.com

Japan is well known for its vibrant festivals and events and Osaka is no exception. Shogatsu (New Year) is a fantastic time to visit if you’re looking to celebrate and discover matsuri (festival) traditions.

Many shrines hold New Year's events including Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. On 1 st January, multitudes of people visit for hatsumode – the customary first shrine visit of the year. And if you think the celebrations are over at the conclusion of the first day of the year, think again. Toka Ebisu Festival is held one week after New Year from January 9 to January 11 at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine. Enjoy the festive parade, street food and lucky charms! For a summer parade with all the trimmings, the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival features hundreds of men and ornately decorated traditional wooden floats called danjiri. Other summer festivals include Tenjin Matsuri and Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival.

If you’re looking for something more modern, plan your visit around Summer Sonic or the Osaka Festival of Lights held in winter.

Natural wonders

Beautiful waterfall in autumn in Minoo Park, Osaka. Image: anek.soowannaphoom/Shutterstock.com 

Pack a picnic and take a stroll through the magical cherry blossoms (sakura) in spring. Some of the best places in Osaka to view sakura include Expo ’70 Commemorative Park , Kema Sakuranomiya Park , Osaka Castle Park and Kishiwada Castle .

But it’s not just spring that provides spectacular natural phenomena, autumn is an amazing time to see the trees ablaze with colours of crimson, orange and gold. You can experience koyo (autumn leaves) in a number of places around Osaka. Walk down Midosuji Street to see the yellow ginkgo trees or explore the grounds of Katsuoji Temple to admire the fiery red of the Japanese maples. If you’re up for a hike, take the main trail in Minoo Park and admire the autumn foliage before arriving at the majestic waterfall. Or head to Mt Inunaki and visit the hot spring resort located at the foot of the mountain, Shipporyuji Temple or its many hiking trails to marvel at the autumn colours.

Tradition and heritage 

Shishiden (Lion hall) of Namba Yasaka Jinja Shrine. Image: Jasonyan/Shutterstock.com

With over 1,400 years of history, Osaka has countless locations where the tradition and culture of Japan can be experienced. One of the main attractions is Osaka Castle . Set amongst the modern backdrop of the city and surrounded by parkland, it is an iconic sight to behold. Other significant sites include Shitennoji Temple, Namba Yasaka Shrine and Hozenji Temple . After your visit to Hozenji Temple, be sure to grab a bite to eat along the street of Hozenji Yokocho and step back in time to the Osaka of old.

Art and culture lovers 

The Tower of the Sun at the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. Image: tbbstudio/Shutterstock.com

Osaka is a wonderful mixture of old and new, creating a vibrant and interesting culture. The expression of this can be seen in the many modalities of art displayed across the city. 

With over 8,000 pieces of contemporary art, The National Museum of Art, Osaka , is a good place to start. Or perhaps the newly opened Nakanoshima Museum of Art on the island of Nakanoshima . Then go back in history at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. Admire the re-created buildings and streets and feel what living in Osaka was once like.

Wander Midosuji Sculpture Street for your public art fix and for theatre lovers there is the National Bunraku Theatre*. For something completely different, visit the  Cupnoodles Museum and learn all about instant ramen noodles! Don’t forget to drop by My CUPNOODLES Factory on the first floor to create your one-of-a-kind cup noodles package where you get to design the cup and choose your favourite soup base and toppings. 

*English translations are available for some performances. It is recommended to contact the theatre directly to confirm.

Experiences

Umeda Sky Building at night. Image: GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock.com

An architectural icon of Osaka has to be the Umeda Sky Building , which consists of 2 modern tower buildings connected by the circular Floating Garden Observatory (Kuchu Teien) at the top. Head up to the observatory to enjoy 360° views of Osaka’s cityscape, then make your way down to the basement floor and explore the retro restaurant alley encapsulating Showa Period (early 20th century). 

Neighbourhoods

Namba , Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi  

Think shopping, eateries and entertainment. The popular Dotonbori street and canal dissect the two neighbourhoods of Namba and Shinsaibashi. Shinsaibashi offers some great shopping opportunities such as the eight blocks of Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street , and the street fashion and vintage hub of Amerikamura . For budding and professional chefs, a visit to Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street in Namba will fill up your cooking cup. A 150-metre long street lined with stores selling every type of cooking utensil and kitchen item you could dream of.

Nipponbashi

Den Den Town in Nipponbashi is perfect for hobbyists who are interested in Japanese anime and manga. Pop culture stores sell collectible figurines and other interesting merchandise. It’s also a great place to shop for electronics and appliances. If you’re in the market for vintage video games and consoles, this could also be the perfect hunting ground. Once you’ve shopped up a storm, stop in at one of the restaurants or cafes, some of which are anime themed.

Horie (Minamihorie and Kitahorie)   

The Horie River runs between Kitahorie and Minamihorie. Horie is a fashionable neighbourhood and a visit here should include a walk down Orange Street . Featuring boutiques, craft ateliers, furniture stores, bars and trendy cafes.

Osaka Castle and around

A mixture of the historical and the modern, the main attraction of this neighbourhood is of course, Osaka Castle . Pack a picnic and wander the beautiful grounds of Osaka Castle Park and visit the nearby Osaka Museum of History . 

Conveniently located near JR Osaka Station, Umeda is a popular commercial neighbourhood full of tourists, business people and shoppers. One of the most iconic attractions is the Umeda Sky building . From here you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Head to Grand Front Osaka for shopping, Tsuyuten Shrine for a traditional experience or the SUPER DRY Umeda beer hall for food and drink.

Tennoji and Shinsekai are urban centres full of alleyways that reflect an Osaka of the past. While in Tennoji, visit Tennoji Park , Shitennoji Temple and the current tallest skyscraper in Japan, Abeno Harukas. You’ll know you're in Shinsekai when you glimpse the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower . Tachinomi (standing bars) are also a common feature of the Tennoji and Shinsekai areas. A great place to stop and enjoy a beverage with the locals.

Nakanoshima

Nakanoshima is a fantastic neighbourhood for contemporary art and culture lovers. It is actually an island and the centre for commerce and government in Osaka. It is also home to many great hotels, museums and restaurants.

The Osaka Bay Area offers attractions that are family-friendly or for those big kids at heart. It is here that you’ll find Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan . Visit the Tempozan promenade for shopping, ride the giant Ferris wheel and dine at the restaurants. And of course, one of the best ways to see the bay is to hop on a cruise.

Sakai and Kishiwada  

Accommodation in Osaka is available to suit all budgets and comfort levels, offering everything from western-style to traditional Japanese stays for you to enjoy. 

Experience a shukubo (traditional temple stay) and get a glimpse of daily temple life including vegetarian meals, prayers and meditation - expect nothing less than a peaceful and tranquil visit. Or you can witness first-hand Japan’s famed omotenashi (hospitality) at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inns). Dating back to the 8th century, you can expect to see traditional tatami flooring, futon beddings, private baths and delicious in-house kaiseki  (multi-course meal). 

For a modern stay, Osaka offers plenty of western style hotels with settings and amenities familiar to travellers from Australia and New Zealand. Generally, you will find western-style beds, a small writing desk, a refrigerator, a kettle and an ensuite bathroom. 

Other factors to consider when choosing accommodation are access to transport and distance to shops, restaurants and attractions. Popular locations include Namba, Umeda, Honmachi (Central Osaka) and Shin-Osaka areas. 

How to get around

Osaka is a 2.5-hour shinkansen ride from Tokyo, or you can also fly to Kansai International Airport (KIX). Travel around the city via the subway, the JR Osaka Loop Line (circling the central districts) and private railway lines. There are also a number of economical train passes and tickets available for exploring Osaka and the Kansai region.

You can also explore Osaka via water bus or a cruise. Sightseeing taxis are available as well. Osaka is bicycle friendly with English-speaking bike rental services available.

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

©Mlenny/Getty Images

If Kyoto was the city of the courtly nobility and Tokyo the city of the samurai, then Osaka (大阪) was the city of the merchant class. Osakans take pride in shedding the conservatism found elsewhere in Japan, and this spirited city – Japan's third-largest – is a place where people are a bit brasher, and interactions are peppered with playful jabs.

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Experience the real Osaka. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Abeno Harukas

This César Pelli–designed tower, which opened in March 2014, is Japan's tallest building (300m, 60 storeys). The observatory on the 16th floor is free,…

After unifying Japan in the late 16th century, General Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this castle (1583) as a display of power, using, it's said, the labour of…

Highly photogenic Dōtombori is the city's liveliest night spot and the centre of the southern part of town. Its name comes from the 400-year-old canal,…

Amerika-Mura

West of Midō-suji, Amerika-Mura is a compact enclave of hip, youth-focused and offbeat shops, plus cafes, bars, tattoo and piercing parlours, nightclubs,…

National Museum of Ethnology

This ambitious museum showcases the world's cultures, presenting them as the continuous (and tangled) strings that they are. There are plenty of…

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyūkan

Kaiyūkan is among Japan's best aquariums. An 800m-plus walkway winds past displays of sea life from around the Pacific 'ring of fire': Antarctic penguins,…

A century ago, Shin-Sekai ('new world') was home to an amusement park that defined cutting edge. Now this entertainment district mixes down-at-heel with…

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Dedicated to Shintō deities of the sea and sea travel, this graceful shrine was founded in the early 3rd century and is considered the headquarters for…

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• Destinations

30 Best Things to Do in Osaka

What to Do in Osaka: Bucket List

Osaka is the capital city of Western Japan , and the second largest metropolitan city in Japan after Tokyo. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan that attracts visitors from all around the world. Together with Tokyo and Kyoto, Osaka is one of three must-visit cities in Japan for every visitors to Japan.

There are countless tourist attractions in Osaka including delicious local food, trendy shopping streets, bustling districts lit by neon lights, modern skyscraper, the world’s greatest amusement park, and more. The unique culture and friendly locals are also two attractive points that add a distinctive character to the city like no other.

If you are planning your first visit to Osaka and wondering about the best things to do, see and experience in Osaka, please check out this Osaka Bucket List! The list includes 30 best things to do in Osaka from classic tourist attractions to trendy places that can help you to plan a perfect trip in Osaka!

In addition to the classic things to do in Osaka introduced below, the following article also recommends new tourist sites and cool accommodations just opening in 2024. The popular Universal Studio Japan offers the newest attractions collaborating with the hottest pop culture including Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba XR Ride and Donkey Kong Country. And, from events such as Summer Sonic 2024 to the latest commercial facilities like KITTE Osaka and Grand Green Osaka, there is a variety to explore. If you’re planning to visit Osaka this year or want to keep up with the latest trends, be sure to check out such unique information for 2024.

▶️10 Best Things to Do in Osaka 2024

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

1. Experience the thrill of rides and attractions at Universal Studios Japan

Visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is one of the best things to do in Osaka for friend groups, couples and families. It is the most visited theme park in Japan along with Tokyo Disney Resort (Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea). USJ offers numbers of fun and thrilling attractions with themes of popular movies and characters including Spiderman, Jurassic Park, JAWS, Harry Potter, Minions and Super Mario. Moreover, there have been also lots of collaborations with popular anime and manga lately such as Demon Slayer, Pokemon and Detective Conan.

▶ Book your Universal Studios Japan Osaka e-tickets here! 

The park is divided in 10 areas of Hollywood, New York, San Francisco, Jurassic Park, Waterworld, Amity Village, Universal Wonderland, Minion Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Nintendo World. Seasonal events and limited-time attractions are also available at the park through the year such as Halloween and Christmas.

Besides attractions, Universal Studios Japan merchandise collections are hugely popular among visitors. You can find limited products of popular characters like Minions, Sesame Street, Hello Kitty and more! There are also cute character themed food and drinks available at the park.

Universal Studios Japan tickets can be purchased at the ticket booth of the park, however, it’s strongly recommended to purchase your ticket online in advance to save queuing time. There are also various types of tickets available, so please check the link below to learn about the best way to purchase Universal Studios Japan tickets.

▶ Ticket Guide to Universal Studio Japan

2. Explore the vibrant streets and delicious food of Dotonbori

Dotonbori (道頓堀) is Osaka’s most touristic neighbourhood located in Minami area. The energetic and vibrant district is famous for billboards and shop displays with neon lights such as Glico Running Man and the moving gigantic crab.

Dotonbori is a popular area to dine out as a great number of restaurants are located within the area. As a center of entertainment in Osaka, the district has no shortage of spots for sightseeing, shopping, food, attractions, etc.. that you will never be bored!

Do you want to explore the neighbourhood of Dotonbori deeper?? You won’t miss the best bits of Dotonbori with “ Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai ”. This popular walking tour introduces a variety of local specialties in both Dotonbori and Shinsekai.

3. Indulge in the local cuisine of Osaka, known for its delicious and unique flavors

Local food is definitely a top attraction in Osaka. Some of Osaka specialties are nation’s favourite such as Takoyaki (Octopus Balls) , Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes) , Ikayaki (squid pancake) and Kushi Katsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables). On the streets of Osaka, you can easily find shops and stalls offering authentic taste of local food with inexpensive prices. When in Osaka, you will never feel hungry as you might want to try all the delicious Osaka specialties!

Osaka is best-known for tasty and affordable local dishes, but if you wish to have a high-end dining experience in Japan, Osaka is also one of the best cities. Some of Japan’s top-rated restaurants are located in Osaka including fine Sushi restaurants and Michelin starred restaurants .

Check out the list of the best restaurants in Osaka ▶ 20 Best Restaurants in Osaka

Another great way to explore the glorious Osaka food culture is joining in a cooking class hosted by local teachers! Japanese cooking class has been one of the top tourist attractions in the country in recent years as you can experience the authentic food culture through the class as well as have a quality time with locals. Also, you can take the recipes at the end of the class so you can cook the dishes for your friends and family back home.

There are various kinds of cooking classes available in Osaka today such as the classic Sushi making, trending Ramen making, authentic home cooking dishes like Udon noodle and Gyoza dumplings, making unique character Bento box, and let’s not to forget Osaka specialties such as Takoyaki (octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (savory pancake).

Check out the best cooking classes available in Osaka ▶ Best Osaka Cooking Classes

4. Marvel at the beauty and history of Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle(大阪城) is a symbol of Osaka and one of the greatest castles in Japan. Osaka Castle is an important historic monument that represents the great history of Azuchi-Momoyama period during the sixteenth century. The castle was built in 1583 by the order of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the one of the most famous unifying warlords of Japanese history. The castle is located within the Osaka Castle Park, which is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, with approx 3,000 cherry trees flourishing during the season.

The castle grounds, which cover approx 61,000 square metres, consist of gates, turrets, fortifications and moats (inner and outer) including 13 structures designated to “important cultural assets” by the Japanese government. The castle stores valuable documents and materials, and the rich history of Osaka Castle and Hideyoshi Toyotomi can be explored in the museum inside. The castle also has an observation deck on the top floor (8F) where you can gaze the astonishing view of Osaka City.

Looking for a unique way to explore around Osaka Castle? The “Osaka Bike Tour to the Neighborhoods of Osaka Castle” is highly recommended half-day tour for active travellers, which you can cycle around the neighbourhood of Osaka, feel the breeze and skip the crowds! The tour includes delicious Okonomiyaki lunch, too!

Find out more details about the tour! ▶ Book Online: 4-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour

5. Discover the wonders of marine life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Kaiyukan (海遊館) is one of the biggest aquariums in the world, displaying over 600 kinds of different marine life such as turtles, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, rays, jellyfish and more. It’s a great place both for kids and adults to explore the underwater world. It’s located in the Tempozan Harbor Village of Osaka’s bay area (not far from Universal Studios Japan).

The walk-in aquarium boasts 15 fish tanks in total with each one recreating a region of the Pacific Rim including Japan Forest, Aleutian Islands, Antarctica, Tasman Sea and Great Barrier Reef. The Aqua Gate allows you to experience what it’s like to be under the sea by passing through the transparent undersea tunnel. The largest fish tank the “Pacific Ocean” with the size of 9m deep and 34m long consists of 5,400 tons of water and holds a wide variety of sea creatures including two whale sharks, the largest fish species in the world.

▶ Book e-tickets to Kaiyukan Aquarium!

Map: http://bit.ly/2FvjQBi

6. Enjoy panoramic views of the Osaka Bay area from the Tempozan Ferris Wheel

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel (天保山大観覧車) is a Ferris wheel located at Tempozan Harbor Village, next to the Kaiyukan Aquarium. It opened to the public in 1997 as the largest Ferris wheel in the world at that time. The wheel has a height of 112.5m (369 ft) and diameter of 100m).

You can enjoy a panoramic view of the Osaka Bay area and surroundings during a 17-min ride including Mt Ikoma, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Kansai Airport and Rokko Mountain when the visibility is good. It’s also a popular place to visit at night as the Ferris wheel is lit-up by colourful LED lights after dark and you can enjoy a romantic night view of the city. A fun fact of the Ferris wheel is that the colour of the light indicates a weather forecast for the next day (orange for a sunny day, green for a cloudy day and blue for a rainy day).

Osaka has another symbolic Ferris wheel in the city center. The Hep Five, a popular shopping complex in Umeda area, is home to approx 170 shops, restaurants and amusement facilities including an iconic vivid red Ferris wheel with 75m diameter. With the highest point reaching 106m above the ground, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Osaka city with some of iconic landmarks.

Map:  http://bit.ly/2SilI54

7. Immerse yourself in the retro atmosphere of Shinsekai

Shinsekai (新世界) is a unique and attractive district in Osaka where you can feel the authentic vibe of Osaka in old times. Shinsekai literally means “New World” as the distric was developed as a new tourist attraction in 1912, yet, it suffered from a massive economic corruption by 1930, then was heavily damaged during the war. After the war, Shinsekai became infamous for Osaka’s most poor and dangerous area, however, the bad reputation slowly faded away in 90s, then it became one of the most popular tourist spots in the city.

The nostalgic, old downtown Shinsekai attracts visitors with the unique post-war atmosphere. The streets of Shinsekai is filled with colourful and retro shop displays which make the district one of the most popular photography spots in Osaka. Tsutenkaku Tower is a must-visit landmark in Shinsekai, which was buit in 1912 resembling the Eiffel Tower in Paris. There is an observation deck in the tower where you can enjoy the view overlooking the charming neighbourhood and the central city.

If you want to dig Shinsekai deeper, visit Janjan Yokocho, a 180m long retro shopping alley filled with shops, restaurants and bars. Kushikatsu (fried skewer) is a particularly popular dish from the district and there are several restaurants where you can enjoy crispy and delicious Kushikatsu at very reasonable price.

8. Shop for trendy fashion in the trendy district of Shinsaibashi

Shinsaibashi (心斎橋) is the best district for shopping in Osaka. From luxury brands to fast fashion retailers, there are numbers of shopping malls and boutiques gathering within the area. Shinsaibashi-suji is a famous shopping arcade which is 600m long and consists of hundreds of shops from small boutiques to large departments stores.

The covered arcade always offers a comfortable shopping experience without concerning a weather condition. There are not only clothing stores, but also a wide variety of shops in this massive shopping arcade such as drugstores, variety shops, restaurants, cafes and more. It’s the place to shop till you drop in Osaka!

Parallel and one block west of the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade, there is another shopping avenue called Midosuji. Often described as the Champs Elysee of the Orient, Midosuji is lined with luxury boutiques and department stores, and approx 1,000 ginkgo trees are planted along the avenue. It’s a popular spot for autumn leaves viewing as the ginkgo leaves turn yellow during the season as well as for winter light-up as the avenue is illuminated by romantic lights.

▶ Best Things to Do in Shinsaibashi

9. Discover the diverse culture of America Mura (American Village)

Exploring America Mura or American Village (アメリカ村) is among the premier things to do in Osaka. The vibrant district is known as the center of young culture in Osaka, often compared with Harajuku district in Tokyo. It’s filled with over 2,000 outlets including boutiques, vintage clothing shops, cafes, galleries and record shops. The district has been a center of Osaka’s young culture for over 40 years. If you are into Japanese street culture including trendy fashion, vintage clothes and street food, this is the area you should visit in Osaka.

The landmark of America Mura, Sankaku Koen (Triangle Park) is situated in the center of the district where people meet up and hang out, and some street performances, flea markets, and even fashion shows take place on some weekends. Another symbol of America Mura is the Peace on Earth wall painting drawn by Japanese artist Seitaro Kuroda. You can spot a lot of graffiti and street art in this area. America Mura is also known as a vibrant nightlife and entertainment district as many bars and clubs in the district get crowded after dark.

10. Marvel at the stunning architecture of Umeda Sky Building

Umeda Sky Building (梅田スカイビル) is a high rise building located in the Kita district, near Osaka and Umeda stations. The 173m tall building was designed by Japanese architect Hiroshi Hara, is known as one of the most renowned architectures in the world for its unique shape and structure with two 40-story towers that are connected with bridges and escalator crossing in the center.

This modern landmark of Osaka has a observatory called Kuchu Teien (means The Floating Garden) on the 39th, 40th floors and the rooftop. It’s one of the top attractions in Osaka, offering a panoramic city view from the 360-degree open air deck. The observatory features a newly refurbished corridor “Lumi Skywalk” filled with luminous stones which glows in dark and offers a dreamy walk as if going on a journey through the galaxy.

At 39th and 40th floor, there are cafe, restaurant and bar where you can be indulged with delicious food and drinks while watching an astonishing view of the city. Umeda Sky Building is a popular date destination among couples as the souvenir shop on the observatory floor sell heart-shaped padlocks which you can engrave your names and lock them at the observatory or take them home as a souvenir.

▶ Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory Tickets

Map: http://bit.ly/2BelLWK

11. Experience beachfront fun and relaxation at the spacious Sennan Long Park

Sennan Long Park (泉南ロングパーク) , also known as Sennan Rinku Park, opened in the seaside area of Sennan City, on the opposite shore of Kansai International Airport in 2020 as a modern nature spot in Osaka. The large recreation park offers a range of facilities and activities including palm tree lined promenade, beach, playground, sports facilities, cafes, onsen and glamping site. Many events are also held at the park including food festivals, live concerts and fireworks.

The tropical beach park is divided into four areas: the Activity Area for sports, the Community Area for BBQ and restaurants, the Marché Area for fresh seafood from Okadaura Fishing Port and the Glamping Area for staying in the luxury villas. The park is bordered by Sennan Marble Beach and Tarui Southern Beach, which are listed on the 100 best sunset spots in Japan.

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/jLb5bmsRqsHgKaU87

12. Discover the unique Namba Yasaka Shrine, featuring a massive lion head shaped statue

One of the most unique and photo-worthy shrines in Japan, Namba Yasaka Shrine (難波八阪神社) is located in the Namba district. It’s often called “the Lion Shrine” as it features Ema-Den, a massive lion head shaped building with its mouth wide open. The lion head measures 12 m high and 11 m wide and  became a popular photo spot in Osaka over the past years. Inside the lion month is a stage where several shrine events are held through the year.

The shrine has been worshipped as the tutelary deity of the Namba district, yet has no remaining records of original establishment. It is believed that the wide-opened mouth of the lion swallows up evil spirits of worshippers and calls for victory and success. Namba Yasaka Shrine is accessible from the city center of Osaka (only 15 mins walk from the popular Dotonbori area).

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/HZoituDpuG6HGfmQA

13. Experience the tranquility and beauty of traditional Japanese tea

Green tea is one of the most facinating things about Japanese culture and a top tourist attraction today. The taste and health benefits of Japanese green tea are well recognised and highly praised worldwide, and this is one thing that shouldn’t be missed out while travelling in Japan. There are various ways to experience Japanese green tea such as tea plantation, tea ceremony, green tea cafes and matcha desserts, and they can be enjoyed here in Osaka, too.

An interesting fact is that tea was once cultivated in Osaka in the area called Chayamadai in Sakai City. Sakai City is a birthplace of the legendary Japanese tea master Sen no Rikyu, and there is Sen no Rikyu Chanoyu (Tea Ceremony) Museum where you can learn about the history and experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Although there is no longer commercial tea cultivation in Osaka, there are still some tea-related facilities remaining in the city such as tea trees in Osaka Castle Park and a tea garden in Osaka Expo Park.

If you are a green tea lover, you should definitely join a traditional tea ceremony, which is dates back hundreds of years and is the most idealistic pastime of ancient Japan. airKitchen introduces various tea ceremony classes available in Osaka where you can learn how to prepare matcha tea and some classes offer also wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) making that goes along with the tea. Classes are usually guided in English and give you a great opportunity to learn about Japanese culture through the experience with local hosts!

Check more tea ceremony classes available in Osaka today ▶ Book Online: Best Osaka Tea Ceremony Classes

14. Hop between bars and enjoy the nightlife of Osaka

Osaka is one of the best cities in Japan when it comes to nightlife . To enjoy the city of Osaka to the fullest, you should definitely try something really fun at night! There are several great drinking spots and Izakaya alleys in Osaka where you can experience authentic and wonderful nightlife.

One of the greatest ways to explore the rich food culture of Osaka is joining a local food tour. There are many types of food tours available today, and bar hopping is highly recommended to experience the  nightlife of Japanese people. There are numbers of hidden drinking spots in Osaka that are not on guidebooks, but you may be able to visit some of off-the-beaten-track places with a local expert!

The Osaka Bar Hopping Nightlife Tour is a highly recommended bar hopping tour that takes you on a journey of exploring Osaka’s nightlife with a friendly local guide. Through the tour, you can try various delicious Izakaya food and drinks by hopping several Izakaya bars in popular areas such as Hozenji Yokocho Alley (法善寺横丁) , the old-fashioned drink alley near Dotonbori area.

For more fun activities in Osaka at night, please check this out ▶ Best Things to Do in Osaka at Night

15. teamLab Botanical Garden: Immerse yourself in the Digital Art Space

The digital art museums of teamLab have been taken the world by storm in recent years, and following the huge success with the two museums in Tokyo (teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets), teamLab’s new “permanent” venue has opened in Osaka recently.

The teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka (チームラボ ボタニカルガーデン 大阪) is an open-air museum located at the botanical garden inside Nagai Park, one of the largest parks in Osaka with a space of 240,000 sqm. The botanical garden is open during the day and turns into the digital art museum once it gets dark. The teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka consists of 6 areas with various digital art works which interactively changing according to the behavior of nature and the presence of people. As the museum has been extremely popular since opening in 2022, it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance!

▶ Book teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Ticket

16. Take in the stunning views from the observation deck of Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harukas (あべのハルカス) is a 300m tall multi-purpose commercial building opened in 2014, which consists of 62 floors with shops, restaurants, museum, hotel, office, etc. It’s the tallest building in Osaka and one of the most popular landmarks in the city. The 300 m tall skyscraper has an observatory “Harukas 300” on 58–60 floors, offering the panoramic view of Osaka City from glass-enclosed and open-air spaces, which is especially recommended to visit at night.

One of the largest department stores in Japan, Kintetsu Department Store Main Store Abeno Harukas spans from B2 to 14th floor of the building, consisting of shops, restaurants and service facilities with a wide range of products including luxury brands, beauty items, souvenirs, grocery, etc, in a sales area of approx 100,000 sqm in total. The Foreign Customer’s Salon is located on 3.5F of the Wing Building, providing various useful services to foreign visitors including English guide, luggage storage, delivery service and free Wi-Fi.

Abeno Harukas has a great accessibility as it can be accessed directly from both Osaka Abenobashi Station and Tennoji Station. There are many tourist attractions in the neighbourhood including Shitennoji Temple, Tennoji Zoo and Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, and the Shinsekai distric is also situated nearby.

▶ Book e-tickets to Harukas 300 Observatory Now!

17. Delight in the flavors of Osaka’s Kitchen at the vibrant Kuromon Market

Kuromon Market or Kuromon Ichiba (黒門市場) is one of the largest markets in Western Japan, located in Minami area in central Osaka. The market has over 190 years history and has been adored by locals as “Osaka’s Kitchen”. The covered market stretches about 580m and consists of approx 150 stores selling a wide variety of food products including fresh seafood, meat, vegetables, fruits, pickled food, dried food, sweets, street food and souvenirs. There are also some rare products such as blow fish and soft shelled turtle.

Kuromon Market is always crowded by locals and tourists, and also many professional chefs come here to shop quality ingredients. It’s also the best spot to enjoy authentic street foods of Osaka. If you wish to explore Osaka’s food culture deeper, Kuromon Market is the right place to visit.

18. Visit the historic and revered Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji Temple (四天王寺) is one of the oldest Buddhist temples existing in Japan today. It’s also known as Arahakaji, Nanbaji, or Mitsuji. The temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 593 and regarded as the first and the oldest Buddhist temple in the country to be administered officially in Japan. The temple complex has been destroyed from disasters and wars and rebuilt over the centuries with the last reconstruction which took place in 1963.

The large temple complex consists of gates, halls, a five-story pagoda, cemetery and museum. It also owns a beautiful Japanese garden “Gokuraku-jodo Garden”, and is home to numbers of national treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Shitennoji is located in Tennoji area, which is close to many popular tourist attractions including Abeno Harukas, Shinsekai district and Tennoji Zoo.

19. Get up close with animals at Osaka Tennoji Zoo

Tennoji is the Osaka’s town famed for Osaka Tennoji Zoo (天王寺動物園) , the large zoo with a long and distinguished history. It’s the third oldest zoo in Japan after Ueno Zoo in Tokyo and Kyoto City Zoo in Kyoto, and has been loved by both locals and tourists since opening in 1915. The zoo is home to about 1,000 animals of about 200 species and recreates natural habitats as far as possible. You can meet hippopotamuses and lions in African Savanna Zone; deer and chimpanzees in Asian Tropical Rainforest Zone; polar bears and black swans in Aviary Zone.

Tennoji Zoo is located inside Tennoji Park which consists of several other facilities and establishments including a greenhouse, Osaka Municipal Museum of Art, a Japanese landscape garden Keitaku-en, Chausuyama Tomb and Tenshiba Ina a new lawn area with shops, cafes, futsal court and a variety of activities. There are several notable tourist attractions nearby such as Shinsekai district, Shitennoji Temple and Abeno Harukas.

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/iUW5yoEbCsc8cZQA7

20. Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, one of the greatest shrines in Japan

Sumiyoshi Taish Shrine (住吉大社) or Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan located south of central Osaka. According to the old Japanese chronicles, the ancient shrine was founded in the 3rd century before the arrival of Buddhism from China. It’s the most is the most important shrine of the many Sumiyoshi shrines located across the country. The unique style of shrine architecture is known as the Sumiyoshi-zukuri.

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is a popular shrine to visit among Western Japan residents for Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. The shrine invites over 2 million visitors in the first 3 days of every year, making it one of the most visited shrines of all Japan. For Hatsumode, people wait in a long line before tossing a coin and giving a first prayer for good fortune for a new year.

21. Explore the beautiful gardens and exhibitions at Osaka Expo Park

Osaka Expo Park (万博記念公園) is a large park located about 20 km away from the central area of Osaka. The park was originally founded in 1970 as the site of Osaka Expo ’70, and now it’s a popular sightseeing spot. It’s best known for the symbolic “the Tower of the Sun (太陽の塔)” created by the famous Japanese artist, Taro Okamoto. The park has about 264 ha of space with lawn, forest, and education and recreation facilities.

The Natural and Cultural Gardens where pavilions were placed during the expo, is now the area filled with nature with large lawn, over 470,000 trees and a wide variety of seasonal flowers. There is also a large Japanese Garden with landscape garden, pond, waterfall, rock garden teahouse, historic buildings, etc, in a 26 ha space. The garden expresses the passage of time in four eras: the ancient period, the medieval period, the early modern period and the modern time.

Osaka Expo Park is a popular place to visit especially during cherry blossoms and autumn leaves viewing seasons, and you can relax and enjoy the tranquility in rich nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Map: http://bit.ly/2A4Q6Fz

22. Watch Baseball Games (Hanshin Tigers and Orix Buffaloes)

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, and the Japanese professional baseball league runs from March to September annually with numbers of exciting games that can be enjoyed at each stadium. There are two professional baseball teams that are popular among Osaka residents; Hanshin Tigers from the Central League and Orix Buffaloes from the Pacific League.

The Hanshin Tigers is actually based in Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, but has a huge fan base in Osaka. Their home field is Koshien Stadium, which is used for high school baseball tournaments. The team uses Kyocera Dome Osaka as their home field during the period of the high school baseball tournaments.

The Orix Buffaloes, formerly known as Osaka Kintetsu Buffaloes, is based in Osaka City with Kyocera Dome Osaka as their home field. As both teams play in Osaka City, it’s highly recommended to go and enjoy watching the baseball game at the stadium, surrounded by local fans with energetic atmosphere, especially if you are a baseball enthusiast.

23. Embrace the thrill and adventure at Hirakata Park, a popular amusement destination in Osaka

While Universal Studios Japan has been under the spotlight in recent years, Osaka has another fun and beloved amusement park, Hirakata Park (ひらかたパーク) , located in Hirakata City in northeastern Osaka Prefecture. It’s the oldest amusement park in Osaka which was founded in 1910. The park can be accessed easily from both central Osaka and Kyoto.

In a space of 160,000 square metres, the park owns 45 attractions and rides that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages including thrilling roller coasters, Ferris wheel, kids-friendly rides and seasonal attractions including swimming pool in summer and colourful illumination and skating rink in winter. Enjoying a day out at Hirakata Park is one of the best things to do in Osaka for both kids and adults.

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/yqAj9nMqJB7CuFgb9

▶ Book Hirakata Park Admission Ticket

Besides Universal Studios Japan and Hirakata Park, there are more fun and thrilling amusement parks in Osaka ▶ Best Theme Parks in Osaka

24. Experience the excitement of go-karting on the streets of Osaka

Rental Go-Kart is one of the most popular and trending tourist activities in Japan today, and it’s available at several cities including Osaka. It’s the most unique and extraordinary way to explore the city by dressing up in your favourite character’s costume and driving go-karts through the city with friends!

▶ Book Street Go Kart Experience by Akiba Kart Osaka! 

Another great spot in Osaka for car enthusiasts is Amazing Kart ISK Osaka Maishima store, a go-karting circuit with four courses for adults and children. The circuit provides regular karts as well as kids kart, junior karts and 2-seater karts which can be enjoyed from small kids to adults and great fun for families, couples and friends. The site also has a cafe, kids space and nursing room.

25. Visit the Pokemon Cafe Osaka for a fun and playful dining experience

Pokemon Cafe Osaka opened as the second Pokemon Cafe in Japan after Tokyo (and the first one in Western Japan!). The cafe serves a variety of Pokemon themed food, desserts and drinks including seasonal and limited-time items. Besides the special menu, the cafe sells original merchandise that is exclusively available including the tableware that are used in the cafe and Pikachu plush toy in chef, waiter and patisserie costumes.

Pokemon Center DX Osaka has also opened along with the cafe, offering a large selection of Pokemon merchandise products. At the entrance of the shop, there are three life-sized statues of legendary Pokemon characters; Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres, greeting visitors. Both Pokemon Cafe and Pokemon Center are located on the 9th floor of Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store, the large department store in the heart of Shinsaibashi, the vibrant shopping district in Osaka City. It’s a new must-visit spot for every Pokemon fans in Japan!

26. Learn about the ancient history and culture of Osaka at Mozu Tombs

Mozu Tombs (百舌鳥古墳群) are a group of ancient tombs situated in Sakai City, Osaka. The site was designated to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, and ever since then, it became one of the hottest tourist attractions in Japan over the past years.

The tombs (called Kofun in Japanese) are in different shapes and forms such as key-hole, round and rectangular and they were built between 3rd to 6th century. There used to be over 100 of them but only less than half remain today. The largest tomb of all is the Daisenryo Kofun, which is 800m long and 600m wide. The large key-hole shaped tomb is believed to have been built for the late Emperor Nintoku and constructed over 20 years in the mid 5th century.

Next to Daisenryo Kofun, there is Daisen Park offering rich nature and some attractions to visitors such as the Japanese Garden, a picturesque traditional Japanese style garden and the Sakai City Museum where you can learn the history of Sakai City and the tombs.

Map: http://bit.ly/2KF34QQ

27. Hike to the picturesque Minoh Waterfall

Minoh Falls (箕面大滝) is a waterfall with a height of 33 meters. It’s chosen as one of the 100 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. The waterfall is a symbol and a main nature attraction of Minoh Park , a national park located near Itami Airport (Osaka International Airport). The hiking trail in the park is approx 3km long and it takes about 45 mins. You can enjoy the pleasant walk in the nature along the Minoo River until you reach the waterfall.

Minoh Park consists a vast area of 838,000 sqm and is home to various plants and different species of insects and other wildlife. It’s a popular getaway from Osaka City and visitors enjoy hiking and relax in the nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s especially popular during autumn leaves season as the leaves of the forest in the park turn into warm autumn colours and display spectacular scenery.

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/3NC1bjff5JKQ9KyQ9

28. Uncover stunning autumn leaves and invigorating hikes at Hoshida Park

Hoshida Park (ほしだ園地) is a vast park in Katano City, within the forest park Osaka Fumin no Mori, situated near the border with Nara Prefecture. It takes about 1 hour to get to the park from the central area of Osaka. The 105 ha park is one of the most popular hiking spots as well as autumn leaves viewing spots in Osaka Prefecture.

The park is famous for a massive wooden suspension bridge called “Hoshi no Buranko”. The 280 m long bridge is built at 50 m above the ground and surrounded by rich nature. You can enjoy thrilling walk across the bridge with the breathtaking, panoramic view of the beautiful forest. The park has various hiking trails as well as a 16.5 m high rock climbing wall.

29. Celebrate the lively Tenjin Matsuri Festival

Tenjin Matsuri or Tenjin Festival (天神祭) is a must-see traditional summer festival held in Osaka on 24 and 25 July annually. The festival originally started in 10th century to celebrate Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship. It’s counted as one of Japan’s three greatest festivals along with Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo.

Tenjin Matsuri is known for its vibrant and lively parade with music and dance, and breathtaking fireworks. The 2-day festival involves land procession, river procession and a spectacular fireworks display along the river for the grand finale on the second day. The ceremonial processions features traditional music, dancers in costumes and floats, starting from Tenmangu Shrine to Okawa River, taking place through the streets of Osaka.

▶ Check more traditional festivals held in Osaka

30. Admire the dazzling winter illuminations throughout the city

One of the top attractions in Japan during winter is light-up illuminations that take place across the country including Osaka. Spectacular winter illumination can be enjoyed at several locations in Osaka such as the Midosuji Boulevard, Kaiyukan Aquarium, Osaka Castle Park and Universal Studios Japan. Visitors can enjoy the romantic scenery until late night only this time of the year.

Along with the illuminations, Christmas markets will be open at some places during the Christmas season, offering delicious food and Christmas goods with festive decorations and warm lights.

▶ Best Illumination Events in Osaka in Winter

+ Go to Kyoto

Speaking of Western Japan, you can not miss Kyoto along your trip to Osaka. Kyoto and Osaka are two must-visit cities for every first time visitor to Japan, and they are located next to each other. While Osaka offers the unique, energetic and modern culture, Kyoto represents the calm and historic traditional Japanese culture. These two contrasting cities are both very much worth visiting. It very is possible to visit Kyoto from Osaka for a short trip and enjoy the best highlights in one day.

▶ Best Things to Do in Kyoto: Kyoto Bucket List 

These two cities are located next to each other and it’s very convenient to move around. Check out the link below and find out the best way to travel between Osaka and Kyoto.

▶ Transportation Guide: How to Travel between OSAKA and KYOTO

Also if you are planning to explore more in western Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, etc) , you may wanna check out these articles, too!

▶ Western Japan Bucket List

▶ Best Day Trips from Osaka

Travel Tips in Osaka

-wifi and internet access in osaka.

Having internet access during your trip in Japan is essential, and it would be even better with a fast and stable connection. While free WiFi is offers at many places in Japan including hotels, shopping malls and tourist information, it’s highly recommended to rent a pocket WiFi for internet access with faster speed, bigger data and a convenience of using it whenever you like and wherever you are

▶ Best Pocket WiFi in Japan

-Transportation in Osaka

If you are arriving in/departing from airports in Osaka (Kansai International Airport or Osaka International Airport), here are useful tips for how to move between airports and Osaka city. Also if you are planning to visit Tokyo before or after Osaka, you can check the below link to find the best way to travel between Tokyo and Osaka!

▶ How to Get to Osaka from KIX

▶ Ways to Move from Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport)

▶ How to Get to Osaka from Tokyo

If you are thinking of taking a one day trip from Osaka, the best way to get around in Japan is to use the bullet train . In high season tickets can be sold out so we recommend buying them in advance.

▶︎Book now your Shinkansen tickets!

-Itinerary in Osaka

Looking for some ideas for sightseeing in Osaka according to the duration of your stay? If you wish to travel around Osaka smoothly without wasting time, I advice you to plan your trip and decide what to see/where to go in advance. Check out suggested itineraries for 1/2/3 day in Osaka, which may help you to plan your Osaka trip!

▶ 1 Day Itinerary in Osaka

▶ 2 Days Itinerary in Osaka

▶ 3 Days Itinerary in Osaka

-Hidden Gems in Osaka

Have you already been to major tourist sites in Osaka already? Then how about exploring the city’s lesser-known gems that are waiting to be discovered? Osaka offers a lot more than just local delicacies and glittering neon light. From nature spots to amusement facilities, you can check unique and authentic Osaka’s hidden gems from the link below.

▶ Best Hidden Gems in Osaka

-Souvenir Shopping in Osaka

Osaka is one of the best cities in Japan for souvenir shopping as a wide variety of unique and original souvenir products are sold such as regional specialties, Takoyaki flavour snacks and character merchandise at Universal Studios Japan. The tourist center of Osaka, Dotonbori is a great area for shopping as there are many souvenir shops. Don’t miss shopping local products or snacks with “Osaka only flavours”!

▶ What to Buy in Osaka

In case you forget or run out of time to shop souvenirs while travelling in Osaka, don’t worry, the last minute shopping can be done at Kansai Airport (KIX), the second largest airport in Japan that offers a great selection of souvenirs from all around Western Japan.

▶ What to Buy in Kansai International Airport

So how did you enjoy the list?? If you are planning your first visit to Osaka, you should definitely add listed things to do on your bucket list and have a perfect trip in Osaka! Although you may need 2–3 days to see all spots, it is also very possible to see Osaka in one day! For short visit to Osaka, pick the best highlights from this Osaka Bucket List and plan your perfect itinerary in Osaka in one day!

Tourist Information Center Osaka in JR Osaka Station will also give you Osaka itinerary suggestions including top-ranked landmarks, best-kept secrets and insider tips for Osaka sightseeing.

For first-time visitors, this 1-day Osaka tour is highly recommended to join. A professional guide will take you to several must-visit spots including Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, Dotonbori and Umeda Sky Building. Let’s explore Osaka efficiently in a day!

<< Check more details about Osaka Highlights Private Walking Tour! >>

▽Check out more Bucket Lists in other popular areas in Japan!▽

For more ideas about travelling in and around Osaka, please check out my other articles listed below, too!

▶︎ 15 Best Places to Visit in Osaka ▶︎ How to Get to Osaka from Tokyo ▶︎ 10 Best Activities in Osaka

▽Related Articles▽

▶︎ 1 Week Itinerary: the Very Best of Japan for First Timers ▶︎ Tokyo vs Osaka: Which One Should You Travel?? ▶️ 3 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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35 Exciting Things to Do in Osaka, Japan

Home » Blog » Japan » 35 Exciting Things to Do in Osaka, Japan

Osaka is known for lively nightlife and endless street food, but there’s more hiding beneath this city’s neon-lit facade. We’re going to walk you through the best things to do in Osaka — from can’t-miss attractions to some lesser-known secrets that you won’t find in guidebooks!

Known for vibrant nightlife, approachable locals, and a fantastic food scene, Osaka is a popular spot on most Japan itineraries. 

Truth time: When we plan trips, big cities aren’t usually the spots we most look forward to visiting. And honestly, we didn’t really expect to like Osaka (aka Japan’s third largest city !) all that much.

Osaka lacks the old world charm you’ll find in Kyoto , and it’s not as flashy as Tokyo. But what it lacks in glamour and beauty it makes up in character. Osaka is friendly and laid-back , and we ended up liking it much more than we expected initially.

In this article, we’re sharing all the best things to do in Osaka; from the famous must-see Osaka attractions, to tours that are absolutely worth the price tag, to some hidden spots you won’t find in the guidebooks.

We’re also going over where to stay in Osaka, and covering how to get around in this sprawling city. Hint: it’s easier than you may think!

This Osaka guide packs in everything you need in one place. So whether you’re in the beginning stages of planning your trip to Japan or you’re in Osaka as you’re reading this right now (yay!), be sure to save this article for easy access during your trip.

Osaka Travel Guide

• Our experience: Osaka travel video
• What to Do in Osaka
• What to Eat in Osaka
• Getting around Osaka

Where to Stay in Osaka

• Round up of things to do in Osaka

Planning a trip to Japan? Find out the  best time to visit Japan  based on seasonal weather patterns and your personal travel style.

Top things to do in Osaka

If you’re looking for the  very best  things to do in Osaka, here are our top recommendations: 

• Explore Dotonbori at night
• Take a cooking class
• Go on a walking tour 
• Visit the Shiteno-ji Temple
• Go Izakaya hopping
• Check out the teamLab Botanical Gardens
• Explore Minoo Park

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Tokyo. 

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

Sign up for our  ultimate Japan packing list  now and get a copy sent straight to your inbox.

1. Explore Dotonbori at night

Known for its ever-glowing neon lights, thick crowds, and endless food options, a visit to this lively district should definitely be part of your Osaka itinerary. To get the full experience, be sure to get there after the sun goes down and the lights shine brightest. There is a palpable buzz to this place, and your senses will be on overdrive. Walk up the main drag, sample food along the way, sit down and people-watch.

While in Dotonbori, stop into Don Quijote, which is a famous Japanese discount store chain that sells literally  everything  you could ever need. Just walking inside one of these stores is an experience in itself, and the Dotonbori location even has a ferris wheel inside!

Oh, and do the Japanese thing and take a photo with “Glico Man”, the runner depicted on a neon billboard crossing a finish line. This iconic image was installed in 1935 by a candy company (Glico), and it is now the symbol of Osaka amongst Japanese people.

Insider Tip:  While you’re in the area, wander off the main path and through narrow streets towards Hozen-ji Yokocho, an alleyway that still retains traditional charm and is much quieter than Dotonbori’s main drag. Be sure to pause at the lantern-lit Hozen-ji temple, for which this alley gets its name.

2. Take a cooking class

If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you might know that  we love taking cooking classes on our travels , and have taken courses in 12 countries around the world (and counting!). In fact, we took a sushi-making class the last time we were in Japan.

We think a good cooking class can give you a unique opportunity to spend time with a local, ask questions, and learn. Also, food is such an integral part of a country’s culture that taking a cooking class will give you a perspective you might otherwise miss.

Many of the cooking classes we’ve taken are half-day affairs, with visits to local markets and preparing multiple dishes from scratch. However, this ramen-making class took just 2 hours, which was fine with us considering we had a pretty packed schedule in Osaka.

Our hosts were very sweet and explained the  different types of ramen  (there are a lot!). We made three different types of ramen and made everything — from the noodles to the broth — from scratch.

Note for vegetarian travelers:  This cooking class can be adapted for vegetarians and vegans.

One thing I will mention is that while it was really fun to make our own ramen from scratch, it is not a dish that average Japanese people will make for themselves. They’ll typically go to a ramen shop instead of cooking this dish from scratch at home. 

Do it yourself:  Book the  same ramen-making class we did , or browse other  cooking classes in Osaka .

Note:  We were hosted by Sakura Cook in our ramen-making class, but all opinions are our own.

3. Go on a walking tour 

One of our favorite things to do when we travel to a new city is to take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get your bearings in a new place, get a taste for local culture and some useful recommendations. 

This walking tour of the Shinsekai/Dotonbori neighborhoods comes highly recommended with great reviews. 

Osaka native, Masa, is your guide for this tour, which combines a bit of history, food, and sightseeing with insider knowledge of the real Osaka—the side tourists don’t typically see. 

What you need to know:

• Meeting location: Shinsekai neighborhood  
• Price: from $37 USD per person
• Duration: 2 hours

What guests are saying:

“Masaaki was very enthusiastic in showing us his Osaka and patiently answered all our questions! A must do if you ever visit Osaka! Learnt a lot more about Japanese culture.” – Howard, December 2022

4. Visit the Shiteno-ji Temple

One of the oldest temples in Japan and the most important Buddhist structure in Osaka, the Shitenoji Temple is a good place to get a glimpse into the country’s religion.

This temple was originally built in the 6th century by Prince Shotoku as a way to help promote the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. Over the centuries, Shitenoji has endured several fires and has been reconstructed to reflect the original design.

Cost:  It’s free to enter the main temple grounds, but there are small fees for two of the onsite attractions:

• Gokuraku-jodo Garden:  300 yen
• Treasure House:  500 yen; you can see historic paintings and writings displayed

How to get here:  Shitennoji is a short walk from Shitennoji-mae-Yuhigaoka Station on the Tanimachi Subway Line. Alternatively, it can be reached in a ten-minute walk north of JR Tennoji Station on the JR Loop Line.

5. Go Izakaya Hopping

Let’s start by defining what the heck an  izakaya  actually is.

Izakaya:  small bar that serves drinks and small dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Sometimes izakayas have just a handful of seats, and other times they have a second floor with more seating. But one of their defining features is that they are  cozy,  they serve drinks and small dishes, and they are are good places to soak up local ambiance .

Izakayas are uniquely Japanese, and a fun thing to do in Osaka during your visit. You’ll be surrounded by locals and have the opportunity to absorb this special atmosphere.

Want some tips on what to order in an izakaya? The menus are often written in Japanese, which can make things a bit tricky. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a  guide to ordering at an izakaya !

Magical Trip Bar Hopping Tour

If you’re traveling solo or want a local with you on your first izakaya experience, consider booking a bar hopping tour with Magical Trip.

Is it worthwhile?

Short answer:  Maybe…

Long answer: We did a bar hopping tour with Magical Trips, and we’re gonna be honest: In our opinion, the tour was just  okay.  Our guides were nice, but didn’t give us all that much information that we didn’t already know, so we felt like we could have had a very similar experience on our own without paying the price of the tour.

That said, we’ve traveled in Japan before and feel confident stepping into izakayas on our own. And I will admit, it can be a bit intimidating entering your first izakaya because most of the time the menus are in Japanese.

So if it’s your first time in Japan or you’re traveling solo and want some company, having a local with you (and potentially some other travelers) can make the experience a bit more comfortable and fun.

Book your own tour:  Check out  Magical Trip’s different tour options in Osaka .

Insider Tip:  Have you seen the Netflix series “Street Food”? Totally recommend checking it out if you haven’t already. If you have time, visit  Toyo , the izakaya featured in the Osaka episode. Known for tuna cheek, crab, and fatty tuna rolls (amongst other seafood-based dishes), it’s a good idea to arrive early. We’ve heard that the tuna cheek often sells out within an hour of opening! In addition to fantastic food ( read the reviews! ), the owner (and chef) is energetic, hilarious, and charming, and another reason to make the visit. Toyo is located in the Miyakojima area, which is northeast of the city center. It is just off the JR Tozai line, which is convenient if you have the pass!

6. Check out the teamLab Botanical Gardens

You’ve heard of teamLab Borderless , the ultra-popular digital art museum in Tokyo. But what if we told you you could get a taste of the teamLab magic in Osaka?

As of July 2022, teamLab has opened a new exhibit at the Nagai Botanical Garden in Osaka. The project, called Digitized Nature, explores the concept of turning nature into art using non-material digital technology that won’t harm the plants.  

A botanical garden during the day and art space by night, this is easily one of the coolest new things to do in Osaka since tourism is back! Check their official website for more details and snag your skip the line entry ticket online ahead of time. 

7. Explore Minoo Park

After a couple days of weaving through crowded city streets, we were craving some time in nature. We did a little research and found that just 45 minutes north of the city center sits a nature lover’s oasis.

With a paved walking path that leads through forested mountains to a waterfall, this park is a popular spot for local couples and families to escape city life on a day trip from Osaka . 

The path is mostly flat(ish), and it takes around 45 minutes to get to the waterfall, which marks the end of the path. You’ll find stalls selling snacks as well as a few restrooms along the way.

We have a complete Minoo Park guide with everything you need to know, including how to get there, things to do, and a fun foodie experience you won’t find in many places in Japan.

Minoh Park: Osaka’s Best Kept Secret

Nestled in the mountains less than an hour from Osaka, Minoo Park offers a quick and easy escape from the city into nature. This guide has everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit.

8. Play Pachinko

Imagine a snazzy Vegas slot machine got drunk and got friendly with a pinball machine… their baby (weird analogy, I know) would be pachinko!

Sparkly, loud, flashy, and a bit confusing, you’ll find these popular Japanese gaming machines all around the country. From small venues in rural towns to the ostentatious establishments in major cities, there’s no denying pachinko is a big deal in Japan. While its popularity is on the decline,  pachinko is still a billion dollar industry . 

Even though it’s not actually gambling, the pachinko parlors have a similar atmosphere as a smoky Las Vegas casino. Gambling is actually illegal in Japan, so instead of winning money, you get… wait for it… SILVER BALLS! These metal balls can be used to continue playing or to “purchase” items like Pocky Sticks, Pringles, stuffed animals, plastic toys; and if you collect enough balls, even some electronics.

It kind of reminds me of the prizes at the roller rinks I went to in elementary school. Yet pachinko parlors are mostly packed with middle aged men. Strange, I know.

To be honest, I don’t quite understand the hype. But then again, I’m not really into slot machines or arcades, so I might not be the best judge. And while it’s certainly not a pastime I could see myself getting into, I am glad I tried it out. It’s just one of those  so-completely-Japanaese  things you just have to try. Plus, it’s cheap, so why not?!

Wander through the streets in Dotonbori and you’re sure to find a pachinko parlor (or 10), or stop into one while exploring some of the less touristy neighborhoods in Osaka.

Do it yourself:  Round One is a spot that’s popular with locals, and is conveniently in the Dotonbori area. In addition to pachinko, you’ll find lots of other arcade games, bowling, and even ice skating. You can also find pachinko parlors all around Dotonbori; just look for large signs that say “pachinko”!

Oh, and while we’re on the topic, here are the instructions for playing this game. Hopefully you won’t be quite as confused as we were our first try!

Pachinko instructions:

• Insert money and press play (玉貸).
• Turn the round lever, which shoots out small metal balls. The further you turn the handle, the stronger the balls will shoot. Start by just barely turning the lever until you get a feel for it, and keep it turned so balls continue to shoot.
• Aim the balls at the gaps in the pegs. Your goal is to make them go into the small hole in the center of the game board.  Tip: Many players claim that the top left corner is the best spot to aim.
• When you get the ball into the proper hole, you will be rewarded with a celebratory “ding-ding-ding” and more balls to play with (or cash in for prizes).

9. Discover the Retro Shinsekai Neighborhood

Stroll down the streets of the Shinsekai neighborhood, and with a little imagination, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. This is arguably one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Osaka, and exploring it will show you a different side of the city than you’ll find in the modern center.

Wandering around this area might feel oddly familiar, and there’s a reason for that. The centerpiece of this neighborhood, Tsutenkaku Tower, was modeled after the Eiffel Tower, and the southern part of the neighborhood was constructed to look like Coney Island.  

For the best atmosphere, arrive around dusk so you can see this area come alive as the sun goes down, with neon lights, loud pachinko parlors, karaoke bars, and cheap eateries.

To fully appreciate this area you have to understand the history, so we’ll give you a quickie history lesson.

History lesson brought to you by Two Wandering Soles:

At the beginning of the 1900’s, Japan experienced an economic boom, and in order to showcase this affluence for the rest of the world to see, Shinsekai was created in 1912, and crowds flocked to this modern neighborhood.

Literally translating to “New World”, Shinsekai was built to imitate two of the world’s most famous cities at the time: Paris and New York City. There was even an amusement park in the neighborhood in case anyone was unaware of the prosperous state of the country.

However, it didn’t last long. After World War II, poverty was felt around the whole country, and the Shinsekai neighborhood was a shining example. The amusement park was closed and the Tsutenkaku Tower was scrapped for metal. This neighborhood was all but forgotten, except for those too poor to live elsewhere.

Today, Shinsekai has seen a resurgence of visitors and businesses are once again thriving. However, many of them retain the same look as they did in decades past, giving this area a palpable feeling of nostalgia.

Good to know:  In years past, locals have referred to Shinsekai as being  dangerous , however, that stigma is quickly changing. Although the neighborhood still retains its seediness (in a weirdly charming way!), there’s no reason to be worried about visiting Shinsekai.

Things to Do in Shinsekai

• Known as the God of Happiness or “Things as they ought to be”, Billiken is said to bring you good luck if you rub his feet.

• Eat kushikatsu:  Shinsekai is said to be the place where kushikatsu was invented as an inexpensive yet filling food. There are tons of restaurants serving up these deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers for cheap (some starting at under 100 yen per skewer).

• Play old school pachinko:  If you want a unique place to try out pachinko, test your skills at  Smartball New Star , which has a totally retro feel unlike the more modern machines you’ll find elsewhere in the city.
• Soak at Spa World:  This huge public bath is divided into Asian spas and European-inspired spas, separated by gender. Entrance costs 1200 yen on weekdays and 1500 yen on weekends and holidays.
• Get a view at the top of the Tsutenkaku Tower:  Entrance costs 700 yen, and at the top there are sweeping views of the city.

• Glimpse the famous blowfish lantern:  This neighborhood has a handful of restaurants that specialize in  fugu , or pufferfish. It must be prepared by a highly-skilled chef because if not cut properly, it can be poisonous. This is a very expensive dish, but if your budget and curiosity allows, Shinsekai is a good place to give it a try.

How to get there:  Shinsekai is a short walk from many train stations: Shin-Imamiya (JR Loop Line); Ebisucho (Sakaisuji Line); Dobutsuen-mae (Midosuji/Sakaisuji Lines).

10. Strike a pose in a Purikura (aka Japanese photo booth)

Just like many things, Japan does photo booths  cuter  than the rest of the world.  Purikura,  or Japanese photo booths, don’t just print off a strip of 4 photos and call it good. No, they go above and beyond.

After striking a handful of poses, you will exit the photo booth. And this is where the fun begins…

You’ll get to choose your favorite photos and edit them all with filters. You can enlarge your eyes, shrink your nose, or do whatever strikes your fancy. Add makeup (Ben got really into this part!) and stickers until you’ve had enough, or until the timer goes off! Yep, that’s right… this whole thing is timed, so part of this experience is rushing to get it all done before the time runs out!

At the end, you’re left with a fun (and cheap!) souvenir. Just be warned that the photos print out quite small, and you’ll only get one copy, so if you’re with a partner you may want to go back in again so you each get a keepsake!

After we were finished, it asked for our email address and I was stoked to get the photos digitally… or so I thought. It turned out I was sent a link to our watermarked photos and a place to pay (more money) for access to them.  Womp womp.

Cost:  Prices may range, but the one we did cost 400 yen.

11. Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel

For some of the best views in the city, head to Tempozan Harbor Village to ride one of the tallest ferris wheels in the world. 

In 1997, when the Tempozan Ferris Wheel first opened to the public, it was the tallest ferris wheel in the world. Since then a few others have crept up surpassing the Tempozan in height. However, this ride is still one-of-a-kind. 

The 17-minute ride offers unparalleled views of Osaka Bay and the surrounding areas. During your rotation, catch a glimpse of the Akashi Kaikyō suspension bridge over the harbor, Mount Ikoma to the east, and the Rokko Mountains to the north. 

Hours & Cost: The ferris wheel is open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (last entrance is at 9:30 p.m.) and tickets cost just 800 yen (about $6 USD) to ride. 

12. Visit the Osaka Castle

Situated in the midst of this bustling city, the Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s iconic landmarks and a must on most travelers’ itineraries. Cross over not one — but two! — moats to reach the castle grounds, which you can explore free of charge.

If you want to enter the castle, you’ll need to pay a 600 yen entry fee. The interior has been turned into a museum and, in our opinions, was a bit underwhelming.

The best part of the 600 yen admission (for us) was the observation deck on the 8th floor. It offers nice 360-degree views over the city.

Nishinomaru Garden

Surrounding the castle lies the Nishinomaru Gardens, which are one of the most popular spots in the city for  cherry blossom viewing in the springtime . It also offers nice views of the castle and lots of green space that is nice any time of year.

• Entrance fee:  200 yen (or 350 yen during the extended hours of the cherry blossom season)

Insider Tip:  Next to the castle is the Miraiza building which has bathrooms and shops. On the top level is the Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace, which has great views overlooking the castle. It costs 1000 yen to enter (which includes a free drink). Or if you show your Osaka Castle ticket (or a receipt from one of the stores in the complex below the restaurant), you can enter for free as long as you purchase one drink (500 yen). After reading reviews, we’d probably skip the food and just order drinks here. Note that they are closed every day from 4-6 p.m. to prepare for diner service, so you’ll need to plan on coming between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. if you just want a drink and a view.

Cost:  Free to enter castle grounds; 600 yen admission to enter the castle; 200 yen to enter the Nishinomaru Gardens (350 yen during cherry blossom viewing)

Hours:  Castle and garden hours are the same — 9:00 to 5:00 p.m. (entrance until 4:30); extended hours on holidays

How to get there:  The closest station is Tanimachi Yonchome Station along the Tanimachi and Chuo subway lines. And the closest JR station is Osakajokoen Station on the JR Loop Line.

13. Snap a photo in front of the Namba Yasaka Shrine

In the bustling heart of Osaka’s Namba neighborhood, just an 8-minute walk from the busy Nankai Station, is a buddhist shrine unlike anything you’d expect. Famous for its lion head-shaped building and cherry blossom trees dotting the grounds, Namba Yasaka is one of Osaka’s most distinctive shrines. 

The Namba Yasaka Shrine is part of a former complex of Buddhist temples that were burned down in air raids during WWII. The Lion’s Head was built in 1975 and has a distinctly retro look, like something you might see in a theme park. 

The mouth of the lion is believed to swallow evil spirits and bring good luck, especially in matters of school and business. For this reason, many people visit Namba Yasaka during exam time or at the start and end of financial years. 

14. Go on a food tour

Osaka is  known  for food, and it would be a shame not to stuff your belly with as much as possible in this foodie paradise.

You can try wandering around the streets and let your nose guide the way, but if you want to sample the best local dishes and learn all about local foodie culture, you’ll be impressed with Arigato’s Osaka food tours. We sure were!

We’ve taken a lot of food tours around the world and we love eating, so we kind of consider ourselves experts in this realm. And we can say that Arigato puts on one hell of a food tour. The price tag isn’t exactly cheap, but the amount of food and the quality of service was well worth it, in our opinions.

Not only did we get to sample a ton of different foods, but we learned more in this tour — about food, culture, and history — than we did in any other tour in Japan.

Do it yourself:  Book the same  tour we did with Arigato , or browse the rest of their Osaka tour offerings.

Note:  We were hosted by Arigato on the Shinsekai Food Tour, but all opinions are our own.

15. Catch a baseball game 

Take me out to the Japanese ball game… not a tune you’d expect to hear this far from the United States, amIright?

In fact, baseball has been a popular pastime in Japan since post-WWII time. The Hanshin Tigers are one of Japan’s oldest baseball clubs, based in Osaka and consisting of players from Japan and all over the world. 

You can catch the Tigers playing at Hanshin Koshien Stadium just outside of central Osaka. Check out the team’s official website (in English!) to view their schedule and purchase tickets.

16. Relax at a public bath

If dropping your clothes in front of strangers sounds like something that would be out of your comfort zone, you’re not alone. 

However, onsens and public baths are a huge part of Japanese culture, and are part of most people’s weekly routines. So if you think you can handle it, visiting one is a unique (and maybe even enjoyable!) experience.

Once you get over the whole being naked in public thing — yeah, it used to be of my nightmares too! — you’ll find that nobody else actually cares that you’re naked. And after a while you might even find it  relaxing  — gasp! 

Here are a couple things to keep in mind at public baths: 

• If you have tattoos, check their policy ahead of time. Some are lenient while others are strict.
• Baths are typically gender-separated, with the exception of some foot baths. If you come with a partner of the opposite sex, come up with a meeting time.
• You must shower before you get into the bath.
• Some of the larger baths are open almost 24 hours. It’s not uncommon for them to close for a couple hours from 8-10 a.m. for cleaning, but to be open the rest of the night. 

There are a lot of public baths and onsens in Osaka. Each neighborhood has their own “local bath”. But if you want to have several different places to soak,  Spa World  is a good option!

17. Have drinks at a speakeasy

We’re going to let you in on an Osaka secret, so listen up… 

There is a super cool speakeasy bar hidden in a residential building that you’d never know was there if you were just walking past. The windows are boarded up and the stairwell looks uninviting. 

But if you do make it to this spot , you’ll find a dimly lit space with just 20 seats and a hushed atmosphere that lets you know you’ve found something special.

Psst! You’ll find it on the 5th floor, and getting there requires the use of a trap door…

There is no menu. Instead, you’ll tell the bartender what flavors you like (spicy, fruity, smoky, etc.) as well as your preferred liquor, and be prepared to be impressed.

We loved everything about this place. Except the cigarette smoke, which is pretty thick. But that’s just how it is everywhere you go in Japan.

We almost don’t want to spill this secret, but it’s such a cool spot that we couldn’t help sharing it with you!

How much does it cost?  As we mentioned, there is no menu. So you’re kind of ordering blindly without knowing the price of the drinks. To give you an idea of what to expect, our total bill for 2 drinks (one with gin and one with whiskey) was 2700 yen ($25.50 USD). 

18. Wander the Kuromon Ichiba Market

This covered market is where chefs and home cooks come for the freshest local ingredients, earning it the nickname “Osaka’s kitchen”.

Not only will you find stalls selling fresh seafood and produce, but you’ll find shops serving up fresh food made on the spot, like noodles, curries and takoyaki.

Wander past the stalls, sample some dishes, and observe locals on their morning grocery runs.

How to get here:  This famous market is a short walk from both Nippombashi and Kintetsu Nippombashi stations.

19. Learn to roll your own sushi

Sometimes referred to as the “kitchen of Japan,” Osaka is a great place to dive into the Japanese food scene . This unique sushi experience will teach you how to make deco-rolled sushi, which of course you get to eat afterwards!

Your host Toko is well-practiced in the art of deco-rolled sushi, which is sushi with cute designs like animal faces in case you were wondering (don’t worry—I didn’t know what it was either!). She has been running a cooking school out of her home in Osaka for over 2 years. 

During the 2 hour experience, Toko is happy to answer any questions you have about the art of sushi making as well as about local life in Osaka.  

• Meeting location: Nakazakicyo neighborhood
• Price: from $30 USD per person

“My group of 4 people had an amazing time making sushi with Toko. We all had way more fun than we expected and the sushi was really good. I would recommend everyone try this experience while in Osaka.” – Antonio, March 2020

20. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony

Many travelers come to Japan hoping to participate in a traditional tea ceremony and Osaka is a great place to do so. In this traditional experience , you’ll first be guided to pick out a traditional kimono (in the particular style for men, women, boy or girls) so you can dress the part. 

The ceremony commences in an ancient-style Japanese tea ceremony room where you’ll make your own Matcha tea and learn some of the rituals while discussing Japanese culture. Photos are encouraged after the ceremony. 

• Meeting location: Osaka
• Price: from $49 USD per person
• Duration: 1 hour

“A truly wonderful experience! The tea ceremony was a great insight into Japanese history and culture and all the tea masters were friendly and thoughtful. A must do if you are in Osaka!!” – Mia, January 2020

21. Stay in a capsule hotel

Capsule hotels were created in the late 1970’s as an affordable way for people — often times businessmen traveling for work — to spend the night in the ultra-crowded city centers of Japan. Now, staying in a capsule, or “pod hotel”, is a popular thing for tourists to do while traveling in Japan.

At their most basic, capsules are roughly just enough space for a bed, and have room for guests to crawl and sit, but not stand, which might make this a deal-breaker for anyone who is claustrophobic.

Capsule hotels also typically provide pajamas and toiletries, and are most often separated by gender. There are shared bathroom facilities as well as a common space, though they tend to be much less social than hostels.

With the popularity of pod hotels on the rise, there are much more luxurious, and dare I say  spacious , options.

Fun fact:  The very first capsule hotel in the world was in Osaka, so this city is the perfect place to try it for yourself.

Capsule Hotel:  Hotel Cargo

Staying in a capsule hotel is one Japanese experience we figured we should probably try for ourselves. So even though it meant that we would need to spend the night apart —  I know, I know, we’re gross and mushy-gushy!  — we decided to book 2 separate capsules.

We opted to pay a bit more for one of the higher-rated capsules, and we were impressed with how comfortable it was.

The pods at Hotel Cargo are designed like tiny rooms: You can’t stand, but otherwise it seems like everything you’ll have in a normal hotel room: vanity, tv, trash can, even a mini closet. And the bathroom and showers have all the toiletries you could need.

22. People-watch in the Shinsaibashi shopping district

This shopping district is crazy busy at just about all hours of the day (or night!). To be honest, strolling down this covered shopping street gave me a bit of anxiety because of the thick crowds, but it’s just one of those places you need to see!

Pause for a moment and watch life undulating all around you. And this is a good chance to do a little souvenir shopping.

While you’re in the area, be sure to venture just off the main covered path to Amerikamura. This is another shopping district known for American brands, expat-run shops and a mini Statue of Liberty. This area is a popular hangout for young Osakans as well as foreigners.

23. Cup Noodle Museum

This museum is free to enter, and is one of those “only in Japan” experiences. Explore the different exhibits that range from the history of cup noodles, to the manufacturing process, to different versions you can find around the world, to a Cup Noodle theater!

And for 300 yen, you can even make your own Cup Noodle by designing the packaging and choosing your own toppings and flavorings.

While it’s certainly not the  freshest ramen you’ll have in Japan , it is perhaps the only one that’ll make it home in your suitcase as an edible souvenir.

More info:  For opening hours and directions, check out the  Cup Noodle Museum website .

24. Drive a Go Kart around Osaka

Can you imagine anything more ridiculously Japanese than dressing up in costume and jumping into a go-kart to drive around the city streets?! This experience turns your 1990’s Mario Kart dreams into real life, and is a unique way to see the city of Osaka, to say the least.

This is a  popular thing to do in Tokyo , but if you’re short on time in Japan’s largest city, Osaka is another excellent place to have this quirky only-in-Japan experience. 

Important to know:  Be sure to bring your international driver’s license with you, as you will not be allowed to do this experience without it. Ben had his, but sadly I didn’t have one on this trip, so we had to skip this experience. 

25. Visit Universal Studios Osaka

Let your inner child loose with a visit to Osaka’s very own Universal Studios. 

We’re kicking ourselves that we didn’t make it here because we’re huge Harry Potter fans! So next time we’re in Osaka and have a day to spare, we’ll definitely make it to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

And while we’re there I suppose we should check out some other attractions, like Spider Man and Jurassic Park… that is  if  we can peel ourselves away from Hogwarts and butter beer! 

Cost of tickets at the door:

• ￥7,400 ($68 USD) for adults
• ￥5,100 ($47 USD) for children
• ￥6,700 ($62 USD) for seniors (65 years and over)

Insider Tip:  We’d recommend  getting your tickets in advance  so you can skip the ticketing queue when you arrive. Just show your e-voucher and pass right through the entrance! 

26. Go for a unique mountain hike and trout fishing experience

If you’re looking for a unique experience to immerse yourself in nature while in Osaka, this may be just the thing for you. 

This highly rated mountain hike and trout fishing experience takes you off the beaten path (literally!) into the wilderness of Mt. Kongo outside of Osaka. During the 2 hour hike, you’ll come across 3 waterfalls, cross a beautiful creek and experience some climbing rocks. 

Enjoy the views and a sacred template at the summit before heading back down to try your hand at trout fishing. A local restaurant will prepare whatever you catch for a late lunch before you head back to Osaka. 

• Price: from $67 USD per person
• Duration: 8 hours

“This was absolutely my favorite experience in Japan so far. The views were so beautiful and it was a much needed change of pace from the bustling city… Kazuki is a very thoughtful guide and kept a nice manageable pace for the group. I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys hiking, beautiful forest views, and local food.” – Jessica, November 2022

27. See a comedy show

We’re huge fans of comedy clubs, and had we known about  ROR Comedy Club  before our trip, we definitely would have made it here. (We’re kicking ourselves for missing it!)

This comedy club features local and international stand up comedians, and all shows are in English.

The  reviews online are fantastic , and tickets are very affordable:

• Regular ROR shows: ¥1,000 ($9.22 USD)
• Open Mics: ¥500 ($4.61)
• Dinner, 2 Drinks & Show Set: ¥3,500 ($32.26 USD)

If you’re visiting Osaka and love to laugh, do yourself a favor and  reserve your tickets now  (you pay at the door). And if you do go,  shoot us a message  and let us know how it is!

Shows are Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights.

28. View Osaka from above

If you want to see Osaka from above, there are two very famous views of this city.

• Abeno Harukas
• Umeda Sky Building

At dusk you can watch the sun start to set and the lights turn on in the city, which would be a pretty spectacular site. Although, this is one of the more busy times from these viewpoints.

We decided to skip this as we got a pretty darn good view from the top of the Osaka Castle. Plus, we didn’t feel like paying 1,500 yen each for a view.

29. Check out the Osaka Science Museum

• Hours: daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
• Admission: 600 yen for adults, 300 yen for children

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want to add a visit to the Science Museum to your list of things to do in Osaka. 

The interactive exhibits are both fun and educational and can easily keep your family entertained for hours on end. Themed exhibits include the history of science, electricity and basic chemistry. 

In addition, there is a science show multiple times per day (in Japanese only) and a planetarium (separate entrance fee) for those more interested in outer space. 

30. Have High Tea at the Conrad

If you want to experience a taste of the high life and budget isn’t too much of a restraint, book high tea at 40 Sky Bar & Lounge in the Conrad Hotel.

Like the name of the restaurant suggests, this establishment is on the hotel’s 40th floor and offers guests spectacular views of the city’s skyline below.

Choose from different tea sets , ranging in price from 3,400 yen to 5,800 yen per person, which include platters of sweet and savory bites made from highly-acclaimed chefs.

Afternoon tea is served daily between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.  Make reservations here .

31. Visit the Mozu Tombs

Located in Sakai, within the Osaka prefecture, the Mozu Tombs are a cluster of Japanese megalithic tombs. The large mounds of earth are mostly covered in trees in unique keyhole shapes with moats around the perimeter. 

The site was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. 

The tombs were constructed in the 4th to 6th centuries for the ruling elite. The largest of the Mozu Tombs is believed to be the resting place of Emperor Nintoku and is Japan’s largest grave at 800 meters long by 600 meters wide.

32. Walk across the Hoshi no Buranko suspension bridge

If you want to get out of the city and into nature, head to Hoshida Park. Home to a massive wooden suspension bridge called “Hoshi no Buranko,” we’re told this is one of Japan’s best kept secrets for peeping fall foliage. 

Even if you aren’t traveling to Osaka in the fall, an outing to Hoshida Park is a must if you’re looking to escape the chaos of the city for a little nature nourishment. There are plenty of hiking opportunities and it’s an easy trip from the city center. 

How to get there: To get to the park from Osaka city, you’ll want to get on the Katano Line at Hirakata Station. From there take the Keihan Electric Railway and get off at Kisaichi Station. The bridge is about a 30-minute walk from there.  

Bonus! Day trips from Osaka

Osaka is perfectly located in Western Japan to a lot of nearby attractions that make great day trips from Osaka . Here are a few of our top suggestions…

33. Day trip to Hiroshima

Hiroshima is just 1 hour and 40 minutes west from Osaka on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen train (which is covered in your  JRail pass ), making it a great place to visit as a day trip. You can definitely stay longer if you have the time, but this trip is also doable in just a day.

We put together a  complete guide to day tripping from Osaka to Hiroshima  with all the information you’ll need. Check out some of the highlights below!

Things to do in Hiroshima

Once you arrive in town, make your way to Peace Park and see all the important sights:

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum:  Newly renovated, this museum displays the devastation the atomic bomb had on Hiroshima and it’s people.
• Hiroshima Peace Park:  An open park with many monuments in the center of Hiroshima dedicated the victims of the atomic bomb.
• Children’s Peace Monument:  Filled with paper cranes, this monument is dedicated all the children who lost their lives due to the bomb.
• Atomic Bomb Dome:  Once a convention center, this structure was one of the only buildings still standing after the blast. The hypocenter of the bomb was only a few blocks away.

Touring the museum and walking around the park can take about half of the day and it’s totally doable on your own as there there are many signs in English.

Have more time?  Here are some other things to do in Hiroshima:

• Eat Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki,  which is quite a bit different than the traditional Osaka version
• Explore the Hiroshima Castle
• Take the ferry (covered in your  JRail pass !) to Miyajima Island  for a quick visit or to spend the night. Miyajima is known for its picturesque floating torii gate, wild deer, and beautiful views from Mount Misen which can be reached on foot or by cable car.
• Wander around the beautiful Shukkeien Garden.

Perfect Osaka to Hiroshima Day Trip (+ Fun Things to Do!)

Plan the ultimate day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima to check out some of the city’s most important historic sites. Plus, we’ll share unique things to do in Hiroshima, how to get to nearby Miyajima Island  for free , as well as some of the special foods you should try in this region.

34. Day trip to Nara

Nara was actually one of the ancient capitals of Japan, and was the place of power during most of the 8th century. And while there are plenty of stunning temples and shrines to explore, the biggest draw for most visitors is undoubtedly the famous Nara deer that wander around this city.

Known as Sika deer, these friendly cuties can be found wandering the city’s parks, streets, and temples, and were once thought to be sacred messengers for the Shinto gods.

Nara is just 45 minutes from Osaka by train, making it a popular day trip. However, there are lots of things to do in the area, so if you have time to slow down you might want to consider spending the night.

Things to do in Nara

We’ve created the perfect Nara day trip itinerary (plus a free map!), including these highlights:

• Before you pack your bags, make sure you read these tips on feeding the Nara deer (including what NOT to do).
• Get off the main walking street  and wander further into the parks and temples, where you can find solitude from the crowds, and deer that aren’t surrounded by selfie sticks.
• Explore shrines and temples in the area.
• Note: It’s really just a pillar with a hole carved through, which is apparently the same size as Buddha’s nostrils on the bronze statue for which this temple is famous. Crawling through is supposed to bring enlightenment to anyone who can fit through in their next life. 
• Try freshly-made mochi  at the famous  Nakatanidou .
• Yoshikien Garden is a good choice, as it is free for all foreign visitors, and next to it lies the larger and more famous Isuien Garden, which is particularly beautiful in autumn.
• Explore Naramachi,  the area in town where streets retain their historic charm.
• Have a delicious lunch.  There are plenty of great places in town, but we really enjoyed  this soba noodle shop  that we stumbled upon. (It’s a bit out of the main part of town and the name is in Japanese). 

Perfect Nara Day Trip Itinerary (map + hidden gems!)

Known for bowing deer that visitors can feed, Nara makes a great place to visit in Japan. We’re sharing the perfect Nara day trip itinerary, complete with can’t-miss attractions, where to see the famed deer, and hidden gems most tourists miss.

Ethical Travel Note:  We decided not to feed the deer, as they are wild animals. That said, they have been living within the city limits for so long that they’re very used to being fed, and most tourists do choose to buy the “deer crackers” for 150 yen from various vendors around the city. We preferred to observe and take pictures, but decide what you personally feel comfortable with. The deer are known to bow when presented with a cracker, though we did see some getting a bit aggressive. 

35. Day trip to Kyoto 

Known for its beauty, extensive gardens, palaces, temples and shrines, Kyoto makes an excellent day trip from Osaka. The former capital city of Japan is just a 30-minute train ride away.  

There are tons of things to do once you reach the popular tourist city. Here are just a few suggestions:

• Peep the cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park: This urban park in Kyoto is known for its blooms (and crowds!) in the springtime.
• Go geisha spotting: The best place to spot a geisha (outside of seeing them in a paid performance) is to take a stroll around the lantern-lit Pontocho Alley in Kyoto at dusk and you may just be rewarded with a rare sighting of a geisha or maiko.
• Visit the famous Tenryū-ji Japanese garden. 
• Wander through the famous bamboo forest in Arashiyama: Located just outside the center of Kyoto, the grove of giant, swaying bamboo stalks is beautiful year-round and emanates tranquility.
• Visit the “Golden Temple”: One of the most famous temples in Kyoto, it’s officially called the Kinkaku-ji Temple, viewing it as the sun starts to set is said to be spectacular.
• Photograph the Fushimi Inari Shrine : You’ll recognize these famous orange gates from Memoirs of a Geisha . An hour or two should be sufficient to explore a large portion of this shrine and leave without feeling like you’re missing out. 
• Go on a Sake Brewery Tour : Get to know how sake is produced using this 400-year old brewing tradition. 

How to get there: Take the Special Rapid Train on the JR Kyoto Line from Osaka to Kyoto. The journey will take just 30 minutes and cost you 560 yen (less than $5 USD). 

You can also opt for a guided day tour if you prefer to leave the logistics and planning to experts. 

Absolute Best Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan Considered the “cultural capital of Japan”, Kyoto is full of can’t-miss sights, hidden gems, and world-renowned dining. We’re sharing the very best things to do in Kyoto, including the most popular attractions and the secrets you won’t find in most guidebooks.‘

Our experience: Watch Osaka come alive!

We created a video that walks you through the best things to do in Osaka:

What to eat in Osaka

Osaka is known around the country for its food scene, and locals are known to be able to put down a LOT of food.

In fact, there is a saying in Japanese:  “Osaka no kuidaore,”  which literally translates to “the Osaka habit of eating until you drop”. But the true meaning is actually  “the habit of eating until you go into debt.”  Either way, I think you get the point that food is a BIG DEAL in Osaka.

There are endless food options in this city, but here are 3 of the most famous local delights you should try:

These small balls of batter are filled with octopus and ginger (or other ingredients), and grilled to perfection.

Okonomiyaki

Sometimes called “Japanese pizza” this is essentially a batter mixed with lots of meats and vegetables of your choice, grilled, and served with special sauces.

Vegetables and/or meat on skewers, battered,deep-fried, and served with a tasty dipping sauce.

Related Reading:  If you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss our  ultimate Japan Food Guide . It is packed with literally EVERYTHING you’ll need to know about Japanese cuisine and what foods you should definitely try.

How to get around Osaka

Osaka is a very well-connected city, and public transportation is affordable and efficient. It can be a bit overwhelming at first to understand how to get around and just what types of passes you’ll need. Fear not, we’re here with all the info you need!

If you have a  JRail Pass , you’ll have free access to JR Lines in Osaka, which is great because the Osaka Loop Line is very helpful. However, the JR lines can be quite a walk from some of the attractions you’ll likely want to visit, like Dotonbori.

For this reason, we’d also recommend getting an ICOCA Card, which we will describe below:

This is a prepaid metro card for the Kansai Region, which includes Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and the surrounding areas. You can even use this card in other places in Japan as well, like Hiroshima and Tokyo.

Comparable to the Oyster Cards in London, you can load these cards and use them to tap in and out of metro stations. You can even use them to buy items at 7-Eleven. You’ll need to buy one ICOCA per person you are traveling with.

Purchase the card from a ticket kiosk in most stations starting at 1,000 yen. There is a 500 yen deposit, but you can get this refunded once you are done traveling in the Kansai Region. You cannot get the ICOCA card refunded outside of the Kansai Region so be sure to get your deposit refunded before you leave.

The Suica and Pasmo cards work the same way, but those deposits can only be refunded around Tokyo Region.

Rent a bike

Osaka is actually pretty bike-friendly, and there are plenty of bike lanes through the city. HUBchari is one of Osaka’s city bike share programs and you can rent a bike for around 200 yen per hour. You could also find a local bike rental shop near your hotel and rent a bike for the day.

Getting to and from the airport

There’s a good chance you’ll be flying in or out of this metropolis, since Kansai Airport (KIX) is the third busiest hub in Japan. Located on it’s own airport island in Osaka Bay, the best way to get to KIX is by train.

If you have the JR Pass, you can travel from KIX to Osaka for free. If you don’t have the JR Pass it might cost you up to 2400 yen one way. Using JR Lines, hop on the Kansaikudo Line that connects KIX to Osaka Station, or you can use the Hakura Line and transfer at Tennoji Station to get on to the JR Osaka Loop Line.

There is no shortage of hotel options in Osaka. And unlike hotels in Tokyo, there are actually some pretty affordable options! 

We’re highlighting 2 unique hotel options as well as more traditional offerings:

Stay in a Local Neighborhood

If you like getting off the typical tourist path on your travels, keep reading because we think you might like this accommodation option…

Sekai Hotel  was created to address a few issues that Osaka, and Japan in general, is facing:

• Combat over-tourism in the crowded city center
• Support local businesses that otherwise wouldn’t see the benefits of tourism
• Reinvigorate neighborhoods that are seeing a decline of residents
• Encourage local and tourist interactions in a more authentic way

Vacant apartments have been turned into places to guests to stay in a local neighborhood. It was kind of like staying in an  Airbnb  (Click here for  $55 off your first stay on Airbnb ). The apartment we stayed in was basic, yet very comfortable and had everything we needed.

Guests receive a neighborhood “pass” of sorts that gives you free breakfast at a local mom-and-pop diner, and getting to chat with them was one of the highlights of our stay. It also gives you free access to the local public bath, free takoyaki at a local stand, and a few other perks. It’s a great way to explore the neighborhood and support businesses in the area.

We’d recommend this accommodation option for travelers who are confident in navigating cities, prefer to stay in an apartment over a hotel room, and are fairly self-sufficient. The main office is open during the day and if you need anything at night you can message and the staff responds quickly.

Good to know:  The potential downside to this is that you’ll be based outside of the city center. To see the major attractions you’ll have to take the train about 20 minutes into town. If that doesn’t deter you, we think you’ll really enjoy this local stay.

There are two locations, one in the Nishikujo neighborhood and another in the Fuse neighborhood of Osaka. Check  Booking.com  for availability.

Stay in a Capsule Hotel

Each capsule comes with pajamas (athletic shirt and capris) and a bag of goodies: headband, loofah, brush, toothbrush and toothpaste, cotton swabs and slippers.

Didn’t love sleeping apart from Ben (yes, I know we’re obnoxious!), but it was an interesting experience, and the pod was much more comfortable than I was expecting. 

Other Osaka Hotel Options

Budget:  Capsule Hotel –  Hotel Cargo  – It will be unlike another hotel stay you’ve ever experienced. Capsule hotels are typically gender seperated, and some are a cheaper option for women. Hotel Cargo is a little nicer than the common tube hotel and it has an onsen on the top floor.

Mid-Range:   Kamon Hotel Namba  – Great for couples, this hotel has standard rooms with private bathroom. But once you see the breakfast options, you’ll want to book now. It’s one block from a subway station and steps from Dotonbori.

Luxury:   Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station  -Located the corner opposite from Namba Station, this highly rated hotel is close to all the action of Osaka. The rooms are quite spacious for Japan and the breakfast looks delicious.

Airbnb:  Osaka really surprised us with the number of highly rated and affordable Airbnb’s, like  this apartment . You can find entire apartments with a small kitchen and private bathroom just a few blocks from Dotonbori.

We have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs in our  Airbnb article .

Round up of best things to do in Osaka

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Osaka, Japan so you can see everything in one place.

• Cooking class
• Walking tour 
• Shiteno-ji Temple
• Izakaya hopping
• teamLab Botanical Gardens
• Purikura (Japanese photo booth)
• Tempozan Ferris Wheel
• Osaka Castle
• Namba Yasaka Shrine
• Baseball game 
• Public bath
• Kuromon Ichiba Market
• Roll your own sushi class
• Traditional tea ceremony
• Capsule hotel
• Shinsaibashi shopping district
• Cup Noodle Museum
• Go Kart around Osaka
• Universal Studios Osaka
• Mountain hike and trout fishing experience
• Comedy show
• Osaka from above
• Osaka Science Museum
• High tea at the Conrad
• Hoshi no Buranko suspension bridge
• Kyoto 

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Osaka to Hiroshima: Day Trip Guide
• Foods to Eat in Japan: A Guide to Japanese Cuisine
• Everything you Need to Know About Visiting Japan for Your First Time
• How to Purchase a Japan Rail Pass Ticket

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Japan !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Japan trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

What do you think about this list of things to do in Osaka, Japan? What would you add to the list? Do you know of any other hidden gems? Do you have any questions about traveling in Osaka? Let us know in the comments below!

Comments (8) on “ 35 Exciting Things to Do in Osaka, Japan ”

I’m so excited to visit Osaka! I’ve heard so many great things about it. I can’t wait to check out all the exciting things to do!

Hope you have a great time in Osaka!

Fantastic resource, I’ll now plan to spend longer in Osaka after reading this.

Definitely! Osaka is worth the extra time, there is so much to do and see there!

Great job Katie – that’s an epic post and goes well beyond Osaka too. And I think you’re bang on about its ‘character’ is what sets it apart and makes it worth revisiting time after time.

I particularly like some of your ‘off-the-beaten-path’ suggestions. That ‘speakeasy’ looks like a rare find and nice to see Sinsekai getting a shout out too. (I always recommend it to new timers to Osaka, give them a feel for the less polished side of the city.)

Another tip: for Shittenoji Temple, try to coincide your visit with the monthly flea market. The market takes place on the 21st and 22nd of every month. Arrive early to bag the best bargains.

Regarding your pictures inside a pachinko parlor which you didn’t mention: photography is banned in most pachinko parlors and permission should be gained before taking pics.

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Home » Travel Guides » Japan » 25 Best Things to Do in Osaka (Japan)

25 Best Things to Do in Osaka (Japan)

Osaka is one of the main cities in Japan after Tokyo and is located on the island of Honshu. It is not as traditional or picturesque as other spots in the country like Kyoto, but it is still well worth a visit if you are planning a tour of Japan.

Many locals will tell you that Osaka is one of the most laid back cities in the country and the people here are known for their warm hospitality, which means that you will have the chance to learn all about Japanese culture here.

If you are a big of a foodie then you will also be in luck in Osaka which is said to have one of the best food scenes in all of Japan. To add to this you can explore museums, galleries and amusement parks all over the city, so this is one part of the country that you definitely don’t want to miss.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Osaka …

1. Visit Osaka-jo

Osaka Castle dates from 1583 when it was first built using 100,000 workers to get the finished building.

As with many castles in Japan however, it was destroyed and the structure that stands now was built in 1931 and has also been renovated over the years.

Despite the fact that the castle is no longer the original, it is still one of the most impressive buildings in Osaka and is located in the middle of a leafy park and is encircled by a charming moat.

Once inside the castle you can check out a selection of weaponry as well as art work and there is also an observation deck on the 8th floor where you can take in panoramic vistas over the adjacent park and wider Osaka.

Recommended tour : Guided Walking Tour around Osaka Castle

2. Tour Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum

If you want to learn more about traditional art in Osaka then consider a trip to Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum where you can learn all about the art of ukiyoe which is a kind of Japanese print.

The prints are made using blocks of wood and the museum itself is styled on a traditional Japanese house.

Anyone who likes art work should definitely not miss this off the itinerary as it gives you an insight into one of the less well known handicrafts in Japan.

3. Check out the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

One of the best museums in Osaka is said to be the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living which is an open air museum covered in models of houses and traditional buildings.

There are a huge number of replicas of structures that would have stood in Osaka in the Edo Period from the 17th to the 19th century and this is the ideal place to come if you want to get a glimpse of how people would have lived in Osaka in days gone.

To really get into the spirit of things you can even dress up in period garb and walk around the complex dressed in a traditional Japanese outfit like a kimono.

4. Explore Sumiyoshi Shrine

Sumiyoshi Shrine has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest Shinto shrines not only in Osaka but also in wider Japan.

The shrine was built over 1,800 years ago and it is said to be one of the prettiest Shinto shrines of its kind thanks to its ornate architecture and dainty design features.

As well as the actual shrine you will also find a park here which features a bridge that stretches over a glassy pond.

Recommended tour : Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour

5. Ascend the Umeda Sky Building

The Umeda Sky Building is one of the main landmarks in Osaka and you can see it from all over town.

The building soars to a height of 173 meters and it has an observatory which is located on the 39th floor which is known as the Garden Observatory.

This is one of the famous floating gardens for which Japan is well known and you can come here to check out this hanging garden which is filled with local flowers and plants.

Book online :  Umeda Sky Building Observatory Entry Ticket

6. Watch a show at the National Bunraku Theater

The National Bunraku Theater is the place to come if you want to check out the Japanese art of bunraku.

This is a kind of puppet theater which would have started out life in the Edo Period, and you can now come here to watch a performance in person.

Bunraku features large puppets which are operated by as many as three puppeteers and tell the story of Japanese epics and legends from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Fortunately there is also an English translation on offer so that you can work out what is going on.

7. Go out in Dotonbori

Dotonbori is known is Osaka as the place to come if you want to go out and enjoy the best of the city.

This part of Osaka is the central hub of bars, restaurants and cafes, and you can come here in the evening to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Many of the cafes and restaurants here also have their own roof terraces and this means that you can sit out, listen to some live music and look out across twinkling Osaka at the same time.

Related tour : Osaka Bar Hopping Food Tour

8. Visit Osaka Aquarium

Osaka Aquarium is also known as Kaiyukan and is located inside Tempozan Harbor Village that backs on to Osaka Bay.

This is one of the largest aquariums in Japan and has eight floors of exhibits which include a plethora of marine life such as whale sharks, otters, dolphins and turtles.

There is also one main tank in the aquarium which is some nine meters in length and is a riot of color thanks to the tropical fish and other marine animals like seahorses that bob around inside.

9. Go shopping in Shinsaibashi

Locals will tell you that the best place to go shopping in Osaka is in the Shinsaibashi District which sells pretty much anything and everything.

This part of town is a collection of arcades which means that this is a good place to come on a rainy day and you will find items such as souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes and household objects.

If you want some gifts or mementoes of your time in Osaka then this is the best place to come and shop up a storm.

10. Try the local food

Osaka is known in Japan for being something of a foodie paradise so if you like to eat then you have come to the right place! Some of the highlights here include the Okonomiyaki which is a kind of pancake made from shredded cabbage which is loaded with a range of toppings, as well as battera which is a style of sushi which features mackerel compressed with rice in a wooden box.

You can also try the kushikatsu which consists of skewers which feature different ingredients such as meat and vegetables which have been deep fried in breadcrumbs.

Interesting tour: Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

11. Make a pot at Maishima Pottery Museum

Maishima Pottery Museum is part of the Bay Area of Osaka and sits on a manmade island which was built for the purpose in 1998. The aim of the museum is to use the marine clay which lies in the waters around Osaka and you can come here and try to make your own pot using a potter’s wheel.

There are also galleries here featuring a range of pottery pieces and you can also check out the onsite kiln.

Once you have made your masterpiece you can glaze it before it is fired in the kiln and it can then be shipped to your home as a memento of your holiday.

12. Scale Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harukas has the claim to fame of being the tallest building in Osaka and also in all of Japan.

For that reason, you mustn’t miss it on a trip to the city and you can travel to the 5th floor here where you will find a charming cafe.

There is also an observation deck located here that lets you take in stunning panoramic vistas across the city.

Once you have checked out the views, you can also explore the rest of the building which features a museum, a department store and other shopping and dining venues.

13. Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is one of the most iconic sights in Osaka and is located on the edge of the scenic Osaka Bay.

At one time this would have been the tallest Ferris wheel of its kind in the world and the main attraction here is the chance to take a spin on the wheel and check out the pretty sights across the city.

The wheel is illuminated at night so if possible try to come here in the evening and enjoy the nighttime views of Osaka.

14. Enjoy some retail therapy at Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street has the claim to fame of being the longest shopping street in Japan, so for that reason alone make sure not to miss it.

The street stretches for over two kilometers through Osaka and you will find a huge range of items for sale here.

These include things such as clothes, household items, shoes, books and souvenirs and there are also a range of places to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat here.

Make sure to also look out for the traditional Japanese medicine shops which sell a range of unusual products.

15. Tour Peace Osaka

Peace Osaka was built to educate visitors on the importance of peace and is also a tribute to all those who lost their lives in wars around the world.

Some of the key galleries here are dedicated to dark periods in Osaka’s history such as the bombings which razed much of the city to the ground during the Second World War.

For a moving look at how war has affected Japan and other countries in the world, this is well worth a visit if you are in town.

16. Check out Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji Temple would have started out life in the 6th century when it was built under Emperor Suiko but like many buildings in Japan it was destroyed during the Second World War.

Nowadays the buildings here are reconstructions and you will find a range of different structures dotted around a compound.

Some of these take their inspiration from the 7th century onwards and some are more modern in style, so this is a great place to come to check out different examples of Japanese religious architecture.

17. Enjoy the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum

One of the most iconic sights in Osaka is the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum which is dedicated to the humble instant noodle.

Here you will find a range of quirky attractions such as a statue of Momofuku Ando who is credited with inventing instant ramen and you can also check out a giant replica of a cup noodle.

The museum also offers you the chance to taste and even make your own noodles as part of a series of workshops.

18. Relax at Spa World

Spa World, as the name suggests, is a complex in Osaka which is made up of a range of spas, saunas and pools.

The facility is open 24 hours a day and you can come here and try out the onsen which are bathing pools located outside so you can also take in the fresh air and views at the same time.

You can also choose from a range of spa treatments such as massages and you can even stay here overnight if you buy a full pass to Spa World.

One thing to note however is that Japan has a very strict policy on tattoos so you will not be able to use the facilities if you have any visible tattoos on your body.

19. Watch a Sumo Spring Grand Tournament

Every spring you will find the Sumo Spring Grand Tournament in Osaka which is a great way to find out more about the amazing Japanese sport of sumo wrestling.

The event usually starts in March and is located inside the Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium and you can watch some of the most famous sumo stars battle it out in the ring.

Schedules are subject to change so you need to check out the local listings to see what is on when you are in town.

20. Visit O-hatsu Tenjin

O-hatsu Tenjin is the name for a shrine in Osaka that is said to date back some 1,300 years and which is known for its unique legend.

The story goes that O-hatsu was a sex worker who committed suicide here along with Trokubei who was the apprentice of a merchant in Osaka, so that they could live together forever in paradise.

As a result of the legend, couples come here to pray for a strong relationship.

21. Admire the Tower of the Sun

The Tower of the Sun is one of the more unusual attractions in Osaka and is made up of a tower which is 70 meters in height and was designed by Okamoto Taro, a famous Japanese artist.

The tower is in the form of a creature which has three faces pointing in different directions and it was built in the 1970s in honor of the famous World Expo that was held in Osaka.

22. Explore the National Museum of Ethnology

This museum is an ode to not only Japanese ethnology but of other world cultures.

The aim is to show how people from all over the world are interconnected and you will find ceramics, costumes, masks, vehicles, and other memorabilia from countries all over the globe.

These include galleries dedicated to Africa, India, Southeast Asia, and of course Japan, and there are interactive exhibits such as a fun music room where you can play a range of world music.

This is also the place to find out more about Japanese culture from all over the country.

23. Check out Tenjin Matsuri

Tenjin Matsuri is one of the main festivals in Japan and there is no better place to check it out than in Osaka.

The festival takes place in July and lasts for two days and you can check out the mikoshi on the second day.

These are shrines which are hoisted through the streets of Osaka and revelers wear traditional costumes and carry the shrines to O-kawa where they are loaded onto boats.

In the evening you can also watch an opulent fireworks display.

24. Have fun at Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan is one of the most important theme parks in the country after Disneyland in Tokyo and is also the second largest in Japan.

As you would expect this is similar to Universal Studios in the United States and you can come here to check out everything related to your favorite films.

One thing to note however is that there is obviously more of a Japanese twist here, so expect to see a range of local characters as well.

25. Scale Tsutenkaku

Tsutenkaku is one of the most famous spots in Osaka and features a tower which was originally built in the 20th century but which has been replaced since then.

This is one of the main landmarks in town as is a symbol of how Japan rose again after being heavily bombed during the Second World War.

Now you can check out the sights across Osaka from the viewing platform and there is a lucky genie here known as a ‘sky billiken’ which grants wishes if you rub its feet according to local legend.

25 Best Things to Do in Osaka (Japan):

• Visit Osaka-jo
• Tour Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum
• Check out the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
• Explore Sumiyoshi Shrine
• Ascend the Umeda Sky Building
• Watch a show at the National Bunraku Theater
• Go out in Dotonbori
• Visit Osaka Aquarium
• Go shopping in Shinsaibashi
• Try the local food
• Make a pot at Maishima Pottery Museum
• Scale Abeno Harukas
• Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel
• Enjoy some retail therapy at Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street
• Tour Peace Osaka
• Check out Shitennoji Temple
• Enjoy the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum
• Relax at Spa World
• Watch a Sumo Spring Grand Tournament
• Visit O-hatsu Tenjin
• Admire the Tower of the Sun
• Explore the National Museum of Ethnology
• Check out Tenjin Matsuri
• Have fun at Universal Studios Japan
• Scale Tsutenkaku

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15 Best Places to Visit in Osaka, Japan

Just behind Tokyo, Osaka is a very popular city for first-time visitors. With a mix of attractions all over the city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – even kids. We’ll show you popular theme parks, museums, shopping areas, and landmarks. There are things to do in all seasons, particularly in spring when the cherry blossoms come to life. Read on to discover the best places to visit in Osaka, Japan.

Table of Contents

Places To Visit With Kids

• Universal Studios – This is a must-visit theme park with a variety of attractions based on popular movies and TV shows. From thrilling rides to family-friendly experiences, there’s something for everyone.
• Tennoji Zoo – For families or animal lovers, this zoo is a popular attraction. It is one of Japan’s oldest zoos and houses a diverse range of animals.
• Osaka Castle – It’s a great place for families to explore and have a picnic. Kids can run around the spacious grounds. The castle itself offers historical insights and beautiful views from the top.

Places to Visit for Couples

• Spa World –  Relax and rejuvenate at Spa World. It’s a unique onsen theme park with various pools and baths from different countries. It offers a relaxing and indulgent experience.
• Tombori River Cruise (Dotonburi River) – Cruising along the river definitely speaks of a romantic date. Couples traveling to Osaka should not miss this experience while in the city.
• Harukas 300 Observatory (Abeno Harukas)  – Located on the top three floors of Abeno Harukas, it provides stunning views of Osaka. The breathtaking scenery creates a romantic setting for couples to enjoy together.

Osaka at Night

• Tempozan Ferris Wheel – Located near the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, riding this provides panoramic city views. This is an exciting experience, especially at night.
• Osaka Kaiyukan Night Aquarium – It is one of Japan’s largest and most impressive aquariums. It features a massive tank displaying the Pacific Ocean’s marine life.
• Dotonbori – Perhaps the most iconic nightlife spot in Osaka, Dotonbori is a bustling street. It is filled with colorful neon lights, giant signs, and a variety of dining options. Try the famous Glico Running Man sign, explore the food stalls, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

1. Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most historically significant castles. It was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s great unifiers, to rival Azuchi Castle of another unifier, Oda Nobunaga. By 1615, the castle fell in the Siege of Osaka. The castle went through many more tumultuous events and reconstructions. It fell into neglect after Word War 2, however, by 1997 a modern reconstruction restored Osaka’s pride. Today, you can take an elevator to the top and explore the modern museum inside. The surrounding Osakajo Park is fun to explore with some cafes near the Morinomiya Subway Station entrance.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9am-5pm
• Address:  Japan, 540-0002 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Osakajo

Check Tours   Official site

2. Universal Studios Japan

Tokyo may have Disney World, but Osaka has Universal Studios Japan (or USJ). No matter when you go, it will be busy so try to plan ahead. Some of the more popular attractions are Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter, Minion Park, Water World, and Jurassic Park. There are also rides and play zones for young children. During the day, there are street parades and live shows too. Use the smartphone app to check waiting times so you can hit all the rides faster. It might even be worthwhile to buy express passes to save time on the best rides. As a major regional attraction, many tour agents have ticket and package deals.

• Opening Hours:  Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm
• Address:  2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka 554-0031, Japan

3. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

The Osaka Kaiyukan is one of the most unique aquariums in the world. As you enter through an ‘ocean tunnel’, there’ll be different zones to experience. You’ll see marine life like otters, puffins, sea lions, penguins, and tons of fish. The highlight is the huge Pacific Ocean tank which is 9 meters deep and 34 meters long. Besides the stunning shoals of fish and stingrays, you’ll see an impressive whale shark. To avoid a long wait, you can buy a timed-stamped entry ticket online. Nearby is the Tempozan Harbor Village, a Legoland center, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and a sailing ship.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10:30am-8pm
• Address:  1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka 552-0022, Japan

4. Tennoji Zoo

Tennoji Zoo has been a staple of Osaka for a long time. They have a diverse range of animals from all over the world. You’ll see various birds, grazing animals, reptiles, and the popular petting zone. They also have giraffes, zebras, and a hippo house in the Safari section.  Allow a couple of hours to see all the animals at Tennoji Zoo. The best time to go is on a weekday when there are fewer visitors. Keitakuen Garden is also nearby so you can relax here after the zoo.

• Opening Hours:  Tues-Sun 9:30am-5pm
• Address:  1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0063 Japan

5. Shitenno-ji Temple

Osaka’s Tennoji Ward is actually named after its historic Shitenno-ji Temple. The name derives from the four (shi) heavenly kings (tenno) worshipped in Mantra Yana Buddhism. The origins of the temple date to Prince Shotoku of the Asuka Period (592 to 710). It was Japan’s first officially recognized temple. On the East Gate, you’ll see a fusion between Shinto and Buddhist styles – the oldest of its kind dating back to 1294. At the Spring equinox, the sun sets directly between the West Gate during the Jissokan festival. There are various treasures, ancient and modern, to see at the temple. One is the Dragon Well, the recently restored Eirei-do Hall, and the Gokuraku-Jodo Paradise Garden. Visitors are free to walk around, but a couple of areas require a small entry fee between 200 to 400 yen. 

• Opening Hours:  Daily 8am-4pm
• Address:  1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051 Japan

6. Sumiyoshi Taisha

Sumiyoshi Taisha can be considered the spiritual heartland of Osaka City. This Shinto shrine, in the south of the city, traces its origins to the earliest days of Osaka as a trading port. Its legends go back 2000 years to the Empress Jingū of the 3rd century, and it also worships three sea gods, the Sumiyoshi Sanjin. The midsummer Sumiyoshi Matsuri is also one of Osaka’s biggest festivals. But there are other key festivals throughout the year to enjoy as well. No matter when you visit, we’re sure you’ll enjoy its wide precincts and abundance of nature.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 6:30am-5pm
• Address:  2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045 Japan

7. Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Housing takes on a particular interest in a country of dense urban living. At the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, you’ll discover how Osaka City evolved. In the Edo Period exhibition, you can wander streets restored to this era. You’ll see merchant houses and traditional storefronts. Other exhibits have intricate scale models with English audio guides. Temporary exhibitions, however, may not always have English support. Also on display are collections of household appliances, objects, and ornaments. The museum is a short walk from Yodo River and one subway stop from Kids Plaza Osaka.

• Opening Hours:  Wed-Mom 10am-5pm
• Address:  Japan, 530-0041 Osaka, Kita Ward, Tenjinbashi, 6 Chome 4-20

8. Spa World

Japan is a country famous for its natural hot springs known as ‘onsen’. Spa World, in Tennoji, takes things up a notch with onsen and spa concepts from around the world. In the European Zone, there are themed baths resembling ancient Greece, Rome, and even Atlantis. The Asian Zone has Persian, Japanese, and Bali baths plus a Hammam. Men and women are separated but the zones do alternate each month. On the 8th floor, there are international stone saunas for both sex, but swimsuits are required. Keep in mind, spas do not allow entry to those with tattoos, small or large. The complex also has a swimming pool, gym, game rooms, dining, souvenir shop, and hotel rooms.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-8;45am (closed from 8:45am-10am for cleaning)
• Address:  3 Chome-4-24 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002 Japan

9. Tempozan Ferris Wheel

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is only a 5-minute walk from the Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium. It sits in front of the Tempozan Harbor Village shopping and entertainment complex.  This giant wheel is over 112 meters high with a diameter of 100 meters. As one of the biggest Ferris wheels in the world, the views of Osaka are incredible, particularly at night. On a clear day, you can see Mount Ikoma to the east, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge to the west, and Kobe’s Rokko mountains to the north. The ride takes roughly 15 minutes so there’ll be plenty of time for photos. Combine this with a visit to Osaka Aquarium to make it a fun night out.

• Opening Hours:  Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm
• Address:  1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022 Japan

10. Umeda Sky Building

Osaka has never quite dazzled like its eastern rival Tokyo, at least in terms of architecture. However, over the years, many avant-garde constructions have helped transform the cityscape. One of these is the Umeda Sky Building in north Osaka. Its key attraction is the Kuchu Teien Observatory or the Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory. Running between the Twin Towers are the world’s highest escalators. It’s supported by a glass and metal bridge, which leads to the observation deck. You’ll also find cafe Sky 40 if you want to enjoy a drink while admiring the views.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9:30am-10:30pm
• Address:  1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023 Japan

11. Tsutenkaku Tower

Big cities like to boast their magnificently tall towers, but none are as eclectic as Tsutenkaku in Tennoji Ward, Osaka. Getting to the tower is half the fun if you go along Shinsekai Street. When you come out of JR Shinimamiya Station you’ll see an exit sign for Tsutenkaku Tower.  This really colorful street has giant decorations like squid, octopus, blowfish, lanterns, and noisy pachinko parlors. Food like sushi, takoyaki, kushikatsu, and okonimiyaki, are all cheap and good. Tsutenkaku Tower itself has an altar to Billiken – an American ‘charm doll’ and mascot of St. Louis University. The tower and surrounding areas are very lively at night.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-8pm
• Address:  1 Chome-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002 Japan

12. Abeno Harukas

The Abeno Harukas is another new architectural gem to have recently graced the skies of Osaka. In fact, it’s the tallest building in Japan. The top 60th floor is a 360° glass-enclosed observation deck, while the floor below is a novelty goods shop. The 58th floor is an outdoor arboretum with wood flooring, two ‘Twin Towers’, and a cafe. You’ll have incredible views on all the floors – even the restrooms have stunning views. The Kintetsu Department Store occupies 16 floors and there’s also a small art museum. Make the visit even easier by staying at  Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel , which occupies floors 19 to 57.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9am-10pm
• Address:  1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016 Japan

13. Shinsaibashi

Shinsaibashi is the mid-town of Osaka between the Dotonbori River in the south and the Yodo River in the north. It’s a shopping area by day with entertainment at night. The main area stretches east from Midosuji Avenue two blocks across reaching north to Shinsaibashi Station.  Shinsaibashisuji arcade shopping street, or ‘shoutengai’, is the main strip with many mid-ranged brand stores. Along the side streets are cafes and sweet shops. Later at night, the bars and restaurants attract city workers. High-end brand stores and department stores are along Midosuji Avenue. On the west side, across Midosuji Avenue, is the trendy youth culture district of Amerika-Mura. If you love food, shopping, and lively vibes, this is a must-visit in Osaka. 

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-9pm
• Address:  1-2 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 542-0085 Japan

14. Kuromon Ichiba Market

Kuromon Ichiba (Market) is an old-style local shopping arcade. It’s an arcade street that zigzags through the lower downtown Namba to the Nipponbashi area. The way there is out Exit 10 from the Kintetsu Nipponbashi Station and straight down the road. It’s popular for fresh-off-the-boat seafood, especially good sushi. There are casual eateries with delicacies such as crab, shrimp, oysters, scallops, sea urchins, and eels. Many stores offer street food takeaways and there are stand-up eateries with beer. You can find quite a few interesting shops here, bargain goods, Japanese ‘wagashi’ sweets, and souvenirs.

• Opening Hours:  Mon-Sat 9am-5pm
• Address:  2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073 Japan

15. Dotonbori

The Dotonbori, Osaka’s most iconic and recognizable area, includes Dotonbori Street, Ebisubashi Bridge, and Tonbori Canal. Its flashing neon signs and giant screens captivate day and night. The revamped canal now features a wooden boardwalk with restaurants and food kiosks. People still flock for pictures at the iconic Glico Man billboard and the nearby crab restaurants. Another popular attraction is the Namikiza Museum, showcasing Bunraku and Kabuki theater. At the Kukuru Takoyaki shop (giant octopus above) you can join Osaka food workshops. In the south-side backstreets, there are narrow cobbled alleyways. You can catch a 20-minute cruise along the canal outside the Don Quiijote discount store with its landmark Ferris wheel. A longer ‘Jazz Cruise’ starts from Minatomachi Wharf which is another revamped river area with outdoor dining and shopping. If you really want to know this area well, there are local guides who can show you all the highlights.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 24 hours
• Address:  1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071 Japan

Best Areas To Stay In Osaka

• Namba/Dotonbori – A famous district in Osaka, it is best known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment. It is also lined with many shops, restaurants, and street foods. River cruises on Dotonburi Canal are available for convenient sightseeing. The 4-star Citadines Namba Osaka Hotel is the best hotel in this area.
• Shinsaibashi –  It is located in the heart of Osaka, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. With the famous Shopping Arcade, non-stop shopping is possible. It also comes alive at night, with different entertainment hubs lighting the streets. For an unforgettable experience around Shinsaibashi, stay in MIMARU Osaka Shinsaibashi North Hotel .
• Tennoji –  Traveling becomes easy with its convenient transportation hub. You also have diverse hotel options when staying in this area. Day trips are exciting, with attractions like Shitennoji Temple and Tennoji Zoo nearby. But to make the experience even better, the 5-star Osaka Marriot Miyako Hotel is top-notch.
• Umeda  – Like the other districts in the city, Umeda also has excellent transportation links. Further, it offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment venues. With its central location, you are near Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building. For the best stay, we highly recommend the InterContinental Hotel Osaka .

Best Time To Visit Osaka

Osaka During Summer

During the months of mid-June into September, Osaka gets pretty hot and sticky. Fortunately, there are plenty of shopping arcades or underground malls. Particularly around Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Kuromon Market. On hot days, you can head to indoor attractions like the Kayukan Aquarium . Or visit breezy viewing spots like Abeno Harukas and the Umeda Sky Building . Summer is best for traditional festivals like the Yodo River Tenjin Matsuri or Sumiyoshi Taisha . You can try all the unique Japanese cuisines at food stalls and enjoy the festivities into the night.

Osaka During Autumn

Osaka is cool and pleasant during the months of autumn or fall. The weather is perfect for outdoor attractions, especially if you’re visiting historic sites. Recommended places are Shi Tennoji Temple , Sumiyoshi Taisha , and the Museum of Housing & Living . Although the Kaiyukan Aquarium is good anytime, the nearby Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel has great views before winter sets in. Shinsekai near Tennoji Tsutenkaku Tower has lots of heart-warming Osaka fast foods to enjoy amid a colorful vibey atmosphere.

Osaka During Winter

Although Osaka gets pretty cold into late December through March, there are usually only a few snowy days. Underground shopping in the Umeda uptown or Shinsaibashi midtown will keep you nice and warm. For something more relaxing, try Spa World in Tennoji with its numerous onsen, world spas, and stone saunas. Romantic sky-high dining awaits at Abeno Harukas or the Umeda Sky Building . Universal Studios Japan might be a bit cold outdoors, but the crowds are less in winter.

Osaka During Spring

Spring is a delight anywhere in Japan with cherry blossoms blooming. Osaka may not have the best autumn leaves, but cherry blossoms are breathtaking along the river banks.  Osaka Park and Osaka Castle are both popular places during spring.  The Museum of Living & Housing is only a 15-minute walk to the Yodo River and Sakuranomiya Park areas. If you’re on a date, outdoor riverside dining by the Minatomachi Wharf is a good choice. Or go on a Jazz Boat cruise along the Tonbori River.

Best Ways To Get Around Osaka

Getting around Osaka is relatively easy and efficient. It’s all thanks to the city’s well-developed public transportation system. Here are some of the best ways to get around Osaka.

• Osaka Metro –  Consisting of several subway lines, it covers most parts of the city. It’s a fast and convenient way to travel between neighborhoods and major attractions.
• JRWest Railway – This is a circular train line that connects major stations around the city. It’s useful for accessing popular areas within the city center.
• Osaka Wonder Loop Bus – A hop-on-hop-off bus service, it takes visitors to major attraction sites. The English signage onboard is easy to understand too. It provides a convenient way to explore the city’s highlights.
• Taxis – These are readily available in Osaka. But they can cost more than public transportation. They are a good option for late-night travel or when convenience is a priority.
• Bicycles – Osaka is a bike-friendly city, with many rental stations everywhere. Biking can be an enjoyable way to explore local neighborhoods and parks at a leisurely pace.

Find Tours & Tickets in Osaka

Osaka Attractions Opening Hours

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