osaka travel attractions

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

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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

Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Osaka Castle

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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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Kansai Osaka Bright, gaudy and playful: Osaka provides ample amusement with little pretension

• Destinations

Osaka is a charming, relaxed city best known for its food, fun and nightlife—with some history and culture peeking through

How to get there.

Osaka is an excellent base for exploring the greater Kansai region, which includes Kyoto, Nara, Kobe and Wakayama. Each of these areas is a one-hour train ride from Osaka’s central transportation hubs (Osaka Station in the north, and Namba Station and Tennoji Station in the south). Kansai International Airport (KIX) is rivaled only by Narita Airport in Tokyo in size and scope, and is serviced by all major airlines. There are many direct flights between KIX and many major cities in the US, Europe and Australia.

• The neon lights of Dotombori Bridge and Osaka’s Minami area
• Exploring Osaka Castle Park and Expo Memorial Park, the site of Expo '70
• Partaking in major seasonal festivals including Tenjin Matsuri, Kishiwada Danjiri and Ebessan
• Indulging in famous culinary delights, particularly in neighborhoods such as Tenma and Ura Namba

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Local Specialties

Iwa okoshi are candied puffs made from millet. They've been produced in Osaka since 1185. Think of them as cereal bars with eight centuries of history behind them.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki are savory pancakes made with shredded cabbage, flour, egg and dashi, and either cooked at your table for you or left for you to cook yourself. The latter option is much more fun. A long list of toppings and combinations are available, with some of the more common ones being pork, shrimp, octopus and cheese.

Bits of octopus combined with pickled ginger and green onions, mixed in a batter and grilled in a special mold. The resulting spheres are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. An Osaka classic topped with Worcestershire sauce, ginger and seaweed flakes.

Osaka Kongo Bamboo Blinds

Bamboo blinds predate the Heian period (794-1185), and were first used inside the Imperial palace and the residences of nobles. Finely crafted and elegant Osaka Kongo sudare, made of quality bamboo from the foot of nearby Mt. Kongo, have a beauty and ambiance that is quintessentially Japanese.

Sakai Forged Blades

Sakai hamono are hammer-forged blades from Sakai and Osaka. Crafted using traditional blacksmithing techniques, these cutting utensils are prized for their strength and edge geometry.

Seasonal Highlights

A sea of pink fills the prefecture's parks and boulevards, and the city comes out in full force to celebrate the gorgeous views at Osaka Castle, Yodogawa Riverside Park and the Osaka Mint.

Festive spirits and outdoor amusements take everyone's minds off the stifling heat. Osaka's foremost festival, the Tenjin Matsuri, thrills the crowds and many head for the prefecture's southern beaches. Frequent firework displays brighten the night.

As summer's humidity dissipates, the leaves turn fiery red and provide a striking backdrop for outdoor adventure. The Midosuji Parade brings a vibrant procession and marching bands down Osaka's grand boulevard.

Holiday illuminations light up the urban areas and end-of-year festivities get into full swing. Runners from all over the world gather for the Osaka International Women's Marathon.

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Discover Osaka's Hidden Gems! 10 Exciting Tours and Activities

For visitors who wish to explore a deeper side of Osaka beyond the regular travel destinations, we selected 10 unique tours and activities. From Osaka's street art to bike tours, samurai experiences, and nature walks, these activities provide unique ways to enjoy the culture of Osaka.

You’ve done the Glico running man, sampled the takoyaki, and experienced the hustle and bustle of the lively city of Osaka . Now, why not take a look at some of the more unique experiences that this pulsing, energetic metropolis has to offer?

From channeling your inner samurai to exploring some of the hidden gems and hideaways of the area, you’ll be spoilt for choice and come away with a unique and interesting memory of your time in Western Japan.

Unique Activities in Osaka

1. Osaka Kickstart: Hotspots and Hidden Gem Tour 2. Urban Canvas: Osaka Street Art Bike Tour 3. Deep Backstreet Osaka Tours 4. Kendo Experience with English Instructor in Osaka 5. Learn Katana Sword Techniques of Samurai and Ninja 6. Traditional Kintsugi Workshop in Namba, Osaka 7. Osaka Walking Tour 8. One Day in Osaka: A Six-Hour Bike Adventure 9. Osaka 4-Hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide 10. Minoh Waterfall and Nature Walk in Minoh Park

1. Osaka Kickstart: Hotspots and Hidden Gem Tour (Private or Group)

Photo courtesy of Viator Join an unforgettable Osaka adventure featured on Channel 5 British TV's "Jane McDonald in Japan," offering a unique glimpse into the city's hidden treasures and vibrant culture.

This isn't your typical tour—it's an authentic and quirky exploration of Osaka's lesser-known gems, led by insider guides bursting with enthusiasm, humor, and personal stories.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate tour or a lively group, the tour offers great flexibility and a truly personalized experience. You’ll journey through Osaka's hotspots and hidden spots, cozy bars, restaurants, and the bustling seafood market, where you'll discover the city's true essence.

As you explore, listen to your local guide's captivating tales, blending personal anecdotes with fascinating historical insights that bring Osaka's vibrant past and present to life.

Don't miss this opportunity to kickstart your Osaka adventure and uncover the city's best-kept secrets.

2. Urban Canvas: Osaka Street Art Bike Tour

Photo courtesy of Viator

Take a journey through the vibrant streets and hidden corners of modern Osaka on a unique Urban Canvas Art and Biking Tour . This tour encompasses the city's lesser-known neighborhoods, including the hip districts of Tenma, Juso, and Nakazaki-cho, where creativity flourishes and urban art comes to life.

Experience the dynamic street art scene of Osaka, where local and international artists leave their mark on the city's walls, transforming ordinary spaces into captivating works of art.

As you pedal through the city streets, soak in the eclectic mix of urban landscapes, from bustling train lines and meandering rivers to towering bridges and modern skylines.

During the tour, the group makes frequent stops to explore hidden gems and sample local delights. Visitors will indulge in specialty coffee at quaint cafes, experience the charm of old-school Japanese standing bars, and savor a slice of locally produced pizza, all while soaking in the atmosphere of these vibrant neighborhoods.

↑ Return to the top of article.

3. Deep Backstreet Osaka Tours

Photo courtesy of Viator Embark on an immersive journey through the hidden alleys and historic districts of Osaka with this Deep Backstreet Tour led by Andy, a Japanese-Australian guide.

Visitors will get a chance to discover the city's lesser-known gems as they delve into its rich history, heritage, and local traditions.

Along the way, indulge in the vibrant flavors of Osaka street foods, sampling delicious treats that reflect the city's culinary diversity.

With insider tips and recommendations from your knowledgeable guide, gain a deeper understanding of Osaka's local neighborhoods and their unique character.

Whether you're intrigued by hidden historical sites or craving authentic street cuisine, this personalized small-group tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Conclude your experience by indulging in a mouthwatering dinner of traditional 'kushikatsu' cuisine, savoring bite sized morsels of crispy fried soul food!

4. 2-Hour Kendo Experience with English Instructor in Osaka

Photo courtesy of Viator Indulge in a unique opportunity to try out kendo , the traditional sword-based martial art of Japan, catering to both beginners and experienced visitors alike!

Led by an English-speaking kendo instructor, this two-hour experience offers a comprehensive introduction to the art of Japanese swordsmanship.

Whether it's your first time wielding a bamboo sword or you're eager to refine your skills, the instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of kendo, from basic etiquette to mastering the techniques of armor usage.

With a focus on clear and easy-to-understand instruction, the class ensures that participants of all levels can fully appreciate and enjoy the art of kendo.

Kendo’s place in Japanese culture has made it a pastime enjoyed by all ages and is prized for being both a way to train mind and body. After this experience, you may walk away wanting to continue learning this exquisite martial art in your home country!

5. Learn Katana Sword Techniques of Samurai and Ninja

Photo courtesy of Viator Do you want to learn to elegantly wield a sword like a samurai or stealthily sneak like a shadowy ninja? Led by an experienced instructor, delve into the world of Japanese warrior traditions as you master sword skills, striking poses, and the art of Shuriken (star) throwing.

Begin your journey with a captivating performance by three samurai and a ninja, drawing inspiration from their expert techniques and fearless spirit.

Then, step into the shoes of a true warrior as you don a traditional kimono, ninja costume, or samurai armor, completing your transformation into a legendary figure of Japanese history.

Under the guidance of your instructor, learn the intricate 'tate' sword technique, honing your posture, balance, and mental focus to achieve mastery over the katana.

Cap off your training with a thrilling ninja scene performance and the opportunity to test your skills in Shuriken throwing, using rubber replicas of the iconic ninja stars.

With an instructor and costume provided, this immersive class offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the legendary martial arts of Japan's ancient warriors.

6. Traditional Kintsugi Workshop in Namba, Osaka

Photo courtesy of Viator Enjoy the artistry and whimsy of kintsugi during this immersive workshop in Namba. Delve into the rich history and cultural significance of kintsugi and lacquer as you spend an hour learning about these traditional Japanese techniques.

Under the expert guidance of your instructor, discover the intricate process of kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired using lacquer infused with 23-karat gold powder.

Experience the transformative power of this centuries-old practice as you see the beauty of imperfection and the art of embracing flaws.

After your trial session, you'll have the opportunity to powder gold onto your own piece of pottery, adding a touch of elegance and symbolism to your creation.

Your finished kintsugi plate will be ready for pickup within five to seven days or can be shipped to your home for an additional fee. Same-day pickup options are available upon request.

By the end, you'll not only have crafted your own kintsugi masterpiece but also gained a deeper understanding of this time-honored art form and the significance of lacquer in Japanese culture.

7. Osaka Walking Tour

Photo courtesy of Viator Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this small-group excursion offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse facets of Osaka's dynamic character on a fun and flexible walking tour!

From the bustling business center to the historic cultural hubs, explore Osaka's eclectic neighborhoods and witness all the beauty and wonder of this city.

Wander along the lively waterfront of the Dotonbori entertainment district, where neon lights and bustling crowds create a lively atmosphere.

Discover the serenity of Hozenji Temple, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban hustle and bustle, and immerse yourself in the rich history and spiritual traditions of Osaka.

Walking obviously works up a hunger! So indulge your taste buds with a sampling of Osaka's culinary delights, including the local specialty Kushikatsu, as you traverse the charming streets of traditional Shinsekai.

8. One Day in Osaka: A Six-Hour Bike Adventure

Photo courtesy of Viator A workout and a journey through the heart of Osaka awaits you on this all-day bicycle tour of the lively city. Join your knowledgeable guide and pedal your way through Osaka's bustling neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems and popular attractions along the way.

Cycle past Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol of the city's rich history, and marvel at the majestic Shitennoji Temple, a sacred site steeped in spiritual significance.

Explore the lively district of Shinsekai, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse cultural offerings, as your guide leads you to lesser-known treasures that showcase the authentic essence of Osaka.

The tour includes a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Osaka's renowned culinary scene and indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine. It's a nice pitstop on the journey.

With the convenience of exploring on two wheels, you'll cover more ground and maximize your time, ensuring you experience all of Osaka's main attractions in a single tour.

9. Osaka 4-Hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

Photo courtesy of Viator This private half-day walking tour offers the flexibility to see and do exactly what you want, ensuring a memorable experience in Japan's vibrant second-largest city. And you’ll be guided every step of the way by a professionally licensed guide!

Your local guide will meet you at your hotel, eliminating the hassle of finding your way, and will work with you to create an itinerary that suits your preferences.

Whether you're interested in exploring historic landmarks like Osaka Castle, admiring modern architecture at the Umeda Sky Building, or immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Dotombori District, the choice is yours.

With the guidance of your knowledgeable local guide, you'll have the opportunity to see and do a lot in just half a day, making it ideal for active travelers and first-time visitors eager to discover Osaka's highlights.

Please note that entrance fees, food, and any transportation costs are not included in the tour price.

Whether you're drawn to historic sites, modern landmarks, or local culture, this customizable tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Osaka's diverse attractions.

10. Minoh Waterfall and Nature Walk in Minoh Park

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Minoh Quasi-National Park, a peaceful oasis just a stone's throw away from bustling Osaka. This enchanting park is a beloved hiking destination for locals, offering a tranquil retreat where you can reconnect with nature amidst lush greenery and pristine landscapes.

Venture deeper into the park and discover Ryuanji Temple, Japan's oldest ascetic Buddhist temple, nestled amidst the verdant surroundings. Here, monks sought solitude to pursue enlightenment, adding a layer of spiritual significance to your journey through the park.

The highlight of your excursion awaits at the majestic waterfall of Minoh, where cascading waters create a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates the senses. You can enjoy the rhythmic sound of falling water as you soak in the natural beauty of this picturesque setting.

Enjoy Exploring the Lesser-Known Sides of Osaka

Osaka is ripe with opportunities to try the strange, the wonderful, and the unique! Whether leisurely exploration is your jam or participating in traditional activities and martial arts is your passion - you’re sure to find something in Osaka.

So go out there and experience all that the city has to offer and who knows what hidden gems you’ll discover along the way! The city beckons - will you answer?

Main image courtesy of Viator

Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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19 BEST Things to Do in Osaka, Japan [2024 Edition]

• Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Whether you’re looking for culture, fun or delicious food, our list of the best things to do in Osaka, Japan will help you make the most of your next trip!

As of today, Tokyo , Kyoto , and even Hiroshima all have extensive attractions in Japan and are visited by thousands of tourists each year due to their history, festivals, and other events.

Osaka however, can somewhat be overlooked when compared to these other cities.

In my opinion, Osaka honestly stands out as a must-see and port city on Honshu Island that is just as incredible as Japan’s more touristy places.

Whether it be touring a Buddhist temple, eating local food, or just admiring the neon lights around Osaka city, there are many ways to enjoy yourself and experience Japanese culture here.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the top places to see in Japan

Table of Contents

1. Drive a Go Kart Around the City Dressed as a Video Game Character

2. legoland discovery center, 3. eat the street food in the dotonbori district, 4. take a day trip nishiki beach, 5. universal studios japan, 6. hattori ryokuchi park, 7. check out osaka castle, 8. hit up the market in kuromon ichiba, 9. atc asobi mare, 10. sumiyoshi shrine, 11. hozenji temple, 12. osaka science museum, 13. tower of the sun, 14. tempozan ferris wheel, 15. utsubo park, 16. avoid the osaka aquarium, 17. nagai botanical garden, 18. umeda sky building, 19. instant ramen museum, the best things to do in osaka japan.

Osaka Bay is an economic powerhouse with several fun activities, whether they have cultural roots or they are just commercially based.

Activities and things to do in Osaka can easily suit anybody, whether it be riding a bike or taking a stroll through a classic park setting, or visiting Universal Studios Japan.

The first thing you should do is pick up an Osaka Amazing Pass , which gives you unlimited transport, as well as entrance to many of the main Osaka attractions, including the castle.

The Klook website in the link above is the cheapest place to buy this and is what we personally used on our trip to Osaka in 2019.

BONUS – Use the coupon code “NMDSKLK” on Klook when checking out and you’ll get $5 off your first booking!

From visiting theme parks like Universal Studios and Legoland, to standing on the observation deck of Osaka’s tallest building, there is no limit to the attractions in Osaka!

NOTE: We recommend AVOIDING the horrible Osaka Aquarium. Read more about it below.

This is not even a joke. By far the funniest Osaka activity you can do is to get dressed up as your favourite video game or anime character, and zip around the city in a go-kart!

Starting close to the Namba station, you go through a quick safety briefing, get dressed up, and then hit the streets.

How this is legal we have no idea, but it’s honestly one of the coolest things to do in Osaka!

The cheapest place to book this is online on the Klook website .

Legoland is a beloved, Lego-themed amusement park with unique and fascinating locations all over the world.

Legoland in Japan is one of the most interesting and unique places to visit in Osaka, and a must-do if you’re traveling to Osaka with kids.

Taking a day trip to Legoland can be a pleasant and somewhat otherworldly experience for you and your children.

Kids will love entertaining themselves with the endless toy tables and lego bricks. There is also a 4D cinema and plenty of rides.

Visit the Legoland Discovery Center for some gifts and toys to take home as souvenirs.

Buy a ‘Skip the Line’ ticket on the Klook website .

Experiencing some of Osaka’s best attractions could not be complete without tasting and trying the street food.

If you’re a real foodie, Dotonbori should be on the top of your list of places to visit in Osaka.

Dotonbori is highly known for its entertainment and activities, but the street food is superb, so much so that just the thought of it should excite those with curious taste buds.

Which are the best dishes to try? Takoyaki, authentic Ramen, and Yakitori are some of the most delectable street food meals offered.

From sweet to savoury, and even unique food items such as grilled octopus, Dotonbori pretty much has something in store for every intrigued visitor.

For all food lovers wondering what to do in Osaka, the Dotonbori district is an Osaka must-see! It’s open all day and night.

If you’re looking to have a relaxing day trip at the beach, then add a visit to Nishiki Beach to your list of things to do in Osaka.

You can amp up your day trip experience at Nishiki by jet skiing or trying other water sports and activities.

Nishiki Beach also goes under the name of Nishikinohama Beach Park, and for good reason.

There is also a park section in addition to the beach, where you can go barbecuing and enjoy picnics with friends and families.

It is best to visit Osaka in the summer if you are planning to enjoy some sun and fun activities at Nishiki Beach, as it is only open from July 1 to the end of August.

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on our detailed itinerary for the perfect 3 days in Osaka !

One of four Universal Studios theme parks located all over the world, Universal Studios Japan is one unique theme park located in Osaka that is fun for you and the whole family.

Akin to the other Universal Studios parks, the main attractions are the rides based on famous movie franchises.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park are two popular themed mini worlds full of rides and activites.

For the younger children, a world of entrancing activities featuring the beloved cartoon character Curious George is also located in the park.

A day trip to Universal Studio Park is always among the top Osaka tourist attractions for every cinema buff!

Opening and business hours in the park actually vary and change by month, so it is important to check the website for more specific details.

Hattori Ryokuchi Park is a large park comprised of several steep and exquisite hills as well as mountainous terrain, and is located in the northern part of Osaka.

The setting and true aesthetics of this park are a bit rustic when compared to the booming nightlife of Osaka and other Japanese cities as a whole.

It is truly beautiful and peaceful with elegant fountains and playgrounds for children to enjoy.

It should come as no surprise that many locals, and sometimes tourists, use this park to relieve stress and achieve the ultimate relaxation time.

Tennis courts and horse riding centers are readily available for those looking for more of a thrill.

The park generally stays open at all times, as there are so many activities to experience and enjoy.

If you are looking to experience a real cultural and historical landmark in the city, Osaka Castle is the perfect place to visit based on the true significance of helping the now close-knit nation of Japan to be unified.

It’s one of the oldest of its kind, constructed in 1583. But it was destroyed shortly after by the Tokugawa.

So really, the Osaka castle that you can see now was reconstructed in 1931.

This landmark would be best to visit during the Cherry Blossom season, often in March and April, as it is a popular spot for hanamis (the act of enjoying flowers).

Not only should you visit the castle as it is one of the most beautiful things to see in Osaka due to the elegant design, but the inside contains different activities and artifacts to see.

Historic materials dating from the Castle’s first construction are on display.

It’s definitely a mandatory highlight without which the Osaka sightseeing experience wouldn’t be complete!

One of the most fun activities to experience within Osaka Castle is getting the chance to wear Japan’s iconic clothes and accessories – kimonos, helmets, and even surcoats.

You could get your photo taken while wearing these different items.

Surrounding the park is the Nishinomaru Garden, an archery placement.

Get your Osaka Castle ticket here .

Like Dotonbori, Kuromon Ichiba is a paradise for exploring street food and different vendors.

The market is lively and takes up a good amount of space in Osaka, allowing you to try various dishes from its vendors.

Fresh food is the ultimate treat when visiting Kuromon Ichiba, as many vendors can simply just prepare your food for you right then and there.

If you’re into seafood then you’re in for a treat, as Kuromon Ichiba is best known for its fish dishes.

If you’re a first-time tourist, definitely try the different fresh street foods offered as it is a one-of-a-kind experience.

If you’re looking for the top things to do in Osaka with kids, then you absolutely have to check out ATC Asobi Mare. This place is more for families and is referred to as an entertainment center or indoor amusement park.

It is one of the more enjoyable Osaka attractions for the young ones.

This center is ideal for children of all ages, with there being a softer and safer zone for toddlers and a more fascinating shopping arcade for older children.

There is even a place for your child to play dress up, and experience hours of fun.

Because it is an indoor park, you won’t be bothered by the weather outside – perfect for those rainy days.

Also known as the Sumiyoshi Taisha , this shrine was founded in the 3rd century. It is one of the most famous Buddhist temples you could visit in the entire country.

Visiting this shrine can be a peaceful and enlightening experience, making it one of the best things to do in Osaka.

Located on the Shrine’s grounds is the breathtaking Sorihashi bridge that stands out with its sleek red color.

Strolling around the shrine is relaxing and has some unique insights, with you being able to witness blessings given to children during different times of year

This specific Buddhist temple currently holds no admission fee which is akin to several other Buddhist shrines outlining Osaka and Japan as a whole.

The Hozenji temple is a significant and cherished Buddhist temple within Osaka.

This Buddhist temple is located near the busy and popular shopping and tourism street of Dotonbori.

However, the aesthetic and appeal of the temple are still peaceful, complete with elegant lanterns and several statues and lamps crafted from different materials.

There is even water that is blessed with luck to bring you good fortune and harmony available.

Fortunately, this Buddhist temple is easily accessible as it is closer to the popular city and commercial tourist areas like Nanba, within the Chuo ward of Osaka.

This is one of the most significant and mesmerizing museums in Japan, and one of the best places to visit in Osaka.

It might be difficult figuring out what to see in Osaka when you’re traveling with kids, but this science museum is interesting for kids of all ages.

The displays are interactive, educational, and enjoyable.

The interactive exhibits were mainly designed to help educate and inform children, although anyone could find something they would enjoy learning about within the museum.

Exhibits at this Osaka Museum include the history of science, electricity, and the basic foundation of chemistry.

Fees for the exhibits differ between adults and children, or students, with prices starting ranging from 300 to 600 yen.

Opening times can vary and change, especially now that the museum is currently closed for renovation, and will be reopening in April of 2019.

For those who would plan to see two museums, the Osaka Science Museum is located near the National Museum of Art in Nakanoshima, Kita. Head to the National Museum of Art before or after your trip to the Science Museum.

The Tower of the Sun is a unique and extravagant building and is a prime example of Japanese architecture.

Read our extensive guide for traveling to Japan !

It is located right in the Osaka prefecture, so it is well known and perfect for those who are staying in a central location.

The tower was built in dedication and as a symbol of the Osaka Expo in 1970.

There is lots of incredible artwork around the tower, including the Tree of Life exhibition space.

With the tower’s height being 70 meters, the top floor observation deck is easily accessible thanks to moving staircases and lifts.

Tower of the Sun is a one-of-a-kind sight, and the exhibitions including the Tree of Life are stunning.

Instead of being entrapped within an amusement park, the Tempozan Ferris wheel is located within the Tempozan harbor village.

It stands out due to its massive size and height of 112 meters.

With the booming nightlife and bright scenery, the Ferris wheel doesn’t seem out of place as it adds a nice touch to the harbor.

You can visit and ride the wheel both during the day and at night, though the glittering lights are especially scenic after dark.

Rides on the Ferris wheel usually last 15 minutes. Riding this iconic wheel is one of the most entrancing and captivating activities when wondering what to do in Osaka.

The ride is obviously thrilling due to its height and is not for the faint of heart, but the view is stunning and ultimately worth a try.

Both a public and urban-centered park, Utsubo Park is built on the remains of a former airfield, giving it the appearance of an airplane runway.

Flowers and different bushes line the park, and there is also an elegant rose garden. Towards the northern side of the park, there are souvenir shops and other touristy stores.

Other attractions in Utsubo Park include tennis courts, botanical gardens, a science and technology center, and a flower and sculpture exhibit. The latter is only open in the fall months of October and November.

It might seem strange to tell you NOT to do something on a list of things to do in Osaka, but there’s a good reason for it.

The Osaka Aquarium is known for being one of the city’s top attractions. In fact on most other blog posts and articles you’ll read about Osaka, they’ll have this as being in the top 3 activities.

This place is touted as being the best aquarium in Japan, and one of the best in the world. But the truth is it is a horrible, sad place.

The marine life are kept in abysmally small tanks, often exposed to loud noises and intense crowds.

The penguins for example are constantly surrounded by hundreds of people, literally only centimetres away from them.

There’s a whole section where people can actually touch the fish, and you’ll find lots of visitors playing with them, with no care at all for their wellbeing.

Perhaps the worst of all though is the two whale sharks that depressingly circle their tiny enclosure.

The biggest fish in the world is kept in a tank that barely gives them enough room to move.

To make matters worse, there are reports that the whale sharks actually die every few years due to being kept in captivity.

When a whale shark dies, the aquarium just buys another one to put on display.

The management claim they are doing some conservation work, but whatever small amount of good they may be doing is overshadowed by their blatant disregard for the wellbeing and health of the animals they own.

Of course, you can make your own decision about visiting, but there’s no way we would ever, ever recommend anybody to go there.

If you care about animals at all, you will not support this tragic attraction.

Not much else makes it on our list of places to avoid in Osaka, but the Osaka Aquarium should be avoided at all costs.

Following the theme of flowers and botany, the Nagai Botanical Garden is an elegant garden full of varying flower and plant species.

Seasonal flowers also line the park and are a popular favourite for locals and tourists alike.

You can visit the park during any season, as the gardens differ slightly based on the time of year.

The garden is even enjoyable during the wintertime, with the inclusion of the Christmas rose being prominent in the colder months.

Trees of varying species also line the park, including the sequoia, a massively large and extravagant tree.

To accompany these trees, there are over 1,000 other species scattered throughout the large garden, all paired with different bird species.

The Umeda Sky Building is one of the most well-known landmarks in Osaka. It is located near Shin Osaka Station and is a real sight to see.

Consisting of two giant towers, each at 40 stories tall, the building is super modern and almost other-worldly looking.

The two towers are joined at the top by an entire floor known as the Floating Garden Observatory. From here, you can enjoy a fantastic view over the entire city.

Heading up here is not for those who are afraid of heights, however. The observatory is suspeded over the air, since it acts as a bridge between the two towers.

But even from the ground, the Umeda Sky Buildings is an iconic piece of modern architecture in Osaka.

Visit the website for more info !

It is well known that everybody loves ramen noodles when visiting Japan. So why not visit an Osaka museum dedicated to them?

Definitely one of the most unique Osaka points of interest, the Instant Ramen Museum is dedicated to educating people about the food known as instant ramen.

While it is certainly bizarre with its topic of choice being instant noodles and the famous brand “Cup Noodles”, it is certainly worth a visit as it is one of the most memorable things to do in Osaka.

Some exhibits within the museum are the Chicken Ramen Factory where you can watch and make chicken ramen by hand, the My CUPNOODLES factory in which you can customize your own special cup noodles package, and “the birth of chicken ramen” where you can learn about how the first instant ramen product came about.

The instant noodles tunnel displays a large and extensive line up of different brands, flavours, and other variations of instant ramen.

There is also a tasting room, where popular brands and favorite flavors of instant ramen are tried and tested, as well as a museum gift shop.

Some items are even limited, making them valuable and rare; especially as they are only sold and marketed from this specific shop within this Osaka museum.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Related posts, 21 awesome things to do in yokohama, japan [2024], the ultimate travel guide to chino in nagano, japan, experiencing a traditional ryokan in murakami, japan, 2 thoughts on “19 best things to do in osaka, japan [2024 edition]”.

Great post guys! I’ve done a good number of these over the years and you’ve highlighted some of the best for sure.

It’s been some years since I’ve been to the Osaka Aquarium but the poor conditions you describe are distressing. I didn’t think of it at the time, so good on you for calling out what you found.

Bless your comment on the Aquarium!! I’m now following you because of that. I wish people were as empathetic and knowledgeable on the welfare of animals and how zoos and aquarium etc etc are the worst attraction to attend! Thank-you!

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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!?

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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 (9) on “ 35 Exciting Things to Do in Osaka, Japan ”

My husband, adult son, and myself will be in Japan mid June. We only have 8 days. We were thinking of staying in Nara for 3 nights and seeing Kyoto and Osaka during those days. After reading your website, maybe it would be better to stay in Kyoto for 3 nights and do day trips to Nara and Osaka. Thoughts?

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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• 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!▽

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▶︎ 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 🌈

• Things to Do

• 20 Must See Attractions In...

The Best Tourist Attractions in Osaka, Japan

Osaka Hub Writer

The Japanese port city of Osaka , on the island of Honshu, is often compared to its big brother, Tokyo – but it is a thriving metropolis in its own right. Where to start? We curate the must-visit tourist attractions to add to your itinerary.

Osaka is well-known for its food – the Japanese call it “the nation’s kitchen”, neon-lit nighttime entertainment district, Nipponbashi, and traditional temples, along with the tallest building in the country, Abeno Harukas . There’s even a castle. Here’s our guide.

1. Tennoji Park

This green park is situated beneath Abeno Harukas , a soaring 300m (984ft) skyscraper above Osaka Abenobashi Station , the highest in Japan. Inside, there’s a host of family-friendly attractions, including Tennoji Zoo , which houses 1,000 animals of 200 different species, such as lions, chimpanzee and koalas, along with the traditional Keitakuen Garden,and the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts . In the surrounding Tenshiba area, you’ll find restaurants, a market, futsal courts, and the Kintetsu Friendly Hostel, which offers affordable accommodation for families and groups of up to eight people.

2. Shinsekai

Architectural Landmark

The Shinsekai neighbourhood, next to the downtown Minami district, was created in 1912 to showcase Osaka’s modern identity and was modelled on Coney Island and Paris. While it has a reputation for being a bit seedy, it’s also one of the city’s most colourful areas and has a distinctive culinary identity. If you’re feeling daring, dine at one of the fugu (blowfish) restaurants , or grab a casual bite at one of the kushi-katsu outlets, which sell deep-fried, breaded meat, fish and vegetables on skewers.

4. Kuromon Market

Want to experience some of Osaka’s local delicacies? Head to Kuromon Ichiba Market , in the Minami district, that boasts the nickname “Osaka’s Kitchen”. There are around 150 vendors selling everything from seafood, meat and other produce to traditional sweets and homewares. Street food on offer include grilled crab, yakitori (chicken skewers), sushi, sea urchin, and the city’s famous takoyaki (balls of batter filled with diced octopus).

5. Osaka Castle Park

Museum, Park

6. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

Think Japan and you probably don’t envisage a quaint windmill in a tulip garden. However, this is exactly what you’ll find at Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park . This 300-acre (120ha) park, on the outskirts of the city on the site of the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Exposition, also features one of the world’s largest greenhouses, a traditional Japanese teahouse, a large pond, swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis courts, a dog park and many other amenities. The windmill is found in the Mountain Area, alongside the International Garden, which is made up of micro-gardens inspired by different countries around the world.

7. Dotonbori

Buddhist Temple

Hozenji is a quiet temple, tucked away among the alleyways that branch off from the noisy Dotonbori district. Lantern-lit and featuring a stone deity covered in moss, it’s an intimate escape from the nearby commotion and commercialism. Pray to the presiding god of protection, Fudomyoo, for safety on your travels before heading to the izakaya (a Japanese bar that serves drinks and small dishes) on Hozenji Yokocho , a cobbled street straight from a history book.

Park, Shopping Mall

10. Nambayasaka Shrine

Shinto Shrine

Osaka’s most visually striking shrine, Nambayasaka , features a stage shaped like a massive lion’s head baring its teeth. It is quite possibly the closest most will, or even want to, get to being consumed by a large animal. This shrine is not only a great place for a photo-op but it’s also a chance to experience local culture at a site that isn’t crowded as it’s off the beaten path.

11. Den Den Town

Bookstore, Shop

12. Spa World

Amusement Park, Health Spa

After spending time in any large city, it is often good to unwind. One great way to let off steam is by enjoying a soak at Spa World, a gigantic spa and water park. Spa World’s main attraction is the around-the-world-themed bathing experience, which features European and Asian influences. The spa , which features numerous opulent baths, alternates between admitting either men or women, depending on the month.

13. Tsutenkaku

At 103m (338ft), Tsutenkaku Tower was once dubbed the tallest structure in the Orient – obviously some time ago. This tower, surrounded by an amusement park, is today overshadowed by the surrounding skyscrapers, though it still manages to stand out thanks to its gaudy lights, which feature public-service announcements and advertisements, as well as weather forecasts.

14. Abeno Harukas

One of the skyscrapers that overshadows Tsutenkaku Tower is Abeno Harukas, the tallest building in Japan. Abeno Harukas was given its title in 2014 and contains a train station, shopping centre, art museum, hotel, offices and more. Its most exciting feature is arguably the Harukas 300, a three-floor observation deck and open-air atrium, from which you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the city.

15. Osaka Castle

16. Universal Studios Japan

Amusement Park

This beloved theme park, known locally as USJ , is conveniently located just outside the city on a man-made island. It features much-loved attractions, including Jaws and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , as well as exclusive ones such as Cool Japan. At USJ, visitors can pose for pictures with Hello Kitty, become a Monster Hunter or a Sailor Scout in one of the 4D experiences, and run away from zombies during Halloween.

17. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

18. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel

Just outside of the aquarium is the world’s former tallest Ferris wheel, named, ironically, after Japan’s smallest mountain across the street. The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel stands 112.5m (369ft) and offers stunning views of many of the city’s famous landmarks – that is, if you’re willing to brave the 17-minute ride.

19. Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street

This is longest shotengai (covered shopping arcade) in Japan, offering insight into the daily hustle and bustle of Japanese business. Spanning multiple kilometres and neighbourhoods, Tenjinbashisuji features a wealth of shops, restaurants, cafes and bookstores. Stroll along, no matter what the weather, and enjoy all the delicious food, souvenirs and other goods Osaka has to offer.

20. Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

This charming museum , located near one end of Tenjinbashisuji, is one of Osaka’s best museums thanks to its interactive exhibits. You can walk through a life-sized replica of Edo-period Japan, dressed in a kimono, and explore traditional homes, buildings and streets. Daytime and nighttime are both simulated in the village as you stroll.

21. Osaka Tenmangu

On the other end of Tenjinbashisuji is one of Osaka’s most famous shrines, Osaka Tenmangu . This shrine is more than 1,000 years old, and the site of Osaka’s biggest and most famous annual festival, the Tenjin Matsuri . It’s never too crowded or noisy, despite its location in a business district, and this makes the beautiful grounds feel all the more sacred.

22. Expo '70 Commemorative Park

In 1970, Osaka hosted the World Expo and this park lives on as a commemoration of the event. Ba npakku Kinen Koen ( Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in English) is a huge space with facilities ranging from a Japanese garden to the Tower of the Sun, a bird-like structure that was symbolic of the expo. There is also a folk-craft museum, and the National Museum of Ethnology, which showcases world cultures.

23. Sumiyoshi Taisha

Head to Sumiyoshi Taisha for a more spiritual experience. Visit the rare Shintō shrine and the picturesque Taiko Drum bridge leading up to the main entrance. Ringing in the new year in Osaka? Watch crowds of thousands gather here to pray on New Year’s Day.

24. Nakanoshima Park

This stretch of green, near Umeda in Osaka’s busy business district, divides two rivers and is home to the city’s first public park. Established in 1891, Nakanoshima Park has long been an escape for residents of the city, who find zen in its rose garden, with more than 300 varieties of the flower, and enjoy great views of the adjacent rivers. Time it right and get stuck into group yoga and dance practice – or, failing that, pack a picnic.

25. Umeda Sky Building

Want the best views of downtown? The Umeda Sky Building is a must-visit in Osaka. Climb to the top (or jump in the lift) to scale one of the 40-storey towers, which are connected by a “floating observatory”. Here, you can enter via a tunnel-like escalator surrounded by glass. Afraid of heights? There is also an underground market in the basement that recreates the atmosphere of early 20th-century Osaka.

26. Mino Park

Forest, Park

Mandi Keighran contributed additional reporting to this article.

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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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17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

12 best things to do at mount fuji, japan, renting a car in japan in 2024: all you need to know.

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Home » Asia » Japan » Osaka

19 BEST Places to Visit in Osaka (2024)

When I visited Japan, Osaka wasn’t initially on my list, I was more interested in the bustling city of Tokyo, or the ancient capital of Kyoto. Through chance, I ended up in Osaka and was truly taken back by it’s unique character.

Osaka is Japan’s foodie hotspot, and home to amazing castles, vibrant markets, and a great underground nightlife. Not to mention, Osaka’n people pride themselves on being the friendlist city in Japan, and it shows! 

Besides making friends, there are so many places to visit in Osaka, you couldn’t possibly see them all. Which is why I made this guide to the 19 BEST places to visit in Osaka! Lets get into it.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Osaka:

These are the best places to visit in osaka, faq on the best places to visit in osaka.

Umeda (also known as Kita) is one of the main tourist areas of Osaka Japan, with numerous attractions as well as leisure and dining options and nightlife.

• Soak up the glorious sights and fragrances of the colourful flower-filled Umekita Garden.
• Pore over the collections at the small but interesting National Museum of Art, Osaka.
• Marvel at the soaring Umeda Sky Building and then head to the observatory for sweeping city views.

Don’t tuck into that Okonomiyaki just yet. You’re going to need to know where to stay in this dazzling city first. Be sure to check out where to stay in Osaka to get the full scoop on the best areas and accommodation and see what strikes your fancy!

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#1 – Shinsekai

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• This is the downtown district of Osaka and has a strongly nostalgic vibe.
• Make sure you take your camera with you when you visit this area as it looks great in photos.

Why it’s so awesome: This neighborhood is the best place to feel the real heart and vibe of the city.

Shinsekai has a strong attachment to the past and the shops and streets seem to overflow with these feelings of nostalgia. You’ll see countless retro shop displays as you wander through the streets and probably pick up some really unusual souvenirs.

What to do there: This is a great place to wander and just see what you find. Make sure you always have your camera with you during your travels, because some of the retro shop displays look amazing in selfies.

And if you want a high up view of the neighborhood, head down to Tsutenkaku Tower where you can overlook the streets. You can’t miss this building; it looks like the Eiffel Tower and is one of the most visited hotspots in Osaka Japan. Why not find one of Osaka’s best Airbnb’s and make Shinsekai your base for a while!

#2 – Universal Studios Japan – Awesome place to visit in Osaka with kids!

• One of the most popular landmarks in Osaka for tourists and locals.
• There are nine different zones in Universal Studios Japan, so there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
• Make sure you check out the merchandise before you leave, as you’ll find some adorable options you couldn’t get anywhere else.

Why it’s so awesome: Universal Studios is one of the most popular amusement parks in Japan and offers 9 zones of fun including Jurassic Park, Waterworld, Universal Wonderland, Amity Village, Minion Park, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

It’s the perfect place to take the kids or to go with a group of friends for a day of childlike fun.

What to do there: While you’re in Universal Studios, make sure you check out the different zones. This will probably take you all day (at least), so don’t book anything else for that day except maybe a rest at the end of it. There is also a Wizarding World of Harry Potter amusement park that is also a must-see attraction!

The merchandise at this park is also extremely popular, so keep an eye out for your favorite characters like Hello Kitty or Minions!

#3 – The Umeda Sky Building – A great place to see in Osaka if you love architecture

• This award-winning building is a spectacular place to overlook the city.
• The real draw of this building is the Floating Garden, which offers panoramic views of the city.
• Go at night for the best views of the city lights.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is renowned throughout the world for its design, shape, and structure. The most stunning feature is the observatory on the observation deck, often known as the Floating Garden Observatory. The floating garden observatory offers 360 views of the city, which are especially amazing at night.

What to do there: Take your camera and visit the tower in the afternoon or at night. The city looks amazing during the day of course, but there’s nothing that can beat the sight of the sun setting over it, or the night sky blanketing all those lights.

Take the time to check out the design of the Floating Garden and the building too, because it’s amazing and incredibly unique too.

#4 – Dotonbori

• A visit to this neighbourhood is an  Osaka place to visit !
• This is one of the most popular areas for tourists, and you’ll see why once you get there.
• If you’re ever looking to fill a couple of hours, there is usually something entertaining going on in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: Dotonbori is in the Minami area and is extremely popular amongst tourists. This neighborhood pulls out all the stops for tourists, which means that you’ll see some famous shop displays, flashing neon lights, and a plethora of restaurants and cafes to tempt your tastebuds.

What to do there: This area is a great place to shop, so make sure you put on comfortable shoes and take your cards with you.

And when you get bored with that, the food is absolutely amazing, so take a street food tour or just explore on your own if you’re feeling adventurous. There’s always something going on in this area, so if you need to fill a few hours then just show up and see what’s on!

#5 – Osaka Castle – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Osaka

• One of the most important and recognizable landmarks in Osaka.
• This is a beautiful castle with a long and sometimes violent history behind it.
• If you’re in Osaka in cherry blossom season, this is a popular spot for viewing.

Why it’s so awesome: Osaka Castle is one of the most important and beautiful in all of Japan. It’s also historically important as it represents the Azuchi-Momoyama period during the 16th century. It was built in 1583 by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, a Japanese warlord who worked to unify the country and is a legend in Japanese history.

What to do there: Osaka Castle is open to the public, so make sure you take the tour or show up and explore on your own. The area is surrounded by a vibrant neighborhood and some amazing street food, so make sure you take your time in this area when you’re exploring Osaka. And if you’re in the city during cherry blossom season, you absolutely must not miss seeing this iconic sight from the lush, beautiful grounds of Osaka Castle.

#6 – Hozenji – One of the most religious places to see in Osaka

• A beautiful buddhist temple in the busy Dotonbori district.
• If you need a break from the busy streets, then you can pray to the god of protection for safety at this buddhist temple.

Why it’s so awesome: When you travel in Osaka, you’ll probably need a break every now and then, particularly while you’re in the busy Dotonbori district.

And this temple is the perfect chance for you to take that break. It’s a quiet, contemplative escape from the streets with lanterns and moss-covered statues. In fact, walking into this temple is a lot like stepping back to a simpler time.

What to do there: While you’re in Dotonbori, make sure you stop by the temple. You can enjoy the quiet space and pray to the god of protection Fudomyoo to ensure that you’re safe during your trip. And once you’re done, head to Hozenji Yokocho, a connecting cobbled street filled with bars and places to eat.

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Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Amemura

• A lively area that’s taken its cue from American culture in a uniquely Japanese way.
• If you’re looking for the latest fashions, you’ll find them in this area.
• This area is an Osaka must see while you’re visiting the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Amemura is a lot like the Harajuku district in Japan, which is why it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Osaka. It’s filled with young people who wear the latest fashions and sometimes even completely rebel against fashion completely.

To support that quirky lifestyle, this area is filled with fashion boutiques and thrift stores as well as the best bars and restaurants in the city. You may even find some of Osaka’s best hostels here too.

What to do there: This is a great place to grab a bench or seat and people watch. You’ll see a full spectrum of people in this area, from businesspeople in suits to young people in full costumes. But don’t stop there. Wander through the shops and look for something unique to take home with you and then have a meal in one of the many great restaurants. And after, you can hit a bar and see where the night takes you.

#8 – Nambayasaka Shrine – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Osaka!

• One of the most unusual  things to do in Osaka  because of the very strangeness of this shrine.
• Make sure you take your camera to this shrine, or you’ll miss out on the best part of the experience.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re tired of the usual stately, quiet shrines in Japan, then this one will give you a shock. The Nambayasaka shrine is visually striking, with a stage that’s shaped like a lion’s head complete with bared teeth.

In fact, it looks more like the entrance to an amusement park ride than to a shrine! This shrine is also a little off the beaten path, so you shouldn’t have to compete with the crowds to get a great picture.

What to do there: This shrine is the perfect place for an unusual and amusing picture of your trip to Osaka. So, make sure that your camera is charged and go nuts standing in the growling mouth of the lion.

#9 – The National Bunraku Theater

• Bunraku is a type of puppetry where puppets are used to tell elaborate and often historical stories and legends.
• If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about traditional Japanese myths, this is a fun way to do it.
• The shows are in Japanese, but there’s an English translation for tourists so you can understand what’s going on.

Why it’s so awesome: Osaka is incredibly modern, but it’s still managed to hold onto some traditions and this puppet show is a great example of that. Puppet shows started out in the Edo Period and today they’re a popular draw amongst tourists. The puppets are huge, usually controlled by up to three people, and tell myths and legends from the 17th and 18th centuries.

What to do there: Before you arrive in Osaka, find out what shows are on and book your ticket. It makes for a great night out and an intense insight to the culture and history of the city and the country you’re traveling in. And make sure you get the English translation if you don’t speak enough Japanese to follow the show.

#10 – Den Den Town – A great place in Osaka if you love to shop!

• One of the most eclectic and electric parts of town.
• Some parts of this neighborhood and shops aren’t for children, so be careful where you go when you’re with your family.

Why it’s so awesome: This neighborhood is actually called Nipponbashi, but most of the time it’s known as Den Den town, which literally means electric town. This is the technology central Osaka and you’ll be able to pick up every kind of device and electronic good you can imagine in this area. It also specializes in anime, manga, and cosplay, so if you love this side of Japanese culture, you’ll find plenty to do in Den Den Town.

What to do there: If you need anything electronic then the prices in this area are affordable and the range is truly staggering. But you’ll want to visit this area for more than just the computers. Make sure you check out the arcades, maid cafes and other entertainment options. Just be careful because some of them can be a bit risqué!

#11 – The Tower of the Sun

• One of the quirkiest art displays you’ll ever see.
• Designed by Okamoto Taro, a famous Japanese artist.
• You’ll get some amazing pictures of your trip with this piece of art.

Why it’s so awesome: This quirky art display was created in the 1970s in honor of the World Expo, which was held in Osaka. It’s a creature with three faces, all pointing in different directions, and makes for fun and quirky photos.

What to do there: Take your camera along with you and get some great selfies next to this Osaka must-see. The statue is 70 meters high and is one of the more unusual Osaka tourist attractions.

#12 – The National Museum of Ethnology

• A great place to learn about Japanese history as well as other world cultures.
• The aim of this museum is to show the interconnectedness of the world and its peoples.

Why it’s so awesome: You can’t truly understand a place if you don’t understand its history and this museum seeks to encourage a better understanding of the entire world. Through costumes, masks, ceramics, and vehicles it shows how the world’s cultures influence each other in integral and sometimes very obvious ways.

What to do there: This is a fascinating education on the history of Japan and the world as a whole, so put aside a couple of hours to explore it. There are several interactive exhibits, so make sure you check them out as well. The music room is especially popular, as you can play a range of world music and see how the different styles are the same and how they’re different.

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#13 – Spa World

• This is one of the best points of interest in Osaka on hot and steamy days.
• A fun, imaginative and unique park that’s popular with locals and tourists alike.

Why it’s so awesome: Osaka is one of the largest cities in the world which means that it contains a lot of people crammed into a relatively small area. Because of this, it gets swelteringly hot and stressful. That’s why this park should be on your Osaka itinerary. It’s the perfect place to relax, cool down, and enjoy something that’s just plain fun.

What to do there: Spa World is a water park that includes steamy baths with an around-the-world theme. There’s an Asian and European side and they alternate between admitting men or women by month so you won’t know what to expect until you get there.

There are 7 baths in these sections, so make sure you try them all. And if you’re a little shy about the idea of bathing in public, get used to it because it’s a big part of Japanese culture and something you’ll probably need to do throughout your trip.

Need help figuring out what to do and see? Use our Osaka itinerary to gain some insider tips and knowledge!

#14 – Shinsaibashi – Cool place to see in Osaka with friends!

• The best place to visit in Osaka if you want to do some serious shopping.
• This area has everything from designer shops to boutiques and restaurants.

Why it’s so awesome: No matter what you need while you’re in Osaka, you’ll be able to find it in this area. Shinsaibashi has numerous shopping malls and boutiques. This includes the famous Shinsaibashi-suji, which is a 600m long shopping arcade that contains hundreds of shops and boutiques.

What to do there: You can’t travel to Osaka without doing some serious shopping and there are so many options for that in this area that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Check out the boutiques and designer labels in this area but also spend some time exploring the sheer variety of shops. You’ll see drug stores and various shops as well as some great restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy your spoils!

#15 – Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum – A great place to visit in Osaka if you are alone/traveling solo

• A chance for you to explore Osaka’s traditional art form.
• If you enjoy artwork, then this must be part of your Osaka itinerary.

Why it’s so awesome: you might be forgiven for thinking that Osaka is all high rises and shopping, but it also has a long history and intricate art scene. This museum is one of the best places to visit in Osaka if you’re interested in learning about the art of ukiyoe, a type of traditional Japanese printing.

What to do there: Traditional Japanese artwork is painstaking and austerely beautiful and ukiyoe is no exception. It’s a form of printing the uses blocks of wood and the museum itself is located in a lovely and traditional Japanese house that’s worth checking out on its own.

#16 – The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living – One of the most underrated places to see in Osaka

• This is an open-air museum that contains models of traditional houses and buildings.
• A fascinating look into Japan’s past and its present as well!

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is one of the most popular in the city and you could spend hours exploring the displays and dreaming about the past. It contains replicas of structures from the Edo Period, which spanned the 17th to the 19th centuries. Most of these buildings didn’t survive to the present day of course but learning about what the city used to look like is an eye-opening experience.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in history, then this is a great place to start your education in Japanese history. It will give you a detailed idea of what life used to be like for people in Osaka. And if you really want to get into the spirit of the museum, you can dress up in a Japanese kimono and really be part of the experience!

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#17 – Abeno Harukas

• The tallest building in Osaka and in Japan as well!
• The observation deck at the top of the building gives panoramic views of the city.
• There are also a range of other entertainment options in the building including a museum, department store, and cafes.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to take pictures of the city from on high then this is the best location to do this. This building is one of the most recognizable and popular landmarks in Osaka and is the tallest building in all of Japan at the same time. The views from the observation deck are simply spectacular and worth the trip.

What to do there: Go to the observation deck first. If you can, visit at night or at sunset for the most amazing views of the city. Afterwards, you can explore the building. There’s a charming café on the fifth floor if you want a snack or a coffee, and you can also explore the shops, restaurants, and museums contained in the rest of the building.

#18 – The Tempozan Ferris Wheel

• One of the most iconic sights in Osaka.
• Located on the edge of Osaka Bay, which makes for some amazing views.

Why it’s so awesome: This Ferris wheel is the perfect place to take in all of Osaka as well as the view over the water. It was once the tallest in the world but has since been overtaken by other wheels. That doesn’t take anything away from the amazing views and experience of seeing Osaka City from this vantage point though.

What to do there: The best time to take a ride on this Ferris wheel is at night. The views during the day, particularly on clear days, are spectacular, but at night the wheel is lit up and the sight of the city’s lights are something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

If you’re travelling with kids, the Legoland discovery center is right across from the Ferris wheel and is super cool to visit!

#19 – Osaka International Peace Center – A fascinating educational place to visit in Osaka

• The galleries here were built to educate the public on the importance of peace and to remember those who lost their lives because of war.
• Some of the displays are quite graphic, so be wary of taking kids to see them.

Why it’s so awesome: Walking around Osaka International Peace Center, you could forget that it was almost razed to the ground during the Second World War.

That war had a heavy toll on every country involved and this memorial remembers that and acts as a warning against the same behavior in the future as well.

Some of the galleries are quite dark and dedicated to the bombings during the Second World War, so prepare yourself before you go exploring.

What to do there: One of the most important things about traveling is the fact that it encourages you to see things through other perspectives. These galleries are a chance for you to see the Second World War through this unique perspective and to more fully understand the toll it took on the entire world.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Osaka City.

What is Osaka best known for?

Osaka is best known as a coming together of old and new in a small but quirky city. Head to the Umeda first to get a taste of what it’s all about.

What are the best places to visit in Osaka?

Get snap happy in the Shinsekai area of the city, it’s the oldest part of Osaka and is overflowing with nostalgia and retro vibes.

What are some unique things to do in Osaka?

Look up and the strange and surreal architecture of the Umeda Sky Building from both below and atop it’s beautiful Floating Garden. It’s also got great views of the city.

Is Osaka worth visiting?

You bechta it is!! It offers a much more lowkey but just as engaging visit as more busy places like Tokyo and Kyoto. It’s a little off the beaten track and still feels more local.

Final Thoughts on the Coolest Places to Visit in Osaka City

When you travel to Osaka, you’ll find yourself immersed in a whole different side of Japan. Osaka locals famously talk differently to other parts of the country and eat a whole range of different dishes as well.

And there is a wide range of historic, beautiful, architectural, or just plain fun places to visit in Osaka as well.

So, the next time you’re heading to Japan, consider adding this city to your itinerary, and the best way to do that is with my guide to all the best things to see and do!

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Inside Osaka

Your Osaka Travel Guide

Make the most of your trip to Osaka with our comprehensive Osaka itineraries , our recommendations of the best places to eat in Osaka and rundowns of essential attractions in each of Osaka's fascinating districts

Osaka Itineraries

Osaka Restaurants

Osaka Hotels

Osaka Ryokan

First Time In Osaka

Osaka Districts

Things To Do In Osaka

Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo Itineraries

Best Time To Go To Osaka

SIM Cards in Osaka

How To Get To Osaka

Getting Around Osaka

Eat Like A Local In Osaka

Where To Stay In Osaka

Japan Travel Guides

There are several must-see destinations in Japan within easy reach of Osaka. They all make great additions to any Osaka itinerary. These concise guides provide details about what to see and do.

Kyoto Travel Guide

Tokyo Travel Guide

Nara Travel Guide

Kanazawa Travel Guide

Hiroshima And Miyajima

Takayama Travel Guide

Where Are These Places Located?

• Open the Osaka map
• You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
• Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
• Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
• If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Osaka Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Osaka guide
• Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Osaka
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka , Osaka to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Osaka's Kansai International Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare flight prices and timings to find the best Japan flight deals
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Osaka District Map

• Shin-Osaka Area
• Central Osaka Area
• Minami Area
• Tennoji Area
• Osaka Castle Area
• Osaka Bay Area

Trip within a Trip: Osaka and Kyoto, Japan

May 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Make your next trip to Japan even better by adding on four days in exciting Osaka (pictured) and Kyoto © EarnestTse / Shutterstock

Senior Director of Content Laura Motta recently spent 10 days in Japan . To make the most of her time in the country, she included a four-day mini-excursion to Osaka and Kyoto – a trip within a trip, if you will, which anyone can replicate.

Everyone goes to Tokyo , and I would never tell you to skip it. But another critical part of any Japan itinerary is that magical Shinkansen (bullet train) ride south to Osaka , and the astounding sites that await beyond. A mind-boggling pair of cities – Osaka and Kyoto – are crammed with more shrines and temples, steel-and-glass skyscraper malls, scenic vistas and world-class restaurants than you can experience in a month, never mind in just a few days. This was my third trip to Japan and my second time visiting Osaka and Kyoto.

Before I get to my recommendations, here are a few practical tips:

• When to arrive: Arriving in Osaka around midday lets you drop your bags at the hotel, rest and then hit Dōtonbori in the evening, when its famous neon lights are ablaze. 
• Getting there from the airport: The spotless, inexpensive airport limousine bus from Kansai Airport makes eight stops in Osaka, which include all of its main train stations.
• Getting around: Japan is world-famous for the ease and comprehensiveness of its public transit for a reason. You can – and certainly should – do this route without a car. High-speed (more expensive/faster) and local (less expensive/slower) trains cover every inch of this region and will shuttle you quickly between Kyoto and Osaka. Both cities have easy-to-use subway systems.
• What to pack: Certainly, your walking shoes and room in your stomach for a lot of ramen. Keep in mind that Japan has four distinct seasons and temperatures vary significantly between them. Check the weather ahead of time – and pack accordingly.
• How to structure your days: It’s tempting to cram your schedule when there are so many things to see. Yet realistically, you won’t be able to do more than two major sites – maybe three, if you’re really going for it – in a single day. This is especially true in Kyoto, where the best sites are far apart and can require up to an hour of travel to reach.
• Take it easy:  Don’t forget to eat, hydrate, rest and wander. And tell yourself you’ll be back.

Day 1: Osaka

Snack time .

You’ve been traveling all morning. It’s time to eat. (Unless, of course, you stuffed yourself en route on the amazing bento boxes you can get at Tokyo Station.) Keep it simple like I did and grab onigiri (rice balls) or a  sando  at 7-Eleven. There’s one on every corner, you’ll only spend a few dollars, and buying local snacks – especially in Japan – is among travel’s greatest joys. 

See the neon

If you’re in Osaka, go see the Glico man. It's a rule. Or maybe it's just mine. This famous animated sign of a runner, arms raised, about to cross the finish line in some hypothetical marathon in the sky, remains delightful despite the tourist crush on the streets below. This ad for the Glico candy company (candy bars give you energy – get it?) has become an informal mascot of Dotonbori , Osaka’s dining and nightlife district. After dark, it’s fun to wander here through the area’s many arcades, claw-machine and pachinko parlors, and shops. If you start here on a weeknight, it’s delightfully quiet.

Insider tip: Arrive before sunset and duck into a tiny side street to Hōzen-ji , a small temple known for its moss-covered statues. I was there when they were lighting the lanterns for the evening – a dreamy experience indeed.

Have a cheap and cheerful dinner

Dotonbori is teeming with restaurants. You can’t miss the distinctive signage advertising takoyaki (grilled octopus balls), gyoza and crab. My favorite takoyaki stand, Takoyaki Yoriyabunzaemon , is humble compared to its bombastic neighbors; there is no 5ft marquee. Inside, you’ll sit on a well-worn barstool while the single cook pours takoyaki batter into the famous round molds and serves it to you still piping hot, and slathered in mayo, barbecue sauce and bonito flakes. A warning: if you value the skin on the roof of your mouth, do not eat too fast here.

Day 2: Kyoto

Bullet train .

The Shinkansen train between Osaka and Kyoto is cheap and lightning fast. This trip is included in many Japanese rail passes , but if you’re paying for a standalone ticket, you’ll pay 1420 yen (about US$10). The trip takes 15 minutes, so slower local trains hardly seem worth the mildly cheaper price. Arrive midday and head to your hotel to check in and drop your luggage. Before you depart, don’t forget to look around Kyoto Station for the eki  ink stamp, which you can imprint into a notebook as a souvenir. Every train station in Japan has a uniquely designed stamp, even if you sometimes have to ask the attendant at smaller stations where to find it.

Stay in style

If there’s one place to splurge on a fabulous hotel in Japan, it’s in Kyoto. Whether you’re strolling under vibrant fall leaves or spring cherry blossoms, or wandering the narrow alleys and stepped streets of the Gion district , Kyoto is romantic, its temples and shrines otherworldly. My choice was Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto , a new luxury property that blends smart contemporary design with traditional Japanese accents. Beside its excellent restaurant – more on that below – the highlight is the hotel's updated approach to the traditional onsen, called Thermal Spring. This vast, moodily lit indoor space offers heated pools and loungers amid beautiful rock formations and water features. And unlike many onsen experiences, this one is a bathing-suits-required, mixed-gender space where everyone can hang out. There is also no surcharge for entry.

Visit the temples

My boyfriend cheekily refers to Fushimi Inari Taisha , Kyoto’s famous shrine with its rows and rows of vermillion gates ascending a dramatic hillside, as “the Instagram shrine.” It’s hard to say that he’s wrong: the site is a favorite among foreign travelers for good reason. The gates are simply gorgeous and – yes – photogenic. Just don’t expect to find yourself there alone. 

Insider tip: Afterward, stop at the charming Vermillion Cafe for a sweet snack and coffee. Sit on the back porch, which overlooks a lovely stretch of forest, for especially serene vibes (spectacular in autumn).

If you still have energy left in the afternoon, head to Nishi Hongan-ji , a mammoth Buddhist temple complex that’s home to some of the largest wooden structures in Japan. After you marvel at the huge lanterns and expansive halls, stop by the brightly painted Chinese Gate, which dates back to the late 1500s. This temple is also within walking distance of Kyoto Station, and can be a good place to start or end your trip.

Day 3: Kyoto

Go for the gold.

Kinkaku-Ji , sometimes called the Golden Pavilion, is among Kyoto’s (and Japan’s) most famous and photographed landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage site , where a brilliant gold temple appears to float along the shores of a serene lake, is well worth braving the crowds for, especially in sunny weather when the reflection of the lake glints off of the temple’s exterior walls. Go early, packing your patience – and you’ll understand instantly why so many people flock here. 

School Bus Coffee Stop is a charming spot for an easy, affordable breakfast or lunch in cozy, industrial-farmhouse-style surroundings. Comforting selections like bagel sandwiches and avocado toast are accompanied by the shop’s excellent, house-roasted coffee.

Modern love

For an aesthetic palate cleanser after a quick lunch, stop by the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art , which houses rotating exhibits, often of contemporary and modern art, in a fantastic brick structure that dates to the 1930s.

Taste sensation

And you’d be remiss if you stayed at the Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto without eating at its elegantly flamboyant Italian restaurant, Forni . Yes, there are pizzas and pastas on its à la carte menu. But I’d highly recommend the tasting dinner, where impeccably composed dishes like sea bream citrus tartare and grilled wagyu arrive on geometric plates and stands. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

Day 4: Osaka

Smart hotel.

After going luxe in Kyoto on meals and lodging, I came back to Osaka looking to save money without sacrificing too much comfort. I wasn’t ready to sleep in a sarcophagus-sized pod or get every meal at 7-Eleven. (Well, not every meal – just a few.) After getting off the train from Kyoto at the massive Shin-Osaka Station, I took the easy-to-use metro to one of the best places I’ve stayed in Japan, the chicly designed, austere-but-comfortable  Hotel Noum , just across the river from Temmabashi Station. The location made transportation connections easy and kept me sheltered from the stark urban rush of Umeda, Osaka’s high-rise business district. Rooms are small, comfortable and spotless; mine had a river view. The hotel also has an airy coffee shop in its lobby that attracts as many locals as travelers. I popped in here for a breakfast pastry and a latte and was ready to start the day.

Window(less) shopping

Even if you don’t stay in Umeda, visiting the neighborhood is a must. Spend a day wandering its cavernous, endless indoor shopping malls and underground food courts. You may never see daylight, but you will find everything from Hermès bags to the best 300-yen (US$2) gyoza you’ve ever tasted. I like to check in on the enormous red whale, which hangs suspended from the atrium of the Hep Five department store, which also happens to have a ferris wheel on its roof.

Enjoy a messy lunch

Train stations are where you’ll find some of the best food in Japan – and Osaka’s sprawling Umeda Station is no exception. My favorite train-station ramen is at Menya Takei, located behind the entry gates for the Hankyu Railway. Menya Takei specializes in tsukemen , in which the ramen noodles and broth are served separately. Dip the noodles into the broth to eat – yes, you’ll undoubtedly get it all over your clothes, but that’s part of the fun. Lots of laundry to do when you return home is a sure sign of a great trip. 

Insider tip : Ask the gate agent to let you through. They’ll make you pay for a rail ticket on the way in, and then may refund you on the way out.

From Osaka, hop back onboard the Shinkansen for more exploring in Japan, or do what I did and catch a quick, affordable domestic flight to Tokyo’s Haneda airport to connect to your flight home.

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

The 24 best things to do in Japan Find out if you need a visa to enter the country Take to the open road on these top drives How to discover Japan on a budget

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7 Best things to do in Japan in 2024

A s a travel enthusiast starts planning a 2024 travel itinerary, Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, ticks all the boxes. It is the ultimate travel destination thanks to its historic streets of Kyoto, savoring delicious street food in Osaka, exploring the religious shrines, or staying at the ryokans . From the age-old cherry fields to the peaceful country roads, this place is a feast for the senses.

Springtime being this place's truly magical venture, Japan comes alive with color and energy, and visitors are feasted on a lot of enjoyable destinations to explore. Its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty offers an array of adventures for every travel enthusiast.

Disclaimer: This is purely the writer's opinion, and might have missed some favorite destinations.

The top activities to experience in Japan in 2024

Whether the avid traveler is a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a nature lover, Japan is the perfect place for their visit in 2024.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has thoughtfully created a list of the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 and make the most of their visit.

• Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto
• Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo
• Feed the deer at Nara
• Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima
• River cruise at Osaka
• Ski at Hokkaido
• Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

1) Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan , is a must-visit spring destination for avid travelers. Considering that the best time to travel is in late March to early April, this holiday and sightseeing place is well-known for its cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Sight-seers should not miss the spectacular Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the traditional Gion District. For lodging, one should consider staying at a classic ryokan to experience the hospitality at its best. Kansai International Airport, the nearest airport, can be easily commuted to thanks to local transportation.

Once in Kyoto, one should also make sure to try out the local cuisines, like kaiseki (a multicourse feast) and various matcha confectionaries. Noted diners like Nishiki Market and Pontocho Alley also rule the culinary delight list.

2) Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo

Be it the onset of autumn or spring, the metropolis of Tokyo, Japan, is always bustling with a unique blend of modernity and ritual. Including Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, this metropolis' main attractions are decorated with cherry blossoms, catering to a panoramic view.

Once in Tokyo, tourists can enjoy activities like hanami (flower viewing) picnics in Ueno Park and boat or yacht cruises along the Sumida River. For an unforgettable stay, visitors can select a hotel in the vibrant Shibuya or Shinjuku districts and indulge in a wide variety of delectable local cuisines, like sushi tempura and ramen at Tsukiji Outer Market, and the food stalls at Ameyoko Market.

Read more: 6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

3) Feed the deer at Nara

Nara, well-known for its friendly deer and ancient religious shrines, it is always the perfect time for any travel enthusiast to visit this charming destination.

Visitors can engage in activities like feeding deer and exploring the picturesque Isuien Garden at Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple, the main attractions they shouldn't miss. Once here, a holiday enthusiast can stay at cozy homestays or ryokans for an authentic lodging experience. There are also sample local delicacies, like Kakinoha sushi and persimmon leaf sushi, at the best diners in the Nara-machi district.

4) Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima

Hiroshima, a Japan metropolis with a resilient spirit and a profound history, is best visited in early April. From the local Hiroshima Airport, courtesy of its travel-friendly communication, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden are the main places of interest that offer serene beauty. Here, tourists can engage in activities like visiting the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the city's history.

One can also plan their stay at comfortable hotels and savor local cuisines like okonomiyaki and oysters from the best diners like Okonomimura and Mitaki-en.

5) River cruise at Osaka

Considered one of the most vibrant cities, Osaka is famed for its lively environment and mouthwatering delicacies. The best time to visit is late March or early April. Once landing at the Kansai International Airport, a vacationer can enjoy their holiday by visiting the main attractions, like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.

Thanks to its panoramic view, travelers can enjoy local activities like exploring the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market and river cruising along the Okawa River. Planning a 2 to 3-day trip to Osaka, a vacationer can book their stay at downtown's trendy hotels and indulge in local cuisines like takoyaki , okonomiyaki , and kushikatsu at street food stalls, and best-eating joints like Mizuno and Kani Doraku.

Read more: 6 Best treks in the world

6) Ski at Hokkaido

Hokkaido, the northernmost island, is a must-see spring holiday destination in Japan, courtesy of its spectacular natural attractions. When hiring local transportation or pre-paid cabs from New Chitose Airport, the best time to visit is late April or early May. During this time, tourists can enjoy the main attractions, such as the vast fields of Shikisai-no-Oka and the majestic beauty of Shikisai Hill.

They can engage in activities like exploring Biei's charming beauty, skiing, Onsen (hot springs), enjoying a relaxing soak in the famous Noboribetsu hot springs, or staying at comfortable ryokans or motels with stunning mountain views. They can also savor these gastronomical delights in local delicacies like fresh seafood , spicy ramen, and tasty dairy products at the best diners like Ramen Yokocho and Nijo Market.

7) Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

Off-boarding at the Naha airport, Okinawa's gorgeous shorelines and rich history welcome avid travelers, making it an excellent destination year-round for all travel enthusiasts visiting Japan. Once here, travelers can explore the lively marine life at the Churaumi Aquarium and the Ryukyu culture of historical Shuri Castle.

They can rest and recoup at beachfront resorts like the Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, or Halekulani, Okinawa, to experience the true essence of Okinawa, Japan. Visitors can also spoil their tastebuds with the local flavors of sample Okinawan soba, agu pork , goya champuru, and rafute pork.

Read more: 6 best Spring destinations in the world to take a family vacation

These are the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 that promise an array of unforgettable experiences for travel enthusiasts. So, avid travelers can start backpacking to enjoy their adventure-packed holiday.