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Food Tours Japan

Eat, Drink & Cook in Japan

15 Best Osaka Food Tours [2024 Update]

Osaka is a city obsessed with food, and there’s no better place to experience Japanese food and local specialities. Enjoying an Osaka food tour is the best way to savour the fantastic food and soulful vibes of this gourmet city fondly known as ‘Japan’s Kitchen’.

I’ve hand-picked the best Osaka food and drink experiences by comparing each tour and highlighting what’s important. Why should you trust me?

Living in Osaka for nine years, I’ve taken many tours and discovered the most delicious dishes and best culinary neighbourhoods. After reading this, you’ll find an experience right for you.

Here are the 15 best Osaka food tours.

If you’re in a hurry, jump down to my at a glance comparison guide .

Osaka Food Tours: Quick Links

• Osaka Food Tour at Shinsekai with 13 Dishes
• Osaka Street Food Tour
• Osaka Night Bites Foodie Walking Tour
• Ura Namba Food Tour: Eat Like a True Osakan
• Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Dotonbori and Namba

Compare Osaka Food Tours: Quick Comparison Guide

• Kuromon Market Food Tours – eat your way through Osaka’s gourmet market

Osaka Food Tour: Best of the Best Experiences

‘  Savour deliciously addictive Osakan soul food around the famous Dotonbori and Namba area on tour 1 . Wash it down with sake and craft beer in backstreet bars on an Osaka street food tour.

Eat authentic Osaka food until you drop in Shinsekai’s secret spots on highly-acclaimed tour 2 . Thirteen dishes, two drinks and fun and friendly guides make it excellent value.

Explore Osaka’s vibrant food scene and nightlife culture on fascinating tour 3 . Enjoy local and Japanese dishes at standing bars in off-the-beaten-track hipster hangout Temma.

Discover trendy Ura Namba, one of Osaka’s best-kept culinary secrets, on tour 4 —an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars in a maze of narrow streets away from the tourist crowds.

Experience magical neon lights and hidden alleys bar hopping on this Namba and Dotonbori food tour. Get a taste of Osaka’s food and drink culture and meet the locals on tour 5 .  ’

Price per person based on two people attending a tour: $ = up to $89; $$ = between $90 & $129; $$$ = over $129. Some experiences offer discounted rates for groups of more people.

1. Osaka Street Food Tour

Discover the city’s best cuisine on this unforgettable private and personalised Osaka street food tour.

• Savour Osaka’s delicious soul and street foods, like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes)
• Explore the lantern-lit narrow streets and alleys of Namba in the heart of Osaka’s food scene
• Eat and drink like a local and learn about Osaka cuisine
• Sample different places to eat, like izakaya (Japanese-style pubs), street stalls and liquor stores
• Includes: A private and personalised tour, 6-8 dishes of Japanese and Osakan food, 2 drinks (alcoholic or soft), a walking experience and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Location: Dotonbori and Namba
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, flexible start time

Book Osaka Street Food Tour >>

2. Osaka Food Tour at Shinsekai with 13 Dishes

Enjoy an unforgettable gastronomic journey with passionate and fun-loving locals.

• Savour 10 delicious Osaka specialities like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls), plus karaage (fried spiced chicken), gyoza, dessert and more
• Experience retro Shinksekai’s neon-lit streets and hidden alleyways.
• Visit five local places to eat: Izakaya (Japanese-style pub), tachinomiya (standing bar), restaurant, market and backstreet stall
• Choose from Japanese drinks like sake, beer, chuhai (shochu and lemon) and highball (whisky and soda)
• Includes: 13 dishes from 5 places, 2 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and a guided walking tour
• Location: Shinsekai and Nishinari
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 5.30pm

3. Osaka Night Bites Foodie Walking Tour

Enjoy a fun and memorable night on this highly-rated small-group Osaka night food tour.

• Savour local delicacies like tonpeiyaki (pork omelette) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), and dote nikomi (slow-cooked beef in miso)
• Hang out with and chat with the locals over drinks at three tachinomiya (standing bars)
• Get off the beaten track and discover two distinct neighbourhoods
• Learn about food culture on one of the best food tours in Osaka
• Optional upgrade: 100g (around 3.5 ounces) of premium Kobe wagyu beef
• Includes: A whole dinner’s worth of food tastings from 3 restaurants, 3 drinks, a cultural walking tour and a train ticket
• Location: Kyobashi and Tenma
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 6pm

4. Ura Namba Food Tour: Eat Like a True Osakan

Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover Osaka’s delicious food culture on a private and personalised tour.

• Discover local specialities like okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and Osakan udon noodles, and fusion cuisine in this lively neighbourhood
• Explore this super-cool and buzzing area of Osaka to see how the locals entertain themselves
• Visit izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), tachinomiya (standing bars) and quirky bars
• Choose places to eat or leave it to your guide’s recommendations
• Includes: Private and personalised experience, 6-8 dishes of local food, 2 drinks (alcoholic or soft), walking tour and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Location: Ura Namba (area between Osaka-Namba and Nippombashi stations)

Book Ura Namba Food Tour >>

5. Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba

Discover izakaya (Japanese-style pub) food and drink culture with a local guide.

• Enjoy tasty food and drinks among Dotonbori’s bright neon lights and less-visited Ura Namba
• Try local specialities like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls), and classic Japanese drinking snacks
• Visit three different izakayas with a knowledgeable local guide
• Meet fellow travellers on this fun food and bar crawl
• Includes: 8 deep-fried skewers, 1-2 dishes, 3-4 alcoholic or soft drinks, 3 izakayas and a walking tour
• Location: Dotonbori and Shinsekai
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 6pm and 7pm

Book Osaka Bar Hopping Tour >>

Now you’ve seen my top recommendations, let’s continue the best Osaka food tours, including Kuromon Market.

To help you decide the right tour for you, here’s a quick comparison of what’s included, where you’ll go and the price.

All Osaka food and drink experiences include walking tours with English-speaking guides.

6. Osaka Deep Backstreets Tour with Dinner

Discover Osaka, off-limits to tourists, learn about local history and enjoy a post-tour meal.

• Explore parts unseen, including a red-light district, gambling dens, yakuza strongholds, a fishing restaurant, dimly lit gritty Osaka backstreets and more
• Devour delicious Osaka soul food like nikudofu (slow-cooked beef) and tonpeiyaki (pork omelette), plus karaage (deep-fried chicken) and yakitori (chicken skewers) — with dinner option
• Taste local snacks, takoyaki (octopus balls), and gyoza from street food stalls
• Select the ‘Tour with Dinner’ option for an authentic meal
• Includes: A full dinner of 5-6 dishes, 2 snacks and a deep Osaka walking tour with a professional guide
• Duration and start time: 3-3.5 hours, 5.30pm
• Location: Shinseakai and nearby South Osaka neighbourhoods

Book Osaka Backstreets Tour >>

7. Osaka Night Food Tour

Enjoy a perfect adventure for food lovers to see Osaka at night.

• Savour Osaka’s tasty kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) from a Michelin-rated street food stall
• See Dotonbori’s dazzling neon lights and the Glico running man sign
• Visit an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) for regional and Japanese cuisine
• Meet the friendly locals for a beer or nihonshu (sake)
• Includes: Multiple dishes from four food stops, one drink and a guided walking tour
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 5pm

Book Osaka Night Food Tour >>

8. Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

Savour Osaka’s soul foods on this great-value culinary journey.

• Eat delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in their birthplace – Shinsekai
• See the shimmering neon lights and narrow streets on the Dotonbori food tour leg
• Tuck into takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Osaka-style savoury pancake)
• Visit a Buddhist temple and Shinto shrine and get insights into Japanese culture
• Includes: 6 skewers and two dishes (vegan menu available), 1 drink and a guided tour
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 4.30pm and 5.30pm

Book Osaka Local Foodie Tour >>

9. Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

Enjoy the thrill of cycling and a food trip on the road less travelled.

• Savour melt-in-your-mouth grilled wagyu beef in Osaka’s ‘Korean Town’
• Sample delectable dishes like sushi, skewers, udon and chijimi (spicy pancakes)
• Learn about Osaka’s knife-making history and treat yourself to a chef’s knife souvenir
• Enjoy the serenity at one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples
• Includes: Lunch (multiple food stops), 1 bottled water, cycle hire and a guided bike tour
• Location: Shinsekai, Tennoji and Tsurushashi
• Duration and start time: 3-4 hours (approx.), 9.30am

Book Osaka Food & Bike Tour >>

10. Osaka Backstreet Night Tour

Enjoy a fun-packed evening and the raucous atmosphere of Osaka nightlife.

• Eat dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese-style pub) and get to know your group
• Savour Japanese food like fresh sushi, grilled yakitori (chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls)
• See Dotonbori’s neon lights before heading off to some backstreet bars
• Meet friendly locals and have more drinks (not included) until late
• Includes: Dinner, 1 drink, introductions to more bars and a guided tour
• Location: Namba and Dotonbori
• Duration and start time: 3 hours (approx.), 6pm

Book Osaka Backstreet Night Tour >>

11. Ultimate Kansai Region Food Experience

Experience Kansai’s food and drink specialities from the regional gourmet hub of Osaka.

• Try Osaka cuisine like fugu (pufferfish) prepared by professionally trained chefs
• Sample Kyoto culinary delights such as wagashi (confectionery), sake, and green tea
• Savour the mouth-watering taste of marbled Kobe wagyu beef
• Discover the origins and cultures of the dishes you eat and the local drinks
• Includes: Private and personalised experience, 6-8 dishes, 2 beverages, walking tour and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Duration and start time:   3 hours, flexible start time

Book Ultimate Kansai Food Experience >>

Kuromon Market Food Tours

‘  Known as ‘Osaka’s kitchen’, Kuromon Market is a lively place full of delicious food stalls and restaurants. You’ll find all manner of seafood, meat and vegetables along its 580 metres length.

Experience Kuromon Market and eat local and Japanese dishes until you drop on great-value tour 12 . Discover Osaka’s extraordinary food culture and see six different food markets on unique tour 13 .

On tour 14 , you’ll explore the market and sample tasty food before visiting a shopping street for kitchenware. Enjoy Kuromon Market and its delicious dishes on budget-friendly guided tour 15 .  ’

12. Kuromon Market Food Tour

Sample 10-12 Kuromon Ichiba (Market) foods on an excellent-value experience.

• Savour Osaka delicacy fugu (pufferfish) and soul food classics okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Try Japanese food favourites like sashimi, sushi, scallops, wasabi cheese and sakura mochi (rice and red bean confectionary)
• Learn about the market’s history and culture on this Osaka food market tour
• Experience a working Japanese food market and see foods you didn’t know existed
• Includes: 10-12 food tastings (lunch), coffee or tea, unique traditional chopsticks and a guided walking tour
• Location: Kuromon Market (meet at Nippombashi Station)
• Duration and start time: 1.5 hours (approx), 2pm

Book Kuromon Market Food Tour >>

13. Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious

Osakans say ‘ kuidaore ’, which means ‘to ruin oneself by extravagance in food’, and you’ll see why during this fascinating experience.

• Explore six diverse food markets where people shop and eat
• Visit the famous Kuromon Market and the locals alternative Tenjinbashi-suji
• Savour wagyu beef yakiniku (grilled meat) at ‘Korean Town’
• Sample dishes and whatever takes your fancy on this unique Osaka food tour
• Included: 6 Osaka food markets guided English-speaking tour and food recommendations
• Location: Namba, Temma, Tenjinbashi-suji, Tsuruhashi, Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji
• Duration and start time: 4 hours (approx.), 9am or 2pm

Book Osaka Food Markets Tour >>

14. Osaka Kuromon Market Food Tour with Tastings

Experience Kuromon Market like a local on this engaging tour.

• Enjoy various dishes from five market food stops
• Sample fresh sushi, wagyu beef skewers and local treats
• Learn about Osaka’s food culture and way of life from a local guide
• Visit Osaka’s ‘Kitchen Town’, Sennichimae Doguyasuji, an ideal place to pick up a Japanese knife
• Includes: Various dishes from 5 food stops, 1 drink and an English-speaking guided tour
• Location: Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 9am

Book Osaka Kuromon Market Tour >>

15. Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka

Explore Osaka’s culinary culture and discover unusual dishes you’ve never seen before.

• Sample tasty treats like fresh seafood, hotpot and street food
• Try Osaka’s most renowned soul food, takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Learn about the history, culture and cuisine of Kuromon Ichiba (Market)
• Uncover Japanese kitchenware and tableware for a souvenir to bring home at Doguyasuji
• Includes: 4-5 food samplings and a walking tour
• Duration and start time: 2 hours, 11 am

Book Kuromon Market Street Food Tour >>

Well, that’s a wrap! Please, don’t miss out on an opportunity to take an Osaka food tour. Its rich gourmet heritage makes it the perfect place to experience local, seasonal, and Japanese cuisine.

Images: kimishowota ,  Alexander Smagin

The 9 Best Food Tours in Osaka You Need To Try In 2024

Osaka is globally and locally considered the kitchen of Japan, so what better way to explore this incredibly fascinating city, with its numerous alleyways of izakayas and streets lined with food stalls, than to hop on a food tour?

Of course, there is a fantastic degree of flexibility involved when creating your own exploring itinerary. However, the excitement of being taken someplace off the beaten path, with a chance to rub shoulders with locals, while being guided by a knowledgeable and engaging local is just too great of a deal to pass on – and we highly, highly recommend this option.

Below we’ve curated a fantastic list of the top 9 best food tours in Osaka for you to discover.

1. Osaka Food Tour (10 Delicious Dishes, 5 Hidden Eateries)

Keen to discover the food scene of Osaka like a true local? This all-encompassing Osaka food tour will take you to deep corners of this dense city and have you learning about the eateries that only true locals will know about and frequent.

The tiny bars and small few-seated restaurants can be quite intimidating for some to enter, especially if you feel like your language skills are limited. However, on this tour, your friendly guide, who is a well-known local, will introduce you to some hidden gems that will welcome people from all walks of life.

This entire food tour will have you stopping at five different places to sample 10 different Osaka traditional dishes. You’ll also be guided on which drinks to pair with your food, from alcoholic beverages such as chuhai and plum wine to Japanese soda.

Highlight :

• Visit 5 restaurants to sample 10 different dishes at hidden and authentic Osaka eateries
• Visit pockets of Osaka that are normally frequented only by locals
• Learn about the history of Osaka’s food and culture

2. Engaging, Immersive Osaka Foodhood Tour (15 Foods, 3 Drinks)

If you consider yourself a massive foodie, this immersive Osaka Foodhood tour is a fantastic option for you!

Dotonbori and Shinsekai receive an enormous amount of love from tourists, and rightfully so. They’re both super engaging, exciting, and fun-filled areas that are as fascinating as they are memorable.

However, many areas in and around Osaka offer just as much character and adventure and are often without crowds.

Tenma and Kyobashi are two such areas, and this food tour gives them the amount of attention that they deserve. Deep in the Osaka suburbs, these two neighborhoods are brimming with overwhelmingly fascinating food culture and nightlife.

Tenma is home to a huge shotengai, whereas Kyobashi is a watering hole that’s a diamond in the rough – often overlooked and not nearly as crowded as other food streets.

In this food hall tour, you’ll be discovering Osaka by night, skipping your way through tiny standing bars and traditional Japanese restaurants. By the end of the tour, you’ll be full of the likes of sashimi, kushikatsu, seasonal grilled vegetables, and much more.

• 3-hour food tour of underrated foodie neighborhoods in Osaka
• Experience a full dinner as well as 3 additional drinks!
• Learn about the history and culture of Osaka

3. Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour

Fancy witnessing the nittier, gritter side of Osaka? This backstreet tour of Osaka will introduce you to Kevin, a knowledgeable Japanese-Australian who won’t hesitate to tell you more about the unfiltered side of Japan.

You will experience some of the most authentic Japanese eateries in Osaka whilst learning about the history of the region that’s not normally portrayed in blogs. Gain insights into taboo topics and truly deep-dive below the surface level of Osaka as a region.

The eateries you will be taken to will likely not appear on any ‘lists’ online; they’re only frequented by locals and are considered ‘hidden’ – what a treat! Fill your stomach up with 8 different delicious Japanese foods, and then arrive at the final destination, which is an izakaya, for a course meal to finish off the fantastic food tour.

• Indulge in 8 different authentic Japanese dishes
• Learn about the history of the region; facts commonly unknown
• Stoll through the red light district from the Taisho era (optional)

4. The Ultimate Osaka Night Tour

Exploring Osaka by day is one thing, but exploring the neon-lit city by night is just a whole new experience.

In this ultimate Osaka night tour, you’ll get to witness this vibrant city come to life at night, dining at some of the best pubs that Osaka has to offer, and discover some hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise know about.

The guide is a well-versed local, knowledgeable and passionate about what the nightlife and food culture of Osaka has to offer. You’ll start the tour off at an izakaya, where you’ll get to eat an authentic Japanese pub-style dinner.

From there, you’ll be walking the streets of Namba, but not as you know it. Follow your guide through the quiet, unknown alleys of Namba, away from the crowds and noise, and into the joints of the locals.

You’ll finish off at the party center of Shinsaibashi and Amemura, but not before grabbing a selfie at Dotonburi.

• Discover a different side of Osaka – the party side
• Enjoy a full dinner at one of Osaka’s best local izakaya restaurants
• Explore the backstreets of Namba like a local
• Tour includes your first drink at every post-dinner venue!

5. Half Pint Craft Beef in Osaka

Craft beer is a long-time passion of Japanese people and this tour of the best craft beer in Umeda will expose you to a side of Japan that you probably didn’t know existed!

For craft beer enthusiasts, this is the dream tour. It will focus on specific Japanese craft beers and their respective breweries, led by a Certified Beer Server who boasts extensive knowledge of the industry.

For those who are not craft beer enthusiasts, this is still quite a fun tour to engage in. You will come across a wide range of Japanese beers and gain interesting and valuable insights into the world of Japanese craft beer. You may even discover a new favorite beer!

• You are entitled to a half-pint at each location!
• Get insight and exposure to several craft bars in downtown Osaka
• The guide is a certified beer server with extensive knowledge on craft beer

6. Osaka Night Life: Eating and Drinking

This food tour focuses on the neighborhood of Tenjinbashi, one of Osaka’s most famous food streets. If you’re a Netflix fiend, you might even recognize this street from the popular “Street Food” series!

Despite the global attention it received, Tenjinbashi is still relatively low-key, frequented by locals, and devoid of crowds.

This tour will take you deep into the crevices of Tenjinbashi, through its narrow alleys of hidden bars and restaurants, and introduce you to some of the most welcoming hosts you’ll ever come across.

Expect to experience some of Japan’s most authentic dishes, including takoyaki, Wagyu beef, sushi, and ramen!

• Experience nightlife in Osaka, led by a local
• Eat quintessential Japanese dishes at authentic Japanese restaurants

7. Osaka Kuromon Market and Kitchen Town Tour

The Kuromon Ichiba Market is Osaka’s version of the Tsukiji Markets, and, coming from the city that’s known as Japan’s kitchen, you just know that the market will be good!

Taking you through is a knowledgeable local guide who won’t hesitate to point out the best places to sample fresh seafood, sashimi, and produce. You’ll be spoilt for choice, as Kuromon Ichiba boasts a whopping 39 fishmongers, 10 grocery shops, 12 butchers, 7 candy shops, and 24 restaurants!

After you’ve had your fill, head to Sennichimae Doguyasuji, a place where you can witness the model plastic Japanese foods being made. Known as Osaka’s ‘Kitchen Town’, Sennishimae Doguyasuji is also an area you can purchase Japanese ceramics, dinnerware, knives, and the like.

Don’t forget to bring extra cash for all the souvenirs you’ll be purchasing for your home!

• Explore the Kuromon Ichiba Market like a local
• Get insights on the most high-quality seafood at the market
• Visit and learn more about Sennichimae Doguyasuji, Osaka’s ‘Kitchen Town’
• Shop for souvenirs

If you want to visit similar places in Osaka, make sure you check out our article about the best street food spots in Osaka .

8. Nostalgic Shinsekai Osaka Street Food Tour

The gorgeous neighborhood of Shinsekai is as stunning during the day as it is at night, and the best thing about this tour is that you can opt to do it during the AM or PM!

Shinsekai offers a nostalgic, vintage atmosphere to all those who visit it; references to the early 1900s and 1960s can be found along the colourful streets through its architecture, exterior and interior decor, and signage. Despite its neon-lit facade, the retro vibes truly shine through.

In this food tour, you’ll be introduced to some famous Osaka street foods, including kushikatsu (battered and fried skewers), and takoyaki (octopus balls), at restaurants that operate on a 24-hour basis.

You’ll discover some authentic hole-in-the-wall joints that would otherwise be overlooked, and learn more about the food culture of Osaka than you would if you were exploring on your own.

Shinsekai is exciting and bustling during the day, but at night, it truly comes alive with lit-up lanterns and neon signs.

• Discover 5 different food stops with authentic Japanese foods
• Immerse yourself into a retro-style neighborhood in Japan – plenty of photo opportunities!
• Experience the local cuisine, such as kushikatsu

9. Backstreets of Osaka Food Tour at Night

Osaka at night is nothing short of amazing – the frisson in the air as you explore this crazy beautiful city cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world, and Dotonbori is located right in the center of all the excitement.

If you think you know Dotonburi, think again.

This food tour that will take you through the backstreets of the vibrant Dotonburi entertainment area will expose you to a side that you’ve never been to before.

You’ll still get to experience the frenzy of the street, but instead of fighting your way through the crowds, you’ll explore the windy little alleyways, which will eventually bring you to the other side of Osaka.

Sample local dishes such as kushikatsu, cram yourself into a tiny izakaya, clink beers with the locals, and finish up with some delicious local dessert.

• 4 different food stops with street food and local restaurant experiences (including kushikatsu, takoyaki, and seasonal dishes)
• Explore the smaller alleyways of Dotonburi
• Discover Osaka’s retro drinking alleys

Endeavoring to sample all that Osaka, Japan’s Kitchen, has to offer is a big feat. We know because we’ve tried.

It’s an impossible task because there is just so much on offer in this eclectic, vibrant, food-fueled city!

However, these top 10 best food tours in Osaka will not only expose you to the best side of Osaka’s food scene but will take you deeper than the surface level and allow you to learn how it all came to fruition.

We hope you enjoyed reading about these food tours in Osaka, and if you’ve decided to explore the city through any of them, let us know how your experience goes!

If you want to know how to make some of Osaka’s specialities, make sure you also join one of the 5 best cooking classes in Osaka !

Wanna join food adventures in Tokyo and Kyoto too? Check out our selections of the best food tours in Tokyo and the best food tours in Kyoto .

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14 Unique & Fun Osaka Food Tours to Enjoy in 2024

Often hailed as Japan's kitchen, Osaka is famous for its diverse and delectable street food, traditional dishes, and modern culinary innovations. We've handpicked sensational food tours that offer a deep dive into the city's rich gastronomy. From bustling street food to traditional delights and innovative cuisine, sample the flavors of Osaka with us, one unforgettable tour at a time. (Main Photo: Viator)

Osaka Private Night Tour: Dōtonbori & Ura Namba, 4 Hours With A Local

Osaka is a city that buzzes with energy all night long! Whether you're exploring the vibrant Namba entertainment district or seeking out culinary delights in the bustling lanes of Dotonbori , a magical night in Osaka is always on the cards. For a tailor-made nightlife adventure, the Osaka Private Night Tour is your perfect companion. A knowledgeable local guide will lead you on a four-hour escapade through the heart of Dotonbori and Ura Namba , the epicenter of Osaka's electric nightlife . You'll wander the nostalgic Ukiyokoji streets, savor late-night ramen , belt out tunes at Jankara karaoke , and hop from bar to bar , immersing yourself in the authentic nocturnal pursuits of the locals. Within 24 hours of your booking, you'll receive a questionnaire to capture your interests and preferences. Your responses will help pair you with a compatible guide who will craft the perfect itinerary for you. The tour is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to choose the meeting spot and accommodating last-minute tweaks to ensure your night is exactly what you've dreamed of.

• Great opportunity to experience how Osaka locals spend their nightlife.
• This tour is a private tour so you can enjoy the activities at your own pace.
• Itinerary is flexible and customized based on your preferences.

Hidden Osaka - Yukaku Red Light Tour & Culinary Adventure

Osaka is a city of contrasts, embodying the duality of Yin and Yang. By day, it radiates positive vibes, but as dusk falls, a more secretive side emerges, illuminated by the glow of neon in the nightlife districts. Dive into this lesser-known aspect of Osaka with the "Hidden Osaka - Yukaku Red Light Tour & Culinary Adventure." Your local guide will escort you through the enigmatic after-hours scene in two significant districts: Tobita and Shinsekai . Over the course of three hours, you'll venture to places like Tobita Shinchi and Tsutenkaku, areas seldom seen by tourists. The adventure is interspersed with visits to anime -inspired buildings, playful attempts at Enichi festival games , and a jaunt through Izakayas to sample Osaka's quintessential street food. Take the opportunity to explore the nocturnal heartbeat of Osaka and uncover the roots of its enduring energy.

• Explore off the beaten path of Osaka with a local English-speaking guide.
• Take a dive into Osaka's deeper side with insider perspectives.
• Experience a nightlife that is more eccentric than your ordinary night tours.

Osaka Food Market Tour

Osaka has earned its nickname "the city of Kuidaore," which translates to "eat until you drop," for good reason. Culinary delights are woven into the very fabric of Osaka's culture, and every street corner offers an array of mouth-watering local fare. For food enthusiasts eager to get to the heart of this epicurean excitement, the Kuromon market is an absolute must-see. To truly savor the Kuromon Market, consider joining the Osaka Food Market Tour. Spend three flavorful hours with a local guide who will weave you through the bustling stalls, introducing you to local delicacies that may include Michelin-rated octopus, sizzling yakisoba, and exquisite tuna sushi . Alongside the tastes, you'll be treated to engaging stories about the market's history, its culture, the Osakan lifestyle , and of course, the food. After indulging at the market, the tour continues to Osaka's "kitchen town," where you'll have the chance to meet local chefs. They'll share insights on essential cooking tools needed to prepare authentic Osaka dishes—perfect for those who wish to bring a slice of Osaka's culinary magic into their own kitchens. And don't miss out on the impressive display of plastic food samples, a unique and artistic representation of the local cuisine that's sure to capture your imagination.

• Get a taste of Osaka's delicacies at its best at the city's most famous market.
• Receive insights and recommendations on what to eat and where to find them.
• Meet with locals and get an insight into their perspectives on Osaka's food culture.

Osaka Shinsekai Evening Street Food Tour

While Namba and Dotonbori dazzle with their modern cityscape, to truly experience the heart of Osaka's past, a visit to Shinsekai is essential. Developed in the early 20th century, Shinsekai blossomed as a hub for Osaka's entertainment scene, particularly in the postwar Showa period. The nostalgic ambiance of that era still lingers in the district, with shops and eateries that have served generations of locals. To immerse yourself in Shinsekai 's unique atmosphere after dusk, consider joining the Osaka Shinsekai Evening Street Food tour. Over the course of three hours, a local guide will lead you through the alleyways and backstreets of this retro neighborhood, sharing insights only known to residents. You'll pause at five different food spots and savor six traditional local foods and drinks, each with its own place in the tapestry of Osaka's rich culinary heritage. This tour not only fills your stomach with delectable bites but also fills your soul with the genuine spirit of old Osaka.

• Stress free navigating around the deeper side of Osaka with an English speaking local guide.
• Enjoy some of Osaka's delicious street foods and drinks recommended by a local.
• Find hidden gems of Osaka only locals know about.

Osaka Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl Evening Tour in Uranamba Area

Meeting new people can truly elevate a good trip to a great one, and what better way to do so than by bar hopping? However, diving into a local bar scene and striking up engaging conversations can be intimidating, especially for foreign tourists. But there's no need to worry—the Osaka Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl Evening Tour is here to guide you. With a local guide by your side, you'll navigate through the city's favorite watering holes, from the old-school izakayas of Sennichimae to the sake bars of Uranamba. This three-hour tour not only promises a first-hand look at Osaka's vibrant drinking culture but also offers a perfect chance for newcomers to appreciate the art of Sake. Get ready to make unforgettable connections and memories!

• Meet new people and construct a social network.
• Enjoy drinking and looking for a cultural experience at night that is full of fun.
• Enjoy bar hopping that is foolproof and backed with a trustworthy local who speaks English.

Osaka City, Okonomiyaki Tasting Private Half Day Tour

Osaka is famous for its Konamon, or flour-based dishes, and no visit is complete without indulging in the local street food. Among these, Osaka Okonomiyaki , often referred to as Osaka's savory pancakes, is a must-try. Imagine freshly grilled pancakes packed with cabbage, pork, and squid, then smothered in a luscious sweet and tangy sauce—this is a flavor combination beloved by Osakans. In a city brimming with Okonomiyaki spots, picking the best can be overwhelming. But you don't have to do it alone—the Okonomiyaki Tasting Private Half Day Tour is here to guide your palate. Join your local guide for a 3-hour culinary adventure in Umeda , where you'll be led to a hidden gem inside the Umeda Sky Building. There, you can savor some of the finest Okonomiyaki , grilled right before your eyes—a quintessential Osakan experience not to be missed.

• Enjoy the best Okonomiyaki found around without you having to do the research.
• Have an English speaking local guide assist you on translation.
• Enjoy a taste of Osaka's food culture first hand.

Ramen Craftsman Experience in Osaka

Ramen , the soul-warming Japanese noodle soup, has skyrocketed in popularity worldwide. Each bowl is a symphony of flavors that perfectly complement the fresh, springy egg noodles, creating a comfort food that leaves you wanting more. However, replicating that restaurant magic at home can seem like an elusive dream. Enter the Ramen Craftsman Experience in Osaka—a chance to uncover the secrets behind the perfect bowl of ramen . In this intimate tour, a ramen shop owner opens his doors to teach you the craft. Over the course of an hour, you'll learn about the essential tools and techniques needed to create those heavenly bowls of ramen . While the complex broth is prepared in advance, you'll get hands-on experience with boiling the noodles and assembling your very own ramen dish. This experience is not only fantastic for children aged seven and up, as it offers a fun cooking lesson, but it also deepens their understanding of Japanese food culture. Imagine the satisfaction of savoring a bowl of ramen made by your own hands—this tour promises a unique and delicious ramen adventure that's truly one of a kind.

• Love to eat ramen and dream of making your own bowl.
• Have hands-on experience making your very own ramen with instructions from a pro who speaks English.
• Experience cooking in the kitchen of an actual ramen restaurant.

Takoyaki DIY Cooking in the Heart of Osaka

Takoyaki , another of Osaka's beloved street foods, is just as iconic as Okonomiyaki . These round, savory pancake balls are filled with pieces of fresh octopus and green onions, smothered in a sweet and tangy brown sauce, and then topped with mayonnaise and bonito flakes. They're not only delicious but also a delight to watch being made. The skilled flipping and turning of the Takoyaki on the griddle is a form of entertainment in itself. If you're interested in trying your hand at making these delightful treats, the Takoyaki DIY Cooking in the Heart of Osaka tour offers the perfect opportunity. Hosted at the retro-chic karaoke bar , 7up, this tour provides all the materials and guidance needed to create your own Takoyaki . Over the course of an hour, you'll cook up 20 Takoyaki balls (1 batch), and to make the deal even sweeter, you'll receive your first drink on the house. The bar 's intimate environment is ideal for mingling with locals and making new friends. And since 7up is also a karaoke bar , the fun doesn't stop with cooking—you can take the mic and belt out a song or two, fully immersing yourself in the vibrant Osakan culture. It's an experience that combines delicious food, social interaction, and entertainment , making for an unforgettable addition to your Osaka adventure.

• Get a first-hand experience making Takoyaki guided by an English-speaking local.
• Enjoy meeting new people over drinks and building networks.
• Try doing Japanese-style Karaoke in a unique atmosphere.

Tea Ceremony experience in Osaka Dotonbori

Dotonbori is indeed known as the lively heart of Osaka, where the streets are alive with an array of food stalls, bustling shops, and vibrant entertainment options. Yet amidst this energetic atmosphere, there lies an oasis of calm where one can immerse themselves in the traditional Japanese art of tea. The Tea Ceremony Experience in Osaka Dotonbori tour invites you to step into a world of tranquility and cultural richness. Led by a professional with over a decade of experience, this approximately 45-minute session allows you to partake in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony . It's not just about enjoying the soothing qualities of green tea; you'll also savor exquisite Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets ), gain insights into the history and culture surrounding the tea ceremony , and learn the proper etiquettes of this elegant practice. This tour is perfect for those looking to balance the excitement of Dotonbori with a peaceful interlude. If you need to set aside a moment of serenity in between your whirlwind trip, take this opportunity to find your peace of mind while you sip on some marvelous green tea inside a cultural atmosphere.

• Enjoy a more traditional and cultural experience in Osaka.
• Authentic tea ceremony conducted by a professional who speaks English.
• Enjoy delicious green tea with Wagashi in a peaceful environment.

3-Hour Osaka Local Food Hopping Tour in Namba

In Osaka's Namba district, nightlife may be known for its focus on drinks, but for those who are more passionate about food, Namba is a treasure trove. The area is filled with local eateries that serve up delectable local dishes, making it an ideal destination for food lovers to indulge in the full culinary experience of Osaka. If you're looking to combine a taste of Osaka's fantastic nightlife with a foodie adventure, consider the 3-Hour Osaka Local Food Hopping Tour in Namba . This tour lasts for three hours and takes you into the city after dark, hopping from one top-notch restaurant and izakaya to another. You'll get to try some of Osaka's famous dishes such as Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki . While you sample a variety of foods, you'll also be enriched with historical and cultural insights, ensuring that you leave with both a satisfied appetite and new knowledge. Namba 's vibrant nightlife creates a lively atmosphere that welcomes everyone to join in the fun. The tour offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in this vibe while enjoying delicious local food and drinks. It's a fantastic way to experience the charm of Osaka's food culture and nightlife with family and friends, and to create lasting memories of your trip.

• Discover what makes Osaka the "City of Food"
• Experience the nightlife of Osaka with a trustworthy local English-speaking guide who will give you perfect recommendations.

Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

For those who have a passion for both food and cycling, Osaka offers a unique opportunity to blend these two joys together. Imagine embarking on a journey where you can pedal through the city and simultaneously savor the culinary delights that Osaka is famous for. The Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour is an exciting option that caters to this very idea. Over the course of 3 to 4 hours, you'll be accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking local guide who will lead you on a cycling adventure through the heart of Osaka, with a focus on the southern parts of the city. As you ride, you'll get to visit local markets, interact with residents, and indulge in an array of local specialties. From slurping udon noodles to tasting fresh sushi , enjoying the luxury of Wagyu beef, snacking on skewers, and trying out chijimi pancakes, your taste buds are in for a treat. This tour is a fantastic way to break away from the usual sightseeing routine. You'll get fresh air, exercise, and a deep dive into the rich food culture that Osaka has to offer. It's a perfect blend of adventure and gastronomy, a chance to create memorable experiences as you navigate through the city's vibrant streets. Why not add a bit of pedal power to your exploration and discover the hidden culinary treasures of Osaka?

• Combine the joy of cycling and delicious discoveries in a foodie tour.
• Access a bigger radius of the city more freely than using public transport.
• Explore off-the-beaten-path areas with an English-speaking local guide and sample unique Osaka delicacies.

Deep Dive: Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious!

Indeed, while Kuromon Market may be the most renowned food market in Osaka, the city's culinary landscape extends far beyond this single location. Osaka is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of markets that each contribute to the city's rich food culture. From the underground food halls known as "Depachika" found in department stores to the bustling "Shotengai" or shopping streets, there's an abundance of spots to explore for those seeking unique and delicious experiences. For foodies looking to delve deeper into Osaka's market scene, the Deep Dive: Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious tour is an excellent choice. During this 4-hour journey, a local guide will introduce you to a variety of markets, including some that are lesser-known to tourists. You'll have the chance to visit places like Tsuruhashi Ichiba in Korean Town, the long Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, and Pulala Tenma, among others. Each destination on the tour is brimming with character and plays a significant role in showcasing the different facets of Osaka's food culture. This tour is an opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the local cuisine and to make some delicious discoveries that are truly unique to Osaka. If you're eager for an in-depth gastronomic adventure, this tour promises to be an unforgettable part of your culinary exploration in the city.

• Explore Osaka's food scene beyond the Kuromon Market.
• Get recommendations from a local English-speaking guide on the best places to eat and what to try.
• Visit destinations that are not in your guide books.

Takoyaki cooking experience in Osaka bay by cruise

Takoyaki , the renowned octopus ball snack of Osaka, is traditionally enjoyed at street stalls or izakayas, offering a taste of the city's classic street food culture. However, for those seeking a twist on this beloved snack and a truly memorable experience, the Takoyaki Cooking Experience in Osaka Bay by Cruise Tour presents a playful and romantic alternative. Imagine the unique combination of cruising across the picturesque Osaka Bay while learning to make authentic Takoyaki aboard a private boat. This 3-hour tour offers you a chance to not only indulge in the art of Takoyaki -making under the guidance of an experienced captain but also to enjoy your creations amidst the sea breeze and panoramic views of Osaka's skyline. This experience elevates the humble Takoyaki to new heights, blending culinary craftsmanship with the tranquility of a boat ride. It's a creative and enjoyable way to enjoy one of Osaka's signature dishes while taking in the offshore sights. If you're looking to step outside of the conventional culinary box and create lasting memories, this Takoyaki cooking cruise is an opportunity you won't want to miss.

• A foodie experience that is unique to Osaka.
• Enjoy a boat ride across Osaka Bay and catch some stunning views.
• Get first-hand experience in making Takoyaki.

Sushi Cooking Class in Osaka

around the world as a hallmark of Japanese cuisine , is much more than merely sliced fish atop seasoned rice. It is an art form that takes skill and precision to perfect, and for those eager to uncover the intricacies of crafting sushi , the Sushi Cooking Class in Osaka tour is an ideal opportunity. This tour provides a unique chance to learn from a licensed chef and professional instructor within the welcoming atmosphere of a local's home. The intimate setting, limited to just 8 participants, ensures personalized attention during the 2.5-hour session. You'll start by learning how to prepare the perfect sushi rice and then move on to the delicate art of rolling sushi . Sushi making is a delicate craft, and under the guidance of your instructor, you'll have several attempts to master the technique and fully appreciate the subtleties of this cuisine. After your hands-on experience, you'll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor—a beautiful sushi dinner accompanied by miso soup, the traditional Japanese omelet known as tamagoyaki, and possibly more. There's also the option to enhance your meal with a tasting of Japanese sake and local beers, discovering the perfect pairing to complement your sushi . You may even fancy up your dinner with Japanese sake and local beer-tasting options and enjoy the harmony this creates with sushi . Your dinner also comes with a Taiyaki (fish-shaped pancakes with sweet red bean paste) for dessert, so leave some room to fit that all in!

• Learn how to make a special sushi dinner that is memorable.
• Get first-hand experience taught by a professional.
• Enjoy the cooking class in English and not worry about translations.

Written by:

Hiroko Ariga

Hiroko, a Japanese national raised in Sydney, Australia, is a graduate of Sophia University with a degree in Literature and holds an MBA from the University of Newcastle, Australia. Initially working for a global institution, she transitioned to freelance writing after the birth of her son. In addition to LIVE JAPAN, she is a contributor to Tokyo Weekender Magazine. A Registered National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, she actively collaborates with the Kanagawa government, designing tours around Hayama and Miura Peninsula and is recognized as an official Kanagawa guide. Besides being a devoted mother, Hiroko is a Kimono teacher passionate about Ikebana and Japanese History.

• Area Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi
• Category Outdoor Activities Culture Experience Other Restaurants
• How To: Sightseeing

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10 Best Osaka Food Tours For 2024

By: Author Lora

Posted on Last updated: May 4, 2024

Looking for the best Osaka food tours? You came to the right place.

The vibrant city of Osaka is commonly referred to as the “Kitchen of Japan” and so is the ideal city to embark upon a food tour, sampling the delicious offerings of Japanese cuisine in the city. 

The best Osaka food tours can be found here for you to enjoy some of the best Japanese food available.  

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Table of Contents

In a Hurry? Here We Share an Overview of The Best Osaka Food Tours

Best Food Tours in Osaka

Best Osaka Food Tours

Going on a food tour is perhaps one of the best ways to truly enjoy Osaka. 

Osaka food tours are popular with tourists, both first-timers and seasoned travelers to Japan. 

Here are some of the best Osaka food tours you can take on to get the full authentic experience. 

Osaka Food Tour (10 Delicious Dishes at 5 hidden Eateries)

One of the hardest parts of looking for places to eat while traveling is finding the local favorites, the true hidden gems of an area. 

This Osaka food tour helps eliminate that difficulty by taking visitors to five “diamond in the rough” eateries in the Shinsekai area of Osaka. 

Shinsekai is well-known for its retro atmosphere and preservation of buildings and cultural icons of the 20 th Century. 

It is also the birthplace of a number of popular Osaka food delights. 

This tour moves among the marketplace and city streets of Shinsekai, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of food in a number of different settings, ranging from traditional street food to lively izakayas and more. 

10 different dishes are covered involving a number of food, such as gyoza (Japanese dumplings), oden (a traditional winter hotpot dish), and Takoyaki (one of Osaka’s claims to fame). For a list of more healthy Japanese food, click here.

Two drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are also included.

• 10 dishes at 5 different eating places 
• 2 drinks 
• Participants will be met at a nearby train station by the guide 

Pros & Cons

• All food and drink included in the price so you don’t need to worry about additional charges
• It can accommodate a maximum of 8 people, perfect for a friendly atmosphere
• Accessibility has been considered and the tour is wheelchair accessible

• Only two drinks are included despite visiting 5 places, so if you want anything to drink elsewhere it will have to be purchased separately.
• This tour covers ‘off-the-beaten-track’ local restaurants so it may not work for visitors looking for a more a more luxurious, high-end experience

Conclusion  

This tour is great for visitors looking to experience a range of local and authentic eating places. 

From street stalls to izakayas to the marketplace, this tour will provide a variety of experiences in a fairly short time without the uncertainty of navigating Japanese-only menus or unfamiliar food names. 

Check prices and availability: Viator

Deep Backstreet Osaka Tours

This tour is predominantly a walking tour with some stops at street food stalls along the way. 

There is also a post-tour dinner option that introduces visitors to Osaka’s “soul food,” meaning food that is filling, tasty, and served fast. 

The Deep Backstreet Osaka tour covers a range of different areas with a strong focus on the backstreets of Osaka. 

This includes red-light districts, abandoned districts, and areas that are not in any common guidebooks or tour itineraries. 

Here you can find all our Osaka itineraries:

• Best 2 day Osaka itinerary
• Amazing 1 day Osaka itinerary
• Hidden gems in Osaka

The guides provide interesting information about these areas and the history behind them as well as their place in current Japanese culture. The tour is quite informal with a casual atmosphere. 

This is exemplified through the end of tour planning. 

The dinner plans are quite flexible and it is completely optional as to whether you join or move on to other activities you may have planned. 

• Very friendly and informative guides able to provide interesting information about backstreet areas 
• Maximum 12 people per group
• Stops at street food stalls and optional soul food dinner after the walking portion of the tour 
• Unique insight into interesting parts of Japanese culture and history
• Able to explore areas that some visitors may not feel comfortable visiting alone
• Try street food and soul food
• Doesn’t cater to all ages
• Less focus on food so may not work for those looking to experience a wider range of cuisine
• Not a standard tourist experience, which could be a pro or con for different travelers

As this tour is more focused on drinking and nightlife, it may be best suited for those who are looking for a night out after an izakaya dinner. 

It is also not suitable for children. 

The flexibility of this tour makes it good for those who are open to whatever the night brings.

Osaka Backstreet Night Tour

This evening tour is centered on the popular downtown areas of Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Amemura. 

These areas are home to some of Osaka’s top bars, restaurants, and more, making it ideal for exploring the nightlife of this city. 

Highlights  

This Osaka Backstreet Night Tour starts at an izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub-style restaurant, to sample some popular food. 

These include yakitori (chicken skewers), takoyaki (fried octopus dough balls), and sushi. 

From here, the guide introduces visitors to a backstreet, ‘off-the-beaten-path’ bar where meeting locals and friendly conversation happen easily. 

• Best things to do in Osaka
• Best things to do in Osaka at night

The tour also passes by the famous ‘Glico running man’ sign which is a popular photo spot. 

These are the main pre-decided points of the tour. After this, the itinerary becomes more flexible and is up to the group to decide. 

Common follow-ups include various bars or small, local karaoke bars. 

One alcoholic drink is included. Any other drinks beyond that must be purchased separately. 

• Izakaya dinner 
• One drink 
• Small group – maximum of 8 people 
• Introductions to a number of interesting and unique bars 

Pros & Cons 

• Introductions to local bars and Japanese bar culture
• Dinner at a traditional izakaya – a staple of Japanese restaurant culture
• Friendly and welcoming guides
• Only one drink is included despite visiting multiple drinking venues
• Mostly drinking-focused, only one food venue

The flexibility of this tour makes it good for those who are open to whatever the night brings.  

Check prices and availability:

GetYourGuide

Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

This is a unique tour concept as it combines two of the most popular types of tour – cycling tours and food tours. 

The tour starts with bike rentals and moves through the retro area of Shinsekai. 

It makes a stop at Japan’s oldest temple, Shi-Tennoji then through Osaka’s Koreatown in Tsuruhashi. 

It finishes at one of Osaka’s most famous knife-making workshops.

The Eat, Drink Cycle Osaka tour is done relaxed in Shinsekai, with casual exploring and the first food of the day before really starting the cycling. 

There is then a stop at Shi-Tennoji, one of the first official Buddhist temples in Japan. 

This temple was established in 593 and has a number of beautiful views, ranging from the temple itself to the unique 5-storied pagoda, up to the accompanying gardens. 

After this, the tour will move on to Tsuruhashi, the Koreatown of Osaka. This area is well-known for its food culture, including Japanese food, Korean food, and fusion food. 

The tour will also explore the fish market in this area. 

Some of the food include locally made sushi, wagyu beef, yakitori, and more. 

The tour also includes a consultation at Tower Knives, one of the largest bilingual knife factory shops in Japan.  

• Bike rental 
• Lunch 
• Bottled water 
• Small group – maximum of 7 people 
• Visits different areas and food venues
• Incorporates some tourist spots as well
• Combines food tours and cycling tours, allowing visitors to do one tour instead of booking one of each
• Participants need to be fairly fit to keep up with cycling for a length of time – not suitable for young children, elderly people, pregnant people, people with medical conditions that may affect their ability to do the bike tours
• Some visitors may not like alternating a lot of exercise with a lot of food.

This tour would be ideal for visitors looking to experience Osaka in a different way. 

By combining a cycling tour and a food tour, visitors are able to enjoy a range of places, food, and scenery. 

It is recommended that participants have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.  

Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

This tour explores the popular downtown areas of Dotonbori and Namba, as well as the retro area of Shinsekai.

It combines a walking tour and a food tour to provide the best of both worlds.

The Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour moves through Shinsekai and the famous tower of Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku Tower. 

This tower was once the tallest in Asia and was considered a symbol of the “new era” of Japan. 

It then moves into the Dotonbori district and along the Dotonbori canal, one of the busiest areas of Osaka. 

It also walks through Shinsaibashi-suji, one of the largest shopping streets in Osaka. 

It also includes a stop at the Glico running man sign, another of the symbols of Osaka. 

This journey gives participants a chance to try local Osaka food including takoyaki, okonomiyaki (a type of savory pancake), and kushikatsu (breaded and fried skewers). 

Participants are able to sample these foods as well as take some away for later. 

The tour also stops at a secluded temple along the way. 

• Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu 
• 1 drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic available) 
• Friendly and informative guide 
• Good combination of walking and food-based venues
• Variety of tourist destinations
• Food to sample as well as take away
• Only 1 drink included
• Only three types of food

This tour would be great for visitors looking to explore some of the most popular areas of Osaka with a knowledgeable and informative guide. 

The food included in the tour is very well-known as Osaka specialties, making this tour a true Osaka experience. 

Eat like a Local Street Food Tour

This tour provides a unique and personalized experience for each booking. 

Rather than joining a pre-decided itinerary, each participant is matched with a local guide based on personality and interests. 

The guide will then put together a variety of places to visit while keeping these interests in mind. 

The itinerary will include a selection of both local specialties, hidden gem food places, and venues that match well with the participant’s interests. 

This itinerary is flexible and open to changes even on the actual day of the tour. 

This Eat Like a Local Street Food Tour is a private and unique experience. You don’t have to work around anyone else or worry about food or venues you aren’t necessarily interested in. 

Six food tastings are included in the 3-hour tour. 

The tour takes place predominantly in the bustling Dotonbori district.

• 6 food tastings 
• 2 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) 
• Personalized itinerary 
• Private local guide 
• Personalized experience
• Private tour
• Catered to your individual interests
• For those who like the social atmosphere of tours and meeting other travelers, this tour may not work
• More communication needed ahead of the tour in order to provide information on personality and interests

This tour is perfect for those who feel their interests are often not catered to in standard tours or who are looking for a truly personalized experience. 

A private tour allows you to specify any definite inclusions or exclusions you want without worrying about affecting the experience of others. 

Check prices and availability: GetYourGuide

Nightlife Osaka Food Tour

This tour provides a good mix of nightlife venues and food venues. 

Finding the right balance between bars and restaurants can be difficult but this tour manages to combine the two well.

The Nightlife Osaka tour centers around the busy area of Dotonbori but focuses on the small side streets of the area rather than the loud and flashy main thoroughfares. 

A variety of dishes are included in this tour with four different food venues. 

This tour gives participants the chance to try kushikatsu, takoyaki, yakitori, and tempura.  

This is a good combination of local Osaka specialties and general Japanese cuisine. 

One drink is included (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and the guide can direct you to local drink specialties to try as well. 

The food venues also vary in type, from street food stalls to izakaya.  

When it comes to bars, the tour visits one of the many buildings which houses many small and unique bars. 

The bars in these buildings can seem endless with many bars on each floor of a multi-floor building. 

Visiting some of these bars is a unique and interesting experience, and a great way to experience Japanese nightlife.

• 4 food venues 
• 1 drink 
• Dessert 
• Visits to a number of bars 
• Well-balanced tour
• Variety of food and food venues included
• Unique bars
• Stays in one area

This tour would be a great choice for visitors who want to experience both the food culture and nightlife culture of Osaka. 

The tour is well-balanced and well-designed and should be suitable for most adults.  

Osaka 2-hour Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour  

This walking tour focuses on Kuromon Market, the true centerpiece to Osaka’s title “Kitchen of Japan.” 

The market has been in place since the Edo Period (1693 – 1867) and consists of around 150 various shops and stalls. 

Many of these businesses have been in place for multiple decades and have been passed down through families. 

Kuromon Market was once the main place for Osaka’s restaurants to buy their produce, meat, fish, and more. 

Nowadays, it still serves a number of restaurants but is also popular among consumers. 

There are many street food sellers in the area and shops selling various types of kitchenware. 

This tour consists of a casual stroll through the market while learning about the historical and contemporary context of Kuromon Market. 

It also includes 4-5 food samplings with the guide assisting participants in deciding which food stalls they would like to stop at. 

The guide will provide information and recommendations on which foods are interesting, unique, or special.  

• 4-5 food samplings 
• Tour photos 
• Advice on food and souvenirs from a local guide 
• Participants can choose which food they would like to sample
• Casual atmosphere
• Location has historical and cultural significance
• Shorter than most other tours
• Some participants may prefer more structure

This tour is best suited for visitors who are interested in the food culture in Osaka in a range of contexts. 

It is also best for those more interested in street food and food stalls rather than sit-down restaurants.

Osaka Bar Hopping Food Tour  

This tour takes participants around the areas of Dotonbori and Namba while introducing them to the quieter, more relaxed backstreets of these areas. 

A number of these side streets are full of izakayas, restaurants, and bars commonly frequented by locals. 

This allows participants to get a more authentic experience of food and nightlife culture in Japan.

The Osaka Bar Hopping Tour visits a number of izakayas before moving on to some bars toward the end of the day. 

The foods included are mostly standard izakaya food as well as some local Osaka specialties. 

This includes kushikatsu, yakitori, sushi, takoyaki, and more. 

Food is included in the price; however, it is recommended that you bring cash so you can purchase more if you want to. 

This is also applicable to buying drinks. 

• 8 skewers, 1 dish, 4 drinks OR 8 skewers, 2 dishes, 3 drinks 
• Authentic izakaya experiences
• Visits small izakayas enjoyed by locals
• Range of food and bars
• Multiple drinks included
• This tour is largely focused on izakayas, so visitors hoping to experience street food and other types of food may be disappointed
• Not much of the food is included in the price

This tour would be a good choice for visitors who are mostly interested in the izakayas of Japan.  

If you’re looking to experience the izakayas and bars that locals regularly choose, this tour is for you.  

Osaka All-inclusive Night Foodie Cultural Extravaganza  

This tour covers two areas that are commonly skipped in most tourist recommendations – Tenma and Kyobashi. 

These areas are largely commercial areas with Tenma also being home to one of Osaka’s largest shrines, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine. 

The Osaka All-Inclusive Tour will visit 3 different ‘tachinomi’ bars. These are standing dining bars. 

Both food and drink are served but the customers stay standing. 

This type of bar-restaurant is rarely visited by tourists, making this a unique and authentic experience. 

The tachinomis serve a variety of food, including local specialties and common Japanese favorites. 

Some of the food included in this tour are sashimi, traditional vegetable dishes, kushikatsu, and dote nikomi (slow-cooked beef). 

There’s also an option to add Kobe beef to your orders. 

Three drinks are also included. 

The guide is able to provide interesting information about the area and culture along the way. 

Participants are able to meet and socialize with locals. 

• 3 restaurant visits 
• 3 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), 1 at each stop 
• Train fare between the two areas 
• Informative local guide 
• Unique authentic experience
• Two different areas, three different restaurants
• Three drinks included
• Some visitors might prefer the sit-down aspect of standard restaurants or izakayas
• As the tour covers two areas, there is a short train journey as well

This tour provides a unique experience as tachinomis are often skipped in food tours and the areas of Kyobashi and Tenma aren’t considered tourist hotspots. 

The stalls visited are small, local businesses with great care put into the food. 

This is a great tour for experiencing a range of food in an authentic setting.

Here you can find all our Osaka accommodations posts:

• Where to stay in Osaka
• Best ryokans in Osaka
• How to find the best Airbnb in Osaka

Conclusion 

With thousands of restaurants offering a huge variety of different food, it can be hard to narrow down which places to visit to have the best Japanese food experiences. 

Trying to locate authentic eating places while making the most of both local specialties and general Japanese cuisine can be overwhelming for even a seasoned traveler. 

Taking one of Osaka’s best food tours is a perfect way to get a range of experiences and try various Japanese food in an interesting setting. 

If you are looking for an overview of delicious Japanese street food, click here.

Here you can find all our Japan posts.

13 BEST Food Tours in Osaka, Japan

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Get ready to have your stomach rumbling: from back alley street food tours to dining with Yakuza, these are the best food tours in Osaka!

Endless streets of neon lights, vibrant culture, incredible nightlife, and probably the best street food in the world: Osaka is an incredible city! The food game here is so strong that Osaka is actually known as the nation’s kitchen.

If you’ve visited my site before, you’re probably aware that I’m a big fan of trying the local cuisine. I just love getting to know a country through my taste-buds! It’s honestly the best way of getting to know a city. That’s why I have created this epic list of the best food tours in Osaka for you.

There are so many excellent Osaka food tours to choose from. Start by savouring all of the delicious flavours of Osaka cuisine on the Nostalgic Shinsekai Osaka Street Food Tour.

Then discover where to buy the best and freshest ingredients on the Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour. Cook up a storm as you create your favourite Osaka dishes in one of the incredible cooking classes. Or even spend a night bar dining with the Yakuza (if you dare)!

Honestly you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to foodie experiences in Osaka. So here’s a list of the best ones the city has to offer. No matter which ones you pick, come hungry!

Do you want to eat your way through Japan ? Then check out my food guides to Tokyo and Kyoto ! These are great for planning your trip to Japan. Also, you can check out the best hotels in Osaka and the best day trips from Osaka – this is perfect for planning your trip.

Food Tours in Osaka

Nostalgic shinsekai osaka street food tour.

The vibrant neighbourhood of Shinsekai is an incredible place to visit. Here you’ll find some of the best street food in the whole city.

How better to experience this awesome area, than by taking a guided tour that hits the best vendors? Over three hours you’ll stop by five different locations, tasting delicious snacks including kushikatsu (deep fried skewers).

Over the course of the tour, you’ll hear about the history of Osaka cuisine. You’ll also stop at an epic knife shop and see the art of knife making. This is honestly one of my favourite food tours in Osaka.

Eat Like a Local Street Food Tour

Take a personalised food tour that has been tailored to your taste an interests. If you book this experience, you will be contacted by the agency before your tour date. They will enquire about your personality, as well as any dietary requirements. They will then use this to match you to your guide, who will then hand craft an itinerary just for you!

This is an amazing food tour for people with specific dietary needs. It is also a fantastic way to try very specific foods, or to know the best cuisine in a certain area.

If you eat seafood, I’d really recommend trying takoyaki . These are deep-fried dough balls stuffed with octopus. It’s one of the dishes Osaka is famous for, and I think they’re delicious!

Dine with a Former Yakuza

Ever wanted to brag to your friends you dined with the Yakuza while in Japan? This is one of the best Osaka food tours for you!

First, take a tour of the underbelly of Osaka, walking through the Yakuza area and learning their code. Don’t worry though, you’ll be completely safe!

Following this, settle down for a seafood dinner with a reformed Yakuza. You will be treated to some incredible stories, and even get a chance to ask questions. If you’re as fascinated by the secret life and dealings of the Yakuza as I am, you have to check this tour out.

Backstreets of Osaka Night Food Tour

Discover the buzzing backstreets of Minami on a night time food tour. Popular for its nightlife and entertainment, the food on offer in this neighbourhood is also on point.

Weaving through back alleys, on this tour you will be taken from succulent meats to mouth watering treats. Try the local favourite takoyaki – the stall you’re guided to is so good it is actually Michelin Starred. Unbelievable!

Following this, you make your way to one of the local bars, to enjoy beer and bar snacks. Finally, your sweet tooth will be satisfied when you end the evening munching down on dessert.

Osaka Bar Hopping Food Tour

If you’d like to combine all the joy of a pub crawl with sampling mouthwatering food, this is your tour. Honestly, it is so much fun, and the food is incredible!

Based in the lively Namba district, you’ll spend a few wonderful hours wandering between Izakayas (Japanese gastro-bars) and food alleys. At each stop your local guide will help select unique Japanese dishes for you to try, including yakitori and okonomiyaki.

Your guide will also give you the low down on the local sake, shochu and beer, and how to drink them. Next time you go out, you’ll look like a pro. Kanpai!

Learn to Cook Osaka Style Street Food

Once you’ve discovered the wonder that is Japanese street food, it’s time to try making it yourself! To do this, head to Eat Osaka in the Naniwa-ku district.

The class starts with a welcome drink to make sure you’re relaxed and cooking at your best. Then it’s time for the cooking. In the class you will learn to create local favourites including yakitori, okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), and udon noodles from scratch. Finally, it’s time to reap the rewards of your hard work and dine on your creations. Delicious!

Vegetarian? No worries, the recipes can be tailored to be meat free.

Half Pint Craft Beer Tour in Osaka

If, like me, you’re a fan of tasting local libations while you travel. This craft beer tour of Osaka could be just the ticket!

Spend a fun filled evening hopping from bar to bar tasting Osaka’s best selection of craft beers. The tours are guided by a local craft beer aficionados, who will help you pick beers to suit your tastes. They’ll also fill you in about the craft breweries in the area.

Located in the vibrant northern district of Umeda. If you’ve not visited before, this tour is also just a great way to get to know the neighbourhood.

All-Inclusive Night Foodie Cultural Extravaganza

Spend an evening exploring the Japanese culture and food scene from the inside out on this All-Inclusive Night Foodie Cultural Extravaganza. Hopping between historic and contemporary restaurants, you’ll be treated to mouthwatering food options with drinks to match.

Food on this tour changes slightly each evening, but you can expect to be delighted with incredible options including sashimi and dote nikomi (slow cooked beef). If you’re itching to try kobe beef, you can add this on to the tour!

This tour is based in the Temma and Kyobashi districts. Far from the regular tourist hot spots, you’ll get to experience a whole new side of Osaka!

Food Origins Exploration Game

What happens if you cross a food tour with a treasure hunt? You get the Food Origins Exploration Game!

Unlike the other tours, on this experience you do not have a guide, but rather an app on your phone. Following the clues you will be lead to historically and culturally significant areas around Dotonbori, as well as some incredible foodie locations.

At each stop you’ll be given information about the area, and interesting dishes will be suggested to you. This is one of the best food tours in Osaka if you’re looking for a more independent experience.

Learn to Cook Ramen

Hands up if you, like me, are a ramen lover. Honestly I can’t get enough of the stuff, and nothing is like eating it in a back alley Osaka restaurant. However, the next best thing is being able to create it for yourself at home.

Learn to cook ramen in the home of a local instructor in the Nishinomiya district. In this 2.5 hour class, you learn to make three types of ramen, and you get to make udon noodles from scratch. Best of all, you get to eat it at the end!

Sushi Making Class

If sushi is more your style, there is also a fantastic sushi making class in Osaka. From an experienced professional you will learn how the intricate slices of sashimi are made.

Next up, it is time to try your hand at creating your very own sushi rolls. It can take a little while to get used to, but you’ll be rolling sushi like a pro in no time.

This is such a great class, and it gives you a skill to take home and wow your friends. You’ll be surprised how quickly you pick it up!

Osaka: Guided Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for something a little different, then how about an old-school pub crawl through Osaka?

Surprisingly, the Japanese really love to drink, especially whiskey! I’ve had a few nights drinking with the locals in Japan, and it always turns into a crazy night.

If you want to be shown to the best bars in Osaka, then this pub crawl is a great way of doing. You also get to meet travellers from all over the world on this one.

Expect lots of shots, get-to-know-you games, and an amazing evening to remember (or forget?) If you can make it, you usually end up in a local club on this tour!

Japanese Sake Tasting Class

Spending the weekend in Osaka? It’s time to get stuck in to some traditional Japanese sake!

One of the best ways to learn about sake is through the Japanese Sake Tasting Class. Held on Saturday afternoons in a central location that looks out over Osaka Castle , this is a great way to kick start your weekend.

Over the class you will learn the about the history and culture of sake and its creation. After the class you’ll be able to appreciate the subtle differences between the various types of sake and how to correctly serve it.

So that’s my list of the best food experiences in Osaka. Do you love Osaka food tours as much as I do? Let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Chelsey has lived, worked and studied across 9 countries, and has travelled in 40+. When she is not laying on a beach in Thailand or eating her way across India, she can be found discovering hidden corners of London.

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Osaka Food Guide

It has been said that the people of Osaka spend more on food than on anything else, and the term "kuidaore" ("eat until you drop") is used to describe the food culture here. At the same time, the locals have high expectations towards the quality of their cuisine, and restaurants have to maintain high standards or face closure.

Not surprisingly, Osaka is famous for various local dishes, some of which have attained nationwide and even international fame. Luckily for the budget traveler , most of these dishes are economical fares:

Where to eat

The best place to experience Osaka 's food culture is the neon-laden Dotonbori district near Namba Station, which is packed with all types of eateries along its main thoroughfare and many side streets.

For a nostalgic atmosphere of past decades, the Shinsekai district with its kushikatsu shops and shogi parlors cannot be beaten. Another major dining district is Kitashinchi , a ten minute walk south of Osaka Station, while Osaka Station City itself is a safe destination for the less adventurous diners with its multiple elegant restaurant floors.

Getting there and around

How to get to and around Osaka

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Hotels around Osaka

Experiences around Osaka

15 Best Osaka Food Tours and Experiences for 2024

What is Osaka best known for? Its food of course!

Osaka is popularly known as the culinary capital of Japan, and for good reason. Spend even a few hours walking its streets, and you’ll get a sense of the strong foodie culture and culinary pride here.

With so many bars, restaurants, izakaya, and food stalls offering Osakan staple dishes such as okonomiyaki, takoyaki, kushikatsu, and yakiniku, it’s difficult to know where to begin searching for good local restaurants and trying as many dishes as possible!

The easiest and best way to get a feel for the city’s food culture and maximize your time here while eating and drinking as much as possible is to take a food tour off the beaten track. They’re convenient, and fun, and you’ll get to learn fascinating insights and tips from your tour guide that only locals know about.

If you’re looking for something more hands-on then why not try a Japanese cooking course? Cooking Japanese cuisine isn’t as hard as it looks, and you’ll get to enjoy the fruits of your own hard work.

First time in Osaka? Check out my Ultimate 1-day Osaka itinerary for first-time visitors . Or, if you’re looking for somewhere special to stay, try these 15 Osaka ryokan with private onsen in 2024 .

Daytime Tours

• Night tours

Hands-on Food Experiences

• Eat Like the Locals

Cooking Experiences

Top 3 picks: best osaka food tours, #1 top pick.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Nightlife Osaka Food Tour ✔️ Benefit from local knowledge ✔️ Taste real Osaka street food ✔️ Discover eateries off-the-beaten-track

Locals’ Osaka All-in Food & Culture Deep Dive ✔️ Smaller group ✔️ Avoid the busy tourist traps ✔️ Enjoy local specialty dishes

Instagrammable Osaka-style Food Tour ✔️ Enjoy colorful sweet and savory dishes ✔️ English speaking guide ✔️ Includes up to 8 different dishes

This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you .

1. Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour (Daytime)

Duration: 3hrs | Location: Shinsekai District | View on Arigato Japan

Check prices and availability for the Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour

This old neighborhood close to downtown Osaka was developed in 1912 and modeled after parts of New York and Paris. Since its boom in Japan’s post-war Showa era, the area has become known for its local feel thanks to the many inexpensive food options available.

In this 3-hour tour of the district, you will make 5 stops at various eateries where you’ll get to try different drinks and local cuisine. As you move through the neighborhood, your guide will point out various shopping and entertainment hotspots as well.

The tour departure time is 10:30AM and runs until 1:30PM and is also available in Spanish .

“ I loved the local vibe on this tour. So MUCH delicious food and stuff we would have never found on our own .”

– ARCHIE

2. Osaka Dotonbori Daytime Food Tour

Duration: 3hrs | Location: Dotonbori Neighbourhood | View on Arigato Japan

Check prices and availability for the Osaka Dotonbori Daytime Food Tour

Dotonbori is one of Osaka’s hotspots for tourists, known for its neon signs, Gilco Man sign, and huge choice of street food. When the sun goes down and the bright signs light up the main streets, crowds flock to the restaurants and bars to enjoy the atmosphere. The daytime is an excellent opportunity to make the most of the taste of Dotonbori without battling the crowds.

This three-hour tour will take you through the Dotonbori and Namba neighbourhoods where you’ll try takoyaki (fried octopus balls), kushikatsu (deep fried meat and vegetable skewers) in tucked away places you would definitely miss without a guide.

“Highlight of Our Trip? This Tour in Osaka! We had so much fun trying local flavors with our guide!”

– GABE

3. Osaka Market Tour (Daytime)

Duration: 3hrs | Location: Nipponbashi Chuo Ward | View on Arigato Japan

Check prices and availability for the Osaka Market Tour (Daytime)

Kuromon Market is a popular food market street that reaches more than 600 meters through the Minami area of Osaka. Known mostly for its seafood, you’ll also find stalls selling meat, produce, sweets and even restaurants. Many of the stalls sell street food but be careful not to block the aisles as the market can become busy.

In this daytime tour of the market, you’ll have the opportunity to try many of Osaka’s most famous street food dishes including okonomiyaki. From the market, you visit Osaka’s ‘Kitchen town’. You’ll see where restaurants go to buy their plastic food samples and may even be able to pick up a souvenir.

“Toshi as a guide is beyond 5 stars and these two tours were the highlights of our trip.”

– DAVE

Night Tours

4. osaka shinsekai street food tour (evening).

Check prices and availability for the Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour (evening)

As you stroll through the Shinsekai district you might get a sense of its retro reputation due to its Showa-era style buildings and storefronts which come alive at night with bars, restaurants and izakayas brimming with locals and tourists looking for something to eat and drink.

In this night tour you will follow a local guide through the glowing streets into hidden gems where you will discover the colorful history of Shinsekai street as it comes alive through local dishes.

The three-hour tour includes stops at five different sites where you can try the different local food and drinks, each with a connection to the area’s long history.

“Sae was an amazing tour guide! She knew so much history and fun facts about the city! She was also just so fun to spend a night exploring Osaka with! Would 100% recommend.”

– JESS

5. Nightlife Osaka Food Tour

Duration: 3hrs | location: dotonbori, chuo ward | view on arigato japan.

Check prices and availability for the Nightlife Osaka Food Tour

Japan’s third largest city has as much to offer at night as in the day, as you will discover on this nightlife tour through the busy streets of Minami.

Starting in the well-known Dotonbori area, you’ll learn about your surroundings as you are guided past the bright neon signs and commercial restaurants trying to tempt you inside, and taken to smaller establishments you might otherwise miss.

You’ll taste some of the foods Osaka is best known for such as yakitori (grilled chicken and vegetables on skewers), takoyaki (deep fried octopus balls), and okonomiyaki (a savoury pancake dish). Then top-off your night in an izakaya with a beer or sake (rice wine).

“ The Osaka Food Tour was such a memorable evening that we decided to backtrack to Kyoto (which we had already visited) solely to do another food tour with Toshi. “

– C FORNEY

6. Evening Food Tour of Osaka

Duration: 3hrs | Location: Dotonbori, Chuo Ward | View on Viator

Check prices and availability for the Evening Food Tour of Osaka

This evening food tour of Osaka also begins in the Dotonbori area but places a little more of an emphasis on its nightlife. In a group of 10, you’ll see this electric district at night like you’ve never seen it before.

Sample Japanese staples such as sushi or sake, or try your hand at making your own takoyaki with help from a local chef. Eat and drink with the locals at an izakaya and enjoy a drink with some kushikatsu, one of Osaka’s most famous dishes.

The tour is designed to help you explore the Kansai region through its soul food and drink in Osaka’s unique night-time environment.

“ Sae was an amazing tour guide! She knew so much history and fun facts about the city! She was also just so fun to spend a night exploring Osaka with! Would 100% recommend .”

– TRIP ADVISOR REVIEWER

7. Evening Street Food Hopping Tour in Downtown Osaka

Duration: 3hrs | Location: Kita Ward | View on Viator

Check availability of the Evening Street Food Hopping Tour in Downtown Osaka

A must-see for Japanese food lovers. You won’t want to visit Japan’s culinary capital without exploring the downtown area at night. In this three-hour tour you will be guided from bars to food stalls where you will get a taste of local life along the way, including grilled seafood, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, gyoza, and a unique style of pizza.

As you move from food stall to bar, take in the local atmosphere with a glass of sake, rice wine or beer before moving on to the next stall for another local specialty. This tour has a 6PM departure time and includes pickup from your hotel if you need it.

“ Was a fun evening and tried a great deal of the street food. Some of it was a new taste experience but most of it was wonderful. The guide was very knowledgeable and had a lot of energy .”

– JANET

8. Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

Duration: 3-4hrs | Location: Kita Ward | View on Viator

Check availability for Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

Ever wanted to explore Osaka by bicycle as you discover its culinary delights? Well, this might be the tour for you.

A short walk from Temmabashi station, you’ll meet your guide at 10:30AM and be taken around the city, stopping at some of its best-known attractions. Stops include Japan’s oldest temple, sushi at a small locally run shop, tasting real wagyu beef at a busy market, and trying some Osaka specialties including okonomiyaki, chijimi pancakes, and udon.

The tour will include lunch, a knowledgeable guide, and soft drinks. When you’re finished, you’ll be taken back to the starting point to hand back your bike.

“ I enjoyed learning about the different types of authentic Osaka food, and getting to see Osaka Castle was a bonus! On a scale of 1 to 10, our guide Matt was an eleven! ”

– MARJORIE

9. Instagrammable Osaka-style Food Tour

Duration: 3hrs | location: osaka city | view on klook.

Check prices and availability for Instagrammable Osaka-style Food Tour

A modern and creative tour with the added benefit of making the most of the weird and wonderful colors and styles of food you are bound to encounter on your travels.

Indulge your sweet tooth with multi-colored cotton candy or a bright green milkshake, or taste some of Osaka’s best known and beautiful dishes such as okonomiyaki or takoyaki.

This three-hour private tour can accommodate groups as large as 8 and includes tastings of up to eight different Instagram-worthy dishes. You’ll also receive a glass of sake, wine, highball, or soft drink as your English-speaking guide navigates you through Osaka’s busy streets.

10. Osaka Food Tour: 13 Delicious Dishes at 5 Hidden Eateries

Duration: 3hrs | Location: Nishinari Ward | View on Viator

Check prices and availability for Osaka Food Tour

Enjoy ten different dishes from around Osaka including gyoza, udon, takoyaki, and more, at five eateries you won’t find on the busy streets.

You’ll begin your tour at Dobutsuen-mae station, close to downtown Osaka, at 5:30PM. From there, your guide will take you to some of the best food stalls, restaurants and izakaya, carefully chosen for serving traditionally ‘Osakan’ food and rarely visited by tourists.

Then, take in the local culture and bustling atmosphere while you enjoy a cup of sake or a beer at a local bar or izakaya to finish the night off.

“ This tour was awesome! Had a great group of fun people from Australia and the guide, Andie, was entertaining. Food was terrific. Ate lots of new dishes that I wouldn’t have ordered or found on my own. ”

– ANNA

Eat Like The Locals

11. locals’ osaka all-in food & culture deep dive (small group), duration: 3hrs (approx.) | location: kita ward | view on viator.

Check prices and availability for Locals’ Osaka all-in Food & Culture Deep Dive

This three-hour walking tour of Osaka will take you away from the tourist traps and chain restaurants and into the foodie districts and smaller independently run places to eat.

You’ll see your guide at 6:00PM at the meeting point just outside Temma station before your group of six will head to the Tenma and Kyobashi districts for some local specialty dishes to sample. This includes Dote Nikomi, a slow-cooked beef in miso sauce, kushikatsu, tonpeiyaki, a combo dish of port, egg, and dried fish flakes, to name a few.

Finish the night with a few local drinks a standing bar in Kyobashi before heading back to the station.

“ Dominic really knew his stuff and took us on a great tour. We visited pubs and eateries that we wouldn’t have found by ourselves. The food was fabulous and ‘outside the box’ of what you would normally expect in Japanese food. ”

– SALLYANN

12. Kuromon Market Food Tour

Duration: 1hr 30mins (approx.) | Location: Chuo Ward | View on Viator

Check prices and availability for Kuromon Market Food Tour

Kuromon Ichiba Market has been a hub of food and culture near the heart of Osaka for more than 200 years. With countless shops, bars and gourmet restaurants, this covered market cannot be missed if you’re visiting Japan’s ‘food capital’.

Your tour begins in the early afternoon outside Nipponbashi station in downtown Osaka. From there your guide will show you handmade local food and fresh seafood, as you walk and eat your way through more than ten different dishes and desserts, including dried okura, sushi, giant scallops, okonomiyaki, Sakura-flavoured mochi, and many more.

This is a walking and eating tour so be prepared to eat on the go!

“ Great tour with a great guide, Andy was amazing. It was fun! Learned a lot about the local food and also about the food culture. ”

– HAMID

13. Osaka Cooking Class

Duration: 2hrs 30mins (approx.) | Location: Higashinari Ward | View on Viator

Check prices and availability for Osaka Cooking Class

A great experience for anyone who finds their fun getting stuck-in. In this cooking class, you’ll learn about Osaka’s culinary history while trying your hand at some traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

Discover the careful process of preparing green tea, the simplicity of making takoyaki (fried flour and octopus balls), and the fun of attempting your own okonomiyaki savoury pancake. When you’re done, enjoy the fruits of your hard work over a glass of sake or beer.

For dessert, learn how taiyaki is made (a popular fish-shaped sweet cake, as your English-speaking instructor tells you about the history of some of Japan’s most popular dishes.

“ Great class Yayo wonderful Very organized food fantastic loved it a chance to see a Japanese home highly recommend this experience. ”

– SUSAN

14. Three Types of Ramen Cooking Class

Duration: 2hrs 30mins (approx.) | Location: Nishi Ward | View on Viator

Check prices and availability for Three Types of Ramen Cooking Class

You haven’t tried ramen unless you have made it yourself, in Japan. This simple yet incredibly popular dish can be found on the menus of almost any restaurant in Japan, yet with so many variants to choose from it can be a bit confusing knowing what to choose.

In this 2.5-hour cooking class, learn about the different types of ramen, from salted with pork and seaweed, to soy sauce-based ramen with cabbage and vegetables, and miso ramen with chicken and eggs.

Learn about the traditional techniques that go into creating these dishes and try for yourself by making not one, or two, but three different types in a single class.

“ Fumi-san is very welcoming and pleasant to everyone in class. She provided tips on how to make good ramen which was useful. Recommended if one is looking for something different from sightseeing. ”

– STEPHEN

Check prices and ava i lability for Three Types of Ramen Cooking Class

15. In-Home Cooking Lesson with Local Japanese Mother

Duration: 3hrs (approx.) | Location: Kawanishiikeda Station | View on V iator

Check prices and availability for In-Home Cooking Lesson with Local Japanese Mother

A truly unique and rewarding experience. There’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal, and with this private in-home cooking lesson with a Japanese mother you’ll enjoy a meal that you will remember for years to come.

Visit the home of an Osaka local and enjoy first-hand the culture and cuisine of Osaka. Choose from either lunch or dinner and learn to prepare up to five different dishes such as teriyaki chicken, a bento box, okonomiyaki, and gyoza in Yoshiko’s kitchen.

The cooking and preparation portion of the experience lasts about an hour before you sit down to eat. Afterward, Yoshiko will print all her recipes for you to take home.

“ A very good experience with a local mother. Well served and enjoy it very much. You must have a try. ”

– SUKI

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Food to Try

10 Foods to Try in Osaka

Japan is famously a foodie’s paradise. Meals like sushi, ramen, and katsu curry are celebrated the world over. But Osaka is where food is truly innovated upon, and many of Japan’s most delightful culinary surprises can be found. With Tsuruhashi, one of Japan's most celebrated Koreatowns, and districts famous for their restaurants like Shinsekai and Dotonburi there’s plenty to explore. From bite-sized pockets of joy like takoyaki to the wholesome and savvy innovation that is omurice, there is so much food to love in Osaka

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If there’s one food that’s entirely associated with Osaka, it’s the fried and diced octopus balls known as takoyaki. The crispy, seasoned batter on the outside complements the gooey soft inside and is covered with a combination of sticky sweet sauce, bonito flakes, mayonnaise, and powdered seaweed before serving. The balls are fried in a special takoyaki pan, a griddle with spherical molds, and seeing the chef masterfully shape these perfect balls is all part of the fun. Typically eaten as street food, you’ll be able to try these in any of the Osaka arcades or food markets. You can also visit the popular Kougaryu in Shinsaibashi. A serving will usually consist of eight to 12 takoyaki and will undoubtedly fill you up for the day.

Okonomiyaki

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Another of the delicious konamon (flour foods) popular in the Kansai region, okonomiyaki could be described quickly as a layered savory pancake but the endless options for this cheap and delicious staple make it a dish you’ll want to try over and over again. The Osaka/Kansai style of okonomiyaki mixes the ingredients, typically cabbage and pork, into the batter, then is grilled on both sides before toppings and sticky sauce is added. In some places, you can cook the okonomiyaki yourself or watch the chef make it right in front of you. As this is generally a very customizable dish, vegetarian options are almost always available. Like takoyaki, you’ll easily find this inexpensive dish as street food but if you’d rather sit down to eat, try Mizuno in Dotonburi.

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Also known as kushiage, these fried vegetable and meat skewers are said to have originated in the Shinsekai district of Osaka, a district that should be top of any food lovers trip to Osaka. Kushi means skewers and katsu means a cutlet of meat so a lot of the skewers you’ll find will be meat dipped in panko, egg, and flour before being deep-fried. Many restaurants will also offer options such as shiitake mushrooms, quail eggs, lotus root, onion, and eggplant so vegetarians can also indulge in this Osaka delicacy. Dip your skewers in your provided tonkatsu sauce before eating but, as this sauce can be shared with several others, never double dip your skewer. One of the most famous kushikatsu spots is Daruma in Shinsekai.

Pressed Sushi (Oshizushi)

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While sushi is something you can indulge in all over Japan, Osaka is home to one of the biggest fish markets in Japan and has a big fishing culture in general. You can also try the Osaka specialty oshizushi (also known as box sushi): sushi that has been pressed in a mold known as oshibako. One example of Osaka’s oshizushi includes battera which is pressed sushi with mackerel and kombu and is named after the Portuguese word for a small boat. Due to the skill it takes to make this flavourful pressed sushi, there aren’t as many places to try it but a great option is Yoshino Sushi . They also serve great lunch sets.

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Barbecued meat is a real treat in Japan with unparalleled cuts of steak that will melt in your mouth. Yakiniku is thought to be Korean in origin (very similar to the famous Korean barbecue) and the Japanese trend is thought to have originated with a Korean person living in Osaka. You’ll be able to cook your meat over a traditional charcoal grill or a flat teppan cook surface. Both options are equally fun and this is a meal that’s best enjoyed as a group. Typically you’ll pick the cut and grade of beef you want and some vegetable sides to barbecue as well. One yakiniku place to try is Kitahama Nikuya which serves some of the finest cuts of beef in Japan, they also have English menus.

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Another Osaka delicacy, negiyaki is a beloved relative of okonomiyaki but the key difference is that the cabbage is replaced with a ton of green onions resulting in a thinner pancake with a completely different flavor profile. Of course, this is still covered in the sticky sweet sauce and toppings familiar to okonomiyaki lovers. Yamamoto specializes in negiyaki and is said to be the originator of this alternative savory pancake.

Kitsune Udon

This hearty dish translates to fox udon based on the myth that foxes love to eat fried tofu (the same myth that also gives us the name inarizushi ). Thick udon noodles are served in dashi broth and topped with aburaage or fried slices of tofu that have been braised in sweet soy sauce. The deep-fried tofu is also said to resemble a fox when it shrivels up. Usami-Tei Matsubaya is said to be the restaurant where kitsune udon originated and also offers some delicious sides like tempura.

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Though traditionally associated with China, these steamed buns are very much a favorite throughout Japan and the pork bun is a firm staple in Osaka. In fact, over 170,000 buns are sold a day from the popular Kansai chain 551 Horai . Often served with karashi (Japanese mustard), you can pick up hot buns to eat immediately or chilled ones which can keep for days. Outside of the Kansai region , they’re known as nikuman but since niku refers specifically to beef, the name doesn't work in Osaka. Hence the name butaman (meaning "pork bun").

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While yakiniku focuses on fine cuts of meat which are cooked over an open flame, horumon takes the same principle but applies it to offal. Other horumon based dishes include two hotpot dishes namd chiritori nabe and motsu nabe . Innards that are generally used include intestine, tongue, kidneys, stomach, and spleen. These are combined with a number of vegetable sides to barbecue. Considered full of collagen, this is a non-wasteful approach to meat-eating that’s cheap and extremely popular in Osaka. To try a high-end restaurant that specializes in horumon (and yakiniku) with English menus head to Mannoya .

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One of Japan’s most heartwarming dishes got its start in Osaka. It is thought to have originated in 1925, at the popular restaurant Hokkyokusei , when a customer would frequently order omelet and white rice. The chef decided to combine the two by wrapping the rice snugly within the fluffy omelet before topping with a savory tomato sauce. Thus Japan’s famous omurice was born. Several variations have developed since with curry sauce being added on top and various extras like fried chicken or mushrooms.

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10 Osaka Food Specialties and Where to Try Them

1. Takoyaki

2. okonomiyaki, 3. kushikatsu, 4. osaka-style ramen, 6. takomeshi, 7. negiyaki, 9. osaka sushi, 10. teppanyaki, an unforgettable culinary journey in osaka, frequently asked questions.

Osaka, Japan's third largest city, is often referred to as the nation's kitchen and for a good reason. Known for its vibrant food culture, the city is a gastronomic paradise that offers an array of mouth-watering specialties. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, every corner of Osaka promises a unique culinary experience that goes beyond the familiar sushi and ramen .

In this blog post, we'll take you on a culinary journey through the streets of Osaka , introducing you to the city's top 10 food specialties and where to find them. Each dish has its own story, deeply rooted in the city’s history and tradition. So prepare to whet your appetite and embark on a flavorful adventure that will leave you craving for more.

Takoyaki, small, round balls made of a wheat-flour-based batter and cooked with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion, is a beloved street food in Osaka . Originating from the 1930s, it reflects Osaka's creative culinary spirit.

These bite-sized delights are typically brushed with takoyaki sauce, similar to Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise, then sprinkled with green laver (aonori) and shavings of dried bonito (katsuobushi).

Best Places in Osaka to Try Takoyaki:

Aizuya : Considered the birthplace of Takoyaki, Aizuya offers a nostalgic journey to the snack's origins. Their Takoyaki is known for its classic taste, balancing the flavors of octopus and batter with a delectably crispy exterior.

Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae : Situated in Namba, this spot is a favorite among locals for its tender and juicy takoyaki. They masterfully blend the traditional recipe with a slightly softer batter, creating a unique texture that melts in the mouth.

Kukuru: This establishment stands out for its 'Akashi-yaki' style Takoyaki, which uses a more liquid, dashi-rich batter, offering a softer and more eggy version of the classic snack. It's a must-try for those looking to explore variations of Takoyaki.

Learn to prepare authentic dishes including Takoyaki.

Okonomiyaki, often described as a Japanese savory pancake, is made from a batter of flour, grated nagaimo (a type of yam), water or dashi, eggs, shredded cabbage, and various ingredients such as green onion, meat (usually pork), octopus, squid, shrimp, or cheese.

Okonomiyaki in Osaka is particularly renowned for its distinct style, where the ingredients are mixed into the batter before grilling, as opposed to layered, which is common in other regions.

Top Okonomiyaki Restaurants in Osaka:

Mizuno : A must-visit in Dotonbori, Mizuno has a rich history dating back over 60 years. Their specialty lies in their use of yam in the batter, creating a uniquely fluffy and light texture. The restaurant's customizable options allow diners to tailor their Okonomiyaki to their taste.

Chibo : Located in several parts of Osaka, Chibo is celebrated for blending traditional Okonomiyaki with innovative ingredients. Their signature dish, Dotonbori Okonomiyaki, is a flavor-packed creation that perfectly encapsulates Osaka's bold culinary style.

Kiji : Nestled in the Umeda Sky Building, Kiji offers an authentic Osaka Okonomiyaki experience. Their pancakes are known for their rich, umami flavor and perfectly crisp exterior, a result of the meticulous grilling technique that has been perfected over the years.

Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Osaka's vibrant street food scene.

Kushikatsu, also known as Kushiage, is a quintessential Osaka dish consisting of skewered and breaded deep-fried meat, seafood, and vegetables. This culinary delight originated in the Shinsekai district of Osaka during the early 20th century, offering an affordable and quick meal for the working class.

The essence of Kushikatsu lies in its simplicity and the variety of ingredients used, ranging from pork, beef, chicken, to shrimp, scallops, and an assortment of vegetables. Served with a dipping sauce, Kushikatsu is a testament to Osaka's love for hearty, street-style food.

Famous Kushikatsu Joints in Osaka:

Daruma Shinsekai : A legendary name in the world of Kushikatsu, Daruma, established in 1929, is known for its traditional approach and strict 'no double dipping' rule in their shared sauce containers. Their skewers, featuring a light yet crispy batter, are a benchmark for quality in the Kushikatsu scene.

Yaekatsu : Tucked away in the bustling Namba district , Yaekatsu is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its wide variety of skewers and particularly light and crisp batter. Their attention to using fresh, high-quality ingredients elevates the humble Kushikatsu to a gourmet level.

Tengu: This establishment offers a slightly more modern take on Kushikatsu, with a cozy ambiance. Tengu is renowned for its expansive menu, featuring classic items as well as more unconventional choices like cheese and asparagus skewers.

Taste iconic dishes like kushikatsu while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Namba.

Osaka-style Ramen, while less internationally renowned than its counterparts from Tokyo or Hakata, offers a unique local twist on the Japanese noodle soup. Characterized by a rich and hearty broth, typically soy sauce (shoyu) or pork bone (tonkotsu) based, it's often served with thick, chewy noodles. The Osaka Ramen scene is a blend of traditional and modern styles, reflecting the city's dynamic and evolving culinary landscape.

Best Ramen Shops in Osaka:

Kinryu Ramen : With its distinctive 3D dragon signage, Kinryu Ramen is an iconic spot in Dotonbori . Known for its generous portions and richly flavored broth, it offers a classic Osaka Ramen experience, available 24/7.

Ramen Yashichi : This Michelin-recommended ramen shop specializes in a creamy, rich chicken-based broth. Their meticulous preparation and the balance of flavors in their ramen have earned them a loyal following.

Ippudo Namba : Part of the famous Ippudo chain, the Namba outlet provides a fusion of Hakata-style tonkotsu with a distinct Osaka twist. The shop is known for its modern ambiance and the ability to customize the firmness of your noodles, along with various toppings.

Explore Osaka and try this delectable specialty.

Udon, thick and chewy wheat flour noodles, is a staple in Japanese cuisine , and Osaka offers its unique take on this classic dish. Osaka's Udon scene is characterized by its diversity, ranging from simple, broth-based dishes to more elaborate offerings featuring various toppings like tempura, tofu, and meat. The Udon in Osaka stands out for its distinctively soft yet firm texture and the depth of flavor in the accompanying broth, often made from a blend of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin.

Must-visit Udon Restaurants:

Tsurutontan Soemoncho : Renowned for its oversized bowls and generous portions, Tsurutontan Soemoncho offers a wide variety of Udon dishes. Their menu features both traditional and innovative creations, making it a perfect spot for both Udon connoisseurs and newcomers.

Udon Iroha: A hidden gem in the Namba district, Udon Iroha is famous for its Kama-age Udon – noodles served in a communal hot pot with a flavorful dipping sauce. Their focus on simple, high-quality ingredients has earned them a loyal following.

Dotonbori Kamukura : This place is known for its unique combination of Udon and rich broth, offering a different take on the classic Udon dish. The ambiance adds to the experience, capturing the lively spirit of Osaka's food culture.

Visit Dotonbori and have a taste of udon.

Takomeshi, a flavorful rice dish cooked with octopus, is a lesser-known but essential part of Osaka's culinary repertoire. It combines tender, succulent pieces of octopus with seasoned rice, often flavored with a mix of soy sauce, sake, and sweet mirin.

The dish showcases Osaka's love for seafood and its ability to transform simple ingredients into a delicacy. Takomeshi not only reflects the city's coastal connections but also its historical penchant for creative, comforting cuisine.

Best Spots to Savor Takomeshi:

Takomeshi Tako Tako King : Situated near the bustling Tsutenkaku Tower, this restaurant specializes in Takomeshi. They serve perfectly cooked octopus that is both tender and flavorful, combined with expertly seasoned rice.

Ajiho: Known for its traditional approach, Ajiho offers a version of Takomeshi that is both authentic and comforting. The dish here is prepared with a focus on bringing out the natural flavors of the octopus, paired with subtly seasoned rice.

Tako no Tetsu : A popular choice among locals, Tako no Tetsu offers a more modern interpretation of Takomeshi. Their dish features a blend of tender octopus and perfectly cooked rice, infused with a unique blend of seasonings that elevate the overall flavor.

Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through Osaka's vibrant Namba district.

Negiyaki, a thinner and lighter cousin of the famous Okonomiyaki, is a savory pancake loaded with green onions (negi) and typically seasoned with a soy-based sauce. This dish is a testament to Osaka's culinary ingenuity, transforming simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Unlike Okonomiyaki, which is denser and contains a variety of ingredients, Negiyaki focuses on the sweet and slightly sharp taste of green onions, complemented by a thin, tender batter. It's a popular choice for those who enjoy a lighter, yet equally delicious, alternative to the more commonly known Osaka specialties.

Premier Negiyaki Eateries in Osaka:

Yamamoto Negiyaki : Widely regarded as the best place to experience Negiyaki in Osaka, Yamamoto Negiyaki has perfected the art of this dish. Their Negiyaki is renowned for its balance of flavors and the perfect texture of the pancake.

Negiyaki Yamamoto Umeda Store : A branch of the famous Yamamoto Negiyaki, this restaurant offers the same high-quality Negiyaki in the bustling Umeda area. The ambience here adds to the dining experience, offering a glimpse into Osaka's lively food culture.

Tsuruhashi Fugetsu : Known for both Okonomiyaki and Negiyaki, Tsuruhashi Fugetsu offers a version of Negiyaki that is rich in flavor and perfectly cooked. It's an ideal stop for those looking to compare and contrast Okonomiyaki and Negiyaki.

Taste local delicacies and immerse yourself in the area's rich history and culture.

Fugu, or pufferfish, is one of Japan's most famous and luxurious culinary delights , known as much for its unique flavor and texture as for its potential danger if not prepared correctly. In Osaka, Fugu is a seasonal specialty, typically served in the colder months, and is prepared by highly trained and licensed chefs.

This delicacy can be enjoyed in various forms, including sashimi (thinly sliced), nabe (hot pot), and even Fugu sake (infused with the fish). Eating Fugu is not only about savoring its delicate and refined taste but also about experiencing an age-old Japanese culinary tradition.

Renowned Fugu Restaurants in Osaka:

Dotonbori Fugu: Situated in the heart of Osaka's food district, Dotonbori Fugu specializes in Fugu prepared in traditional styles. Their Fugu course meals are an excellent way to experience the different preparations of this exquisite fish.

Fugu Ryori Saikyo Honten : Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional cuisine, this restaurant offers a luxurious Fugu dining experience. Their chefs are skilled in the art of Fugu preparation, ensuring a safe and delightful meal.

Step into the world of Osaka's delicious street foods with this tour in Dotonbori and Namba.

Osaka's sushi scene, though often overshadowed by the fame of Tokyo's sushi , presents its unique charm and flavors. Known for its 'hako-zushi' or 'box sushi', Osaka's sushi style is distinct in its presentation and taste. This style typically involves pressing sushi rice and toppings in a mold, creating layers of flavors and textures.

The sushi in Osaka often features marinated, cooked, or cured ingredients, rather than just fresh fish. This reflects Osaka's historical preference for longer-lasting foods during the time when refrigeration was not available, leading to the development of unique preservation techniques and flavor profiles.

Top Sushi Bars in Osaka:

Endo Sushi Kyobashi : A revered name in Osaka's sushi landscape, Endo Sushi offers an exquisite array of sushi, prepared with the freshest ingredients. Their focus on quality and traditional techniques makes for an unforgettable sushi experience.

Harukoma Sushi: Located in the bustling Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, Harukoma Sushi is celebrated for its generous cuts of fish and wide variety of options. It's a must-visit for those looking to experience the local take on sushi.

Sushi Hoshiyama : Offering a more contemporary approach to sushi, Sushi Hoshiyama is known for its innovative flavor combinations and impeccable presentation. The chef's expertise in blending traditional and modern techniques results in a truly unique dining experience.

Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Osaka.

Teppanyaki, where 'teppan' means iron plate and 'yaki' means grilled, is a style of Japanese cuisine that has gained international fame for its theatrical and interactive cooking style. In Osaka, teppanyaki is not just about the food, but also the experience of watching skilled chefs preparing your meal right before your eyes.

This cuisine is not only a treat to the taste buds but also to the eyes, as chefs deftly flip, chop, and grill ingredients, ranging from high-quality beef, seafood, vegetables, to rice and noodles.

Best Teppanyaki Restaurants for an Authentic Experience:

Teppanyaki Icho Umeda: Located in the Hilton Osaka, Icho Umeda is renowned for its high-quality ingredients and skilled chefs. Their menu features a range of options, from succulent Kobe beef to fresh seafood, cooked to perfection on the teppan.

Steak house Juju : This cozy yet elegant restaurant provides a more intimate teppanyaki experience. Steakhouse Juju is celebrated for its fine selection of meats and personalized service, ensuring a memorable meal for each guest.

Savor authentic flavors and enjoy a unique, vintage Japanese experience.

As our delectable journey through Osaka concludes, it's clear that this city is a culinary hotspot. Its unique array of dishes, from the crunchy takoyaki to the delicious okonomiyaki, perfectly encapsulates the vibrant and rich culture of Osaka.

The city's food scene, as warm and welcoming as its people, promises an unforgettable gastronomical adventure for both daring food explorers and lovers of traditional cuisine alike. So, when you're in Osaka , don't miss the chance to indulge in these 10 specialties at their most famous establishments.

What food is Osaka famous for?

Osaka, often referred to as the "Kitchen of Japan", is renowned for its diverse and delicious food. It's particularly famous for dishes like Takoyaki (octopus balls), Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake), and Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables).

What is Osaka special for?

Osaka is special for its vibrant street food culture. From bustling markets to small food stalls, the city offers a unique gastronomic experience. Aside from its famous dishes, Osaka is also known for other culinary delights such as Negiyaki (a variant of Okonomiyaki), Kitsune Udon (noodles with tofu), and Yakiniku (grilled meat).

Is Osaka the food capital?

Yes, Osaka is often dubbed as the "Food Capital" of Japan. Known for its rich culinary scene, the city is a paradise for food lovers. It's not just the variety, but also the quality of food that makes Osaka a culinary capital. Japanese tend to rate restaurants strictly, making the city's food scene highly competitive and diverse.

What are 3 popular foods in Japan?

Japan's cuisine is incredibly diverse, but three popular foods that stand out are Sushi & Sashimi (raw fish served with rice), Ramen (noodle soup), and Fugu (Japanese pufferfish). While these dishes are popular throughout Japan, each region, including Osaka, adds its unique twist to them.

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Osaka food tours – 7 best tours for food and drink travelers.

Osaka is one of our favorite food cities in Japan. There are so many great dishes to eat and so many places to eat. It can be overwhelming though. Booking a food tour in Osaka can help people who travel for food to eat better and learn more while visiting this food-focused city.

In this post, I share our recommendations on how to book one of the best Osaka food tours. And, I share our tips on how to make the most of your experience.  

*This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my  DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Why Book A Japan Culinary Tour

There are a lot of great reasons why booking a Japanese food tour could make your Osaka trip that much more special. First, there is a language barrier in Japan. Of course, there are picture menus to help you with ordering but we end up with more questions than answers when we are on our own eating in Japan. A food tour will help you learn more about the cuisine. 

This also helps with the second issue, Japanese cuisine is complex and layered. It’s so different from American or European cuisine. By taking a food tour, your Osaka local guide will help you learn more about the culture through the cuisine. 

Last, we love taking food tours at the start of our stay in a new city. It really makes the rest of our trip better. Your guide will give you inside tips on where and  what to eat in Osaka . Over the years, we’ve received great restaurant recommendations from some of our food tour guides.

If you need help planning your trip to Japan, check out our sample itineraries: 

Japan 7 Day Itinerary – How To Spend One Week Eating In Japan

Food Focused Two Week Japan Itinerary – 14 Days Of Eating Well

How To Book Hotels In Osaka

In the 10+ years of traveling to Japan, we’ve learned a thing or two about booking a hotel in Osaka. We’ve stayed at some great hotels like the  Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka  and  St. Regis Osaka . And we’ve stayed at some not-so-great hotels.

When planning a trip to Osaka, we use  Booking.com  for our accommodations. In addition to booking hotels, we’ve used them for  booking apartments  for longer stays. We’ve even used them to book villas and  ryokans in Osaka  when we want something special. We’ve even found some charming and less expensive  guest houses in Osaka  on Booking.com.

See the Top-Rated Osaka Food Tours On Viator 

How About A 12 Day Food Tour In Japan?

If you are looking for something more than just an Osaka one day tour, Intrepid Travel offers a  12 day Real Food Adventure In Japan . It hits some of our favorite food cities in the Kansai region of Japan. That includes Osaka, Kyoto, and  Koyosan  in Wakayama, which is just south of Osaka.

Along the way, travelers learn to make  sushi , eat street food, and stay the night in a Buddhist monastery. These are all food experiences we’ve had in Japan and would totally recommend. 

Check out Intrepid Travel’s 12 Day Real Food Adventure In Japan 

How To See The Best Of Osaka Japan On A Food Tour

A great  food tour  means that you can start to understand Japanese food culture while exploring a new city. It is more than just the food that is served.

It means you have the chance to meet new people, ask loads of questions, and learn about the history and culture of a new city. It’s one of our favorite ways to see a city! In this post, we share our recommended food tours in Osaka.

All pricing is provided in Japanese yen. This helps you plan your budget based on the current currency rates. With some tours, pricing will adjust based on how many people have already booked, how many people are in your party, and the time of year. 

We recommend using  Viator  for booking food tours and experiences. We like Viator for a few reasons. One, we’ve used them for tours around the world without any problems. Second, you will receive immediate confirmation of your booking.

Last, Viator is a reputable company that is actually owned by TripAdvisor, so if there are any issues with your booking, there is a big company standing behind the booking.

Eating sushi at a market in Osaka

Osaka Food Market Tour And Lunch

This  small group tour of Osaka  begins with a walk through Tsuruhashi Wholesale Fish Market. This is where many of Osaka’s restaurants buy freshly caught seafood. Enjoy mouthwatering sashimi surrounded by seafood vendors selling their daily catch.

The tour continues around the market where other local Japanese snacks and seasonal fruits are sampled. From the market, it’s time to ride the Osaka metro to a restaurant in the Shinsekai neighborhood for lunch. 

The tour price starts at around ¥12000 per person depending on group size. It’s a half-day tour, which starts at 10 am. Because this tour covers a lot of ground, you will be using the Osaka metro.

The cost of the metro is not included. (Book an Osaka 1-Day or 2-Day Metro Pass  here ).

Book this Osaka tour  here . 

Why we like this tour:

With a maximum group size of six, the small size allows the guide to customize the experience and improvise along the way. The tour features a number of Osaka specialties including Okonomiyaki and Kushikatu.

Two must eat dishes in Osaka . This is also a great tour for repeat travelers to Osaka to learn more about what and where to eat because it can be customized ahead of time.

We took an Osaka private tour with this same company. Our experience was a little different because they customized it for us. Because we’ve been to Osaka numerous times they gave us a more food professional.

Our guide was knowledgeable and detailed and taught us a lot about food in a city we know well.  

Check Rates For This Osaka Market Tour And Lunch 

Exploring Kuromon Market In Osaka

Kuromon Market And Dotonbori Food Tour

For first-time visitors to Osaka, this food tour provides a great introduction to one of Japan’s best culinary cities. The tour focuses on the famous Osaka market, Kuromon, and  Dotonbori , Osaka’s food street.

Beginning in the famous Kuromon Market, the centerpiece of Osaka food culture, the tour showcases the wide variety of vendors in the market, from butchers selling wagyu beef to tofu and of course sushi.

Eating your way around the market, the tour guide provides insight into the rich history of Japanese cuisine as well as individual dishes.

After the market, the tour continues past a number of famous Osaka sites including Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street and Dotonbori Bridge, where the tour ends. 

Book this Kuromon Market Tour  here . 

Why we like this tour: 

The tour can accommodate up to eight guests with pricing starting at ¥10000. Any special dietary requirements should be made at the time of booking. The tour begins at Nippombashi Station at 10:45 am and lasts three hours. 

In Osaka, food is incredibly important. Sampling local specialties such as yakitori, okonomiyaki, and takoyaki all in one tour, provides first time visitors to Osaka with great insight into what sets Osaka apart from other Japanese cities. With all of these dishes and more, guests will certainly not leave this tour hungry.

Check Rates For This Kuromon Market Tour 

Eating Sushi in Osaka

Osaka Food And Bike Tour 

Explore Osaka on two wheels while enjoying a sample of its culinary offerings. This three-hour tour focus on the south side neighborhood of Shinsekai.

In between bites of spicy pancakes, wagyu beef, sushi, and other delicious snacks, your guide will lead you through local markets.

The guide will also introduce you to locals to gain a better understanding of just how important food is to the residents of “Japan’s Kitchen.”

In addition to amazing local food, the riding tour leads past stunning Buddhist temples and visits one of Osaka’s many knife producers. 

Pricing for the tour starts at ¥9000. While not overly strenuous, the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart, or serious medical conditions. Pregnant travelers are also advised not to participate. 

Book This Osaka Bike Tour  here . 

Osaka is a massive city made up of dozens of neighborhoods. Hoping on two wheels to explore one of its iconic neighborhoods in a small group of seven is an experience not to be missed.

Add the opportunity to sample a number of local delicacies while meeting local residents is the cherry on top. This Osaka foodie tour provides a unique perspective of the city. 

Check Rates For This Osaka Bike Tour 

Osaka Night Tour Through The City’s Backstreets

Outside of the bright neon lights of Dotonbori lies another Osaka. An Osaka filled with illegal gambling dens, intriguing alleys, and areas controlled by the yakuza (Japanese mafia).

Led by Andy, a half-Japanese, half-Australian guide, this Osaka night tour explores parts of the city that most tourists steer clear of. 

During the approximately three-hour-long tour, guests will develop a deeper understanding of this multi-layered city.

Sample delicious Osaka street food while exploring authentic Osaka, bursting with history, and a bit rough around the edges. It’s a unique Osaka itinerary unlike any other.

Pricing to explore this other side of Osaka begins at ¥5600. The tour includes a one-hour all-you-can-eat kushikatsu experience at a vegetarian-friendly restaurant.

Accommodating up to 12 guests, the tour is perfectly suited for couples and small groups of friends. 

Book This Osaka Night Tour  here . 

We like this Osaka street food tour because it’s so quirky and unique. It’s great for people who want something more than the typical food tour.

Best of all, after the tour is over, Andy offers his personal recommendations on where to find the best shopping, dining, and drinking options for his guests. 

Check Rates For This Osaka Backstreets Night Tour 

Izakaya in Osaka

Namba Food And Bar Hopping Tour 

Osaka is an amazing city for food. And with food, comes drink. This bar-hopping tour is a great way to explore several of Osaka’s drinking establishments, which are often overlooked by tourists.

Your guide will help navigate Japanese drinking culture and customs while sampling local sake, beer, and other alcoholic beverages.

Focusing on the Dotonbori and Namba areas of Osaka, the three-hour night tour visits three local izakaya bars. Here you’ll sample local beer snacks while learning how to read a Japanese menu. 

Pricing for the tour starts at ¥6500. Additional costs for food and drink may be required. The perfect tour for couples or small groups of friends, maxing out at seven guests.

The minimum age in Japan for drinking is 20 years old. Most bars in Osaka do not accept credit cards so it is advised to have enough cash available. 

Book This Namba Food Tour  here . 

For first-time visitors to Osaka learning how and what to order in a Japanese bar is challenging. The Namba bar hopping tour is a great way to get your feet wet on learning the customs associated with drinking in Japan.

With a small group setting, the tour allows for a detailed conversation about the different Japanese alcoholic drinks, bar snacks, and etiquette.  

Check Rates For This Namba Food And Bar Tour 

Making Takoyaki in an Osaka Cooking Class

Osaka Cooking Class 

Cooking is at the heart of Japan, especially in Osaka. In this traditional Japanese cooking class learn the secrets and techniques to prepare some of Japan’s most iconic dishes. With only eight participants in each class, you’ll receive personal hands-on attention. 

Learn to prepare traditional Japanese green tea, takoyaki (fried octopus balls), miso soup, and okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake). They also arrange for an optional sake or beer tasting. 

This three-hour class is highly recommended for travelers who love to cook. Set in a traditional Japanese house, it’s a fun, hands-on experience that introduces the art of cooking in Japan. 

Prices for the cooking class start from ¥9000. Vegetarian options are available but all dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking.

Book this Osaka cooking class  here .

Why we like this cooking class:

We took this cooking class during an earlier visit to Osaka. It’s hosted by two sisters who not only love to cook but share the recipes that were handed down to them by their mother and grandmother. It’s also a great opportunity to go into someone’s home and see what it’s like to live in Japan.

The tour is a little outside of the city center of Osaka, but they provide directions by train and will meet you at the station. 

Check Rates For This Osaka Cooking Class 

Osaka Sushi Cooking Class

Fewer things are more Japanese than sushi. In this Osaka sushi cooking class, you will learn from a professional sushi instructor what it takes to prepare the most iconic Japanese dish.

In addition to sampling, your own hand-rolled sushi, enjoy traditional miso soup and Japanese omelet. Guests can enjoy their meal with an optional Japanese sake or beer tasting, for an additional fee. Limited to eight guests, pricing for the class starts at ¥11000. 

Set in a traditional Japanese home, the class begins with your instructor demonstrating how to make the all-important  sushi rice .

Rice rolling techniques for sashimi sushi are explained then it’s your turn to get rolling. Preparing side by side with the chef, guests will also learn how to create sushi rolls using  inari  (tofu skin). 

Book this Sushi Cooking Class  here .

Why we like this cooking class:  

It takes years to master the art of preparing sushi. For any traveler who’s been curious about how sushi is made, this is a perfect class.

Lasting just over two and a half hours, participants will learn the basics of sushi making while having the opportunity to experience the process firsthand. Best of all, travelers can enjoy the sushi they made. 

This Osaka cooking class is hosted by the same sisters who taught our cooking class in Osaka. We just love them and can’t recommend them enough! It’s also taught at their home. 

Check Rates For This Sushi Cooking Class 

FAQs – HOW TO BOOK A FOOD TOUR IN OSAKA

The Asahi brewery outside of Osaka does offer free tours. It is highly recommended to make a booking in advance. Visitors who arrive at the brewery without an appointment must wait, upwards of two and a half hours, for the next available tour. Appointments can be made by calling the brewery. English-speaking representatives are available when calling. Tours are given in both Japanese and English. The tours last approximately 30 minutes and include a tasting of three beers. Learn more here .

Comfortable shoes! Most food tours involve a lot of walking and standing. Also, wear comfortable clothing with layers, which means a rain jacket or umbrella during bad weather.

No, if you follow our Osaka Food Guide and our Dotonbori Food Guide you can eat well. But, you will be missing out on a lot of the history and culture of this food-centric city. Spending even two or three hours on a food tour is such a great way to learn more about a city and its culture – all while eating and drinking!

Osaka is an incredible food city and is known for many dishes. During an Osaka food tour, you can expect to sample okonomiyaki, sushi, takoyaki, and ramen. All of these are classic Japanese dishes.

Eric Hoffman

Eric Hoffman is the co-founder of Food And Drink Destinations. Eric is a lifelong traveler who is passionate about helping people learn how to travel for food. He lives with his wife, Amber, in Limerick, Ireland, after spending 3 years living in Spain. Over the last 20 years, they've traveled to over 70 countries together, always in search of great food travel experiences. Eric also loves cooking at home, always looking to perfect his Italian recipes.

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Osaka For Foodies: 10 ‘Must Eat’ Osaka Dishes to Try on Your Trip

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Osaka is a city so famous for food it’s called Japan’s Kitchen. There are giant food motifs everywhere and food stalls, bars, and restaurants on (almost) every corner. So, how do you decide exactly what to eat in Osaka? Well, you could start these with ten ‘must-eat’ Osaka dishes.’

Quick Summary

The ten ‘must eat’ foods in Osaka are takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyak i (a pancake), kushi katsu (fried food on sticks), kasa udon (udon with intestines), huromon (grilled offal), conveyer belt sushi , omurice , a special type of pressed sushi called oshizushi and kitsune udon which uses tofu. I’m also adding the viral crab ice cream you can buy in Osaka, as I know some of you will be looking for it!

There’s something for everyone on the list! Read on to find out why Osaka is known for these dishes, the best places to try them, and a few etiquette points you need to know when eating them.

Article by Helen Foster. Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. See our Affiliate Disclosure.

Why Are There So Many Famous Foods in Osaka?

1. okonomiyaki, 2. takoyaki, 3. kushikatsu, 4. kasu udon, 6. kaiten sushi, 8. oshizushi, 9. kitsune udon, 10. crab ice cream.

Because Osaka prides itself on giving you so many choices of things and places to eat, it’s possible to eat till you burst (the word kuidaore in Japanese).

They even have a mascot for it. You’ll spot a bespectacled guy in a stripy clown suit in a few places around Osaka. This is Kuidaore Taro – also known as ‘eat yourself broke Jack.’

He was once the symbol of a famous Osaka restaurant called Cui-Daore, but, now stands for the food culture of the city (you’ll find all sorts of souvenirs with his face on).

While Kyoto is where you go for refined food, Osaka is where you come for something totally different.

Many of Osaka’s most famous dishes fall into a category known as B-Class Gourmet. That might sound a bit derogatory, but it means popular food using inexpensive local ingredients. It’s cheap, quick, easy to make, and hits the spot. Think of it as Japanese comfort food.

Every part of Japan has its own version of this, but Osaka’s has achieved an international reputation. For this reason, many of the famous Osaka foods below won’t break the bank to try them.

You can easily try everything here in Osaka for less than 1,000 yen a dish (except for number 7, which is a bit more spendy).

This is top of almost everyone’s list of things to eat in Osaka – and it is super yummy (and very filling).

Okonomiyaki is a Japanese pancake, although you’ll sometimes see it referred to as Japanese pizza. It’s made of flour, filled with meat, seafood, and/or cabbage, and topped with sauce, and, in some restaurants, it’s cooked on a hot plate in the middle of your table.

Most Okonomiyaki places are pretty casual and it’s generally an inexpensive dish to try. You’ll often also find Okonomyaki places selling other hotplate-style dishes like yaki soba, so feel free to order one to share and a couple of other dishes if you think it might be a bit heavy to eat one alone.

While the traditional okonomiyaki is quite thick, there is a thinner version called Negi-yaki. A good place to try this is a restaurant called Fukutaro near Namba station.

Ikayaki is another pancake-style dish you might find. It looks more like the pancakes we’re used to and is filled with squid.

If you go to Hiroshima on a day trip from Osaka, you’ll find they add noodles to their okonomiyaki.

Where to Try Okonomiyaki in Osaka

Some of the most recommended places to try Okonomiyaki in Osaka include Mizuno (it doesn’t have an English sign, but look for a restaurant with a grey front and swirly red symbol on the sign, and a blue one on the curtain that hangs over the door – and a queue – there’s a picture of it on their website ).

You might also want to try Okaru (marked as Pancake One on Google Maps) near Dotonbori or the chain Chibo.

The huge pancake in the picture above was from a place I stumbled across on my last trip. It’s called Naniwa no Yume and it’s just North of Dotonbori by the Aiau Bridge. Check out the chef giving it a final toasty finish.

I was going here before a night of singing karaoke at my favorite Osaka karaoke bar Kama Sutra – and it definitely set me up for a night of many throat-soothing Asahi’s!

Why Not Try an Osaka Food Tour

Okonomiyaki is one of the dishes on the Magical Trip Osaka food tour – and if you want to try a few Osaka must-eat foods in one night, I’d suggest taking a food tour.

I’ve taken a few Magical Trip tours, always had a good time, and learned a lot so I definitely recommend them.

Have a look at the times and availability here.

Another famous food in Osaka is Takayoki. These are balls of fluffy batter, each containing a piece or two of octopus.

If you’re eating them on the street, you normally have about 6 in a serving served in a small tray. Sauce and sometimes bonito flakes are added to the top, and you eat them with a toothpick.

They are very moreish.

Where to Try Takoyoki in Osaka

You’ll find Takoyaki stalls all over Osaka, and they’re often identified by octopus signs, octopus-shaped lights, and fluffy or blow-up octopus hanging from the stalls.

However, the place that is said to have introduced takoyaki to Osaka is a restaurant called Aizuya. They launched in 1933 and started selling the little batter balls full of meat and a root vegetable called konyaku, but then, after a comment from a customer in 1945, their founder decided to try adding some other fillings – including octopus and the rest is history.

They are also unusual in that they serve their takoyaki without sauce. The balls are smaller than you might find elsewhere in Osaka, but they explain this on their website with the most brilliant quote. ‘We are still stubbornly adhering to the original style of holding beer in one hand.’ I’m guessing their idea is you hold a smaller dish of takoyaki in the other!

There are a few branches around town, all clearly marked on Google Maps, including two branches in Namba and one over by the waterfront. You’ll also find a list here.

Another good place to try Takoyaki is the chain Takoyaki Wanaka.

You’ll find them in Kuramon market at the north end, on the left. They also have several other stores around Osaka, all marked on Google Maps.

Another highly recommended place is Kogaryu Takoyaki in the Triangle Park area of Amerikamura.

If you’re already a Takoyaki lover, you might want to visit Creo-Ru on your Osaka trip. They also offer twists on this comfort food classic, including changing up the fillings and the sauces. There are a few branches, and you’ll find them listed here .

The queue in the picture above is for the takoyaki from the Takoyaki Museum in Dotonbori.

Another must-eat dish in Osaka is known as Kushikatsu – this is basically fried meat and/or vegetables in breadcrumbs on sticks that you dip into a sauce.

The Kushi Katsu Rule You Have to Know

While so far, the dishes we’ve mentioned have been pretty casual in how you eat them, when it comes to kushi katsu there is one huge rule you have to learn.

NEVER double-dip the skewer into the dish.

You see, the dip dishes are refilled between guests, but the old dip is not thrown away so the only time you dip your skewer into the dip must be when you first pick it up..

Once you’ve taken a bite, that’s it; dipping again is the height of rudeness.

The problem here is that the sauce is a bit addictive, so you’re going to want more. Use the bits of cabbage your dish is served with to scoop the sauce onto your fried goodies once you’ve taken a bite.

Another rule – don’t use the chopsticks to hold your cabbage, as they’ll end up in the sauce too. Hold the cabbage with your fingers and ensure only the leaves go in.

Where to Try Kushikatsu

One of the most popular chains for kushi katsu is Daruma, which you’ll recognize because of the angry-looking chef model outside. He’s there to scare you into only dipping once!

They have served Osaka for over 70 years and have branches in Shinseikai and Dotonbori. They’re a good place for your kushikatsu experience because they have English menus, so you know what is inside each deep-fried goodie.

If you’re a bit nervous about the idea that some places might not have an English menu, then check out our guide to how to get round Japan if you don’t speak Japanese – you’ll find it reassuring.

Kushikatsu is charged either as a set meal where you know how many skewers you’re getting and what’s in them or, or, you can buy them individually in which case it works rather like a sushi train and your bill is calculated by the number of skewers you have at the end multiplied by the skewer cost.

At Daruma, the prices are clearly marked so you won’t suddenly find you ordered more than you expected or, you can order a set meal.

Kushikatsu is not a leisurely refined meal so don’t expect to linger for a long time here. Maybe grab it as a quick lunch or dinner while doing other things than planning to spend a relaxing evening discussing the day.

This one might be one for the more adventurous. Osaka has a very unique type of udon known as Kasu Udon. That translates to leftover noodles, but the leftovers they use are intestines.

If you’ve never had intestines, they’re a lot better than you might think, meaty and chewy – and, actually pretty good if you can get over the idea of what you’re eating.

I had no idea about this until my friend Kendall translated the sign above for me and said ‘What’s leftover udon’ – cue much googling about Osaka udon!

Where to Try Kasu Udon in Osaka

If you want to try it, look for the Japanese letters かす (which means Kasu) and うどん (which is udon), like this sign below.

The original restaurant that popularized Kasu Udon in Osaka is known as Kasuya and they now have 20 branches you can visit to try this famous dish.

The one near the moss-covered Honzeji shrine comes highly recommended by tourists – it’s called Kasuya Honzeji on Google Maps.

It’s rare to find an English menu in places selling kasu udon as it is a very traditional dish, but, apparently, this branch has one; the udon and other dishes come highly recommended and the chef is super friendly.

The restaurant pictured above is one of the Ryo-nosu chain. They also sell kasu udon, but also grilled meats (called yakiniku) and horumon… which we’re just about to talk about.

Another one for the more adventurous among you. Huromon is another offal-based dish that originated in Osaka.

The story is that Osaka was full of the practical people of Japan, the workers, and the working class, and as such they didn’t like to see things go to waste – and so, they created a whole load of dishes around parts of animals that might have been thrown away in other parts of Japan – and huromon is one of those dishes.

It’s basically grilled, or boiled, intestines – or other offal dishes like kidneys or hearts.

It’s usually cooked at the table on a heating device like the one shown below. This is known as yakiniku and you can use the technique to cook all sorts of meats not just huromon.

Where to Try Huromon in Osaka

Ryo-nosu is a good place to give this a try. The menu is not in English, but it does have pictures.

Find a list of branches here . The one pictured above is their original store at 2-3-32 Shinsaibashisuji,

You’ll also find Huromon yaki udon (fried noodles with offal) in some restaurants around Osaka.

Also known as conveyor belt sushi or sushi trains, you can find these all over the world, but they were invented in Osaka in 1958 – and so, it’s only fitting that you visit one while you are here.

The inventor of the sushi train, Yoshiaki Shiraishi, took his inspiration from a conveyor belt in a beer factory, but the horseshoe shape of the belt came from the way cards are fanned out in a casino.

Yoshiaki san also spent a lot of time creating the perfect speed for his invention, realizing if it went too fast, the quality of the fish would suffer, but if it went too slow, people would get fed up and spend less money.

Where to Try Kaiten Sushi in Osaka

You’ll find sushi trains all over Osaka; the picture above was taken in one near Kuromon market.

However, the original Kaiten sushi restaurant started by Yoshiaki san was called Genroku Sushi. While their founder has passed on, the family firm still has branches in Osaka today, including one in Dotonbori.

If you want to visit, look for the giant hand holding a piece of sushi on Dotonbori.

They also have other branches in the city. If you want to see more details , their website is here . It’s in Japanese, so you may need to use Google Translate.

Dotonbori is one of the top 10 places to visit in Osaka so, chances are you’ll end up here at some point. If you want to see the other must-see spots, check out that link!

Another dish that originated in Osaka was created by a chef who felt sorry for a customer with a weak stomach. The gentleman would order the same thing every day, a plain omelet and rice, so the chef decided to find a way to liven it up a bit.

He created a dish of mixed rice, mushrooms, and onions and topped it with the omelet and ketchup. Omurice was born. It’s not only a very common Japanese comfort food, it’s also one of the foods you can pick from if you don’t like fish (there’s a list of lots more fish-free Japanese foods here)

Where to Find Omurice in Osaka

The restaurant where the dish was created is still standing in Osaka – although it has changed its name from its original incarnation, but to visit the birthplace of Omurice, head to Hokkyokusei . It’s located close to Dotonbori.

The restaurant is very traditional, and you will have to remove your shoes. You can sit at a few tables, but most seats see you sitting on the floor.

Expect to pay about 800 yen for the omurice; they have English descriptions on the menu.

You’ll also probably have to queue to get in. Write your name on the list inside, then join the queue.

Did you know that capsule hotels were also invented in Osaka? If you want to know more about these, head over to our piece on all the different types of hotels you can stay in in Japan.

Conveyer sushi is not the only sushi Osaka is famous for; it also has its own shape for sushi, a square or rectangle.

While most sushi in Japan sees rice being formed by hand, oshizushi is also known as pressed sushi because it’s made in a square box with a weight on the top, forcing the sushi into a square shape. It’s then left to sit for a little while so the flavors of the fish infuse the rice.

For this reason, if you try Oshizushi, you might not find the normal condiments like soy sauce and wasabi on offer. The taste of the dish is supposed to speak for itself.

Originally, the dish was topped with mackerel, a dish known as Battera sushi as it looked kind of like a boat, but nowadays, it can include other toppings.

Where to Find Oshizushi in Osaka

Despite originating here, it can be hard to find oshizushi in Osaka, and as such, it might not be the cheapest sushi lunch you have here.

If you want to try it, have a look at Yoshino Sushi at 3-4-14 Awajimachi. It’s a little bit north of Amerikamura. They are open for lunch and dinner but don’t open at weekends.

If Kasu Udon wasn’t your kind of thing, but you want to try a traditional Osaka udon, Kitsune Udon is what you need to look for.

Kitsune means fox in Japanese, and it’s so named because it’s topped with deep-fried tofu (known as aburaage) – and apparently, foxes are a big fan of this. It’s often left as an offering to the fox guardians you’ll find at many shrines.

The Tofu is marinated in a sweet sauce, giving it a distinct flavor that goes well with the light broth used in kitsune udon.

Where to Try Kitsune Udon in Osaka

You’ll find it in almost every udon shop in Osaka, but the restaurant that launched Kitsune Udon in Osaka is still open. It’s called Usami-Tei Matsubaya .

It’s located in Shinsaibashi at 3 Chome-8-1 Minamisenba. That’s it below.

While the above are all foods Osaka has been known for for a long time, this one is newly viral – and as it might have popped up on one of your social media feeds so, we’re going to tell you where to try it.

You’ll find it at the famous crab restaurant Kani Doraku toward the western end of Dotonbori – it’s the one with the giant waving crab.

The ice cream freezer is to the right of the shop front.

You can’t pretend you are eating strawberry – the flavor is not subtle and it has giant bits of crab in it, but it’s fun!

So, there you have it – the ten dishes we think are Osaka must-eats and where to find them – enjoy!

Who Writes This Blog?

My name is Helen Foster, and I’m a journalist and author. My travel articles have appeared in publications including The Australian, RAC Horizons, Jetstar Magazine, Sainsbury’s Magazine, and more.

I’ve traveled to Japan five times before- solo and with my partner – and I’ve just returned from trip six in June 2023. So, everything here is pretty up to date.

• Travel tips

2024 Osaka Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Osaka, Japan

Besides trying all the traditional Japanese food in Osaka, there are a few must-eat Osaka food that you should not miss. Many of these famous Osaka foods are affordable and can be found in the touristy areas of Dōtonbori, Namba, Umeda, and Shinsekai.

I spent almost a month in Osaka during my last trip and found many good food in the city so that I could compile a list of the best food in Osaka. So if you are planning a trip to Japan soon, follow my Osaka Food Guide and find out where and what to eat in Osaka for your upcoming trip.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

Tips for eating in Osaka, Japan

Before trying some of the best food in Osaka, take a look at my post on  everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included a lot of travel information, including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are a few additional tips for eating in Osaka:

• Be prepared to wait in a queue.  It could be 10 to 30 minutes. The best places to eat in Osaka ALWAYS have a queue.
• Most restaurants accept cash only , especially the small food shops where you must buy a ticket before sitting down.
• Bring your credit card,  as some places accept credit cards.
• Check the hours of operation  when you are eating in Osaka. Some restaurants are open for lunch only. Some are open for both lunch and dinner but breaks in between.
• Download Google Translate , an app that can translate Japanese to English. Some restaurants have Japanese-only menus, but most seem to have English menus. 
• Tipping is not required in Japan .

Best Food in Osaka: Where and What to Eat in Osaka

In this section, I put together a summary of the best food to try in Osaka. This is a quick guide for you when searching for what to eat in Osaka.

And when you scroll down, I include a more extended explanation for each Osaka food and where you can find the local food. I included the hours of operation, and Google Maps links to each Osaka restaurant and food outlet so you can easily find them.

Here is a quick summary of all the food you should try in Osaka:

Osaka Popular Snacks

• Takoyaki – octopus ball-shaped snack 
• Ikayaki – squid pancake 
• Benishouga-no-Tempura – deep-fried pickled red ginger 

Osaka Famous Food

• Okonomiyaki – Japanese savoury pancake 
• Kushikatsu – skewered and deep-fried food
• Kitsune Udon – fried tofu with thick wheat flour noodles
• Hako Zushi – layered sushi pressed into a wooden box
• Kaiten Sushi – conveyor belt sushi

Other must eat food in Osaka

• Butaman – large steamed pork buns
• Gyoza – pan-fried dumplings 
• Onigiri – Japanese rice ball
• Donburi – rice bowl 
• Japanese Curry – thick stew-like curry
• Ramen – Japanese noodle soup
• Akashiyaki – small round egg dumplings with octopus

What and Where to Eat in Osaka, Japan

1. takoyaki.

What is Takoyaki: a savoury ball-shaped snack in Osaka. It is made with flour, eggs, and octopus, then topped with takoyaki sauce and dried bonito flakes. Each takoyaki is made into a perfect sphere with a metal ball-shaped pan.

Best places to eat Takoyaki in Osaka:

• Takoyaki Wanaka (10:30am-9pm) – try the Ooiri 8-piece variety box with 3 flavours or the Takosen, where two octopus balls are sandwiched between Wanaka original rice crackers. There are many locations in Osaka; the Sennichimae location is the original store.
• Takoyaki Tamaya (11am-9pm; closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays) – their batter is made with 20 kinds of ingredients, including lobster dashi broth. Great place to try takoyaki with different toppings.
• Takoyaki Umaiya (11:30am-6:30pm; closed Tuesdays) – a takoyaki place featured on Netflix’s “Street Food”. I can confirm – the takoyaki is as yummy as it looks!
• Takoyaki Kukuru (11am-9pm) – popular takoyaki chain with many locations in Osaka. Their takoyaki has giant pieces of octopus sticking out.
• Takoyaki Market (11am-10pm) – there are 5 takoyaki outlets includes Takoyaki Kukuru.

What is Ikayaki: squid pancake, a regional specialty in Osaka. It is made with a savoury pancake batter and bite-sized pieces of squid. The dough is pressed between two iron plates, and sometimes an egg is added to the folded crepe. The result is a hearty and chewy pancake.

Where to eat Ikayaki in Osaka:

• Hanshin Meibutsu Ikayaki (10am-9pm) – the food outlet inside Snack Park at Hanshin Department Store in Umeda is very popular. There are four items on the menu. Use Google Translate to translate. I had the grilled squid (top left on the menu).

3. Benishouga-no-Tempura

What is Benishouga-no-Tempura : deep-fried Japanese pickled red ginger tempura. Thin slices of fresh ginger are marinated in plum vinegar before they are dipped in a batter and deep-fried. A great snack as-is and excellent when paired with alcohol.

Best places to eat Benishouga-no-Tempura in Osaka :

• Tempura Tarojiro (5pm-12am Monday to Friday; 11:30-12am Saturdays and Sundays) – try fried red ginger from this yummy tempura restaurant.
• Mansai (9:30am-5:30pm) – a shop in Kuromon Ichiba Market that sells all kinds of fried fishcake, including red ginger in fishcake.
• Cooked food section at supermarkets – sometimes you can find fried benishouga at the supermarket.

1. Okonomiyaki

What is Okonomiyaki: Japanese savoury pancake made with noodles, shredded cabbage, flour batter and various toppings, including seafood and meat. Then a copious amount of sauce drizzles directly on the pancake. Some restaurants cook okonomiyaki on a hot plate right before you at your table. So you get to eat a delicious meal and watch a show simultaneously!

Where to eat Okonomiyaki in Osaka:

• Houzenji Sanpei (5-11pm Wednesday to Monday; 11:30am-2:45pm Saturdays & Sundays) – a cozy little restaurant in Houzenji. The scallop, mushroom and cheese okonomiyaki is delish! They have an English menu.
• Okonomiyaki Kiji (11:30am-9:30pm; closed Sundays) – the restaurant was founded in 1954 and serves okonomiyaki and “modern-yaki”. Get a number and queue outside. Everyone is seated at the same time, and all the savoury pancakes are cooked on the main flat grill.
• Okonomiyaki Mizuno (11am-10pm; closed Thursdays) – the line moves fast at this busy okonomiyaki restaurant in Dotonbori.
• Tsuruhashi Fugestsu (11am-11pm) – a restaurant chain with many locations in Osaka. They make okonomiyaki at your table.

2. Kushikatsu

What is Kushikatsu: skewered and deep-fried meat, seafood and vegetables. In some traditional restaurants, the ponzu-type dipping sauce is on the table, and you dip your skewer only once (no double-dipping!). Kushikatsu originated in Shinsekai, but you can find a kushikatsu restaurant anywhere in Osaka.

Best restaurants to eat Kushikatsu in Osaka:

• Kushikatsu Daruma (11am-10:30pm) – this kushikatsu restaurant chain has many locations in Osaka. Choose a combo meal with Doteyaki (beef tendon and konjac side dish) or individual skewers. And they have an English menu.
• Yaekatsu (10:30am-8:30pm; closed Thursdays) – a well-known local kushikatsu restaurant in the retro alley in Shinsekai. Sit around the kitchen as they fry your skewers in front of you.

3. Kitsune Udon

What is Kitsune Udon: a bowl of thick wheat flour noodles with a big piece of seasoned fried tofu in a mild sweet broth. The tofu is called Kitsune, which means “fox.” It is said that Kitsune is a fox’s favourite food. This udon dish originated in Osaka and can be eaten hot or cold.

Where to eat Kitsune Udon or other Udon in Osaka:

• Udondokoro Shigemi (10am-3pm Monday to Friday) – newly added to the Michelin Bib Gourmand list, this udon restaurant serves a delicious beef and seaweed udon. Use google translate to read the menu or order via photos on Google Maps.
• Aozora Blue (11:30am-2:30pm & 5:30-10pm; closed Sundays) – their Michelin stone ground udon noodle is sooo good!
• Udonzin Beat (11:30am-3pm, 1-10:30pm; closed Wednesdays) – they are known for their vegetable udon, but I ordered the Wagyu udon instead. So good!
• Udonbo Osaka (11:30am-2:30pm Wednesdays, Fridays to Sundays; 11:30am-2:30pm & 5:30-8pm Thursdays) – I had the cold tempura udon that comes with fried fish cake and egg. Probably my favourite udon place in Osaka! There’s always a queue but the line moves quickly.
• Kitatake Udon (11am-3pm; closed Mondays) – I tried the cold kitsune and Wagyu beef udon, and it was delish! Go early, as the restaurant closes when the noodles are sold out.

4 & 5. Hako Zushi and Kaiten Sushi

What is Hako Zushi: layered sushi pressed into a wooden box. It starts with vinegared rice, then various ingredients like mackerel, shrimp, conger egg, sea bream, egg and other colourful ingredients are added. It is also known as “oshi-zushi” or “Osaka zushi”.

What is Kaiten Sushi: conveyor belt sushi. Invented in Osaka in 1958, the way sushi is served in Kaiten sushi restaurants was inspired by bottles rotating around a conveyor belt in a beer factory.

Best places to eat Hako Zushi in Osaka:

• Yoshino Sushi (10am-2pm Monday to Friday) – try hako zushi set lunches at the restaurant or buy boxed hako zushi for take away.
• Food level at Takashimaya , Hanshin and Hankyu Department Store (10am-8pm) – find packaged hako zushi and other sushi, sashimi and maki rolls at the B1 level.

Where to eat Kaiten Sushi in Osaka:

• Genrokuzushi (11am-10:30pm) – conveyor belt sushi restaurant chain in Osaka. Many locations across the city.
• Kura Sushi (11-12am Monday to Friday; 10:20-12am Saturdays and Sundays) – conveyor belt sushi restaurant chain with many locations in Osaka and around the world.

Best restaurants to eat sushi in Osaka:

• Kuromon Ichiba Market (various)- a covered shopping street with many vendors sell fresh sushi and sashimi. There are also cooked seafood and other sweet treats. Eat on the spot or take away.
• Osaka Kizu Market (4-11am Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursday to Saturday) – a lesser-known seafood market in Osaka that sells fresh seafood at affordable prices. It is possible to eat there but only on the benches outside the wholesale market.
• Kizu Uoichi (?) – popular sushi restaurant at the perimeter of Osaka Kizu Market. Go early (like 7am) and queue up for their overflowing tuna rice bowl.
• Maruyoshi Sushi (5am-1pm Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays; 8am-1pm Wednesdays) – its next to Kizu Uoichi. They also serve fresh sushi.
• Izakaya Toyo (1-5pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays; 12-5pm Saturdays) – Osaka’s famous flamethrower chef was featured on Netflix Street Food Asia. Chef Toyoji Chikumoto is as animated and charming in real life as he was on the show.

Besides all the unique food Osaka is known for, there are other Japanese food in Osaka that you should check out.

1 & 2. Butaman & Gyoza

• 555 Horai (10am-9:30pm; closed Tuesdays) – known for its butaman (large Chinese steamed buns stuffed with pork). Can also be found on the food level of department stores and train stations.
• Osaka Ohsho (11am-10:30pm) – a large restaurant chain in Japan famous for its gyoza (pan-fried dumplings). There are many outlets in Osaka but go to the main store in Dotonbori – there is a giant gyoza above the restaurant.

• Onigiri Gorichan (11am-8pm) – try a customizable giant Japanese rice ball. Save about a third and add dashi broth to make a chazuke (broth with rice). They also have another location in Nakazaki .

• Katsudon Chiyomatsu (11am-9:30pm) – the 5cm pork cutlet katsudon is quite impressive. I only got the 2.5cm katsudon and it was really filling.
• Yakiniku Kitan (11am-3pm & 5-11pm) – they offer three beef donburi (rice bowl) for lunch. The seared steak is delicious and also very affordable. They have another location if the Dotonburi one is too busy.

5. Japanese Curry

• Hakugintei (11:45am-3pm Monday to Friday; 11:45am-2pm Saturdays) – I had a curry with tonkatsu, cheese and spinach. It has a bit of heat and oh so delicious!
• Watanabe Curry (11:30am-2:30pm & 6-9pm; closed Saturdays) – if you love curry and meat, this is the place. I tried the pork cutlet curry and it was so good!

• Torisoba Zagin Niboshi (10:30am-9pm) – foodies love the ramen with creamy chicken broth, sous vide chicken and pork and its signature fried burdock root. It also comes with two pieces of beef sushi. There are two shops in Osaka. The other shop is the main shop and is close to Higobashi Station.

7. Akashiyaki

• Akashiyaki & Okonomiyaki Takohachi (11:30am-3pm & 5:30-10pm Monday to Friday; 11:30am-10pm Saturdays & Sundays) – I found akashiyaki , a Kobe food specialty , in Osaka. It is similar to takoyaki, except it is eggier. Instead of drizzling it with sauce, dip it in a clear dashi broth. This is a popular dish from Akashi in Hyogo Prefecture.
• Takoyaki Kukuru (11am-9pm) – the popular takoyaki chain also serves akashiyaki.

Desserts in Osaka

Can’t forget about the sweet tooth. Good thing Osaka has many dessert places. Actually, there are too many to name but here are my top three favourite sweet treats.

Best dessert places in Osaka:

• Rikuro’s Cheesecake (9am-8pm) – famous for its fluffy and jiggly cheesecake. Buy one at the store to bring back to your hotel, or try it at the cafe upstairs. Rikuro also sells cake at Daimaru in Shinsaibashi and Umeda.
• Pablo Cheese Tart (11am-9m Monday to Friday; 10am-9pm Saturdays & Sundays) – Pablo sells basque cheesecakes, souffle cheesecakes, melty cheese tarts, mini cheese tarts in various flavours, and my favourite, cheese soft serve ice cream.
• Coconchi Osaka Shinsekai (10am-9pm Monday to Friday; 9am-10pm Saturdays & Sundays) – many stores sell castella cakes (Japanese sponge cakes) in Osaka. I found the cutest mini castella cakes in the shape of Billiken, the mascot of Shinsekai, in a souvenir shop in Shinseikai.
• Strawberry Mania (11am-9pm) – an excellent selection of strawberry desserts. My go-to is always soft serve ice cream and it didn’t disappoint.

Which must-eat food in Osaka are you most excited to try?

I hope you will try all the famous Osaka food when you are in the city. They are affordable and easily accessible. Even if you are only spending a few days in the city, there are many opportunities to find good food in Osaka.

And if you find other great places to eat in Osaka not mentioned in the post already, let me know in the comments below.

Thank you for reading my Osaka Food Guide

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kansai region

• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Kyoto: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kyoto Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• Kurama to Kibune hiking itinerary
• Uji day trip from Kyoto
• Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
• Nara famous food: Where and What to Eat
• Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Where to stay in Osaka for first time traveller
• Minoh Waterfalls Trail: easy day hike from Osaka
• Osaka to Kobe day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Best food in Kobe: Where and What to Eat
• Arima Onsen day trip itinerary
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

Food around the world

• What to eat in Sofia Bulgaria: 21 must-try food
• Vienna food guide: 23 must-try food
• Budapest food guide: 26 Best Budapest Food
• 25 Bucharest Food: What to eat in Bucharest
• Porto food guide: 17 Best Porto Food
• 21 must-eat food in Singapore
• Where to eat Michelin star street food in Singapore
• 15 traditional Hong Kong food
• 22 must-eat food in Taiwan
• Taiwan 7-11 food: 10 must-eat
• 15 Ximending food for foodies travelling to Taipei
• Hualien Food Guide: What and Where to eat in Hualien, Taiwan
• Yilan Food Guide: Where and What to eat in Yilan County

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Kyushu Itinerary: 10 days Exploring Kyushu Island on a Budget

How to Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture: Day trip from Nara or Kyoto

Kagoshima Travel Guide: 12 Top Things to Do in Kagoshima Japan

hi! great food blog! question – my husband and i like to eat healthy, and we’ve tried a lot of the japanese food you’ve listed, but we’re interested in eating lots of fish dishes. did you eat any fish at all or know of great places for them? thanx!

Hi Gina, There are lots of sushi restaurants in Osaka. I really like restaurants at perimeter of Osaka Kizu Market (they only open in the mornings). And even inside the market has fresh fish. Izakaya restaurants serve sushi and grilled fish too. There are several places I pinned on my map but didn’t get to try. They are called Isaribi and Robatayaki Tsumago. They serve grilled seafood and it looks quite good. Hope this helps!

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Shirakawa-go Solo Guide: How to Get there & Day Trip Itinerary

Where to stay in osaka for first time traveller: best areas and hotel reviews, ms travel solo.

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I Had Some of the Best Meals of My Life in Osaka — Here’s Where to Eat and Drink in Japan’s Most Exciting Food City

Tokyo and Kyoto might get all the buzz, but Osaka's food scene is top notch.

Andrea Fazzari

Through an unblinking black eyeball, a 20-foot-high scarlet octopus ogles my lunch.

She lords over the second floor of a restaurant in Osaka’s Shinsekai quarter, a pastiche of Paris and Coney Island erected in the early 1900s, neglected by the midcentury, and respected today for its retro-futurist architecture and first-class fast food. Ursula-san already clutches takoyaki (octopus fritters) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in her white-suckered tentacles but, unsurprisingly for a native Osakan, she’s still hungry.

Between us is a checkerboard lane and a monsoon. Seated by a rain-lashed window, my guide, Noriyuki Ikegami, and I are safe inside Tsuruhashi Fugetsu, a chain specializing in another Osakan treasure, okonomiyaki. With the muscle memory and blasé demeanor of someone who has done this ten thousand times, our server dumps a bowl of shaved cabbage and batter onto the hot, hissing grill built into our table. Over the next 20 minutes, she periodically reappears to add shrimp, steak, and pork; flip the pancake and paint it with mayo and a sweet, tangy brown sauce; fry up a sunny-side egg to slide on top; and finally bury it all in dancing bonito flakes. Okonomiyaki is a delicious mess. As is Osaka.

You can’t just call Japan’s third-largest city a food town. Two syllables cannot encompass the diversity and quality of the cooking, from hot and saucy takoyaki on the street to tradition-steeped kaiseki at the Michelin-starred Nishitenma Nakamura, where chef-owner Akemi Nakamura tenderizes squid sashimi with knife strokes as delicate as calligraphy. Osakans dine with athletic fervor and passion, and everyone I meet wants to know — demands to know, really — the same thing: “What have you eaten?” I tell them:

—The Netflix-famous Izakaya Toyo’s blowtorched tuna cheeks, which make for good TV but butane-flavored tuna; my meal is saved by chain-smoking chef-owner Toyoji Chikumoto’s zany showmanship and his chutoro maki rolled up as casually as a yoga mat with gutsy tears of shiso .

—Raspberry cake cloaked in seed-speckled glaze, a plush fig muffin, several single-origin chocolate bars, and an Ethiopian pour-over at Yard, a sleek café and cocoa lab on the edge of peaceful Tennoji Park.

—Steamed monkfish liver, craggy fried chicken, and wasabi-pickled mountain yam at Sumiyaki Shoten yo Ohatsutenjin, a rambunctious izakaya down a nocturnal alley near Umeda Station, washed down with passion-fruit-sake spritzes.

Add too much okonomiyaki to the list. Ikegami eyes the second helping on my plate and gently reminds me, “We have a lot more to eat.”

Osakans dine with athletic fervor and passion, and everyone I meet wants to know — demands to know, really — the same thing: ‘What have you eaten?’

Here’s what you’ve probably heard about Osaka — if you’ve heard anything at all, given Tokyo’s and Kyoto’s decades of tourism dominance. It’s chaotic. It’s gritty. It’s not very pretty. None of that is untrue, particularly in and around Shinsekai. The name means New World, an optimistic prophecy for a Western-inspired future epitomized by Tsutenkaku Tower, which at 210 feet was the tallest building in Asia when it was constructed in 1912. But a fire destroyed it during World War II, and the new world began a slow slide into an underworld. Today, Shinsekai is rough around the edges but perfectly safe, though it does help to have a guide like Ikegami, who leads culinary tours of the area for Arigato Travel. 

Shaking our umbrellas, we push into Yamatoya, a hideout populated by pachinko pit bosses and ladies with soft packs of cigarettes clutched in sharp sets of nails. Yamatoya specializes in pressed and square-cut box sushi, traditionally made with thrifty cuts that could be cooked, preserved, or treated to last in the lunch pails of the laborers who flocked to Shinsekai in 1956 to reconstruct Tsutenkaku.

Ikegami orders the mackerel, and within minutes, chef Doi-san passes the sushi across the counter. It looks like a mosaic of iridescent tiles and hits with comic-book ZAPS! and POWS! of vinegar and brine — flavors insistent enough to, however briefly, rouse those workers from an endless grind of hard days. Once the “new” tower was complete and employment in Shinsekai evaporated, many of the construction workers became homeless. The acclaimed photographer Daido Moriyama grew up in Osaka around that time; so iconic was the rebuilt Tsutenkaku, he would later put it on the cover of his 2016 book, Osaka, a blinding white rocket against a nighttime sky.

I find that book in the library of the Flag, a boutique hotel in Shinsaibashi. “I hated the smell of the town, the way people talked,” Moriyama wrote in “Dark Picture,” a 1996 essay republished in Osaka. “Typically, I was enamored of Tokyo, interested only in its illusory smartness depicted in songs and books and movies, and the gap between that and the image of the Osaka I was actually in touch with was so extreme that Osaka seemed disagreeable.”

“Dark Picture” brightens into a love letter to a complicated muse, a city that luxuriates in, and then subverts, its own stereotypes: here a sketchy alley, there a Louis Vuitton. This entertaining split personality shines when seen on foot, and with the Kita (north) and Minami (south) areas of the central tourist corridor mostly following a grid, Osaka is extremely easy to navigate. When I’m not hungry, I walk. And walk and walk and walk, until I’m hungry again.

Related: The Best, Worst, and Cheapest Times to Visit Japan

That’s my post-Shinsekai dinner plan. The Flag is around the corner from the humming Shinsaibashi shotengai (shopping street) that funnels a river of pedestrians onto Osaka’s most famous photo op, the Ebisubashi bridge, and onward to Dotonburi, or, as I like to call it, the San Antonio River Walk on cocaine. Sightseeing riverboats glide beneath the bridge, their passengers gawking at the neon canyon above. The electric billboards stare back, reflecting on the water in shimmering distortions of ice blue, hot pink, ultraviolet. Ramps and stairs stitch the bridge and upper streets of Dotonburi to the crowded cafés and convenience stores along the canal. People everywhere. Lights everywhere. Food. Everywhere. Tonkotsu ramen, takoyaki, bubble waffles, matcha crêpes, Kobe steaks — I want nothing, but I want it all. The feeling encapsulates the Osakan expression kuidaore, which means “to eat oneself to ruin.”

Tomofumi Fujimaru waits at the Andō train station. Skinny jeans. Ivory turtleneck. Black Range Rover.

It takes 30 minutes to get from Osaka to the wellspring of its new-wave wine scene. The train trundles out of downtown and backward in time, piercing skyscrapers shrinking to concrete apartment blocks to single homes with vegetable gardens and bedsheets on clotheslines. “Eighty years ago, Osaka was the number one grape producer in Japan,” Fujimaru says as we zip through Kashiwara, where the hills outside of town once housed 119 wineries. Very few remain.

The 46-year-old Fujimaru is considered the consigliere of natural wine in Japan, a country in thrall to the category, if not to its own wine-making abilities. “A lot of people say foreign wine is superior and that Osakan wine is tasteless or really sweet,” he says. “I wanted to make wine for a meal, dry and fully matured.”

Related: 25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan

Fujimaru parks on the side of a switchback, gets out of the car, hops the metal barricade, and gestures for me to follow him into the forest. A short walk brings us to a clearing, where a fairy-tale tunnel disappears into a jumble of bamboo. On the other side, we emerge onto a path that long ago crumbled into a ravine. A narrow metal plank forms a makeshift bridge across the 10-foot gap. Fujimaru trots across, landing in one of nine vineyards that provide grapes for the 15,000 bottles he produces annually of his cult label, Cuvée Papilles.

Each meal in Osaka seems to be better than the last. Nothing will top that pasta, I think as I walk to Yohaku, a new bakery-by-day, restaurant-by-night I found on Instagram.

What this formerly abandoned vineyard lacks in access, it makes up with sunny southwestern exposure, cool nights, vine-friendly sand-and-clay soil, and a magnificent view of a miniature village in the distance framed by an amphitheater of unruly evergreens. The field slopes down gently, giving the sense that if you cleared the wild growth and tucked yourself into a burlap sack, you could glide all the way down to the Yamato River, as if you were on an amusement park super-slide.

Fujimaru touches the trellised vines. “Before, this was all Delaware,” he says, referring to the American variety that makes up 70 percent of the grapes grown in Osaka Prefecture. “But this place is good for Merlot.” We’re between harvest and first frost, so while the Merlot clusters have since journeyed down the mountain and toward the city, their papery leaves remain, all chartreuse and amber, curling in on themselves like old sticky notes.

We follow the fruit’s reverse commute to Shimanouchi Fujimaru, the first urban winery in Japan. Fujimaru’s second in command, Atsushi Tanaka, shows me around the first floor of this nondescript building, where first-of-their-kind experiments include Delaware grapes macerating in rotund earthenware vessels. Then we head upstairs to the cozy restaurant for house-made fettuccine with sweet potatoes and allspice-laced braised beef. A strange and pleasant grittiness runs through the pasta. “The pomace from the wine making,” Tanaka says, explaining that the grape seeds and skins are dried, ground, and folded into the dough like coarsely cracked peppercorns. This vineyard spice brings nuttiness and tannins and connects the life cycle of the wine in a closed loop.

Tanaka pours a cascade of Cuvée Papilles Osaka Red. Composed primarily of Fujimaru’s Merlot gamble, the blend is a vivacious geyser of blackberry and plum. Some wine pairings lean in to their food. This one is all contrasts, with the wine’s wild-yeast edge, energetic juiciness, and savage acidity countering the sonorous richness of the pasta like a DJ mashing up Cardi B and Luther Vandross.

Each meal in Osaka seems to be better than the last. Nothing will top that pasta, I think as I walk to Yohaku, a new bakery-by-day, restaurant-by-night I found on Instagram. Just inside the shoji doors, bronzed canelés, boxy banana gâteaux, and white-chocolate-and-yuzu sablés shine under glass. On the floor, three empty wine bottles communicate Yohaku’s liquid affinities. The room is dark, but I can make out the exuberant cerise and viridian watercolors on the Osaka Red label. Much as I’d happily crush another bottle, I try a musky orange Alsatian Gewürztraminer and settle in at 33-year-old Yoji Arakawa’s 10-seat counter.

Osaka’s personality is chill by Japan standards, but its artisans share the countrywide attention to craft and detail, whether making soba, throwing pottery, or brewing matcha

Arakawa is among the young chefs who’ve cooked in Tokyo and abroad but decided to do their own thing in Osaka, which is the hometown of his wife and business partner, Tomoko Arakawa, a Paris-trained pâtissier. “In Osaka you can eat the same level of food at about sixty percent of the prices in Tokyo and Kyoto, and customers are strict about quality and price,” Arakawa tells me. “Shops that are low quality or not worth the cost do not last long, so in Osaka you can be satisfied no matter where you eat.”

That tracks. Yohaku, however, inhabits another plane. Creative joie de vivre, can-do scrap, and yes-chef precision underpin Arakawa’s menu, which expresses Japanese ingredients through French technique and fermentation. He cooks every single dish himself, in a workspace smaller than a New York studio kitchenette. “Until now I have worked in large restaurants with more than 15 chefs. I want to make a simpler store,” he says. “Since I’m working alone, I’m limited in what I can do, but I cherish the ideas that are born only when there are restrictions and rules.”

Man, those ideas. My stool is inches from their execution, close enough to feel the heat when Arakawa brûlées reef squid to stack with fresh pear and foie gras confit on an altar of sous-vide leeks, close enough to hear a half-dozen vacuum-sealed bags exhale when he slits them open to furnish an epic pickle plate. With all of Arakawa’s equipment and mise en place within reach, it seems like only his upper body moves, like a car-dealership inflatable dressed in an indigo tunic. He fits a wedge of sudachi on the rim of a bowl bearing tagliolini, matsutakes, conger eel, and pink shiso blossoms and slides it across the counter, gesturing for me to squirt the citrus over the pasta. The simultaneously fatty and luminous result presents an alternate history in which Japanese chefs invented beurre blanc.

Simple pleasures (house-baked rye, a Hokkaido cheese plate with fermented pineapple) complement the big swings. Sprightly yuzu-pineapple kombucha and silky lattes complement the wine service, and dessert sees fat amethyst figs sunk into vanilla-bean rice pudding, crowned with the palest jade egg of wasabi ice cream and cilantro flowers. The canelés follow me back to the hotel.

Nothing will top this, I think. Of course, I’m wrong.

Sukuna Ueda beats the matcha with his bamboo whisk, peers deep into the frothy liquid like it’s going to tell his future, and shakes his blue-beanie-capped head. “I’m sorry,” he sighs. “I’m going to do it over.”

Osaka’s personality is chill by Japan standards, but its artisans share the countrywide attention to craft and detail, whether making soba, throwing pottery, or brewing matcha at Wad, a stylishly austere café in the west end of Minamisenba. Ueda is the ochaban, head of tea service. After studying jazz in San Francisco, he returned to his native Osaka with the desire to “delve more into Japanese culture.” Tea became his medium.

When you order matcha at Wad, Ueda invites you to pick your bowl; the selection rotates based on which artists have just shown in the upstairs gallery. My vessel has a sapphire lip and air bubbles suspended in its curves and looks like it belongs on a coral reef. “Good choice,” Ueda says, then gets to work preparing my matcha, twice.

Related: Why I Spend My Summers Biking Around Osaka

I lift my bowl with both hands, inhale, and sip the grassy, ethereal tea. The experience is borderline eucharistic, and I give the matcha its due reverence before jumping into another kind of tea ceremony. Wad makes its own uji syrup ( uji is a type of matcha) for a can’t-miss dessert. The kakigori, an emerald mountain of shaved ice, arrives looking like a scale model of St. Lucia’s Gros Piton. The fine fluffy crystals drenched in sweet (but not too sweet) syrup are incredible. Could it be the best thing I’ve eaten in Osaka?

I consider that question at my second hotel, Japan’s first W, a mirrored onyx Tadao Ando tower on Midosuji, Osaka’s Fifth Avenue. From my 27th-floor suite, I study the silent silver stitches of southbound traffic migrating through the skyscrapers before bed, where instead of counting sheep I count snacks: perfect latte from standing-room-only indie roaster Mel; magenta mochi with a juicy raspberry center at Mochisho Shizuku, where the traditional wagashi confectioneries resemble precious stones; a supple vanilla Swiss roll in the company of a hundred houseplants at Pyroc Coffee & Bar. 

All these delicacies live in Shinmachi, the W’s backyard and “the very best area of Osaka,” according to Masuhiro “Julian” Yokota, whom I find behind the counter at the micro-bakery Yotsubashi Pain. Shinmachi has always been a place to buy and sell. From the early 1600s through World War II, when it was Osaka’s red-light district, the commodity was sex. Then came women’s wear, real estate, plastics, and more when corporations moved in and erected mid-rise office buildings. And today there are eccentric rubber stamps, vintage Starter jackets, and Yokota’s furutsu sando, the specialty at Yotsubashi Pain.

Like most Japanese kids, Yokota grew up with this trinity of fruit, cream, and white bread, and wanted to make a “more delicious and lovely” version for his nostalgic fellow millennials. Each weekend, he lines the case with vibrant glow-ups: grapes and coconut-milk cream; pomegranate-beaded chocolate cream on cocoa bread; and mango, passion-fruit jam, and whipped yogurt cream cheese. Late afternoon, I snag the last sandwich, Earl Grey cream inlaid with half-moons of glistening tangerine. The sweet acid of the citrus cushioned in the airy dairy gives big Creamiscle energy, with a grown-up whisper of fragrant bitterness. The house-baked white bread is so soft I leave fingerprints in it, then devour the evidence. I think this could be the best thing I’ve eaten in Osaka. 

In the end, it’s Yokota who sabotages his own victory. He is the one who recommends Noodle Fishtons, less a hole than a crack in the wall. A hulking vending machine takes my order and spits out a ticket, which I pass to a cook, who directs me to a stool at the end of the counter, by the bathroom, to marinate in the white noise of the lunch rush: eager slurping, the hollow tink of plastic spoons on ceramic bowls, and the microwave’s intermittent beep. “If you would like to reheat, please feel free to ask the staff,” says one of many notecards laminated and posted around the ramen-ya . Requests another, “Please refrain from eating while looking at your mobile phone.” I feel attacked.

Fishtons’s thing is tsukemen, or dipping ramen — noodles that are eaten after being submerged in a separate bowl of broth. They do about half a dozen styles, including the version I order, flavored with barrel-aged soy and aimori (red vinegar). It comes on a tray in a constellation of bowls. The largest contains marbled pink slices of roasted pork folded over two types of noodles: thin, soft yellow ones made from Japanese white flour, and thicker, darker ones made from nutty Kyoto wheat. The next-largest bowl holds the dipping sauce, a profound brown elixir of pork and fish stocks, strips of braised pork belly, scallion, and powerful soy sauce aged the old way, in timber casks. Condiments fill the other saucers: briny kombu tea, fresh sudachi , spicy miso, Okinawan sea salt, wasabi, and fruity-sharp aimori . You mix and match to create different sensations and flavors. I collect some noodles and pork, splash them in the vinegar, plunge them into the broth, then my mouth, and depart from my body.

Have you ever eaten something that wholly possesses you? I mean muscles-spasming, speaking-in-tongues, call-the-exorcist possession. In that moment, in that restaurant, I don’t know the words I’m forming to describe the tsukemen — the springiness of its dueling noodles, the luscious fat rippling through the pork, the broth’s audacious acidity and umami, as inescapable as a riptide. I do know that whatever small coil of my brain remains autonomous has made its final commendation: the aimori tsukemen at Noodle Fishtons is the best thing I’ve eaten in Osaka.

My ecstatic babble draws an interruption from a cook, who seems both irritated and alarmed. “Excuse me,” he hiss-whispers. “Can you please be quiet?”

About the food in Osaka? Not a chance.

Where to Stay

Hotel The Flag

Stylish minimalism in the shopping haven of Shinsaibashi.

The slick brand’s first hotel in Japan. Generously sized suites have incredible views and Nintendo-wallpapered closets.

Where to Eat

Izakaya Toyo: A ton of waiting and a ton of fun, with great food (except for the torched tuna cheeks made famous by Netflix).

Mel Coffee Roasters : Perfect coffee drinks on a busy Shinmachi corner.

Mochisho Shizuku : Like a modern art gallery for traditional Japanese sweets.

Nishitenma Nakamura: This cerebral, seasonal Michelin-starred kaiseki seats just a handful a night, which means reservations are essential. 81-6-7506-8218

Noodle Fishtons : Grab a seat at the counter for transcendent tsukemen (dipping ramen).

Pyroc Coffee & Bar :   This place doesn’t know if it wants to be a café or a greenhouse, which is not a problem at all.

Shimanouchi Fujimaru : The first urban winery in Japan, with an excellent upstairs restaurant that pours proprietary natural wines.

Sumiyaki Shoten yo Ohatsutenjin : From happy hour to early morning, this place rocks with feisty sake and shochu cocktails.

Tsuruhashi Fugetsu : Hearty okonomiyaki at branches all over Osaka; the Shinsekai outpost looks like a Wendy’s from the 1980s (a compliment!).

Wad : A masterful tea program and towering bowls of kakigori (shaved ice) that will blow up your social media feeds. 

Yamatoya : Colorful Shinsekai characters show up for box sushi and other Osakan favorites.

Yard Coffee & Craft Chocolate : Third-wave coffee and alluring confections (including house-brand chocolate bars) on the edge of Tennoji Park.

Yohaku : Baking by day and cooking by night in a tiny kitchen that radiates creativity and ingenuity.

Yotsubashi Pain : The signature item at this offshoot of famed Osaka pâtisserie Le Sucré-Coeur is the fruit-and-cream sandwich.

How to Book

Arigato Travel:  This company specializes in insightful food-focused and customized tours for small groups and individuals in various Osaka neighborhoods. I took a walking tour with Arigato; the company can also plan multiday itineraries.

A version of this story first appeared in the July 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "The Hunger Games. "

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• Food + Drink

Must eat in Osaka —16+ best food in Osaka & must try food in Osaka

With the title of “national kitchen”, it gives you a feeling like walking in a food court no matter where you are in Osaka. However, to have the convenience and save time for the trip, I recommend checking out the following list of restaurants for each specific kind of food. Under each food is the top 3 best restaurants with location and general reviews as well as price range, which would be helpful and easy for you to make a choice.

• What to eat in Osaka Japan? — 9 food must try in Osaka & must eat food in Osaka
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• Top places to go in Osaka — 20+ top, must-see places & best places to visit in Osaka
• Tokyo street food blog — 17+ best street food in Tokyo & must eat food in Tokyo

So, what to eat in Osaka and where to eat in Osaka? Let’s check out our suggested +16 must eat in Osaka (food must eat in Osaka, must eat food in Osaka), must try food in Osaka (Osaka must try food, food must try in Osaka) including top food in Osaka, best food in Osaka (best food to eat in Osaka, best food to try in Osaka), famous food in Osaka, Osaka local food, Osaka traditional food, traditional food in Osaka and best street food in Osaka as well as best places to find them in Osaka!

Takoyaki (#must try food in osaka)

Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru

Dotonbori has some great takoyaki stalls to choose from and Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru is super popular among street food lovers. The well-baked, golden and crispy octopus balls are the biggest sensation of the eatery.

Location: Minami Price range: Low

Visit Universal Studios Japan and crave takoyaki? Don’t worry about it! There’s a Takoyaki TAKOPA counter, also known as Takoyaki Park (改称), right in the Universal City Walk. There are five counters here, and you certainly don’t have to wait long.

Location: Takoyaki Park, Osaka Bay Price range: Low

To learn about common takoyaki, go to Takohachi in Tennoji and have some akashiyaki instead. It’s similar to takoyaki, but dipped in light, delicious dashi broth. Indeed, it’s great for people who want to try a more novel style of this snack.

Location: Tennoji Price range: Low

Okonomiyaki (#must eat in osaka)

If you only have time for one okonomiyaki restaurant in the city, choose the popular Michelin-rated Kiji Bib Gourmand in Umeda. The long queue of guests in front of the restaurant is a testament to its excellent cuisine.

Location: Kita Price range: Low

For brilliant and creative okonomiyaki as well as some other dishes cooked on a teppan (iron grill), try this great restaurant. This place is just a short walk southwest of Honmachi Station. The name is written in English on the eaves, so finding it is not a problem.

Location: Central Osaka Price range: Average

Kyochabana Shin-Osaka Eki (#famous food in osaka)

Are you looking for a delicious yet healthy dinner option at Shin-Osaka Station? At Kyochabana, you will get affordable, tasty and creative Japanese food.

Location: Shin-Osaka Price range: Low

Kushikatsu (#best food in osaka)

Shichifukujin (#best food in osaka)

Shichifukujin in Tenma is a seat-only kushikatsu restaurant, super popular among locals. Their crispy skewers are awesome, the beer is totally affordable, and they serve oden (Japanese-style fish cake stew) to balance all those fried foods. A great choice if you are in the area!

Location: Kita Price range: Moderately low

Tengu (#osaka must try food)

Can’t get in line at Daruma? Don’t worry, there’s another kushikatsu restaurant in Shinsekai that’s just as good, if not better. Tengu will definitely satisfy all your greasy fry desires.

Location: Tennoji Price range: Moderately low

Karatto is a stylish, quite high-end kushikatsu restaurant located a short walk from Shinsaibashi Station. The food is not only good but also served in large quantities. The place is open until 5:00 am – it’s a great way to end a night of karaoke or party.

Location: Minami Price range: Average

Delicious sushi (#osaka must try food)

Endo Sushi Kyobashi

If you are looking for delicious, affordable sushi, Endo Sushi Kyobashi is the place for you. What a great stop if you travel between Osaka and Kyoto via Kyobashi Station!

Location: Kyobashi Castle Price range: Moderately low

Daiko Sushi Minamiten

Visit Shinsekai but don’t like to eat fried food at all the kushikatsu restaurants? Drop by Daiko Sushi in Jan Jan Arcade for a budget-friendly and fun meal.

Sushi Tokoro Jinsei

Sushidokoro Jinsei is a small sushi restaurant located in Shinsaibashi District. It’s a pretty cool place that’s totally worth the money. From food to service, everything is very well cared for. Of course, you’ll enjoy sushi in a fancy atmosphere at this place.

Location: Minami Price range: Moderately low

Ramen (#traditional food in osaka)

Chukasoba Kazura

Not all ramen is made the same. Chukasoba Kazura in Awaza serves shoyu chicken ramen with an amazing light soup that tastes like a mousse. Look for Kanji on the sign. You may have to line up with the locals, but it will definitely be worth a try.

Location: Central Osaka Price range: Moderately low

Ryukishin RIZE

Everyone needs to taste a bowl of ramen before departing from Japan. Ryukishin RIZE in Namba, with its savory bowl of shio ramen, is a popular restaurant as the famous instant noodles. A great destination for you if you like thick meat soup.

Menya Ageha (#what to eat in osaka)

For delicious ramen with meat within walking distance of Osaka Castle Park, try this famous local eatery. It’s casual and very friendly to drop by. The name is written in English on the brown noren door screen below the sign.

Location: Osaka Castle Price range: Low

Ramen Uroko

Osaka has a lot of great ramen shops but Ramen Uroko stands out even in harsh competition. Located at the stop on the south side of Shin-Osaka Station, this business serves an excellent ramen shio that will meet your taste for sure.

Izakaya / Sake (#what to eat in osaka)

Binbiya is a premium, Michelin-starred izakaya in Kita-Shinchi District that specializes in fresh, yet surprisingly affordable seafood dishes. The dinner here will not cost you more than 7,000 yen unless you order more drinks. Great value for the money!

Location: Kita Price range: Average

Chirori (#what to eat in osaka)

Chirori is a modern, local izakaya serving phenomenal small dishes and an extended collection of sake to pair with. Located one stop south of Shin-Osaka Station, this place is a wonderful spot for dinner with friends.

Location: Shin-Osaka Price range: Average

Osaka Yakiton Center

Interested in experiencing a local bar on your trip? Head to Osaka Yakiton Center in Namba for delicious grilled pork skewers. The English menu is not available; however, the staff are very friendly, and you can even pour your own wine!

Soba (#best food to eat in osaka)

Sobakiri Arabompu

Noodle restaurants are noticeable in Osaka. Enjoy your soba at Arabonpu in Kita District where the owner serves beautifully textured artisan noodles in a small, quiet shop.

Besides Shinsaibashi Station, Nishiya is a famous udon restaurant, long-established and great for a hearty meal in the middle of the shopping malls. They also serve dishes other than udon, so everyone can find something of their own here.

Shuhari (#best food to eat in osaka)

Shuhari is a soba specialist eatery not too far from Osaka Castle Park. Their soba and tempura are very chewy and well-processed. The wasabi is fresher than anywhere else. Look for the wooden steps at the entrance.

Location: Osaka Castle Price range: Average

Udon (#best food to try in osaka)

Kidatake (#must eat food in osaka)

Kidatake is a simple, raw udon restaurant located in Namba, which serves one of the best bowls of udon noodles in the city. It’s perfect for a casual lunch while exploring the area.

Tokumasa Udon

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The holder of a Michelin star for multiple years, Hozenji Sushidokoro Nakatani is famous for two things: the impeccable quality of its sushi, and the obscurity of the whole affair. 

Pictures of the food or interior are strictly forbidden. With its calendar only opening a month in advance, reservations are incredibly difficult to secure, and have a notoriously strict cancellation policy — the moment a reservation is secured, any change or cancellation incurs a 100% fee.

So why is Chef Nakatani Hiroyuki’s list of regulars so long? Because simply put, a meal at his restaurant is an experience. The counter seats only eight, and Chef Nakatani makes sure to give each diner personal attention. His 20-item course is made with exceptional care and attention, using ingredients that he purchases every morning at local Osaka markets. 

In true Edomae tradition , Chef Nakatani also keeps his shelves well-stocked with a fine selection of sake, and his encyclopedic knowledge of it means he’s always ready to give pairing recommendations. Right next to Hozenji Temple, it’s an easy recommendation to anyone giving the area a visit. 

Reserve your seat for Michelin star sushi at Hozenji Sushidokoro Nakatani.

2. BELLA PORTO 

Nakatsu restaurant BELLA PORTO — “beautiful port” in Italian, though not often spelled with quite as much gusto — takes its name not just from Osaka’s historic status as one of Kansai’s main ports, but also due to its desire to serve as a “port” that connects diners with the hard work of farmers from all over Japan. 

BELLA PORTO’s main draw is its commitment to organic, pesticide-free produce, sourced from the surrounding areas of Amagasaki and greater Osaka, but also from as far away as Kanagawa. 

Skilled chefs turn these ingredients into novel, contemporary dishes, like petits fours made from flowers, served with kombucha consomme, or a foam-topped vegetable potage that the chefs call “Blessings of the Earth.” 

Unsurprisingly, with such an emphasis on organic ingredients, the chefs are only too willing to accommodate various dietary restrictions to the best of their abilities. Make an inquiry when making a reservation — you’d be surprised as to how far they’ll go. 

Reserve a spot at BELLA PORTO for organic Italian cuisine.

3. Wagyu Kappo Toraichi 

Like it or not, Japanese fine dining is often exclusive. Many of the finest restaurants have members-only requirements. Among them is Wagyu Kappo Toraichi , a restaurant in the upscale Umeda district of central Osaka.

An inconspicuous, unassuming establishment on the street corner of two major thoroughfares, a service at Wagyu Kappo Toraichi grants members access to some of the best wagyu beef available in all of Japan. 

Smartly dressed chefs in waistcoats and shirtsleeves cut this fatty meat with machine-like precision, preparing it in a variety of different ways, complementing the luxurious beef with ample use of equally premium accompaniments like truffle and caviar. The meal isn’t complete without the head chef dispensing black pepper, by way of a colossal pepper grinder the size of a small boat anchor. 

This experience is ordinarily limited to a select number of members, who have to go through a selection process before they are even granted access. However, byFood enjoys a special agreement with Toraichi, giving guests a back door into this highly exclusive wagyu experience. 

Reserve a table for wagyu beef at Wagyu Kappo Toraichi.

4. Yakitori Matsuoka 

With its recent inclusion in the Michelin Guide 2024 as a Michelin Selected restaurant Yakitori Matsuoka has received a boost in popularity — but it enjoyed a significant following long before that. 

Located near Osaka Castle, Yakitori Matsuoka uses exclusively free-range kuro-o chicken from Kagoshima Prefecture in its dishes, a breed renowned for its flavor and texture. It is then grilled over white-hot Kishu bincho-tan charcoal, which gives it a smoky aroma that fills the mouth from the first bite. 

Paired with a glass from Chef Matsuoka Hiroki’s extensive selection of sake and whiskies — including the “phantom sake” Juyondai from Niigata Prefecture — it’s the pinnacle of yakitori experiences. 

Visitors will notice that there is a significant population of overseas travelers among its clientele; Chef Matsuoka’s fluency in English puts English speakers at ease, knowing that they can communicate with the chef without difficulty. 

Reserve Michelin Selected yakitori at Yakitori Matsuoka.

5. Sukiyaki Kushikatsu Haruna Honcho

Not all pork is made equal, and Sukiyaki Kushikatsu Haruna Honcho is determined to make people understand this. It’s a hotpot restaurant that uses mostly Ibu Biton pork from Wakayama Prefecture , one of the most highly regarded types of pork in all of Japan. 

Ibu Biton — literally translating to “beautiful pork” — is raised only on farms in the coastal town of Susami, and is the result of careful breeding between domestic pigs and wild boar, to give it the delicate fatty taste and satisfying texture of both, while getting rid of the characteristic gamey smell of the latter.

Fun fact: The pigs are also fed grain treated with plum vinegar extract, which gives the meat an especially sweet flavor. 

At Haruna Honcho, diners can choose to eat this beautiful meat either as sukiyaki (simmered in a mixture of mirin, soy sauce and sugar) or as shabu-shabu (flash-boiled, then dipped in a variety of different sauces). Shabu-shabu lets the pork’s natural flavor shine through more distinctly, but sukiyaki amplifies the pork’s innate sweetness. Nonetheless, it’s delicious regardless of how you choose to eat it. 

Reserve your seat for premium pork at Sukiyaki Kushikatsu Haruna Honcho.

6. Numata (or alternatively, Kitashinchi Tentomi)

Tempura in Osaka’s Umeda and Kitashinchi areas is dominated by one name: Numata . Unquestionably Osaka’s finest tempura restaurant, it is also only one of two double-Michelin-starred restaurants in Osaka to specialize in tempura (the other being the equally fantastic Shunsaiten Tsuchiya , which bills itself more as “tempura kaiseki”). 

Numata should definitely be on any foodie’s list, of course. But with the notoriously long waitlist and limited availability that come with holding two Michelin Stars, you might have to find an alternative.

Reserve your table at Numata (if you can!).

Alternative tempura restaurant in Osaka: Kitashinchi Tentomi

While they may not hold the same level of prestige as Numata, Kitashinchi Tentomi , literally just one block south of Numata, serves a 10- to 13-item tempura course at a fraction of the price — and actually ranks significantly higher on Tabelog. 

Specializing in seasonal tempura, such as ayu sweetfish and conger eel in the summer, the chefs at Tentomi try their best to make sure that no two omakase courses are ever exactly the same. 

7. Jibundoki 

When you think of Osaka food, you automatically think of one of two things: takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (a savory grilled pancake stuffed with various ingredients). There are few finer places in Osaka to try the latter than at Jibundoki , an okonomiyaki restaurant just south of Hommachi Station. 

If you’re looking for a more traditional okonomiyaki experience, this probably isn’t it. Jibundoki established its reputation on its esoteric takes on this Kansai staple, with fillings like ham-wrapped mochi and roasted potatoes. Strange but delicious — and the Michelin inspectors definitely agree, giving it a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2019.

Supplementing the star of the show is a wide selection of snacks and drinks. The kushiage (deep-fried skewers) in particular is just as eclectic as the okonomiyaki, featuring things like cheese and walnuts, or scallops with green peppers — things that you might not have thought lent themselves well to being deep-fried, but end up being surprisingly delightful. 

Reserve your table for Michelin Bib Gourmand okonomiyaki at Jibundoki.

8. Gastroteka Bimendi 

Kansai favorites like the aforementioned okonomiyaki and takoyaki are obviously popular in Osaka, but as one of the cultural centers of Japan, cuisines from all cultures and countries can be found in the city. 

One such restaurant is Gastroteka Bimendi , which has enjoyed unprecedented popularity in spite of serving a type of cuisine that would be considered esoteric even outside of Japan: Basque. 

This gastroteka brings food from the northern Basque country in Spain to Osaka’s Honmachi business district, making pintxos (small bites) with ingredients shipped directly from Spain, such as pickled sardines and Iberico pork. It’s also one of the very places that you can likely try traditional Basque cider, cloudy and extremely sour — but also infinitely drinkable. 

It hasn’t just proven to be popular with locals; Michelin inspectors awarded it a Bib Gourmand in 2021 for that beautiful balance of price and performance. 

Reserve for Michelin-recognized Spanish cuisine at Gastroteka Bimendi.

9. The New World 

Holder of a Michelin Bib Gourmand, The New World is one of the newer brainchildren of the legendary sio group, a Japanese restaurant group that collects Michelin accolades like they’re going out of fashion.

Set in the basement of Parco Shinsaibashi, this fusion izakaya sees a variety of faces seated at its counter, from salarymen after work to couples on date nights. All of them are drawn by the laid-back, casual atmosphere and the food, which is simultaneously adventurous and yet familiar. 

Japanese favorites like obanzai platters and beef bowls are given creative spins, the latter elevated by the use of wagyu beef sirloin from Amakusa in Nagasaki Prefecture. 

10. Kitashinchi Kushikatsu Bon 

Though it may now be famous all over the nation, kushikatsu is another street food with its roots in Osaka. The former holder of a Michelin Star, Kitashinchi Kushikatsu Bon takes this humble food and elevates it through its use of fine ingredients — including wagyu chateaubriand, foie gras and sea urchin — and impeccable technique. 

Omakase courses serve individual skewers of these precious ingredients, deep-fried with great skill in cottonseed oil to ensure that the taste of the oil is not overly cloying. Feel like a pairing to go with your skewers? A professional sommelier is on hand to offer recommendations from the restaurant’s extensive selection of French and Californian wines. 

For those worried about not knowing how to order, fear not — the worldwide popularity of Bon (it even has a Michelin-recognized outlet as far as Paris) means that the staff has made accommodations for overseas guests. An English menu is available, as are some English-speaking staff. 

With all these outstanding restaurants to try, you might be tempted to stay in Osaka for a while longer. Read through our 3-day Osaka itinerary , savor Osaka’s sushi scene with the best omakase sushi restaurants , or learn a new skill in these unforgettable Osaka cooking classes .

Best restaurants in Osaka FAQs

Are there vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Osaka?

Yes, Osaka offers a variety of vegetarian-friendly restaurants that cater to different dietary preferences.

What is the average cost of a meal at a restaurant in Osaka?

The average cost of a meal at a restaurant in Osaka can vary depending on the type of cuisine and the restaurant's location. On average, you can expect to pay around ¥1000 to ¥3000 per person.

What are some must-try dishes at restaurants in Osaka?

Osaka is famous for its street food like takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu. Don't miss out on these delicious local specialties when dining in Osaka!

Are there English menus available at restaurants in Osaka?

Many restaurants in Osaka cater to international visitors and offer English menus or have pictures on the menu to help non-Japanese speakers make their selections.

Do restaurants in Osaka accept credit cards?

While many restaurants in Osaka accept credit cards, it's always a good idea to have cash on hand as some smaller eateries may only accept cash payments.

Are reservations required at restaurants in Osaka?

Reservations are recommended, especially for popular restaurants or during peak dining hours. However, some restaurants may also accommodate walk-in customers.

You may also be interested in

Osaka Guide: The Best Things to See and Do in Two Days

(SPOT.ph)  As traveling has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, Japan has become one of the best countries to visit among Filipinos because of its reasonably priced flights from the Philippines, exciting culture , food that is satisfying to our palate, and its wide selection of goods that you can bring home. But the most attractive thing about this country is that you can travel from end to end by train, thanks to its very efficient transportation system. You can spend as little as five days visiting a few adjacent cities or as much as two weeks exploring the whole of Japan. And one of the top-of-mind cities in Japan that can be toured for a day or two is Osaka .

What to Know about Osaka, Japan

Osaka is the second largest metropolitan area and the second most populated city in Japan, next to Tokyo . Considered the more laid-back counterpart of the capital, Osaka is popularly known as the nation’s soul kitchen. The Osaka gastronomy started after the Osaka Castle was built by the new ruler Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583. Because Osaka was conveniently positioned at the center of everything, he envisioned making the city the core of commerce. He called merchants from neighboring regions of Sakai and Fushimi to trade the goods they transported via boats in Osaka. The city also became the trading center and source of staple goods, such as rice, that provided food to the entire nation. With this, Osaka flourished to become the Merchant City.

Because of the constant supply of raw ingredients from different parts of Japan, people in Osaka began experimenting with various dishes. The dashi, an essential ingredient unique to Japanese culture, made its first appearance in Osaka. Dashi has become integral to the flour-based dishes of Osaka cuisine, including udon, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. Today, Osaka has lived true to this promise of being the culinary capital by having some world-renowned chefs, overwhelmingly delicious street food, and the country’s most beloved dishes.

Osaka City Tour on Day 1

Osaka castle.

We’re all familiar with the traditional Japanese architecture of temples and castles that give Japan its unique charm. But the green and white facade of the Osaka Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan because of the history it symbolizes. Osaka Castle (or Osaka-jo in Japanese) was built by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, a feudal lord and warrior during the Sengoku period. His obsessed with gold is prominent in the castle's interior and exterior, which are adorned with this precious metal. He held the castle as a stronghold during a period of unrest, bringing temporary peace. Throughout history, the castle was destroyed by wars and fire, and the most recent reconstruction happened in 1928. Nevertheless, there are still original structures that have remained intact since the 1600s.

You can enter the castle to visit the museum, which details the extensive history of Osaka and the castle. On the top floor, you can see the view of the park surrounding the castle. The Osaka Castle Park opened in 1938 and is a popular destination during the sakura (cherry blossom) and koyo (falling leaves) seasons. If you want a picturesque view of Osaka Castle from afar, you might also want to ride a boat around the moat for the ultimate experience.

Osaka Castle is at 1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka,. The castle tower is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is 600 yen for adults.

Have you ever tried Pocky? The manufacturer of Pocky and one of Asia’s most popular confectionary companies, Glico, is advertised by the running man. The huge, neon sign is a landmark that brightens the entire Dotonbori stretch by the river. The sign features a man running on a blue race track, who was chosen as the official mascot for Glico’s first product, a candy caramel. The founder, Ri-ichi Ezaki, created the snack as an energy product by adding glycogen. Each treat can give you the energy to run 300 meters, so the running man becomes the appropriate representation of the treat.

Dating back to 1935, the sign had several overhauls to highlight sporting triumphs throughout the years, such as when Japan hosted the Soccer World Cup and the city supported the mighty Hanshin Tigers, Osaka’s baseball team. In recent times, the neon sign has also included known landmarks such as the Osaka Castle and the Tsutenkaku Tower in its background. Because of its vibrancy and retro-futurist vibe, the area below the Running Man has become the favorite meeting place of people. It is the center of all the fun activities in Dotonbori where you get to meet performers and magicians.

Glico Man is at 1-chōme-10-3 Dōtonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka.

Harukas 300

Want to see the 360-degree view of Osaka from the tallest skyscraper in the city? Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas, perfectly gives you that amazing view. The Harukas 300 observatory occupies the building's top three floors (58th - 60th).

On the 60th floor, covered by floor-to-ceiling glass panels, you can see the whole of Osaka and even the surrounding regions of Kyoto, Kobe, and the Rokko Mountains. Here, it feels as if you’re walking on air. On the 58th floor, you can see an open-air wooden deck space and a cafe. During the daytime, you see a diorama or a historical map below you. At sunset, there's the vicinity with a filter of gold turning to wine red as the dusk falls. At night, the cityscape looks like a box of jewels.

Abeno Harukas does not only have an observatory, but it also houses the largest department store in Japan, an art museum, and a hotel. The Abeno Harukas Kinetsu Department Store covers 100,000 square meters of retail space and occupies two buildings. Meanwhile, the Abeno Harukas Art Museum does not have a permanent art collection but has changing exhibitions of mainly Western and Buddhist art.

Harukas 300 is at 1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka. The observatory is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Tickets for adults cost 1800 yen per person.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Considered one of Japan’s most spectacular aquariums, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is located in Osaka’s bay area. The aquarium tries to recreate the natural environment of the aquatic animals of the Pacific Rim. The place is creatively built such that the 15 large tanks represent the various regions of the Pacific Ocean. The center of attraction, the Pacific Ocean, is a nine-meter deep, 34-meter long tank containing 5,400 tons of water that serves as the home of whale sharks. Other interesting tanks include the sunlit Japan Forest and the icy Antarctica.

In this two-and-a-half-hour trip to discover marine life, visitors take a spiral ramp from the eighth to the fourth floor. There are 30,000 creatures and 620 species, including otters, sea lions, penguins, dolphins, whale sharks, rays, and jellyfish. If you’re lucky, you can also witness them during feeding and training times.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is at 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka. It is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Admission fees cost 2,700 yen per adult.

Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda

Cup Noodles fans out there, which I bet is everyone, get excited about Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda. It has everything about Cup Noodles right at the birthplace of the world’s first instant noodles! How geeky and cute, right?

Momofuku Ando invented Chicken Ramen, noodles that cooked instantly by just adding hot water, using common tools in his backyard in 1958. On a trip to the U.S., however, he realized that supermarket managers didn’t find it super convenient to eat because they still needed a cup to heat the noodles. This gave way to his ingenious invention of the Cup Noodles in a disposable cup. With this innovation, he became the CEO and Chairman of Nissin Food Products. Later, he also invented the Space Ramen, which can be eaten in space.

Inside the museum, you will get a visualization of the personal story of Mr. Ando and how the Cup Noodles came to be. The exhibits also show the 800 product packages that came after Chicken Ramen. If you want some immersion, it’s also nice to try some activities such as designing and customizing your original CUPNOODLES package, where you can select your favorite soup and toppings. If you’re in for actual cooking, you can also make Chicken Ramen by hand. This includes kneading, spreading, steaming, seasoning, and drying the wheat flour.

Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda is at 8-25 Masumicho, Ikeda, Osaka. It is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day except on Tuesdays. Admission is free. For the activities, the my CUPNOODLES Factory activity costs 500 yen per person while the Chicken Ramen making costs 1,000 yen per adult.

Kuchu Teien Observatory

If you can’t get enough of the stunning Osaka cityscape, head to another equally good observatory at the Umeda Sky Building. Designed by the prominent architect Hiroshi Hara, The Umeda Sky Building consists of two 173m tall skyscrapers erected at the end of the economic bubble in 1993. The open-air Floating Garden Observatory of Kuchu Teien on the 39th floor links these two buildings together.

However, the observatory is not the only attraction that this tourist spot has. To reach the top, you will ride either of the two aerial escalators made of glass panels that will make you feel like you’re floating on air. This is one of the popular Instagrammable spots in the landmark.

Kuchu Teien Observatory is at 1-chōme-1-88 Ōyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka. It is open for visitors from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. every day. Tickets are at 1,500 yen per adult.

Shopping and Food Trip in Osaka on Day 2

Dotonbori food district.

Living and embodying the term "kuidaore" ("eat until you drop") that is used to describe the food scene in Osaka, the people of Osaka spend on quality food more than anything else in the world. The best place to experience this interesting food culture is in the Dotonbori district, packed with eateries serving well-loved local dishes. It is a paradise for foodies who want authentic Japanese food from street food vendors, Izakaya-style pubs, and all-you-can-eat restaurants. Some exciting food that you can try include takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, kitsune udon, teppanyaki, gyoza, and candied fruit.

Dotonbori Food District is in Chuo Ward, Osaka. The opening and closing times of establishments here vary, so we recommend that you check online before going.

Shinsaibashi-suji

Shinsaibashi-suji is a shopping haven for all kinds of shoppers. Spanning two kilometers, this shopping street has many cosmetics stores, clothing establishments, and character shops. The entrance to this strip is by the Glico Man sign. Drugstores are found on almost every block of this area, with two well-known chains, Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Daikoku Drug, selling Japanese cosmetics and medicines. Apparel and accessories shops, originally from Japan, such as Uniqlo, GU, and Owndays, are also conveniently located here. There are also quirky capsule toy specialty stores, 100-yen shops, and character shops around the area.

Shinsaibashi-suji is in Chuo-ku, Osaka.

Amerikamura

If you’re in for something hip and trendy, you should follow wherever the Osaka youngsters go. These young folks are always seen at Amerikamura, or what they call Amerikamura, which is the center for new trends and street fashion such as the Harajuku style. People go here to shop for vintage clothes, vinyl records, and sneakers imported from the West Coast of America. You can also spot new concept clubs here.

Amerikamura is in Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo Ward, Osaka.

Umeda is the place to be if you want an all-in-one luxurious shopping and entertainment experience. The skyscrapers around the area are malls that house high-end fashion shops, lifestyle boutiques, and technology stores. Three of the most famous shopping centers here are Grand Front Osaka, LUCUA Osaka, and Yodobashi Camera, all found near the Umeda station. Big department stores also offer different kinds of products: Hankyu Umeda Main Store for luxury items, Hanshin Department Store Umeda for food and souvenir specialties, and Daimaru Umeda for other fashion items. As for entertainment, you can find karaoke and dart bars around the area.

Umeda is in Kita Ward, Osaka.

Kuromon Market

The Kuromon Market is a 600-meter stretch known for its fresh seafood. The history of the place dates back to the early 19th century when fish traders did business in this area. Since establishing the market in 1902, it has grown to hold approximately 150 establishments today. Some of the vendors sell fresh seafood, vegetables, and meat, while others are eateries that serve smaller portions of noodles, curry, grilled seafood, onigiri, and pickled vegetables.

Kuromon Market is at 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka.

Shinsekai is a district that was developed after being neglected for decades. Paris was chosen as the model for the northern half of the district, with the Tsutenkaku Tower modeled after the Eiffel Tower. The southern portion drew inspiration from Coney Island in New York. At Shinsekai, you will also find the Janjan Youocho shopping street, with its famous kushikatsu shops. Kushikatsu, one of Osaka’s best-known specialties, is freshly fried skewers of chicken, beef, pumpkin, and asparagus with dipping sauce.

Shinsekai is at 1 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwaku, Osaka.

Extra Day at Universal Studios Japan

Just in case you have one more day to spare, you might want to spend it in Universal Studios Japan . Universal Studios Japan is the third most visited theme park globally. This is because its concept is a seamless fusion between the Eastern and Western cultures - the concept of huge theme parks mimicking famous Western cities and the introduction of iconic Japanese characters such as Mario and Luigi. 

How to Get Around Osaka

The easiest and cheapest way to go around most of Osaka is via the Osaka Metro train line . The city’s main hubs, which are Shin-Osaka, Kita, Honmachi, Minami, and Tennoji, are conveniently located on the Midosuji subway line of the Osaka Metro. There are just two tourist spots that are relatively off the line: Universal Studios Japan through the JR line and Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda through the Hankyu Line. A prepaid ICOCA card is the best way to pay for your trips across all train companies.

Where to Stay and Eat in Osaka

We recommend that you stay in a district that’s accessible to everything, meaning to the train stations and shopping areas. The most famous ones are Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Umeda. In Shinsaibashi, you can stay at Hotel Nikko or nearby hotels such as Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu or Courtyard by Marriott Osaka Honmachi. In Namba, you may want to check in at Swissotel Nankai Osaka, Hotel Royal Classic Osaka, or Citadines Namba Osaka. In Umeda, great choices are Hilton Osaka or Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka.

As for food, there are countless excellent restaurants around the metro. Therefore, we will suggest the best ones for each type of Japanese food that you might want to eat. A must-try for Kobe beef is Ishida, located at the Links Umeda Mall. You shouldn’t miss Gyukatsu Motomura, which has branches in Namba and Umeda for beef katsu.

For ramen, don’t get discouraged by the long lines of Ichiran; it means it’s a crowd favorite! Meanwhile, if you want to experience a Michelin-rated restaurant serving Osaka's iconic okonomiyaki, check out Mizuno in Dotonbori. If you’re just too tired to leave the Shinsaibashi and Namba vicinity but still want good food, we recommend that you try out Sushi Takeuchi, Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae, and Tempura Tarojiro.

How to Get to Osaka

Spending your vacation in Osaka is perfect for relatively short trips as it is only four hours away from the Philippines via a direct flight. You can take the Nankai or JR lines from Kansai International Airport to the city center. If you’re coming from Tokyo , we recommend you experience Japan’s bullet train, the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen, to get to Osaka in two and a half hours.

10 Under-the-Radar Destinations in Tokyo and Kansai

The SPOT.ph Guide to Japanese Food

Immerse Yourself in Art and History: Unveiling Tokyo's Museum at the Imperial Palace - Treasures of the Imperial Family at Sannomaru Shozokan

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2024 Osaka Festival Guide: 10 Famous Events and Highlights

Osaka's famous traditional festivals (matsuri) include the Tenjin Festival held in June, the spectacular Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, and many others. Read on to learn about 10 famous Osaka festivals with their 2024 schedules and highlights.

ISHIGAKI KUMIKO

2024 Osaka Festival Guide: See Highlight-Filled Events

In Japan, there are said to be a few hundred traditional festivals (matsuri), many of which are held from summer to autumn. They have many highlights including mikoshi (portable shrines) and danjiri (wooden carts in the shape of a shrine), food stalls, and fireworks.

Osaka is home to many famous festivals including the Tenjin Festival , one of the Three Great Festivals of Japan, and the Aizen Festival , Japan's oldest summer festival.

Traditional Festivals in Osaka

1. Aizen Festival (June): Japan's Oldest Summer Festival 2. Hiranogo Summer Festival (July): A Bustling Event With an Exciting Danjiri Parade 3. Taikodai Festival (July): See 7 Magnificent Taiko Floats! 4. Tenjin Festival (July): One of Japan's Three Main Festivals 5. Sumiyoshi Festival (July): See a Large Mikoshi Go Across a River! 6. Takatsuki Festival (August): Takatsuki Residents Celebrate Together! 7. Hassaku Festival (September): A 600-Year-Old Event 8. Mozuhachimangu Fall Festival (July): See Elegant Taiko Floats! 9. Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (September and October): Colorful Floats and Lively Shouts! 10. Toka Ebisu (January): A Festival to Start the New Year

1. Aizen Festival: Japan's Oldest Summer Festival

The Aizen Festival is held in June at Aizendo Shomanin Temple in Osaka's Tennoji Ward. It's famous as Japan's oldest summer festival and dates back some 1,400 years.

Aizendo Shomanin Temple, also affectionately known as Aizen-san by the local residents, is a spot where visitors come to pray for good health in the summer—historically a time of the year when epidemics spread easily.

The festival highlight is a traditional event known as the Hoekago Parade. During this event, young women (Aizen musume) dressed in summer kimonos called yukata, sit on a seat in a box (kago) and are carried by a group of people by means of two poles. The parade winds it way through the crowd in gorgeous fashion while people call out for business prosperity.

On the afternoon of June 30 the parade leaves Tennoji Park for Aizendo.

Food Stalls: Many stalls are typically set up on the temple grounds. Fireworks: Not held.

The 2024 Aizen Festival is scheduled to be held from Sunday, June 30 to Tuesday, July 2. For details please see the official website (Japanese).

2. Hiranogo Summer Festival: A Bustling Event With an Exciting Danjiri Parade

Photo by pixta

The Hiranogo Summer Festival is held at Kumata Shrine in Osaka's Hirano Ward. It's famous as one of Osaka's leading danjiri festivals, and it annually attracts more than 300,000 people.

The highlight is the evening of July 12 and 13. Elegant danjiri (decorative parade floats on wheels) representing nine neighborhoods from the former Hiranogo area make their appearance!

The nine floats compete in a pulling contest as they travel along Nanko-dori Street and head to the precincts of Kumata Shrine.

Food Stalls: 50 to 100 food stalls are typically set up. Fireworks: Not held

The 2024 Hiranogo Summer Festival is scheduled to be held from Thursday, July 11 to Sunday, July 14. For details please see the official homepage (Japanese).

3. Taikodai Festival: See 7 Magnificent Taiko Floats!

The Taikodai Festival is held at Kanda Shrine in Kaizuka City. This summer festival has a history of about 280 years.

As the festival's name suggests, it features a large taiko drum sitting on a portable shrine (mikoshi). Each of these gigantic drum floats weigh about 1.5 tons.

The floats carry both taiko drummers and children. It's an amazing sight to see them parade around the shrine with enthusiastic chants! Then, the night is illuminated by lanterns creating a magnificent atmosphere.

Food Stalls and Fireworks: Not available

The 2024 Taikodai Festival is scheduled to be held from Saturday, July 13 to Sunday, July 14. For details please see the official homepage .

4. Tenjin Festival: One of Japan's Three Main Festivals

The Tenjin Festival is an annual event that's held at Tenmangu Shrines located in every part of Japan. Osaka's Tenjin Festival is famous throughout the country and has a history dating back more than 1,000 years!

The highlight of the festival is Funatogyo, or the water procession, which is held on July 25. More than 100 boats come and go along the Okawa River (north of Osaka Castle) amid the sounds of taiko drumming and energetic chants!

One of the charms of Osaka's summer is the pyrotechnical display. About 1,300,000 people come to watch the 3,000 votive fireworks.

Food Stalls: Available Fireworks: Held at sunset on Thursday, July 25, 2024

The 2024 Tenjin Festival is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, July 24 and Thursday, July 25. For details please see the official homepage (Japanese).

5. Sumiyoshi Festival: See a Large Mikoshi Go Across a River!

The Sumiyoshi Festival is held at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka City's Sumiyoshi Ward. The festival is also known as Oharai, and it holds a ceremony to purify all of Osaka. This 3-day event attracts 300,000 people!

The main highlight is Mikoshitogyo, a parade of mikoshi portable shrines held on August 1. This parade starts at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and continues along a five-kilometer stretch until it reaches Shukuin Tongu Shrine. The powerful sight of the mikoshi being carried across the Okawa River is truly impressive!

Food Stalls: Yet to be decided for 2024 Fireworks: Not held

The 2024 Sumiyoshi Festival is scheduled to be held from Tuesday, July 30 to Thursday, August 1. For details please see the official homepage .

Otaue Shinji (June): A Rice-Planting Ritual To Pray for a Good Harvest

Otaue Shinji (Sacred Rice Planting) is a traditional rite that's held at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine on June 14. It's performed in order to pray for a bountiful harvest.

This ritual is also performed at shrines throughout the country. However, at Sumiyoshi Taisha, the ceremony is known for not being simplified, and its scale is also magnificent. There are performances by shrine maidens and rice-planting dances by children.

September: A Bright Red Sorihashi Bridge and Full Moon Stand Out

Kangetsu-sai (Moon-Viewing Festival) is a Shinto ritual that's held during the evening of the Harvest Moon.

This ritual is known for the beautiful magical atmosphere created by the full moon and the famous Sorihashi Bridge—a symbol for Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine.

6. Takatsuki Festival: A Celebration With Local Residents!

Picture courtesy of PR Times

The Takatsuki Festival is a civic event that attracts 100,000 people every summer.

It features many highlights including a Bon Odori Parade performed by skilled dancers, held along Keyaki-Odori Street in front of Takatsuki City Hall and at the Takatsuki Arts Theater. There's also a spectacular parade filled with performances by the Takatsuki Firemen's Band.

The festival is held at various venues throughout the city, and can be enjoyed by everyone from children to adults.

Food Stalls: Yet to be decided for 2024, but in 2023 many stalls were set up on the grounds of Toen Elementary School. Fireworks: Not held

The 2024 Takatsuki Festival is scheduled to be held on Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4. For details please see the official homepage (Japanese).

7. Hassaku Festival: A 600-Year-Old Event

The Hassaku Festival is held at Aguchi Shrine in Sakai City. It's a historic festival that's been around for more than 600 years.

It's highlighted by four distinctive floats known as "Futon Daiko." Futon Daiko is a large float with a taiko drum on top. These are often seen in the Kansai Region and are carried by groups of people by means of two long poles—just like the mikoshi portable shrines are.

The elegantly decorated Futon Daiko is carried by about 60 people. The sight of this float making its way to Aguchi Shrine is simply dynamic!

Food Stalls: Yet to be decided for 2024, but stalls were set up in 2023. Fireworks: Not held

The 2024 Hassaku Festival is scheduled to be held from Friday, September 8 to Wednesday, September 13. For details please see the official homepage (Japanese).

8.Mozu Hachimangu Fall Festival: See Elegant Taiko Floats

Mozu Hachimangu is a shrine located next to World Heritage Site, Daisen Kofun.

The Mozu Hachimangu Fall Festival , held in conjunction with the Harvest Moon, is visited annually by more than 100,000 people.

The highlight of this festival is a votive event in which Shinto-shrine parishioners from nine towns carry a Futon Daiko . The taiko drum really stands out with its fine workmanship which uses expensive ebony and rosewood!

Food Stalls: Many stalls are typically set up on the shrine precincts. Fireworks: Not held

The 2024 Mozuhachimangu Fall Festival is scheduled to be held on Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22. For details please see the official homepage (Japanese).

9. Kishiwada Danjiri Festival-Colorful Floats and Lively Shouts!

Picture courtesy of PRtimes

It's been said that Kishiwada City's Kishiwada Danjiri Festival first started about 300 years ago as a prayer for a good harvest.

The city is divided into two separate districts and the festival is held twice: once in September and also in October. September's version is considered to be more famous.

There are powerful and energetic performances you won't want to miss! This includes the narimono-gakari who beats the taiko drum and plays the flute atop the danjiri float, and the daiku-gata (carpenter) who performs an elegant dance on the roof of the float.

The top highlight of this event is "yarimawashi"—a maneuver in which the danjiri float negotiates the intersection at a 90-degree angle. This four-ton float is pulled through the streets amid energetic shouts and cries.

Food Stalls: Many stalls are typically set up. Fireworks: Not held

The 2024 Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is scheduled to be held from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 15, and also on October 6 (Sunday), 12 (Saturday), and 13 (Sunday). For details please see the official homepage .

10. Toka Ebisu: A Festival to Open the New Year

Photo by Pixta

In the Kansai Region, Toka Ebisu is a festival that's affectionately known as Ebessan . Visitors pray for business prosperity at this event held annually from January 9 to 11.

Osaka's version of this festival is held at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine in Osaka City's Naniwa Ward. It’s a large event that attracts about 1,000,000 people every year!

One of the highlights of this festival is fukumusume, or young women who are chosen from the public to help out with the festival. They ride in floats (hoekago) and parade around the Ebisubashisuji shopping street and pray for business prosperity.

Food and Merchandise Stalls: Available. Many visitors come to buy a kumade (rake) with the hopes of receiving good luck in business. Fireworks: Not held

The 2025 Toka Ebisu Festival is scheduled to be held from Thursday, January 9 to Saturday, January 11. For details please see the official homepage

Enjoy Fireworks and Food Stalls at Osaka's Famous Festivals

How did you enjoy today's article? There are probably many festivals that you've heard of but have yet to visit.

The festivals that were featured in this article are all famous and very popular. If you find out the route for the Futon Daiko and danjiri parades ahead of time it'll be really convenient!

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Ueno / Asakusa / Akihabara

Lives in Tokyo. My hobbies are traveling and appreciating art. I have an eye for delicious food, and after living in Beijing, China for five years, I discovered the deliciousness of hot pot.

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