Osaka, the center of Japan’s Kansai area, is famend for its culinary tradition and avenue meals scene. From mouth-watering Takoyaki to savory Okonomiyaki, Osaka’s native delicacies will tantalize even essentially the most discerning of style buds.

However exploring town’s meals tradition isn’t the one attraction — Osaka additionally boasts a wealthy historical past and a singular mix of conventional and fashionable sights. From the enduring Osaka Fort, a towering monument to Japan’s wealthy feudal historical past, to the neon-lit streets of the Dotonbori district, a sensory explosion of colourful indicators, bustling crowds, and mouth-watering aromas, there isn’t any scarcity of wonderful experiences available on this unimaginable metropolis.

Becoming a member of the ranks of Tokyo and Kyoto as considered one of Japan’s must-visit locations, Osaka is a metropolis that rewards exploration, discovery, and a willingness to dive headfirst into the unknown. So pack these baggage and put together to find the wealthy tapestry of tradition, historical past, and delicacies that makes this metropolis such a beloved vacation spot for vacationers from world wide.

This entire information is the proper companion to discovering one of the best that Osaka has to supply. Get able to fall in love with Osaka’s dynamic vitality and take pleasure in among the greatest avenue meals on the planet.

Issues To Do In Osaka

Whereas guests can spend days, if not weeks, exploring Osaka’s hidden gems, listed here are ten must-do actions in Osaka, together with visiting iconic landmarks like Osaka Fort and exploring hidden native haunts like Shinsekai.

1 Wander By means of The Dotonbori District

Wander by means of the bustling Dotonbori District to expertise the colourful coronary heart of Osaka’s avenue meals tradition. This energetic district, recognized for its illuminated neon indicators and eccentric environment, has been a preferred leisure vacation spot for the reason that 1600s.

The district was named after a canal that was constructed throughout this era to extend the move of products between neighboring cities. Guests can take pleasure in dishes like Takoyaki, a deep-fried ball of octopus goodness, and Kushikatsu, deep-fried skewered meats, and greens.

Other than the meals, guests can take within the energetic nightlife, discover the buying scene and snap an image with the enduring Glico Operating Man signal.

Associated: These Are The Finest 10 Excursions To Take In Osaka In 2022

2 Indulge In Thrills At Common Studios Japan

Common Studios Japan is the proper vacation spot for these looking for heart-thumping adventures and out-of-this-world leisure. With an array of themed sights, this theme park is ideal for a day of enjoyable, laughter, and pleasure.

Vacationers can discover the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, crammed with magical potions, Hogwarts Fort, and the Forbidden Journey. Take a journey by means of Jurassic Park, encounter life-sized raptors, and scream on the best way down from the epic drops.

Guests can even immerse themselves within the dynamic world of action-packed films with life-size installations like Spider-Man and Transformers or hop on over to Tremendous Nintendo World and revel in a fast recreation of life-sized Mario Kart fueled by augmented actuality.

Associated: A Information To All the pieces Price Experiencing At Common Studios Japan

With numerous distinctive park sections filled with thrilling rides, sights, and dwell reveals, Common Studios Japan is a one-stop store for a thrill-packed extravaganza.

• Tackle:
  2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan

• Hours:
  Opening hours differ however normally vary from about 8 to 9 am till about 7 pm; test the web site for correct hours

• Tickets:
  Buy tickets on-line prematurely or on the gate; one-day studio cross grownup tickets price ￥8,600 (about $63.35 USD)

3 Discover Sea Life At The Osaka Aquarium

Vacationers on the lookout for an unforgettable aquatic expertise should go to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Identified for its huge water tanks that home over 30,000 creatures representing not less than 620 species, it’s one of many world’s most spectacular aquariums.

The spotlight of the aquarium is the Pacific Ocean tank, which holds an immense illustration of the Pacific Ocean’s marine life. The aquarium is split into a number of sections, from the Arctic area to the tropical rainforest, every with its distinctive sea creatures.

Guests can see creatures resembling an enormous crab, a whale shark, and numerous playful dolphins (amongst different sea life), making Osaka Aquarium a unprecedented place to discover the underwater world.

• Tackle:
  1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan

• Hours:
  Monday to Friday from 10 am to eight pm; Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 am to eight pm

• Tickets:
  Vacationers can buy Osaka Aquarium tickets on-line prematurely; tickets begin at ￥2,700 (slightly below $20 USD)

Arrive after 5 pm to take pleasure in a nighttime expertise when the aquarium modifications the music, and the fish start to swim underneath synthetic moonlight.

4 Marvel At The Historical past Of The Osaka Fort

Nestled within the coronary heart of Osaka sits the majestic and iconic Osaka Fort. Constructed within the mid-Sixteenth century by Hideyoshi Toyotomi (often known as Japan’s Napoleon), this fortress symbolizes energy, status, and resilience for generations.

Its elegant structure and breathtaking magnificence affirm its standing as a nationwide treasure, and visiting this grand construction will transport vacationers to a different period altogether.

Guests can take a stroll by means of the fortress’s meticulously preserved gardens, admire the gorgeous view of town from the uppermost flooring (there are eight in whole), or discover the fortress museum to achieve a deeper understanding of Osaka’s wealthy historical past.

• Tackle:
  1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan

• Hours:
  Day by day from 9 am to five pm

• Tickets:
  ¥ 600 for adults; free for kids 15 and underneath

• Getting There:
  The Osaka Fort is accessible by the Tanimachi, Chuo, and Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi metro strains in addition to the Osaka Loop line and Tozai line of the JR prepare system

The Osaka Fort is surrounded by over 260 acres of lush greenery, making it the proper respite from the hustle and bustle of town.

5 Snap Photographs At The Kuchu Teien Observatory

For unimaginable panoramic views of Osaka’s huge skyline, the Kuchu Teien Observatory, located atop the Umeda Sky Constructing, gives an unparalleled expertise. This landmark constructing is 173 meters excessive and is broadly thought of considered one of Japan’s most exceptional architectural feats.

Guests can take a fast journey on the categorical elevator and revel in a surprising 360° chook’s eye view of the bustling metropolis from the open-air deck on the observatory, aptly known as “Kuchu Teien” as a result of it means “The Floating Backyard” in Japanese.

• Tackle:
  Japan, 〒531-6039 Osaka, Kita Ward, Oyodonaka, 1 Chome−1−88 梅田スカイビル

• Hours:
  Day by day from 9:30 am to 10:30 pm (the final entry to the observatory deck is at 10 pm)

• Tickets:
  Guests can buy tickets to the Kuchu Teien Observatory on-line; the associated fee is ¥1,500 for adults and ¥700 for kids ages 4 to 12

There are reductions for folks with disabilities, and guests can even take pleasure in decreased ticket costs by buying a Koji Kinutani Tenku Artwork Museum ticket set with entry to the observatory.

6 Pattern Osaka Road Meals At Kuromon Market

No go to to Osaka is full and not using a journey to town’s culinary coronary heart, the Kuromon Market. This bustling hub is house to over 150 meals stalls and distributors, every providing delectable bites which might be assured to tantalize style buds.

From recent seafood to juicy wagyu beef skewers, crispy Takoyaki to mouth-watering Okonomiyaki, Kuromon Market has all of it.

A avenue vendor named Tomekichi Endo created Takoyaki in Osaka within the Nineteen Thirties.

One of the crucial common meals objects available in the market is tuna sashimi, which is sourced recent from close by ports and served sashimi-style, with a facet of wasabi, soy sauce, and pickled ginger. One other must-try is the oden, a conventional Japanese dish made of varied elements simmered in savory dashi broth, resembling daikon radish, fish desserts, and boiled eggs.

Meals-focused vacationers strolling by means of the market ought to preserve their eyes peeled for the enormous Hokkaido scallops, the plump, juicy strawberries, and the massive chunks of fatty, marbled beef which might be grilled to perfection on the spot.

• Tackle:
  2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan

• Hours:
  Opening hours differ relying on the stall, however typically from 8 am to six pm

7 Take pleasure in The Vibrant Lights Of Minami

The Minami district of Osaka is an brisk and thrilling place to discover after darkish. Generally known as town’s leisure hub (it’s tremendous near the Dotonbori district talked about above), Minami gives a plethora of actions that cater to a various vary of pursuits.

As guests stroll alongside the neon-lit streets, they are going to discover themselves surrounded by theaters, arcades, and karaoke rooms.

Guests will discover the outdated neighborhood of Shinsekai tucked away in Minami. It was inbuilt 1912, with the southern half of the neighborhood modeled after New York and the northern half after Paris.

The realm can also be recognized for its scrumptious avenue meals, with Takoyaki balls and Okonomiyaki pancakes the proper snack to gas an evening of exploration. Alternatively, catch a conventional theatre efficiency on the Shochikuza Theatre or just benefit from the energetic environment outside if the climate’s good.

8 Take part In A Japanese Tea Ceremony

Able to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Osaka’s busy streets? Benefit from the serene environment of a conventional Japanese tea ceremony.

Originating centuries in the past, the tea ceremony, or “chanoyu,” is a cultural exercise that goals to deliver concord to the thoughts, physique, and spirit by means of the appreciation of finely ready tea served in a tranquil setting.

In Osaka, there are a number of locations to expertise a conventional tea ceremony, together with the Urasenke Tea Ceremony, considered one of Japan’s oldest and most revered tea colleges, within the neighboring metropolis of Kyoto.

The Kimono Tea Ceremony, held at Maikoya in Osaka, is one other common alternative, held at Maikoya, and teaches visitors in regards to the wealthy historical past of the distinctive custom.

9 Discover The Historic Shitennoji Temple

In-built 593 AD, the Shitennoji Temple is the primary Buddhist temple to be established in Japan. This historical temple was initially constructed by Prince Shotoku, often known as the daddy of Japanese Buddhism. The temple grounds are house to quite a few historic buildings, together with a five-story pagoda, a principal corridor, and a treasure home.

Guests can discover the temple’s peaceable gardens (totally free), that are adorned with cherry blossom bushes and conventional Japanese structure. There’s a price for coming into the Gokuraku-jodo Backyard, or treasure home, there’s a price.

Nonetheless, inside, there’s a gorgeous five-storied pagoda positioned within the pebble-covered courtyard. Guests can even try the Most important Corridor (known as Kondo), which enshrines Prince Shotoku as a statue of Kannon.

Do not miss the chance to expertise a Buddhist ceremony, which is held six occasions every day on the Rokujido.

• Tackle:
  1 Chome-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan

• Hours:
  Day by day from 8 am to 4 pm

• Tickets:
  Visitors are required to buy a separate entry ticket for every space; ticket costs differ relying on age however begin at ¥100 (about $.74 USD)

10 Go to The Mozu Tombs

The Mozu Tombs are a must-visit for historical past buffs and archeology fanatics alike. Positioned in Sakai Metropolis, simply south of Osaka, these historical burial mounds date way back to the third century and are actually thought of a UNESCO World Heritage Web site.

Consisting of over 100 tombs in whole, they’re the biggest burial mounds constructed in Japan through the Kofun interval. Guests can discover the inside of among the tombs, that are adorned with clay figures, swords, and different ceremonial objects, by way of digital actuality on the Sakai Metropolis Museum.

On the coronary heart of the Mozu Tombs lies the Daisenryo Kofun, the biggest tomb on the positioning and one of many largest in Japan. Standing at a towering 35 meters excessive and measuring 486 meters in size, the tomb is a testomony to the unimaginable engineering feats of historical Japanese civilization.

Whereas it hasn’t been confirmed, the Daisenryo Kofun is assumed to accommodate the late Emperor Nintoku.

• Tackle:
  Daisencho, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka 590-0035, Japan

• Hours:
  Open 24 hours

• Tickets:
  Free admission

11 Finest Time To Go to Osaka

Osaka is greatest skilled through the spring and fall seasons when the local weather is delicate, and town is bustling with festivals and occasions.

Springtime, from March to Could, sees the blooming of cherry blossoms across the metropolis, remodeling Osaka right into a picturesque canvas of pink and white hues. Within the fall, from September to November, town is a panorama of autumn foliage.

Associated: 10 Ideas For Chasing Cherry Blossom Season In Japan

12 The Finest Method To Get Round Osaka

With a sprawling cityscape and wonderful public transit system, exploring Osaka’s eccentric neighborhoods may be each enjoyable and daunting. From using the fashionable metro to studying the best way to get a Japan Rail Cross, discover one of the best ways to navigate town like a neighborhood.

Strolling

Among the finest methods to discover Osaka is by foot. Town is compact and straightforward to navigate, with charming alleyways and bustling streets which might be attainable to traverse solely in a few hours.

Wander by means of the energetic neighborhoods of Dotonbori and Shinsekai, discovering infinite choices for indulging in native avenue meals. Take a leisurely stroll by means of the peaceable Osaka Fort Park, admiring the blooming cherry blossoms within the spring or vibrant autumn foliage.

With loads of pedestrian-friendly areas, strolling is the proper approach for vacationers to immerse themselves within the vibrant vitality of Osaka.

Osaka Metro

Osaka boasts a complete public transportation system, with the metro being one of the best ways to get round and see most vacationer sights. In reality, the 5 principal metropolis hubs are conveniently positioned on the Midosuji subway line:

• Shin-Osaka
• Kita
• Central Osaka (Honmachi)
• Minami
• Tennoji

Solely two vacationer facilities, Osaka Fort Space and Osaka Bay Space, are off the Midosuji subway line. Nonetheless, vacationers can simply attain the Osaka Fort Space from Kita on the JR Osaka Loop line or from Honmachi by way of the Chuo subway line.

The Osaka Bay Space can also be reachable by the Chuo Line or the JR Yumesaki Line.

• Osaka metro fare:
  Fares are set in keeping with zones (of which there are 5) and begin at ¥180 (about $1.33 USD)

• The place to buy tickets:
  It’s tremendous fast and straightforward to buy metro tickets at any computerized ticket station contained in the metro stops

A pay as you go card, resembling Icoca, is essentially the most environment friendly approach to pay for trains and subways when exploring Osaka. These touring from Tokyo with a Suica or Pasmo card from Tokyo can even use these playing cards on Osaka public transportation (and the remainder of Kansai).

Vacationers ought to bear in mind to maintain observe of their tickets. They’ll be required to insert them into the ticketing machine when exiting the metro at their vacation spot.

JR Trains

Vacationers planning to go to different cities exterior of Osaka can purchase a Japan Rail Cross, which is simply obtainable to international vacationers. These passes enable limitless entry to the JR prepare community, together with the Shinkansen bullet trains, native prepare strains, and JR bus providers.

With a wide range of cross choices obtainable, guests can simply discover all that Osaka has to supply.

• Value of 7-Day Cross:
  ¥33,610 (about $247.60 USD)

• Value of 14-Day Cross:
  ¥52,960 (about $390.14 USD)

• Value of 21-Day Cross:
  ¥66,200 (about $487.68 USD)

With a JR Cross, guests can simply navigate Osaka’s intensive rail community, from the bustling Umeda district to the charming neighborhoods of Tennoji and Shinsaibashi.

Plus, the cross will also be used for day journeys to close by cities like Kyoto and Kobe, making it a flexible and cost-effective choice for these trying to totally discover the Kansai area and past.

Associated: All the pieces You Ought to Know About Utilizing A Japan Rail Cross

Metropolis Buses

Whereas most vacationers will discover the metro and rail system to be environment friendly and handy sufficient for short-term visits, Osaka metropolis buses additionally provide a handy and reasonably priced choice for locating the metropolis. The buses function on a fixed-fare system and provide numerous route choices.

• Grownup bus fare:
  ¥210 ($1.55 USD)

• Baby bus fare:
  ¥110 ($.81 USD)

Think about Japanese bus etiquette earlier than getting on a bus in Osaka. For instance, riders pay for his or her fare when exiting the bus in Osaka. It’s additionally essential to notice that riders board in the midst of the bus, not within the entrance, as is the case in most Western nations.

One of the best ways to pay for an Osaka bus fare is with an Icoca, Pasmo, or Suica pay as you go card.

13 The place To Eat In Osaka

Generally known as Japan’s avenue meals capital, Osaka is a culinary haven that boasts numerous and mouth-watering cuisines. Expertise town’s scrumptious choices at each nook at among the best locations to eat in Osaka under.

Associated: Japanese Meals Etiquette: The Dos And Don’ts Of Eating In Japan

Breakfast

Elk New York Brunch

• Tackle:
  Japan, 〒545-0052 Osaka, Abeno Ward, Abenosuji, 1 Chome−6−1 あべのキューズモール地下1階

• Hours:
  Day by day from 10 am to 9 pm

• Beneficial:
  Don’t depart with out ordering their extremely fluffy pancakes; the Eggs Benedict is a superb choice, although, for these craving a savory breakfast in lieu of one thing candy

Melbourne Espresso

• Tackle:
  1F Sanei Moor Constructing ３丁目 ８ 7 ８, 8 Minamisenba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0081, Japan

• Hours:
  Day by day from 9 am to 1 pm

• Beneficial:
  Vacationers swear this place serves the very best espresso in Osaka (the joint is run by an Australian, so it’s price sampling their flat white), with different favorites together with the muesli and avocado smash

Lunch

Craft Burger Co.

• Tackle:
  1 Chome-6-12 Kitahorie, Nishi Ward, Osaka, 550-0014, Japan

• Hours:
  Day by day from 11:30 am to 10:30 pm

• Beneficial:
  Their 100% additive-free beef comes straight from Hokkaido and is price sampling of their Deluxe Beef Burger; if it’s not too early, pair it with considered one of their chilly beers

Kaminari Sushi

• Tackle:
  1 Chome-9-20 Sennichimae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0074, Japan

• Hours:
  Day by day from 4 pm to 12 am

• Beneficial:
  They open later within the afternoon, making this spot nice for a late lunch or early sushi dinner; diners really useful ordering the toro and unagi

Dinner

OKO — Enjoyable Okonomiyaki Bar

• Tackle:
  Japan, 〒542-0083 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Higashishinsaibashi, 1 Chome−13−9 ２

• Hours:
  Day by day from 6 pm to 2 am

• Beneficial:
  That is one of the best spot for plant-based Okonomiyaki in Osaka; the nice and cozy, cozy vibes and enjoyable environment are an added plus

Stardust

• Tackle:
  1-1-88, Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 531-6023

• Hours:
  Day by day from 5 pm to 10:30 pm

• Beneficial:
  Uncover this fashionable restaurant on the thirty ninth ground of Osaka’s Umeda Sky Constructing whereas indulging in nice Italian dishes and sweeping metropolis views

Drinks

Dotonbori Riverside Grill Surprise

• Tackle:
  Japan, 〒542-0071 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Dotonbori, 1 Chome−1−6 B1 川沿い

• Hours:
  Day by day from 5 pm to 2 am

• Beneficial:
  This riverside bar and grill serves up some gorgeous views alongside nice drinks, like conventional Japanese sake

Bar Nayuta

• Tackle:
  Japan, 〒542-0086 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nishishinsaibashi, 1 Chome−6−17 マリオビル5F

• Hours:
  Day by day from 5 pm to three am

• Beneficial:
  Discover the hidden entrance close to Triangle Park and waltz into an intimate area filled with craft cocktails and nice vibes (strive the wasabi-based cocktail if it’s on the menu)

14 The place To Keep In Osaka

Osaka is a metropolis that by no means sleeps, boasting numerous choices for vacationers trying to keep the night time. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious accommodations providing gorgeous metropolis views, there’s something for everybody on this vibrant metropolis.

Finances-Pleasant

Resort Wing Worldwide Premium Osaka-Shinsekai

• Tackle:
  3-6-16 Ebisuhigashi, Osaka 556-0002

• Facilities:
  24-hour reception, air con, in-room TV, fridge, shampoo and pajamas, backyard views

• Value based mostly on double occupancy:
  $54/night time

Mid-Degree

Resort The Leben Osaka

• Tackle:
  2-Chome-2-15 Minamisenba Chuo Ward, Osaka 542-0081

• Facilities:
  Free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, free toiletries, pajamas, air con, parking, bathtubs, feather pillows, a four-minute stroll from Nagahoribashi Station

• Value based mostly on double occupancy:
  $153/night time

Luxurious

Conrad Osaka

• Tackle:
  Nakanoshima 3-2-4, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0005

• Facilities:
  Indoor pool, health heart, bar and lounge, spa and wellness heart, espresso machine, pajamas, free toiletries, close to monuments, sweeping views

• Value based mostly on double occupancy:
  $479/night time

15 How To Spend The Good Day In Osaka

Osaka is a metropolis that by no means sleeps, crammed with scrumptious meals, breathtaking sights, and thrilling issues to do. Vacationers with simply at some point to spend in Osaka needn’t fear — with this journey information, it’s attainable to find the magic of Osaka and switch simply at some point into an unforgettable expertise.

Begin the day proper with a scrumptious breakfast at a neighborhood café or bakery. Take pleasure in a conventional Japanese breakfast of miso soup, rice, and natto, or go for a Western breakfast at one of many metropolis’s fashionable cafés, like Melbourne Espresso, to take pleasure in a flat white and a few granola.

After breakfast, hop on the well-connected metro system and head to Osaka Fort, one of many metropolis’s most well-known landmarks. Discover the fortress’s internal courtyard and gardens, and climb to the highest for a surprising panoramic view of town.

For lunch, head to Dotonbori, the place there are all kinds of avenue meals distributors and native eating places. Strive some Takoyaki, a preferred Osaka specialty made with octopus and dough balls. Then, stroll off lunch by exploring the buying streets of Shinsaibashi.

Within the afternoon, take a stroll in Nakanoshima Park, positioned within the coronary heart of town. The sprawling greenery and seasonal bushes create a serene and peaceable environment. Tradition-hungry guests can even go to the Osaka Museum of Historical past to study Osaka’s wealthy historical past.

Because the solar units, head to Shinsekai, a energetic neighborhood recognized for its colourful neon indicators and scrumptious avenue meals. Right here, vacationers can expertise Osaka’s nightlife and revel in some Kushikatsu earlier than wandering out and in of one of many space’s many karaoke bars.

Finish the day at a rooftop bar, the place vacationers can take pleasure in a drink whereas taking within the dazzling views of Osaka at night time. Certain, by the tip of the day, vacationers may not have seen every thing Osaka has to supply, however they’ve definitely captured the essence of this distinctive and vibrant metropolis.

FAQ

Q: What’s Osaka greatest recognized for?

Generally known as the nation’s kitchen, Osaka is legendary for its scrumptious delicacies, together with tasty avenue meals, conventional dishes, and Michelin-starred eating places.

Town can also be house to many thrilling festivals, together with the energetic Tenjin Matsuri Competition and the Osaka Fort Illuminage, whereas the Dotonbori district gives a bustling nightlife, neon lights, and mouth-watering basic Japanese dishes.

Q: Is Osaka nicer than Tokyo?

Evaluating Osaka to Tokyo is like evaluating apples to oranges — each are fantastic however completely different. Whereas Tokyo is thought for its modernity and custom, Osaka is legendary for its welcoming locals, scrumptious meals, and distinctive environment.

Each cities have their allure and are price together with on any serene journey by means of Japan.

Q: Is three days sufficient for Osaka?

Whereas guests might spend weeks exploring this Japanese metropolis, three days in Osaka is the proper period of time to find its distinctive allure.

Nonetheless, Osaka is a metropolis brimming with pleasure, so vacationers serious about immersing themselves within the tradition might keep for not less than 5 to seven days to present themselves sufficient time to actually see town with out feeling rushed.