osaka travel 2023

2023 OSAKA TRAVEL GUIDE (BUDGET + ITINERARY)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jan 3, 2023 | Featured , Itinerary , Japan , Osaka , Travel Guide | 37 comments

Osaka, Japan is a lively city blessed with dumbfounding infrastructures, well-edited shops, food haven, stylish hostels, and astonishingly spotless streets! Adding up to its allure are the utterly helpful and disciplined Japanese.  Here’s a travel guide blog to help you plan your trip to Osaka.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

WHERE IS OSAKA?

Osaka, is a prefecture situated in the Kansai region on Hunsho Island in Japan.  It is sandwiched by Kyoto in the north, Nara in the east and Wakayama in the south.  Osaka is largely known as the economic powerhouse of Kansai region, its capital is Osaka City, the erstwhile capital of Japan (Naniwa).

JAPAN TOURIST VISA

If you are a Philippine Passport holder, Japan visa is required to enter Japan.  You can apply for a single-entry Japan visa (good for 15 days) or a multiple-entry Japan visa (good for 5 years).

However, since the Japanese Embassy no longer entertains visa applications,  you have to lodge your Japan visa application through an accredited agency processing Japan visa. You can find the list here .

Click the link below for the step by step guide: JAPAN VISA REQUIREMENTS + APPLICATION + TIPS

OSAKA PRE-TRIP PREPARATION

BEST TIME TO VISIT OSAKA: Osaka is a year-round destination, you will not run out of reasons to visit regardless of the season.  But since most travelers going to Osaka also want to visit the nearby Kyoto and Nara, it best to visit during October to November for autumn (colorful foliage) and March to May for spring (cherry blossoms)

ATM/MONEY EXCHANGE: As soon as we landed at Kansai International Airport, we exchanged our money near the arrival area.  I usually bring some PHP cash jut in case my ATM card don’t work in Japan.  Otherwise, you can just withdraw from the international ATMs in 7-Eleven.  Take note that many ATMs in Japan do not accept foreign credit card, debit card or ATMs. I usually use 7-Eleven because that’s where my ATM card works, I tried at other convenience stores but my card is usually declined. You can also try at Family Mart or Lawson ATMs, but they don’t work for my ATMs.  Withdrawal fee is usually JPY 600 / PHP 300/ USD 6.   Make sure to inform your bank that you will be traveling to Japan so you won’t have a problem withdrawing overseas. If you plan to bring Japanese Yen, you can exchange some at Sanry’s in Robinson  Forum (Robinson Pioneer) in Mandaluyong or  Sanrys in Glorietta 4.  Or if Sanry’s is too far for you, just bring PHP money and change it at Money Changers at the airport.

WI-FI/INTERNET ACCESS: Having internet while traveling around Japan is important.   Most likely you will be using the train in getting around which is fast, reliable but is quite complex.  Google Maps and Hperdia.com will be your travel buddy. Google Maps can help you track your location and how far you are from your destination, I’ve been using this during my bus and train trips. You can also use this to check what train and subway to ride and at which platform.  Hyperdia.com can also help you decide which train to ride, where to get off and how much you need to pay for the train ride. But I usually use this for planning my itinerary ahead of time or when searching for shinkansen trains that is covered by JR Pass.

When arriving at Kansai International Airport, you can rent a Wi-Fi router at the arrivals section.  However, you need a credit card and because it is in-demand, they usually run out.  So to avoid the hassle of looking for a Wi-Fi router, you can rent before leaving the Philippines, you can rent a 4G WiFi pocket handy device with convenient pick up  and drop off at all international airports in Japan.  You can enjoy 4G Wi-Fi coverage across Japan on a pay per day rental basis and connect up to 5 devices on the same pocket Wi-Fi router.

You can rent a pocket Wi-Fi : RESERVE HERE  

ELECTRICITY: Osaka uses 2 electric plugs, Type A and Type B. If you’re from the Philippines, we use the same type of power plug, so I didn’t need to use my travel adapter. For other nationalities, best to bring  a travel adapter. Japan standard voltage is 100 V and 60 HZ in Western Japan including Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.

LANGUANGE: Kansai dialect is the language used in Osaka. People working for tourism-related establishments speaks English,.eg. hotel staff and restaurant staff. It helps to learn a few essential Japanese phrases like:

OSAKA SAFETY: Osaka, like the rest of Japan, is generally safe for tourist, even for solo travellers. The Japanese are probably the most polite and helpful people I’ve encountered on my travels. Despite the language barrier, they will do their best to help you.

WHERE TO STAY IN OSAKA

If you’ve already made up your mind that Osaka will be your base for your Japan trip, the next question is, where to stay in Osaka? Well, it really depends on your itinerary, but the following are popular options:

1.NAMBA AREA. If you will be staying most of the time in Osaka, this is your best bet. Namba Station, the main subway makes it easy to get to and from the airport. There’s also a direct bus to and from Kansai Airport. Plus, the shopping areas (Shinsaibashi and Horie) and food haven (Dotonburi) are nearby. For first timers in Osaka, Namba area is easier to navigate than Umeda.

BUDGET HOTELS IN NAMBA:

HOSTEL WASABI OSAKA

CHECK RATES HERE  OR RESERVE HERE

Room Type: Dorm

Nearest subway/train station: Namba (Metro)Station North exit, Osaka-Namba Station, Nippombashi Station (Metro), and Kintetsu Nippombashi.

How to get there:

1.From Kansai Airport, take the Nankai-Limited Express or Nankai-Airport Express Train to Nankai-Namba.

2.Get off at Namba Station.

3.Walk to hotel. 5 mins.

NINE HOURS NAMBA STATION

CHECK RATES HERE OR  RESERVE HERE

  Room Type: Capsule

Nearest subway/train station: Namba Station (Metro)

3.Walk to hotel. 3 mins.

  BUSINESS INN NAMBA

CHECK RATES HERE   OR RESERVE HERE

Room Type: Single and Double Rooms

Nearest subway/train station: Osaka-Namba Station, Namba Station (Metro)

3.Walk to hotel. 9 mins.

HOTEL SHIN-IMAYA

CHECK RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE

Nearest subway/train station: Shin-Imaya Train Station

1.From Kansai Airport, take the Nankai-Limited Express Train to Nankai-Namba.

2.Get off at Shin-Imamiya Station.36 minutes.

3.Walk to hotel (use Google Maps) .

2.UMEDA (OSAKA STATION) AREA. Staying in Umeda is a better choice if you will be exploring other cities in Kansai Region like Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, etc. because it is the hub of JR Lines (Osaka Station) and Hankyu and Hanshin Line (Umeda Station). So yes, basically Umeda Station and Osaka Station are both located in the same area – it’s just that,  Osaka Station is for JR Lines while Umeda Station is for Hankyu and Hanshin Lines. The subway/metro stop here is also called Umeda Station. There’s also a direct Limousine Bus from Kansai Airport to Umeda/Osaka Station.

BUDGET HOTELS IN UMEDA AREA:

HOTEL WBF KITASEMBA WEST

Nearest subway/train station: Hommachi Station (Metro),Sakaisuji-Hommachi Station (Metro)

2.Get off at Umeda Station.

HOTEL DAIKI OSAKA

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE

Nearest subway/train station: Ogimachi Station (Metro), Temma Station (JR Line)

1.Take the Kansaikuko Line Kanku-Rapid to Kyobashi (JR Line)

2.Get off at Temma Station.

1.Take the Nankai-Kuko Line Airport Express to Nankai-Namba

2.Alight at Tengachaya Station

3.Walk to Tengachaya Station (Metro)

4.Take the Sakaisuji Line (brown line) to Tenjimbashisuji-6-chome Station

5.Alight at Ogimachi Station

6.Walk to hotel

Anyway, whatever area you choose, remember that these 2 areas (Umeda and Namba) are just 10 minutes away from each other by subway. Just make sure you check the hotel address before booking to see if it’s near the subway station or the main tourist attractions.

3. TENNOJI AREA. This is Osaka’s 3 rd major downtown hub. It has direct access to Kansai Airport. It is located 4 stops (by subway) south of Namba. It has pretty much gotten a facelift now, especially with the rise of Abeno Harukas – the highest building in Japan standing at 300 meters situated on top of Kintetsu Abenobashi Station, just across JR Tennoji Station. While popular attractions in Osaka (e.g. Osaka Castle and Dotonbori) are quite far from here, Abeno Harukas where Kintetsu Department Store, the largest department store in Osaka is located, is situated here, as well as the Tsutenkaku Tower  and Shinsekai District, the old-school entertainment district.

TENNOJI AREA BUDGET HOTELS:

  HOTEL CHUO OASIS

Nearest subway/train station: Dobutsuen-mae Station (Metro)

1.If coming from Kansai Airport, take the Nankai-Kuko Line Airport Express to Nankai-Namba and get off at Tengachaya Station (train). 39 minutes.

2.Walk to Tengachaya Station (metro/subway) and take the Sakaisuji Line (Brown Line) to Tenjimbashisuji-6-chome Station.

3.Get off at Dobutsuen-mae Station and walk to hotel (use Google Maps). Fare: ¥1,610

Travel Tip: During peak season, when prices of hotels spike at the more popular Osaka area such as Umeda and Namba, you can find relatively cheaper hotels at Tennoji Station. Anyway, don’t fret, because if you want to reach the popular Osaka attractions, Tennoji is connected by subway and trains (JR and Kintetsu Line) to Namba, Umeda, and Shin-Osaka, so you can easily reach them.  Plus, there’s a direct limousine bus from Tennoji station to Kansai Airport!

4.SHIN-OSAKA STATION AREA. If you plan to explore other cities in Japan, like Tokyo, Hiroshima, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, this is a convenient base, since this is the hub of the shinkansen trains. The area is sprinkled with hotels and restaurants. During my most recent trip to Osaka, I stayed here and found some pretty affordable and decent hotel, just walking distance from the station even during the peak season in spring!

Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Osaka during peak season like spring and autumn, most likely hotel rates in Namba and Umeda will spike, but, you can still find affordable and reasonably-priced hotel near Shin-Osaka Station.

IMPORTANT: Whatever area you choose as your base, I highly recommend choosing a hotel near a train or subway station so it will be easier for your to get around Osaka and transfer to other neighboring cities.

OSAKA TRAVEL GUIDE 

Manila to Osaka

There are several airlines flying between Manila and Osaka like Cebu Pacific http://cebupacificair.com , the largest airline in the Philippines.  Cebu Pacific flies between Manila and Osaka five times weekly. Cebu Pacific also flies from Manila to Tokyo (Narita), Nagoya and Fukuoka, as well as from Cebu to Tokyo (Narita). Book its trademark lowest fares now through http://bit.ly/CEBOsakaflights  or (+632) 702 0888.

KANSAI AIRPORT TO OSAKA CITY CENTER

Osaka is served by 2 airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX), the airport for all international flights and some domestic flights, and Itami Airport (Osaka Airport) – the airport for domestic flights.

Kansai Airport has two terminals – Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. International flights land at Terminal 1. So, if you are arriving from the Philippines or other countries, you will most likely end up in Kansai International Airport Terminal 1 , which is about 1 hour away from Osaka city center.

Travel Tip: You can check the train routes, schedules, and fare via Hyperdia.com or Google Maps. I prefer using Hyperdia when planning my itinerary as it is more detailed. You can check my HYPERDIA GUIDE to learn how to use it.

Also, if you will search for routes to and from Kansai Airport, use “Kansai Airport” instead of “Osaka Airport”, which is meant for Itami Airport (domestic flights).

But, when I’m traveling, I prefer using Google Maps because it also gives me the information as to what train/subway to use, platform to go, fare, travel time, and can even tell me where I am already if I turn on my GPS. Because the problem with Hyperdia is, you need to know the station name of your destination or wherever you are coming from. But with Google Maps, you can just input the name of your destination and where you are coming from. It also gives you real time updates, like if the train is delayed or the trip is cancelled due to natural phenomenon or accidents or defective train, etc.

However, there are instances, when Google Maps is giving the longer route or is not pulling up any information. So, you still need to search on Google  “how to get to __” .

NAMBA AREA BY BUS

If your hotel is in Namba Area and Tennoji Area, there are direct limousine buses from Kansai Airport.

If you are staying in Namba Area, you can also get there by bus from Kansai Airport Terminal 1.  You have to make your way to OCAT (Osaka City Air Terminal) in Namba in downtown Osaka.

(Adult) ¥1,050 (PHP 502 – USD 9)

(Child) ¥ 530 (PHP 255 – USD 5 )

Travel time:  Approximately 50 minutes

Departure:  Every 30 minutes

1.At Kansai Airport Arrival Hall, go to the AIRPORT BUS to OCAT counter on the 1 st It’s on your way to Platform 11, where buses to OCAT stops and leaves.

2.Purchase a bus ticket to OCAT at #11. You can purchase at the ticket machine or counter.  If purchasing via a staff at the counter, show your passport.  You can also purchase in advance

Bus ticket to Namba Station, Umeda/Osaka Station, Uehommachi or hotel is in Kyoto):   DISCOUNTED HERE .

Bus ticket to Tennoji Station (Abeno Haruka), Nara, Kobe: DISCOUNTED HERE

3.The ticket machine or the staff will give you the bus ticket (white paper) and the receipt (green paper).

4.Go to Platform 11.

5.Fall in line and wait for the airport bus.

6.Once the airport bus arrives, if you have big bags, you need to put it inside the luggage compartment under the bus. The bus staff will take your bags, tag it and give you a receipt with a number. Make sure it matches the number on the bag tag. Don’t lose your receipt/number because you need to give it to the staff to claim your luggage once you arrive in OCAT.

7.Show your bus ticket to the driver and then board the Airport Bus.

8.Get off at OCAT in Namba. Claim and collect your luggage.

9. Walk or take a taxi to your hotel.

IMPORTANT:   First bus trip from KIX Terminal 1 to OCAT in Namba is 6:25 AM, last trip is 11:55 PM. See the Namba bus time table  HERE .

TENNOJI AREA BY BUS

If you’re staying in Tennoji Area, there’s also a direct bus to Abeno Harukas (Tennoji Station) from Kansai Airport (Terminal 1 and 2).

(Adult) ¥1,200

(Child) ¥ 600

Travel time:  Approximately 70 minutes

1.At Kansai Airport Arrival Hall, go to the AIRPORT BUS to OCAT counter on the 1 st It’s on your way to Platform 7, where buses to Tennoji Station (Abeno Harukas) stops and leaves.

2.Purchase a bus ticket to OCAT at # 7.  You can purchase at the ticket machine or via the counter with a staff. If purchasing via counter, show your passport to the staff.  Or better yet, purchase in advance. DISCOUNTED HERE  

4.Go to Platform 7.

5.Fall in line and wait for the airport bus. Make sure you don’t lose your ticket.

7.Show your bus ticket to the driver and then board the Limousine Bus (Kintetsu or KATE). Make sure you don’t lose your tab for claiming your luggage.

8.Get off at Abeno Harukas (Tennoji Station). Claim and collect your luggage.

IMPORTANT:   First bus trip from KIX Terminal 1 to  in Tennoji Station (Abeno Harukas) is 7:35 AM, last trip is 05:45 PM. See the Namba bus time table   HERE .

The fastest way to get to downtown Osaka from Kansai Airport is by train. You can find the train terminal (Kansai Airport Station) at the 2 nd floor of the building next to the Arrival Hall of Kansai Airport. Take the elevator and use the bridge to get to that building on the other side.

Kansai Airport to Namba Station. If your hotel is located in Namba area, you can take either of these 2 types of trains to Namba Station (Nankai):

*Nankai Airport Express: No need for seat reservation for this train. This is a regular train that is slower and cheaper.

Transit time: 46 minutes

Nankai  Limited Express (Rap:t): This futuristic blue train is faster and more comfortable than the Airport Express. You have the option to reserve seats.

Fare: ¥1,430

Transit time: 38 minutes

If you’ll choose the Nankai Limited Express train, you can book your train ticket via Klook.

RESERVE HERE

Kansai Airport to Umeda Station. If your hotel is in Umeda Station/Osaka Station area, you can do the following:

Option 1 (Direct)

JR Kansai Rapid: You can use your JR Pass.

Fare: ¥1,190 (Free with JR Pass)

Transit time: 75 minutes

1.Take JR Kansai Airport Rapid for Kyobashi

2.Alight at Osaka Station (JR Lines).

3.Walk to Umeda Station for about 5 minutes.

Option 2 (2 Transfers)

If you don’t have a JR Pass, you can take the Nankai Airport Express + Osaka Metro.

Fare:  ¥1,150

Transit time:  60 minutes

1.Take the Nankai Airport Express.

2.Alight at Namba Station (Nankai).

3.Walk for about 8 minutes to Namba Subway (Metro).

4.Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line bound for Shin-Osaka.

5.Alight at Umeda Station.

Kansai Airport to Shin-Osaka Station. From Kansai Airport, you can go directly to Shin-Osaka Station via the Limited Express Haruka.

Option 1(Direct)

Limited Express Haruka

Fare: ¥2,850

Travel time: 51 minutes

Nankai Train + Osaka Metro

Fare: ¥1,200

Travel time: 68 minutes

2.Get off at Namba Station (Nankai).

5.Alight at Shin-Osaka Station.

Taxis in Osaka are clean, reliable, and plentiful. If you want a convenient ride and you have the money to spend, you can take a taxi to your hotel, but it’s quite steep, flag down is ¥650 and Kansai Airport is about 1 hour away from Osaka city center. Taxi drivers in Osaka are usually seniors, so just think of it as a little way of helping in their job. Tipping is NOT common in Osaka and the rest of Japan.

GETTING AROUND OSAKA

To help you in getting around the city, refer to Google Maps or get a tourist Map at Kansai Airport or  at Tourist Information Center in Umeda Station or Namba Station.

So, just to clarify, Osaka could mean Osaka Prefecture (Province) or Osaka City.  This Osaka Travel Guide covers Osaka City where most attractions are concentrated.

Map Legend :

Blue marker – Shin-Osaka Station

Purple marker – Umeda Station

Green marker – Namba Station

Yellow marker – Tennoji Station

Osaka City is composed of several wards, but let’s divide them into the 4 well-known areas to simplify things. Take note that all these areas are connected by subway/metro:

NAMBA AREA: Just 10 minutes away from Umeda by subway (Mido-Suji Line) is Namba. This is where Namba Station is located, the main subway station in Osaka. If you’ll be traveling around Osaka only most of the time, this is a good base. This is where you’ll find Dotonbori  – a photogenic street filled with neon-lights of restaurants, takoyaki stands, etc, and Shinsaibashi-suji that is popular for its market street, locally known as s hotengai . Of the 4 areas I mentioned here, this is the most popular base for first-time tourists traveling to Osaka.

UMEDA (Osaka Station Area/Kita): This is where Umeda Station, the main train station in Osaka is located, making it a convenient base for inter-city travels, like if you’re traveling to Kyoto, Kobe, or Nara. Technically, JR Osaka Station serves JR Lines, while Umeda Station serves private lines such as Hankyu Line and Hanshin Line, but remember they’re both in Umeda area. This area is dappled with department stores.

TENNOJI AREA: This is Osaka’s 3 rd major downtown hub. While popular attractions in Osaka (e.g. Osaka Castle and Dotonbori) are quite far from here, Abeno Harukas where  Kintetsu Department Store, the largest department store in Osaka is located, is situated here, as well as the Tsutenkaku Tower  and Shinsekai District, the old-school entertainment district. Anyway, if you want to reach the popular Osaka attractions, Tennoji is connected by subway and trains (JR and Kintetsu Line) to Namba, Umeda, and Shin-Osaka.  It also has direct access to Kansai Airport.

SHIN-OSAKA AREA. This is where Shin-Osaka Station is located. It’s a good base if you will be exploring other cities in Japan, like Hiroshima, Tokyo, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, since it is the hub of the shinkansen trains. There’s really not much to do here, but there’s a wealth of hotels and restaurants sprinkled around the area. I used it as my base during my recent solo trip in Osaka as I was traveling to Fukuoka by shinkansen.

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of changing trains, finding the right station to stop, buying the right Pass or train ticket, you can explore Osaka by bus. It’s an ideal way to explore Osaka especially if you are traveling with seniors or kids. The Osaka Wonder Loop Bus is a hop-on hop off bus that stops at 14 destinations in Osaka, including Osaka Castle Park, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi, Namba Parks, JR Osaka Station (Umeda), and more. The bus comes with an English-speaking guide and a free Wi-Fi. Do ask for a map to see where the bus stops are located.

BY SUBWAY/TRAIN

A fast and easy way to get around Osaka is by subway (metro) and trains since this megapolis is linked by a convenient train system. However, Osaka’s train system can look complicated for first timers. But it need not be if you prepare and understand how and where to ride the trains or metro. For train schedules, fare and routes, check out Hperdia.com or Google.

ALSO READ: HOW TO RIDE JAPAN TRAINS + FINDING THE TRAIN SCHEDULES

As I mentioned above, to simplify this Osaka City Travel Guide, we will divide the city to 4 popular areas, where the main train and subway stations are located:

Tennoji Area: Around Abeno Harukas (Tennoji Station)

Namba Area: around Namba Nankai Station and Namba Subway/Metro

Umeda Area: around Umeda Station (Hankyu and Hanshin Lines) and Osaka Station (JR Lines)

Shin-Osaka: around Shin-Osaka Station

Travel Tip: Osaka trains and subways are convenient to use, but if you’ll be moving around a lot, the fares can pile up and eat up your budget. To save on transportation cost, best to purchase a Pass. But because there are several Passes available, it can be confusing which Pass to get. To help you decide, I’ll discuss each pass below, but first, take note of the following:

Kansai: This is the region composed of the prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Hiroshima,  Hyogo (Kobe), Shiga, and Wakayama.

Osaka: This could mean Osaka Prefecture (province) or Osaka City (the capital).

JR Lines: JR means Japan Railways, they operate several train systems in Japan. For Kansai Region, they own JR West.

Non-JR Lines: Private lines that include Nankai, Kintetsu, Keihan Railway, Hankyu/Hanshin Railway.

Metro: Osaka’s subways are not operated by JR Lines but they are connected to them.

KANSAI PASSES: WHAT PASS TO USE IN OSAKA?

There’s a lot of tourist passes in Osaka, which can get overwhelming. It really depends on your itinerary, but to help you decided which one to use, here’s a list of Osaka passes and when to use it.

1.ICOCA Card

This is not actually a pass but a rechargeable card for subways and trains, pretty much like Hong Kong’s Octopus Card or Manila’s Beep Card. Unlike the Pass, this is NOT unlimited, but it’s a stored value card that you can use to pass through the subway gates to avoid the hassle of buying tickets every time you ride the metro/subway.  You can also use this at convenience stores and other establishments.

When to purchase: If you only have 1 day or 2 days in Osaka and you won’t be moving around a lot, you can use the ICOCA Card.

Where to purchase: RESERVE HERE

You can also purchase at ticket vending machines in major JR Line Stations.

ALSO READ: JAPAN IC CARDS: WHICH ONE TO USE?

2.OSAKA AMAZING PASS (Osaka Only) *Recommended

This is a cost-efficient pass if you plan on exploring Osaka. Osaka Pass entitles you to unlimited subway, and bus rides within Osaka City. You can choose 1 Day or 2 Day Osaka Amazing Pass  for extra flexibility. The 2 Day Pass must be used in consecutive days. What’s good about this pass is, you’ll gain entry to 30 Osaka tourist attractions, including:

Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Legoland Discovery Center Osaka

Osaka Science Museum

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel

Osaka Wonder Cruise

Depending on where you want to pick it up, you can book it in advance below:

Kansai Airport/Namba Station/OCAT pick up: RESERVE HERE

You can even book a combo ticket below:

Osaka Amazing Pass + Universal Studios Osaka 1 Day Ticket: RESERVE HERE

Destination Covered: Osaka only

Trains Covered: unlimited use of subway/metro, trams/streetcar, and bus in Osaka. Free and discounted admission to some Osaka attractions.

Validity: 2-3 NON-CONSECUTIVE days

Airport Train: Not covered.

When to purchase: If you will be exploring Osaka only in 1 – 2 days and you plan to visit the above tourist destinations, you can get the Osaka Amazing Pass to save on admission fees and metro rides.

You can also combine this pass with other passes. For example, if aside from exploring Osaka in 1 or 2 days, your itinerary also includes a visit to Kyoto, Nara or Kobe, you can purchase Osaka Amazing Pass (for exploring Osaka) + JR West Pass or Kansai Thru Pass (for exploring other major cities in Kansai like Kyoto, Nara, Kobe.etc).

3.KANSAI THRU PASS (Kansai Region) *Recommended

The Kansai Thru Pass offers unlimited non-JR train and bus rides around Kansai Region for 2 or 3 days non-consecutive, so it’s pretty flexible. Meaning, you can use this to travel in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and other major cities in Kansai, but JR Lines aren’t covered. This pass also allows you to travel from Kansai Airport and Osaka or Kyoto on the Nankai Train (The Limited Express Rap:t requires additional fee).

Destination Covered: Kansai Region (Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, Wakayama and Koyasan)

Trains Covered: Non-JR Lines

Airport Train: Yes. Kansai Thru Pass can be used from Kansai Airport Station on the Nankai Train after arriving at Kansai International Airport (The Express Rapi:t requires additional fee).

When to purchase: If traveling to Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and Himeji Castle.  If you’ll be staying in Osaka or Kyoto, and you’ll be exploring other cities in Kansai like Kobe, Nara, Wakayama, and Koyosan, and your itinerary requires you to use non-JR line trains in non-consecutive days, then the Kansai Thru Pass is for you. For example, you want to see Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion District, Arashiyama, and Himeji Castle. For more details on where you can use this, check HERE  

4.JR WEST KANSAI PASS (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe)

The JR West Kansai Pass is a regional pass for JR Lines, should not be confused with the Whole Japan Rail Pass. This pass offers unlimited bus and train rides for local JR-West trains and Rapid services in major cities in Kansai Region like Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe. You can also use this pass for train rides to and from Kansai Airport via Kansai-Airport Express Haruka. You can choose a 1, 2,3, or 4 Day JR West Pass. This pass is exclusive for foreign nationals traveling as tourists in Japan.

When to purchase: If you’ll be exploring Osaka and other major cities in Kansai like Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe and your itinerary requires you to take local JR West trains most of the time, then the JR West Pass is for you.

1 Day Pass: RESERVE HERE

2 day pass: reserve here, 3 day pass: reserve here, 4 day pass: reserve here.

How to use the JR West Kansai Pass:

1.Book a ticket in advance. Click the links above.

2.Print or download the mobile voucher that you’ll get in your e-mail once your booking is complete.

3.Present your printed or mobile voucher along with your passport in exchange of your physical JR Pass. You can redeem it in Kansai Airport or at OCAT (Osaka City Air Terminal) in Namba Station.

Redemption Location:

Osaka Kansai International Airport Terminal 1

• Location: HIS counter 1 st Floor, next to the Northern Exit in the Arrival Hall
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM -10:00 PM

Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT) at JR Namba Station:

• Location: Japan Holiday Travel 1 st Floor OCAT Tourist Information Center
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM -6:30 PM
• Contact: +818040968552

4.On the first day that you’ll be using the JR West Kansai Pass, approach the staff at the gate or counter of any train station to have your JR Pass stamped with the final date that you can use your JR West Kansai Pass. Remember that you have to use the pass CONSECUTIVE days.

5.For the succeeding days that you’ll be using the pass, just show it to the staff at the gate of the JR Station.

IMPORTANT: You don’t have to use your pass right away once you get it. It’s up to you so long as you use it before the expiration date. And since the JR West Kansai Pass must be used consecutive days, make sure to plan when to use. For example, on your arrival date you claimed your JR Pass physical voucher but you won’t explore Osaka yet because your tour will start the next day, you don’t have to use the pass. You can use it the next day or the day after, but once you start using it, you will have to you use it the succeeding days after that because of the consecutive days policy.

5.Kintetsu Rail Pass Plus (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Nagoya)

KINTETSU RAILPASS:  RESERVE HERE

I used the Kintetsu Rail Pass Plus pass recently since itinerary includes Mie (Ise-Shima and Nabano no Sato in Mie). You can read our itinerary below.

ALSO READ: KANSAI ITINERARY (USING KINTETSU RAIL PASS PLUS)

Important: You still have to purchase a Limited Express ticket when boarding the Limited Express trains that will guarantee you a seat on the train even if you have a Kintetsu Rail Pass/Plus already. Otherwise, just use the local train.

6. HANKYU PASS (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe)

For unlimited train travel in and around Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe using the Hankyu train lines. You can pick from 1 day or 2 day pass.

HANKYU PASS: RESERVE HERE

When to purchase: If your itinerary includes Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.

7.HANSHIN PASS (Osaka + Kobe)

This pass will enable you to get unlimited rides along the Hanshin Electric Railways for 1 whole day.

HANSHIN PASS: RESERVE HERE  

When to Purchase: If you’re going to Osaka and plan to see some of famous attractions including Universal Studios Japan, Kobe Seaside Park, Hanshin Koshien Stadium, and Umeda Sky Building, then it is best to avail of this Hanshin One Day Tourist Pass. You can combine this pass with Osaka Amazing Pass.

You only need this pass if you will be traveling to other prefectures and cities outside Kansai. For example, you will be heading to Tokyo, Fukuoka, Nagano, Hiroshima, etc.

JR PASS: RESERVE HERE

When to purchase: If traveling in different prefectures in Japan.

9.COMBINED PASSES 

As I mentioned above, you can also use a combination of the abovementioned passes. For example, you can purchase the Osaka Amazing Pass for traveling in Osaka in 1 or 2 Days, then use either JR West Pass (consecutive days/JR Lines) or Kansai Thru Pass (non-consecutive days/non-JR Lines) when exploring other cities in Kansai like Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, etc.

BY OSAKA TOUR PACKAGE

Some tourists prefer joining hassle-free, organized tours, and thankfully, Klook also offers that.

1.Arashiyama + Nara Day Tour from Osaka

This tour will take you to Arashiyama, Todai-ji, and Nara Park. The tour includes an English speaking staff. Depending on what you purchase, you can choose from bus fare only,  to a tour with buffet lunch with temple admission fee.

2.Kyoto Temples and Shrines Day Tour from Osaka

This tour includes a visit to Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama.

OSAKA TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

1.universal studios japan (usj).

One of Osaka’s most-visited attractions is Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and it’s easy to understand why.  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with its flagship attraction Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a crowd-drawer. You can see here the impressive Hogwarts castle recreation.  Don’t miss the butter beer at Hogsmeade and the nearby Hogswart Express Photo Op.  Catch the Universal Re-Boom party that features Universal Studios Japan Character such as the Minions and Hello Kitty, among others. For adrenaline junkies, try the Flying Dinosaur, it’s so much fun but not as scary as it looks! Since The Amazing Adventures of Spider Man bagged the first World’s Best Dark Ride award for 7 consecutive years by Today’s Magazine, do ride it! It’s an amazing and immersive experience.

Entrance Fee:

1 Day Pass: (Adult) ¥7,400  (Child 4-11 y.o) ¥5,100 (Senior) ¥6,204

2 Day Pass: (Adult) ¥14,700 (Child 4-11 y.o) ¥10,000

  Universal Studios Japan Tickets: RESERVE HERE

Open Hours: Depending on the day and month, it typically opens from 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM and closes at 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM.

Access: 5 minute walk from JR Universal City Station

Fare: ¥180 (Covered by JR West Pass and JR Pass)

Travel time: Approximately 30 mins

HOW TO GET TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN

2.OSAKA CASTLE

Castles are symbols of power, and although they are believed to have originated in Europe, you can find equally impressive castles in Japan. Osaka Castle is one of the country’s most beautiful castles, it is a prototypical Japanese castle, featuring many elements associated with feudal Japanese castle architecture.  It is said to have played a key part in uniting Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama era. Osaka Castle is flocked by tourists during spring because it is fringed by 600 cherry trees.

Entrance Fee: ¥600 – ₱277 ($5, SGD 7, MYR 22)

Pass: Osaka Castle Museum, Osaka Castle Nishinomura Garden and Osaka Castle’s Yagura Turrets are FREE with Osaka Amazing Pass

Open Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry: 4:30 PM), closed  on Dec  28 – Jan 1

Access: 15 minute walk from Tanimachi 4 chome subway station Exit 9, or 16 minute walk from Osakajokoen Station.

Train Fare:  ¥230 – ₱106 ($2, SGD 3, MYR 8)

Pass: Subway/Metro is covered by ICOCA Card, Osaka Amazing Pass and Kansai Thru Pass, while JR Line is covered by JR West Pass, JR Pass and ICOCA Card)

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Illusion Museum, Peace (Osaka International Peace Center), Osaka Museum of History, Entrepreneurial Museum of Challenge and Innovation, Osaka-jo- Gozabune Boat.  (FREE with Osaka Amazing Pass)

HOW TO GET TO OSAKA CASTLE:

3. DOTONBORI

Osaka is dubbed as the “Nation’s Kitchen”, the culinary capital of Japan, so yes, do not go home without trying its local dishes.  Some of the traditional food includes takoyaki (octopus bits inside fried dumplings), okonomiyaki (fried cabbage cakes that lookes like omelette), kushikatsu (skewers with different deep fried food such as meat, shrimp, cheese and vegetables) and battera (a block type sushi with mackerel).

If you really want to experience the food culture in Osaka, head to Dotonburi just right across Shinshaibashi.  This place is oozing with restaurants as well illuminated signboards. You know you are in Dotonburi when you see the iconic Glico Man.  This giant billboard was originally installed near Ebusu-bashi Bridge in 1935.  It’s a symbol for Ezaki Glico, a confectionary based in Osaka known for their caramel candy and Pocky pretzel snacks.  Average costs of meals in Osaka is JPY 800-1,500 (PHP 373 – PHP 699 / USD 7.7 – USD 14.39)

Things to do in Dotonbori:

Tombori River Cruise: RESERVE HERE (FREE with Osaka Amazing Pass)

Access: short walk from Namba Station (Metro) Exit 14

4. SHINSAIBASHI SHOPPING STREET

Osaka is a shopping haven, whether you are looking for upscale designer stores or   discount retail shops, you will find it here.  Umeda in the North and Namba in the south are two of its largest shopping districts. And in between is Shinsaibashi Suji , walking distance from Namba station, the most popular and one of the oldest shopping destinations in Osaka.  Be prepared though because the moment you walk into Shinsaibashi-Dotonburi area, just a 5 minute walk from Namba Station, you will meet a massive swirl of humanity.  Nearby you can also find Amerikamura (American Village), dubbed as the mecca of youth fashion.  This is where you’ll find small, inexpensive boutiques standing shoulder to shoulder selling mostly imported and hipster clothes targeting the youth.

Access: 5-minute walk fro Shinsaibashi Station

5. ABENO HARUKAS

Abeno Harukas is the tallest building in Japan, housing the largest department store in Japan – Kintetsu Department Store.  There’s also a museum on the 16 th floor that houses the garden, but perhaps the building’s highlight is the Harukas 300, the observation deck located on Abeno Harukas top 3 floors – (58 th -6oth floors) that offers 360 degree views of Osaka.  It can be accessed via the elevator on the 16 th floor.

Open Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily (Last entry: 9:30 PM)

Entrance Fee: (Adult) ¥1,500 (Junior High/Highschool) ¥1,200, (child) ¥700

Pass: Discounted for Kintetsu Rail Pass (Adult) ¥1,350 (Junior High/Highschool) ¥1,080, (child) ¥630

Abeno Haruka Ticket: RESERVE HERE

Access: On top of Kintetsu Osaka-Abenobashi Station

6. UMEDA BUILDING

One of the tallest skyscrapers in Osaka is  Umeda Sky Building , a two 40-story building connected by a bridge and two escalators (said to be the highest in the world). The building is accessible via Umeda Station. On top of it is the Floating Deck, an observation deck which offers a scenic view of Osaka skyline.

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily

Entrance Fee (Kuchu Teien Observatory):  (Adults) ¥1,500, (Child 4-12 y.o) ¥ 700 (FREE until 6:00 PM for Osaka Amazing Pass).

13-minute walk from Umeda Station (Metro/Subway Midosuji Line (Red Line) and Hankyu Railway) – Covered by Osaka Amazing Pass, Kansai Thru Pass,

13-minute walk from Higashi-Umeda Station (Metro/Subway Tanimachi Line (Purple Line)

13-minute walk from Nishi-Umeda Station (Metro/Subway Yotsubashi Line (Blue Line)

13-minute walk from JR Osaka Station (JR Line)

Fare: ¥230 (Subway and non-JR Lines covered by Osaka Amazing Pass, and Kansai Thru Pass)

HOW TO GET TO UMEDA SKY BUILDING:

7. TEMPOZAN HARBOR VILLAGE  

Tempozan Harbor Village is a leisure bay destination peppered with restaurant, shops, Osaka sightseeing cruise ships, the Legoland Discovery center, etc. You’ll never really run out of things to do here. You can even ride the Help Five Ferris wheel that is beautifully-lit at night.

Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel:

Open Hours: ¥800 (FREE for Osaka Amazing Pass)

11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (shops, amusement, and fast-food restuarants),

11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (restaurants)

Access: 10-minute walk from Osakako Station, Exit 1 on the Subway Chuo Line

Pass: Osaka Amazing Pass, Kansai Thru Pass, ICOCA Card

Travel Time: About 33 min

HOW TO GET TO TEMPOZAN HARBOR VILLAGE, STA.MARIA CRUISE AND LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER:

8. LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER

If you don’t know it yet, there’s a Legoland Discovery Center in Osaka. Located at the Tempozan Harbor Village.  Your kids will enjoy this place filled with millions of famous toy bricks and packed with activities such as brick-making class, a 4D movie, brick factory tour, lase rides, etc.  Book online in advance as it is cheaper than the walk-in price.

Entrance Fee : (Walk-in) ¥2,300 (online) ¥1,600

Legoland Ticket: RESERVE HERE  

Open Hours:

Weekdays: 10:00 AM -7:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)

Weekends & public holidays: 10:00 AM -8:00 PM (last entry 6:00 PM)

Access: 5-minute walk from Osakako Station (Metro/Subway)

Fare: ¥280  (Covered by ICOCA card, Osaka Amazing Pass, and Kansai Thru Pass)

HOW TO GET TO LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER: See directions under Tempozan Harbor Village.

9. STA.MARIA CRUISE

While you are at Tempozan Harbor Village, don’t miss the Santa Maria Sightseeing Cruise ship that sails around the popular tourist attractions in Osaka bay area. It’s a massive recreation of the boat that Columbus used to reach America.  You can experience the Sta. Maria day cruise or twilight cruise for about 45 minutes.

Cruise Rates:

Day Cruise: (Adults) ¥1,600 (Child) ¥800

Twilight Cruise: (Adults) ¥2,100 (Child) ¥1,050

*FREE for Osaka Amazing Pass

Access: 10-minute walk from Osakako Station, Exit 1 on the Subway Chuo Line. For the detailed directions, see the tables above under Tempozan Harbor Village.

  WHERE TO EAT IN OSAKA

We had a really tasty marutoku ramen (JPY 700) on our first night in Osaka at Morutoku near Fukushima Station.  Also try eating at teppanyaki (grilling on a plate) restaurants where you eat at the counter while the chef prepares the food in front of you and serves it immediately.

We also got to try the famous Omi Beef , one of the best beef in Japan, along with Kobe Beef and Matsusaka Beef, at Yasu-shi in Shiga prefecture, about 30 minutes away from Kyoto.  It’s really a must-try when in Japan!  We dined at a restaurant called  Jiku Kappo Sara where they have a special set of Omi Beef Steak that comes with Omi beef steak, sushi, sashimi, tempura, Omi-rice and miso soup for JPY 4, 600 (PHP 2,143 /USD 44) or  you can order their middle set meals for JPY 3,900 (PH 1,817) without the sushi and sashimi.

OSAKA SIDE TRIPS

Kyoto is highly recommended because of its wealth of attractions.   To help you plan your Kyoto trip, you can read my Kyoto blog here: KYOTO TOP TOURIST SPOTS .  But if you are pressed for time, you can do a day trip from Osaka or an afternoon tour. You can book cheap tours to Kyoto from Osaka : HERE.

ALSO READ:  KYOTO TRAVEL GUIDE (BUDGET + ITINERARY)

Nara, Japan known for its friendly deer is another favorite side trip from Osaka. I’ll be posting my Nara Japan Travel Guide soon, but if you have limited time, you can also book a Nara Day Tour : HERE , which includes a visit to Nara’s celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites temples.

ALSO READ: NARA TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary)

Where to eat in osaka.

Since Osaka is dubbed as the culinary capital of Japan, trying the food here is a must. And the best place to do just that is at Dotonburi , a mere 5 minute walk from Namba Station.  The main road and small streets here are fringed with all types of eateries.

Crowned by the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, the Shinsekai district is another haven for foodies, created after the World War II (1912), modeled after New York and Paris.  Here you’ll find some of the best kushikatsu shops in Osaka.

Osaka Station and Grand Front Osaka has a wealth of restaurants to choose from, but if you find it too clean and intimidating, head to Kitashinchi district, the entertainment capital of Osaka, just 10 minutes by foot south of Osaka Station.

If you’re looking for a ramen place, I highly recommend Marutoku near Fukushima Station, order marutoku ramen.

Average costs of meals in Osaka is JPY 800-1,500 (PHP 373 – PHP 699 / USD 7.7 – USD 14.39). If you are on a tight budget, you can try the bento and sushi meals sold at local supermarkets, visit at night around 7:00 PM or when they are about to close because they are tagged with discounts for as low as 50% off!  Meals would usually cost about JPY 279 – JPY 799 (PHP 130 – PHP 373 / USD 2.7- USD 7.7).  Otherwise, you can settle for microwaveable meals at convenience stores like Lawson and Family Mart. But then again, you are in Japan, so I highly recommend you splurge on food once in a while.

OSAKA ITINERARY (5 Days 4 Nights)  (Osaka-Kyoto-Nara)

Here’s a suggested Osaka itinerary with budget that includes  a trip to Kyoto and Nara.

*Hotel, drinks, souvenirs, shopping expenses, airfare, and NAIA terminal fee are not included.

Entrance fees, subways/trains and bus rides, and food are included in the calculation.

PASSES: OSAKA AMAZING PASS (1 day) + KANSAI THRU PASS (3 Days)

This entails that

Day 1 – No Pass

Day 2 –  Osaka Amazing Pass

Day 3 –   No Pass

Day 4 –  Kansai Thru Pass. Kyoto

Day 5 – Kansai Thru Pass. Nara

Important: For the itinerary below, if you combine the Hankyu 1 Day Pass (¥700) of  Osaka Metro fare, then on Day 5 you buy individual tickets worth ¥1,350 + the Nankai Kansai Airport  Line, it’s still cheaper for about ¥115 than using the Kansai Thru Pass on Day 4-5. But that’s a small amount compared to the hassle of buying individual tickets for the lines not covered by the Hankyu 1 Day Pass (e.g. Keihan Line + Kintetsu Line + Osaka Metro).  Yes, Kintetsu and Keihan have their own pass, but it’ll be more expensive if you use them with the Hankyu and Osaka Unlimited Travel Pass for the itinerary below. Therefore, I still opted to use the Kansai Thru Pass for this itinerary.

For the Subway Lines, I used the colors of the actual Metro line so you can easily find them at the Metro Station.

Red Line – Midosuji Line

Purple Line – Tanimachi Line

Green Line – Chuo Line

Pink Line -Sennichimae Line

Blue Line – Yotsubashi Line

Brown Line – Sakaisuji Line

Also, best to take note of the Station Number, so you can easily understand it when the staff announces the next station stop.  The station number stop is different for each line, for example, for Tanimachi-4-chome – if riding the Green Line, station number is C18, and T23 in Purple Line. The station numbers are usually listed inside the subway, usually above the subway doors.

So, without further ado, here’s a recommended Osaka itinerary for first timers in Kansai.

For the total expenses with Pass above, you need to add the cost of Osaka Amazing Pass (1 Day) + Kansai Thru Pass (2 Days). Total amount is:

Total Expenses with Pass = ¥27,510 – ₱13,986 ($249.24, €223.36, SGD 342.89,MYR 1,042, AUD 363.35)

Savings: ¥2,735 – ₱1,308 ($21.55, €24.64, sgd 35.11,myr 107, aud 35.65).

Universal Studios Japan is quite hefty and will eat up your budget on Day 2, if you want, you can skip it and replace it with the following itinerary (Legoland Discovery Center), which is also ideal for children. But if you will follow this, I recommend purchasing the Osaka Amazing 2 Day Pass to use for Day 2 and Day 3 so it will cover the attractions below

ALSO READ: 

Kyoto travel guide,   sapporo travel guide, kyoto tourist spots and how to get there, osaka-kyoto-nara itinerary with budget , sapporo itinerary, shirakawa-go from osaka, osaka to tottori, conan town travel guide (itinerary + budget), hakuba ski travel guide, fukuoka travel guide (itinerary + budget), related posts.

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37 comments.

Good tips and information shared. Do you recommend other places to go in Osaka besides Osaka Castle and USJ?

What about Kyoto and Nara? I dont see the itinerary here.

still writing it. posting soon

Hi! May I ask when did you visit Osaka? Thanks

hi! im following your posts and i find this helpful. i also plan to travel alone but still quite doubtful since im not really ‘gala’ but im in for adventures. did you really travel alone? how’s the condition of capsule hotels for a single female? i.e security, privacy

Is anybody here wants to visit Osaka, Japan on March 10-15, 2017? Kindly let me know. I need to have accompany to visit Osaka since I am only alone to travel there. I need some help guys. 🙁

Hi, this blog is very informative. But I would like to ask in your expenses you only paid p2,549 in Jr west rail pass. Tried to check it online, It’s for 200usd.

Depends on the # of days, there’s 1, 2, 3, 4 and even 5 day pass.

Does klook.com legite site.? I would like to buy usj ticket online.

Hi, your blog is very helpful and informative, I am a bit confused which train pass will i get. I will be travelling from KIX airport to Kyoto (Day 1) , Kyoto-Nara (DAY 2 – 4), Kyoto-Osaka (Day 5 – 7), Osaka back to Airport. Which rain pass I am going to avail? Hope you can help me with this. Thanks so much.

JR West Kansai Pass 🙂

What an incrediable blog. Appreciate your detail explanation. I am travelling to Osaka in Hot July, from osaka i plan to go kyoto then Nara. What would be your commendation number of stay in each city?

Really can’t wait for 5 more years to travel in Japan. Thanks for the infos! For sure, this will help me a lot. But I have a question, I heard that some Japanese don’t speak english, Is that true?

Hi there, You do have useful info posted here.. This will help me where, when and how to go Osaka. 🙂 Keep it up! Good luck on your next travel..

Welcome Jaybee. Safe travels! 🙂

First of, a very good read – brief and informative. A question though, I will be travelling on Sunday to Osaka (just OSAKA) where a friend will meet me however I did not purchase any JR Pass nor any train ticket card, instead she instructed me to get the SUICA card at the airport. I’m a bit anxious since you’ve mentioned that ticket rides for foreigners must be purchased outside Japan. I appreciate your response. Thank you.

I meant for JR Pass only. You can purchase the SUICA Card there. 🙂

Your blog is detailed & informative. Its very helpful for first timers like me, thank you. We plan to avail the suggested seniors citizens, nara, kyoto & arashiyama day tour…… from the hotel. We are only staying for 3 days in osaka & 1 day is for nara, kyoto arashiyama day tour. Which train pass shall we buy… Kansai thru pass, JR west pass or ICOCA card. Do we still need the pass if we have the day tour from a travel agent… for the kyoto, nara tour. Keep up your helpful blog….

If you have a tour na po with a travel agent, no need for the JR Pass. You can use ICOCA or Kansai Thru Pass depending on where your hotel is and how many times you’ll use the train/subway each day. If you will be using the subway/train several times a day, you may still need the Kansai Thru Pass.

Hi. i’m just a little bit confused with the train transfer. We will be staying near shibuya station. From that station can I use my jr pass(if ever I purchase one) in going to osaka(one-way)?

Hi. Im bit confused regarding JR west kansai rail pass, kansai thru pass and icoca ic card. What are the differences and which one is better cause it’s like (correct me if I’m wrong) they are all same? Thank you.

If you’re just touring Osaka, Kyoto and Nara, go for the ICOCA Card or Kansai Thru Pass. I’ll post a blog about this soon.

I had originally only planned to spent a day in Osaka but this seriously makes me reconsider that decision! Osaka sounds like such an amazing place with lots of things to do 🙂 thanks for the tips!

Hi, your blog is very informative. Thank you for the tips you have shared. We will be going to OSAKA in August (first timers). Our travel will be around OSAKA then to KYOTO and NARRA. Can we purchase this online so we can have them before we leave? We do not intend to stay in a hotel in Kyoto but will just do a day-tour. This would mean travelling to Kyoto by train. This we will do in 2-days. Which train would you recommend to take to Kyoto and more budget friendly? Thank you.

Kindly read here: https://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/hyperdia/

This is so helpful and amazing blog post ever. Thanks you for helping me preparing for my first trip in Japan.

Welcome. I just updated the blog. It’s more detailed now. 🙂

Hi! For a 1st-timer tourist in Japan, which do your recommend I visit first? Osaka or Tokyo? Would appreciate your opinion. Thanks!

Osaka, Tokyo’s train system is more complex

Hello, is it worth it to get the JR pass if our routes will be Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo? We’re arriving in Osaka and we’ll exit by Tokyo. Thank you.

Yes, because the train fare to Tokyo is expensive.

Hi, your blog is very informative. Me & two of my friends is going to Osaka this November. We are also planning to visit Tokyo and we already purchased our plane tickets which we will exit in Tokyo, Narita Airport from Osaka. Do you also have a travel guide + budget itinerary for shall we say 3 days in Tokyo? That would be so helpful! Thank you 🙂

you can check it here https://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/tokyo-itinerary/

Hello! I’m a follower of your blog. (: Kindly check if the translation for “nihongo ga wakarimasen” should be “I do not understand Japanese” instead of “I do not understand English”. Thank you. (:

Oh wow! Thanks for pointing that out. It should be “I don’t understand Japanese”.

HI, FOR JR WEST 4 DAY PASS, I CAN START USING IT WHENEVER I LIKE? OR MUST START USING ON THE REDEMPTION OF PHYSICAL PASS?

You can start using it after redemption, like a couple of days or week after. There’s an expiration date though, so check that out.

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23 Incredible Things to Do in Osaka, Japan (2023)

Split by the Yoda River, Osaka is a city of cuisine and canals. The river’s tributaries split off toward the Osaka Bay, creating a city of over a thousand bridges. Its geographical position also led to Osaka become Japan’s food capital, but more on that later.

Osaka is Japan’s third biggest city and its beginnings are in line with the start of the Japanese Empire. Overtime it’s grown into a modern metropolis with world-class architecture, beautiful gardens and an endless line of things to do.

Travelers will have an enthralling time making their way between the downtown core and various neighborhoods. All of which are brimming with inviting culture, delicious delicacies, shopping and plenty of fascinating tales.

Roam Dotonbori at Night

In a city of nine million people, you’ll never find a shortage of atmospheric destinations in Osaka. But it’s at night, in Dotonbori, that you can roam the city’s most vibrant district. It’s where the neon lights shine through town like New York’s Times Square, an illuminated place that can be seen long before you arrive.

Join an abundance of locals for an endless array of shopping and a delectable foodie scene. The district’s main street is flanked by boutique stores and international brands with the full selection of authentic local cuisine waiting to be picked.

A highlight of Dotonbori is the Don Quijote, a discount store that quite literally sells everything. Eat up beforehand as you’ll want to spend plenty of time wandering the never ending aisles.

For a break from the organized chaos, wander off the main street to Hozen-ji Yokocho. You’ll find a quiet and charming alley with a quaint temple laden with bright lanterns.

Live out Your Wildest Mario Kart Dreams

An attraction that has exploded over the last decade allows you to drive around Osaka on a go-kart dressed up as your favorite Mario Kart character. Beginning near the Namba Station, your guide will give you a brief demonstration and make sure everyone is safely strapped up. Before letting you pick between their wide range of costumes that also include famous Anime characters.

Travelers will have their choice of several packages that include different sights and attractions. Popular destinations include the Osaka Tower and the aforementioned shopping district of Dotonbori. As you drive between each destination, you will reach speeds of up to 37 miles per hour (60kmph). 

The ingenious idea is one of the best things to do In Osaka. It’s an amazing and unique way to see the city. But travelers should come ready with their international driver’s license in order to embark on this adventure.

Embark on a Food Tour

Known as the Nation’s Kitchen, Osaka is the true foodie capital of Japan. It quickly becomes clear why as you roam the streets. You’ll find delicious and sometimes unrecognizable smells of local treats stemming equally from street-side vendors and fancy restaurants. It’s easy to see why the city’s motto is kuidadore: eat till you drop.

The culinary tradition began in the 17 th century in a heyday that lasted for almost 300 years. From 1603 to 1868, Kyoto was the Japanese capital. But its more remote location made the nearby Osaka that center of the nation’s trade. Osaka also has every type of farming terrain. So while the city had to feed much of the country, it got first choice of local ingredients which began a rich tradition. 

Osaka’s famous food scene now awaits your arrival. English translation isn’t that common here, so it helps to begin your culinary adventure alongside an expert guide. On this night time food tour , try the best authentic eats under the bright lights of Japan’s third biggest city.

Visit Osaka Castle

The Osaka Castle was built in 1586, during a period where decade-long construction on such elaborate designs was par for course. This ornate castle took a mere three years due to the fame and prestige of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a warrior and politician.

The famous historical figure required almost the entirety of his military commanders to provide the stones for its construction. Upon completion, the Osaka Castle was the largest of its kind in Japan. Its biggest individual stone stands at 20 feet (6m) tall and 48 feet (14.5m) wide. Unfortunately, the breathtaking castle you see today is not the original. Hideyoshi’s army was defeated three decades after construction, leading to the destruction of the castle. It was ruined a second time, before finding a semblance of peace after renovations in the 1930s. 

Visitors will quickly fall in love with the soaring central tower, home to a fascinating museum and excellent views of Osaka. Be sure to also visit the Hokoku Shrine, which commemorates Hideyoshi.

Stand at the top of the Umeda Sky Building

The Osaka Castle may offer splendid views of the city from the top of the 5-story tower, but the Umeda Sky Building is a whole different beast. At almost 570 feet (170m) above the ground, the Sky Building has a continuous presence wherever you go in Osaka. It’s an easily recognized sight, thanks to its multiple bridges that connect the two towers. You can enjoy one of the best views in Osaka from the comfort of the 39 th floor. Featuring the main bridge atop the twin buildings, you can witness jaw-dropping vistas of the city laid out before you like a map.

But you’ll also find yourself within the Floating Garden Observatory, one of the several floating gardens in Japan. The hanging garden complements the views with many colorful plants. Before heading off on another adventure, stop by a more standard garden at the base of the building that leads to an underground market. 

Spend a day at Legoland

One of the best things to do in Osaka with kids, and for anyone who’s young at heart, is to spend a day at Legoland. In Tempozan Market Place, Legoland is open every day until as late as 8pm.

If you played with Lego growing up, then this attraction promises to be an enchanting trip down memory lane. Here, you’ll find an endless array of tables waiting for you to create your very best buildings, cars, trains and much, much more. Not to mention the Master Builder Academy and the Lego Racer: Build and Test.

But your time at Legoland isn’t purely restricted to creation. You’ll find an extensive selection of rides and even a 4D cinema, transferring a day of discovery into a day at the theme park. Some of the most thrilling experiences include the Great Lego Race and the Kingdom Quest.

Explore the National Museum of Art

Within a unique underground location, Osaka’s National Museum of Art will quickly captivate art lovers and culture hounds. Just out of downtown, the museum is on a small island called Nakanoshima that sits on both the Dojima and Tosabori rivers.

Visitors can explore a wide range of work that has continued to expand since the museum opened in the late 1970s. You’ll find sections dedicated to the promotion of local artists, including the renowned luminaries of Miyako Ishiuchi and Ryuji Miyamoto. While there is also a large area that celebrates international art, including paintings by Paul Cezanne, who helped ring in the post-Impressionist era.

Complementing the permanent art is a wide range of historic artifacts. These include statues, along with a string of beguiling temporary exhibits. To take your art experience further, add in a trip to the Municipal Museum of Fine Art to your Osaka itinerary.

Sign Up for a Cooking Class

There’s something special about our sense of taste and smell. Memories can fade and photos can lose their edge, but a whiff of a scent or taste of a spice can bring us right back to the moment we experienced them for the first time.

A great way to have your travels live on forever is to take a cooking class. Learn the tricks of the trade to recreate your favorite international eats so that your adventures never fade. It also helps that Japanese cuisine is downright delicious and a worthy addition to your cooking repertoire.

Besides jogging memories, learning local cuisine peels back the curtain on the city’s culture. You can gain a perspective of Osaka and Japan as a whole that may have otherwise fallen by the wayside.

In this local cooking class , join a small group in discovering the culinary traditions in one of Japan’s best foodie cities. Learn to make takoyaki, miso soup and okonomiyaki, before sitting down to enjoy your delectable creations. 

Visit the Shitenno-Ji Temple

In the middle of the 6th century, Japan’s first state-built Buddhist temple was created. Shitenno-Ji Temple has survived almost 1400 years of history and multiple renovations, but was destroyed during World War II. It was later faithfully recreated using traditional designs. The beautiful site now showcases every bit of its long history, which you can experience on a fascinating guided tour.

While you can explore the temple grounds on your own, your guide will provide invaluable insight as you witness the Central Gate, the 5-story ornate pagoda, and the Kon-do Hall. All of which are aligned from north to south, in traditional Buddhist design. Inside the Kon-Do Hall (Golden Pavillion) you’ll find embellished statues and paintings.

The temple also harbors a collection of amazing artifacts including the Senmen Hokekyo Sassi, which depicts Hokkeyo Sutra and has been official labelled as a national treasure. After your tour, spend time in the temple’s manicured gardens.

Wander Through the Osaka Bay Area

Osaka is a historic port town and owes much of its standing as a modern metropolis to its position on the Osaka Bay. This part of town lights up at night and features the towering Ferris wheel, one of the largest in Asia, along with an expansive entertainment complex and plenty of attractions.

You can reach the Osaka Bay Area via the Chuo subway. In 20 minutes, you’ll find yourself a world away from the hectic inner city while looking out over the Inland Sea. Begin at the Tempozan Marketplace, where you’ll find plenty of delicious street food and restaurants, perfect for using the knowledge gained on the food tour.

From there, journey 370 feet (112m) above the ground on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel for impeccable nighttime views of the bay, Kobe and Osaka. Taking a page straight of Santa Monica, USA, the Bay Area also has its own amusement park hovering over the water. Take your evening up a notch with an experience at Universal Studios!

Enjoy a Sun-Soaked Picnic

Speaking of getting away from the action, another popular option is a day at Tennoji Park. The park is the largest green space in Osaka and is an easy way to leave the noise behind, to spend time with friends and family or just your own thoughts. 

There is ample space to lay down the picnic rug and have lunch with your traveling crew. Likewise, you’ll find plenty of shady trees and cherry blossoms to read or relax underneath. But you should allocate plenty of time to explore the gorgeous park. The many trails bringing you to distinct gardens such as Keitakuen, home to a lake, traditional pavilion and bridges leading to vibrant flowers.

Within the park you’ll also find the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Tennoji Zoo home to over 1,000 animals, including koalas, rhinos and elephants.

Head to Shinsekai 

While districts like Dotonbori and the Bay Area have kept pace with modern glitz and glamour, the charming Shinsekai is a glimpse into the old Osaka. It’s rather ironic then that Shinsekai translates to New World. 

This was because the neighborhood was developed rather recently at the turn of the 20 th century. The early days of the district began with earnest. After 5 million people came to the area during the National Industrial Exposition, improvements were quickly made and were full of creativity.

Walking around Shinsekai may bring travelers an eerie sense of familiarity. That’s because the southern part of town was designed to recreate the one and only Coney Island. While the Tsutenkaku Tower, to the north of town, was developed with the Eiffel Tower in mind. However, upon the Second World War, development quickly halted, leaving Shinsekai paused in time.

Arrive at dusk to see the neon light sweep through the old parlors, and restaurants serving traditional kushikatsu, a skewered deep-fried meat or vegetable.

Relax at Spa World

While in Shinshekai, treat yourself to an invigorating experience at Spa World. Featuring a mix of traditional and European-style spas, the enormous complex is open 24 hours a day. Visitors will also have a choice of a range of pools and saunas for a thorough experience that even has the option of staying overnight.

Spa World allows you to experience hot springs from around the world, including a traditional Onsen soaking tub. These spas are located outside, where you can bathe in the hot water while enjoying the cool breeze and wondrous views.

For the full experience, you can complement your spa with a number of treatments, such as massages. While families can make use of the various water attractions, including slides.

If one afternoon just wasn’t enough, Spa World’s full pass allows you to spend the night in its luxury hotel. Visitors should keep in mind that the complex has strict rules regarding tattoos, with no visible designs allowed.

Watch Sumo Wrestling  

Although major sumo tournaments occur infrequently throughout the year, travelers who arrive in Osaka during March must experience the Sumo Spring Grand Tournament. Sumo wrestling is a 2000-year-old tradition where heavyweight wrestlers battle to eliminate their opponents by pushing them outside the circle or onto the ground.

The Sumo Spring Grand Tournament is held in the Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium. The tournament lasts for two weeks with the matches taking place from 8am to 6pm daily. Osake Prefectural Gymnasium is also known as EDION Arena and is within the Namba district just a short walk from the subway station. The first part of each day features a range of up-and-coming sumo wrestlers. With the best wrestlers taking to the arena after 3pm when the higher division fights occur. 

Tickets go on sale a month before the start of the event and major fights will sell out quick. So get in early in order to grab a top seat.

Take the Kids to ATC Asobi Mare

Along with the Legoland Discovery Centre and the Osaka Bay Area, one of the best things to do in Osaka with kids is the ATC Asobi Mare. The attraction is an indoor park designed for families and kids who can explore on a whim and let their creativity run wild.

Thanks to its indoor location, parents won’t have to worry about any lingering bad weather and can simply let the young ones run amok over the many playgrounds on offer. But this isn’t just a place to enjoy the slides and the ball pit. The many games and toys will help stoke curiosity and provide a fun but educational experience.

One popular play area is the Jumbo Blocks. The huge blocks cover a whole range of different sizes, allowing visitors to create whatever the heart tells them, from giant castes to towering skyscrapers. Another hit is Nariki Street, an imaginary shopping boulevard full of shops where kids can “buy” princess dresses and various career-oriented costumes.

See the Tenmangu Shrine

The original Tenmangu Shrine dates back to the 10 th century and, like a lot of the temples and historic buildings in Osaka, has been rebuilt several times. The shrine commemorates the deity of education and scholarship, and offers a place of tranquility close to the inner city.

Wandering around the shrine will showcase some of Osaka’s local traditions and their memorable hospitality. You’ll find members of the shrine dressed in period costumes and more than willing to guide you around.

Every year in July, the Tenmangu Shrine hosts one of the largest national festivals in Japan. Shortly following the construction of the shrine, the Tenmangu Festival began. Every year for 1,000 years, people have come from all over to celebrate the principle deity of Sugawara Michizane. 

On the second and final day of the festival, drummers lead a procession from the shrine into Osaka before the night ends with an elaborate fireworks display. 

Visit the Nearby City of Hiroshima

Under two hours west of Osaka via train, Hiroshima makes for an incredible day trip. Much of your time here will probably be focused on the tragic events in World War Two, but there is a lot of local cuisine and culture to enjoy along the way.

Hiroshima was the site for the world’s first atomic bomb. The bomb brought to an end an entire city that had grown to be a major industrial and military hub. It was a base of command during WWII, controlling the entire defense of south Japan. The bomb wiped out 90% of Hiroshima, killing 80,000 residents.

Soon after, Hiroshima was designated as a city of peace and has grown an international reputation as a diplomatic city and a place to discuss social issues and develop inter-nation relationships. To learn more about the dark events, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The latter is one of the few buildings left standing.

But before returning to Osaka, try some local okonomiyaki, which differs greatly from Osaka. Or visit Hiroshima Castle or Miyajima Island, home to mountain views and wild deer.

Explore the Markets

Osaka has several exceptional markets, which should come as no surprise thanks to its standing as a foodie haven. If you’re feeling adventurous, then ditch the restaurants and make your way to Kuromon Ichiba Market. The large market has a captivating atmosphere with a seemingly endless number of vendors selling the full range of fresh produce and local delicacies.

Kuromon Ichiba is all about the fresh food. With Osaka’s proximity to the Inland Sea, a huge part of that is fresh fish. A smell that floats through the market. While you may think that you will need to leave the market do the cooking yourself, you’ll be delighted to learn that most vendors will do it all right in front of you.

Whether it is fish, noodles or takoyaki (fried octopus), pick what you like the most and soon have yourself a freshly prepared dinner.

Enjoy the Osaka Science Museum

In the Bay Area, the Osaka Science Museum is one of the most insightful attractions in the city. Perfect for young and old, time will fly as you wander between a series of hands-on and educational exhibits.The interactive displays will guide visitors through the various eras of science, the development of electricity and even provide a beginner’s look into the world of chemistry. A highlight of the Osaka Science Museum is Japan’s first planetarium. In the underground section of the museum, the planetarium allows visitors to participate in a range of scientific experiments. With the lack of English translation, however, you’ll have to rely on the visual cues, providing your experiment with a necessary layer of improvisation. The planetarium also has sprawling dome screens showcasing outer space, with incredible up-close visuals of the stars we see every night.

The Osaka Science Museum is under 10 minutes from two major subway stations, making it a straightforward journey from downtown.

Celebrate Everyone’s Favorite Cheap Meal

Whether you’re a teenager yet to discover the wonders of the culinary world, or a hungover university student with barely a penny to their name, we have all, at one stage, fallen in love with the humble ramen noodles.

In order to pay our respects and celebrate a dish that has got us all through hard times, we must make the pilgrimage to the Instant Ramen Museum. Of course, if you have no idea what I’m talking about, then we invite you to learn about the wonders of this simple delicacy.

It’s one of the most unique things to do in Osaka and the best news? It’s free. Inside you’ll find an array of displays showcasing the history of Cup Noodles, the various international iterations and even a Cup Noodle cinema.

For the ramen aficionados among us, the highlight will no doubt be the Cup Noodles Factory. Here, you can customize your own package. While in the Chicken Ramen Factory, you’ll make chicken ramen with your own hands.

Explore Nagai Botanical Garden

Spanning an enormous 24 hectares, the Nagai Botanical Garden is the largest in Osaka. Its many paths while guide you through elaborate gardens home to bright blooming flowers and over 1,000 types of trees. 

Thanks to the seasonal variety, each visit to the botanical garden won’t be like the last. While some are no longer blooming, other areas are enlivened with a burst of fresh color. Spring and summer bring the most amount of flowers. But the Christmas rose, one of the few that blooms during the winter, is a sight to behold.

The trees that surround the park are from all over the world. They come in various shapes and sizes, attracting many birds to flutter between them. But for sheer size, it’s hard to miss the garden’s giant sequoias. Within the park, you’ll also find the Museum of Natural History and Yanmar Stadium home to Cerezo Osaka.

Watch a J-League match

Sports fans traveling to Osaka may have the opportunity to indulge in one of Japan’s biggest football rivalries. Over the last three decades, Cerezo Osaka and Gamba Osaka have developed a heated rivalry which each one battling for bragging rights and to be the city’s best club.

Traditionally, Cerezo Osaka represents the inner-city, or what they call the real Osaka. While Gamba represents the surrounding suburbs. Either way, the matches are always heated with some of the biggest crowds of the year.

If you’ve arrived in Osaka outside of the derby, then you can still get along to a local game. The J-League season runs from February to the beginning of December, with each team having 17 home games.

Unleash Your Inner Wizard at Universal Studios Japan

Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan or not, it’s hard not to have a magical time at Universal Studios. One of just four around the world, the Osaka version is similar to the one found in Orlando, Florida. Just with its own local twist.

The large part of the park is dedicated to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here, you can indulge in the mythical world, with rides dedicated to the iconic novels, along with replica versions of Hogwarts and Diagon Alley, where you can toast to your travels over a pint of butter beer.

But there is a whole lot more to this theme park, with many sections dedicated to different famous movie franchises. Jump on the hair-raising “Hollywood Dream: The Ride”, a roller coaster based on Spiderman that even travels backwards. Other highlights include the kid-friendly Universal Wonderland, and an entire section dedicated to Jurassic Park.

But as we are in Japan, you’ll find plenty of unique aspects to this theme park experience. You’ll stumble upon various theme sections based on Japanese movies, TV and games. These include the One Piece Premier Show and Monster, which can be a wonderful introduction to local pop culture.

Related Articles on Japan 🇯🇵 What’s it Like to Travel in Japan? 🏯 How to Spend Two Weeks in Japan: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 💴 The Cost of Travel in Japan: A 2023 Budget Breakdown 🍣 15 Weird and Wonderful Things to Eat in Japan 😎 Hipster Harajuku: The Coolest Neighbourhood in Tokyo 🦔 Should You Go to a Hedgehog Cafe? My Experience in Japan 🐒 Why Seeing the Snow Monkeys in Japan Sucked

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Lauren, your life story is inspiring. And your “23 incredible Things to do in Osaka” is very good and has given us plenty of food for thought in our upcoming trip to Osaka and Kyoto. Thank you and much appreciate.

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12 Best Things to Do in Osaka 2023

Travel guide for Osaka: Newly opening attractions in 2023

Osaka, known as “the kitchen of Japan” for its great cuisine, is one of the most famous tourist destinations together with Tokyo and Kyoto. The capital city of Western Japan has countless things to do, from ancient buildings such as castles and shrines to modern skyscrapers, delicious local food, and a great nightlife under neon lights, one of the world’s greatest amusement park,s and much more!

In addition to the activities that are always available, there are some that are exclusive to 2023. If you are planning a trip to Osaka in 2023, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been there before, check out this list! Exclusive time-limited events, hotels, and attractions that have recently opened, this Osaka Bucket List 2023 includes our picks of the best things to do in Osaka 2023!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

1. New Attractions at Universal Studio Japan

Universal Studios Japan is a must go if you are visiting Osaka. It’s a perfect activity for all type of travelers: families, couples, friends or solo travel, USJ offers different type of entertainment for all the public. The park is divided in 10 different zones with themes of popular movies and characters such as the recent hot area Nintendo World or one of the most popular areas, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Visitors can also enjoy attractions and shows inspired by Jurassic Park, Spiderman, Minions and more! 

In addition to the permanent themed zones, here have been also lots of collaborations with popular anime and manga lately such as the popular serie ONE PIECE . During Spring 2023 the park is holding Universal Cool Japan 2023, a special time-limited event featuring some of the most popular and hottest animation and games today. 

Enjoy special shows and attractions inspired by the world of SPY x FAMILY, Detective Conan/Case Closed and Monster Hunter, only available in Spring 2023 in Universal Studios Japan!

▶Best Attractions of Universal Cool Japan 2023

▶Universal Studios Japan No Limit! Parade 2023 with Super Mario & Pokemon

▶Best Rides at Universal Studio Japan

2. Spy x Family Exhibition

No doubt 2023 is the Spy x Family year! After several collaborations events, finally a special exhibition focusing on the hot anime serie Spy x Family will be held in Japan in 2023 at 4 cities, including Osaka. In addition to illustrations and even a recreation of the Forges family living room, the exhibition includes a special mission where visitors can participate and get one of the famous Stellas! Special goods will be also available.

3. New Hotels Opening in 2023

With the massive return of tourism to Japan, new projects are seeing the light of day. For example, several new hotels have already been built in major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. Although when traveling one spends a great deal of time out visiting, choosing a good hotel is important for a good rest and a better experience.  Here are some of the new hotels available in Osaka in 2023.

OMO Kansai Airport Hotel

OMO Kansai Airport opened on March 20th,  2023, is the first airport hotel by the group Hoshino Resort’s. Located one minute on foot from Rinku Town Station, the hotel is just one stop from Kansai Airport Station.

According to the promoters, OMO Kansai Airport not only offer convenient functions as an airport hotel, but also an exciting and fulfilling time both before you go on your trip and after you return. In the facilities guest can find two comfortable waiting areas, indoor bath and a half-open-air bath, sauna, restaurant, etc.

<< Book now your stay at OMO Kansai Airport at the best price! >>

Cuvée J2 Hotel Osaka

Cuvée J2 Hotel OSAKA is the first “Champagne Hotel” in Japan, produced by Kazuto Yamamoto, a pioneer in the promotion of Champagne culture in Japan. All 15 rooms are equipped with a half-open-air bath. Each room will be designed in collaboration with 11 champagne houses (called Maison in French), including Taittinger and Jackson, and will feature a message from each house and a gift of a representative champagne.

The hotel also has a sushi and champagne restaurant, AWA SUSHI, which is open to non-guests. Customers can enjoy the fresh marriage of sushi and Champagne, which mutually enhance each other’s flavor.

voco Osaka Hotel

IHG Hotels & Resorts will open the first hotel in Japan under its premium hotel brand, voco Osaka Central on Tuesday, May 30th, 2023.

a social-style restaurant that supports a casual and relaxing stay, as if you were invited into your own home. voco Osaka Central will feature 191 guest rooms, a restaurant and café, a fitness gym, and meeting rooms. voco Osaka Central is committed to sustainability, and has adopted the following initiatives: the elimination of miniature bottles for bath amenities, the use of recycled materials, and the use of recycled products. The hotel is designed to reduce its environmental impact by eliminating miniature bottles, using bedding made from recycled materials, water-saving showerheads, wooden card keys, and bamboo tableware.

<< Reserve a room at voco Osaka now! >>

Check out more New Hotels Opening in Japan in 2023 in the following article!

▶Best New Hotels Opening in Japan 2023

Onsen (hot spring) is definitely a top activity in Japan. It’s said that the onsen culture in Japan started before the 7th century, and nowadays they are over 3,000 hot spring spots in the country! The most popular onsen spots are in places far away from tourist cities as Kyushu, Hokkaido, Gunma or Sendai.

But it’s possible to enjoy the Japanese hot spring culture in Osaka too! Natural Hotsprings Hana-Nami-No-Yu is a new facility that opened in the heart of Osaka’s financial district, with the water transported from Ikoma Nishimura Radon Hotsprings. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of travel.

A friendly reminder: in Japanese hot springs you must enter completely naked, and it’s divided by gender. 

<< Book now your stay at Onyado Nono Osakayodoyabashi Hot Spring at the best price now! >>

5. TeamLab Botanical Garden in Osaka

The museums and exhibitions of the art group teamLab have become one of the best things to do in Japan. If you don’t know yet, teamLab is an ultra technologist art group formed by several specialist such as artists, programmers, engineers, CG animator, mathematicians and architects. The result is unique and incredibly beautiful works of art that offer a whole new experience.

In July 2022 teamLab opened a new permanent museum in Osaka, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka. Located in Nagai Park, one of the largest urban parks in Osaka, teamLab Botanical Garden is a new and different concept. While the other teamLab museums are in closed spaces created for this purpose, the Botanical Garden Osaka is an open-air park! In this occasion, teamLab have created a beautiful art space around a botanical garden divided in 6 a total of areas, using the nature of the place and turning it into art without harming it.

<< Click HERE to Book teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Now!! >>

Check out more about TeamLab Botanical Garden in the following article!

▶TeamLab Botanical Garden in Osaka

Information

6. Unforgettable Events of 2023

By 2023 Osaka City will host different types of unique events for a limited time! Here you have some of the most interesting ones:

NAKED CITY LIGHT FANTASIA -Osaka Future Tourism-

NAKED, INC., the well-known creative company, is holding an interactive digital art exhibition for a limited time in Osaka City. NAKED CITY LIGHT FANTASIA -Osaka Future Tourism- is held at the Abeno Harukas Observation Deck “Harukas 300” from January 13, 2023 (Friday) to May 28, 2023 (Sunday).

Visitors can enjoy the sensation of floating above the night scape through a fusion of the night scape and projection mapping in a future travel experience at the tallest skyscraper complex in Japan, 300 meters above ground.

Official Website:   https://naked.co.jp/works/17500/

Osaka Comic Con 2023

Comic fans have an appointment this 2023 with the Osaka Comic Con, an event dedicated not only to the world of comics but also include manga, animation, games, and movies. Comic Con was originated in 1970 as the Golden State Comic Book Convention and. as of today is held every year in early July in San Diego, United States, attracting over 130,000 visitors. Furthermore, Comic Con is also in France, the U.K., Taiwan and other countries, making it a hot topic all over the world.

The Osaka Comic Con will take place the weekend of April 5-7, 2023 and will feature guests such as Michael Rooker, Misha Collins, Mads Mikkelsen, Daniel Logan and more. 

Official Website: https://tokyocomiccon.jp/

Detective Conan Cafe 2023

Detective Conan: Submarine of Black Iron is the 26th movie of Detective Conan, one of the most famous Japanese manga and anime series of all time. The movie was released in April 14th and to celebrate it the popular Detective Conan Cafe is back in 2023.

The cafe offers food, afternoon tea sets, sweets and special merchandise inspired by characters such as Conan Edogawa, Ai Haibara, Toru Amuro and Shuichi Akai.

Check out more about Detective Conan Cafe in the following article!

▶Detective Conan Cafe in Japan 2023

Abeno venue (13 April to 25 June 2023)

Umeda venue (6 April to 17 July 2023)

7. Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Kadoma

A new shopping mall complex, Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Kadoma, opened in Kadoma on April 17, 2023. The mall features 153 stores including fashion, accessories, and lifestyle stores.

The centerpiece of the first floor is the Kadoma Umaimon-gai, a major food zone with a market officially recognized by Kuromon Market, the big market located in Nihonbashi know as Osaka’s kitchen. In addition food retailers, restaurants, supermarkets, fast food shops, and cafes are also available.

On the fourth floor visitors can relax at the rooftop plaza, Sky Plaza, where various events will be held. The plaza is equipped with several pieces of playground equipment, including a large slide and bouldering for kids, as well as a variety of plantings and benches, making it the perfect place to take a break from shopping.

8. NAMCO BANDAI Cross Store Osaka Umeda

NAMCO BANDAI Amusement Inc. have opened its first interactive retail facility in the Kansai area, NAMCO BANDAI Cross Store Osaka Umeda, on the 8th and 9th floors of HEP FIVE.

At the BANDAI NAMCO Cross Store customers can enjoy the characters, products, events, food and beverages developed by the BANDAI NAMCO Group companies, providing a new entertainment experience where customers can see, touch and. experience. The official shop, which offers a wide range of character products, is open to the public.

9. Osaka Sauna DESSE

Osaka Sauna DESSE opened on April 12, 2023  with eight saunas, each with a different concept, that provides the highest level of satisfaction to each and every customer according to gender, taste, physical condition, and mood at the time.

Osaka Sauna DESSE aims to create the best experience possible, putting a lot of effort into the design and attention to detail incorporating Osaka’s regional characteristics and history.

Official Website: https://desse.osaka/

10. Lumi Sky Walk (Umeda Sky Building)

The “Lumi Sky Walk” at Umeda Sky Building’s Floating Garden Observatory has been renewed for its 30th anniversary, creating an immersive starry sky experience.

Opened on October 11, this glittering promenade uses fine luminous stones to mimic a galaxy, offering visitors a unique sensation of floating in space. Perched 170 meters high, the walkway boasts a 360-degree open-air view, merging the city’s night lights with a star-like setting. It’s a perfect blend of urban and cosmic views, inviting travelers for a one-of-a-kind stargazing adventure in the heart of the city.

<< Click HERE to Book Umeda Sky Building & Kuchu Teien Observatory Ticket Now!! >>

Official Website: https://www.skybldg.co.jp/en/

11. TAMLO at HEP FIVE

Osaka’s HEP FIVE, known for its red Ferris wheel, will introduce TAMLO on September 15, 2023. This unique dining section located on the 7th floor of HEP FIVE comprises five zones: Soft, Cool, Unique, Attractive, and Lovely, each with a distinct theme.

Hosting 14 eateries, highlights include national debuts like “YANKEE DONUTS,” “PINK WOO WAFFLE,” and “coucou churros.” Diners can also indulge in the perfected hamburgers at “Hamburg Kitchen Maruburg” or the “wabi-sabi” fusion dishes of “Tsuki no Michi.” Additionally, “TAMLAB” offers rotating specialty shops, starting with the Kyoto-favorite “KUMONOCHA,” renowned for matcha lattes.

Official Website: https://hepfive.jp/tamlo

12. Side Trips to Hidden Gems

Although as the second largest city in Japan, Osaka offers thousands of activities available, there are also many other interesting attractions outside the city! Use your stay in Osaka to discover hidden gems that are at one day trip, and enjoy a different experience.

Some of the most common destinations are Kyoto , Nara or Hiroshima and Miyajima . But if you want something really different from the typical, I recommend Lake Biwa in Shiga prefecture . Lake Biwa is the largest lake in Japan and you can enjoy the nature as well as shrines and temples. Another recommendation is Wakayama Castle in Wakayama prefecture.

Check out the following articles for more hidden gems in Osaka!

▶Best Day Trips from Osaka

▶Best Cities to Visit from Osaka

Coming in 2024…!

If you can’t come to Japan in 2023 and are planning a trip in 2024, don’t worry if you miss out on any of these activities, as there are many new activities planned for 2024! A new Donkey Kong area at Universal Studios Japan and new facilities such as KITTE Osaka that will feature an hotel, urban spa and theatre; or  Grand Green Osaka, a new space full of different facilities, including a beautiful garden where you can relax on weekends!

Find everything you need for your trip to Japan at Klook! Tickets, train passes, activities, hotels and more!

▶Best Things to Do in Tokyo 2023

▶Best Things to Do in Kyoto 2023

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Excited!? If you want to enjoy the best your trip to Osaka, check out these articles too!

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From Barcelona to Tokyo. Coffee  & Adventure lover 🌏☕️  

I started to like Japan because of the anime, music and doramas, but after my first trip to the country I found what I love the most: traveling around, the culture and history. I have travelled a lot in Japan, but I still have many places to discover that I want to share with you 🙋🏼‍♀️   Let’s discover Japan together!

Also, as a foreigner living in Japan for over 6 years I understand what kind of things are difficult when you move here and I want to help other people in the same situation that I have in the past.

• Things to Do

The Ultimate 3-Day OSAKA Itinerary | Japan Travel Guide (2024)

Traveling in Osaka, Japan is absolute nostalgia. It feels like you’ve stepped back in time (in a good way). It’s easy to get around, and every area has its own unique charm with a dynamic food and drinking culture, and famously outgoing people – you’ll find out when you get there. Enjoy all the top things to do with this complete Osaka travel guide and get ready to take notes as we help you discover the best things to do in Osaka .

Osaka Travel Guide

Shitennoji temple.

This foreign beauty is said to be one of the oldest temples in Japan, dating back to 593 A.D. Unfortunately, it has been burned down and rebuilt a few times, but that doesn’t stop it from reflecting its original 6th-century design.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time! And make sure to check out the five-story Pagoda and the main hall – both impressive feats of architecture. Keep climbing up to see the view from above! Despite its age, Shitennoji Temple is still a must-see in Osaka. Don’t miss it, and check out more on our Japan travel guide !

Coming up next is the modern, lively district of Shinsekai. This area may translate to “new world,” but it’s like taking a step back in time. The lack of redevelopment has frozen the district in the early 20th century, creating a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.

Explore the streets, and you’ll see massive signboards lighting up eateries, old Japanese storefronts, and arcades. This is one place we’ve seen the most gachapon machines in Osaka. Watch out for mysterious black gachapon machines, though. They’re definitely not kid-friendly, so keep those little ones away!

And don’t forget to try the famous kushikatsu: deep-fried skewers that Osaka is known for. But the real cherry on top is the Tutankaku Tower, offering a stunning view of all the excitement from above. Shinsekai might be a blast from the past, but it’s definitely worth a visit.

Harukas 300

If you’re planning your 3-day Osaka itinerary and wondering where to get the best view of this dazzling city, we’ve got your answer: Harukas 300. This place is a game-changer, trust us! When you first make your way up there, you won’t believe your eyes! You’ll be on a helipad, 300 meters high in the sky, with panoramic views of Osaka. It’s spectacular!

A few hundred feet above the ground you can take in the whole cityscape as far as the eye can see. Sip cocktails while watching the sunset behind the bustling skyline of Osaka. There’s no better way to end your day here than at Harukas 300.

Stunning views and fresh air. Oh, and don’t forget to make a pit stop at the men’s restroom. Yeah, I said it – the restroom. Not that you need to go, but it’s got an amazing view that you won’t want to miss. It’s unexpected, sure, but that’s what makes it even more awesome. So make sure to check out Harukas 300 on your 3 days in Osaka because this is one experience you won’t want to pass up!

TeamLAB Botanical Garden

Our next stop is at TeamLAB Botanical Garden ! This magical digital experience, located in Nagai Park just a short train ride south of central Osaka, is the perfect way to end your day. And trust me, you won’t want to rush through this outdoor exhibit.

Make sure the weather is favorable for your visit, grab a snack, and prepare to be amazed. The team behind TeamLAB has truly outdone themselves yet again, combining technology and nature for an unforgettable experience.

GET TICKETS HERE

Plus, being surrounded by a beautiful Botanical Garden adds a whole new level of relaxation and ambiance. Personally, I could spend hours here, or maybe even fall asleep on one of the benches (shh, don’t tell anyone). So, add the TeamLAB Botanical Garden to your Japan travel guide and get ready for some seriously cool vibes.

Universal Studios Japan

Okay, let’s talk about Universal Studios Japan. First of all, it’s home to the world’s first Super Nintendo World, which is pretty dang cool if you’re a fan like us. And let me tell you, once you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve been teleported into a Mario game.

I’m talking green pipes, mini-games, and even real-life blocks you can interact with. And if you’re really looking to make the most of it, you gotta grab yourself one of those power-up bands.

Trust me, it’s the only way to infiltrate Bowser Jr’s Lair and take on all the experiences Nintendo World has to offer. But be warned, this place is super popular and has limited capacity, so plan accordingly. Yes, it’s popular and yes, it has limited capacity, but don’t despair – just check their website for entry requirements before you show up. Trust us, you don’t want to get all excited for a day of wizardry and minion mayhem only to find out you can’t go in because the park is at max capacity.

And if you do make it in, be prepared for some wetness on the Jurassic Park ride. As for the rest of the park, there’s plenty of fun to be had in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, and beyond.

For more ideas on what to do during your Japan travel, check out our Japan travel guide here .

Have you considered using Osaka as your launchpad for some epic day trips around the Kansai region? While living in Osaka, we found out that we could take a quick day trip to Nara. Within an hour’s reach by local train, you’ve got Eastern Nara, where you can feed free-roaming deer, get your zen on in some stunning temples, and indulge in some seriously tasty food.

So, if you want to make the most of your time in Osaka and explore the surrounding area, make sure to add this day trip to your 3-day Osaka itinerary. I promise you won’t regret it.

Kyoto, oh Kyoto – the city that is all the more worth a visit! With its rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture, Kyoto has something to offer everyone. And the best part? It’s just a short trip from Osaka, where you can see Japan’s most iconic attractions.

If you’re heading there on a weekend, make sure to ride the Kyo-train GARAKU- the only train in the world that has a zen garden. And the cherry on top? It only costs three dollars to ride all the way to Kyoto! Crazy, huh?

Although we’d recommend spending more time in Kyoto, we also understand that not everyone has so much time to spare in Japan. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Check out our 3 day-Kyoto itinerary for more ideas on what to do in Kyoto.

If you’re a foodie, then Kobe beef should definitely be on your Japan bucket list. Hop on over to the beautiful Harbor City of Kobe for some mouthwatering delights. But don’t stop there.

Do you know what’s great about Japan? It’s not just about sushi, anime, and samurais. Japan is home to a lot of other cultures, including a thriving Chinese community. And where better to experience this fusion than in Nankinmachi, Kobe’s Chinatown – which also happens to be Japan’s 2nd largest!

A quick hop from Osaka, this charming enclave is a must-visit on any 3-day Osaka itinerary. Trust me, after you’ve been to Nankinmachi, you’ll understand why it’s such a highlight of any Japan travel guide.

From traditional Chinese medicine shops to stalls selling the cutest souvenirs, this place has got enough to keep you entertained for hours. Plus, the food alone is worth the trip. Think dim sum, roasted chestnuts, bubble tea – okay, we’re drooling now. Just make sure you plan enough time here – you wouldn’t want to rush through the experience.

Where to Stay in Osaka

Osaka is like a perfect mix of traditional Japan with a modern twist.

Osaka may not have the reputation of Kyoto’s ancient temples and shrines, but what it lacks in history, it more than makes up for in delicious food and epic shopping. I mean, who wouldn’t want to devour some piping hot takoyaki (octopus balls) while browsing through stores with quirky Japanese gadgets?

When it comes to where to stay in Osaka for first-timers, you’ve got seven great options. Do you want to be in the hustle and bustle of the city center? Kita and Minami are for you.

Want to have a more traditional experience and all about that relaxed vibe? Then head to the Osaka Castle district.

And if you’re a business traveler or need quick access to the bullet train, Shin-Osaka or Honmachi are perfect. Whatever you choose, just make sure to bring your appetite and some extra yen.

See all Osaka Stays

Osaka Castle

Ah, Osaka Castle. The iconic fortification looks like it came straight out of a movie. We’re not kidding, this place has everything you could want in a castle – a massive moat, towering walls, and even watchtowers. And don’t even get us started on the castle itself, it looks like something out of a storybook. But what really sold us were the gardens and open spaces that surround it. I mean seriously, it’s like stepping into a beautiful tranquil oasis right in the middle of the city.

Regarded as the Beating Heart and Soul of Osaka, Dotonbori boasts an array of unique sights and sounds. You’ll immediately notice the giant restaurant signboards in the shape of octopus, crabs, and dragons which are a hallmark of this bustling neighborhood.

Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank and snap some photos of the stunning cityscape. Then when hunger strikes, make sure to check out some of the local eateries. From street food stands to gourmet restaurants, there’s something for everyone here. Plus, it’s all within walking distance!

Shinsaibashi Shopping District

As the largest shopping district in Osaka, this is a must-stop for all you shopaholics out there. Not only will you find all the major international brands here, but also an array of unique boutiques and specialty stores.

Take your pick from designer apparel, trendy accessories, and souvenirs to take home with you. And don’t forget to pick up some yummy snacks and treats from the food court!

Pokemon Cafe

The Pokemon Cafe is a whimsical eatery that is beloved by locals and tourists alike for its adorable decor, delicious Pokemon-themed food and drinks, and charming atmosphere. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, you’ll even get to witness Pikachu do the cutest little dance while you’re there!

Uncle Rikuro’s Cheesecake

You absolutely must add Rikuro’s Cheesecake to your itinerary. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on this heavenly treat. Sure, there are plenty of other things to do in Osaka, but this fluffy, Japanese cheesecake is truly one-of-a-kind. In fact, you won’t find it in any other city. Make sure to make a stop at Uncle Rikuru’s. We promise, as soon as you take a bite, you’ll be in absolute bliss.

Amerikamura

Amerikamura is a cool popular area for youth culture and is definitely worth adding to your 3-day Osaka itinerary. Situated near the edge of Dothan, Amerikamura has some of the best streetwear stores, super hip cafes, and eateries. As the name suggests, you’ll kind of feel like you’re in America! Whether you’re into fashion, street art or just looking for a unique atmosphere, Amerikamura is a must-visit spot in Osaka.

Zauo Fishing Restaurant

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Osaka, then head to Zauo Fishing Restaurant. Not only do you get to enjoy freshly caught seafood, but you also get to be the one to catch it.

This restaurant has been making waves on social media with its interactive approach to dining. Upon arrival, guests are provided with a fishing rod, a net, and some bait to catch their own dinner. It’s a fun and exciting way to enjoy a meal and add some adventure to your trip.

Plus, your victory is celebrated with great fanfare by the whole restaurant.

Best Time to visit Osaka

Osaka is great to visit year-round, but there are a few factors to consider. The spring months from March to May offer mild temperatures and cherry blossom season, making it a popular time to travel.

Summer can be hot and humid, but that also means you can cool off at the city’s many water parks and beaches.

Fall is a lovely time to visit with crisp weather and colorful leaves. Finally, winter brings fewer crowds and cheaper prices, but you’ll need to bundle up for the chilly temperatures.

With these three days in Osaka mapped out, you’re ready to start your Japan travel adventure! Enjoy exploring and have fun along the way!

And remember, wherever you go, don’t forget to wander.

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The Ultimate 3 Day OSAKA Itinerary | Japan Travel Guide (2023)

Japan’s second most full of life metropolis is dwelling to a number of the nation’s greatest road meals and a number of enjoyable actions and experiences, so seize a pocket book and a pen and we’ll present you the perfect issues to do in Osaka that it’s essential to jot down in your itinerary.

Our 3 day Osaka information will take you to all the iconic points of interest – Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Dotonbori – together with a Universal Studios Japan, and day journey concepts for Nara, Kyoto and Kobe.

Plus, we take you on a tour inside one of many latest digital artwork displays – teamLAB Botanical Garden that’s unique to Osaka.

You gained’t have a lot respiratory room on this itinerary, however what the heck, who wants relaxation and sleep anyhow whenever you’re in Japan?

We hope you’ll love Osaka as a lot as we do and fall in love with the town’s quirkiness and laidback vibe.

**ALL the Osaka points of interest and actions we did on Klook** ➡️ http://bit.ly/3kQzWdU

#OsakaGuide #OsakaItinerary #JapanTravelGuide

——– WATCH ALL OF OUR JAPAN GUIDES:

——– 0:00 Intro 0:25 Shitennoji Temple 1:03 Shinsekai 1:57 Harukas 300 2:53 TeamLAB Botanical Garden 3:42 Universal Studios Japan 5:33 Nara 5:44 Kyoto 6:09 Kobe 6:41 Ninja & Geisha Capsule 7:13 Osaka Castle 7:32 Dotonbori 8:02 Shinsaibashi 8:16 Pokemon Cafe 8:24 Rikuro’s Cheesecake 8:42 Amerikamura 8:56 Zauo Fishing Restaurant 9:33 Outro

——– HANGRY BY NATURE ► TikTok • https://bit.ly/35OJURw ► Blog • http://bit.ly/2OzUNhx ► Instagram • http://bit.ly/3474vij

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Ultimate 3-Day Osaka Itinerary Japan [2023]

Osaka is the third biggest city in Japan, it offers a completely different atmosphere than Tokyo. But to really experience this vast city, you must do your research and use this Osaka itinerary.

As a child, I would frequently visit Osaka. And, as a proud daughter of an Osakan (they are known in Japan for their brash and eccentric mannerisms), I know the city extremely well.

With its mixture of modern funky streets and majestic historic monuments, visiting Osaka is an absolute delight.

And, all the incredible sights of Osaka can be assembled into a perfect 3-day Osaka itinerary!

From trying out Osaka’s delicious cuisine (including Takoyaki and okonomiyaki) to gazing at the adorable turtles at Shitennoji Temple, Osaka is filled with an abundance of extraordinary things to do.

So, I hope this 3-day itinerary helps you as you plan your trip to Osaka!

Photo by Satoshi Hirayama from Pexels

The Best Time to Visit Osaka

First, let’s talk about when you should visit Osaka. And, the answer is, whenever. As the climate in Osaka is temperate, it’s always a good time to visit!

However, my favourite time of year to visit Osaka is definitely the spring (March, April, and May) and the fall (October and November). This is because it’s the best time to admire Japan’s cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, respectively. 

Nevertheless, the summers and winters of Osaka are both lovely times to visit as well. While the summers (June, July, and August) are hot and humid with occasional rains, they still offer great weather. Furthermore, while the winters (December, January, and February) in Osaka are cold, there is rarely any snow, and the days are typically clear and sunny.

Overall, I recommend travelling to Osaka in the spring or fall if possible, but any time is okay!

How to Get to Osaka

There are many ways of getting to Osaka, including:

Plane : The easiest and most obvious way to get to Osaka is by plane. Osaka has two airports: the Osaka International Itami Airport (ITM) and the Kansai International Airport (KIX). Ironically, the Itami airport only services domestic flights. So, you can either fly into Osaka’s Kansai Airport from abroad or fly into the Itami or Kansai airports from within Japan.

Train : If you are traveling in Japan, you can also visit Osaka by train. A popular route is through the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Osaka. However, there are many possible train routes, fast and slow, depending on your point of departure. And remember to look into the Japan Rail Pass  prior to visiting Japan, to save money on transportation!

Highway Bus : If you’re traveling to Osaka from Tokyo, you can also take a highway bus. With both daytime and overnight buses available, the ride typically takes 8 hours.

Car : Finally, you can also travel to Osaka by car. While this option is definitely the most expensive (with the costs of renting a car, paying for gas, getting charged highway tolls, etc. adding up), it can also be a lot of fun!

Photo by Bagus Pangestu from Pexels

How to Get Around Osaka

Now, let’s talk about how to get around Osaka.

First, if you’re entering Osaka by plane, there are a few ways of getting to Osaka’s city centre from the two airports:

The Osaka International Itami Airport (ITM) : If you’re arriving at the Itami Osaka Airport, located 11 km (6.5 miles) from central Osaka, you can get to Osaka by limousine bus, taxi, or the Osaka monorail and train lines. By far, the easiest way to get to Osaka is by the Osaka Airport Limousine bus, which costs ¥650 and takes 30 minutes.

The Kansai International Airport (KIX) : If you’re arriving at the Kansai International Airport, located 37 km (22.5 miles) from central Osaka, you can get to Osaka by the JR Haruka Airport Express train, the Nankai Rapid Airport Express train, a limousine bus, or a taxi. By far, the easiest way to get to Osaka is by train, with the JR Haruka Airport Express being the quickest, but also costing more. However, it is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

Once you’ve arrived at your accommodations in Osaka, there are many ways of getting around.

The easiest and best way to get around Osaka is definitely through the Osaka train and subway lines. However, as Osaka has a very extensive train and subway network (which is convenient for travelling around), it can also be confusing to navigate. I suggest referring to Google Maps, as getting around may require multiple transfers.

One big tip I have for traveling around Osaka (and Japan in general) is to use a prepaid IC Card. While the IC Card used in Osaka is the Icoca Card, there are other IC cards you can use, including the Suica, Pasmo, Kitaca, Toica, Manaca, Sugoca, Nimoca, and Hayakaken cards.  

While the IC cards don’t offer discounts on travel, they make riding Japan’s railways super easy; you just load money onto the card, and tap in and out at each station. Without an IC card, you’ll have to pay for each individual train ticket for every trip you make, which can be super cumbersome. IC cards can be purchased on ticket machines at JR stations.

Finally, there are other ways of travelling around Osaka, however, they tend to be more inconvenient. These include taxis and buses.

Budgeting for Osaka

I would recommend planning for a budget of around ¥9,300/day (around $90 USD/day). So, a three-day trip to Osaka will cost around ¥27,900 ($270 USD). Of course, this depends on your overall spending habits, and how much you’re willing to spend on accommodations, etc.

Moreover, the cost of travelling to Osaka can be as low as ¥6,700/day (around $65 USD/day), which adds up to ¥20,100 ($195 USD) for three days. Check out my article if you want some tips on travelling on a budget !

The Top 10 Things to Do in Osaka

• Tour Osaka Castle . Initially constructed in 1583, it has since acquired its fair share of damages. However, it received massive repairs throughout the 20 th century and is now one of the most popular tourist spots in Osaka. While you can tour the interior, I also recommend walking around the lovely park surrounding Osaka Castle, especially in the spring; it’s one of the best spots to admire Japan’s cherry blossoms!
• Experience the nightlife of Dotonbori . Osaka’s entertainment district, it’s famously known for its extravagant, neon billboards (including the iconic Glico running man sign), a wide variety of bars and taverns, and incredible street food.
• Spend a day at Universal Studios ! A great option for families (I was always ecstatic to visit as a child), it also offers attractions for all age-groups. My favourite rides and attractions include the Harry Potter world, the Jurassic Park ride, and the Jaws boat ride.
• Visit Tsutenkaku Tower . Originally built in 1912 (and rebuilt after World War II), it is known as the Eiffel Tower of Osaka. And, it is situated in Shinsekai, the best place to try out a variety of cheap, Japanese food!
• Admire the turtles at Shitennoji Temple . Founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku Taishi, it is one of the oldest temples in Japan, and the first Buddhist temple to receive national oversight. And it features a small pond filled with adorable turtles!
• Wander around Sumiyoshi Taisha . Built-in the 3 rd century, it is one of the oldest shrines in all of Japan. I recommend walking across the Sorihashi Bridge, which has a uniquely high arch!
• Explore the exhibits at the Osaka Aquarium . One of the best aquariums in Japan, it is the ideal place to spend a rainy afternoon.
• Hike to the base of a waterfall in Minoo Park . An easy hiking route popular among locals, it is a delightful stroll through Osaka’s forests. And it is also one of the best spots to admire Japan’s autumn leaves!
• Feed some deer on a day trip to Nara . Once considered sacred messengers of the gods, the deer are protected to this day. There are several vendors in Nara Park selling deer crackers for ¥200 a bunch (made especially for the deer), so I definitely recommend buying some!
• Take a day trip to Kyoto . An ancient capital of Japan, it is definitely an unmissable stop on your Japan trip. And if you’re wondering what to do in Kyoto, check out my Kyoto itinerary !

You can visit Japan any time of year, but spring is beautiful. Check out some of the best places to visit in Japan during spring .

3-Day Osaka Itinerary

8:00 – After arriving at your hotel and leaving your luggage, enjoy a simple breakfast.

9:30 – Now, head over to Osaka Castle. Spend some time walking around the entire park, admiring the towering castle from multiple angles, before exploring the interior of the ancient castle.

11:30 – Find a nice restaurant, and eat some lunch.

13:00 – Take a train to Minoo Park. Spend a couple of hours completing the Minoo Park hike, admiring the waterfall, streams, and beautiful forests surrounding Osaka.

17:00 – After completing the hike, head to Dotonbori for some dinner. Walk around the numerous restaurants, stores, and attractions, before choosing a restaurant to relax in.

19:00 – Now, enjoy some of Osaka’s nightlife! Spend as much time out as you’d like, bar-hopping and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Osaka at night.

11:00 – After having a slow and relaxing morning, head to Shitennoji temple. Spend some time touring its grounds, and admiring the turtles in its pond.

13:00 – Walk over to Tsutenkaku Tower, visible in the distance from Shitennoji temple. Explore Shinsekai, and choose a cheap spot for lunch.

15:00 – Head over to Sumiyoshi Taisha. Wander around the grounds, read more about its history and significance, and climb over the Sorihashi Bridge!

17:00 – Return to your hotel, and take a small, relaxing break.

19:00 – Head back out for some delicious dinner!

9:00 – After a small breakfast, jump onto a train headed to Nara.

10:00 – Walk over to Nara Park. Buy some deer crackers from a vendor, and start feeding some deer; this is a great time to take some adorable pictures. But be careful, as some of the deer get quite aggressive! (I recommend hiding most of the crackers in your bag, and only taking out a couple at a time).

12:00 – Find a nice restaurant near Nara station for some lunch.

14:00 – Return to Osaka. Get off at Osaka-Umeda Station, and explore the nearby malls and shops for souvenirs.

16:00 – Now head over to America-Mura, near Namba Station, and continue souvenir shopping!

18:00 – Find a nice, final spot for dinner, before continuing onto your next destination (or simply returning to your hotel for the night).

Top Places to Eat in Osaka

While Japan as a whole is celebrated worldwide for its incredible food, Osaka in particular is well-known for its delicious cuisine. Two local dishes you’ll have to try on your trip to Osaka include Takoyaki (balls of octopus mixed with batter) and Okonomiyaki (a savoury, cabbage pancake).

Additionally, these are some of the best restaurants in Osaka:

• For Takoyaki : While you can find some delicious Takoyaki from street vendors (you can find many in the Dotonbori area), one restaurant I particularly recommend is Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae.
• For Okonomiyaki : I recommend visiting Okonomiyaki Chitose. This is definitely the best place to try Okonomiyaki, with great cooks, friendly and welcoming staff, delicious ingredients, and a very affordable menu!
• For Sushi : I recommend checking out a conveyer belt sushi restaurant; it’s truly an experience that’s hard to find elsewhere in the world. My favourite conveyer belt sushi restaurant in Osaka is Genrokuzushi Sennichimae. It’s very affordable, the sushi tastes fresh, and the service is amazing!
• For Ramen : While I’m personally not a huge fan of ramen, it is undoubtedly one of the most popular Japanese dishes. For some of the best ramen in Osaka, I recommend checking out Hanamaruken Namba Houzenji.

Top Places to Drink in Osaka

• Balabushka : A pool and darts bar in Osaka with a great atmosphere, Balabushka is one of the best drinking spots for locals and tourists alike.
• Video Game Bar Space Station : For a fun, themed Osaka bar, I recommend checking out the Video Game Bar Space Station. Decorated with neon lights and filled with vintage videogames you can play for free, this is one of the best bars in Osaka!
• Bar Nayuta : Located in America Mura, the Bar Nayuta is an intimate bar with a relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff, gothic decorations, and creative cocktails. It is definitely worth a visit!

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Where to Stay in Osaka

Osaka is a huge city, so there are many possible areas to stay in. However, since Osaka is so big, I recommend finding accommodations somewhere central and close to a train station.

The Tennoji area is where you’ll find the most budget options, and it is also near many restaurants, shops, and train lines. However, the Kita and Minami areas are better for the more mid-range accommodation options. The Minami area is especially good for nightlife.

Here are some options for where to stay in Osaka:

• Airbnb: The average cost for 2 people per night is around ¥9,678 (around $93.25 USD/night). 
• Hostel: Stay at the Osaka Guesthouse Nest for ¥1,486 ($14.32 USD) a night for a mixed dorm bed.

And if you are visiting Kyoto, make sure you check out these recommendations of where to stay in Kyoto .

Author Bio: Mia is a Canadian with a passion for hiking and exploring the world on foot. She is currently working abroad in Japan and runs the successful travel blog Walk a While with Me , where she shares her tips and guides for travelling around the world. Follow Mia adventures on Instagram too! 

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

To book flights, I always use flight search engine Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through  Booking.com.  I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. If you haven’t signed up with  Airbnb  already, you can use  this link  to get £25 off your first visit!

Travel Insurance

Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner. 

You can also find me on social media:  Facebook ,  Twitter,   YouTube  and  Instagram .

Did you know I also vlog my trips? Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel so you get alerted when all my travel videos go live…  CHECK THEM OUT HERE

Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please  share it for me with all your friends and family!

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

• Last Updated: April 29, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get your Osaka Castle ticket here .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The displays are interactive, educational, and enjoyable.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our extensive guide for traveling to Japan !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit the website for more info !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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

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

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

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Home » Asia » Japan » Osaka

Insider Osaka Itinerary for 2024

Osaka is known as the friendliest city in all of Japan, the people are the true gem of the ancient capital of Japan. But besides making new friends, Osaka is full of strange and quirky things to do, a fascinating history, and best of all, home to the tastiest food in all of Japan. 

This is the palace where conveyor belt sushi and Takoyaki were invented. So,  get ready to ditch that tight waistband, my friends, ’cause you’re gonna feast like there’s no tomorrow.

I spent two weeks in Osaka scoping out the BEST things to do in Japan’s foodie capital and I am here to help you plan th e ultimate trip to this wonderful city, whether its a day or a week, you’ll never forget your time in Osaka.

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A Little Bit about this 3-Day Osaka Itinerary

Where to stay in osaka, osaka itinerary, day 1 itinerary in osaka, day 2 itinerary in osaka, osaka itinerary: 3 days or more, best time to visit osaka, how to get around osaka, what to prepare before visiting osaka, faq on osaka itinerary, a conclusion to your itinerary in osaka.

Osaka’s history, culture, foodie scene, and entertainment district make Osaka a truly memorable city! It has something for every traveler, from world-class theme parks to incredible museums and street food stalls, you’ll never run out of things to do in Osaka!

Whether you’re spending one day in Osaka or 3 days in Osaka, there are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! I’d personally suggest taking at least two-three full days to explore the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but you’ll miss out on some of the cool and quirky sites that make Osaka so famous. If you can, do set more time aside.

In this 3 day Osaka itinerary, you’ll find each day is packed with action, culture, history, and adventure. You won’t have to rush from A to B though because I’ve sorted everything by proximity. Of course, you can change it up as much as you want. Add stops, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this itinerary as inspiration to get the most out of your trip!

3 Day Osaka Itinerary Overview

• Day One – Museum of Art | Bunraku Theatre | Namba Parks | Tempozan Ferris Wheel | Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
• Day Two – Osaka Castle Park | Mint Museum | Umeda Sky Building | Museum of History | Dotonbori
• Day Three – Expo ‘70 | Universal Studios | Momofuku Ando | Hattori Ryokuchi | Osaka Food Tour

As Japan’s third-largest city, Osaka is filled to the brim with places to see. It’s quite a widespread city with excellent transport options so there is also a wide variety of great places to stay in Osaka. Consider experiencing Osaka Capsule Hotels – a novel and compact stay option that perfectly complements the city’s futuristic and dynamic atmosphere.

The Osaka Castle area is also an ideal place to stay as it is jam-packed with Osaka landmarks and great hotels! There are also some lovely Airbnbs in Osaka .

There are so many exciting things to do in Osaka that it’s pretty hard to go wrong. As long as you’re near a train station and a great place to eat, Osaka is a goldmine of things to do!

Stay at one of these  awesome hostels in Osaka  to really make your time in this city memorable!

Best Hostel in Osaka – Hostel Mitsuwaya Osaka

With its epic location inside a retired toy store, the Hostel Mitsuwaya Osaka makes the perfect budget accommodation. Nestled in the beating heart of Osaka, but with an atmosphere of tranquillity, this safe and fun hostel will make your trip to Osaka even better. Rent one of their bicycles and head out to explore the city from this centrally located spot!

Best Airbnb in Osaka – Cozy House Namba

This private three-bedroom apartment in central Osaka can accommodate up to 12 people! One bedroom has a double bed and a single bed, another has a sofa bed, and the other has Japanese-style tatami mats.

It has a modern and well-equipped kitchen with a dining table and chairs, separate toilet and bathroom, a washing machine, a living area, outdoor space, Wi-Fi, and four free bicycles for you to use to explore.

Best Budget Hotel in Osaka – Ayana House

Enjoy this immaculate and well-maintained apartment as your home-away-from-home while you’re in Osaka. Just a stone’s throw away from exciting Dotonbori and Shin-Imamiya Station, for easy access to the best of Osaka’s attractions, Ayana House is the ideal place to stay on your holiday!

Best Luxury Hotel in Osaka – Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier

To experience true Japanese hospitality and an unbeatable view of Osaka’s skyline, check in at one of Osaka’s finest luxury hotels. Why pass up the chance of an in-room massage and impeccable facilities when you can have it all, and an amazing view to boot! Make the Mitsui Garden Hotel your accommodation of choice, and with its central location, all you need to do is step out the front door to discover the sights of Osaka!

Osaka is an energetic city full of fun places to visit and with an amazing landscape, all the way from Osaka Bay to the lush outskirts of the city. No matter what you’re looking for, from nearby spots to explore to the more outlandish features, finding your ideal Osaka trip itinerary is beyond easy.

There are so many things to do in Osaka that you will feel spoiled for choice. Let’s dive into our 3 days in Osaka itinerary. Starting with day one…

9AM – National Museum of Art, Osaka (NMAO)

Take a walk through the hallowed halls of Osaka’s art world beneath the terra firma on the fantastical Nakanoshima Island!

Begin your unique artistic experience at the stunning silver gates, which welcome you into the museum. The gates are shaped like bamboo, and were inspired by the vitality of bamboo, which paints a picture of the growth of contemporary art in Japan!

The National Museum of Art has a fantastic collection of significant international and Japanese works, which have been carefully selected over 30 years. Enjoy a meander through the 3 stories of art from across the years including works by prominent artists Cezanne, Picasso and Ernst. You can also enjoy the stunning post-war pieces by Foujita, Ikemura, Ishiuchi, and Kuniyoshi.

Begin your Osaka travels with this eclectic museum experience that literally takes you deeper!

• Cost – 430 yen ($4) per adult, 130 yen ($2) for university students, free for high school students and over-65-year-olds.
• Getting there: Take the nearest subway station to Higobashi Station via the Yotsubashi Subway Line. From here it’s a 5-10 minute walk.
• How long should I spend there: Around 1-2 hours should be enough, depending on how much you love art.

10.30AM – Namba Parks

Namba Parks is a shopping complex with the ultimate difference. The mall itself is packed to the rafters with fun stores and hidden basement eateries, but it is the stunning range of rooftop parks that make it an oasis in the middle of bustling Osaka!

The building has a unique location in the footprint of Osaka’s old baseball stadium and with its 8 levels of tree groves, rock formations, and waterfalls, Namba Parks is 100% worth a visit. Take in views of the cityscape as you traverse the unbelievable rooftop environment!

As you climb over canyons and enjoy the trickling sound of a stream, the parks make for a surreal experience. There are terraces to sit on and enjoy the view, and you can even search for a vegetable garden or two.

As a lush patch of green in Osaka’s neon-infused streets, the parks are connected directly to the street so commuters and tourists can pass through easily and enjoy a taste of nature!

• Cost – Entrance is free!
• G etting there: Take the subway to Nankai Station, and from there you can enter the parks by the Central and South exits.
• How long should I spend there: 1-2 hours should suffice.

11.30AM – Tempozan Ferris Wheel

For a gondola with a view, head for a ride on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel in Osaka’s Harbour Village. Gaze out over Osaka Bay as you take a 360 degree trip round Tempozan’s giant Ferris wheel!

The brightly colored attraction makes quite a feature on Osaka’s landscape, with its unique role as the local weather vane. The Ferris wheel shines different colors to represent the day’s weather, including a bright orange for sunshine, green for cloudy weather, and blue means it’ll rain.

The giant bay-side attraction used to hold the title for the tallest Ferris wheel in the world when it opened in 1997, and you can see why at an impressive height of 112.5 meters! You can use your view from the top to scope out other amazing Osaka features for the day with Mount Ikoma, Universal Studios Japan, the Mount Rokko and the Akashi Kaiky Bridge visible from your pod in the sky.

For the brave among you, there’s also the opportunity to pick one of the Ferris wheel’s transparent gondolas!

Insider Tip: While you’re in the area, head over to Mt Tempo, Japan’s smallest mountain, which sits at 4.5 meters high.

• Cost – 800 yen ($8).
• Getting there: Take the subway to Osakako Station via the Chuo Line.
• How long should I spend there: No more than an hour.

1:00PM – The Original Pancake House

For today’s lunch spot, we’re heading to The Original Pancake House . In a mall full of delicious options, this is by far the best place to eat! From the uber-popular Dutch Baby to the simple and sweet coconut pancake, the Namba Parks OG pancakes are a great way to refuel for the day!

2.00PM – Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

If you’re looking to experience one of the most incredible aquariums in the world, Japan has your answer!

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is designed to take visitors on a journey through the Pacific Ocean, with amazing exhibits which give you an informative and unbelievable look into this aquatic world.

Take a journey around the Pacific Rim as you enjoy the exhibits and features, each designed with a classic creative Japanese style. Begin your travels into this labyrinth of blue as you enter through the Fish Underpass – Aqua Gate , a walk-through tunnel with sea life on every side!

Then, experience every creature from river fish of the Japanese Forest to the adorable tufted puffin of the Aleutian Islands. The aquarium’s main attraction is the Pacific Ocean exhibit, with 14 surrounding aquatic exhibits arranged to match their position on the Pacific Rim!

One of the aquarium’s most spectacular features is the jellyfish exhibit, which gives you the feeling of staring into an aquatic galaxy, amongst the mystical sway of the jellyfish. There are even Japanese spider crabs!

Finish off your first day in Osaka with this trip through the waters of the Pacific, then as night falls, stay for more fun as the Night Aquarium comes to life!

• Cost – 2300 yen ($21) for over-16s, 2000 yen ($18) for over-60s, 1200 yen ($11) for children between 7 and 15 years old, 600 yen ($6) for 4 to 5-year-olds, children under 3 enter for free.
• Getting there: Take the subway to Osakako Station and walk for 5 minutes from there.
• How long should I spend there: 2-3 hours should be enough time to see it all.

7:00PM – National Bunraku Theatre

Enjoy the fantastical stylings of Osaka’s National Bunraku Theatre as you take in a show or explore the memorable theatre itself.

The theatre was opened to protect and further the precious traditional art form of Bunraku . Performers tell emotive stories through the intricate movements of the giant wooden-headed puppets they operate. Bunraku began as a rare form of entertainment for the general public, and the theatre is carrying on that tradition!

The theatre is a jack of all trades in its efforts to preserve the art form as it houses a training institution and a fascinating archive of historical materials. The building is a work of art and history itself as it forms a mix of tradition and modernity while characterizing key elements of Edo era of Japanese architecture.

Enjoy a memorable experience of one of Japan’s classic performance forms, the perfect addition to your Osaka trip!

• Cost – Varies per performance but the exhibition hall is free.
• Getting there: Take the subway to Nippombashi Station and walk from there.
• How long should I spend there: depending on the show.

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For our second day in Osaka, I will be including the more historic and cultural attractions in the city, such as Osaka Castle and the Dotonbori, the nightlife district in Osaka.

9.00AM – Osaka Castle Park

Make the perfect start to your second day in Osaka on a visit to the Osaka Castle Park , a lush landscape full of history and stunning natural beauty!

The park’s defining feature is the stunning Osaka Castle, which sits regally amongst the trees and surrounded by an impressive moat! You can explore the castle corridors and discover ancient weaponry as well as unmissable artwork along the walls. The castle is also home to a museum with an array of historical artifacts and fascinating digital exhibits recounting the castle’s history, including a virtual reality diorama depicting the Summer War of Osaka .

The castle’s architecture is also a fascinating piece of Edo history with 13 remarkable features, including the Otemon Gates and Sengan Turret, which are treasured cultural landmarks in Osaka. Then, head up to the 8th-floor observation deck with a spectacular panoramic view of the park, Osaka Bay, and all the way to Mount Ikoma. Don’t forget to view the incredible stone wall remnants, which are said to be made up of 1 million stones!

You can take a boat ride around the moat-like a royal of old, or explore the endless fields that surround it. If you’re visiting in springtime, enjoy the pale beauty of 600 cherry trees, and discover the many alcoves dotted around the park including Nishinomaru Garden or the Grove of Remembrance!

• Cost – 600 yen ($6), under-15s enter for free.
• Getting there: Take the JR Loop Line to Tanimachi Yonchome Station and walk from there.
• How long should you stay : around 1.5 hours should be enough.

11.30AM – Mint Museum

Experience the life inside a money box at Osaka’s Mint Museum, a great addition to your 3-day itinerary for Osaka. Inside an old power plant, sits the fascinating world of mint (or coin making), which is dedicated to introducing the work of the Japan Mint to the world!

Explore the museum’s 3 floors which give a history of the Osaka Mint Bureau, offer a look inside the coin minting process, and tell the history of coinage from its origins in ancient China to modern-day Japan.

Visit the memorable Experience Corner where you can test your abilities by lifting various coin bags and a hefty senryo-bako chest! Pay a visit to the Mint Shop (not to buy herbs) but to pick up some fun souvenir medallions, paperweights, or commemorative coin collections.

The 3rd floor houses a spectacular coin collection ranging from true antiques to more contemporary collections, including some niche Star Wars designs!

The museum’s 300 cherry trees are also open for viewing for one week each spring when the trees are formed into a glorious tunnel, and beautifully illuminated at night!

• Cost – It’s free!
• Getting there: From Osaka Station, take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Sakuranomiya Station and walk from there.
• How long should you stay : Tours usually last around 90 minutes.

1:00PM – Lunch at the Garden Oriental

For a tasty lunch with great ambiance, head for the Garden Oriental Osaka . Choose from well-priced set menus with tasty options such as the marinated seafood platter or a lighter fare from their cafe, and enjoy your meal in a tranquil Japanese garden.

2.00PM – Umeda Sky Building, An AMAZING Floating Garden Observatory

At the top of Osaka’s spectacular Umeda Sky Building, you will find Kuchu Teien . The incredible Floating Garden Observatory offers some of the best views in Osaka from its spot on the 39th floor!

The viewing platform sits on the bridge connecting the 2 glass towers of the building, with a roof that is perfectly shaped to give visitors an unobstructed 360-degree view of the city, and you can even spot Awaji Island in the distance!

The Umeda Sky Building’s atrium-like attic is pretty spectacular, but their basement is also worth a visit! The building sits over an underground market of traditional Japanese restaurants, which is a nod to Osaka in the early 20th century.

Whether you’re heading to new heights or enjoying the hidden street market, the Umeda Sky Building hits the spot!

• Cost – 1500 yen ($14) per adult, 700 yen ($7) for children between 4 and 12 years old.
• Getting there: Take the nearest subway station to Osaka Station City or and Umeda Station and walk for 10 minutes through an underground passage in Osaka Station.
• How long should I spend there: 1-2 hours should be enough time to take some photos and enjoy to views.

3.00PM – Osaka Museum of History

If you’re looking to discover Osaka’s truly ancient history, the Osaka Museum of History is where you want to be!

Begin your journey through time on the museum’s 10th floor, which houses a full-size recreation of the inside of the Naniwanomiya Palace. Then, take a stroll through exhibits portraying different eras in Osaka’s history, which become more and more contemporary as you reach ground level.

You will arrive when Osaka served as Japan’s first capital and complete your journey during the early Showa Period, with each moment in time captured through amazing visually-intricate exhibits!

With a design that offers visitors an incredible multi-layered experience of the city’s 1350-year history, the museum is any history buff’s dream! Engage with life-size models and scale replicas, as well as storied photographs and films, which dive deeply into Osaka’s past.

• Cost – 600 yen ($6) per adult, 400 yen ($4) for high school and university students, younger students and over-65s enter for free.
• Getting there: Take the subway to Tanimachi Yonchome Station on the Tanimachi or Chuo subway lines and then walk for 5 minutes.
• How long should I spend there: around 2 hours should be enough.

7.00PM – Dotonbori

Experience one of Osaka’s prime nightlife hubs, which is ablaze with activity, neon lights and good food to eat!

Take a stroll across Ebisubashi Bridge and snap a pic of the iconic Glico running man from his spot on one of Dotonbori’s many shimmering facades. Meandering along the river walk is one of the best ways to see the sights and get a taste of the area.

While Osaka is the ‘nation’s kitchen’, Dotonbori is Osaka’s own foodie paradise, with endless eateries that stay open well after midnight! You can also take in a show at the Osaka Shochikuza, a traditional kabuki theater, with amazing performances full of comedic flair and stunning physicality.

The canal is a stunning feature in downtown Osaka, and sailing down the waterways of Dotonbori makes an amazing end to your 2 days in Osaka!

• Cost – Canal boat ride is 900 yen ($9) for 12 years old and up, 400 yen ($4) for children between 6 and 12 years old.
• Getting there: Take the subway to JR Namba Station using your japan rail pass on the Yamatoji line, then walk for 5 minutes.
• How long should I spend there: You could spend all night here if that’s what you are after! If you just want to see the sites, 1-2 hours should be enough.

Hostel Mitsuwaya Osaka

Nestled in the beating heart of Osaka, but with an atmosphere of tranquility, this safe and fun hostel will make your trip to Osaka even better.

• 24H Reception

If you’ve found yourself in the amazing position of filling up 3 days in Osaka (or more), we’ve compiled the very best of Osaka attractions and tours for you to enjoy. This is the perfect 3-day itinerary for a short trip to Osaka!

Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park

• The former site of the National Museum of Art, Osaka.
• Features a 300-meter long wooden canopy walkway.
• Home of the National Museum of Ethnology.

Enjoy a day at the site of the 1970 World Fair (or Expo ‘70), which has become a lush landscape filled with gardens, museums and a ton of entertainment options!

One of the most famous sculptures seated on the lawn is the Tower of the Sun, a majestic piece of art, which has become a major feature in the park. The tower has 3 faces, the Golden Mask which stares skyward represents the future, the front Face of the Sun represents the present, and the Black Sun face represents the past. The tower is an original piece from the Expo ‘70 and sits regally in the Natural and Cultural Gardens, which are sprinkled with artworks, seasonal flower displays and beautiful woods to explore!

The park is also the home of 5000 cherry trees, which make for a spectacular sight when they’re in full bloom! If you happen to be visiting Japan in spring and cherry blossom season, it’s a deliciously romantic Osaka honeymoon itinerary spot.

You can also enjoy the shimmering ponds at Expo ‘70 including the ‘Dream Pond’ boating spot and Shinji-ike pond, named after its Kanji heart character. Or, if you’re looking for an extra taste of Japanese culture, walk around the Japanese Folk Crafts Museum, which displays fine ceramics, textiles, and crafts from across Japan.

Expo ‘70 is an amazing way to spend the day in a space filled with history, natural beauty, and endless photo opportunities!

Universal Studios Japan

• Home to the backward roller coaster: Hollywood Dream – The Ride (Backdrop).
• The JR Yumesaki Line trains, which takes you to the park, are all painted with Universal themes so there’s no chance of missing them.
• You can visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

On the edge of Osaka Bay awaits Universal Studios Japan , one of 4 action-packed Universal theme parks across the world. The fun park is like an island of its own with an amazing selection of attractions and rides!

The 9 zones across the park include the animated world of Hollywood where you can pay a visit to Shrek in 4D as well as the Universal Wonderland where you can fly with Snoopy or whizz round in a giant cupcake. Head for Amity Village for a thrilling experience on the iconic Jaws ride, then journey on to another classic location – Jurassic Park, home to the Flying Dinosaur, a roller coaster that takes you upside down!

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to turn into a minion (and who hasn’t), you’ll enjoy the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride at Minion Park!

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum

• A Noodle Museum where you can make your own noodles!
• Discover more about one of the world’s most underrated food industries.
• Enjoy quizzes and hands-on exhibits.

One of the most unique places to visit in Osaka is hands down, the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum . For everyone from noodle enthusiasts to the curious traveler, this museum is full of fascinating exhibits and interactive features. It’s got everything you never knew you needed in a museum (and it just happens to be very interesting too)!

If you are backpacking, then subsisting on a diet of Ramen noodles is one way to reduce your costs in Japan . So it only makes sense to come here for a better understanding!

The exhibits take you all the way from his experiments in a shed, to the interactive theater in a giant cup of noodles, where you can see anecdotes from his journey to success play out like a film. Discover the fascinating development of instant noodles in post-war Japan and how it has grown today, including the company’s creation of NASA noodles which can be eaten easily in space. Enjoy a stroll through the instant noodle tunnel, with approximately 800 product packages lining the walls.

For 300 yen ($3), you can also make your own noodle flavor and packaging at the My CUPNOODLES Factory .

Enjoy this unique Osaka attraction as you discover a piece of Japan’s past not often mentioned in the history books!

Hattori Ryokuchi Park

• Has an outdoor concert hall.
• Has a collection of ponds and pools formed by the meeting of 2 rivers.
• During the summer, there’s an outdoor kabuki theater.

The Hattori Ryokuchi Park more than lives up to its name meaning ‘green ground’. Explore the interwoven landscape of bamboo gardens, flower gardens, and fields on a trip to one of Osaka’s stunning parks.

There is also an unbelievable arboretum which grows approximately 120 species of herbs, which fill your senses, and 700 species of camellia, a beautiful Japanese flower that represents the arrival of spring.

Explore the giant forested park, there is a labyrinth of waterways including more than 10 ponds, a swimming pools, and a fishing pond. You can also go for an exhilarating horse ride through the park!

One of the park’s defining features is the surreal Open-Air Museum of Old Japanese Farmhouses with examples of rural architecture from across Japan including Gassho-zukuri, Magari-ya, and Takakura.

Osaka Food Tour

• Find your new go-to Japanese dish.
• Get tips on the best way to order your meals in Osaka.
• Get to know Osaka’s streets from a local perspective.

Being the food haven that it is, you can’t visit Osaka without tasting just about every dish on offer. The best way to do that? Go on an Osaka food tour !

Get an in-depth look at the cuisine and history of Dotonbori while you go beyond the main street and find the hidden gems of Osaka’s food world!

Get a taste of kushikatsu, a classic Japanese dish of deep-fried meat and vegetables on a skewer. Discover the Michelin-rated street food of Osaka, including takoyaki, which are delicious dough balls usually filled with octopus, tempura pieces, pickled ginger, and green onion.

Then finish your night with an electric vibe and tasty offerings at Izakaya, a popular local pub. Enjoy traditional local cuisine like sukiyaki (thinly sliced beef simmered in vegetables, soy sauce, sugar, and mirin), accompanied by a drink of craft beer or Nihonshu (rice wine).

Experience the atmosphere and flavors of downtown Osaka while you spend a night out on the town!

The best time to visit Osaka is anytime! The temperature in the city is often pleasant and much less prone to extreme weather patterns, like typhoons and epic rainstorms. Winters are chilly but not freezing and snow only falls on rare occasions.

If anything, Osaka is only frustrating to visit during certain times of the year when Japanese people are on holiday. For example, during Golden Week and when the Cherry Blossoms are blooming the streets will be much more crowded and prices will be noticeably higher.

Otherwise, visiting Osaka is great whenever. If you can plan a trip around the shoulder months (March, October), you’ll get to enjoy the best weather and the best prices for that matter. It’s a win-win for an awesome Osaka itinerary!

It’s no surprise that Osaka City is pretty big with loads of interesting sites to see. Luckily, you can find a super well-developed public transport network spread throughout all parts of the city. The public transport here also makes taking one of the many day trips from Osaka super easy too.

The subway lines and bullet trains are the lifeblood of traveling through Osaka. Some of the best places to stay are the main stops on the Midosuji subway line , which runs from north to south across the city. These include:

• Shin Osaka Station
• Kita , Minami
• Central Osaka
• Tennoji Station .

Osaka is divided into 24 wards, with 2 major hubs: Kita (in the north) and Minami (in the south). Kita, which is also known as Umeda, is a bustling area with a ton of attractions and restaurants to visit! If you’re traveling from another popular Japanese destination, Kyoto, you will arrive in Kita.

In the south of Osaka, you’ll find Minami (Namba), which is a vibrant cityscape full of fantastic eateries and eclectic Japanese attractions, including the Don Quixote superstore which has a 77-meter-high Ferris wheel perched on top!

The subway network in Osaka is also super easy to navigate. Like Tokyo, it runs on a color and number system, which makes it easy to work out where to go. The JR Loop line, otherwise known as the Osaka loop line, connects Osaka Station to all the main attractions in the city center such as Osaka Castle, JR Osaka Namba Station, Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine and Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street. On this line, you can use your japan rail pass, but on other metro lines you will need to buy a ticket.

You will find subway stations in almost all areas in Osaka. You can get a prepaid Icoca card, which can be used on any form of transport in Osaka. However, I would not recommend buses as they are slower and don’t reach the tourist areas as easily as the subway. 

Taxis are also reasonably affordable in Osaka. The average price of a taxi is about Y660 for the first 2km, and then Y80 per 296 meters after that. Taxi drivers in Osaka are also kind and safe. Uber and Lyft are also operational in Osaka and but are rarely used as the taxis are so cheap.

As the third-largest city in Japan and with the population to prove, Osaka’s bustling streets are usually filled with everyone from locals to travelers from all around the globe.

Despite the busy city streets, Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and the overall crime risk is low. However, traveling anywhere, and specifically internationally means taking useful safety precautions. Pickpocketing can be a possibility, particularly in the Shinsekai area, so it’s best to keep an eye on your belongings.

In certain areas such as Shinsekai Tobita Shinchi , drink-spiking can be a problem in bars and nightclubs. Remember to watch your own drink being poured, keep your thumb over any open bottles, and don’t leave your drink unattended.

There are also certain areas such as Kamagasaki , where crime is more prevalent. It is best to avoid these areas when you are alone or at night. So, make sure to follow these tips before visiting:

• Be particularly vigilant in touristy areas like the Shinsekai area.
• Public transport is also a hotspot for petty crime, so hold tight to your belongings for any journeys you take.
• It is generally quite safe to walk around popular areas at night, but keep an eye out for dodgy characters.

Keeping safe while you’re traveling is always a top priority so make sure you keep an eye on your belongings as you move from place to place, and be vigilant as you cross the roads in busy traffic. It’s also a good idea to know emergency numbers (119 in Osaka) for the city you’re visiting. Have a safe trip to Osaka!

Get Insurance Before Smashing Out Your Osaka Itinerary!

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Osaka itinerary.

How many days do you need in Osaka?

With so much to see and do, we recommend spending 3-5 full days in Osaka.

What should you include on a 3 day Osaka itinerary?

Don’t skip these awesome Osaka highlights! – Namba Parks – Osaka Castle Park – Umeda Sky Building – Dotonbori

Where is the best place to stay in Osaka?

Umeda (Kita) and Osaka Bay are best if you want to be close to attractions. Honmachi is ideal for budget backpackers, while the best nightlife can be found in Namba.

What are the best day trips from Osaka?

There are some epic day trips from Osaka. Marvel at Amanohashidate, enjoy a snow day at Shiga Kogen, or relax in nature at Minoo Park. For something truly unique, make your way to Japan’s Goldfish Capital!

Have yourself the trip of a lifetime in Osaka, a place of epic dining, rooftop nature parks, and enough historical landmarks to make any history buff swoon! Whether you’re spending a weekend in Osaka or planning an epic Osaka itinerary (one week and counting), you’ll find something for everyone!

Continuin on and travelling in Japan? Check out our backpacking Japan travel guide for more insider tips. And make sure you pack right for Japan!

Get lost in the unique and vibrant atmosphere of Osaka, the ‘big apple’ of Japan – a city that never sleeps (because there’s just too much to see)!

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The Ultimate 3 Day OSAKA Itinerary | Japan Travel Guide (2023)

Japan’s second most energetic metropolis is house to a few of the nation’s greatest avenue meals and a bunch of enjoyable actions and experiences, so seize a pocket book and a pen and we’ll present you the very best issues to do in Osaka that it’s worthwhile to jot down in your itinerary.

Our 3 day Osaka information will take you to all the iconic points of interest – Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Dotonbori – together with a Universal Studios Japan, and day journey concepts for Nara, Kyoto and Kobe.

Plus, we take you on a tour inside one of many latest digital artwork displays – teamLAB Botanical Garden that’s unique to Osaka.

You gained’t have a lot respiration room on this itinerary, however what the heck, who wants relaxation and sleep in any case whenever you’re in Japan?

We hope you’ll love Osaka as a lot as we do and fall in love with the town’s quirkiness and laidback vibe.

**ALL the Osaka points of interest and actions we did on Klook** ➡️ http://bit.ly/3kQzWdU

#OsakaGuide #OsakaItinerary #JapanTravelGuide

——– WATCH ALL OF OUR JAPAN GUIDES:

👉 The Ultimate 4 Day Tokyo Itinerary

👉 The Ultimate 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary

——– 0:00 Intro 0:25 Shitennoji Temple 1:03 Shinsekai 1:57 Harukas 300 2:53 TeamLAB Botanical Garden 3:42 Universal Studios Japan 5:33 Nara 5:44 Kyoto 6:09 Kobe 6:41 Ninja & Geisha Capsule 7:13 Osaka Castle 7:32 Dotonbori 8:02 Shinsaibashi 8:16 Pokemon Cafe 8:24 Rikuro’s Cheesecake 8:42 Amerikamura 8:56 Zauo Fishing Restaurant 9:33 Outro

——– HANGRY BY NATURE ► TikTok • https://bit.ly/35OJURw ► Blog • http://bit.ly/2OzUNhx ► Instagram • http://bit.ly/3474vij source

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

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

Top attractions in Osaka

Universal Studios ••

Minami (Namba)

Osaka Aquarium •

Tenjin Matsuri •

Osaka Castle •

Sumiyoshi Taisha •

Museum of History •

Shinsekai •

Shitennoji Temple •

Abeno Harukas •

Kita (Umeda)

Osaka Station City •

Bunraku Theater

National Art Museum

Kuromon Market

Umeda Sky Building

Osaka Expo 70 Park

Science Museum

Grand Front Osaka

Asahi Suita Brewery

Kyoto •••

Mount Koya •••

Nara •••

Kinosaki ••

Himeji ••

Kobe •

Osaka by interest.

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

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

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

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

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

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

How to choose the best places to stay in Osaka

Experiences around Osaka

Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, things to do in osaka: an osaka travel guide including easy day trips.

I visited Osaka for the first time in the spring of 2017, to meet up with Kat, my best friend from college. We hadn’t seen each other in person for almost eight years since I moved away from LA but we kept in touch every day via chat apps. That spring, we finally decided to meet up in Japan.

Since we had such an amazing time catching up in Osaka last year, Kat and I decided to do an encore and meet up again this year. Long story short I’ve found myself visiting Osaka five times since then. So yeah, this post is long overdue – it’s about time I impart some knowledge and my favorite things to do in Osaka.

Getting to Osaka

There are two best ways to get to Osaka:

By Shinkansen train – Most people get to Osaka by train from Tokyo via Shinkansen, Japan’s famous ultra-fast bullet train. If you are coming here from Tokyo and you don’t have a JR Pass, you can book the Tokyo – Osaka Shinkansen here . You’ll most likely get off at Osaka Station or Shin-Osaka Station, where you will have plenty of convenient options for local trains to switch to. If you have the Unlimited JR Pass, then the Tokyo – Osaka train is already included so you don’t need to buy separately!

By Airplane via KIX – If you are flying and landing at Kansai Airport (KIX) and will be staying in the city, I recommend taking Haruka line by Japan Rail (JR). This line takes you straight from KIX to the city, stopping at major stations Tennoji and Shin-Osaka before going on to Kyoto. If you have the unlimited JR Pass, this is already included. Make sure to check ahead if your accommodation is closer to Tennoji or Shin-Osaka as there is a slight fare difference for the bundles – Tennoji is closer to the airport so it’s cheaper. From there, you can resume with local trains using your IC card .

If you are staying at a hotel in Osaka, you might be interested in the luggage delivery services from Kansai International Airport . Luggage delivery is common in Japan and reliable. It lets you travel without having to carry your heavy luggage.

Getting around Osaka

Osaka is one of the largest metropolitan cities in Japan, second only to Tokyo . As with other big cities, you’ll find it very accessible and well-connected. Getting in and around Osaka is super easy.

Local trains in Japan run on IC (Integrated Circuit) Cards. This IC card will be your lifeline during your stay. It allows you to tap in and out of each train station without having to buy a ticket every single time you take a train. And because everyone has an IC card in Japan, you can even use your card balance to buy things from convenience stores and vending machines. Whenever the balance is running low, you can easily refill the card using cash or credit card at any train station.

Learn more about IC Card and how to use your mobile phone as an IC Card in Japan!

The IC card used in Kansai is called ICOCA. Different areas in Japan have different brands of IC cards, but they all work exactly the same way across the country. For example, in the Kanto (Tokyo) area, the popular brand is Suica or Pasmo. In the Kansai (Osaka) area, they are called ICOCA – a play on the Japanese word “Ikouka”, which means – “Let’s go!”.

Regardless of the brand, IC Cards can be used across Japan. You can use Suica and Pasmo in Kansai, and you can use ICOCA in Tokyo.

Using the virtual IC Card

Good news for iPhone users – the IC cards have gone virtual and you can use your phone as an IC card! This makes everything even more convenient, as you can refill the balance via your phone without having to go to the station.

Note that you  do not need to buy a physical IC card to do this , just start the process straight from your phone! However, if you DO have an existing IC card you can still transfer the balance to your phone. Your existing card will then stop working and you can only use your phone as an IC card from that point onwards.

If you prefer to have a physical IC card, you can buy the ICOCA Card online and pick it up from the Kansai airport. But if you already own an IC card from Tokyo or other areas of Japan, then you can just continue to use that – you don’t need to buy another one.

Do I need a JR Pass?

JR pass is a form of rail pass that gives you unlimited access to  all JR trains  in Japan for 7, 14, or 21 days. I bolded the JR train part for emphasis since this gets confusing for some people – in Japan, there are many train companies and Japan Rail (JR) is one of them, and this pass is only valid for JR trains! Getting a JR Pass makes sense if you are planning to visit multiple cities in Japan . The trains between cities aren’t cheap and you’ll be saving a lot more this way.

You HAVE to have already bought the JR Pass before your trip. You cannot buy it once you’re in Japan. You can buy the Unlimited JR Pass here and have it shipped to your house, so ensure you get it ahead of time!

The price of Unlimited JR Pass has increased by 70% since 1 Oct 2023 . Even though you’ll see many recommendations for buying a JR Pass to save some costs, it could be outdated. Since the price hike, it has become harder to justify the cost of the JR Pass, however regional passes like the JR West Kansai Pass might still be worth it. I am working on updating my blog post to reflect this change.

If you are in Osaka just to visit the Kansai area though, you might not need the unlimited JR Pass. The following JR Kansai pass covers Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, and can be picked up at the Kansai Airport (KIX). All you need to decide is how many days you want to use the pass for!

• 4 Day JR West Kansai Pass (you can also get 1, 2 or 3-day JR West pass – just click on the link in the description)
• 5 Day JR Kansai Wide Pass (if 4 days is not enough for you)

Coin Lockers in the train stations

Flying out late but have to check out early from your accommodation? You don’t have to carry your luggage around all day. You can leave your luggage in a coin locker.

Coin lockers are available everywhere in major stations and they are quite spacious and cheap to rent. I was able to fit my 45L backpack into that tiny 300 yen one at the bottom. There is an English instruction on the machine to rent them – super easy.

Be sure to come early if you are going from a popular station – I once tried to do this in Kyoto station around noon but I was not able to find any available locker. In the end, I gave up and had to lug my backpack around all day.

Where to stay in Osaka

In Osaka, it’s best to stay close to a major train station – anywhere near Umeda, Shin-Osaka, Namba, Tennoji and Umeda / Osaka station is a great option.

Here are some recommendations:

• Zentis Osaka in Umeda  ($$) – Located within a few minutes walk to Osaka Station. They have studio apartments as well as family rooms for those who want bigger accommodations.
• InterContinental Osaka  ($$$) – Also located within a few minutes walk from Osaka station, this hotel is very convenient with many amenities nearby
• Hotel Noum Osaka  ($$) – A cute modern hotel located one station away from Osaka-Umeda station.
• Umedaholic  ($$) – Small hotel near Osaka-Umeda station and close to the city center.
• Guesthouse Ten-roku  ($) – Female-only dorm, perfect for solo travelers who are looking to save on accommodations.

Things to do in Osaka

Alright, now that you know all about traveling to Osaka, here are the things I enjoyed doing in Osaka:

1. Visit the Osaka Castle

This is a must-visit when you’re in Osaka. Personally, I was way more impressed by the area around the castle rather than the castle itself. It’s surrounded by this amazing park and makes for a picturesque stroll especially if you happen to be here during Hanami (Sakura) or Momijigari (Autumn) season .

I would recommend entering the park from the southwest corner – the closest station is Morinomiya on the Chuo line – and walking through the park before finally getting to the castle.

The walk from this point would take about 20-30 minutes , so be sure to plan your time accordingly if you want to enter the castle.

You can pre-purchase the entrance ticket to the Osaka Castle here

2. Eat all the street food in Dotonbori

Dotonbori is the center of everything “Japan” in Osaka. You can find a 24-hour Donki (Japanese variety shop), Restaurants, Arcades with Gashapon machines, drug stores, vertical neon-light billboards, and most importantly for me: Takoyaki ! You can read more about Takoyaki in the “What to eat” section below.

3. Visit the anime town at Den-Den Town in Namba

If you enjoyed Akihabara in Tokyo, you’ll love Den-den town. It’s basically Osaka’s hub of everything geeky – electronics, Anime goodies, Gashapon machines, comic book stores, and video games. You can also find decent shopping here at Japanese variety stores like Loft and Donki.

If you don’t know what Gashapon is, you must try them while you are in Japan! They are these capsule toy machines that you can find all over Japan. The machine dispenses small toys or figurines in a capsule. Each machine has different themes with 4-5 possible options of toys that you can get, but you won’t know exactly which one you get until you put in your yen coins and turn that knob. It’s the literal definition of cheap thrill – each capsule toy costs only 200-400 yen.

4. Visit the Osaka Aquarium

The Osaka Aquarium is one of the most impressive aquariums I’ve ever visited so far. They have an intensive collection of marine life sourced from different parts of the world, including a pair of whale sharks in a massive tank along with other species like Manta Rays, Nurse Sharks, and Eagle rays.

However, as an avid diver, I have to admit this made me uncomfortable… especially seeing highly intelligent animals like dolphins in captivity. On the other hand, I can see how this is a great educational opportunity for kids and adults alike.

You can buy the tickets to the Osaka Aquarium online here so that you don’t have to wait in line.

5. See Osaka city from above

If you would like to see the city from high up, there are plenty of options around Osaka!

1. Highest Point of View at Harukas 300 (300m)

For the highest point of view, I suggest visiting the Umeda Sky Building Observatory at Umeda / Osaka station or Harukas 300 at Abeno Harukas in Tennoji station. The true highest one in Osaka is Abeno Harukas at 300m, while the Umeda Sky Observatory is only 170m above the ground.

You can pre-purchase the ticket to Umeda Sky Building (1500 yen) and Harukas 300 (1800 yen).

2. Retro Tsutenkaku Tower at Shin-sekai (91m)

My favorite is Tsutenkaku at Shin Sekai. Although not very tall at 103m (and the observatory is at 91m), I thought it was the most interesting tower because it has more history and character.

It was originally built in 1912 but refurbished multiple times over the years. As you are going up the tower and coming back down, you’ll be able to enjoy the retro Japan exhibition they have in the tower – stuff like Atom Boy and the retro history of Pocky and Glico snacks can be seen for free!

Purchase the Tsutenkaku ticket here and exchange it for a physical ticket when you get there

I would also highly recommend topping up an additional 300 yen to be able to reach the top deck. You can do this when you’re at the observatory.

Normally, I would not recommend topping up to get to the higher point of an observatory because it’s usually not worth it. But in the case of Tsutenkaku, it was TOTALLY worth it! The normal observation deck was indoors, but the top deck was completely outdoors. There is also a section with a glass floor so you can test your bravery by standing there and looking down. I did not pass that test because my legs were shaking as soon as I looked down 😛

3. Ferris Wheel at HEP FIVE

For a cheaper option, you can take the Ferris Wheel at HEP FIVE near Osaka station – It’s small but it’s only 600 yen per ride, you get a private car to yourself and the wait isn’t very long.

You can speed up the process too by buying the ticket ahead of time here: HEP Five Ferris Wheel , then all you have to do is scan the QR code when you get there.

6. Cup Noodles Instant Ramen Museum

Also known as Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, the gentleman who founded Nissin Food Products – the company that makes Cup Noodles. I didn’t get to do this on my visits (yet!), but if you’re like me and lived off cheap instant ramen in college, I reckon this museum warrants a visit. You can even decorate your instant ramen cup!

7. Go back in time to Kyoto (Day Trip from Osaka)

Kyoto needs no introduction – it is a must-visit when you’re in Osaka. The city is an easy 30 minutes on the rapid local train or 15 minutes on the Shinkansen.

Further Reading: I’ve written a dedicated blog post for Kyoto here:  Kyoto Travel Guide , so please check that post on all my recommendations for Kyoto.

Although I filed this under day trips outside Osaka, you need 2-3 days to properly visit Kyoto – there is so much to see and do here that it warrants a separate post by itself . Set aside one day to visit the Arashiyama side of Kyoto (west), and 2 days to visit the temples (east side of Kyoto).

But I would still recommend staying at a hotel in Osaka because accommodations are cheaper here.

8. Get friendly with Sika deer in Nara (Day Trip from Osaka)

Nara is another popular trip to take from Osaka due to its proximity – only 30-45 minutes by local train. The city is quite small, but they have many temples and shrines to visit. They also have a huge park where you can walk and interact with the free-roaming wild Sika deer population in Nara.

Further Reading: I’ve written a dedicated blog post for Nara here:  Nara Travel Guide , so please read that post for everything I know about Nara

9. Take a walk at Akame 48 Waterfalls (Day Trip from Osaka)

Akame 48 Waterfall is about an hour out of Osaka by train. It’s a short, easy trail following the main river which forms many small waterfalls. There are less than 48 waterfalls, but they used 48 in the name to signify endless waterfalls.

Further Reading:  You can read  my post about visiting Akame 48 !

10. Visit Kobe (Day Trip from Osaka)

IKobe is also 30 minutes away from Osaka by train. Kobe is well-known for… well, the delicious Kobe beef, which you’ll find plenty of in Kobe. Aside from the beef, Kobe is known as the port city and a place where immigrants thrived when Japan began trading with the outside world. So make sure to check out Kobe’s Chinatown area, the Kobe ropeway, and the Nunobiki waterfall.

11. Suntory Yamazaki Whiskey Distillery

If you are a whiskey lover, a trip to this distillery is a must. They are located about 30 minutes from Osaka / Umeda station. You can visit the Yamazaki Whiskey Museum for free and do some whiskey tasting (not free). If you’re interested to learn about the whiskey-making process then they have tours that cost 1000-2000 yen.

Make sure you book your slot for the tour ahead of time here

12. Bonus: See Mount Fuji from above if you’re coming to Osaka on a domestic flight from Tokyo

If you are flying to Osaka from Tokyo, try to get a window seat on the right side of the plane. You might just get lucky and see Mount Fuji about 30 minutes into the flight. I knew about this before so I picked a window seat on the right side of the plane on my way there, but I wasn’t lucky with the weather. Mount Fuji was hiding underneath all those clouds… :/

What and Where to Eat in Osaka

Just like other big cities in Japan, there is plenty of good food in Osaka. Here are some of my favorites!

1. Takoyaki (Octopus Ball)

When visiting Osaka, eating Takoyaki is a must . Takoyaki is one of the most well-known street snacks in Japan. It’s a ball-shaped snack made from a wheat-flour-based batter with chopped-up juicy octopus tentacles and other ingredients such as ginger and green onion, grilled in a pan with hemispherical holes to help shape it into a ball. Once done, it’s served with takoyaki sauce and Japanese mayo, then topped with crispy bonito flakes. Although you can find this all over Japan, it was popularized in Osaka.

I tried Takocha near Umeda station. It’s a very small stall manned by one guy, and you might have to wait for your takoyaki. However, the takoyaki is stunningly delicious.

Takocha Closest Station: Osaka-Umeda Station or Osaka Station Direction: Google Maps

One of the most popular places to get Takoyaki is Dotonbori. The one I tried is from the Konamon Takoyaki Museum in the middle of Dotonbori and it was delicious! The batter is crispy on the outside yet juicy on the inside. The bits of octopus are also quite generous. Best of all, they’re always made fresh on the spot! If you see a queue forming, fret not. They’re just waiting for the next batch and once that’s done, the queue moves fast. I ended up eating a dozen of these by myself…

Konamon Takoyaki Museum  Nearest Station: Namba (Midosuji Line) Direction: Google Maps

2. Japanese Cheesecake from Rikuro Ojisan no Mise

Rikuro Ojisan no mise means “Grandpa Rikuro’s store”. You might have seen this store making its rounds on social media.

Popular for the fluffy cheesecake that “jiggles” as it comes out fresh out of the oven, Rikuro Ojisan cheesecake originated from Osaka and for a while could only be found in Osaka and Kobe, though I heard there are now branches in Shanghai and Beijing.

Their cheesecake is different from the ones you get in, say, New York, which tends to be very rich. Rikuro’s cheesecake is very fluffy in texture and light in taste – much like other Japanese desserts, it’s not too overly sweet. I only got a slice but I feel like I could have eaten an entire cake on my own.

3. Yakitori at an Izakaya in Namba

Visiting an Izakaya for some yakitori is a must when you’re in Japan. There are tons of them near Namba station, on the south-west side.

Izakaya is popular among corporate men and women as an after-work watering hole because they serve cheap small plates of various grilled skewers that go well with alcohol. My favorite is called Yakitori Nambatei, a small hole-in-wall restaurant where each plate costs 300-400 yen and comes with 3 skewers. I recommend having their draft beer as well!

Yakitori Nambatei Nearest Station: Namba (Midosuji Line) Direction: Google Maps

4. Naniwa Omurice

Trivia: “Naniwa” is the old name of Osaka from the 6th century. The earliest record of the city being referred to in Osaka dates back to 14th century.

In Japanese cuisine, there are plenty of occurrences of “japanized western food” aka yoshoku , where the Japanese have adopted western dishes and made it into their own. Omurice is a popular example of this and has become a staple comfort food for many Japanese households. It’s usually made by a mother for their small children as it’s fun to eat and tastes good.

Omurice can be served in tomato-based sauce, or demi-glace sauce (savory beef sauce). I prefer the latter. Naniwa Omurice serves both styles and you can add more toppings such as Kaarage (Japanese fried chicken), fried prawn, pork cutlet or cheese.

Naniwa Omurice Nearest Station: Shinsaibashi (Midosuji) Direction: Google Maps

5. Fishing Boat Restaurant Zauo

If you want a bit more drama with your dinner, try visiting Zauo at Namba. At this restaurant, you can catch your own fish and they will prepare them for you in any style you want.

It’s not for the faint of heart though – I for one couldn’t bear to fish because I felt so bad for them… while fishing, you can feel the hooks dragging against their scales and I just couldn’t do it. So, I let my friends do the hard work and enjoyed the catch later 😡 But it’s still fun!

Zauo Fishing Boat Restaurant Nearest Station: Namba (Midosuji Line) Direction: Google Maps

6. Zundouya Ramen

Zundouya Ramen specializes in Tonkotsu ramen, a type of ramen where the broth is made from boiling pork bone for hours until it turns white. It’s originated from Fukuoka but you can enjoy it all over Japan these days.

Zundouya is one of those ramen shops where you order outside the shop at a vending machine, then bring the voucher in and they’ll make your order for you. You can customize the noodles (curly or straight), the done-ness of the noodles (al dente, regular or soft), and the intensity of the broth (light, regular, or strong/fatty).

There are a few locations in Osaka but the one I went to is near Umeda / Osaka Station.

Zundouya Ramen Nearest Station: Umeda Direction: Google Maps

Alright, folks! That’s all from me about traveling in Osaka. Let me know in the comment below what you think and if there is anything else you want to know. I’ll be happy to answer your question as best as I can.

Til next time 👋

Are you planning a trip to Japan? I’ve written loads about the beautiful country. Check out the  ‘Japan’ category of this blog for some travel inspiration.

19 Comments

• March 11, 2024

Please don’t eat octopus, they are the most intelligent creatures on the planet behind humans (way above dolphins and chimps). I dare you to watch “My octopus teacher” and then eat octopus, squid or calamari. I’m also a diver and this documentary is very powerful. Great blog, well done! I’m going in May and look forward to all the things to see, eat and do.

• December 14, 2023

My friend n I (ladies age 60-72) would like to see Sakura from April 6-20 2024. Appreciate your recommendation which place should we go in order not to miss Sakura.

• October 18, 2023

Hi Melissa, I am just glad to find your posts. I’ll be traveling with my family to Osaka in December for 4 days. Can you share some of your recommendation on my first day in Osaka as I want to explore the city before we get to the AirBNB which is near Nishikujo station (close to USJ). will be coming from tokyo by bullet train but have not bought tickets yet. i am planning to get the 6:30 AM bullet from tokyo but will be too early to check in the air BNB. any recommended places close to shin-osaka station that we can look around to pass time? thanks

• June 21, 2023

Nice reading info for Osaka. Is our first trip to Japan.. hope get more info from you.

We will reach Kansai Airport then to Tokyo for 5 days then back to Osaka for 5 days before back to Singapore. From Kansai airport to Tokyo hotel, near Shin-Okubo. Would you suggest to buy JR Pass? Our trips rather straight forward, as NEW to Japan.

Mainly all the famous spot in Tokyo and Osaka such as Gotokuji Temple, Tokyo Tower, Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo, Ikebukuro, Asakusabashi, Shibuya and Harajuku for Tokyo. As for Osaka will be Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi-Suj, Kuromon Market and Nipponbashi Denden Town..

looking forward to your suggestion..

thanks sooooo much

Hey Rosalind, the one way cost to get from Tokyo is already $140 one way on the bullet train (shinkansen), so it’s definitely worth it to get the 5 days Unlimited JR even if just for the Osaka-Tokyo and then back. Just make sure the JR pass is still active for your shinkansen journey. You can buy the Unlimited JR Pass here

• May 23, 2023

Hi Mel, Planning to self drive in kansai & gifu prefectures and will be staying 2 nights in osaka. It is difficult to drive around and for car parking in osaka? Hope to hear from you soon. Thank you. Keong ( singapore )

Hey Keong, driving in Osaka is pretty similar to Singapore – it’s a big city so if you’re used to Singapore you should be fine. Parking is a little expensive in Japan but it depends where you are. If you are in the town area then it will get pretty expensive but if you’re in the outskirts then it might be free.

• April 7, 2023

Hi Can share the day itinerary for Osaka and Kyoto ? Can’t figure out where to start from day trip in Kyoto Also can’t plan the Osaka day trip Thanks for sharing

• March 12, 2023

Dear Melissa. I love what you have written. Mostly travel writers focus on putting up good pictures. I found your photos honest, true and look a lot of fun. Of course, the writing is also witty. Kudos 🙂

• March 13, 2023

Thanks Sahana!

• March 9, 2023

hi Melissa, From Singapore to Osaka, if my flight land at 9:35pm. it is ok? will there be train to city? what the train operation timing? i plan to stay 10 days in Osaka/stay in Osaka and move around. i need the wide area(5 days ) or jr-west kansai pass(4days)? what the different?

Hey John, the trains generally stop around midnight in Japan.

• January 11, 2023

Dear Melissa, I came across your blog by accident. You are very informative and insightful. My husband and I (in our 50s) are planning to visit Osaka in October 2023. Would greatly appreciate if you could help with planning our itinerary. We will fly into and out from Osaka. We have about 8-10 days of holiday. Osaka and Kyoto are the main places of interest at the moment for us. Please advise and revert. Thank you.

• November 22, 2022

Dear Melissa My friend and i are planning a 1 week trip from 12 Dec- 19Dec.to Western Japan with Osaka and Kyoto in mind as the places to go among others. This is our 1st time traveling to Japan. We will be flying in at about 3pm and out Kansai Airport at around 6pm flights. Any suggested itinerary? 12 Dec Kansai Airport to Kyoto via train JR pass

12 Dec – 15 Dec * Kyoto (book stay)

13 Dec Take the train from Kyoto to Hiroshima for a day trip. 1 day stay (Miyajima Island/Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park) ** or any other suggestions for places or city instead of Hiroshima

14 Dec Take train back to Kyoto (Day trip to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest)

16 Dec Leave Kyoto via train to Osaka

16 Dec – 19 Dec Osaka (book stay) (Osaka Castle, Dotonbori/Shinsaibashi (Shisaibushi-Suji), Tempozan (Ferris wheel, Osaka Aquarium), Universal Studios Japan), Shinsekai, Food Art Gallery(JTRRD Cafe), Pokemon Cafe

19 Dec Checkout/to Kansai Airport for evening flight

How about trains/transportation..should we just get the JR pass. Can we use the JR pass to take the Shinkansen)? Would love to experience the bullet train. 🙂 Any recommendation for accommodation which is cost saving? My colleague said that despite the places to stay is cheaper away from central Osaka, it is far from the train station and the train fares are expensive.

Do you think the suggested itinerary is ok or ambitious. Do you have any suggestion. We are unsure. Would really appreciate your help and advice.

Looking forward to hear from you the soonest possible so that we can plan and make the necessary bookings/reservations.

• October 27, 2022

Hi Which area in Osaka would you recommend for small kids?

• January 10, 2020

Hi Melissa!

I’ll be visiting and staying in Osaka during early Oct 2020 for 5 days and want to do day trips to Kyoto, Nara and Kobe! Should I get both the JR Kansai wide pass as well as the Haruka + ICOCA card? Or will the Haruka + ICOCA card be enough for me to do day trips to Kyoto, Nara and Kobe?

Thank you, Ricky

Hey Ricky, if you are ok with taking local trains (usually slightly slower and no booked seats) then you’re fine with just the Haruka + ICOCA card. You can use ICOCA card to do the local travels. Whether it would be cheaper or not depends on how often you’ll be taking JR trains during the day, since the JR pass can also be used on local JR trains.

• July 28, 2019

Dear Melissa,

I am thinking to doing Tokyo and Osaka (2 of us). In terms of time and costs, what will be your recommendation: fly into Tokyo and fly out from Osaka or the other way round? of should I just fly in/out from Tokyo?

thank you, Tham

i think depends on whether you are getting a JR pass and whether the Osaka – Tokyo train portion is covered or not. Also depends on the price difference between flying out of Tokyo vs Osaka. I personally would just fly out of Osaka to be more efficient!

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EPIC Osaka 2-day itinerary: Perfect for first-timers (2024 edition)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: May 4, 2024

Here is a 2-day Osaka itinerary to explore this lively metropolis. With 19 million inhabitants, Osaka is Japan’s second-largest city.

We recommend staying in Osaka for 2 days because two days are enough to see the main sights of the city without being too rushed.

In addition to the Osaka 2-day sample itinerary, we also share the best time to visit Osaka, how to get to Osaka, tips for two days in Osaka, and the best place to stay in Osaka. 

We also suggest some day trips in case you will be staying longer than 2 days.

Keep on reading and have fun exploring Osaka. 

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Japan Essentials 

• We almost always find the best flights to Tokyo and Osaka on Momondo .  It may be worthwhile to compare these with Skyscanner and a new but promising flight aggregator, WayAway .
• Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your  Japan travel SIM  or  portable WiFi device  in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.

Osaka Essentials 

• If you are planning on visiting many tourist sites,  the Osaka amazing pass  might be something for you. If you will be visiting both Osaka and Kyoto, take a look at  the Kyoto-Osaka sightseeing pass. 
• One of the best ways to start your visit to Osaka is  by making a private walking tour.  
• Check out this award-winning backstreet tour if you want to learn more about Osaka’s off-the-beaten-path destinations ( red light district, former ghetto, …). Note that this tour is less suited for children.
• Osaka is also famous for its nightlife. Find out why by  joining this cheap nightlife tour.
• Foodies should check out this amazing Osaka Food Tour. For an overview of more amazing food tours in Osaka, click here.
• Osaka has a  lot of hotels.  Here is a list of the  coolest Osaka hotels.  If this is a family trip, or if you’re traveling with a bunch of friends, it may be cheaper to stay in one of these nice Airbnbs. For those looking for an Osaka hotel with an onsen, click here.
• Best Ryokan in Osaka
• Best Ryokan in Osaka with private onsen  

Tip: Be sure to become a member of our  Japan Travel Planning and Tips Facebook group.  The purpose of this group is to help you plan an amazing vacation to Japan.  You can ask questions and exchange tips with fellow travelers.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the things to see and to do in Japan? Can’t get a hold of Japan’s complex train system? Don’t worry! Check out our  Japan travel planner. This document will help you plan a stress-free trip to the land of the rising sun.

In a hurry? Here we share an overview of our Osaka itinerary

If you don’t have time to read through the full Osaka two-day itinerary,  use this overview to get an idea of the things to do each day and save it for later.

• Day 1: Visit Osaka castle, stroll through Nishinomaru Garden, grab a bite in the Kuromon Ichiba Market, feel the vibe of Japan in Namba, and go shopping in Shinsaibashi.
• Day 2:  Visit Osaka Aquarium, enjoy the views from the Ferris wheel, get up the roof of Osaka station and the Umeda sky building, go back in time in Shinsekai district and visit Tsutenkatu Tower.

If you have 3 days in Osaka: 

• Day 3: Make a day trip to Nara or Himeji or visit Universal Studios Japan.

In case you only have 1 day in Osaka you can choose to focus on the first day of this itinerary or you can have a look at our special 1-day Osaka itinerary .

2 days in Osaka

Osaka itinerary 2 days: day 1, feel like a samurai in osaka castle.

Osaka Castle is a good starting point for your 2-day itinerary in Osaka. There are still a lot of Samurai castles everywhere throughout Japan. 

You should visit at least one and unless you’re very much into Japanese culture and history one may be enough as they’re all very much alike. Still, they are imposing structures and we visited at least 3 during our first trip to Japan.

The castle in Osaka is a reconstruction, as are most of the castles you find in Japan today.

If you want to visit an original castle you can do a side trip to Himeji.  The trip only takes 30 minutes with the Shinkansen.

Osaka castle was originally constructed in 1583 and completely destroyed in a battle in 1615. It was rebuilt but bad luck strikes again several years later when the main castle tower was struck by lightning in 1665. 

The whole castle burned down as a result. It took until 1931 before one decided to rebuild the castle. 

The current castle is a ferroconcrete reconstruction of the original one that used to be here several years ago.

It houses an informative museum about the castle’s history and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Samurai who lived in this castle and has been one of the most powerful men in Japan in his era.  

Osaka castle is very popular and therefore often crowded even on weekdays, therefore we recommend visiting the castle early morning.

Several cherry trees around the castle make this a nice place to relax during the cherry blossom season.  Access to the grounds around the castle is free with the exception of the Nishinomaru garden.

Persons with reduced mobility will appreciate that they don’t need to climb the steep flight of stairs anymore.  They can now use the elevator instead.

How to get there :

The nearest subway station is Tanimachi Yonchome Station.   You can get there with both the Tanimachi Subway Line and the Chuo Subway Line.

If you come by train you need to head to the Osakajokoen station which is conveniently located on the Osaka loop line served by JR.

Stroll through Nishinomaru Garden 

We are continuing our 2 days in Osaka by strolling around Nishinomaru.

This small garden adjacent to the Osaka castle  is worth a visit during the Sakura season.   It’s Osaka’s most popular hanami spot. 

Hanami means doing a picnic underneath the cherry trees.

The garden contains 600 cherry blossom trees and it’s exceptionally beautiful when they are blooming during spring.

It’s also fun to see how the Japanese are celebrating the yearly Sakura season with their friends and family.  We’ve never before seen such large crowds of people enjoying picnics in the park.

During the Sakura season, the Nishinomaru garden can also be visited after sunset.  The opening hours are extended until 9 pm and the trees are illuminated from 6 pm.

Although some will say it is not as spectacular, or not as unique as the Sakura, the cherry trees turn beautifully red, yellow, pink, brown, and orange in autumn which makes this season another good moment to visit the park.

How to get there:

The nearest  subway station  is  Tanimachi Yonchome Station.   You can get there with both the Tanimachi Subway Line and the Chuo Subway Line.

If you  come by train  you need to head to the Osakajokoen station which is conveniently located on the Osaka loop line served by JR.

More cherry-blossom eye candy : We couldn’t get enough of the beautiful cherry blossoms.

If you feel the same you should make a small detour to the nearby Kema Sakuranomiya Park. 

A pedestrian bridge takes you to a waterfront promenade along the O river.  Close to 5000 cherry trees line this boardwalk.  As you stroll along the boardwalk you will also get great panoramas of the city’s skyline.

During the Sakura season, the water buses such as the aqua liner will also offer special Sakura cruises that take you along the park.

Grab a bite in the Kuromon Ichiba Market

Kuromon Ichiba Market , nicknamed Osaka’s kitchen, is an indoor marketplace that has been around for more than 150 years.

Vendors sell everything from rare fruits to vegetables, meat, and fresh seafood. Inside the market, there are several restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local dishes like Takoyaki ( a ball-shaped snack typically filled with diced octopus) and okonomiyaki ( an Osaka favorite, a sort of pancake made with egg and flour).

Best things to do in Osaka

Everything is sold in small servings so you can taste more than one dish. It’s an excellent place to wander around and to try different Japanese specialties.

The closest metro station is  Nippombashi Station.  From this station take Exit 2, and walk for about 2 minutes, veering to the left, and you’ll be at the market.

The fastest option from Osaka Castle would be to first take the Tanimachi line at Tanimachiyonchome station and change for the Sen-Nichimae line at Tanimachikyuchome station.

The closest JR station is JR Namba station, it’s the terminal of the Yamatoji line.  Leaving Osaka Castle you take the JR Loop Line in Osakajokoen station towards Tennoji station.  You can change trains in Tennoji station or any of the subsequent stations. From Tennoji station onwards until Imamiya Station both trains stop in all stations.

Get a real sense of the Japanese vibe in Namba 

The Namba district is alive day and night and it’s a popular shopping and entertainment district.  The main street Dotonbori is a lovely place to stroll and feel the (crazy) vibe of Japan. 

The district is especially impressive at night when hundreds of neon lights and billboards illuminate the streets. It is one of the famous landmarks of Japan.

It’s also a good place to stay in Osaka if you like to stay in a place that’s very vibrant and has a good and broad selection of bars, restaurants, and other nightlife.

Foodies should definitely take a look at these 9 best restaurants in Osaka for cheap eats. A lot of them can be found near Dotonbori.

How to get there : The Namba district is just a 10-minute walk from the Kuromon Ichiba market.

The nearest subway station  is Namba station.  You can choose from the Midosuji line, Sen-Nichimae line or Yotsubashi line to get here.

Shop till you drop in the Shinsaibashi shopping Area

Shinsaibashi is right next to Namba’s famous Dotonbori. 

It is one of the most visited and fastest-growing shopping areas in Osaka with lots of high-end stores such as Chanel and Cartier.

But no worries, If you do not have a well-stocked wallet, you can also score plenty of bargains or find 100 yen shops where you can buy your souvenirs.

Even if you don’t want to buy anything it is a nice place to do some window shopping and admire the expensive handbags, handmade jewelry, kimono, and yukatas. 

The main street of the Shinsaibashi shopping area is t he Shinsaibashi-suji street, a covered pedestrian street, that is almost 2 kilometers in length. It starts at the world-famous Dotonbori bridge and runs the full length of the Shinsaibashi district.

Besides shops, there’re also a lot of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. 

Tip: If you are a foodie and want to discover Osaka’s food scene, then this Osaka Food Tour might be something for you.

The main street starts right at the Dotonbori bridge and runs all the way up to the Shinsaibashi subway station . The Midsosuji and the Nagahoritsurumiryokuchi trains stop at this station.

The nearest subway station to the Dotonbori bridge is Namba station. You can choose from the Midosuji line, Sen-Nichimae line, or Yotsubashi line to get here.

The closest JR station to the Dotonbori bridge is JR Namba station, it’s the terminal of the Yamatoji line.

2 day Osaka itinerary: Day 2

Admire colorful fish at the osaka aquarium kaiyukan.

We start the second day of our Osaka two days itinerary at the Osaka Aquarium. The Osaka Aquarium is one of the   largest public aquariums in the world.

The aquarium is organized into 15 tanks each representing different habitats around the Pacific Rim.

The main attraction of the Osaka aquarium is a pair of gigantic whale sharks which can be seen in the central tank, representing the Pacific Ocean.

The Osaka Aquarium is located at Osakako Station on the Chuo subway line. (take exit 1)

Enjoy panoramic views from Tempozan Ferris Wheel

A 5-minute walk from the Osakako subway station, and steps away from the Kaiyukan aquarium you will find the Tempozan Ferris Wheel.

This was once the world’s largest wheel and is still in the TOP 25 today. Its diameter spans 100 meters and it is 112.5m high.  It holds 60 cars, each of which can accommodate up to eight passengers. 

A ride takes about 15 minutes and offers panoramic views of the bay and Osaka’s skyscrapers.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel is located at Osakako Station on the Chuo subway line. (take exit 1 or 2)

Get up to the roof of the Osaka station

The former station was completely rebuilt and reopened in 2011 as Osaka Station City.  The new construction is much more than just a station, it also houses shops, a sports club, a movie theatre, and travelers can choose from a wide range of restaurants to satisfy their hunger before they hop on board.

The station consists of 2 buildings that are on either side of the tracks. 

Both buildings have a rooftop terrace, in the Northern building the terrace is on the 10th and 11th floor and it is called the Healing Garden.

This terrace offers nice views on the Umeda Sky building. Further up, but only reachable by stairs, is a vegetable and fruit garden.

The Southern building houses the terrace, called the Sun Plaza, on the 15th, 16th, and 17th floors.

This is a nice plaza to take a break while you enjoy the view of the skyscrapers in the Umeda district.

Osaka station is the main JR hub in central Osaka.  7 JR lines connect this station to the rest of Japan including the Osaka loop line, the Hida line, and the Hamakaze line.  

The closest subway station is Umeda Station on the Midosuji line.   To reach Osaka Station from the Osaka Bay Area you first take the Chuo line until Hommachi station where you change for the Midosuji line.

See the city from above at the Umeda sky building

One of the best ways to see the city from above is from the Umeda Sky Building. The futuristic building is only a 10-minute walk from Osaka station.  

 The 173-meter tall construction consists of two towers that are connected with each other by the “Floating Garden Observatory” on the 39th floor.

From here you will have 360-degree views of the city through its windows and from the open-air deck.

At night the views are quite spectacular

Also on the 39th floor are a Chinese restaurant and a cocktail bar called Stardust.  On the 1st basement floor, you will find Takimi Koji, a food alley of over 20 eateries, that replicates a nostalgic townscape of the Showa period.  

Osaka station , the main JR hub in central Osaka, is the closest JR station.  7 JR lines stop at this station including the Osaka loop line, the Hida line, and the Hamakaze line.  

The closest subway station is Umeda Station on the Midosuji line.

Go back in time in the Shinsekai district and visit Tsutenkaku Tower

The Shinsekai area was developed before the war and remained largely untouched afterward.

If you want to experience a truly retro Osaka atmosphere, this is your go-to spot.

The Janjan Yokocho alley, officially Nanyo-Dori, is one of the main shopping arcades that has recently regained some of its old glory.

Locals love the street for the broad selection of so-called B-grade gourmet restaurants that serve flavor-rich dishes at inexpensive prices.

Shinsekai is also where you find   Spa World , a huge bath complex with a large number of onsen from around the world which are to be enjoyed naked and gender-separated.  

During uneven months the men get to enjoy the Asian-styled rooms and the women the European-styled rooms.  During even months the roles are reversed. 

There is also a family section with several water slides, pools and jacuzzis so don’t forget your swimsuit!

Tsutenkaku Tower, also known as the Eiffel Tower of Osaka, is 103 meters high and one of the symbols of Osaka. Tsutenkaku Tower has three observation decks.  The two themed indoor observation decks are at 84m and 87.5m respectively. There’s a third outdoor observation deck at 94.5m. This deck also has a small catwalk with a see-through floor extending over the edge of the tower.

All of the observation decks offer beautiful 360-degree views and particularly nice vistas of Tennoji park and Tennoji Zoo. 

At the end of your visit, you can exit the tower in style thanks to the latest edition, the tower slider, a 60-meter-long slide that starts at the tower’s third floor.

The standard ticket gives access to the inside observation platforms.  Both the outside platform and the tower slider require an additional ticket.

With your Osaka Amazing Pass you have free access to the inside observation platforms and discounts on the other attractions.

How to get there: 

The nearest subway stations are Dobutsuen-Mae station in the South and Ebisucho station in the North.  The first is served by the Midosuji line and Sakaisuji line, the latter by the Sakaisuji line.

The closest JR station is Shin-Imamiya on the Osaka loop line and Yamatoji line.

To get here from the Umeda Sky building you can either take the JR Loop line at Osaka station towards Shin-Imamiya or the Midosuji subway at Umeda station.

Other Highlights of Osaka

If you have more than 2 days we recommend a day trip to either Nara or Himeji or you might opt for a day of thrills and fun in Universal Studios.

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios is a great place to come with kids but you don’t need to have children to enjoy this theme park. 

There is a good amount of thrill rides for both children as well as adults. 

The Harry Potter section is done with such an eye for detail that you might think that you accidentally ended up in the movie itself.

The park itself is not that large but it is often very crowded.  Popular attractions often have waiting lines of +2 hours. 

If you want to be able to do all the rides in 1 day we highly recommend to pay the extra fee for the Express Passes.   The express passes need to be bought separately from the entry tickets. A limited number of express passes is available for each day so these may be sold out on the day itself.

Take t he JR Osaka Loop Line towards  Nishikujo Station and switch to the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal-city Station.  Once you exit the train at Universal-city station you just need to follow the crowds through the shops to the entrance of the park.

Day trip to Nara

If you have more time in Osaka a day trip to Nara which is only about a 35-minute train ride away is highly recommended.

Nara was the original capital of Japan but once Buddhism became too powerful in the country the government decided to move it.  You can still see traces of this as Nara is literally littered with temples.

The city is relatively small and most of the main sights can be covered on foot.

A highlight of your day trip is a visit to the  Todaiji Temple which is the largest wooden building in the world.  It is a popular UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the building, you will find a large bronze, Buddha.

Other highlights are the Nandaimon gate, Nigatsu-do, Kasuga Taisha, and Kofuku-ji.

You will probably also meet some deer as they roam freely through Nara and they will approach you unabashedly to beg for cookies.

If you have a Japan Rail pass, you can use the  JR Yamatoji line. The trajectory is completely covered by the Japan Rail Pass, as well as the Kansai area pass, and takes about 50 minutes.

If you don’t have a JR Pass you might prefer the Kintetsu Nara Line.  The Rapid Express Kintetsu train reaches Nara in only 39 minutes and the Kintetsu station is more centrally located in Nara.

Kintetsu has a faster limited express train but it costs twice as much and it only saves you 5 minutes.

The Kintetsu trains leave from Osaka Namba station.

Tickets for the JR trains ( without having the JR pass) as well as the Kintetsu trains are 810 yen.

Day Trip to Himeji

The prime landmark of Himeji is the magnificent castle that towers above the city.  The castle is a UNESCO world heritage site and is one of Japan’s most impressive original castles that can still be visited. 

Next to the castle is a well-maintained Japanese-style garden.

Mount Shosha is located at the city’s border and is home to the  Engyo-ji Temple.  The temple’s buildings are spread across the densely forested top of the mountain. A fairly strenuous path leads up the mountain to the temple.

Otherwise, the ropeway offers a quicker and less exhausting alternative.

The temple has a rich history of over 1,000 years.  The impressive wooden buildings, beautiful scenery, and absence of any modern elements have attracted many filming crews. 

The temple is often featured in both national and international movies.  The most famous movie is probably “the last samurai”.

The temple has always been popular amongst locals and its popularity amongst foreign tourists has grown since it was featured in “the last samurai”.

You can use both regular JR trains as well as the Shinkansen. 

Regular JR trains leave from Osaka station and take about one hour to reach Himeji.

The one-way fare is 1520 yen but they are covered by the Japan Rail pass as well as the Kansai Area Pass.

The Shinkansen leave from Shin-Osaka station and reach Himeji in only 40 minutes.

The one-way fare for the Shinkansen is 3820 yen but the Sakura, Hikari, and Kodama trains are covered by the Japan Rail Pass and the Kansai Wide Area Pass.

Learn to cook Japanese with a cooking class

One of the highlights of our Osaka trip was the cooking class we followed. We had so much fun learning to cook typical Japanese dishes such as Ramen and Gyozas.

You can read more about it here. 

What is the best time to visit Osaka?

Osaka can be visited all year round because the weather is quite moderate but ideally, we would recommend visiting Osaka during spring (March-May) or fall (October-November) .

Read on to learn the pros and cons of each season if these two periods don’t work for you.

In spring everything starts to bloom and being in Osaka during the cherry blossom (Sakura) period is an unforgettable experience.

Keep in mind that spring is also the most touristy and therefore most expensive season.

The Sakura not only draws tourists from all over the world but also Japanese go crazy over this yearly event.  At lunchtime and during the weekends they head into the parks en masse to picnic and take selfies. 

It’s lovely to see the Sakura but being a witness to the enthusiasm of the Japanese was what really made our experience complete.

If this is your first visit to Japan, we recommend reading our 15 tips before traveling to Japan.

Although April and May are very good months to travel late April and early May also mark the “Golden Week”, a week with 4 Japanese holidays in which many Japanese take a local trip. It may, therefore, be very busy during this period. 

The end of the golden week announces a less touristy period. 

The climate is still very enjoyable with many sunny days. 

Fewer crowds mean a better experience and shorter queues in many of Osaka’s top attractions.

Until the end of June, it is still a perfect time to discover Osaka.

Towards the end of June, the rainy season starts and it starts to become hot and humid. 

The rainy season usually goes from mid-June to late July.

Whilst it usually does not rain every day we wouldn’t recommend visiting Osaka during this period if you’re not used to a hot and humid climate.

Fall is another excellent period to visit Osaka. 

In general, you will experience a mild climate. 

The colorful autumn foliage makes the various parks spread across Osaka very photogenic although you need to head into the national parks or the mountains to fully appreciate the beauty of this season.

The autumn foliage attracts many tourists but the crowds are not nearly as massive as during the Sakura season.

Winter (December – February) in Osaka is cold but not too cold to travel.

It’s a great time to visit Osaka if you don’t like the crowds.

How to get to Osaka?

How to find cheap tickets to osaka.

The best websites to find cheap flights to Osaka are Momondo  and  Skyscanner .  Both are flight aggregators that compare several hundreds of booking sites and give you an overview of the best flights and the cheapest online travel agents to book them. 

Momondo and Skyscanner are both very good at finding good deals, of the two, Momondo is probably the one with the most intuitive user interface.

Read our full review about 10 booking sites here. 

Osaka has 2 international airports, Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka International Airport (better known as Itami; ITM).

Kansai International Airport

Kansai International Airport is Osaka’s international airport and lies about 37 kilometers southwest of downtown Osaka. 

It also serves some domestic flights from other parts of Japan.

It’s well connected to Osaka by train, limousine buses, and taxis.

Japan Rail Pass

If you have a Japan Rail Pass , the fastest, cheapest, and easiest way to get to Osaka is with the JR Haruka airport express.

This airport express train is free for holders of a JR pass and offers direct access to the major train stations of Tennoji and Shin-Osaka.

The train offers easy transfers to, amongst others, the Osaka loop line, the Midosuji subway line, and the Shinkansen.

The Rapi:t train

If you don’t have a Japan Rail Pass, you might prefer the  Rapi:t airport express  operated by the private Nankai Line. 

The Rapi:t train is a limited express train that runs between the airport and Namba station. It is somewhat slower but also cheaper compared to the JR Haruka. 

The Rapi:t train is certainly a good choice if you’re staying near Namba, according to us one of the best places to stay in Osaka.

In Namba, you can transfer to the Midosuji, Sennichimae, or Yotsubashi subway lines to reach other destinations in Osaka. 

JR West offers a Haruka airport express/Icoca combination ticket that is a great deal to save money.

We have more information about this in the Osaka money-saving tips below. 

Rapi:t tickets are also sold online at discounted rates  and the Yokoso! ticket can be interesting as it combines the Rapi:t train with discounts on attractions and free unlimited use of subway, tram, and city-busses for one day. 

There’s more info about the Yokoso ticket in the Osaka money-saving chapter  below.

Limousine bus

If you aren’t staying near Tennoji, Shin-Osaka, or Namba , or if you have a lot of luggage and don’t want to take the subway, taking a limousine bus  might be a better option. The buses run along three routes, stopping at popular hotels and destinations in Osaka and Kyoto.

You can find the routes and purchase the bus ticket here with Klook: Limousine bus

The most comfortable option of all would be  a shared or private transfer.   If you’re not looking forward to train, subway or bus rides in your first hours in Osaka you could book this service and your driver would be waiting for you in the arrivals hall of the airport.  

More information and bookings:

Shared transfer

Private Transfer

You could also take a taxi from KIX to Osaka, but we wouldn’t recommend it because it’s quite expensive.  A ride to Osaka’s center will cost approximately €90.

Osaka International Airport

Osaka International Airport or Itami is Osaka’s domestic airport.  Despite its name, it handles no international flights. It lies about 11 kilometers north of central Osaka.

Itami is not as good connected as KIX.  If you take the Osaka Monorail you will most probably need to change to another train or subway.  The monorail doesn’t stop at any of the major stations or near any of the major tourist sights.

Because you need to switch trains we would rather recommend  the Osaka Airport Limousine bus if you have a lot of luggage.   The journey from the airport to central Osaka costs 650 JPY and takes about 30 minutes.

An even more comfortable way is to take  a shared transfer or private transfer .

Click here to get more information about these transfers:

Shared Transfer

You could also take a regular private taxi. The ride will take around 25 minutes and will cost around Y5000.

The high-speed Shinkansen or “bullet train” provides the fastest transport service between Tokyo and Osaka. 

If you have a JR Pass , you can ride the Hikari Shinkansen at no additional cost. The journey from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station takes 3h. The Nozomi Shinkansen is faster and rides more frequently but is not covered by your JR Pass. 

The Kodama Shinkansen is also covered by the JR pass but is slower than the Hikari Shinkansen.

If you do not have a Japan Rail Pass then the fare will be  13,870 yen  one way with an unreserved seat. 

The easiest and fastest way to get from Kyoto to Osaka is by train.  

There are several options depending on your location in Kyoto and your destination in Osaka.

Below is how to reach Shin-Osaka station and Osaka station. These are the major transportation hubs In Osaka. Both stations offer transfers to several other trains and the ability to easily reach places all over Osaka.

The most efficient Kyoto 2 day itinerary  and The best things to do in Kyoto at night. 

Shin-Osaka Station

The high-speed Shinkansen will get you from Kyoto Station to Shin-Osaka Station in 12 minutes for 1440 yen.

This is the fastest and most comfortable route into Osaka and might be worthwhile  if you have a  Japan Rail Pass   to cover the cost.

If you don’t have a JR pass, you can also opt for a cheaper alternative. 

The JR Kyoto line takes 23 minutes to reach Shin-Osaka station from Kyoto. 

The fare for this service is 570 yen.

Osaka station

If you want to go to Osaka station, you can take the Special Rapid Train on the JR Kyoto line. This train will get you to Osaka station in about 30 minutes for 570 yen.

How to get around Osaka

We visited Osaka as part of a 3-week itinerary throughout Japan.  We owned a JR Pass and used the JR trains to get around Osaka.

Osaka has a very extensive public transportation system and with either the JR trains or the subway you will be able to quickly get near all major sights and attractions.

The cheapest and most efficient way to use the metro is with an Osaka Metro Pass . You get unlimited rides on the Osaka Metro Lines as well as the city bus. In addition, you enjoy a discount at 30 popular tourist sights including the Osaka Castle, the Umeda Sky Building, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, and the Shitennoji Temple. You can buy this pass for 1 or 2 days.

The Osaka Amazing Pass makes traveling around Osaka a breeze. It covers rides on the Osaka Metro, several private train lines (excluding the JR lines), and most city buses. The pass also offers free access to over 50 popular tourist attractions and discounts at several more. This is the best pass for those who are serious about discovering everything that Osaka has to offer.

Check prices and availability:

Osaka Amazing Pass

Osaka Metro Pass

Travel Insurance for Japan

Did you already think about travel insurance?  Accidents happen when you least expect them.

Drawing up a travel insurance policy that covers theft, damage and all kinds of medical expenses may seem expensive at first but it can potentially save you a significant sum, significantly more than the small insurance fee. 

The good news is that it’s never too late to get cover with HeyMondo and SafetyWing , you can even get their travel insurance online while you’re traveling.

Get a free quote:

or read our  in-depth post with everything you need to know about Japan travel insurance. 

Osaka money-saving tips

When traveling around Osaka, you can choose from a variety of discount tickets. Here we list the most important ones.

Osaka Amazing Pass 

The Osaka Amazing Pass is a one-day or 2-day pass for tourists.

With the pass, you get unlimited use of the Osaka subway, tramway, and bus network.  It also gives you free entry to more than 50 of Osaka’s top tourist attractions such as the Osaka Castle, Osaka Zoo, the Umeda Observatory, and the Nagai Botanical Gardens.

You can also take a free trip on the famous Tombori River with a classic river cruise or a Tombori River jazz boat tour.

The guidebook that comes with the pass includes two pages with extra coupons for discounts at various other attractions, restaurants, and shops.

This is the perfect pass if you  plan on visiting a lot of the included tourist sites.    The website  lists the normal entry price of the attractions so you can see if and how much you will save with this pass.

Click here for more information or to buy your Osaka Amazing Pass: Osaka Amazing Pass

Osaka Metro Pass for 1 or 2 days

This pass gives you unlimited and fast travel around Osaka on Osaka Metro-operated city buses and subways and gives a discount to   30 famous sightseeing facilities such as Osaka Castle, the Umeda sky building, the Tsutenkaku Tower, etc.

A very cheap option if you plan on  using public transportation a lot and don’t have a Japan Rail Pass.

This pass is strictly only available to foreign tourists with short-stay entry status.  You will need to present your passport when you pick up your pass at the airport.

Read more information or buy your pass here: Osaka Metro Pass

Yokoso! Osaka Ticket

Note that the pass is not available at the moment

This ticket includes a Nankai Electric Railway Train ticket valid on the Rapi:t train, a discount at 31 tourist spots , and free unlimited use of the subway, tramway, and city buses for one day. 

Some of the popular attractions that offer a discount are the Osaka Castle, the Nishinomaru garden, the Shitennõ-ji temple, the Umeda Sky building observatory, and the Tsutenkaku tower.

This pass is an interesting option to  get from the airport to the city if you don’t have a JR Pass.   The ticket for the rapi:t train itself costs 1,130 yen.  If you do 2 subway rides and visit one of the sights you have saved with this pass.

More information and bookings: Yokoso Osaka Ticket

As our 2-day itinerary focuses on the sights within Osaka’s city limits the Osaka Amazing or Osaka Unlimited pass are probably the best options.

But for the sake of those who have more time in Osaka and want to do some side trips to Nara, Himeji, Hiroshima, Takayama, or Kanazawa we mention the JR Passes for completeness.

The Kansai area pass is the most popular pass. It covers Himeji, Nara, Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto. This pass is also valid on the Haruka express so you can use this pass to get from the airport to the city.

This pass is available for periods ranging from 1 day to 4 days.  The  other variants  can only be bought for longer periods starting at 5 days.

Click here to get more information or to buy your JR West Pass: JR WEST Kansai PASS

To visit Hiroshima you would need the Kansai – Hiroshima pass. Trips to Takayama and Kanazawa are included in the Kansai – Hokuriku pass.

Read here  what you can do in Hiroshima.

ICOCA & Haruka discount ticket

This combi ticket is a combination of a rechargeable IC Card and a discounted ticket for the Haruka express train that connects Kansai airport with Osaka.  The IC Card comes pre-charged with 1,500 yen.  This credit can be used on JR trains, the subway, buses, and several private railways.

This ticket can only be bought at the JR desks at the airport.

If you already hold an ICOCA card you can buy the discounted Haruka train tickets only.  You just need to show your ICOCA card at the JR desks at the airport.

Best Osaka Organized Tours

Here is an overview of the best-organized tours in Osaka.

  An organized tour can save you a considerable amount of time and, moreover, the tour guide will enlighten you about the different sights you visit.

We partnered up with GetYourGuide and Viator for these activities. 

We love both because they’re flexible.  Sometimes your plans change last minute and then you want to be able to cancel your tickets and get your money back.  It’s also good to know that GetYourGuide and Viator have your back when the local tour operator doesn’t show up or cancels your trip.

GetYourGuide and Viator are reliable platforms where you can book thousands of tours anywhere in the world.  We selected 3 excellent tours in Osaka just for you.

Deep backstreet Osaka tour

This award-winning tour offered by Viator shows you the historic districts and local traditions of Osaka.

You will learn a lot about Osaka and Japan in general and you will also have the chance to try delicious food.

The guide has in-depth knowledge about the area and is also very entertaining.

Highly recommended if you want to get a glimpse of the backstreets of Osaka.

Less suitable for children.

Check prices and availability: Deep backstreet Osaka tour

Discover Osaka with a private walking tour

One of the best ways to start your visit to Osaka is by  making a private walking tour with a local host.  

Nothing is more fun than getting a first impression of this fantastic city from somebody who lives here.

The local guide will tailor the tour to your taste.

It’s also a great opportunity to ask insider tips about where to eat, what to do besides Osaka highlights, and more. You can book this tour with GetYourGuide.

More information and booking: Private Walking Tour

Osaka food tour

This small-group tour offered by Viator ( maximum of 8 people) takes you to the backstreets of Shinsekai.

Here you have the chance to visit 5 eateries and try 10 local dishes such as kitsune udon ( Japanese Udon soup), gyoza ( dumplings), takoyaki ( octopus dumplings), etc.

There are also 2 drinks (one alcoholic and one nonalcoholic) included in the tour.

This food tour takes you off the beaten path. Guests also love the fantastic guides.

This is the perfect tour if you want to visit Osaka’s most famous areas at night and learn more about Osaka history and culture.

More information and booking: Osaka Food Tour

Where to stay in Osaka

For first-time visitors, the best place to stay in Osaka is somewhere in Central Osaka (Kita, Minami, or Honmachi).

This will save you a lot of time on trains and subways that can be better spent exploring the many sights Osaka has to offer. 

Kita is the absolute favorite if you fancy some day trips to nearby places like Nara. 

You will be able to leave directly from Osaka station without the need to take the subway first.

Here we share a good hotel in that area.

ANA Crowne Plaza Osaka

This  Crowne Plaza  hotel is relatively close to several subway stations, they also offer a free shuttle service.

The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and quiet. Guests also love the delicious breakfast that you can enjoy while admiring the view over the river.

More information and booking:

Booking.com

Looking for a place to stay in Osaka? We’ve got you covered:

• The best places to stay in Osaka . Info about the various wards with public transportation maps
• A self-curated list of cool hotels in Osaka
• If you are looking for a more traditional stay, check out this list of ryokans in Osaka
• A number of highly-rated self-catered apartments in Osaka

The 2 days we spent in Osaka were an absolute thrill!   The city has quaint charmful districts like Shinsekai as well as vibrant areas such as Namba.  Every place we visited showed us another aspect of this versatile city.

After 2 days you probably won’t have enough of this city, at least we didn’t, but there are so many sites around the city that are worth exploring as well. For a list of Osaka’s hidden gems, click here.

We enjoyed Nara and the incredible tranquility that this place radiates.

If you can’t get enough of the robust impressive castles you should head to Himeji , which may be Japan’s best-preserved castle.

Osaka was our number 1 city in Japan.  If you love this city as much as we do you can also opt to stay in Osaka while you visit Kyoto.  The 2 cities are just a 30-minute train ride away.

Japan travel tips

Tips when traveling to Japan:

We took a little bit of cash with us but most things we paid with our credit card. Expenses abroad can be seriously inflated by fees from your bank or credit card.  That’s why I’m a huge fan of my N26 account.   The account is available to most EU residents. The  checking account is free as well as the associated Mastercard and there’s no exchange rate provision when you use the card for payments abroad.  There’s a 1,7% exchange rate provision when you withdraw money abroad but even that is free with the premium Black Mastercard.

The app is another great feature of the card, you can follow your expenses in real-time and instantly block your card if you see any signs of fraud.

A local SIM card or pocket WiFi device comes in handy. We have often used Google Maps to find our way around major cities. If you want to purchase a local SIM card, you can find our detailed post here. If you want to compare the different WiFI devices you can rent in Japan, click here. 

When you’re traveling by train it’s also a good idea to forward your baggage.  You can read these tips and much more in our separate article about traveling to Japan for the first time .

We traveled around Japan by train and could save a few bucks by buying a Japan Rail Pass in advance.

Get more information on the Japan Railpass here: Japan Railpass

Or  read this article in which we describe how you can find out whether you would also benefit from a Japan Rail Pass .

Wondering what to wear in Japan? Take a look at our complete Japan packing list. 

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Osaka amazing pass: your gateway to osaka.

Today many cities across Japan have discount schemes. However few have the range, the variety or the value for money of the Osaka Amazing Pass.

So, join us today dear reader, as we look at this incredible offer in more detail, and give you some ideas as to how to best use it on your next visit to Osaka.

Table of Contents

What is the Osaka Amazing Pass?

The Osaka Amazing Pass allows either free or heavily discounted entry to dozens of attractions and events all across Osaka City. Users can save plenty of money on the transportation to and from these venues too.

In total, more than 40 venues offer free entry with the pass, and free transportation on the Osaka Metro subway network. Osaka City bus services are also included free of charge.

Some of the venues however, such as the Expo ’70 park actually lie outside Osaka’s city limits. As such, they aren’t served by the metro or the bus service. You will need to pay a little extra to get there using private rail lines or the Osaka Monorail.

However, the money you will save in entry fees more than makes up for this.

Types of Passes Available

The Osaka Amazing Pass actually comes in three varieties. The most common are the one day version and the two day version.

As one would expect, the two day version is more expensive, but offers additional benefits beyond that of the one-day option.

Recently a third variant, the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park Edition debuted to coincide with the 50 th anniversary of the World Expo, which was held in Osaka in the summer and autumn of 1970.

How much do the Passes Cost?

The one day version of the Osaka Amazing Pass costs 2,800 yen. You can order online here .

The two day pass costs 3,600 yen. Most travelers would agree that, if you are going to be in Osaka for at least a couple of days, then the two day pass represents the best value. Just 800 yen extra for basically double the usage represents phenomenal value in my book. Order a two day pass here .

Then, finally there is the question of the newly minted Expo ’70 Commemorative Park Edition pass. This one day pass offers all the benefits of the standard one day Osaka Amazing Pass, with the added benefit of travel options extended to cover up to Bampaku Kinen Koen Station on the Midosuji Line. This is the station closest to the park. One of Osaka’s most famous, and indeed eclectic landmarks, the Tower of the Sun, is a short walk from the station into the park. You can buy an Expo ’70 Commemorative Edition pass here .

Where Can I Buy the Pass in Osaka?

For convenience and to save time, we strongly recommend ordering your passes online here . Once you do that, you can later collect your pass from one of three tourist information centers located around the city.

The tourist information centers can be found in JR Osaka Station (near the central ticket gate), Namba (on the 1st floor of Nankai Namba Station) or JR Shin Osaka Station (just outside the central gate).

However, if you choose not to pre-order your pass online then they can also be purchased in person from any stationmaster’s office at any stop on the Osaka Metro Subway Lines. This applies to the standard one or two day pass.

However, the Expo ’70 Commemorative Edition passes can only be purchased either from the three tourist information centers mentioned above, or from the tourist center at Kansai International Airport. The tourist center is in the terminal 1 main building.

Other locations where one can purchase Osaka Amazing Passes include various hotels in Umeda area, Osaka Castle area, Hommachi, Namba area, Tennoji area, Bay area, Universal Studios area and Sakai.

A complete breakdown of where to purchase each type of pass can be found here.

Where can I go for free?

For a full list of the venues that offer free entry with the Osaka Amazing Pass, please check this list .

Here are some notable highlights:

The Umeda Sky Building Kuchu-Teien Observatory (free entry until 6pm. Usual cost: 1500 yen)

The Umeda Sky Building is one of Osaka’s most iconic structures. Built in the 1990s, the building towers over most of the surrounding Umeda business and shopping district. From the observation deck, you can see as far away as the Osaka Bay to the south, and the hills of Wakayama Prefecture to the east. On a clear day, if you look northwest, one can see as far away as Kyoto prefecture.

The observatory is also open every day of the year, meaning that it is a venue you can enjoy regardless of when you visit Osaka.

The Umeda Sky Building is about 10 minutes on foot from Umeda Station on the Osaka Metro, or Osaka Station on the JR line.

The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel (usual cost: 800 yen)

Standing at 112.5 meters, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel is one of the tallest rides of this type in Japan. Indeed it is taller than most in Asia. From the highest point of the wheel, you can see panoramic views of the entirety of Osaka Bay, and across the river to the famous Universal Studios Japan theme park. The adjoining shopping center, Tempozan Market Place, offers a wide variety of lunch and shopping options after you’ve enjoyed the Ferris Wheel.

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is a five minute walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro, Chuo Line.

Legoland Discovery Center Osaka (usual cost: 2400 yen)

If you’re travelling with family, then here is something for the kids to enjoy. Just next door to the Tempozan Wheel, you will find the Legoland Discovery Center. Kids of all ages can marvel at the Lego displays and play with some of the latest models in the adjacent Lego gift shop.

Please note that adults cannot enter Legoland without kids, and unaccompanied children under 15 are also not allowed.

The Tsutenkaku Tower (usual cost 800 yen)

As far as Osaka landmarks go, there are few more iconic than the Tsutenkaku. This tower, built shortly after World War Two as a symbol of Osaka’s resilience in the face of adversity, has remained a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike for more than 60 years.

The Tsutenkaku is a short walk from Ebisucho Station on the Osaka Metro, Midosuji Line.

Osaka Castle Museum (usual cost 600 yen)

It may be perhaps Osaka’s most iconic structure, but how much do you actually know about Osaka Castle?

Probably not as much as you would like to.

Well, Osaka Castle Museum is here to help. This museum, on the grounds of the castle itself, gives a detailed history both cultural and practical of the construction of the original castle. The museum also guides visitors through the evolution of Osaka Castle from a seat of power, to a cultural asset, to its role today as a symbol of the beauty and heritage of Osaka City.

With the Osaka Amazing Pass, you can also gain free entry to the Osaka Castle Nishinomaru Gardens, a place of great natural beauty and peace.

How About a Cruise?

In addition to allowing you to visit many of Osaka’s famous sites for no extra charge, the Osaka Amazing Pass also offers free entry (subject to seat availability) to a number of popular boat cruises.

The Santa Maria, which departs from the rear of the Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium, in Minato Ward , offers both a “day cruise” and a “twilight cruise”. Both cover the same route, around Osaka Bay, however, you can only use the Osaka Amazing Pass for one of them per purchase. Without the pass, the day cruise costs 1600 yen per person, the twilight cruise is 2100 yen.

Another popular Osaka cruise covered by the Osaka Amazing Pass is the Dotombori Jazz cruise.

Enjoy the sounds of a live band as you cruise up and down the famous Dotombori canal.

It is something of a custom in Osaka to give the boats a wave as they pass down the river, so feel free to wave back at the passers-by as you sail along.

Discounts Aplenty!

The Osaka Amazing Pass doesn’t just grant free entry into certain venues around Osaka. For those who don’t mind spending a little more, you can also enjoy discounts on a number of facilities, services and products across the city by presenting your Osaka Amazing Pass.

At the time of writing there are around 30 participating locations. A full list can be found here, but in the meantime, let us look at a few highlights:

Amagasaki Castle

It may not have the profile and prestige of Osaka Castle, but Amagasaki Castle, just over the border into Hyogo Prefecture is well worth a visit. With your Osaka Amazing Pass, you can enjoy a discount of 20% on the usual 500 yen entry fee.

Osaka Expo City

On the site where the famous Expo ’70 took place 50 years ago, now stands Osaka Expo City. This massive shopping and entertainment complex boasts, among other things a state of the art 4D cinema, high-end, designer shopping outlets and plenty to keep the kids entertained too.

At Expo City, your Osaka Amazing Pass entitles you to a book of vouchers giving discounts and other bonuses at a range of stores and outlets across the complex. The exact vouchers offered change from time to time. Ask at the information desk once you reach Expo City for further details.

Spa World: Onsen from Around the World

After a day of trekking around Osaka, taking in as many sites as possible, nothing quite beats a good long soak in a hot bath. At Spa World, just outside Shin Imamiya Station on the JR Loop line, visitors can enjoy a variety of different baths, saunas and spa treatments.

This Onsen resort is set over multiple floors allowing for both gender-divided and mixed gender bathing (You’ll need to bring a bathing suit for the mixed area).

Themed on around the idea of the ancient bathhouses from the days of The Roman Empire, the faux Greco-Roman architecture belies a very modern and luxurious set up.

Entry to Spa World usually costs 1300 yen for adults and 1000 yen for kids.

With your pass, visitors can enjoy a 200 yen discount for adults and a 100 yen saving for kids.

SEGA Abeno Q’s Mall SEGA VR Area

If you’re an 80’s kid like me, you probably have fond memories of playing SEGA’s consoles back in the early 1990s. Today, SEGA’s business focusses mostly on game centers and interactive entertainment. This new Virtual Reality-driven experience near Tennoji Station is one such venture.

Visitors to the VR center can enjoy a 200 yen discount which equates to 10% off of the usual 2000 yen fee to play a VR experience.

Legoland Discovery Center

If you do decide to take up the previously mentioned offer of free entry into Legoland Discovery Center, then don’t forget that presenting your pass also entitles you to a 20% discount on the café and adjoining shop.

Bear in mind that you will need to enter Legoland itself to be able to access the café.

Osaka Sky Vista: City Bus Tour

Open-top bus tours taking in famous local landmarks have been a fixture of most major European cities for decades now. So, it’s no surprise that Osaka too decided to join this ongoing craze when they added the Osaka Sky Vista tour a few years ago.

This non-stop 1 hour tour of the city’s hotspots is not to be missed.

With the Osaka Amazing Pass, Adults can save 200 yen on the 1500 yen asking price. Kids can also enjoy a 100 yen discount, bringing the cost of their ticket down to 900 yen.

Some Additional Considerations

Of course, like all discount schemes there are limitations to the Osaka Amazing Pass, and it’s important to be aware of them before you go ahead and commit to buying.

First of all, the pass is valid from the time of the first train until the last train on the day of purchase (or the last train on the next day if it’s a two day pass.)

Two day passes must be used on consecutive days.

The exact nature of the discounts and free entry offers available with the pass varies periodically. Please check the official Osaka Amazing Pass English site for the latest information before you buy.

As always, availability to enter many facilities is dependent on the weather, crowds and current public safety issues such as natural disasters or viral outbreaks. The site mentioned above is also updated regularly with this kind of information when required.

Limited capacity events, such as boat cruises are on a first come, first served basis.

Final Thoughts

Even just for the benefits of train and bus travel alone, an avid sightseer could get plenty of value out of the Osaka Amazing Pass. However when you add to that the plethora of free and reduced entry offers included, and the huge diversity of activities to choose from, there is no excuse not to buy this.

So what are you waiting for? Order yours today and start planning your next trip to Osaka!

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Fascinating anď interesting as always. I fully intend to purchase the 2 day ticket the next time I’m over. There can be no bettter way to explore Osaka. It is probably the best way for a first time visitor to see wonderful Osaka. I cant wait!

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Trip within a Trip: Osaka and Kyoto, Japan

May 1, 2024 • 9 min read

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Osaka

Snack time .

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

See the neon

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

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

Have a cheap and cheerful dinner

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

Day 2: Kyoto

Bullet train .

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

Stay in style

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

Visit the temples

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

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

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

Day 3: Kyoto

Go for the gold.

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

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

Modern love

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

Taste sensation

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

Day 4: Osaka

Smart hotel.

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

Window(less) shopping

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

Enjoy a messy lunch

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

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

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

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

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

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Osaka Family Vacation : 8 days Itinerary for 2023

• Universal Studios Japan
• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
• Osaka Museum of History
• Osaka Castle
• Dotonbori Street Food
• Day trip to Nara
• Day trip to Kyoto
• Tennoji Zoo
• Book here for the day passes .
• Book here for the Express 4 passes ( You need to purchase the day pass as well)

• Universal Studios 1-Day E-Tickets
• Universal Studios Express 4 
• Osaka Amazing Pass
• Nara Afternoon Tour
• Nara Todaiji and Kyoto Arashiyama Day Tour
• Arashiyama Rickshaw Tour
• Kyoto Day Tour
• Rapid:t Limited Express (Kansai Airport - Namba Station)

31 comments:

First time came across your blog from FB Japan Travel, Friendly Discussion Group and your blog is amazing. Your two boys are so cute and adorable.

Thank you . Do visit often :)

Amazing write up. It brings me back to the time i was in osaka. You beautiful shots btw. What camera are you using?

Thanks for the compliments . I used the Sony A7Riii for most of the shots :)

Regularly read your blog. Thanks for share very informative post. Keep it up.

Thank you :)

Hi, may I know what type of train or bus ticket did you buy for the whole journey? I am quite confused about the train system, not sure whether to buy local train ticket on top of JR pass. Thank you!

We used Single Train tickets. The only time we did not was when we had the Osaka Pass with the 2 days free train rides

Hi was reading your post on your Osaka trip and love your initinerary. Could advise how much you send per pax on average for this trip?

For family of 4 , excluding airfares was about SG 8K

Forgot to add, this includes 5 days in Tokyo as well

Very informative travel blog. Will be travelling with my family to Osaka in November with similar itinerary so useful to read your experience. Wonder if you will recommend Universal Port Hotel vs The Park Front Hotel at USJ? Much thanks.

The Park Front Hotel is nearer, but it was an easy 5 minutes walk from Universal Port Hotel.If you are heading to Tempozan Ferris Wheel / Legoland / Aquarium, the Universal Port would be more convenient as the ferry is just outside the hotel

How did you manage to use the Osaka Amazing Pass over so many days? I thought it had to be used on consecutive days?

We used it for only 2 days. The last day was additional cost on our own. If you have time , you can try to squeeze it in for 2 days.

Hi, for the Osaka Amazing Pass, do you just tap it at the fare gates of the subway stations? Or do we have to exchange it for train tickets at the counter before we are able to enter the stations? Thanks!

You can tap it at the fare gates if I remember correctly.

hi, Is it convenient to travel by public transport on the places that you have visited?

We visited everywhere with Public Transport. No problem with it :)

Hihi. Great to hv came across ur blog. Was wondering if u will recommend juz staying my 4 nights at hotel universal port and travel out to dontonori and nara rather than change hotel like u did.. cannot imagine the hassle lugging luggage and 3 kids...

It might be better to stay in dontobori and travel to USJ as it might be easier for day trip to Nara . If you do not mind slightly longer commute . Staying in one location would be fine

Hi, thanks for the great blog post, very informative and clear. I was wondering if the day tour for Kyoto from Klook is worth. For 2 adults + 1 child that will cost around $320 in total. Do you have some comparison in terms of how much the transport and admission fee would cost for similar itinerary if we do it on our own? If you don't , that's totally fine.. just trying my luck to see if it can help me decide. thanks

For DIY, not including of meal , you just have to pay for the train rides. I am not sure how much it cost but its lesser than $320. The upside is that you can go where you want, but planning to go to certain places ( eg temples ) might be challenging as only buses head to certain places. We did alot of walking compared to taking a tour. Hope it helps.

Can I pls check where did you stay in Osaka and Tokyo? Thanks.

We stayed in universal port hotel and cross hotel in Osaka https://www.thewackyduo.com/2018/02/hotel-universal-port-osaka-blog-review.html?m=1 https://www.thewackyduo.com/2018/10/cross-hotel-osaka-review.html?m=1 For Tokyo we stayed in Grand Nikki Odaiba

Hi, other than the Osaka Amazing Pass, do you use other passes to travel around Osaka or just buy tickets direct at the stations for every trip?

We paid for single trips. Due to our location, it was quite easy to travel around so transport passes was not necessary for us.

Hi, Great itinerary! Can I ask did you visit Osaka in December?

Yes , we visited in Dec :)

Hi, I am travelling to Osaka this Dec with tweens. Never been to such a cold place and I am frankly kinda worried. Can you share some ideas how do you dress the kids or what material or type of coats do u use?

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Noelia Voigt 'Overwhelmed' by Support After Resigning as Miss USA, Will Focus on Being 'Advocate for Mental Health Awareness' (Exclusive)

Noelia Voigt exclusively tells PEOPLE she's "grateful to be that beacon of light" regarding mental health awareness

• Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt exclusively tells PEOPLE she's received an overwhelming amount of support since resigning from her position.
• Voigt shares how she plans to become an "advocate for mental health awareness."
• It was reported that the pageant's CEO, Laylah Rose, allegedly created a toxic workplace, leading to Voigt's departure.

Noelia Voigt has received overwhelming support since relinquishing her crown as Miss USA 2023.

Voigt, 24, exclusively tells PEOPLE that since resigning from the title , she is “really overwhelmed and grateful for the support that [she has] been receiving.”

Voigt, who stepped down on Monday, May 6, citing her mental health , reflected on her decision at PEOPLE’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Exclusive Exhibit on Thursday, May 9, in New York City.

Voigt, who was crowned in September 2023 , adds that she’s “always going to be an advocate for mental health awareness and support."

“The fact that I've been able to kind of shed a light on that and be someone that people can look up to in that sense — and let people know that if something isn't good for you, it's okay to step away from it. I'm grateful to be that beacon of light for people," says Voigt.

Hector Vivas/Getty

She goes on to explain how mental health is "an incredibly relevant topic, especially today and in the post-COVID world.”

“It's always been very relevant, but more people are talking about it,” she affirms. “So the more that we have more people in a public spotlight shedding light on it and telling people that it's okay — like Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka — like it's okay. We just have to encourage each other.” 

Both athletes took breaks from their sports to prioritize their mental health in 2021.

Chance Yeh/Getty

Voigt made her announcement via Instagram on Monday, writing in part, "In life, I strongly value the importance of making decisions that feel best for you and your mental health."

She added, "I realize this may come as a large shock to many. Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth."

NBC News obtained a copy of her resignation letter and reported that Voight accused the pageant’s CEO Laylah Rose of creating a toxic workplace after Voigt told her she was sexually harassed at a Christmas event.

Voigt alleged that Rose told her in response, “We cannot prevent people saying things to you at public appearances, it is, unfortunately, part of the role you’re in as a public figure," NBC News reported on May 9.

“There is a toxic work environment within the Miss USA organization that, at best, is poor management and, at worst, is bullying and harassment,” read Voigt's letter, per the outlet. “This started soon after winning the title of Miss USA 2023.”

“It’s incredibly jarring to be trying to do my job and constantly be threatened with disciplinary action, including taking away my salary, for things that were never discussed with me and, if it related to a public-facing post for example, were causing no issue other than not meeting her personal preference,” she added.

Voigt also claimed that Rose often criticized her behind her back.

“I have heard that comments have ranged from her describing me as difficult to work with for various untrue reasons, to weaponizing my mental health struggles brought on by my experience as Miss USA 2023, calling me ‘mentally ill’ in a derogatory way, to expressing that she hoped I would get hit in the face by a baseball at an event where I would throw out the first pitch at a baseball game,” Voigt wrote, according to NBC News.

Paul Archuleta/Getty

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Following her announcement, the Miss USA organization thanked Voigt for her service, saying they "respect and support Noelia’s decision to step down from her duties."

"The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritize herself at this time," the organization said in the statement obtained by PEOPLE earlier this week. "We are currently reviewing plans for the transition of responsibilities to a successor, and we will soon announce the crowning of the new Miss USA."

If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.

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