One of the most exciting things about traveling is the chance to experience something new and different. Osaka is an amazing city that offers a lot of fun activities. There are plenty of things to do in Osaka — from learning about the Japanese culture to gorge on the delicious food and drink.
As the second-largest city in the country and a prominent port, it has an incredible history. The old capital of Japan is known for its rich culture and traditions, as well as its food, drink, and fireworks. Osaka is one of the most vibrant cities in this country. The Japanese mecca of cool, it is the country’s gastronomic, economic, and fashion center.
Shochikuza
Osaka Shochikuza Theatre is an old theatre in the middle of the city’s entertainment district called ‘Kita Shinchi’. It is also where you can see many famous actors and actresses. It is open 365 days a year. You can watch anything which might be interesting to you!
Located in the Umeda district, the various performances of the Osaka Shochikuza Theatre embrace everything from popular singer’s live shows to the latest premieres. The venue’s annual two-month summer Kabuki performance is also well known among theatergoers in the country.
If you are looking to do something after, be sure to sign up for their walking tour that features the best of all the area has to offer. You can also drop by a restaurant to bring the evening to a perfect halt.
Address: 1 Chome 9 19 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542 0071, Japan | Timing: Varies with performance schedules | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9DiQTMBSoY26ZsMj7 | Phone Number: +81662142211
Hozenji Temple
Hozenji Yokocho Temple was built in 1590 and is found in the Higashiyama ward. It’s one of the most popular cherry blossom spots in the city, that even became known as ‘Hanami ko’, a Japanese term describing a place where everyone goes for cherry blossom viewing. It is said that you can’t appreciate all that the city has to offer unless you have come to this special structure in March.
By Ethan Doyle White, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1 Chome 2 16 Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542 0076, Japan | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xG7FquKqEMKZVGjj9 | Phone Number: +81662114152
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of the five castles in Japan. It is a place where you can get excited about the castle and about enjoying the city at night. Osaka Castle’s tower is made of wood and stone, so it shows the atmosphere of old times. It was built in December 1583 by Hideyoshi Toyotomi and features a charming lake and a beautiful park with lush green spaces.
Osaka Jo is an amazing tourist attraction. It pays respect to the Toyotomi family and Japanese leaders. The entire area is a great historical experience that should not be missed when you are considering sightseeing.
By Otto Domes, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1 1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540 0002, Japan | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vKZjY1hd8fym9gy69 | Phone Number: +81669413044
Tachibana
Tachibana is a traditional wooden Japanese house right next to Kuromon Market in the center of Kyoto on the opposite side of Kiyomizudera Temple. Tachibana was preserved as a historical house rather than being renovated, and it now functions as a museum displaying preserved old-style Japanese rooms.
Tachibana is a must-see sight in Naniwa no Miya Park and it features a beautiful view of Osaka Bay. Osaka is one of the busiest cities in East Asia as it serves millions of tourists every year. The city was even the third-largest economy in the world back in 2008. Whether it’s sightseeing or shopping, the city is always buzzing with activities, and Tachibana is no doubt a great sight to check out during your trip here!
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By Pedro Szekely, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Nishinari Ward, Osaka, 557 0051 Japan | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/hAzR8U6gEBhpmyjW9
Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum
Visitors to the city don’t often get a chance to see the great works of Ukiyo-e that are housed in the city’s many monuments. Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, one of the city’s lesser-known spots, contains some intriguing monuments and restaurants that you can see through the walking tour.
The Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum is a small Japanese sight tucked away in an alley in the nightlife district of the city’s Shinmachi. Gunzo Nakai built it as a tribute to the Kamigata genre of art and prints and the artists who worked in that style.
Address: 1 Chome 6 4 Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542 0076, Japan | Timing: Monday: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 am to 05:00 pm| Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wjNJaWEdzF6rxG957 | Phone Number: +81662110303
Kaiyukan Aquarium
Kaiyukan is a gigantic aquarium where you can enjoy the beautiful and romantic worlds of the sea. They provide a wide variety of tank environments such as Amazon Flooded Forest Tank, Coral Reef Tunnel Tank, Aqua Dome Tank, etc. The aquarium is also equipped with special facilities enabling you to enjoy touch programs and live programs that inspire visitors to see the sea. Be sure to visit the iconic neighboring restaurant to bring the perfect end to your aquatic journey.
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By KimonBerlin, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: 1 Chome 1 10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552 0022, Japan | Timing: Vary with seasons and holidays. Please visit https://www.kaiyukan.com/ for latest timing | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JdxDN8ikruPxL7DbA | Phone Number: +81665765501
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is the vibrant market center of Osaka entertainment. This bustling area is full of action and clubs, bars, restaurants, bridge, and more. There is even a huge Glico running man sign and carousel. The area also has many shopping centers that are different from other areas in the city. It seems everywhere you turn, there are tons of signs for food, especially ramen. The whole area has a vibe that screams party!
Address: 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542 0071, Japan | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oJ1ZnJE9NDvdEmWk9 | Phone Number: +81662114542
Shiteno Ji Temple
Visiting the Shiteno ji Temple is one of the most impressive things to do in Osaka. Located within Tennoji Park, it is the oldest temple in the country and holds historic importance. It was originally constructed in 593 by Prince Shotoku (574 622) and is closely related to Japanese history and Buddhism.
As a Buddhist structure, Shiteno ji Temple is located in the center of the city’s Chuo Ward. It is also one of the few structures in the city that includes an onsen among its facilities. The complex has over 500 years of history and is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten, who represents all forms of art and knowledge, and her brother Sadayasu.
Address: 1 11 18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543 0051, Japan | Timing: 08:00 am to 04:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/efEWMsjpiN58ouK16 | Phone Number: +81667710066
Minoo Park
Minoo Park is located in the center of Osaka, along Nagata River. It’s a rather small area but still famous among people living in the Enoden train area because it’s only one station away from Minoo shiyakushomae Station on the city’s convenient train line: Enoden. The place was created after WWII, and it’s much smaller, but prettier than other parks such as Sumiyoshi Park or Yoyogi Park.
Address: 1 18 Minookoen, Minoo, Osaka 562 0002, Japan | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/UMDwi44iJagiebKVA | Phone Number: +81727231885
Eat Seafood at Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kuromon Ichiba Market is dizzying in its number of shops and stalls. There are boats lined up on either side of the street with crab, eel, and sea urchins for sale along with displays of live and still active fish. You’ll see everything from octopus and fish to octopus skewered on sticks outside a restaurant or tucked into plastic bags at a grocery store. You could eat seafood in Sasebo every night but there are exceptions such as yakitori, fugu, and sashimi. If you want to eat like a local in Osaka then try these popular spots for seafood in Osaka Kuromon Ichiba!
Address: 2 Chome 4 1 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542 0073, Japan | Timing: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xnCsE1bzTQLkTHGp7 | Phone Number: +81666310007
Abeno Harukas
Officially the tallest building in the country, and the third tallest in the world, Abeno Harukas is an astounding sight to see. Its 148m height soars above most other buildings in the city which makes it immediately recognizable. Abeno Harukas has 14 floors of shopping and office space and a glass roof on the top floor that lets you view all the way to Kyoto. So don’t worry if it’s raining when you make the trip to check out these spectacular views, they’re there whenever you want to see them!
Address: 1 Chome 1 43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545 6016, Japan | Timing: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/cQPxCm7iQDmkesPm6 | Phone Number: +81666210300
Magical Trip Bar Hopping Tour
If you want to try a different tour in Osaka, we present you with the Magical Trip Bar Hopping Tour. This tour takes you to the best nightlife areas in the city where they serve various kinds of drinks. Also, many of them are in an elevated position that gives great views of downtown as well. So hop for this amazing tour and grab your drink!
Tenjinbashi Suji Shopping Street
This is one of the top places to visit in Osaka if you are looking to have some unique shopping experiences. From an owl cafe to a high perch above the city, there are many choices. Tenjinbashi Suji Shopping Street in Chuo Ward is one of our favorites. Here you will find all kinds of unique items from furniture to accessories. You can also grab a fresh bite to eat as well!
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Address: 6 Chome Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530 0041, Japan | Timing: 10:00 am to 09:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZaztQqTXE1gcTvTk9 | Phone Number: +81663580035
Tempozan Ferris Wheel
Osaka’s Tempozan Ferris Wheel is the most famous of its kind in the country. It has a height of 60 meters and you can get your camera ready to snap panoramic views of Osaka Bay. Voted one of the best views in the city, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel is one of the best pieces of iconic architecture and a wonderful ride — one that’ll leave you with the best memories. It also appears to have started a trend of building modern Ferris wheels all over the country.
Address: 1 Chome 1 10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552 0022, Japan | Timing: 11:00 am to 07:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iMk9K1eEx1ReBSs98 | Phone Number: +81665766222
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios is a good place to check out for people who like Broadway-style entertainment, for fans of the Walt Disney Company’s theme worlds and Osaka attractions and rides, and those who are just looking for some time off. What’s great about USJ is that you can have fun there without even stepping into one of its famous Osaka attractions. The musicals, street shows, comedy routines, and rides of Attack on Titan and One Piece running every day are among the best things to do in Osaka and a wonderful way to get in touch with the local culture.
By Terence Ong, CC BY 2.5, Link
Address: 2 Chome 1 33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554 0031, Japan | Timing: 10:00 am to 07:00 pm (Timings may vary with season. Visit https://www.usj.co.jp/ for more details) | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Q6Gu1X9pn5qjvMWc7 | Phone Number: +81570200606
Osaka International Peace Center
The city plays host to a number of fascinating tourist attractions. While not all places to visit are foreigner-friendly, the Osaka International Peace Center is certainly one that is. It is located next to Otemae Park. The borough, at first glance, looks like it is more of a place for photographing cherry blossoms than taking a guided tour of the background history of the borough and its monuments.
By Bittercup, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 2, 1, Osakajo, Chuo Ward, 540 0002 Osaka, Japan | Timing: 09:30 am to 05:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/8MuFCs2sWsrjUrvx7 | Phone Number: +81669477208
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living is the first museum dedicated to housing design in the country. Its exhibits feature a wide range of housing designs from the past and present. Osaka Museum of Housing and Living has more than 100,000 photographs and other housing-related materials, which are also open to research. These collections are valuable resources for studying how buildings are constructed, how they have been utilized (what functions they serve), and how their environments have changed.
Address: 6 Chome−4−20, Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, 530 0041 Osaka, Japan | Timing: 10:00 am to 04:30 pm, Tuesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6D7pz3jLnX539TQq9 | Phone Number: +81662421170
Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum (Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda)
Have you ever eaten instant noodles? Have you ever thought about how they invented instant noodles? If you have, then you might want to check out the Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda where you will learn all about how Momofuku Ando invented instant ramen.
The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum is a great place to get to know more about instant ramen’s history and fun facts, while also being able to try out different flavors of regional instant ramen and cup noodles from all over the country.
By chee . hong, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 8 25 Masumicho, Ikeda, Osaka 563 0041, Japan | Timing: 09:30 am to 04:30 pm, Tuesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/1YWJLZreRR6CMcbGA | Phone Number: +81727523484
Izakaya Hopping
Izakayas, located in an isolated spot at the end of a long and narrow alleyway near Ōsaka Castle, is one of the city’s most unique dining experiences. Izakaya is the equivalent of tapas or restaurants here in America and is great for sharing with a group of people.
When in the city, a visit to a Japanese Izakaya (akin to an American bar or pub) is not to be missed! Most of the Izakayas are open until 11 pm, and seat groups of up to six people at low tables. They also serve food and drink, and lots of it! There are no reservations at most of the izakayas, so be prepared to wait if you go during peak hours on the weekend.
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Sumiyoshi Taisha is a historically important structure dedicated to the gods of mountain and sea. Established in the year 478, it claims to be one of the oldest shrines in the country, and according to legend, was founded by Emperor Keiko. The main hall, or honden, was rebuilt in 1701 and features elaborate woodwork; one of its pillars is claimed to be made from the first tree felled on Japanese soil from which all subsequent trees have been modeled.
Address: 2 Chome 9 89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558 0045, Japan | Timing: 06:30 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/89YEa9ZfxA1So93g8 | Phone Number: +81666720753
Try your luck with Pachinko
Pachinko may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about what to do in Osaka, but this bizarre and often misunderstood game is a great way to spend your time in this city. And it’s pretty exciting, too!
Pachinko is a bizarre mix of slot machines, pinball, and Japanese gambling games. Pachinko isn’t like anything you’ve ever played before, so it’s important that you know how to play pachinko before you go.
By MichaelMaggs, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Umeda Sky Building
Located across the famous Midosuji Dori (in B1), the Umeda Sky Building is also conveniently located a few minutes’ walk from Osaka station. Built in 1996, this 38-story building has an observatory on the top floor, providing a bird’s eye view of the city. Below the observatory, there is a selection of restaurants and an onsen spa that you can relax and rejuvenate at after viewing the sprawling landscape and having your breath taken away by the city’s skyline. Be sure to check out the Floating Garden here.
By Brücke-Osteuropa, CC0, Link
Address: 1 Chome 1 88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531 6023, Japan | Timing: 09:30 am to 08:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/o7gp9fCbPv8ut1SM8 | Phone Number: +81664403899
Travel back in time with Shinsekai Neighborhood
Some time ago the Japanese government made a list of ‘100 things to do in 100 days in Japan’. One of these was Shinsekai, a neighborhood that is a famous tourist spot. Shinsekai literally means the new world and is a great example of how the country has the potential and creative wit to re-use space. It was once an amusement world that needed renovation and it wasn’t cost effective to tear down everything that had already been built. Therefore, they took advantage of the location by creating apartments and shops where people could actually live!
By Kanchi1979, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1, Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, 556 0002 Osaka, Japan | Timing: 11:00 am to 08:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/hqwCGB3esxfguEcNA | Phone Number: +81666343827
Shinsaibashi
Shinsaibashi is one of the older areas in the city that has been standing since the beginning of the Edo period. Today, this shopping street has been continuously changing to fit itself into the city’s hip, bold, and trendy spirit that we all know and love today.
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Address: Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542 0085, Japan| Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DP8hS76FrnSYA5Yj8
Amerkiamura (American Village)
American Village is a shopping district. Since it is near many other Osaka tourist attractions, such as Universal Studios, Tennouzu Isle, and the famous Dotonbori Street, it is very popular among Japanese and foreign visitors. Despite the name American Village, the shops here are not only American-based. Besides souvenir shops and restaurants, there are many other interesting things to see in Osaka at Amerkiamura.
By W236, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542 0086, Japan | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/sXohccWtMvto2nvNA
Visit an Onsen (Hot Spring)
If you’ve never had a Japanese hot spring before, Onsen is a great place to start. The country is known for its abundant hot springs and has a total of 3,000 hot spring sources. According to numbers stated in 1982, there are more than 30,000 public bath facilities, as well.
There are many onsens dotting the Kansai region and all over the country, and each of them is unique! The Japanese waters vary according to their sources, ranging from hot spring water from underground thermal reservoirs to fresh lake water pumped directly into the bathtub. You should visit one of these when you go to one of the spas.
Namba Yasaka Shrine
The Namba Yasaka Shrine is a gorgeous destination for tourists and locals alike. This shrine is located in the middle of Osaka, found on 1 11 Minatojima Cho, Chuo ku. The shrine is roughly a 5-10-minute walk from the Umeda train station making it fairly accessible.
If you follow the hustle and bustle of Namba, you will find Namba Yasaka Shrine. Namba is the city’s center of entertainment, where new trends are born and new businesses flourish.
By Thomas Housieaux, CC BY 4.0, Link
Address: 2 Chome 9 19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556 0016, Japan | Timing: 06:30 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Hg2V8ZXxTeY4K5mV8 | Phone Number: +81666411149
Live in Capsule Hotel
Kaniwa Capsule Hotel is a brand new and unique accommodation that contains 78 individual rooms that are called “capsule” rooms. This cool hotel has a very stylish interior and a very friendly staff.
Capsule Hotels are a great accommodation option for those traveling in Japan. Access to a capsule hotel is usually cheap, and will typically include a small locker in which you can store your belongings. A shower and toilet are usually available within each capsule. Some capsule hotels offer single or double occupancy capsules or larger ones for families.
ByJtesla16, CC BY-SA 1.0, Link
Attend a Traditional Tea Ceremony
The roots of the traditional tea ceremony date back to the 12th century in Japan, where its original purpose was to mediate between bitter rival warlords. Sipping matcha is more of a modern-day relaxation ritual, but you can still feel the essence of its calming and refined traditional atmosphere at whichever of these institutions or landmarks are a part of your itinerary. This ritual of have tea is a part of their culture.
By mrhayata, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Tower of the Sun
The Tower of the Sun is a historic monument that was built in 1894. The tower is located on the shoreline of Osaka Bay and sits on a 4.96-hectare (12.8 acres) plot of land. It takes about 20 minutes by car from the center of the city to reach this historical landmark, or you can also take the train that runs from Osaka station to Sumiyoshi station.
The Tower of the Sun has a rotating restaurant at the top, with some of the city’s best views. Be sure to check it out on your trip to the City of Wonder!
Address: 1 1 Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565 0826, Japan | Timing: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Wednesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6aTdhA4bgevZehaj6 | Phone Number: +81120197089
Osaka is one of the most interesting and entertaining cities of Japan. It is modern, yet retains its traditional and cultural character. The country’s ancient capital, Nara City, which is close to Osaka, is home to over 1200 Buddhist structures and shrines. It is also a vital industrial center that attracts tourists to its beautiful architecture, unique shops, and multitudes of cultures. However, despite the industrial looks, you will find modern skyscrapers standing alongside historic structures, an interesting mix indeed.
