Japan is full of gorgeous locations, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the hovering peak of Mount Fuji. Nonetheless, in the event you’re planning the last word journey itinerary of Japan, you may’t overlook Osaka. From its mouthwatering road meals to its energetic nightlife and world-class sights, there are an limitless quantity of unbelievable issues to do in Osaka.
Osaka is one in every of my favourite cities in Japan (though I could also be barely biased since my mother is a proud Osakan). Not solely have I visited this vibrant metropolis numerous instances as a toddler, but it surely was my dwelling base once I spent a yr dwelling in Japan. And but, each time I go to Osaka, I uncover one thing new, funky, and thrilling to do.
So, whether or not you’re searching for a enjoyable day trip otherwise you’re planning to spend a complete week within the Kansai area of Japan, there are many superb locations to go to in Osaka. Inside this publish, I’ll define the very best Osaka sights so as to add to your itinerary; from the thrilling Common Studios Japan to the picturesque hikes of Minoh Park and the traditional temple of Shitenno-ji.
With out additional ado, these are the 15 finest issues to do in Osaka.
Greatest Issues To Do in Osaka
With so many unbelievable issues to do in Osaka, it may be arduous to restrict the alternatives to only 15. Nonetheless, I’ve hand-chosen among the finest excursions and sights Osaka has to supply. From the highest historic websites to the very best road meals, hikes, and day journeys from Osaka, you’ll discover a wide selection of issues to do round Osaka.
So, in the event you’re prepared to search out out extra, let’s dive proper in.
1. Go Purchasing Down the Dotonbori Canal
First issues first, I can’t discuss the very best issues to do in Osaka with out together with the Dotonbori neighborhood. Positioned within the Minami (Namba) space, Dotonbori is Osaka’s leisure heart and an important spot to expertise Osaka’s nightlife.
Whereas I’m not into the bar scene myself, I like visiting Dotonbori for its superb meals and buying spots. And I like its upbeat and thrilling ambiance. It’s full of vibrant, neon indicators and dynamic billboards, and also you completely need to take a photograph copying the long-lasting Glico Operating Man pose – it’s a should!
General, Dotonbori is without doubt one of the most vibrant and energetic neighborhoods in Osaka, and it has among the finest issues to do in Osaka at night time. Evidently, you completely have so as to add it to your Osaka itinerary.
Handle: 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Go to the Majestic Osaka Fort (One of many Greatest Locations to Go to in Osaka!)
Subsequent up, one in every of my absolute favourite issues to see in Osaka is the imposing Osaka Fort. A shocking piece of structure rising from a backyard of cherry blossoms and plum blossoms (you completely have to go to in February and March if potential), Osaka Fort was constructed below Hideyoshi Toyotomi in 1583 however has been destroyed and reconstructed many instances.
Housing a historical past museum and a scenic lookout level, Osaka Fort is the right place to go to for historical past and structure fanatics. Nonetheless, it presents one thing for nature lovers as nicely; my favourite factor to do is to wander round its huge park. Surrounded by enchanting gardens and a dense moat, it’s straightforward to spend half a day peacefully wandering across the grounds.
It prices 600 JPY to enter the citadel (round $4.25 USD) and it’s straightforward to ebook in particular person. Click on right here to be taught extra about visiting Osaka Fort.
Handle: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Pattern the Native Delicacies on the Kuromon Ichiba Market
Inside Japan, Osaka is known for its energetic nightlife and unbelievable road meals. If you wish to expertise the latter, I like to recommend you go to “Osaka’s Kitchen” – the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market.
Good for all of the adventurous foodies on the market, the Kuromon Ichiba Market is a public market situated within the Minami (Namba) space of Osaka. It homes over 150 outlets primarily targeted on promoting seafood, and lots of the stalls additionally promote smaller meals gadgets that you could take pleasure in proper then and there.
A few of my favourite issues to eat embrace takoyaki and yakitori. Nonetheless, it will possibly get fairly crowded throughout its peak hours, so I like to recommend going early within the morning. Click on right here to be taught extra about visiting the Kuromon Ichiba Market.
Handle: 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Spend a Thrilling Day at Common Studios Japan
For those who’re searching for the very best issues to do in Osaka for households, then you have to go to Common Studios Japan (USJ for brief).
As a toddler, spending an exhilarating day at USJ was at all times the spotlight of my journey. A few of my favourite rides embrace the Jurassic Park journey, the Jaws journey, and the House Fantasy journey. I’ve additionally heard superb issues concerning the newer rides akin to Mario Kart: Koopa’s Problem and the Flying Dinosaur.
Whether or not you’re touring with children, a big different, or with your folks, I actually suggest visiting USJ; it’s for sure my favourite theme park on the planet. For those who’re desirous about shopping for a pre-booked entry move, clicokay right here.
Handle: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
5. Admire the Native Sights on an Osaka Strolling Tour
For those who’re questioning what sights to see in Osaka, then you need to be part of one of many high guided Osaka strolling excursions. Not solely will this tour take you to the most well-liked sights in Osaka, however you’ll even be launched to some distinctive hidden gems.
With stops at among the high sights in Osaka, together with a number of that I’ve already talked about, (like Osaka Fort, Dotonbori, and the Kuromon Ichiba Market), your native information with share some tidbits concerning the huge historical past and tradition of this fascinating metropolis.
Whereas I’ve by no means taken this tour myself, my favourite approach to expertise a brand new metropolis is to wander round on foot. And I’ve spent many days strolling round Osaka Fort Park, Namba, Dotonbori, and Tennoji. With this tour, you may condense this wandering all the way down to half a day. For those who’re desirous about reserving the strolling tour, click on right here.
Handle: The tour meets at 3-chōme-2 Tanimachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0012, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
6. Tour the Historical Shitenno-ji Temple
Though Shitenno-ji Temple isn’t probably the most standard vacationer sights in Osaka, it’s undoubtedly one in every of my favourite locations to go to in Osaka.
One of many oldest Buddhist temples in all of Japan, (and the primary to be constructed by the federal government), Shitenno-ji Temple was constructed in 593 below Prince Shotoku. With a serene pond and a location close to the beautiful Gokuraku-jodo Backyard, Shitenno-ji is the very best place to flee Osaka’s crowded streets. So, in the event you’re an introvert like me, you completely have to go to.
For those who’re in Osaka on the twenty first of the month, I like to recommend testing Shitennoji’s Flea Market. Crammed with all kinds of fascinating merchandise, it’s one of many coolest locations to purchase souvenirs.
Handle: 1 Chome-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
7. Get a Style of Osaka’s Delicacies on a Meals Tour
For those who’re a foodie searching for probably the greatest issues to do in Osaka, then becoming a member of a meals tour is the best way to go. Guiding you to the very best native eating places for some scrumptious and mouthwatering genuine Japanese delicacies, you’re certain to get a real style of Osaka.
On this meals tour, you’ll strive among the finest dishes Japan has to supply, together with edamame, karaage, tonpeiyaki, yakitori, gyoza, and kushikatsu. And don’t overlook about one in every of my favourite Osakan dishes, takoyaki (a ball-shaped snack usually full of diced octopus).
Click on right here to ebook the Shinsekai Meals Tour; you positively gained’t remorse it.
Handle: The tour meets at 1-chōme-17 Sannō, Nishinari Ward, Osaka, 557-0001, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
8. Signal-Up for a Ramen and Gyoza Cooking Class
For those who like to prepare dinner (and eat) and also you’re searching for an interactive expertise in Osaka, then I like to recommend signing up for this superb ramen and gyoza cooking class.
Led by unbelievable, English-speaking instructors, you’ll be taught the ins and outs of make these two basic Japanese dishes from scratch. What’s extra, after your class is completed, you get to benefit from the fruits of your labor.
Whereas I’ve by no means booked a cooking class earlier than, I’ve at all times loved making my very own gyoza; I’m certain you’ll too. So, if knocking up your individual dish is one thing that pursuits you, this class will certainly be a spotlight of your journey. For extra particulars on ebook the cooking class, click on right here.
One other enjoyable cooking class in Osaka for {couples}, teams, households, or solo vacationers is this Osaka Cooking Class which teaches you make takoyaki (fried balls of wheat flour and octopus), okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), and miso soup. Study extra about this extremely rated exercise in Osaka, right here.
Handle: The category takes place at Japan, 〒542-0082 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Shimanouchi, 2-chōme−9−14 マスターズ・レジデンス道頓堀1. Click on right here for instructions.
9. Embark on a Waterfall Hike in Minoh Park
If you wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Osaka, I like to recommend visiting the local-favorite escape on the outskirts of Osaka: Minoh Park.
With a simple, three-kilometer climbing path that results in a 33-meter-high waterfall, Minoh Park is ideal for these with young children. It’s one in every of my favourite free issues to do in Osaka – I like visiting Minoh Park for its enchanting forests and serene river. Due to the hike not being significantly strenuous, it will possibly get crowded on weekends, so attempt to go to within the week if potential.
For those who’re visiting Osaka within the fall, Minoh Park is without doubt one of the finest locations to admire Osaka’s foliage.
Handle: 1-18 Minookoen, Minoh, Osaka 562-0002, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
10. Examine Out Osaka’s Hidden Gems on a Backstreets Tour
For those who’re eager to discover the extra hidden, distinctive, and unknown locations to go to in Osaka, then I like to recommend reserving this Osaka: Deep Backstreets Exploration tour.
Guiding you thru gritty areas with deserted buildings, playing spots, alleyways, and red-light districts, this tour is right for many who wish to be taught each side of town. It’s not advisable for youngsters below the age of 16, these with mobility impairments, or those that are pregnant.
Though I’ve visited Osaka numerous instances, I’m but to hitch this tour. It’s on my record of issues to do, nevertheless, because it explores districts and areas that I’ve little expertise with. So, if you wish to get a deeper perception into the historical past of Osaka and its not-so-pretty sides, then I like to recommend this tour. Click on right here to be taught extra.
Handle: The assembly spot varies; ebook the tour to be taught extra.
11. Expertise Osaka’s Nightlife on a Bar Hopping Tour
For those who’re eager on getting an area’s inside information of the very best bars and izakayas in Namba, you have to try this bar hopping and meals tour. From sampling unbelievable dishes to attempting high-quality drinks, this tour provides you with the last word introduction to Osaka’s nightlife.
I’m not likely a drinker myself however I can actually admire why Osaka is taken into account probably the greatest get together cities in Japan – it’s so colourful and vibrant, anybody can benefit from the ambiance. If you wish to try among the local-favorite bars, then that is positively one of many high issues to do in Osaka. Click on right here to be taught extra and ebook the tour.
Handle: The tour meets at 1-chōme-8-16 Nanba, Chūō-ku, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
12. Go to the teamLab Botanical Backyard
Whether or not you’re searching for probably the greatest issues to do in Osaka for {couples} otherwise you’re searching for a spot that may present some unbelievable photograph alternatives, I like to recommend testing Osaka’s teamLab Botanical Backyard.
Positioned in Nagai Park, this out of doors botanical backyard options digitized interactive artwork that includes itself into the encompassing surroundings. With enchanting and bewitching shows that make you’re feeling such as you’re in a fantasy world, it’s the right approach to spend a soothing night in Osaka. Click on right here to pre-book your ticket.
Handle: 1-23 Nagaikoen, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 546-0034, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Journey Osaka by Go-Kart
Wish to discover Osaka in model? In that case, then I extremely suggest reserving a go-karting tour; probably the most enjoyable issues to do in Osaka.
Providing costumes and go-kart rental, you’ll observe your information to among the finest sights in Osaka, together with Osaka Fort, Dotonbori, and Shinsekai. Click on right here to be taught extra and ebook, and word that you simply’ll want a sound worldwide driver’s license.
Handle: Japan, 〒556-0005 Osaka, Naniwa Ward, Nipponbashi, 5-chōme−5−２ 森本ビルII. Click on right here for instructions.
14. Take a Day Journey to Kyoto and Nara
As you may see by now, there are a lot of superior locations to go to in Osaka. Nonetheless, one in every of my favourite components of dwelling in Osaka was being shut to 2 historic and implausible cities: Kyoto and Nara. And fortuitously, you may go to them each in someday by taking this bus tour to Kyoto and Nara.
With stops in Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Nara Park, you’ll get to expertise among the most gorgeous sights Kyoto and Nara have to supply. Expertise two UNESCO world heritage websites and marvel on the pure magnificence of those former capital cities.
Any journey to Japan could be incomplete with out visiting these particular locations; they’re the very best locations to go to close to Osaka. Click on right here to be taught extra and ebook the tour.
Handle: The assembly and pick-up spots differ. E-book the tour to be taught extra.
15. Take a Huge Day Journey to Hiroshima and Miyajima
Final however not least, in the event you’re hoping to discover extra of Japan throughout your journey to Osaka, then I extremely suggest taking this unbelievable day journey to Hiroshima and Miyajima. Positioned lower than three hours from Osaka by Shinkansen (the bullet practice), you’ll get to go to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to be taught concerning the atomic bomb that dropped in 1945.
With a lot historical past and tradition, together with gorgeous pure websites, Hiroshima is dwelling to among the finest issues to do close to Osaka. I at all times love visiting this metropolis, together with Miyajima, its neighboring island, and this tour is certain to make you fall in love with town too. To be taught extra and ebook the tour, click on right here.
Handle: The tour meets at 3-chōme-1-1 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0001, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Osaka
Now that we’ve gone over the 15 most unbelievable issues to do in Osaka, let’s go over some pattern journey itineraries. Listed here are a number of methods that you could incorporate these high issues to see in Osaka into 1-day, 2-to-3-day, and 1-week itineraries:
1 Day in Osaka Itinerary
Right here’s how I might plan your final 1-day Osaka itinerary:
First, begin your morning by visiting the Kuromon Ichiba Market earlier than it will get too busy with fellow vacationers. Pattern a number of mouthwatering dishes for breakfast, earlier than heading to the Dotonbori Canal.
Admire the neon indicators and go to a number of shops, (just like the Mega-Don Quijote, an enormous low cost retailer), earlier than taking a practice over to Osaka Fort. Tour the museum and wander across the peaceable grounds at your leisure.
Finish the day by returning to Namba and reserving into one of many following excursions: the Shinsekai Meals Tour, the Bar Hopping and Meals Tour, or the Deep Backstreets Exploration Tour.
2-3 Days in Osaka Itinerary
Right here’s how I might plan your final 3-day Osaka itinerary:
On day one, I might ebook a guided Osaka strolling tour to Osaka Fort, Dotonbori, Abeno Harukas 300, and the Kuromon Ichiba Market. As soon as once more, I might finish the day by reserving one of many following superb night time excursions: the Shinsekai Meals Tour, the Bar Hopping and Meals Tour, or the Deep Backstreets Exploration Tour.
On day two, I might both spend the entire day at Common Studios Japan, or I might take one of many day journeys listed above – you may both ebook a day journey to Kyoto and Nara, or ebook one for Hiroshima and Miyajima.
On day three, I might begin my day with a waterfall hike in Minoh Park. Upon returning to central Osaka, I might go to Shitenno-ji Temple earlier than attending a Cooking Class in Dotonbori. Both select to finish the night time with one other night time tour or wander round Dotonbori.
1 Week in Osaka Itinerary
If potential, I completely suggest spending a complete week in Osaka. Not solely will it give you a greater image of town and its nooks and crannies, however you’ll additionally get the time to take a look at among the unbelievable day journeys from Osaka.
Right here’s how I might plan the last word 1-week Osaka itinerary:
The place to Keep in Osaka
These are a number of of the very best neighborhoods in Osaka for vacationers:
Kita (Umeda) – Greatest for First-Time Guests
The most effective neighborhoods in Osaka for first-time guests is undoubtedly Kita (Umeda). Conveniently centered across the big and bustling Umeda Station, Kita (Umeda) has every part a traveler seems to be for – unbelievable buying and eating choices, pretty shrines, serene parks, spacious streets, and academic museums. Regardless that it’s centered round so many issues to see in Osaka, it nonetheless has a peaceful vibe.
For those who’re pondering of staying in Kita (Umeda), I like to recommend staying on the Aloft Osaka Dojima.
Minami (Namba) – Greatest for Nightlife
Anybody who loves pleasure and motion has to remain in Osaka’s leisure district, Minami (Namba). Whereas my introverted self shortly was a bit of overwhelmed by the fixed crowds, Minami (Namba) is ideal for many who love nightlife and assembly new folks. With tons of bars, golf equipment, izakayas, and outlets, staying in Minami (Namba) implies that there are limitless locations to see in Osaka.
For those who’re pondering of staying in Minami (Namba), I like to recommend staying on the Hiyori Resort Osaka Namba Station.
Tennoji – Greatest for These on a Finances
Final however not least, in the event you’re a backpacker on a finances otherwise you’re simply wanting to decide on a extra inexpensive lodging choice, I like to recommend staying in Tennoji. Considered one of my favourite locations to remain, Tennoji is a bustling space full of unbelievable outlets and eating places with some contrasting quieter spots in Tennoji Park and Shitenno-ji Temple.
For those who’re planning to remain in Tennoji, a fantastic resort to take a look at is the Backpackers Resort Toyo.
Greatest Eating places in Osaka
Let’s discuss some extra about Osaka’s scrumptious meals; these are a number of of the very best eating places that you will discover in Osaka:
Takoyaki Wanaka Dotonbori
Osaka is known for 2 superb dishes: okonomiyaki and takoyaki. For those who’re desirous about sampling the latter, then you need to add Takoyaki Wanaka Dotonbori to your record. The proper snack to seize whereas exploring the streets of Dotonbori, the takoyaki (items of octopus in grilled balls lined in savory toppings) at Takoyaki Wanaka is affordable however scrumptious.
Sushi Hayata
A visit to Japan is incomplete with out gorging on sushi. Fortunately, you will discover some unbelievable and inexpensive sushi at Sushi Hayata. With a pleasant and welcoming ambiance, Sushi Hayata is without doubt one of the finest locations in Osaka to rewind for dinner.
Houzenji Sanpei
For those who’re desirous about attempting one other one in every of Osaka’s iconic dishes, then you definitely merely have to go to Houzenji Sanpei. Serving mouthwatering okonomiyaki (a savory pancake made with cabbage, meat, seafood, okonomiyaki sauce, and Japanese mayonnaise), Houzenji Sanpei is an inexpensive restaurant that’s positively price a go to. And belief me, okonomiyaki is a lot extra scrumptious than it sounds.
Ramen Zundo-Ya Shinsaibashi
Considered one of my favourite methods to calm down after an extended (and infrequently chilly) day of sightseeing in Osaka is to take pleasure in a steaming bowl of ramen. For those who’re desirous about doing the identical, then try Ramen Zundo-Ya Shinsaibashi. With a variety of inexpensive bowls of ramen to select from, it’s a fantastic selection for lunch or dinner.
Sunshine
Each time I go to Japan, the one factor that I completely need to get is the fluffy Japanese souffle pancakes. For those who’re desirous about attempting a few of your individual, I like to recommend visiting Sunshine. A comfy and standard espresso store providing breakfast meals, omurice, and pasta, Sunshine is a mid-range restaurant that’s good for a mid-day break.
Attending to Osaka
Now that we’ve mentioned what to do in Osaka, the very best Osaka journey itineraries, the place to remain in Osaka, and the highest eating places to strive, let’s talk about get to Osaka.
There are two airports in Osaka that you could arrive at and depart from: the Kansai Worldwide Airport (KIX) and the Itami Airport (ITM). At the moment, worldwide flights are served by KIX and home flights are served by ITM. Each airports supply trains and airport buses to get into and out of central Osaka.
You may also get to Osaka by practice, shinkansen (the bullet-train), or bus. For those who’re extra budget-minded like me, there are a lot of in a single day buses from Tokyo to Osaka that you could take. However, the best methods to get to Osaka are by bullet-train or flight.
When you’re in Osaka, it’s tremendous straightforward to get round. With an in depth, frequent, and handy practice system that takes you all around the metropolis, public transport is the best way to go. You may also get round by taxi, uber, bike, foot, or bus.
Issues To Do in Osaka: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Osaka:
Inside Japan and internationally, Osaka is called a big and bustling metropolis with mouthwatering road meals, energetic nightlife, huge leisure choices, and outgoing and considerably boisterous locals.
In my view, the very best time to go to Osaka is within the spring (late March-early April) and fall (late October-early November). If in any respect potential, it’s best to go to Osaka (and Japan) within the spring for the cherry blossoms; there’s nothing extra magical than seeing the unbelievable, historic Japanese websites surrounded by pink cherry blossoms.
The sights can get fairly crowded within the spring, so one other nice time to go to Osaka (and Japan) is within the fall for its vibrant, colourful foliage.
Osaka is certainly price visiting. From the majestic Osaka Fort to the historic Shitenno-ji Temple, the energetic Dotonbori to the thrilling Common Studios, there’s a plethora of wonderful locations to go to in Osaka. Moreover, Osaka has a singular and upbeat vibe that’s not like every other vacation spot in Japan.
Whilst you can admire and discover most of Osaka’s sights in 3 days, that’s the naked minimal (in my view). As somebody who lived in Osaka and is a toddler of a proud Osakan, I like to recommend staying longer if potential, particularly since there are a lot of unbelievable day journeys that you could take from Osaka (akin to Kyoto, Nara, Mount Koya, Kobe, and Himeji).
Sure, Osaka is completely protected; in keeping with World Inhabitants Overview, it’s the third most secure metropolis on the planet. Whereas there are some sketchy areas (like most cities on the planet), Osaka could be very protected in the event you take regular precautions and observe your instincts.
The preferred factor to do in Osaka is to go to the thriving streets of Dotonbori and Namba. Crammed with neon indicators and teeming with outlets and eating places, there are tons of issues to do in Namba. One other standard and superb sight is Osaka Fort.
Whereas Japan usually isn’t seen as an affordable vacation spot, I contemplate it to be very inexpensive. And Osaka itself is without doubt one of the cheaper locations in Japan; with tons of finances hostels within the Tennoji space and inexpensive road meals accessible all around the metropolis, Osaka is pretty cheap.
The 2 native dishes that you simply completely need to strive in Osaka are takoyaki (grilled octopus in savory balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes created from cabbage, meat, and seafood). In the event that they don’t sound too appetizing, I encourage you to rethink; served with among the most mouthwatering seasonings and sauces, these dishes are my consolation meals.
In Closing
I hope this text on the 15 finest issues to do in Osaka has supplied you with some concepts and inspiration to your Osaka itinerary. No matter how lengthy you’re visiting Osaka, I’m certain you’ll find yourself loving it as a lot as I do.
So, pack up your luggage and seize your passport. I hope you’ve gotten an unbelievable journey.
