Japan is crammed with beautiful locations, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the hovering peak of Mount Fuji. Nevertheless, if you happen to’re planning the last word journey itinerary of Japan, you’ll be able to’t overlook Osaka. From its mouthwatering avenue meals to its full of life nightlife and world-class sights, there are an countless quantity of unimaginable issues to do in Osaka.
Osaka is one among 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 baby, nevertheless it was my dwelling base after I spent a 12 months 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 in search of a enjoyable time out otherwise you’re planning to spend a whole week within the Kansai area of Japan, there are many superb locations to go to in Osaka. Inside this put up, I’ll define the most effective 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 greatest issues to do in Osaka.
Finest Issues To Do in Osaka
With so many unimaginable issues to do in Osaka, it may be laborious to restrict the alternatives to simply 15. Nevertheless, I’ve hand-chosen a few of the greatest excursions and sights Osaka has to supply. From the highest historic websites to the most effective avenue meals, hikes, and day journeys from Osaka, you’ll discover a big selection of issues to do round Osaka.
So, if you happen to’re prepared to search out out extra, let’s dive proper in.
1. Go Procuring Down the Dotonbori Canal
First issues first, I can’t discuss the most effective issues to do in Osaka with out together with the Dotonbori neighborhood. Situated within the Minami (Namba) space, Dotonbori is Osaka’s leisure heart and a vital spot to expertise Osaka’s nightlife.
Whereas I’m not into the bar scene myself, I really like visiting Dotonbori for its superb meals and procuring spots. And I really like its upbeat and thrilling environment. It’s crammed with 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 full of life neighborhoods in Osaka, and it has a few of the greatest issues to do in Osaka at evening. Evidently, you completely have so as to add it to your Osaka itinerary.
Deal with: 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Go to the Majestic Osaka Citadel (One of many Finest Locations to Go to in Osaka!)
Subsequent up, one among my absolute favourite issues to see in Osaka is the imposing Osaka Citadel. 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 doable), Osaka Citadel was constructed beneath Hideyoshi Toyotomi in 1583 however has been destroyed and reconstructed many instances.
Housing a historical past museum and a scenic lookout level, Osaka Citadel is the right place to go to for historical past and structure lovers. Nevertheless, it provides one thing for nature lovers as effectively; 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 fortress (round $4.25 USD) and it’s straightforward to ebook in individual. Click on right here to be taught extra about visiting Osaka Citadel.
Deal with: 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 legendary for its energetic nightlife and unimaginable avenue meals. If you wish to expertise the latter, I like to recommend you go to “Osaka’s Kitchen” – the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market.
Excellent for all of the adventurous foodies on the market, the Kuromon Ichiba Market is a public market positioned 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 objects you could get pleasure from proper then and there.
A few of my favourite issues to eat embrace takoyaki and yakitori. Nevertheless, it could 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.
Deal with: 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 in search of the most effective issues to do in Osaka for households, then you will need to go to Common Studios Japan (USJ for brief).
As a baby, 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 trip, the Jaws trip, and the House Fantasy trip. I’ve additionally heard superb issues in regards to the newer rides reminiscent of Mario Kart: Koopa’s Problem and the Flying Dinosaur.
Whether or not you’re touring with youngsters, a big different, or with your mates, I actually advocate visiting USJ; it’s unquestionably my favourite theme park on the earth. For those who’re taken with shopping for a pre-booked entry cross, click on right here.
Deal with: 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 it’s a must to be part of one of many prime guided Osaka strolling excursions. Not solely will this tour take you to the preferred sights in Osaka, however you’ll even be launched to some distinctive hidden gems.
With stops at a few of the prime sights in Osaka, together with a couple of that I’ve already talked about, (like Osaka Citadel, Dotonbori, and the Kuromon Ichiba Market), your native information with share some tidbits in regards to 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 Citadel Park, Namba, Dotonbori, and Tennoji. With this tour, you’ll be able to condense this wandering all the way down to half a day. For those who’re taken with reserving the strolling tour, click on right here.
Deal with: The tour meets at 3-chōme-2 Tanimachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0012, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
6. Tour the Historic Shitenno-ji Temple
Though Shitenno-ji Temple isn’t one of the crucial widespread vacationer sights in Osaka, it’s undoubtedly one among 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 beneath Prince Shotoku. With a serene pond and a location close to the stunning Gokuraku-jodo Backyard, Shitenno-ji is the most effective place to flee Osaka’s crowded streets. So, if you happen to’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. Full of all kinds of fascinating merchandise, it’s one of many coolest locations to purchase souvenirs.
Deal with: 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 in search of among the finest issues to do in Osaka, then becoming a member of a meals tour is the way in which to go. Guiding you to the most effective 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 attempt a few of the greatest dishes Japan has to supply, together with edamame, karaage, tonpeiyaki, yakitori, gyoza, and kushikatsu. And don’t neglect about one among my favourite Osakan dishes, takoyaki (a ball-shaped snack usually crammed with diced octopus).
Click on right here to ebook the Shinsekai Meals Tour; you undoubtedly gained’t remorse it.
Deal with: 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 in search of an interactive expertise in Osaka, then I like to recommend signing up for this superb ramen and gyoza cooking class.
Led by unimaginable, English-speaking instructors, you’ll be taught the ins and outs of how you can make these two traditional 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 personal dish is one thing that pursuits you, this class will certainly be a spotlight of your journey. For extra particulars on how you can ebook the cooking class, click on right here.
One other enjoyable cooking class in Osaka for {couples}, teams, households, or solo vacationers is that this Osaka Cooking Class which teaches you how you can 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.
Deal with: 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 straightforward, three-kilometer mountain climbing path that results in a 33-meter-high waterfall, Minoh Park is ideal for these with young children. It’s one among my favourite free issues to do in Osaka – I really like visiting Minoh Park for its enchanting forests and serene river. Due to the hike not being notably strenuous, it could possibly get crowded on weekends, so try to go to within the week if doable.
For those who’re visiting Osaka within the fall, Minoh Park is without doubt one of the greatest locations to admire Osaka’s foliage.
Deal with: 1-18 Minookoen, Minoh, Osaka 562-0002, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
10. Test 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 either side of town. It’s not beneficial for youngsters beneath 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, nonetheless, 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.
Deal with: 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 most effective bars and izakayas in Namba, you will need to take a look at this bar hopping and meals tour. From sampling unimaginable dishes to attempting high-quality drinks, this tour gives you the last word introduction to Osaka’s nightlife.
I’m not likely a drinker myself however I can definitely admire why Osaka is taken into account among the finest get together cities in Japan – it’s so colourful and vibrant, anybody can benefit from the environment. If you wish to take a look at a few of the local-favorite bars, then that is undoubtedly one of many prime issues to do in Osaka. Click on right here to be taught extra and ebook the tour.
Deal with: 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 in search of among the finest issues to do in Osaka for {couples} otherwise you’re in search of a spot that may present some unimaginable picture alternatives, I like to recommend testing Osaka’s teamLab Botanical Backyard.
Situated in Nagai Park, this out of doors botanical backyard options digitized interactive artwork that includes itself into the encircling surroundings. With enchanting and bewitching shows that make you are 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.
Deal with: 1-23 Nagaikoen, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 546-0034, Japan. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Journey Osaka by Go-Kart
Need to discover Osaka in model? In that case, then I extremely advocate reserving a go-karting tour; one of the crucial enjoyable issues to do in Osaka.
Providing costumes and go-kart rental, you’ll comply with your information to a few of the greatest sights in Osaka, together with Osaka Citadel, Dotonbori, and Shinsekai. Click on right here to be taught extra and ebook, and word that you just’ll want a sound worldwide driver’s license.
Deal with: 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’ll be able to see by now, there are various superior locations to go to in Osaka. Nevertheless, one among my favourite elements of dwelling in Osaka was being shut to 2 historic and unbelievable cities: Kyoto and Nara. And fortuitously, you’ll be able to go to them each in sooner or later 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 a few of the most beautiful 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 most effective locations to go to close to Osaka. Click on right here to be taught extra and ebook the tour.
Deal with: The assembly and pick-up spots differ. Guide the tour to be taught extra.
15. Take a Large Day Journey to Hiroshima and Miyajima
Final however not least, if you happen to’re hoping to discover extra of Japan throughout your journey to Osaka, then I extremely advocate taking this unimaginable day journey to Hiroshima and Miyajima. Situated 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 in regards to the atomic bomb that dropped in 1945.
With a lot historical past and tradition, together with beautiful pure websites, Hiroshima is dwelling to a few of the greatest issues to do close to Osaka. I at all times love visiting this metropolis, together with Miyajima, its neighboring island, and this tour is bound to make you fall in love with town too. To be taught extra and ebook the tour, click on right here.
Deal with: 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 unimaginable issues to do in Osaka, let’s go over some pattern journey itineraries. Listed below are a couple of methods you could incorporate these prime 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’d 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 couple of mouthwatering dishes for breakfast, earlier than heading to the Dotonbori Canal.
Admire the neon indicators and go to a couple of shops, (just like the Mega-Don Quijote, a large low cost retailer), earlier than taking a practice over to Osaka Citadel. 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’d plan your final 3-day Osaka itinerary:
On day one, I’d ebook a guided Osaka strolling tour to Osaka Citadel, Dotonbori, Abeno Harukas 300, and the Kuromon Ichiba Market. As soon as once more, I’d finish the day by reserving one of many following superb evening excursions: the Shinsekai Meals Tour, the Bar Hopping and Meals Tour, or the Deep Backstreets Exploration Tour.
On day two, I’d both spend the entire day at Common Studios Japan, or I’d take one of many day journeys listed above – you’ll be able to both ebook a day journey to Kyoto and Nara, or ebook one for Hiroshima and Miyajima.
On day three, I’d begin my day with a waterfall hike in Minoh Park. Upon returning to central Osaka, I’d go to Shitenno-ji Temple earlier than attending a Cooking Class in Dotonbori. Both select to finish the evening with one other evening tour or wander round Dotonbori.
1 Week in Osaka Itinerary
If doable, I completely advocate spending an entire week in Osaka. Not solely will it offer you a greater image of town and its nooks and crannies, however you’ll additionally get the time to take a look at a few of the unimaginable day journeys from Osaka.
Right here’s how I’d plan the last word 1-week Osaka itinerary:
The place to Keep in Osaka
These are a couple of of the most effective neighborhoods in Osaka for vacationers:
Kita (Umeda) – Finest for First-Time Guests
Among the finest neighborhoods in Osaka for first-time guests is undoubtedly Kita (Umeda). Conveniently centered across the enormous and bustling Umeda Station, Kita (Umeda) has every little thing a traveler appears to be like for – unimaginable procuring and eating choices, beautiful shrines, serene parks, spacious streets, and academic museums. Despite the fact that it’s centered round so many issues to see in Osaka, it nonetheless has a relaxed vibe.
For those who’re considering of staying in Kita (Umeda), I like to recommend staying on the Aloft Osaka Dojima.
Minami (Namba) – Finest 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 individuals. With tons of bars, golf equipment, izakayas, and outlets, staying in Minami (Namba) signifies that there are countless locations to see in Osaka.
For those who’re considering of staying in Minami (Namba), I like to recommend staying on the Hiyori Resort Osaka Namba Station.
Tennoji – Finest for These on a Finances
Final however not least, if you happen to’re a backpacker on a funds otherwise you’re simply trying to decide on a extra reasonably priced lodging possibility, I like to recommend staying in Tennoji. One in every of my favourite locations to remain, Tennoji is a bustling space crammed with unimaginable 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, an awesome lodge to take a look at is the Backpackers Resort Toyo.
Finest Eating places in Osaka
Let’s discuss some extra about Osaka’s scrumptious meals; these are a couple of of the most effective eating places that you could find in Osaka:
Takoyaki Wanaka Dotonbori
Osaka is legendary for 2 superb dishes: okonomiyaki and takoyaki. For those who’re taken with sampling the latter, then it’s a must 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 reasonable however scrumptious.
Sushi Hayata
A visit to Japan is incomplete with out gorging on sushi. Fortunately, you could find some unimaginable and reasonably priced sushi at Sushi Hayata. With a pleasant and welcoming environment, Sushi Hayata is without doubt one of the greatest locations in Osaka to rewind for dinner.
Houzenji Sanpei
For those who’re taken with attempting one other one among 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 reasonably priced restaurant that’s undoubtedly value a go to. And belief me, okonomiyaki is a lot extra scrumptious than it sounds.
Ramen Zundo-Ya Shinsaibashi
One in every 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 taken with doing the identical, then take a look at Ramen Zundo-Ya Shinsaibashi. With a variety of reasonably priced bowls of ramen to select from, it’s an awesome 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 taken with attempting a few of your personal, I like to recommend visiting Sunshine. A comfy and widespread espresso store providing breakfast meals, omurice, and pasta, Sunshine is a mid-range restaurant that’s excellent for a mid-day break.
Attending to Osaka
Now that we’ve mentioned what to do in Osaka, the most effective Osaka journey itineraries, the place to remain in Osaka, and the highest eating places to attempt, let’s talk about how you can get to Osaka.
There are two airports in Osaka 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 as well get to Osaka by practice, shinkansen (the bullet-train), or bus. For those who’re extra budget-minded like me, there are various in a single day buses from Tokyo to Osaka you could take. However, the simplest 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 everywhere in the metropolis, public transport is the way in which to go. You may as well get round by taxi, uber, bike, foot, or bus.
Issues To Do in Osaka: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Osaka:
Inside Japan and internationally, Osaka is called a big and bustling metropolis with mouthwatering avenue meals, full of life nightlife, huge leisure choices, and outgoing and considerably boisterous locals.
In my view, the most effective time to go to Osaka is within the spring (late March-early April) and fall (late October-early November). If in any respect doable, you must go to Osaka (and Japan) within the spring for the cherry blossoms; there’s nothing extra magical than seeing the unimaginable, 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 value visiting. From the majestic Osaka Citadel to the historic Shitenno-ji Temple, the energetic Dotonbori to the thrilling Common Studios, there’s a plethora of fantastic locations to go to in Osaka. Moreover, Osaka has a novel and upbeat vibe that’s in contrast to some other vacation spot in Japan.
When 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 baby of a proud Osakan, I like to recommend staying longer if doable, particularly since there are various unimaginable day journeys you could take from Osaka (reminiscent of 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 earth. Whereas there are some sketchy areas (like most cities on the earth), Osaka could be very protected if you happen to take regular precautions and comply with your instincts.
The preferred factor to do in Osaka is to go to the thriving streets of Dotonbori and Namba. Full of neon indicators and teeming with outlets and eating places, there are tons of issues to do in Namba. One other widespread and superb sight is Osaka Citadel.
Whereas Japan usually isn’t seen as an affordable vacation spot, I take into account it to be very reasonably priced. And Osaka itself is without doubt one of the cheaper locations in Japan; with tons of funds hostels within the Tennoji space and reasonably priced avenue meals out there everywhere in the metropolis, Osaka is pretty cheap.
The 2 native dishes that you just completely need to attempt in Osaka are takoyaki (grilled octopus in savory balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes constituted of cabbage, meat, and seafood). In the event that they don’t sound too appetizing, I encourage you to rethink; served with a few of the most mouthwatering seasonings and sauces, these dishes are my consolation meals.
In Closing
I hope this text on the 15 greatest issues to do in Osaka has offered you with some concepts and inspiration in 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 could have an unimaginable journey.
