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Enjoy a faster pace in Kansai's capital

Top attractions in osaka.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Osaka Castle

Around osaka.

Osaka is the capital of Osaka Prefecture and one of Kansai's most beautiful cities. During night time, the illuminated billboards and skyscrapers light up the city. Places include Namba, Osaka's..

Sakai is a bustling city in Osaka prefecture brimming with scenic parks, keyhole-shaped burial mounds, and temples. Just under an hour away from Osaka city, Sakai, also well-known for its quality..

Osaka city needs no introductions. As a major tourist hub in Japan, Osaka rivals Tokyo in terms of attractions and food. Visitors will be spoilt for choice with Universal Studios Osaka, Osaka..

About Osaka

The center of western Japan and the home of Japanese comedy, Osaka Prefecture (大阪府, Ōsaka-fu ) is lively at all times, as the business district in Umeda, the shopping area of Shinsaibashi, and the neon-lit nightlife district of Dotonbori reflect the upbeat and friendly nature of the local people.

But if you’re tired of the urbanity, Osaka Castle and the Expo Commemoration Park (which contains the National Museum of Ethnology and the iconic Tower of the Sun) ensure that you won’t run out of things to do. And that’s without even mentioning Universal Studios Japan .

Walking around the streets of Osaka can be a gastronomical experience, with many food stalls selling takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and other delicious fast foods and snacks. And if you have the luxury to splurge, have dinner at Kitcho, one of the most high class Japanese restaurants. 

Osaka Top 10

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THE MEAT OSAKA

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Upcoming osaka events.

Otaue Rice Planting Festival 2024

Japan reaffirms its deep connections with its staple crop at the annual Sumiyoshi Shrine rice-planting festival in Osaka on June..

Motor Camp Expo 2024

The Motor Camp Expo started in 2019 as a way to promote road trips and the myriad of outdoor activities associated with them, so..

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The Good Coffee Fest is an event that introduces some of Japan's best coffee shops in person, with a variety of brews on offer...

Where to eat in Osaka

Dotonbori's Top Restaurants

A saying associated with Dotonbori is kuidaore, which means to go bankrupt after spending a large amount of money on food. Not surprisingly,..

Bear Paw Cafe

On first glances, Osaka's newly-opened Bear Paw Cafe may seem like a cute gimmick, but it's much more than that.

Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace

Located on the top floor of Maraiza’s Landmark Square, the terrace offers panoramic views over Osaka Castle as well as a Japan..

Places to stay in Osaka

Amami Onsen Nanten-en

Amami Onsen Nanten-en is a traditional ryokan inn hidden deep within the Osaka countryside. Immersed in history and culture, boasting..

Cat Spa & Ryokan: Neko-Yokujo & Neko-Hatago

Located in Osaka, Neko-Yokujo and Neko-Hatago is a cat cafe and dormitory-style inn designed for cat rescue. The cafe and inn feature..

Visitors seeking a convenient base for exploring Western Japan will find karaksa hotel grande Shin-Osaka Tower the perfect place..

Latest Osaka Reports

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From July 19, 2024 to January 5, 2025, USJ will open two new Demon Slayer-themed rides.

Six “Treasures of Osaka” You Must See When Visiting...

To share Osaka’s heritage with travelers, six museums in Osaka will host a promotional campaign called the “OSAKA-HAKU” in con..

Onkochishin is a philosophy that I often associate with the chefs of Osaka. Confucius explains, “Exploring the old and deducin..

Let us know how we can help.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation

Top Things to Do

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Osaka

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Osaka: The Complete Guide

Getty /Ekkachai Pholrojpanya

As Japan’s third-largest city  , as well as its comedy and food center, there’s a lot to love about the city of Osaka. It has a markedly laidback atmosphere when compared to Tokyo, while still having everything you might expect of a big and bustling city. It’s also within easy traveling distance of Kyoto and Nara, making it a fantastic hub for exploring the country further. Find out everything you need to know before planning your trip to Osaka.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Summers are humid, hot and can be rainy during June and July, so anytime during spring or fall is ideal. Osaka comes to life with cherry blossoms during spring and yellow ginkgo trees in the fall, and the weather is temperate.
• Language: Japanese. Osaka locals famously have their own strong dialect, which is known as Osaka-ben.
• Getting Around: The subway or train is the best way to get around Osaka. You can pick up the ICOCA travel card or use the Suica or Pasmo travel card from Tokyo to make tapping in and out easier. Much of what you’ll want to see is on the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south through the city. Taxis are also an option, and you’ll find them outside most stations, or you can flag them down, but they can be expensive.

Getty /fotoVoyager

Things to Do

Osaka is a city that really unravels, given enough time. With quirky neighborhoods and an abundance of food and cafe options, it’s a perfect blend of old city charm and modern skyscapes. Here are a selection of things you must do when visiting Osaka:

• Visit Osaka Castle. Osaka Castle is one of the highlights to any visit to the city. The five-story castle features a museum displaying historical artifacts, armor, and weapons and also a fantastic view of the gardens and city from the top.
• Spend a day at Universal Studios. The first Universal Studios to open in Asia and the only one to feature The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This is a perfect Osaka day trip within the city and fun for all ages.
• Catch a view from the Umeda Sky Building. Two buildings linked at the tip with a giant observatory is the perfect spot for getting gorgeous photos of Osaka from above. The observatory is on the 39th floor and once you’re done at the top you can head to the basement where you’ll find an underground labyrinth of shops and restaurants. 
• Visit one of Osaka’s quirky museums. Osaka has plenty of fun and interesting museums which you won’t want to miss out on. One of the highlights is the Cup Noodles Museum where you can learn all about the international phenomenon of convenience ramen and make your own cup noodle! If you love art then make sure to visit the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum where you can see rare wood prints and try out woodblock printing for yourself.
• Visit Osaka’s shrines and temples. Like most places in Japan, there’s no shortage of historical spots to explore. In Osaka you’ll find stunning spots like Hozen-ji temple and Shitenno-ji temple which is Japan’s oldest temple.
• Shop in Shinsaibashi. Osaka’s covered arcades are like taking a step into the past. Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade is the best place to indulge in all things shopping with 600-meter long covered area to stroll down featuring everything from stationery to kitchenware.

Plan more of your itinerary with our guides on the best things to do in the city and how to spend 48 hours in Osaka.

Getty/ Calvin Chan Wai Meng

What to Eat and Drink

Osaka is repeatedly named as one of the top food cities in the world, and you’ll notice the sheer amount of street food and restaurant options almost immediately. Osaka is proud of its food culture and with good reason. This is the city that has specializes in three of the most comforting Japanese dishes—okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and takoyaki—all fried and all delicious. 

Dotonburi and Shinsekai are two of the major food districts in the city. Still, you’ll also find gems such as Kuromon Market, which dates back to the Edo Period and Miyuki-Dori Shopping Street, a 300-meter shopping street where you can choose from over 150 Korean restaurants. Aside from the local specialties, Osaka is also a perfect place to tuck into other Japanese favorites such as sushi, ramen, katsu curry, and yakiniku.

Getty /simonlong

Where to Stay

Osaka is a wonderfully exciting city with 24 wards to explore and hotels available all over the city. Here are some of the most popular areas to stay to enjoy your trip to the full.

Minami (Namba): One of the most popular neighborhoods in the city, Namba is the entertainment hub of Osaka and where you'll find the famous Dotonburi canal and running man neon sign. It's one of the most exciting restaurants and street food areas and ideal if you want to experience Osaka's nightlife, whether that's terrific bars or bunraku and kabuki cultural performances at the theater.

Nipponbashi: This is a perfect place to stay if you're hoping to explore the nerd and electronics haven that is Denden Town, Osaka's version of Tokyo's Akihabara. Once a year, there's a big cosplay festival, and there are often small events happening in some of the local businesses. You'll also be close to Kuromon Market and Namba, so it's an easy way to be close to the action but have room to explore some of the smaller neighborhoods.

Osaka Bay Area: This is an ideal area to stay if you’re hoping to be close to some of the family-friendly attractions of Osaka like the giant Ferris wheel and the world’s largest aquarium  ! There is also shopping, restaurants, and a ferry that will take you to Universal Studios. The gorgeous views of the harbor alone make it worth staying here.

Shinsekai: This is a traditional area that’s ideal for foodies and people looking to experience traditional aesthetics and neon side streets. Shinsekai is where you’ll find the iconic Osaka Tower and local hole-in-the-wall restaurants that specialize in kushikatsu, sushi, and yakiniku barbecue joints. You can also pay a visit to Spa World, perfect for relaxing in after hard day sightseeing and the Osaka Museum of Fine Arts

Shinsabashi: This dynamic area near Namba puts fantastic tax-free shopping opportunities on your doorstep. You have the Shisabashi shopping arcade and plenty of boutique shopping options as well as nearby America-mura (also known as Amemura), where you’ll find trendy and vintage shopping plus eclectic cafes and bars.

Getting There

To access Osaka by plane , you’ll arrive at either Osaka International Airport or Kansai Airport, which serves both domestic and international flights. From Osaka Airport, you can reach downtown in around half an hour, and you’ll find several options such as taxis (around $50), a bus ($60 and a combination of train and subway ($6). You can also hire a car from the airport to drive downtown, which will take you around 25 minutes.

If you’re traveling from Kansai Airport, the easiest way to get downtown is via train ($11), which takes around 70 minutes. You can also catch a taxi which will take 45 minutes, but it is a more expensive option at $165. Finally, if you are arriving on the shinkansen from Tokyo or another Japanese city, then you’ll arrive at Osaka Station, which is a prime location to simply hop on the subway to your next destination or get a taxi to your hotel.

Culture and Customs

• There's no need to tip in Osaka. In some cases, it can even be considered offensive.
• If you're shopping, whether at a convenience store, department store, or boutique, make sure to place your money in the dish on the counter. Your change will also be placed there. On that note, remember to carry cash as some places don't take cards. You'll find plenty of ATMs around the city if you're stuck.
• The bow is the standard form of greeting in Japan, but a head nod will usually suffice. Politeness goes a long way!
• When on the subway, make sure not to use the seats reserved for the elderly, even if there are no elderly on the train car who might want to sit down. Even when the car is packed, and those seats are empty, don't ever sit in them.

Money-Saving Tips

• If you’re using a JR pass then you will also be able to use this on the JR subway and train lines within Osaka. If you can avoid buying another pass and just use the JR lines you can save money.
• Get the ICOCA & Haruka card at Kansai airport for discounted travel into the city center on the train. You’ll also be able to use the ICOCA as a travel card going forward.
• Make sure to try some convenience store food and coffee to save money. Stores like 7/11, Lawson, and Family Mart have excellent quality bento boxes and hot snacks—perfect for picking up breakfast, a quick meal or gathering a picnic.
• Take advantage of tax refunds while you’re shopping. Purchases more than 5,000 yen (around $46) are exempt from the 10 percent consumption tax  . Wherever you see the tax refund sign just show your passport and that store and they’ll seal your items and give you a receipt to show at the airport before you leave.
• Look out for Osaka’s free attractions like walking in Minoo Park, exploring the grounds of Osaka Castle, and visiting the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku, the third-largest tomb in the world.

Statista. " Population of Osaka Prefecture in Japan from 1920 to 2018 ." November 2019.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan .

Japan Tax-Free Shop. " Japan's Tax Exemption ."

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Osaka trip blog — the super osaka travel guide for a budget trip to osaka for the first-timers.

Osaka is one of the biggest cities in Japan. If Tokyo is the capital of Japan, then Osaka can be considered as the Eastern capital of it. On a short trip you can visit the only region of Kansai, with the focus on Osaka city. This place is extremely diverse in cuisine, gathering mostly traditional Japanese delicious dishes. Osaka also has bustling, vibrant streets, diverse goods for shopping and prices are much better than Tokyo. So, do you want make a budget trip to Osaka and don’t know how to make a plan yet? This Osaka budget travel blog (Osaka blog, Osaka travel blog) will help you from A to Z. Now, let’s check out our Osaka trip blog with the fullest Osaka travel guide (Osaka guide, Osaka travel guide blog) from how to get there, where to stay, best places to visit, must-eat food to find out the answer!

• Osaka travel blog — The fullest Osaka travel guide for first-timers
• What to buy in Osaka? — Top 21+ gifts, souvenirs & best things to buy in Osaka
• Top places to go in Osaka — 20+ top, must-see places & best places to visit in Osaka
• Osaka Kyoto itinerary blog — How to spend 2 days in Osaka and Kyoto perfectly?
• Dotonbori guide — What to do in Dotonbori & suggested Shinsaibashi Dotonbori itinerary 1 day for the first-timers

Osaka travel guide blog: When is the best time to go to Osaka?

In winter, Osaka is not as cold as in the north, but summers are quite hot. When traveling in the summer, you should note to prepare clothes, hats, shoes, sunscreen to avoid direct sunlight. Due to there is little rain and the winter is not too cold, Osaka is suitable for traveling all year round.

Cherry blossoms in Osaka bloom a little later than in Tokyo, usually reachs at the peak in mid-April. All over the streets and especially in parks, where there are many cherry blossom viewing spots. You can go to several spots such as Osaka Castle and Kishiwada Castle to see the flowers. If you want to see the red leaves (Momiji, fall foliage), you can come back here in November and December.

See also: The fullest Japan travel guide for the first-timers.

Osaka trip blog: How to get to Osaka from Vietnam and other cities in Japan

Fly from vietnam to osaka.

From Vietnam, there are many direct flights to Osaka, both from Hanoi and Saigon (HCMC). The airlines operating the routes to Osaka can be named as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, or ANA. Vietnam Airlines tickets are quite high, Vietjet is cheaper.

If you invest lot of time to find and hunting for cheap tickets, sometimes you can hunt Vietjet tickets with prices only around $172 – $215 million/round trip. You should avoid booking tickets close to peak occasions such as cherry blossom season, red leaves season will be pushed up very high.

How to travel from Kansai Airport to central Osaka

Kansai Airport Transfers (KIX) for Osaka

If you fly to Osaka, you will be landed at Kansai International Airport. This is a large transportation hub in the Kansai region, you have many options to travel from here to downtown Osaka.

Osaka is very large, and getting from the airport into the city depends on what area you stay in. Major city stations that have subway lines to the airport include Osaka Station, Tennoji Station, Shin-Osaka Station, and Nankai Namba Station.

Nankai Line Airport Express Train Tickets (KIX or Namba Departure)

Looking on the map above you can easily choose the right line. If you booked hotel in Umeda district in the northern Osaka, the Kansai Airport Rapid Service line is the best choice for you. Travel time arounds 70 minutes and the fare is 1.190 yen/trip.

Alternatively, you can choose the Limited Express Haruka line to getting to Tennoji Station (35 minutes for 1.710 yen) and Shin-Osaka Station (50 minutes for 2.330 yen). Shin-Osaka Station is a shinkansen station for those who want to take the bullet train to other cities in Japan.

Another airport line is the Nankai Namba Station for those who stay in the Namba area. The price of this train is quite cheap at 920 yen and takes about 45 minutes.

JR Haruka Airport Express – Kansai Airport to/from Kyoto/Shin-Osaka/Tennoji (One Way)

For those with JR Pass : Both the Kansai Airport Rapid and Limited Express Haruka lines are operated by JR West, so these lines are free when you hold the Japan Rail Pass . If you stay in Namba area, take the train to Tennoji Station and continue using the JR Pass to the airport.

• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Getting to Osaka from other cities in Japan

Traveling from Tokyo to Osaka: If you come to Tokyo from Vietnam via Narita Airport, you can take the Narita Express train to Shinagawa. From here you switch to Shinkansen to reach Shin-Osaka station in about 4 hours.

If you traveling from central Tokyo to Osaka, the easiest way is still take the Shinkansen bullet train. You take the subway to Tokyo Central Station, then take the Shinkansen back to Shin-Osaka Station with traveling time of only 2 hours and 30 minutes. You can also take a plane or a bus, but the bus takes a long time (8-9 hours) and the flight is not convenient.

Access from other cities: Osaka is located in the Kansai region quite close to some other tourist cities such as Kyoto, Kobe or Nara. Traveling between these cities is very convenient. Especially for those holding a JR Pass , just look for the JR train line (express train) to go for free.

Osaka trip blog: How to getting around Osaka

Osaka is one of the largest cities in Japan, and the public transportation here is well developed and convenient. You can choose to take regional train, metro, bus, … You can combine both subway and JR line to travel within Osaka.

JR Line: Suitable for those holding the JR Pass, easy access to the surrounding areas. In Osaka city, you notice the Kanjo line going through the city, combined with subway to get to the place you want.

Subway and bus: You can consider buying a 1-day pass, a pass that can be used to take subway lines for free with unlimited travel, only valid for 1 day. This pass does not apply to Osaka City Bus to get to Universal Studios Japan and IKEA. Price at 800 yen/adult (holidays and weekends are 600 yen) and 300 yen/child.

With the developed subway system in Osaka, you can easily go to any location in the city. If you stay only few days in this city and want to visit major and famous spots like Namba, Umeda, Shinsaibashi, keep in mind the Midosuji line. This route passes through the above points to make it more convenient for your itinerary.

Osaka guide: Where to stay in Osaka for a budget trip to Osaka?

During this my trip to Osaka, I stayed in 3 different places. One was a First Cabin capsule, a type of hostel which quite popular recently. And the second place is an Airbnb right near Namba area, convenient for shopping in the last days in Osaka. Both make me very satisfied. And the third accommodation is still First Cabin but it is at Kansai airport, the night before I fly back to Vietnam.

First Cabin : More prominent than dorm type. Spacious sleeping accommodation although only 1 bed, equipped with TV in the bedroom and has a spacious shared bath (onsen type but not onsen). The furniture here is super complete, equipped everything you need like the 5-star hotels. You will not have to bring anything from home because, it provides towels, shampoo, shower gel, razor, dryer, comb, … and all-day clothes. You can check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Airbnb in Chou-ku: A three-bedroom room, but I monopolized the whole room that day. This Airbnb apartment is built with 4 spacious floors. It features a reading room, kitchen and living room with large sofa for guests.

Read more: Best hostels in Osaka — 4 cheapest hostel in Osaka Japan & cheap hostel Osaka you should stay.

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Osaka : [Grandouce Hanazonocho]Newly opened in 2018 at $18/night or Grandouce Shin-Imamiya☆Namba 4min/Build in 2019 at $20/night.

–> Airbnb link discount up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

Luxury hotels: In Osaka, there are many luxury hotels with super nice views. You can consider 2 luxury hotels with the best view of Osaka, namely InterContinental Hotel Osaka ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) or Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Osaka blog: What to eat and where to eat in Osaka?

It can be said Osaka is one of Japan’s busiest culinary cities. All delicious food from all over Japan you can experience here. Please refer to the article on Japan travel guide for first-timers for an overview of Japanese food . In this post, I will only cover my experiences of eating in Osaka with the delicious eateries I have already enjoyed.

Food court below the bridge of Umeda Station

Just below Umeda train station is a food court with many small, pretty bars and pubs. I stumbled here and enter a restaurant with a Japanese owner and all the waitresses were Vietnamese. The waitress recommended me some food like tofu, fish salad and oden (stewed daikon – white radish with tofu), and a light drink. The price for each dish is 300 yen.

Discover food paradise in Dotonbori

The delicious grilled food at Teppan Jinja : This shop is probably one of the best places that I eat during this trip to Japan. You will have a small seat right in front of the chef. Choose each type of food in the menu, select as much as you want then pay equivalent. Wow, each dish is seasoned and marinated carefully, fragrant, small, beautiful, but super delicious. Each dish is just a small shrimp, or a skewer of meat, a mushroom stuffed with meat inside, but extremely savory, tasty. Price will be a bit expensive, but you’ll get what you pay for, right?!

Address: Japan, 〒542-0076 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nanba, 1 Chome−4−6, Mifune Namba Biru, 1F Hours: 12PM–12AM

Fried seafood noodles: I ate this dish in a small restaurant in Dotonbori neighbourhood, after looking around the fine restaurants, there was no place because I hadn’t reserved before. Noodles, shrimp and chopped cabbage are stir-fried right on the hot stove in front of me. I ordered a cold beef to add more protein to the meal ^^. In general, this shop is okay, the price is not too high.

Read also: 9 food must try in Osaka & must eat food in Osaka.

Ginger Hut Osaka

This restaurant I dropped in when I returned to Osaka from Himeji, walked straight down to Osaka Station and saw several eateries are lined here. This restaurant is close to Temma station, mainly serves seafood and noodles. I ordered a bowl of noodles cooked with clams, a mixed plate (this dish is quite greasy) and some fried dumplings. One person cannot eat all, the total cost for the meal is 1.576 yen.

Some other food

Beef noodle breakfast: This restaurant is located quite close to Kuromon market on Chou-Ku street. This noodle bowl is quite big, with thick, firm noodles and chewy, the broth is delicious, the beef is also excellent.

27cafebyMARIONCREPES: The strawberry crepe here is very delicious and so cool. This cafe is located right in the Dotonbori shopping district.

Address: 1 Chome-6-1 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan Hours: 11AM–9PM

Dotonbori area also has a lot of snacks and street food for you to experience.

You can read this article with the fullest Dotonbori guide: What to do in Dotonbori & suggested Shinsaibashi Dotonbori itinerary 1 day for the first-timers.

Osaka travel guide blog: Where to visit and must-visit places in Osaka

Osaka is a very large city and you may spend from 3 to 7 days to experience most prominent fun and entertainment venues here. Not to mention that you may spend a few days for some day trips to visit nearby cities like Kobe, Himeji or Kyoto, Nara.

My itineray map during the trip in Osaka

Universal Studios Japan

Like Universal in Singapore or Disneyland in Paris, Universal Studio in Osaka is very large and spectacular. This place is perfect for those traveling to Osaka with families with young children. However, you should note if going on weekends will be very crowded and may have to queue to buy tickets for hours. You should book tickets online in advance at home to avoid wasting time and effort queuing up when coming here.

Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan Access: Take the subway to Universal City Station (JR Yumesaki / Sakurajima Line)

Umeda Sky Building

This 173m high building is built by two 40-storey towers, linked together by an observatory on the 39th floor. This observatory is called the Floating Garden Observatory. To get to the observatory you go to the 3rd floor of the East Tower, take the elevator to the 35th floor, where the escalator leads to the 39th floor of the West Tower. Tickets will be purchased here to access Sky Walk.

Address: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan Access: Go to Osaka Station or Umeda Station. Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Entrance fee: 1000 yen

Osaka Castle Park

Built in the 1500s and widely opened in 1931, it clearly shows the history of Osaka in Hideyoshi era. The castle is located on the campus of Osaka Castle Park. In spring, the park is also a great place for visitors to see the cherry blossoms.

Osaka Castle has an appearance similar to other Japanese castles such as the castle in Kanazawa or the Himeji castle near Kobe. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the park and the city while standing at the top of the castle.

Address: 1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan Access: The nearest train station is Tanimachiyonchome (4-chome) Station (Tanimachi Subway Line, Chuo Subway Line) Osakajokoen (JR Loop Line)

Have fun and shopping in Dotonbori

This is a shopping district for shopping enthusiasts. This area is no less crowded than Shinjuku in Tokyo, but mainly focused on food and shopping. Coming here, you will probably immerse yourself in the countless of stores, fashion shops, restaurants and bars.

Dotonbori located in Namba is one of two major neighborhoods in Osaka. It is known for the colorful lights that spread on endless streets. There are many streets specializing in cuisine with noodles, ramen, takoyaki, kobe beef, shabu-shabu,…. You can also get on a boat and ride on the small canals to see the city on either side.

How to get there: Stop at Namba Station and walk into center.

The HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel

Another shopping complex for shopaholics. This area also has hundreds of large and small stores. However, this is a place famous for the giant Ferris Wheel at 106m high, with a 360-degree view of Umeda area and Osaka port.

Address: Japan, 〒530-0017 Osaka, Kita Ward, Kakudacho, 5−15 HEP FIVE 7F Hours: 11AM–10:45PM Access: Go to Umeda station. Ticket price 600Y / adult.

Kuromon Ichiba Market

This famous Osaka market sells a wide variety of goods, especially seafood. Coming to Kuromon market, you will simply be attracted to the whole look of fresh seafood such as fish, squid, and shellfish. They will be sold in stalls, buyers choose and they will prepare food on the spot.

Kuromon Market is quite similar to the Omicho fish market in Kanazawa that I used to visit. However, Kuromon not only has seafood, there are also many other goods, especially fresh fruits. Strawberries here are also many, sorted into many types from small to large with different prices. Prices at Kuromon market are a bit more expensive than other markets, and tourists are always crowded.

Address: 2 Chome-4-1 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan Hours: 9AM–6PM

Shitenno-ji Temple

Shitenno-ji Temple is located isolated as a tall temple similar to that of Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo. Built in the 6th century by Prince Shotoku, this is one of the oldest temples in Japan. Although it has been renovated quite a few times, it still retains the original features and design.

The areas around the temple at outside you will have free access, but the 3 main areas you’ll need to buy tickets for are Chushin Garan, Treasure House, and Gokurakujodo Garden.

Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan Access: To Shitennoji-mae-Yuhigaoka Station (Tanimachi Subway Line) Opening hours: 8:30am-4:30pm and admission fee: 300 yen

Abeno Harukas – Harukas 300

Abeno Harukas located in Tennoji district is the tallest building in Osaka and is the 3rd tallest structure in Japan after the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city at Harukas 300 observatory on the 58th floor to the 60th floor. Admission fee is 1500 JPY / adult and 700 JPY for children. You can buy tickets on the 16th floor of the building.

Address: 1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016, Japan Hours: 10AM–11PM Access: Go to Osaka-Abenobashi Station, JR Tennoji Station

See also: How to spend 3 days in Osaka?

Osaka trip blog: Day trips to surrounding areas from Osaka

Osaka is located in the vast Kansai region with lots of attractions and places to visit. You can spend a day traveling from Osaka to surrounding cities and areas and go back to Osaka to sleep at night. Some reference places to go such as:

• Kobe: A coastal city with famous Kobe beef, coming here must definitely experience authentic beef in an equally upscale restaurant.
• Himeji: Stand out for Himeji Castle, especially during cherry blossom season. You take the train to Himeji from Osaka only takes about 1 hour (30 minutes if you take Shinkansen), and walk about 700 meters to reach Himeji castle.
• Kyoto : Japan’s ancient capital with countless attractions, you should spend 2-3 days in Kyoto to fully experience this wonderful place.
• Nara: Nara Park with a lot of animals and trees, suitable for those who traveling with family. Or simply for animal lovers, the deer here are also worth seeing and explore.

Osaka travel guide blog: Shopping in Osaka

Osaka is Japan’s shopping paradise. What makes this title is probably the bustle, diversity and extremely affordable prices in Osaka, which Tokyo can hardly compete on price. There are 3 main areas for you to consider when shopping in Osaka:

Famous for the Dontobori shopping district. If you are a fashionista, you can go to Namba Marui with more than 150 stores. Here, there is a concept of Mingle that is a combination of fashion from Osaka and Tokyo.

In addition, if you looking for medium to high-end fashion brands, you can go to Shinsaibashi-suji, with full brands of UNIQLO, ZARA, LUIS VUITTON and CHANEL.

Umeda (KITA)

Umeda is central to the Kita area, with a lot of major stores right close to the train station. You can go to big shopping malls such as HERBIS PLAZA, HEP FIVE and the Diamor Osaka underground shopping district.

Tennoji (MINAMI)

Located in the south of Dotonbori, Tennoji is commonly known as a tourist attraction such as Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai. But in recent years, Tennoji has emerged with many large shopping malls.

Abeno Harukas high-rise building with 16 floors is a large shopping mall, free WiFi. Tennoji MIO connects directly to Tennoji Staion with 12 storeys of shopping mall and 240 fashion shops to ensure you have a day of shopping for your favorite items.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Osaka you can refer to

• Osaka Amazing Pass (Osaka Pick Up & HK/TW Delivery)
• OSAKA Unlimited Travel Pass (1 or 2 Days)
• Osaka Amazing Pass (HK/TW/ICN/Osaka Pick Up & MY Delivery)
• Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass (1 Day/2 Days, Kyoto Pick Up)
• JR West Kansai Pass (1, 2, 3 and 4 Day Rail Pass)
• Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More
• Osaka One-Day Walking Tour
• Private Kansai International Airport Transfers (KIX) for Osaka, Nara, & Kobe
• Limousine Bus Transfers between Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka or Kyoto
• Private Kansai International Airport (KIX) Transfers for Osaka (Same Day Booking)
• Private Kansai Airport (KIX) Transfers to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Uji, Kobe, or Arima
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan

Are you looking for more Osaka travel guide and top things to do in Osaka: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Osaka itinerary 3 days — What to do in Osaka for 3 days? And fullest Osaka travel blog here.

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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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50 things to do in Osaka, Japan | Ultimate Osaka Travel Guide!

Are you planning a trip to Japan ? Then let’s talk about things to do in Osaka, because while most trips begin in Tokyo, no itinerary would be complete without a visit to “Japan’s Kitchen”. Osaka is a city filled with street markets, food experiences and restaurants galore, all of which make it a great destination for a first-time visitor – especially if you happen to be a foodie!

Located in the Kansai region, Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city but its size doesn’t detract from its friendliness. In comparison to Tokyo or Kyoto, Osaka has a very laidback vibe and it’s the kind of place where it’s easy to linger while feasting on delicious Japanese food .

In this article, we’re going to share some of the best things to do in Osaka, combining a mix of food adventures, popular attractions, and one-of-a-kind experiences you’ll only get in Japan. This isn’t so much an Osaka travel itinerary , as much as a list meant to offer some travel inspiration, so feel free to pick and choose to create your perfect trip to Osaka!

50 Things to Do in Osaka

1) Visit Osaka Castle. 

This is the city’s main tourist attraction and it is a beautiful sight! The castle sits right in the middle of Osaka Castle Park, surrounded by imposing stone walls and a wide moat.

You can even climb the steps up to the 8th floor of the castle for 360-degree views of the area.

If your trip happens to be in the springtime and coincides with cherry blossom season, get ready to enjoy sakura galore at Osaka Castle Park.

3) Join a Japanese food tour.

A street food tour is a fun way to get your bearings in a new city and also try some of the local cuisine. Osaka isn’t nicknamed “Japan’s Kitchen” for nothing!

This city is renowned for its cuisine and street food is a good place to start. One snack that you can’t miss is takoyaki, which are ball-shaped pancakes filled with octopus, pickled ginger, tempura and green onion. You can watch them be cooked right in front of you in moulded pans.

This Osaka street food tour takes you to 5 different eateries where you get to try 13 different dishes! This tour runs 3 hours in length.

3) Ride a boat around the moat. 

One of the many things to do in Osaka Castle Park is to ride the  Golden Wasen . This is a covered boat that takes you on a leisurely ride along the castle moat and allows you to experience the park from a different perspective. You can catch the boat just off of the Gokuraku Bridge.

4) Visit Shitennoji Temple. 

Founded in the year 593, this is the oldest officially administered temple in Japan, although the buildings you see today have been rebuilt over the course of the centuries. The temple is named after the shitenno: the four heavenly kings of the Buddhist tradition said to guard the world against evil.

Within the Shitennoji Temple complex, you can also visit Gokuraku-jodo Garden, a Japanese-style garden complete with ponds, bridges, and walking paths. It feels like a secret oasis.

5) Take a Japanese cooking class.

Another fun way to get familiar with Osaka is to join a cooking class! This is a fun way to learn to make some of the city’s local dishes like takoyaki and okonomiyaki – two staples you’re bound to come across either in restaurants or while sampling street food.

This Osaka cooking class runs 2.5 hours in length and you’ll learn to make two local specialties. It’s a small-group class limited to a maximum of 8 participants.

6) Go on a walk through Tennoji Park. 

This urban park has a lot to offer; it is home to botanical gardens, a zoo, an ancient burial mound, and an art museum. There are also some restaurants, cafes and ice cream stands on the southeast end of the park if you get hungry along the way.

7) Make dreams come true at the Horikoshi Shrine. 

This shrine is a place of pilgrimage for people who have a wish that they want to come true. The place is also home to trees that are over 550 years old. There are a series of  torii gates next to the shrine which makes it feel like a miniature version of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.

8) Join a guided walking tour of Osaka.

A guided walking tour is a great activity to do early on in your trip to Osaka. It’ll give you a good lay of the land and introduce you to some places that you might’ve otherwise missed.

This Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour covers a lot of the city’s main attractions like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Shinsekai and more! It’s a great option if you’re pressed for time and want to see the highlights.

9) Browse the shops in Den Den Town. 

Often compared to Tokyo’s Akihabara electronics district, Osaka’s Den Den Town is the place to shop for cheap electronics, manga comics, cosplay costumes, and anime-related collectables.

You can also play arcade games while you’re at it. Taito Station is the leading name when it comes to arcade gaming in Japan. The Den Den Town location offers 5 floors of entertainment – you could easily spend a few hours gaming here.

10) Ride the wheel at HEP FIVE. 

Osaka has quite a few Ferris wheels to choose from. This one is located on the roof of the HEP FIVE shopping mall and it’s painted bright red. It reaches a maximum height of 106 metres and you can enjoy views of Osaka as far as the harbour.

11) Visit the lion shrine. 

Namba Yasaka is one of the most unusual shrines you will encounter in Japan. Within the complex, there’s a stage built to resemble a roaring lion. It’s believed that the lion’s mouth can swallow evil spirits and bring people good luck both in school and business. That means it sees a lot of visitors during exam times and at the start and end of the financial year.

12) Drive around Osaka dressed in costume. 

This is a real-life superhero go-karting experience complete with outrageous costumes that are sure to turn heads. Just remember it’s important that you get an international driving permit in your home country before arriving in Japan because they will not accept your regular driver’s license!

You can book the Osaka GoKart Tour with a funny costume rental here. The tour runs 1 hour. 

13) Try not to go deaf inside a Pachinko. 

Pachinko is an arcade game somewhere between a pinball machine and a slot machine. One thing is for sure, Pachinko parlours are deafeningly loud and you can often hear them before you even see them! It’s one of those things you should experience at least once in Japan, even if you just walk through one briefly.

14) Watch a Japanese baseball game. 

Baseball in Japan is a one-of-a-kind experience. We went to see the Hanshin Tigers and were not disappointed by all the cheering, chanting, dancing, and unique songs the fans had for each player. It’s worth adding to your list of things to do in Osaka even if you’re not the biggest sports fan.

15) Explore Shinsekai at night. 

Shinsekai experienced a few decades of neglect which only helped to fuel its seedy reputation, however, this neighbourhood has a cool old-school feel. When you walk down the main strip towards Tsutenkaku Tower with all the bright neon lights, it almost feels a bit like time travel – like you’re seeing what people in the past thought the Osaka of the future should look like.

16) Eat sumo-sized meals in Shinsekai. 

Sumo wrestlers need to adhere to a pretty strict diet to keep up their weight, and there are restaurants out there that specialize in sumo meals. Chankonabe is the stew consumed by wrestlers, but in Shinsekai you can also find restaurants serving up all sorts of sumo-sized dishes. Just maybe bring some friends to help you out!

17) Play 80s and 90s retro arcade games. 

There are plenty of arcades in Osaka, but retro arcades are a rare gem. There’s one on the left diagonal lane moving away from Tsutenkaku Tower. Games include blasts from the past like Pac-Man, Street Fighter, Mario-Kart and more!

18) Go up Tsutenkaku Tower. 

Literally meaning “Tower Reaching Heaven”, at the time of its construction in 1912, this was the tallest tower in Asia. Today it has a height of 103 metres, with the main observation deck sitting at 91 metres. It’s open to the public and offers a bird’s eye view of Shinsekai.

19) Ride the Dotonbori Ferris Wheel. 

After an almost decade-long hiatus, the famous  Dotonbori Ferris Wheel  recently reopened to the public. It’s built onto the facade of the Don Quixote store (a discount store that can be found all over Japan) and also features Ebisu (the god of business prosperity) on its facade. It takes 15 minutes to do the full loop! Keep in mind it’s free to ride if you buy an item inside the Don Quixote store!

20) Cruise down the Dotonbori Canal. 

Another fun thing to do in Osaka is to take a river cruise on the Dotonbori Canal, especially if you can do so at night once the lights come on. The boat departs from the Tazaemonbashi Bridge Boat Dock.

21) Pose with the Glico Man. 

This is a very popular photo stop in Dotonbori. The Glico Man sign first went up in 1935 and it features an athlete in a victory pose. It’s actually an advert for the Ezaki Glico brand which manufactures confectionery products, but it’s proven to be very popular with locals – especially if there’s a sports-related victory.

22) Attend a sumo tournament. 

If you want to see sumo in Japan, you will have to time your visit accordingly because it only happens during a short window and tickets sell out fast! There’s a guide on how to watch sumo in Japan  here  and you can check out tournament dates  here .

23) Check out the giant food signs in Dotonbori. 

Even if you don’t know Japanese, in Dotonbori you can easily figure out what each shop specializes in based on the massive food signs on their storefronts. Picture a giant crab with moving legs, a massive octopus glaring down, and a pufferfish daring you to walk through its doors. It’s advertising at its finest!

24) Learn about takoyaki at the Konamon Museum. 

This museum is dedicated to Osaka’s most popular dish: takoyaki! Here you can learn about the famous octopus-filled pancake, and even make wax samples of takoyaki which you can then take back home as souvenirs. Just look for the giant red octopus along the main drag and you’ll know you’ve found the place.

25) Make your own okonomiyaki.

Some call it a Japanese pancake, others call it a Japanese pizza. This dish consists of a flour-based batter, shredded cabbage, green onions, vegetables and meat (usually a mix of pork belly, octopus, squid and shrimp). In some restaurants, it’s cooked in front of you, and in others, you can play chef at your own table. Either way, it’s a dish you should not miss in Osaka!

26) Order ramen from a vending machine. 

Japan is all about convenience, and this includes pre-ordering your bowl of ramen before you enter the shop – a picture menu makes it relatively straightforward. Once you’re inside, hand in your ticket, grab a seat at the bar, and slurps up!

27) Eat conveyor belt sushi and win some prizes. 

Conveyer-belt sushi, or kaiten sushi, is another one of those things that you need to experience in Japan . We went to Kura Sushi Namba Motomachi, where you pay 100¥ per plate. The fun thing about this restaurant is that you can also win prizes as you eat sushi. For every 5 plates you slide into the machine, you can win a capsule toy. We tried 5 times without success, but it sure is an incentive to keep eating!

28) Eat the fluffiest pancakes.

There’s a food trend in Japan at the moment, and that’s fluffy souffle pancakes. Gram, Brothers Cafe, and A Happy Pancake are some of the names that continually top the list for the best fluffy pancakes, so why not sample a few?

29) Visit the garden in the Abeno Harukas Building.

This is currently the tallest building in Japan and it was one of my favourite attractions in Osaka. Abeno Harukas offers some incredible views over the city. You have the rooftop garden on the 16th floor, which offers free admission, or alternatively, you can pay to ride up to Harukas 300 on the 60th floor

30) Strike a pose inside a purikura. 

These Japanese photo booths are a lot of fun. They will give you the widest eyes and the clearest skin you’ve ever had in your life, in fact, you’ll hardly look like yourself! Grab a couple of friends and snap a few souvenir photos, and then get carried away decorating them with stickers.

31) Visit the Pokemon Center. 

If you’re a Pokemon fan, then you’ll want to swing by Pokemon Center Osaka, which is located on the 13th floor of the Daimaru Umeda Department Store, right next to Osaka Station. Here you can shop for all sorts of original Pokemon products.

32) Explore Koreatown.

Osaka is home to the largest Koreatown in all of Japan and you can find plenty of Korean restaurants to satiate your kimchi cravings. The area around Tsuruhashi Station is especially popular for cook-it-yourself Korean barbecue. There’s also a covered market where you can shop for cute K-POP socks and hanbok ( traditional Korean dresses) !

33) Sample all the matcha desserts.

Japan loves all things matcha-flavoured, and what better place to try these than in the foodie capital. Matcha ice cream, matcha lattes, matcha cheesecake, matcha milk, matcha cookies, matcha chocolate – you can really try it all!

34) Get a taste of the US of A in America-mura. 

Also known as Ame-mura and American Village, this area has been regarded as the centre of youth culture, fashion and entertainment for at least 40 years now. The area is packed with cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs, and of course, a varied mix of fashion. Whether you’re into the lolita, punk or hipster style, chances are you kind find it here.

35) Check out the art scene in Nakanoshima. 

Nakanoshima is a 3-kilometre-long sandbar that sits between the Dojimagawa and Tosaborigawa rivers. It’s home to several art galleries, museums and exhibition spaces including the Osaka Science Museum, the National Museum of Art Osaka, GRAF, and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics Osaka.

This Osaka street art bike tour explores 3 different neighbourhoods where you’ll go in search of street art, graffiti and urban scenes. You’ll also try local coffee, visit an old-school Japanese standing bar, and end off with pizza!

36) Feel like a kid at Universal Studios Japan. 

Yes, there rides and roller coasters, but the main draw at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. With the use of your magical wand, you can walk through Hogsmeade casting spells.

37) Dress up at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. 

This museum  recreates buildings and streets that show what Osaka would have been like in the late Edo Period. Setting foot in this museum is like stepping back in time . They also allow guests to dress up in kimonos, just keep in mind that there can be long wait times if you visit on a weekend .

38) Learn about the art of bunraku. 

Bunraku is a type of traditional Japanese puppet theatre that become a popular form of entertainment for ‘commoners’ during the Edo Period. Today it is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and the National Bunraku Theatre is one of the few places where you can still see the artform. You can check  their schedule  for upcoming performances.

39) Watch a kabuki performance. 

Kabuki is a classical Japanese dance-drama featuring elaborate costumes, bold make-up, and exaggerated movements. It’s an art form that dates back to the Edo period, and in Osaka, you can catch a performance at the Shochikuza Theater.

40) Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. 

We’ve already mentioned a few Ferris wheels, but if you’re looking to get some real height, then you need to visit the Tempozan Ferris Wheel! This wheel has a 110-metre diameter and reaches a height of 112.5 metres. It takes 15 minutes to complete a full revolution.

41) Go up the Umeda Sky Building.

This is one of the most futuristic constructions in Osaka. Since we had already checked out the city views during the daytime, we decided to go up the Umeda Sky Building at night and this place did not disappoint.

42) Belt some tunes at karaoke. 

Another quintessential experience in Japan is to sing karaoke. Since Dotonbori is known as the nightlife district of Osaka, you have a lot of variety when it comes to karaoke – budget karaoke vs. VIP karaoke, small singing rooms vs. party-sized room, with drinks or without drinks. It’s best to browse around and check prices before you settle on a place.

43) Relax at Spa World. 

This place takes the onsen experience to the next level. Spa World Osaka is an onsen theme park where you can enjoy hot springs, saunas, swimming pools, massages and even restaurants.  Their onsen  is divided into a European Zone and an Asian Zone with numerous pools that transport you to different parts of the world.

44) Take a stroll through Kuromon Market.

When it comes to street food in Osaka, most people flock to Dotonbori, but the Kuromon Market is a good alternative. Come hungry because there’s a lot to eat here.

45) Shop for your kitchen. 

The Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Arcade is the place to transform your kitchen into a place worthy of a chef. The arcade is lined with stores selling cookware, accessories and utensils, which is why this place is nicknamed “the kitchen of the world”.

46) Have a convenience store meal. 

Lawson, 7Eleven, Family Mart – all of these are great options for a quick, cheap and easy do-it-yourself convenience store meal. Keep an eye out for things like onigiri, oden, and instant ramen.

47) Walk the longest shopping street in Japan. 

Stretching 2.6 kilometres in length, Tenjinbashi-suji is the longest shopping street in Japan. It’s a bit like a covered arcade, so perfect for a rainy day activity.

48) Try a traditional Japanese breakfast.

There’s nothing like a bowl of miso, grilled fish and white rice to start off a busy day of sightseeing in Osaka!

49) Visit a museum dedicated to ramen.

The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum is located a little ways outside downtown Osaka, but if you’re a ramen enthusiast, it’s worth the trip! They have workshops where you can learn to make ramen by hand, create your own noodle cup flavours, and tour the various exhibits.

50) Go on a day trip!

There are lots of easy day trips you can take from Osaka, the most popular being Kyoto for a city steeped in history, Kobe for a taste of their famed beef, and Nara in search of deer .

Where to stay in Osaka

• The Dorm Hostel Osaka
• Poly Hostel 2 Namba
• Home Hostel Osaka
• Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier
• Karaksa Hotel Osaka Namba
• Daiwa Roynet Hotel Osaka-Kitaham
• Osaka Marriot Miyako Hotel
• Swissotel Nankai Osaka
• InterContinental Hotel Osaka

Travel tips for visiting Osaka

• Fly into Osaka. If you’re visiting a few different destinations in Japan , consider flying into Osaka’s Kansai International Airport as opposed to Tokyo as international flights to Osaka tend to be cheaper. You can use Skyscanner to compare airfare here .
• Get an Icoca Card. If you’re going to spend a few days in Osaka and you’re planning to make use of public transport (and you should because the metro is the easiest way to explore Osaka!), it’s worth getting an Icoca Card as opposed to paying for single-ride tickets. You can then load money on to your card as needed, plus you can also use this card to pay at certain stores and vending machines.
• Use free WiFi at konbinis. If you’re travelling without a data plan and you ever get lost and need to access GoogleMaps for directions, you can do so at convenience stores because there’s almost always free WiFi. Keep an eye out for konbinis like 7Eleven, Family Mart and Lawson.
• Download GoogleTranslate on your phone. The app has a function where you can use the camera to translate text. This comes in handy with restaurant menus and mystery food items in grocery stores.
• Pick up a guidebook. I always like having a guidebook to better acquaint myself with the destination. I used the Rough Guide to Japan to help plan my trip to Osaka.
• Carry cash on you. While Japan is a very modern society and you can use credit cards at most stores, there are instances where cash is king, especially if you’re having street food or dining at small restaurants.
• Think about getting the JR Pass. Depending on the pace of your trip, it might be a good idea to get a Japan Rail Pass to get around the country. The pass must be purchased in your home country, and it’s good value if you’re planning to do a lot of train travel in a short period of time.
• Consider taking a guided tour of Osaka.  Explore the most entertaining spots in the most efficient way, accompanied by a local guide. You can visit spots recommended by locals without getting lost in translation, and you won’t be confused about where to go and what to try. Best of all, you can experience Osaka’s traditional and stunning culture!  Find Magical Trip’s Osaka Tour here .
• Don’t forget to get travel insurance. It doesn’t matter where in the world you’re travelling, you should never head out on a trip without travel insurance because accidents can happen and you don’t want to end up with a surprise medical bill.
• Go at it with a group. If group travel is more your style, you may want to consider a Japan group tour that includes Osaka as one of the stops, like Japan Express or Epic Japan . 

Did I miss any other fun things to do in Osaka? If so, share your ideas in the comments below!

I’m saving this and go do each one of them when I go to Japan. Thanks for this!

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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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Boston Food, Lifestyle, & Travel

in Japan , Travel · July 24, 2023

Epic 2 Days in Osaka Itinerary (Ultimate 2024 Guide)

Planning a quick trip to Osaka, Japan? After exploring numerous cities in Japan, Osaka comes on top as my favorite. This Osaka itinerary covers how to best spend 2 days in the city, as well as the top things to do, what to eat, and where to stay in 2024.

Last Updated: May 7, 2024

Table of Contents

This website contains affiliate links, meaning if you purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

General Tips for Your Osaka Itinerary

Before I get into the Osaka itinerary, here is some important information and tips that every tourist should be aware of!

• Osaka is nicknamed Japan’s Kitchen , so make sure to come with a big appetite. It’s the city of kuidaore , which is interpreted as “eat until you go broke”! 
• Osaka is a HUGE city with over 19 million inhabitants. The biggest tourist attraction is the downtown area of Dotonbori , where you’ll likely be spending most of your time.
• At the stores/food stalls/stores, pay close attention to the signage. Many vendors don’t allow pictures or videos !
• When eating street food, don’t walk around and eat. It’s considered rude in Japan. The polite thing to do is stand/sit somewhere until you finish eating.

Where to Stay in Osaka

For only two days in Osaka, the Minami district (including Dotonbori, Amerika-Mura, and its surrounding areas), are the best places to stay. You’ll be a short walking distance from all the city’s shopping, activities, and nightlife.

Getting Around Osaka

While in the Minami region, all the tourist areas are within a 10 or 15-minute walking distance. To get to other areas of the city, Osaka has an efficient subway system. I recommend buying an Osaka JR Pass.

Day 1 of the 2 Day Osaka Itinerary

The first day of the Osaka 2 Day itinerary is to explore Osaka’s most famous neighborhoods. You’ll be spending most of your time in the Minami area, which is one of Osaka’s two downtowns. For each place I mention, you can easily spend 2-5 hours exploring.

Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Arcade

Start your 2 day Osaka itinerary at one of the city’s most famous shopping hubs! The shopping arcade spans 8 blocks (600 meters) and is located just steps away from Dotonbori. There’s plenty of tax and duty-free shopping including kitchenware, cosmetics, fashion and clothing, character shops, and department stores.

I don’t even enjoy shopping much, but I easily found myself strolling and exploring the streets for hours. There’s something for everyone. It’s also the perfect activity for rainy weather since there’s a giant roof covering the pedestrian-only streets.

Don’t worry if you start to feel hungry, because the area has plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants, and street food.

Amerika Mura

Located just west of the shopping arcades, Amerika Mura (AKA Ame-mura ) is a trendy area that’s popular among the youth. If the name wasn’t already a giveaway, this is Osaka’s version of “America Town”. The neighborhood has over 2,000 restaurants, stores, bars, and cafes.

There’s an emphasis on second-hand shops, Western-owned shops, and urban street style centered around bomber jackets, band tees, and Hawaiian shirts. I also found it especially interesting that they had “Wild West-Themed” bars .

While you’re in the area, stop into Streamer Coffee for a coffee. The iced caramel latte from Streamer was the BEST I had in all of Japan! The inside of the coffee shop is decked out with vintage skateboards along the walls, a row of outdoor seating, and bagels. (Another incredible cafe is LiLo .)

Or, have a drink at one of the neighborhood’s many foreigner-friendly bars.

Optional: Namba Yasaka Shrine

Only about a 10-minute walk from Amerika-Mura is one of Japan’s coolest shrines. It has a unique, grand lion head statue where the shrine itself is in the lion’s mouth! You’ll find many tourists taking a picture in front of it. Do remember, though, that all in all, it’s a real shrine and not a tourist attraction, so it’s up to you whether you think it’s worth adding to your Osaka itinerary.

Traveling to Kyoto, too? Check out my Ultimate First Timer’s Guide to Kyoto, Japan!

No Osaka itinerary is complete without a visit to the iconic Dotonbori neighborhood! It’s best known for its extravagant colorful billboards and the wide variety of street foods. The area is characterized by the Dotonbori Canal and its surrounding streets. 

While you’re here, you may notice many tourists with their hands in the air. Make sure to take a picture in front of the famous Glico Man advertisement . It’s one of the most photographed areas of Osaka and is a must-do for any tourist. Depending if there’s a special event going on, you may see different renditions of the sign.

Another fun thing to do in Dotonburi is to take a 20-minute Tombori river cruise down the Dotonbori canal. It departs from the Tazaemonbashi Bridge Boat dock.

For anyone in the mood to shop, there’s a HUGE Don Quijote that spans 6 stories and is easy to spot with a bright yellow Ferris wheel with views over the Dotonbori Canal. For anyone who doesn’t know what Don Quijote (people also call it “Donki” ), it’s a national department store chain with discount prices. You’ll find everything from household goods to groceries.

Travel Tip: Don Quijote has a tax-free counter for tourists, so I recommend getting your souvenirs here.

Eat Street Food!

The streets of Dotonburi have HUNDREDS of street food stalls and restaurants, so come with an appetite. Especially at night, the streets are lit up with larger-than-life street food replicas above restaurants.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the street food options, but a good rule of thumb is to line up wherever you see a big line! Listed are some must-try street foods to eat while in Osaka.

Kushikatsu → This is a street food that’s primarily found in Osaka. It includes deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers. You then dip it into a savory, Worcestershire and soy sauce-based sauce. It’s far from healthy but is super indulgent and delicious.

Okonomiyaki → a Japanese savory pancake similar to a frittata, often made with cabbage, eggs, tempura scraps, and pork belly. The sauce is often a mix of mayo and okonomiyaki sauce. The great thing about this dish is it’s super customizable. I got mine topped with beef and cheese.

Takoyaki → These are round, fried balls made with a thick, gooey batter. Inside is a chewy cut-up octopus, green onions, ginger, and other spices. It’s often served with bonito flakes on top, which are fermented tuna.

I also tried some ramen from Kinryu , a famous (and touristy) Osaka ramen shop. The eye-catching restaurant is known for its giant dragon signage. You order the ramen ticket from a vending machine and give it to the chef to make. Then, there’s a topping station with green onions, garlic, and spice to customize.

The shop has mixed reviews as it’s not as authentic or tasty as other ramen in the city. However, I still think it’s a great spot for a quick, easy meal to fit into this packed 2 days in Osaka itinerary. 

Optional: Hozenji Yokocho

If you’re keen to drink, head just two blocks south of Dotonbori to Hozenji Yokocho , a narrow alleyway with around 60 local businesses. The alleyway gives Edo-period Japan vibes, with moss-covered statues and stone floors.

A recommended izakaya (Japanese bar) is Robatayaki Mizukake Chaya . The izakaya serves food robata style, meaning it’s grilled BBQ. You’ll be able to get your typical skewered meats, grilled seafood, and giant beer glasses. It’s also very reasonably priced.

Day 2 of 2 Day Osaka Itinerary

The second day of this 2 day in Osaka Itinerary has some more flexibility outside of the Minami neighborhood to see historic sites and observatories. (That is if you’re not done shopping!)

Visit the Osaka Castle

Wake up early to get to the Osaka Castle in the Chuo Ward when it opens at 9 AM. It’s recommended that you enter through Osaka Castle Park’s corner at the Otemon Gate. It’s available on the JR Line at the Osakajokokoen Station. 

The castle was built in 1583 as a display of power by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a samurai warlord and ruler. Since then, it’s been burned and rebuilt several times, with the current castle’s most recent reconstruction in 1931. 

The entrance fee is 600 yen and is free for anyone under the age of 15. The inside of the castle also has a museum with over 10,000 artifacts!

While you’re in the area, you can also check out the Osaka Museum of History and Mint Museum Osaka .

Kuromon Market

Located just off the Nippombashi station , Kuromon Market is one of the city’s most iconic markets. It dates back to the 19th century and currently has around 150 shops that specialize in fresh seafood, veggies, fruits, and street foods. It got nicknamed “Osaka’s Kitchen” since it’s where many chefs get their supplies.

The small market is only a small alley long, so it’s not too overwhelming to explore. Some must-try foods include oysters , fatty and melt-in-your-mouth toro tuna , and fresh sea urchins.

Den Den Town

If you love everything cameras, games, anime, and pop culture, you NEED to add Den Den Town to your Osaka itinerary. The neighborhood is just a 10-15 minute walk from the market. For anime fans, there’s a multi-level Animate store with plenty of merch. If you like claw machines and arcade games, head to Taito Station or SEGA Arcade.

Taito Station has over 4 stories of games. The first floor is mainly dedicated to addictive claw games and cute stuffed animal prizes. Further up, there are floors dedicated to fighting games , music/rhythm games , and more. I particularly enjoy the claw machines. They’re designed so that you actually have a chance to win. Not only that, they have cool prizes like anime merch and snacks!

Another wildly popular activity is the maid cafes.

Inside Osaka wrote a fantastic full guide to the Den Den Town neighborhood!

Abeno Harukas

Enjoy the best views of Osaka from above at the Abeno Harukas , one of the tallest skyscrapers in all of Japan. All within the building, there’s a department store, art museum, and hotel.

On the 16th floor, you’ll be able to access the art museum and free rooftop garden with city views. The 16th floor is also where you get tickets to the Abeno Harukas Observatory located on the 60th floor. Once up there, you can get a 360-degree view of the city and its landmarks.

Also located in Abeno Harukas are the Shop Harukas 300 for gifts on the 59th floor, Garden of the Sky on the 58th floor (open wooden deck space), and bar/dining at the Sky Garden 300.

Nearest train: JR and Osaka Metro Tennoji Station and Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line Osaka Abenobashi Station.

Dinner in Minami

Honestly, I think it’d be best to end your Osaka itinerary right where you started! Dotonbori is so big that just one night exploring the neighborhood just isn’t enough. I recommend spending your last hours in the city taking it all in. For Michelin-guide Tonkatsu, I HIGHLY recommend getting a table at Tonkatsu Daiki (see next section)!

Restaurants to Visit in Osaka

While Osaka’s street food is great, don’t skip out on the other high-quality meals you can get. To help navigate dining in Japan, use Tabelog. It’s Japan’s version of Yelp/Tripadvisor. As a general guideline, anything above a 3.50-star rating on Tabelog is considered 5 stars on Yelp/Tripadvisor.

Watanabe Curry → This Michelin-guide curry is the best I had on the entire trip! The owner had coined the dish as “curry you want to eat every day”. The curry at Watanabe blends Sri Lankan spices with sea bream and chicken broth.

While many Japanese curries are on the sweeter side, the curry here has a more authentic, South Asian kick . I highly recommend ordering yours with crisp-battered and juicy tonkatsu (pork tenderloin).

Kitatake Udon → Located on a side street of Den Den town, Kitatake is an authentic, Michelin-guide udon shop that gets super busy around lunchtime. The udon is thin and the broth is light. The chicken tempura is juicy on the inside and doesn’t taste too oily or heavy. It’s my favorite restaurant on this Osaka itinerary.

Tonkatsu Daiki → This eatery is just steps away from Dotonburi and is one of the best-rated tonkatsu in the city with a 3.58-star rating on Tabelog . The pork katsu is perfectly crunchy on the outside from the panko and comes with 3 dipping sauces. It’s a small space with only around 10 seats. I had to wait over an hour to eat, so line up right before opening to avoid my mistake!

Akinoya → This is a Bib Gourmand restaurant that’s a fan-favorite for okonomiyaki. You choose what toppings you want – squid, beef, cheese, etc – and the staff will cook it on the grill in front of you. They then top it with okonomiyaki sauce, kewpie mayo, dried seaweed, and bonito flakes. 

More Fun Activities for Your Osaka Itinerary

If you happen to have an extra day in Osaka, here are some other fun things to do in the city.

• Universal Studios Japan –> Especially if you’re with kids, Universal Studios is a fun activity to add to your Osaka itinerary. Tickets are only around $60 USD (give or take), and there are plenty of Japan-exclusive attractions like the Jujutsu-Kaisen 4D experience and Doraemon XR Ride.
• Osaka TeamLab Botanical Garden –> Opened in 1974, this open-air botanical garden combines nature, art, and technology in an immersive viewing experience.
• Osaka Aquarium –> The Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in Japan, as well as the world! General ticket pricing (as of July 2023) is 2,700 yen for ages 16 and older and 1,400 yen for ages 7-15.
• Umeda Sky Building –> Umeda Sky Building is an alternative to the Abeno Harukas for overhead views of the city. It’s two 40-story buildings connected by a bridge. Visitors can travel to the observatory up top. Given its unique structure , it’s a must for anyone with an appreciation for architecture!
• Shinsekai –> This neighborhood has plenty of vintage restaurants, alleyways, and arcades. It’s well-known for its kushi-katsu restaurants. Check out this popular food tour to try 10 different dishes in the neighborhood.
• Cup Noodles Museum –> Located in Ikeda, Osaka, this museum is an ode to instant noodles and its founder Momofuku Ando. Exhibits include the chicken ramen factory where you can make ramen by hand, the cup noodles factory to design your own noodle packaging, and the instant noodles tunnel with over 800 noodle packages along the walls.
• Street Go Kart Experience (10K+ Booked!) –> Go-kart through the popular sightseeing areas of Osaka. Sure, it’s touristy, but a unique activity for your Osaka itinerary.
• National Bunraku Theater –> See a traditional Japanese puppet theater experience!

Day Trips for Osaka Itinerary

Last, for day trips to go on after this Osaka itinerary, here are some nearby cities available by the bullet train:

• Nara –> about 45 minutes away. Check out the famous Nara deer park!
• Kyoto –> about 15 minutes away. Once the capital of Japan, this city is a must to see traditional shrines, temples, and palaces.
• Tokyo –> about 2.5 hours away. The capital of Japan. I have a full Tokyo itinerary on my website (see summary below)
• Kobe –> about 15 minutes away. The home place of Kobe beef!
• Kanazawa –> about 2.5 hours away. A must-do is to check out the Kenroku-en , a beautiful park/garden.
• Himeji –> about 1.5 hours away. The biggest attraction is the Himeji Castle, which is the largest castle in all of Japan.

Packing List for 2 Day Osaka Itinerary

Listed are some packing essentials that I found particularly helpful not only for an Osaka itinerary, but any trip to Japan.

• Coin Purse – While Japan is known for its technological advancements, it’s still a cash-based economy. You’ll be receiving a LOT of coin change throughout your time here, and a coin purse is the best way to store them.
• Compact Travel Umbrella – I found that a compact umbrella is a game changer while traveling. There are even compact umbrellas that come with cases so you can put it in your bag once inside.
• Waterproof Passport Holder – to keep your passport in its best condition.

Summary: 2 Day Osaka Itinerary

This wraps up my 2 Day Osaka Itinerary! If you found this Osaka travel guide helpful, please share it with friends!

Check out my detailed Tokyo 5 Day Itinerary & Travel Guide if you’re traveling there, too.

Also, check out my other city itineraries:

• 3 Days in Boston Itinerary
• One Day in Boston: Ultimate Travel Guide & Itinerary
• 3 Days in Atlanta Itinerary

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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

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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.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

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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Osaka for Any Traveler

May 24, 2022 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

When I ask many of my prospective clients how many days in Osaka they plan to spend, the answer is usually the same: Zero. For a variety of reasons, many travelers to Japan—especially ones coming for the first time—don’t plan to visit Osaka at all.

The good news is that many of these people are persuadable. When I explain to them what a charming, accessible and underrated city Osaka is, they’re willing to carve out at least a day or two in their itinerary, even if they haven’t got a long time in Japan.

No matter where you sit on this continuum, I hope you’ll hear me out. Osaka is worth some of your precious time in Japan—it’s up to you to decide how much.

Is Osaka Worth Visiting?

Regardless of how many days you spend in Osaka, you’ll have to answer a more fundamental question before you come—namely, whether Osaka is even worth visiting. For many travelers, the answer is a clear “no.” In their minds, Osaka is just a smaller Tokyo, one whose delights (the culinary ones, at least) can be enjoyed elsewhere in Japan without actually setting foot in the city.

I think it’s worth staying in Osaka, however, and not just to see attractions like Osaka Castle and Shitenno-ji temple. Osaka is the hub of Kansai (and Kansai culture), after all; the entire feel of the city is completely different to the rest of Japan, and certainly to Tokyo. Even if you don’t actually spend a night here, being on the ground in Osaka is essential to getting the full picture of Japan.

NOTE: Osaka is especially wroth visiting if you can come in late July for the Tenjin Matsuri , which is one of the top summer festivals in Japan .

Osaka in However Many Days You Have

Day trip from kyoto.

As I mentioned earlier in this post, the reality is that most travelers don’t plan to spend nearly enough time in Osaka—some won’t even stay a night. Still, even if you only come for the day from Kyoto, you can see major attractions like Osaka Castle , and enjoy famous Osaka street food along Dotonbori pedestrian street.

2 days in Osaka

If “two days” is your answer for how long in Osaka you plan to stay, this gives you more freedom and flexibility. Spend an entire day doing traditional sightseeing, adding Shitenno-ji temple and the Shinsekai district to the spots above, then devote day two to something else. Some travelers will take day trips to Nara or Himeji , while others will go to Universal Studios Japan .

3 days in Osaka

With 3 days in Osaka, meanwhile, you really have a lot of breathing room. This allows you to explore all of Osaka’s main attractions, and take a day trip, plus dig deep into secondary neighborhoods or visit Universal Studios. Another option would be to take a second day trip, be that to holy Mt. Koya in Wakayama prefecture, or off-the-beaten-path Awaji Island .

Osaka as your Kansai base

Rather than focus on how long to stay in Osaka-proper, you could simply use Osaka as your base and explore the Kansai region from there. This is contrary, of course, to most tourists, who base themselves in Kyoto while exploring Kansai. Still, this is great for a city like Osaka, which is so much more than its core attractions. After getting out for the day, be that to Himeji Castle or even as far as Okayama , you can get to know your local area—and the real Kansai.

TIP: Planning to head west to Kobe? Eat your Wagyu , but add an even more authentic element to your exploration by visiting the Uo-no-tana seafood market in Akashi.

Osaka as a “home” in Japan

I’d say it’s generally pretty uncommon to live in Osaka. Most jobs in Japan (certainly for residents just arriving) are in Tokyo; Osaka is also not an extremely popular place to study Japanese. Still, Osaka is a very livable city, and one whose charms are best enjoyed in a “slow release.” I often hung out here when I lived 30 minutes away in Kyoto—if I had the opportunity to live in the future, I’d absolutely take it.

Where to Stay in Osaka

Osaka can be difficult to wrap your head around, which is why it’s so essential to find a good hotel in a great location. Personally, I love staying along Osaka’s main north-south Midosuji-dori Street, particularly near Shinsaibashi Station. Hotels like HOTEL UNIZO Osaka Shinsaibashi and Hotel Nikko Osaka are roughly halfway between the busy Umeda and Namba hubs, and make a perfect base for sightseeing.

On the other hand, regardless of how long in Osaka you plan to spend, you could also choose to stay in a different area. Bijou Suites is located in the temple-filled Shitaderamachi district, while Luxcare Hotel is just a stone’s throw from Osaka Castle. Yet another option is to stay in Remm Shin-Osaka , which is near the Shin-Osaka Shinkansen depot and just a short subway ride from the city center.

Other FAQ About Trips to Osaka

Is 3 days in osaka enough.

Three days in Osaka is more than enough for most travelers. This allows you to spend a day exploring ancient Osaka attractions like Osaka Castle, one focusing on modern delights like Dotonbori pedestrian street and then a third for a day trip, likely to nearby Himeji or Kobe .

How many days is enough for Osaka?

Given that Osaka is a huge city and one of the most vibrant and eclectic in Japan, it’s difficult to quantify how many days there is “enough.” With this being said, most travelers spend between 1-3 nights in Osaka, depending on how long they have in Japan. This is sufficient to see the main attractions of Osaka’s city center, and potentially even to take a day trip or two.

Is 2 days enough in Osaka?

Although two days isn’t necessarily “enough” for Osaka, it’s the most common amount of time people spend in the city. After arriving, they head to Osaka Castle or Shitenno-ji temple, then spend their first evening in modern Dotonbori or Shinsekai. Day two is flexible: Some will head to Universal Studios Osaka, while others will dig deeper into history in ancient Shitaderamachi, capping off their trips with the view from Umeda Sky building.

The Bottom Line

How many days should you spend in Osaka? Most travelers will only spend a day or two here, with some even coming over from Kyoto in the morning and heading back in the evening. If you can, however, I urge you to consider spending longer in Kyoto. Beyond amazing attractions in Osaka’s city center—and trust me, there are plenty—Osaka makes an ideal base for day trips to destinations like Himeji, Kobe, Nara, Awaji Island and even Okayama. Still aren’t sure how Osaka should fit into your larger Japan trip? Commission a custom Japan itinerary , and let me crunch the numbers for you.

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Inside Osaka

Your Osaka Travel Guide

Osaka 3-Day Itinerary

If you have three days, you can really explore the different districts of Osaka. Our 3-day Osaka itinerary allows you to see the best sights efficiently and easily.

Itinerary Summary

• Three days allows you to explore Kita, Minami and the Osaka Bay Area, plus one outer district of Osaka.
• Base yourself somewhere central to save time.
• On Day 1, visit Osaka Bay Area and Kita.
• On Day 2, visit Minami and Tennoji.
• On Day 3, visit one of Osaka’s outer districts like Northern Osaka

Osaka Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Osaka: See our guide to the best areas and the best hotels to stay in Osaka .
• Things To Do In Osaka: Check this overview of Osaka activities with links to all the key information.
• Flights To Osaka: Find the cheapest flights to Osaka and flight times from scores of airlines with Skyscanner .
• Osaka Packing List: Don’t forget to take any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Japan .
• Travel Insurance: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Claim online anywhere in the world.

Full Itinerary

Note: The first two days of this itinerary are based on our Osaka 2-Day Itinerary . See that page for full details on these two days.

Day 1: Osaka Bay Area and Kita District

• 9:30am: Travel to the Osaka Bay Area
• 10am: Visit Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)
• 11:30: Eat Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace
• 1pm: Travel from Osaka Bay Area to the Kita District
• 1:30pm: Explore the Kita District
• 3pm: Travel to the Osaka Castle Area
• 3:30pm: Visit Osaka Castle
• 6pm: Dinner in Kita , Minami or Central Osaka

Day 2: Minami District and Tennoji

• 9:30: Travel to the Minami District
• 10am: Explore Minami
• Noon: Dotombori Area and Lunch
• 1:30pm: Visit Hozenji Yokocho
• 2:30pm: Walk through Doguyasuji Arcade
• 3:30pm: Visit Den-Den Town
• 5:30pm: Eat dinner in Minami
• 7:30pm: Check out the evening views from the Abeno Harukas 300 observation decks in Tennoji

Check Osaka Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Day 3: Outer District of Osaka

• On your third day in Osaka, it’s a good idea to head out of central Osaka to explore one of the surrounding districts. The most rewarding sights outside of the city center can be found north of the city, including those in the Expo City/Banpaku Park area. See our Northern Osaka page for full details.
• Alternatively, you could spend a day at the Universal Studios Japan theme park in the Osaka Bay Area, or take the train to Nagoya to visit Legoland Japan and the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

Hints, Comments and Variations

• If you’re only going to be in the city for three days, choose a hotel in a central location so you don’t waste time on transport. The most convenient areas are Kita , Central Osaka , and Minami . For more on where to say, check out my Where to Stay in Osaka page. For hotel recommendations in Osaka, check out our Osaka Hotels page.
• Note that Kyoto is only 14 minutes from Osaka by shinkansen and about 30 minutes by regular express trains. If you’re based in Osaka, you can easily make a daytrip to Kyoto. See our dedicated Kyoto travel website InsideKyoto.com for full details on Kyoto.
• Likewise, Nara is only about 50 minutes from Osaka by express train. You can easily visit Nara as a daytrip from Osaka. See our Nara travel guide for full details on Nara.
• For more daytrip ideas from Osaka, visit our Best Osaka Daytrips page.
• Don't try to do any more than this on three days in Osaka – you’ll tire yourself out. If you want to relax, subtract one or two places from this itinerary. As usual, it’s better to enjoy a few places properly than to sprint through many places.

Where Are These Places Located?

• Open the Osaka map
• You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
• Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
• Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
• If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Osaka Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Osaka guide
• Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Osaka
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka , Osaka to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Osaka's Kansai International Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare flight prices and timings to find the best Japan flight deals
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Osaka District Map

• Shin-Osaka Area
• Central Osaka Area
• Minami Area
• Tennoji Area
• Osaka Castle Area
• Osaka Bay Area