Osaka (大阪) is a multi-faceted metropolis and a must-stop destination for first-time visitors in Japan. One of the main attractions includes the over 380-year-old Shinsaibashi Shopping Street. While you’re there, window-shop or people-watch or merely take in the pulse of this enduring cultural symbol of the city. For thrilling nightlife and scrumptious local foods, head over to Dotonbori and Namba. Also, don’t miss historical sites such as the famous Osaka Castle in the eastern part of the city. In our ultimate Osaka travel guides, you’ll find a jumping-off point with some of our favorite spots—though the city really begs for more intimate explorations. Enjoy the bright lights, tantalizing foods, and enticing tourist attractions in this third-largest metropolitan city in Japan! Japan reopened its borders in Oct 2022 and JOC readers have been asking us for travel tips, what to do, and where to eat. We’re in the process of updating and revamping our Japan travel content and to start off, our team has put together concise travel information for Osaka all on one page.
Top 3 Things To Do in Osaka
Osaka is the 3rd largest city in Japan and there is so much to do (Tokyo is the largest and Yokohama second). It is located in western Japan and the experience is completely different from Tokyo which is in eastern Japan. Here are our recommendations for first-time visitors:
1. Food
Famously known as the kitchen of Japan, Osaka is a mecca for food lovers. You’d find cheap-but-good street food to trendy cafes to fancy Kobe steak dinners on every corner of the streets. Bring your appetite because sampling foods is an integral part of experiencing the city. The must-try: takoyaki, kushikatsu, okonomiyaki, Japanese steak, kitsune udon, and yakiniku.
2. Shopping
If you have shopping on your mind, Osaka won’t disappoint. Browse through large modern department stores like Hankyu and Daimaru or walk through the 380-year-old Shinsaibashi-suji, there is everything for everyone. The main shopping districts in Osaka are Umeda to the north and Namba to the south. Looking for specialized goods? Hit straight to Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street for kitchen products or Amerikamura for trendy fashion.
3. Activities & Culture
Compared to Tokyo, Osaka has a more down-to-earth vibe but you can expect general good times even with kids in tote. Take in the view from the top of grand Osaka Castle, see the whale sharks at Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan), or ride one of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels at Tempozan. Looking for more thrills, then stop by Universal Studios Japan. Beyond these, there are plenty of museums, shrines, observatories, and parks to check out.
Osaka Area Guides
1. Osaka Castle
As one of the most recognizable landmarks in Osaka, the grand Osaka Castle rises high above the ground surrounded by a beautiful park and impressive stone wall. It is a replica castle and is wheelchair/stroller friendly with elevators inside.
2. Dotonbori and Namba
The spirit of ‘kuidaore‘—which translates to ‘eat until you’re ruined’—is best experienced at Dotonbori. There are hundreds of food options and the coolest restaurant signs along the popular street.
3. Umeda
Umeda is one of the major city centers in Osaka with endless dining and shopping options. The gigantic food malls inside the mega department store make a fun stop even if your belly is already full. Other things to do is to observe the city from HEP FIVE FERRIS WHEEL and ride the floating escalator in the cool slick Sky Building.
4. Amerikamura & Shinsaibashi Shopping Street
Amerikamura is well known for the latest trend in Japanese youth fashion. If that’s not your vibe, shop global brands and traditional boutiques on the historic Shinsaibashi Shopping Street.
5. Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai District
Take in the unobstructed view of Osaka from the top of Tsutenkaku Tower and taste the mouthwatering kushikatsu (deep-fried vegetables and meat on skewers) in the vibrant Shinsekai district. Want to be adventurous with your food choices, how about trying Japanese blowfish?
6. Expocity
Expocity in Osaka is perfect for young families visiting Osaka. Visitors get to ride the tallest Ferris wheel in Japan, explore the children-friendly aquarium NIFREL, or shop until they drop at Lalaport Expocity.
7. Tempozan Harbor Village
Tempozan Harbor Village houses incredible whale sharks at Kaiyukan and offers Osaka’s favorite foods at Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views from one of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels.
8. Univeral Studios Japan
Our comprehensive travel guide for visiting Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. You’ll also find recommended strategies for getting on the popular rides and Harry Potter World.
More Japan Travel Guides & Insider Tips:
I hope you enjoy these Osaka travel guides. Not far from Osaka, both Kobe and Arima Onsen are both great destinations for a short trip. Browse here for more recommendations for your next vacation to Japan! Sign up for the free Just One Cookbook newsletter delivered to your inbox! And stay in touch with me on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram for all the latest updates.
