What to do in Osaka
Osaka is Japan’s third largest city in terms of population. Among the main attractions are Universal Studios and the aquarium. Also worth seeing are the castle, the Umeda Sky Building and Dotonbori.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a popular theme park located in Osaka. This incredible theme park offers unique experiences based on famous Hollywood films such as Jurassic Park, Harry Potter and Minions. Guests can fully immerse themselves in fantastic worlds through exciting rides, live shows and encounters with iconic characters. USJ is also known for its seasonal events, such as Horror Nights during Halloween. In addition to the fantastic experiences, the park offers restaurants, shops and entertainment to ensure a complete experience. Universal Studios Japan is a magical place that captivates visitors of all ages.
Super Nintendo World opened on 4 February 2021.
Staka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
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| 9:00-20:00 (variable) Last entry 30 minutes before closing time Detailed timetables |
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| No closing days | |
| 1-Day Pass: from 8600 Yen (12-64 years) from 5600 Yen (4-11 years old) from 7700 Yen (65 years or older) 2-Day Pass: 16300 Yen (12 years or more) 10600 Yen (4-11 years old) |
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| From Osaka Station take the train on the JR Yumesaki/Sakurajima Line to Universal City Station (15 minutes) |
The Osaka Aquarium is one of the largest and most renowned aquariums in Japan, located in Minato district, Osaka. With its vast collection of sea creatures and several live shows, the aquarium is a popular attraction for families and animal enthusiasts. Among the main attractions are Pacific White dolphins, Japanese seals and penguins. The Osaka Aquarium is an educational and entertaining activity where guests can discover the underwater world of the Pacific and learn to respect and protect the oceans.
663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 9:30-20:00 (times may vary depending on the day, see calendar on official website) Last entry 1 hour before closing time |
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| A few days during the year (see the official website) | |
| 2700 Yen (16-64 years) 1400 Yen (7-15 years) 700 Yen (4-6 years old) Free (up to 3 years old) |
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| 10 minutes’ walk west from Osakako metro station (C11 – Chuo Line) |
Minami (Namba)
The Minami district is one of the liveliest and most popular areas in Osaka. Also known as Namba, it offers a vibrant shopping, dining, bar and entertainment scene. Here you will find large shopping malls such as Namba Parks and Shinsaibashi-suji, a popular shopping street with a wide selection of fashion shops and boutiques. Minami is also famous for its restaurants offering delicious Japanese cuisine, including the famous Dotonbori street food. With its neon lights, cheerful atmosphere and wide selection of attractions, Minami is a must-see for visitors to Osaka.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Get off at JR Namba station, change to Tennoji on the circular line Get off at Namba underground station (Y15, S16, M20) |
Osaka Castle, also known as Osaka-jo in Japanese, is one of Japan’s most famous historical sites. Located in the heart of the city of Osaka, this magnificent castle features a unique roof shape and mighty white walls with gold leaf accents. Built by the famous leader Hideyoshi Toyotomi in the 16th century, Osaka Castle witnessed crucial historical events and today stands as an icon of the pride and perseverance of the Japanese people. In addition to its fascinating history, the castle also offers a breathtaking view of the city and houses a museum tracing its history. For both history lovers and visitors looking for impressive views, Osaka Castle is a must-see during a visit to Osaka.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
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| Castle | |
| 9:00-17:00 Last admission 30 minutes before closing Extended hours during certain periods in spring and summer |
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| 28 December to 1 January | |
| 600 Yen | |
| Nishinomaru Garden | |
| 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (until 4.30 p.m. from November to February) Until 21:00 during cherry blossom time |
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| Monday (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) | |
| 200 Yen (350 Yen during extended hours for cherry blossom) | |
| 20 minutes’ walk west of JR Osakajokoen station on the Osaka circular line 20 minutes’ walk north-west of JR Morinomya station on the Osaka circular line 20 minutes’ walk north-east from Tanimachi 4-chome underground station (T23, C18) 20 minutes’ walk east from Temmabashi Metro Station (T22) |
The Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine in Osaka is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan. Founded in the 3rd century, the structure has been rebuilt numerous times over the centuries, but has never lost its charm and religious importance. The shrine is dedicated to three of the most important kami or spirits in Shintoism, namely the gods of the tides, fishing and sea travel. The shrine offers a unique experience of Japanese spirituality and culture, characterised by typical Japanese architectural design and ancient religious traditions.
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 6:00-17:00 (from 6:30 from October to March) | |
| No closing days | |
| Free | |
| 5 minutes’ walk east from Nankai Sumiyoshi Taisha Station (Nankai Main Line – 10 minutes from Namba Station) Take the tram from Hankai Tennojiekimae Station (Uemachi Line) and get off at Sumiyoshikoen (15 minutes) |
The Shitennoji Temple in Osaka is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan. Founded in the 6th century AD, it has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, but has always retained its religious and spiritual importance. The temple is dedicated to Shitenno, the four Buddhist guardians who protect the world from demons, and was an important centre for the spread of Buddhism in ancient Japan. A visit to Shitennoji offers a wonderful experience of Buddhist spirituality and culture, immersed in an atmosphere of ancient beauty and tranquillity.
663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Inner zone | |
| 8:30-16:30 (until 16:00 from October to March) | |
| No closing days | |
| 300 Yen | |
| Gokuraku-Jodo Garden | |
| 8:30-16:30 (until 16:00 from October to March) Last admission 30 minutes before closing time |
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| Frequent closures, particularly during the first ten days of many months | |
| 300 Yen | |
| Treasure House | |
| 8:30-16:30 (until 16:00 from October to March) | |
| Long closed periods between exhibitions | |
| 500 Yen | |
| 10 minutes’ walk north of JR Tennoji station (on the Osaka circular line) 10 minutes’ walk south of Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka underground station (T26) |
The Osaka Museum of History (Ōsaka Rekishi Hakubutsukan) is one of the most important museums in the Japanese city of Osaka. The museum, located in the northern part of the city, offers an extensive collection of historical artefacts, tools, documents and images that narrate the history and culture of the city. It is divided into several thematic sections, including the Naniwa Kingdom period, the Meiji era, daily life in Osaka and the city’s impact on global history. The museum is a must-see for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of Osaka and Japan in general.
User: (WT-shared) Onyo at wts wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 9:30-17:00 Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
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| Tuesday (or the following day if Tuesday is a national holiday) 28 December to 4 January |
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| 600 Yen (1000 Yen for combined ticket history museum and Osaka Castle Museum) | |
| 20 minutes’ walk west of JR Morinomya station on the circular line 5 minutes’ walk east of Tanimachi 4-chome underground station (T23, C18) |
The Abeno Harukas is a 60-storey skyscraper located in Osaka, Japan. With a height of 300 metres, it is the tallest skyscraper in the country. In addition to being an impressive structure, the building houses a large shopping centre with numerous high-fashion shops, restaurants and an art museum. In addition, the Abeno Harukas also offers a breathtaking view of the city from its observatory located on the highest floor. It is a popular place for tourists who wish to have a unique and panoramic experience of Osaka.
松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Observatory | |
| 9:00-22:00 | |
| No closing days | |
| 2000 Yen | |
| Abeno Harukas Art Museum | |
| 10:00-20:00 (until 18:00 on weekends and national holidays) | |
| Monday (open if Monday is a national holiday) New Year holidays Between exhibitions |
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| Varies depending on the exhibition (see official website) | |
| Shopping centre | |
| 10:00-20:00 (restaurants until 23:00) | |
| No closing days | |
| 2 minutes’ walk south of Tennoji underground station (M23, T27) and JR Tennoji |
Shinsekai, meaning ‘New World’, is a picturesque neighbourhood in Osaka, Japan, known for its old-fashioned architecture, popular culture and liveliness. Built in the 1920s, Shinsekai was inspired by European and Asian architectural styles, creating a unique atmosphere. The district offers a multitude of eateries, including restaurants serving the famous fried Kushikatsu cuisine, souvenir shops and an observatory atop the 103-metre-high Tsūtenkaku Tower that dominates the cityscape.
Kanchi1979, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Tsutenkaku Tower | |
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website (PDF guide) |
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| 8:30-21:30 (entrance until 21:00) Outdoor terrace 10:00-18:00 (until 20:00 on weekends and public holidays) |
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| No closing days | |
| 1000 Yen (additional 300 Yen for the outdoor deck and 1000 Yen for the slide) | |
| Spa World | |
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 10:00-8:45 of the next day | |
| Irregular closures | |
| 2000 Yen (1450 Yen more from midnight to 5:00) | |
| 5 minutes’ walk north-west of JR Shinimamiya station on the Osaka circular line 5 minutes’ walk north of Dobutsuenmae underground station (M22, K19) |
Kita (Umeda)
Kita Umeda is an area located in the northern part of Osaka, Japan, and is one of the city’s main shopping and entertainment destinations. With the large Hankyu Umeda shopping centre and the famous Grand Front Osaka, Kita Umeda is a shopper’s paradise with a wide range of high-fashion shops, specialised boutiques, restaurants and trendy cafés. The area is also well connected and easily accessible via many means of transport, such as train stations and the metro, making it a great starting point for exploring the rest of the city.
J o, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Get off at JR Osaka Station Get off at Umeda underground station (M16) |
Osaka Station City
Osaka Station City is a vast facility located in the Umeda area of Osaka, Japan. This area, which surrounds Osaka Station, is a major transport hub and a place of entertainment and shopping for residents and visitors. Numerous shops, restaurants, shopping centres and hotels are located within Osaka Station City. It is an ideal place to shop, enjoy delicious meals or simply stroll around. Thanks also to the high-quality rail connections, Osaka Station City is considered an ideal starting point for exploring the city and its surroundings.
MASA, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
Bunraku Theatre
The Bunraku Theatre in Osaka is a famous Japanese cultural institution specialising in an ancient style of puppet theatre called Bunraku. Founded in 1747, the Bunraku company has gained an international reputation for its artistic performances, which skilfully combine puppetry, traditional Japanese music and the human voice. Osaka’s Bunraku Theatre, located near the famous Osaka Castle, is a must-see venue for those wishing to discover traditional Japanese art and immerse themselves in its culture.
Mc681, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official page |
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| Bunraku shows are usually held in three weeks in January, April, June, July/August and November. | |
| Ticket prices range from 2000-6000 Yen depending on the performance | |
| 15 minutes’ walk east of JR Namba station 5 minutes’ walk east from Nipponbashi underground station (S17, K17) |
National Art Museum
The Osaka National Museum of Art (Kokuritsu Kokusai Bijutsukan) is one of Japan’s leading art museums and exhibits a large collection of modern and contemporary Japanese and international artworks. Located on the island of Nakanoshima, between the Dōjima and Tosabori rivers, the museum was opened in 1977 and houses about 8,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings and photographs. The museum building was designed by Argentinean architect César Pelli and features a modern and innovative design.
Mc681, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 10:00-17:00 (until 22:00 Friday and Saturday) Friday and Saturday Last admission 30 minutes before closing |
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| Monday (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) Public holidays at the beginning of the year Closure between exhibitions (see official website) |
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| 430 Yen (for permanent collections) Additional price for special exhibitions |
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| 10 minutes’ walk west from Higobashi underground station (Y10) 5 minutes’ walk south-west from Keihan Watanabashi Station |
Minoo Park
Minoo Park is a beautiful natural oasis located just north of Osaka, Japan. This national park is famous for its spectacular 33-metre-high Minoo waterfalls, which attract visitors from all over the country. In addition to the waterfalls, the park offers numerous nature trails, perfect for pleasant walks and hikes. During the autumn leaf season, the park is transformed into a fascinating colourful landscape. Minoo Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of Japan.
Go Imai, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| From Osaka-Umeda(Hankyu) Station take the Hankyu Takarazuka line to Ishibashi Handai-Mae (15 minutes) and then take the Hankyu Minoo line to Minoo Station (5 minutes)
The entire one-way journey takes about 25 minutes and costs 270 Yen and is NOT covered by the Japan Rail Pass |
The Umeda Sky Building is an iconic structure located in the Umeda district of Osaka, Japan. Approximately 173 metres high, this building combines modern architecture with traditional Japanese charm. The main feature of the Umeda Sky Building is the Floating Garden Observatory, a panoramic observation deck that offers a breathtaking view of the city of Osaka. It is the ideal place to admire skyscrapers, the surrounding mountains and the Sea of Japan. The Umeda Sky Building is a must-see for anyone visiting Osaka, day or night.
Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 9:30-22:30 Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
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| No closing days | |
| 1500 Yen | |
| 10 minutes’ walk west from Osaka and Umeda Station. |
Osaka International Peace Center
The Osaka International Peace Centre is a major institution located in Osaka, Japan, dedicated to promoting peace and raising awareness of world peace issues. The centre hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore the horrors of war, the need for peace and the importance of intercultural dialogue. Through interactive exhibits and documentaries, the centre strives to educate visitors about tragic events of the past and to promote mutual understanding and respect. The Osaka International Peace Centre is a place of reflection and hope for a peaceful future.
Bittercup, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| PDF flyer |
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| 9:30-17:00 Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
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| Monday The day after national holidays (except Tuesdays and weekends) Last day of the month 28 December to 4 January |
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| 250 Yen | |
| 5 minutes’ walk west from JR Morinomiya station on the Osaka circular line and the Morinomiya metro station (C19, N20) |
Grand Front Osaka
Grand Front Osaka is a sophisticated shopping and entertainment complex located in the Umeda district of Osaka. This modern facility includes a variety of shops, restaurants, hotels and offices, creating a vibrant urban centre within the city. With its stylish shopping malls, cinemas and concert halls, Grand Front Osaka offers a wide range of experiences for locals and tourists alike. Its avant-garde architecture and cosmopolitan atmosphere make it a must-see attraction for those wishing to immerse themselves in Osaka’s vibrant scene.
Mc681, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
Osaka Science Museum
The Osaka Science Museum, also known as Ōsaka Shiritsu Kagakukan, is a fascinating destination for science lovers of all ages. Located in Osaka, Japan, the museum offers interesting interactive exhibits covering a wide range of scientific topics, such as astronomy, robotics, biology and more. Visitors can explore the different sections of the museum and participate in hands-on activities to learn while having fun. With its interactive workshops and innovative exhibitions, the Osaka Science Museum is an inspiring place that offers fun education for all.
663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 9:30-17:00 Last admission 30 minutes before closing Last planetarium show starts at 16:00 |
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| Monday (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) 28 December to 4 January Other irregular closing days |
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| 400 Yen (Museum) 600 Yen (Planetarium) |
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| 10 minutes’ walk west from Higobashi underground station (Y10) 5 minutes’ walk south-west from Keihan Watanabebashi Station |