Osaka, considered the western capital of Japan, attracts millions of tourists from all over the world every year and is often described as a more “relaxed” city compared to its sister city, Tokyo.
Between mouthwatering local dishes, neon lights, amusement parks, and shopping streets, you’re sure to find something to do in this electrifying city.
If you’re planning a trip to Osaka in 2024 and are unsure of what to see, check out this list where I’ve compiled the 25 must-have experiences for your travel itinerary.
1. Universal Studios Japan
If you’re a theme park enthusiast, you can’t miss Universal Studios Japan, the most visited park in all of Japan along with Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea.
Among the most famous themed attractions you can find Jurassic Park, Waterworld, Amity Village, Minion Park and an entire area dedicated to the magical world of Harry Potter, where you can walk through the streets of Diagon Alley and visit Hogwarts Castle!
There are many special events, depending on the season and holidays, such as Halloween and Christmas. It will be hard to resist shopping at one of the many official stores in the park!
2. Osaka Castle
The symbol of Osaka and one of the largest castles in all of Japan.
Osaka Castle, a symbol of the Azuchi-Momoyama period, was built in 1583 by order of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, one of the greatest military leaders in Japanese history and one of the three unifiers of the Kingdom of Japan.
The castle is located in the center of Osaka and is a popular tourist destination. It is a five-story wooden structure with a height of 58 meters. The castle is surrounded by a moat and gardens.
Visitors to the castle can explore the various rooms and exhibits, including the Tenshukaku (main keep), the Osaka Castle Museum, and the Osaka Castle Park.
3. Dotonbori
When it comes to Osaka, you can’t help but think of the famous Dotonbori district.
Located in the Minami area, in the Namba district, this district encapsulates the very spirit of Osaka, with its neon lights, restaurants, and famous advertising signs (like the Glico Running Man).
It’s practically impossible to get bored when walking through the streets of this lively district.
I recommend staying in the Minami area when you visit Osaka. You can also read the complete guide I wrote on where to stay in Osaka.
This district is very central and well connected to all the main attractions of the city.
4. Kaiyukan Osaka Acquarium
One of the largest aquariums in the world, Kaiyukan in Osaka is home to over 500 species of marine life. Located at the Tempozan Harbor Village shopping center in Osaka Bay, the aquarium has a total of 15 tanks.
The largest tank measures an impressive 34m x 9m, which you can admire from various points and on multiple levels. Inside, there are hundreds of fish, but the real attraction is the whale sharks. A truly breathtaking sight.
5. Try Local Food
When you visit Osaka, you must try the local delicacies, after all we’re talking about the capital of Japanese street food!
Some famous Japanese dishes originated right here, such as Takoyaki (octopus dumplings), Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes), Ibayaki (squid pancakes), etc.
You can find the quintessential Osaka foods just about anywhere, but I recommend going to the stalls along the streets, where the prices are quite reasonable and the quality is still high.
If you want to try high-end cuisine, Osaka also offers a wide variety of top-level restaurants, including Michelin-starred ones. If the restaurant is very famous, you usually need to make a reservation several months in advance. Read the guide on how to book restaurants in Japan.
6. Shinsekai
The old downtown area of Osaka, Shinsekai allows you to soak in the most authentic and nostalgic atmosphere of the city.
Walking through the retro streets of the Shinsekai district will be like being transported back in time, and it’s hard to resist the temptation to photograph every single detail.
The Tsutenkaku Tower, built in 1912, is the symbol of the neighborhood and from it you can admire a panoramic view of the area.
7. Pokemon Cafe di Osaka
A must-visit destination for all Pokémon fans or anyone who simply wants to take a nostalgic dive into the past.
Visit the Pokémon Center DX Osaka to find tons of unique merchandise and don’t miss the themed cafe.
8. Shitennoji Temple
One of the oldest temples in all of Japan, Shitennoji Temple was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku.
The temple also has a charming Japanese-style garden and inside you’ll find many historical artifacts.
9. Tempozan Ferris Wheel
One of the largest Ferris wheels in Japan, standing at 112.5 meters tall. Located at the Tempozan Harbour Village shopping center, next to the aquarium, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel offers a great view of Osaka and the surrounding area.
10. Shinsaibashi
If you’re looking for the best shopping district in Osaka, Shinsaibashi is the place for you. It’s a 600-meter long shopping arcade, full of department stores and famous luxury boutiques.
11. Osaka Expo Park
The vast Osaka Expo Park is located about 20km from central Osaka. It was opened in the 1970s for the Osaka Expo and has since become a popular tourist destination.
Many visitors come here each year to admire the “Tower of the Sun”, created by the famous Japanese artist Taro Okamoto.
A visit is particularly recommended during the cherry blossom season in spring and the fall foliage season.
12. Umeda Sky Building
One of Osaka’s most iconic buildings, you can’t miss the Umeda Sky Building when walking through the city streets.
13. America Mura
American Village, also known as America Mura, is where you will find everything considered fashionable by the young people of Osaka, with numerous shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
Compared to the Harajuku district in Tokyo, America Mura is the ideal destination if you’re looking for a trendy shop for shopping.
14. Namba Yasaka Shrine
Also known as the “Lion Shrine”, Namba Yasaka is undoubtedly one of the most unique shrines in Japan, with its incredible 12-meter-tall lion head statue.
Built in 1975, the shrine attracts many tourists who come to photograph it. Many locals come here to ask for a bit of luck for school exams and work matters.
15. Hoshida Park
The ideal place if you’re looking for a hiking activity around Osaka.
The main feature of the park is its 280-meter-long wooden bridge, which attracts many tourists in search of the best panoramic viewpoint to admire the red leaves in autumn.
16. Abeno Harukas
Opened as a commercial building in 2014, Abeno Harukas is Osaka’s tallest building, standing at 300 meters high.
On floors 58-60 you can find the “Harukas 300” observatory that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. The visit is particularly recommended in the evening.
17. Kuromon Market
One of the largest markets in Japan, Kuromon Ichiba has over 190 years of history and is the ideal place to find all kinds of food products.
The market is very popular with Osaka citizens, including many chefs who come here to buy fresh ingredients for their restaurants.
18. Mozu Tombs
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, the Mozu Tombs are a group of ancient tombs in the city of Sakai, Osaka, dating back between the 3rd and 6th centuries.
19. Bar Tour
A trip to Osaka is not complete unless you’ve spent an evening at one of the many izakayas (informal bars) in the city.
If you don’t know what izakayas are, imagine a kind of informal bar where you can drink alcoholic beverages and eat local foods, usually in small portions. An excellent way to explore the local food culture and nightlife.
For this type of activity, I recommend buying a guided food tour, especially if you’re traveling solo. It could be a great way to meet new people from around the world while discovering Osaka’s best little restaurants with a local guide.
20. Osaka History Museum
The Osaka History Museum is located near Osaka Castle, near Tanimachiyonchome Station.
Especially recommended for Japanese history enthusiasts interested in exploring the origins of Osaka.
21. Instant Ramen Museum
A museum dedicated to a true 100% Japanese phenomenon: instant ramen.
Among giant replicas and other curious exhibits, this museum will tell you everything you need to know about the famous invention of Momofuku Ando.
The museum also offers the opportunity to create a personalized version of the famous Cup Noodles that you can take home as a souvenir.
22. Attend a Baseball Game
Attending a baseball game is an excellent way to experience Japanese sports culture up close.
The season runs every year from March to September, and the Hanshin Koshien Stadium in Osaka hosts many exciting games.
23. Tea Ceremony
If you haven’t had the chance to participate in a tea ceremony in the other cities of Japan you’ve visited, especially in Kyoto, don’t worry! You can also participate in one of Japan’s oldest and most characteristic activities in Osaka.
Learning to prepare matcha and perhaps traditional Japanese sweets cannot be missing from your list of things to do.
24. Local Souvenir
If you don’t want to leave Osaka without stocking up on souvenirs, I recommend going to one of the many shops in the Dotonbori district, where you won’t have any trouble finding a unique souvenir to take home.
25. Winter Lights
If you’re planning to visit Osaka during the winter months, don’t miss the fantastic illuminations scattered throughout the city, especially those at Kaiyukan Aquarium, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios, and Midosuji Boulevard.
Visiting Osaka: Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need to visit Osaka?
You would need at least 2 days to visit Osaka, but it depends entirely on your preferences. If you are short on time, you can take a day trip to Osaka, perhaps during your stay in Kyoto. On the other hand, if you have more time at your disposal, you will have plenty to explore, even for a whole week.
What is Osaka famous for?
Osaka offers many attractions that draw tourists from all over the world, and one of the main reasons is surely its culinary scene. If you want to try the best Japanese street food in the country, you should add Osaka to your itinerary. In addition, the city has a much more relaxed atmosphere than Tokyo, and it is fascinating to discover this unique side of the Japanese people who live in this area.
What to do in Osaka in one day?
There are many things you can explore in Osaka in one day, but the most important are surely Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Universal Studios Japan, Shinsekai, and Shitennoji Temple.
[…] Next 25 Must-See and Do Activities in Osaka Guides, Japan, Osaka […]
[…] before tackling the climb, bullet trains offer a swift connection from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Kyoto to various destinations in Shizuoka Prefecture. Shin-Fuji Station is a […]
[…] a more traditional side of Japan, compared to the big, bright and uber-modern cities of Tokyo and Osaka. With its historic streets, serene temples and an abundance of natural wonders on its doorstep, […]
[…] I was in when I organized my first trip to Japan: you want to explore Tokyo, but also visit Osaka and Kyoto! So many things to see, so few days… […]