Places to visit in Osaka
Places to Visit in Osaka
Tourist Places to Visit in Osaka
Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Hozenji, Amemura, Namba Yasaka Shrine, Den Den Town, Spa World, Tsutenkaku Tower, Abeno Harukas, Shitenn Ji Temple and many more.
Apart from the vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture and delicious street food, there are numerous great places to visit in Osaka. Located in the Japanese island of Honshu, Osaka is one of the largest port cities and commercial centres in the country. Some of the best Osaka places are the Universal Studios Japan, where you can see the many different film sets and spend a fun-filled day, the Tsutenkaku Tower, one of the oldest towers in Osaka, or the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, which is amongst the largest aquariums in the entire world.
Nicknamed as the “Venice of the East,” Osaka has some of the most beautiful places, including the stunning Osaka Castle, the photogenic shopping street of Dontonbori, the famous Osaka Tenmangu shrine and more. While Osaka may seem like any other metropolitan city at first glance, it has a lot more than just bustling streets, skyscrapers and vibrant signs to offer.
During your holiday here, you can also pay a visit to some of the more unique places to go in Osaka. Some of these places include the arcades at Den Den Town, the huge spa and water park at Spa World or the colourful and busy Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Osaka:
Some of the major attractions of the Osaka Castle include its main tower, which has five stories and is 42 meters tall. It also consists of a museum where you can see exhibits about the castle and the city’s history.
Location: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0002
Timings: 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 600 per person
Besides that, Dotonbori is also known for the many large neon signs and billboards that are displayed here. You can catch the sign of the famed Glico Maker here, in addition to other unique signs which are reflected in the waters every night.
Location: Dotonbori, Namba, Chuo-ku Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Hozenji
Locals, as well as tourists from all over the world, come to Hozenji to pray and pay their respects to Fudomyoo, the Japanese god of protection. They also visit the temple on their way to the bars and izakaya on the adjacent street of Hozenji Yokocho.
Location: 1-2-16, Namba, Chuo-ku Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Amemura
Visit Amemura, often called Amerikamura or the American Village, is a hamlet of Osaka that is teeming with interesting characters and bright energy. This hip neighbourhood is a mix of fashion, culture, and nightlife that makes it attractive to both locals and tourists.
Here, you can explore the avenues adorned with trendy stores, secondhand bookstores, pubs, and eateries, each providing a distinctive experience. The landmark Triangle Park, which features a Statue of Liberty model, attracts skateboarders and adventure seekers, contributing to the lively ambience of the neighbourhood.
What is striking is the fact that this massive lion head in the shrine has its teeth all bare, giving a unique view. Located in the Namba district of Osaka, this is worshipped as the tutelary shrine of the region and has a height of 12 metres.
Location: 2-9-19, Motomachi, Naniwa-ku Osaka, Japan
Timings: 06:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
If you are in Osaka and looking for otaku paraphernalia, souvenirs and knick-knacks, this is the place to be. From anime and manga comics and cards, to gifts, stationery and even costumes, Den Den Town has it all.
Location: Nipponbashi, Naniwa-ku Osaka, Japan
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Spa World consists of a huge spa as well as a gigantic water park. While the around-the-world-themed bathing spas are some of the major attractions of Spa World, it also consists of many thrilling water slides and rides.
Location: 3-4-24, Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Entry Fee: ¥ 1,000 onwards
Completed in 1956, the Tsūtenkaku is known to offer some of the most spectacular views of the city of Osaka. The Tsūtenkaku tower also has an observation level on the fifth floor, in addition to a shrine of the God of Happiness.
Location: Chrome-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 500 per person
Here, you can enjoy views of the city from large floor-to-ceiling glass panels, enjoy a cuppa at the inner court with a café and wooden deck, or buy some souvenirs from back home from the souvenir shop or Abeno Harukas Kintetsu Department Store.
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 1,500 per person
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Shitenno-ji Temple is the oldest Buddhist official temple in Japan and was founded by Prince Shotoku Taishi. He played a pivotal role in introducing Buddhist culture to the country and formed the temple in 593. The building was continuously destroyed over the years due to fire. But it has been rebuilt with a few current buildings dating back to the 1970s.
Discover the wonder of Universal Studios Japan, the first Universal Studios location in Asia. It features a colourful assortment of iconic characters, including Spider-Man, Hello Kitty, and Shrek, and its appeal surpasses even Tokyo Disney Resort. Exhilarating rides, immersive movie simulators, and mesmerising parades guarantee nonstop enjoyment for guests of all ages. Thus, enter a world where magic meets science, where surprises await around every corner.
Osaka Station City is a bustling transportation hub and shopping complex in Osaka, Japan. Featuring modern architecture, it houses numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The rooftop garden offers a serene escape, while the panoramic views from the observatory provide a stunning perspective of the city's vibrant skyline.
The Floating Garden Observatory, or Sky Garden, is located between the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka's Umeda District. The observatory spans three floors—39th, 40th, and rooftop—acting as a bridge between the tower, situated 173 metres high. The bridge is well famed for providing its visitors with an unobstructed 360-degree view of Osaka, stretching further on until Awaji Island. A visit to this spectacular observatory is often included in many Japan packages.
The Umeda district in Osaka is a bustling urban center and a key commercial hub, offering a dynamic blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Towering skyscrapers, including the Umeda Sky Building, dominate the skyline, providing panoramic views of the city. Umeda is renowned for its extensive underground shopping malls, such as Osaka Station City and Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory, offering a plethora of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Dotonbori Zaza in Hakodate is a captivating blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern entertainment. Nestled in the heart of the city, this vibrant district offers a myriad of attractions, including bustling shopping streets, neon-lit billboards, and mouth-watering street food stalls.
Dotonbori Tsuribori, situated in Osaka's vibrant Dotonbori district, offers a unique and entertaining fishing experience right in the heart of the city. This indoor fishing pond allows visitors to try their hand at catching fish amidst the bustling urban atmosphere of one of Japan's most famous entertainment areas.
Ebisu Bridge is an iconic landmark in Tokyo, spanning the Sumida River and connecting Asakusa to the Asahi Beer Hall. It offers picturesque views of the Tokyo Skytree and is a popular spot for photographers and tourists. The bridge is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with nearby restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues attracting visitors seeking a lively atmosphere.
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Hokoku Shrine, located in Osaka Castle Park, is a serene sanctuary dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a renowned samurai and politician of Japan's feudal era. Surrounded by lush greenery, the shrine offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can pay homage to Hideyoshi's legacy and admire the tranquil beauty of the surroundings
Hozenji Yokocho, nestled in Osaka's bustling Namba district, is a charming alleyway steeped in history and culture. Lined with traditional izakayas and quaint shops, it offers a glimpse into old Japan. The highlight is the serene Hozenji Temple, where visitors can experience a unique ritual of washing statues with water for good luck. This hidden gem exudes a nostalgic ambiance amidst the urban frenzy.
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The teamLab Borderless Botanical Garden in Osaka is a mesmerizing blend of art, technology, and nature. It immerses visitors in a surreal world where digital art and real plants coexist harmoniously. The garden features interactive installations that respond to visitors' movements, creating a dynamic and engaging experience. Visitors can wander through illuminated corridors, vibrant flower fields, and enchanted forests, all brought to life through innovative digital projections and light displays. The teamLab Borderless Botanical Garden in Osaka offers a unique and immersive journey that transcends traditional notions of art and nature, leaving visitors enchanted and inspired by its boundless creativity.
The Osaka Museum of History stands as a captivating tribute to the rich cultural heritage and vibrant history of Japan's second-largest city. Nestled within the picturesque Osaka Castle Park, this architectural marvel offers visitors a journey through time, from the city's ancient roots to its modern-day dynamism. With its immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and meticulous attention to detail, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Osaka's evolution, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
One of the highlights of the Osaka Museum of History is its innovative approach to storytelling. Rather than presenting history as a series of static exhibits, the museum brings the past to life through dynamic multimedia presentations, lifelike recreations, and engaging narratives. Visitors can step back in time to explore Osaka's feudal era, stroll through bustling streets of Edo-period Japan, and witness the city's transformation into a thriving modern metropolis.
The museum was established in the late 1980s, and is home to many practical and interactive science-related exhibits. You can find everything here, from astronomy to energy and even the first planetarium of Japan.
Location: 4 Chome-2-1 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005
Timings: 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 300 onwards
Mino Park is a forested valley located in Osaka, a little far away from the concrete jungle. This is one of the most sought after places in the Kansai region to admire the autumn colours at its best. During autumn, the park comes alive with its fall colours amidst the temples and gardens, especially in the second half of November.
Timings: 9AM to 8:30 PM
Entry fees: ¥ 36
This platform at the top is the main attraction of the tower, and offers scintillating views of the city located over 170 metres down below. The tower also has a rooftop observatory and garden, known as the Floating Garden Observatory, in addition to an urban garden at its base and an underground market that resembles the early 20th century Osaka.
Location: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023
Timings: 09:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 1500 for adults, ¥ 700 for children
Ride aboard the Tempozan Ferris Wheel and set out on a journey above the busy streets of Osaka. Constructed in 1997, this recognisable landmark towers over Tempozan Harbour Village. Take a seat in your covered gondola and get ready for an amazing flight through the skies. Admire the expansive views of the city as you rise to a height of 369 feet.
Topping the list of some of the most unique Osaka beautiful places is the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. With a structure that resembles giant blocks of Lego, this aquarium is one of the biggest in the world. It is here where you can see several thousand marine and other wildlife species not just from Japan, but also from Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean, the Great Barrier Reef as well as the Monterey Bay.
The museum opened its doors in 1977, and is home to a large collection of works by some of the leading international artists, especially from the post-war period. You can also find works of Cézanne, Picasso, Kuniyoshi and Foujita here.
Location: 4 Chome-2-55 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005
Timings: 09:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 430 per person
You can also find a life-sized replica of Japan in the Edo Period, complete with the traditional homes, streets, buildings and décor of that time.
Location: 6-4-20, Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku Osaka, 530-0041, Japan
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 04:30 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 600 onwards
If all the activity at Tenjinbashisuji makes you feel overwhelmed, you can stop at the adjacent Osaka Tenmangu Shrine for a moment of relaxation. Discovering a tranquil sanctuary in the middle of the city here in the Kita neighborhood is like discovering an oasis. You could be lucky enough to visit during the Tenjin Matsuri festival, which promises to be an experience you will never forget.
One of the best attractions of this park is the presence of almost 5000 cherry blossom trees, which add to its immense beauty. You can also see some of the original installations from the Expo here, such as the Tower of the Sun, the Dream Pond or even a huge Japanese landscape garden.
Location: 1-1 Senri Banpaku Koen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan
Timings: 09:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 260 per person
This shrine is the main shrine of over 2000 Sumiyoshi shrines scattered across Japan. It is home to the Kami (Shinto gods) who are said to protect the travellers, sailors and fishermen going to the sea.
Location: 2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan
Timings: 06:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Nakanoshima Park is a waterfront park located between the Dojimagawa and Tosaborigawa rivers. This is a park that resembles an urban oasis and is also the first public park in Osaka. Established in 1891, it also takes pride in being the first beer garden of Osaka. The park comes with a range of recreation activities along with places to just sit and unwind.
You go on a sensory adventure through a busy tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavours as you stroll along Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street in Osaka. This arcade is said to be Japan's longest, stretching an amazing 2.6 kilometres. Wandering through it could easily take a whole morning or more! Hidden gems can be found off the main street on the side roads that are full of artisanal stalls, cute restaurants, and charming shops.
The park opened in 1915 and also has a zoo, where you can see animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, and even hippos. The zoo also has a separate reptile house, with different types of reptiles that are sure to give you goosebumps.
Location: 1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Timings: 09:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Entry Fee: ¥ 200 onwards
Osaka Reviews
Osaka FAQ's
Which are the best places to visit in Osaka?
2. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: One of the largest aquariums in the world, in addition to being amongst the top places to visit, this aquarium is home to several thousands of marine species. You can catch a glimpse of native mammals, freshwater species, fish as well as reptiles not just from Japan, but also from the Pacific Ocean, Antarctica, Great Barrier Reef and Monterey Bay.
3. The Tempozan Ferris Wheel: This is one of the best places to go in Osaka if you wish to enjoy stunning vistas of the city, along with that of the Osaka port area and the Tempozan Harbour Village. Considered to be among the greatest Ferris wheels in all of Asia, this wheel is over 100 metres tall and has transparent bottom cars for a more adventurous experience.
What are the best things to do in Osaka?
2. Indulge in culinary delicacies: Osaka is a hub for food lovers. In addition to being home to beautiful places, Osaka is also rich in food. Some of the signature dishes you must try here include the Takoyaki, Ramen, Sushi, Kitsune Udon, and more.
3. Enjoy sightseeing and exploring the museums: There is no dearth of Osaka beautiful places, and some of the best attractions here are the many museums in the city. Learn about the history, culture and traditions of Japan from the famous museums in Osaka, such as the Osaka Castle Museum, National Museum of Art, Abeno Harukas Art Museum and the Osaka Museum of Natural History, among others.
What should I not miss in Osaka?
2. Visit the historic Osaka Castle
3. Indulge in traditional ramen and sushi, along with Kansai style Sukiyaki at Kitamura
4. Marvel at the thousands of marine creatures at Kaiyukan Aquarium
5. Spend a thrilling day at Spa World
6. Capture the neon billboards and road signs at Dotonbori
Is Osaka Japan worth visiting?
Yes, Osaka in Japan is definitely a place that is worth visiting. Known as the third largest city in Japan, Osaka is famous for its rich culture and history. It also boasts of some of the best nightlife, food as well as shopping districts in Japan, in addition to a wide range of sightseeing attractions that make it a place worth visiting.
Is 3 days in Osaka enough?
3 days is the minimum amount of time that you require for Osaka. In addition to visiting some of the major attractions of the city, 3 days are enough for enjoying the Spa World, Kaiyukan Aquarium as well as other places.
How many days are enough to visit Osaka
Three to four days are ideal for exploring Osaka. You can spend a day visiting Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Kuromon Market and another day at Universal Studios Japan. Further, you can dedicate a day to exploring Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and the Umeda Sky Building. You can extend your stay to 5-7 days for a more comprehensive tour.
What is the best time to visit Osaka?
The best time to visit Osaka is spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful scenery. Autumn offers pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summers are hot and humid reaching 28°C to 35°C but festivals like Tenjin Matsuri make it lively.
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