Osaka is one of the largest cities in Japan, not to mention one of the most tourist-friendly cities. For centuries, people would go to Osaka just for day trips.
It’s just that kind of city. It’s magnetic.
The question is, what can you do in Osaka? Which things to do are worth your time? We did the research for you.
What Are The Best Things To Do In Osaka?
Every single person is going to have their own choosing when it comes to their Osaka travel plans. Some might want to entertain their kids at a theme park like the ones in Universal Studios Japan. Others might join a food tour Osaka locals run.
Still more might want to check out shopping or local nightlife. Regardless of your tastes, we hope we found at least one new place for you to explore.
Explore Minoo Park
Minoo Park is one of the most popular attractions for nature lovers traveling through Osaka prefecture. It’s easy to see why. During the fall, the foliage starts to turn a beautiful set of fiery reds and oranges.
In summer, you get tons of trails. In spring, it’s a perfect place for a brisk walk or hike. The real draw, though, is Minoo Waterfall, a massive waterfall that has been the subject of countless pictures, paintings, and poems.
It’s also home to the Ryuanji Temple, an elegant temple that is part of a mountain worship sect. It’s old world Japan in a beautiful trail.
Shop Till You Drop At Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street
Are you looking for a place where you can find street food, convenience stores, souvenir stands, and fashion stores all on the same road? Shinsaibashi-suji is the place to go. This 300-year-old shopping district has a canal dividing it, giving it a uniquely beautiful layout.
Restaurants, cafes, and old school shopping can be found here. The people watching in this part of Central Osaka is also one of the best things to experience. You’ll be talking about it long after you’ve finished touring Osaka.
Soak It Up At An Onsen Resort
Ryokans are not your average experience. They are inns (and spa resorts) that are based around natural hot springs found throughout Japan. It just so happens to be that Osaka is home to a number of onsen bath houses.
Spa World is one of the largest hot spring resort complexes in the world. It currently boasts several specially-designed rooms with themes from spas around the world, relaxation rooms, and a full water theme park on the top world.
People don’t just make day trips to go to Spa World. They straight up make a point of staying for weeks here if they can afford to do so.
See Sealife At Osaka Aquarium KAIYUKAN
Fans of ocean biology will end up falling in love with Japan, simply because they have so many aquariums. Osaka is a uniquely popular destination for sealife fans. Why? Because Osaka Aquarium is the biggest aquarium in the world. (Note, it’s also referred to as KAIYUKAN Aquarium by locals.)
They have whale sharks, night time aquarium events, a full otter section as well as a tunnel where you can walk as manta rays swim right past you. It’s not a stretch to call the Osaka Aquarium a national treasure.
Visit The Osaka Castle
If you ask almost any tour guide or traveler what makes Osaka a great place to visit, they will tell you it’s Osaka Castle. This is a ferro-concrete reconstruction of one of the grandest castles to exist in the country.
The castle now acts as a museum, tourist attraction, and homage to traditional Japanese architecture. Oh, and unlike other attractions of its kind, this is a fully modernized castle. There’s even an elevator for the mobility-challenged.
Currently, Osaka Castle Park (and Osaka Castle itself) are the two biggest Central Osaka attractions. Take from that what you will.
Visit Universal Studios Japan
Did you know that Universal Studios has a theme park in Osaka? It’s Universal Studios Japan, and it’s just as thrilling as the park stateside. In fact, many travelers visit Osaka just for this park alone.
Fans of anime, gaming, and comic books are going to want to check this park out. You’ll get to party with Pokemon, visit a Detective Conan center, and also see the Japanese side of this media hotspot.
Oh, but make no mistake about it. Universal Studios happens to have one major attraction that’s hard to beat for book fiends. Harry Potter fans can stroll down Diagon Alley at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park.
That theme park is not adjacent to Universal Studios. It’s actually a park within a park in the heart of Universal Studios Japan!
Strike A Pose In A Purikura (aka Japanese Photo Booth)
There’s a certain level of cool that you can only find in Japanese cities like Tokyo (see these unique restaurants in Tokyo for example) and Osaka. Part of that coolness is the wealth of neon lights, but the other part comes from the fun technology that looks effortlessly chic.
Purikura are Japanese photo booths that let you pose, get tradeable stickers, and also edit your pictures. If you haven’t been in one yet, make sure you do it the moment you hit Japan.
Covered Shopping Streets – Shotengai
Did you ever want to go to an outdoor market, only to have your hopes dashed by rain? Visiting Osaka means that you don’t have to worry about that problem. Close to the city center is Shotengai, an open-air market that still has its own covering.
Covered shopping arcades like this are common throughout Japan, but visiting Osaka means you get access to one of the best. It’s a good place to go if you want to walk in a city or just try some tasty street food.
Go For A Unique Mountain Hike And Trout Fishing Experience
Though Osaka is mostly known for the wild stuff you can find in the city center, the truth is that there is another side to this town that people often forget. Osaka is right next to a mountainside and rivers, which means that you can both hike and fish.
You will need to prep yourself for the trout fishing in Osaka, but it’s highly encouraged. It’s a great way to get back to nature.
Go On A Food Tour At A Festival
Visiting Osaka is a wonderful way to party with your taste buds. You can find amazing street food vendors as well as a legit street food tour. Onigiri, takoyaki, and yakisoba are all commonplace among yatai, street food vendors present during the summer and holidays.
But, why stop there? There is also a very vibrant ramen noodle scene, a poppin’ sushi scene, and an excellent izakaya scene. There are several companies now offering their own food tours, but you can also DIY one of your own with a little research.
There are tons of local food options to try here, including some of the best deep fried tempura that money can buy. Speaking of which…
PRO TIP – If you want to try street vendor food, you are going to have to do some planning. They generally only set up shop during major festivals, such as the ones that happen during cherry blossom season.
Hit Up The Fried Food Capital Of Osaka
Every single major city has a particular treat or dish that is iconic of the region. For Osaka, Japan, it’s Shinsekai’s deep fried goodness known as kushikatsu. Kushikatsu is a deliciously deep fried skewer of meat, vegetables served with dipping sauces.
It’s melty, savory, and an amazing treat. If you are looking for Osaka attractions with a focus on food, find a kushikatsu restaurant to enjoy. It just so happens that Shinsekai is the birthplace of this particular treat.
Visit The Shiteno-ji Temple
History buffs will be happy to know that there are a ton of temples you can find in the Osaka region of Japan. Perhaps one of the most impressive ones is the Shitenoji Temple, also known as the “Temple of the Four Kings.”
This is the oldest officially-administered temple in the entire country. Originally started in 593, Shiteno-ji has become a testament to both Japanese craftsmanship as well as the beauty of the Shinto and Buddhist religions.
If you are a fan of Osaka Castle and similar structures, this temple will be one of the other top Osaka attractions on your day trip list.
Go To The Umeda Sky Building For A Killer Night Time View
It’s no secret that Japan has some of the most impressive views in the world, especially in city areas. In Osaka, the best place to get a view of the entire city is through the Umeda Sky Building.
This building is extremely tall, with over 35 stories to its build. The big pull here is the gorgeous views from the Observation Deck. You can also grab a coffee in the building at Cafe Sky 40 or go shopping at the Sky Building’s indoor mall.
Check Out The Tall Views At The Abeno Haruka Building
Looking for an even taller observation deck? Abeno Haruka is the other major building complex to serve as a hotspot for nighttime views. Abeno Haruka boasts a whopping 62 floors, making it the tallest building in Osaka.
Heck, it was even the tallest building in Japan during the 2010s.
This sky-high skyscraper is a mixed-use building. There are offices, an in-building hotel, restaurants, as well as retail and other lounge areas.
Take A Stroll Through Dotonbori
Dotonburi is Osaka’s top entertainment district, and it truly comes alive at night. This beautiful district is situated right by a canal, making it a Venice-like experience in the heart of Japan.
If you go to Dotonburi, you’re bound to find something you want to do. Bars? Check. Restaurants? Check. Chic shops? Double-check.
It’s an amazing place that will leave you begging for more. Plenty of locals come here for day trips, and once you see it, you’ll understand why.
Check Out The Osaka Science Museum
It’s no secret that Japan is famous for having a deep respect of science and math. After all, you don’t get that reputation in robotics for nothing. Science students can check out Osaka Science Museum to get their daily dose of knowledge.
This museum is very family-friendly and happens to be a perfect place for parents with curious kids to have a day trip. It’s basically a theme park devoted to teaching kids important science concepts.
Popular attractions include their perfume exhibit, exhibits relating to the universe, and a planetarium. Expect kids to fall in love with learning.
Photograph The Tower Of The Sun
Curious about the newest art installations in Osaka? One of the newest attractions in Osaka is the Tower of the Sun. This small art statue was re-opened in 2018 by Taro Okamoto.
It’s a trippy tower that you can actually walk inside. The interior of the tower has a unique “Tree of Life” theme that will look incredible on your Instagram. Trust us, it’s worth the entrance fee.
Roar With Laughter At ROR Comedy Club
Who says you need to know Japanese in order to have fun at a comedy club? When you visit Osaka for the first time, you might be surprised at how much English you see around there. You’ll see it at Osaka Station, most souvenir shop stands, and yes, even in nightlife.
ROR Comedy Club is Osaka’s top English-speaking comedy club. Major names show up to make you laugh here, so if you want to get a giggle in after a day trip, here’s the place to do it. Saturday nights are usually their most popular night.
Learn To Roll Your Own Sushi
Surely, you didn’t expect an entire article about things to do in Osaka without at least one or two classes, right? Many travelers get to take a little cultural knowledge home with them with the help of cooking classes for foreigners.
You can often find these experiences on sites like Airbnb or through a local travel agency. Once you learn how to roll your own, you’ll feel like you truly experienced Japan’s sushi world.
Walk Across The Hoshi No Buranko Suspension Bridge (Or Drive Over Another!)
In the United States, we have several major suspension bridges that have become iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge. In Osaka, the Hoshi no Buranko Bridge is their answer to the iconic landmarks in the US.
Unlike the George Washington Bridge or the Golden Gate Bridge, the Hoshi no Buranko Bridge is not made of steel. This Osaka favorite is actually a wooden suspension bridge—one of the rarest suspension bridges in the world.
It’s over 600 feet long, so if you’ve ever wanted to walk across a suspension bridge, now’s your chance. It’s right by the city limits.
Visit Osaka Station
Yes, Osaka Station is not just one of the busiest train stations in Japan. The first thing you’ll be able to do when you visit Osaka is reach the station.
Osaka Station has multiple sections that make is a great place to explore. For example, you can reach Eki Marche at JR Osaka Station. This is a massive marketplace are with a ton of different shops popular in the Kansai Region.
Even going close to the outside will let you people watch, try new foods, and also find a quick way to places like the Kuromon Ichiba Market.
Try Fresh Seafood At The Kuromon Ichiba Market
Did you ever want to experience old school Asian market shopping? You can in Osaka. Kuromon is one of the most popular covered market venues in the city. You can find a lot of hidden gems here.
While this is mostly a food-oriented place, you can often find cute souvenirs and other Japanese goodies if you search hard enough.
Also, in the subject of food, check out these must know restaurants in Osaka.
Watch The Cherry Blossom Season In Action At Hoshida Park
In Japan, watching the cherry trees blossom is almost a right of passage. Needless to say, going to the right place can help enhance that.
Hoshida Park is a great place to go if you want a special atmosphere while you watch cherry blossoms bloom. This isn’t just a park filled with trees. It’s a spiritual destination that locals make day trips to.
This is actually a shrine to Kobo Daishi, so it’s definitely a relatively quiet place to observe nature in all its beauty.
Go To The Osaka Museum Of History
If you’re trying to visit Osaka as a history buff, this is obviously one of the best things to do in Osaka. This museum is entirely devoted to Japanese history, with a focus on Osaka prefecture.
You can learn about the families behind Osaka Castle’s construction, find out how Edo Period Japan really was like, and uncover the beauty of the Age of Greater Osaka. It’s a cerebral wonderland!
Kick It Up With A Tour Of The Osaka Museum Of Housing And Living
Osaka has never been an entirely traditional part of Japan. The housing and lifestyles here are ever-evolving. This history museum is a great place to learn how locals lived in each major time period.
You can find out what a typical home was like for Osaka families in Edo Japan. Or, you can take a look at the displays of a typical townscape in the Showa Era.
Regardless, you’ll have a newfound love of Japanese architecture here.
Check Into Capsule Hotels, Love Hotels, Party Hostels, Or Luxury Hotels
If you’re not from the area, a typical trip to Osaka starts with a hotel booking. Even if you just stay overnight one night, this can turn into an adventure you’ll talk about for years.
If nothing else, the city of Osaka has a huge array of different hotels that you can choose to spend a night in. Some of them, like love hotels, are only for couples. Others, like capsule hotels, are a unique and affordable way to enjoy a solo stay in the city.
Take In The Sights Around Himeji Castle
While Osaka Castle is the most famous castle in Osaka prefecture, it’s far from the only one. Himeji is there too, and it’s a quick walk from Himeji Station.
Like other major parks on this list, the castle grounds here have plenty of cherry blossoms. It’s a hotspot for hanami, or flower-watching. The castle itself is one of the most beautiful in Japan thanks to its pastel white exterior.
It’s absolutely worth a visit if you want a really pretty sight for the day.
Go To The Only ‘Family Guy’ Themed Bar In The World
Are you a fan of Seth Macfarlane’s Family Guy? If so, you might find this fun. The only Family Guy-themed bar is a foreigner bar in Osaka, Japan! It’s called The Drunken Clam after the iconic bar in Quahog.
It’s considered by many to be one of the best English-speaking bars in Osaka. Considering how exclusive Japan’s nightlife can be, it’s nice to know that travelers can kick back with a beer here without an issue.
Pet Some New Furry Friends At A Cat Or Rabbit Cafe
It’s no secret that Japan was the first country to spearhead the cat cafe trend. But, did you know that it’s now a full genre of cafes?
Depending on which cafe you go to, you can hang out with cats, rabbits, or even other animals. All you need to do is get a coffee and some cake, and you’ll be good to go for petting time.
Take Your Little Ones To Kids Plaza Osaka
If you are traveling with little ones, it’s no secret that you might have a hard time finding something that works with their sensibilities.
Parents who want to give kids a fun time without the high entry fees of a place like Universal Studios Japan might want to check out Kids Plaza. This museum is totally devoted to giving kids a fun time.
Get Artsy At The Nakoshima Museum Of Art
There are a lot of different ways to enjoy the artwork and architecture in Osaka, including touring places like Osaka Castle. Of course, you might be the type of person who yearns for a more traditional way of getting eye candy: art galleries.
The Nakoshima Museum of Art is one of the top art museums in Osaka, and it’s located right in the city center. The museum focuses on Japanese artwork from the 19th century to the present.
Beautiful designs, incredible stories, and some of the most visually stunning modern architecture await you here.