10 best things to do in Osaka, Japan
Although Osaka is just a one-hour train ride from Kyoto it could not be more different from the ancient capital. The vibe is completely different, I could feel it right after walking out of Osaka station. It is a buzzing port city, with many things to do and see, one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations. Osaka’s heart, the lively entertainment district, Dotonbori is famous for its neon lights, extravagant signs, and vibrant nightlife. The city is often called the “Kitchen of Japan” due to its rich food culture and delicious street food, like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
Here’s a guide to the 10 best things to do in Osaka, Japan, to help you make the most of your trip.
Contents
- #1 Visit the iconic Osaka Castle
- #2 Explore Universal Studios Japan
- #3 Stroll Through Dotonbori
- #4 Admire the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
- #5 Shop ‘Til You Drop in Shinsaibashi
- #6 Visit Umeda Sky Building
- #7 Make Your Own Cup Noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum
- #8 Check out Namba Yasaka Shrine’s huge lion-head-shaped stage
- #9 Try Street Food at Kuromon Ichiba Market
- #10 Explore Sumiyoshi Taisha, a shrine dating back to the 3rd century
#1 Visit the Iconic Osaka Castle
The no. 1 thing to do in Osaka is visiting Osaka Castle. The castle, surrounded by lush gardens, is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. It is just a short 15 minutes walk away from Temmabashi Station. If you are coming from Kyoto with the Keihan Main Line you can get off at Temmabashi Station and start your day at Osaka Castle.
Osaka Castle, originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the late 16th century. The castle has been rebuilt and renovated multiple times after being destroyed during various wars, but it remains a symbol of strength and resilience in Japanese history.
The last reconstruction is quite recent, therefore the building you see is not very old. If you want to visit an original Japanese castle I recommend Himeji Castle in Himeji or Nijo Castle in Kyoto nearby.
However, Osaka Castle is a very good place especially for people interested in history as it is a huge museum full of unique artifacts such as original samurai armor and blades. You can learn about the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the unification of Japan in the museum.
Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city, and take in the historical exhibits inside the castle museum. It’s stunning during cherry blossom season when the surrounding park transforms into a sea of pink blooms. I was there on a rainy day and the dark clouds contrasted beautifully with the golden roof decoration.
#2 Explore Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan is one of the top attractions in Osaka. Located in the Konohana district, this exciting theme park features attractions from popular franchises like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Minions. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a fun day out.
Tips:
- Arrive very early as queues can get long. People queue up from 5-6AM at the entrance.
- When you’re in get to Super Nintendo World and Wizarding World of Harry Potter as soon as possible. These are the most popular attractions and can get very crowded later on.
- Make a plan in advance based on the map of the park, and know what you want to visit.
- Once you are in the theme park, book timed entry slots using the Universal App.
#3 Stroll Through Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a must-visit place, this was my favorite part in Osaka. Neon lights, food stalls, and shops everywhere – this place never sleeps. Stroll along the canal and check out the view from the bridges. Ebisubashi Bridge gives you great views. You can hop on a boat as well and enjoy the ride among the huge neon lights. Walking around in this neighborhood and trying street food here is one of the best things to do in Osaka.
Don’t miss the iconic Glico Man sign or the giant mechanical crab outside the Kani Doraku restaurant. You can find plenty of food here. We grabbed a 10 yen-shaped pastry filled with cheese, it was one of the best snacks I had in Japan. Takoyaki, the famous octopus balls is also a must-eat here. Resturants here often have huge plastic food replicas displayed, so it won’t be challenging to find the food you are looking for.
#4 Admire the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
The Osaka Aquarium, known as Kaiyukan, is one of the largest aquariums in the world and a must-see for animal lovers. Home to over 30,000 marine animals, including whale sharks, sea otters, and penguins, the aquarium’s exhibits are designed to showcase the unique ecosystems of the Pacific Rim.
Tip: The aquarium is huge, so wear comfortable shoes and plan on spending at least a couple of hours exploring.
The main highlight of Kaiyukan is the gigantic central tank, which is one of the largest in the world. This tank houses a variety of marine life, including the awe-inspiring whale shark, the largest fish in the world, as well as manta rays, large tuna, and other Pacific Ocean species.
There is many things to do and see in the Aquarium. Kaiyukan is divided into 15 different themed zones, each representing a different environment from the world’s oceans, rivers, and forests. You experience the underwater world through immersive shows in Kaiyukan’s 3D theater.
Do you plan to visit Kyoto as well?
–> How to meet a true geisha in Kyoto? – Guide for all budgets
–> The 7 best kimono rentals in Kyoto unveiled – Compare shops
–> The best 3-day Kyoto itinerary options – Ultimate Guide
#5 Shop 'Til You Drop in Shinsaibashi
If shopping is high on your Osaka itinerary, head to Shinsaibashi, the city’s most famous shopping street. With everything from luxury brand stores to quirky boutiques, Shinsaibashi offers a great mix of shopping options. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Amerikamura district for unique fashion finds and trendy cafes.
If you’re looking for some fun and unusual experiences, here are a few quirky places you shouldn’t miss in the area:
- Tokyu Hands: This Japanese department store is a one-stop shop for everything from DIY supplies to quirky gadgets, stationery, and home decor. It’s packed with unexpected and fun finds, including unique kitchen gadgets, arts and crafts materials, and unusual toys. It’s the kind of place where you’ll always stumble upon something unexpected!
- Village Vanguard: A chain of quirky bookstores, Village Vanguard is packed with strange, funny, and creative products. You can find everything from novelty items like quirky socks and bizarre plush toys to unique home accessories and art books. It’s perfect if you are looking for unusual souvenirs.
- The Kawaii Monster Cafe Osaka: Located near Shinsaibashi, this quirky cafe is a surreal wonderland full of colorful, monstrous décor and bizarre menu items.
Tip: For a more authentic experience, try picking up some traditional Japanese goods, such as yukatas or local sweets.
#6 Visit the Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building is one of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its Floating Garden Observatory. Located in the Umeda district, the observatory provides a 360-degree view of Osaka’s skyline, Osaka Bay, and beyond, making it especially magical at sunset and nighttime. Visitors can also enjoy the Sky Walk, an outdoor walkway at the top of the building, and explore the building’s striking architecture, which features two towers connected by a futuristic floating garden. Additionally, there are dining options, shopping, and photo zones, making it an enjoyable destination for both sightseeing and relaxation.
To get to Umeda Sky Building, you can easily reach it by subway, train, bus, or taxi from Umeda Station or JR Osaka Station, both located within walking distance. The building is open daily, with the observatory open from 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM, offering a unique experience for visitors. Whether you’re there to admire the stunning views, enjoy the architecture, or dine in style, Umeda Sky Building is a must-visit attraction in Osaka.
#7 Make Your Own Cup Noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum
Who doesn’t love a cup of instant ramen? Now you can make your own and learn about the man behind this popular food, Momofuku Ando. The Cup Noodles Museum Osaka located in the Ikeda district, lets visitors design their cup by selecting the flavors and toppings they want to add to their noodle creation. The process is simple and enjoyable: first, you choose your favorite noodle base—such as chicken, shrimp, or curry—and then you pick from a wide variety of toppings like vegetables, eggs, and even special seasonings. Once your cup is designed, you get to fill it with noodles, seal it, and take home your very own personalized cup of noodles as a unique souvenir. If you are looking for a fun thing to do in Osaka, don’t miss this museum.
The experience is a fun and educational look into the world of instant noodles, with a chance to learn about the history of Cup Noodles and their inventor, Momofuku Ando. The museum itself is filled with exhibits showcasing the development of instant ramen over the years, including a walk-through timeline and a visual display of the global impact of Cup Noodles.
#8 Check out Namba Yasaka Shrine's huge lion head-shaped stage
One of Osaka’s lesser-known gems, Namba Yasaka Shrine, is famous for its massive lion-shaped stage. The large, sculpted lion head, which serves as the shrine’s main stage, is an incredible sight—its wide-open mouth makes for a dramatic backdrop. This unique shrine is a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle and offers a fascinating photo opportunity.
Namba Yasaka Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in the Namba district of Osaka, with a history dating back over 1,300 years. It was originally established in the 5th century during the reign of Emperor Keitai, though the current structure was rebuilt in the 18th century. The shrine is famous for its striking lion-shaped stage, which is said to protect visitors from evil spirits and bring good fortune. The shrine is dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the Shinto god of storms and seas, and has long been a place of worship for residents.
#9 Try Street Food at Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kuromon Ichiba Market is a bustling food market located in the heart of Osaka, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings of fresh seafood, meats, fruits, and local delicacies. Often referred to as “Osaka’s kitchen,” the market is a must-visit place in Osaka. As you stroll through the market’s narrow alleys, you’ll find a wide variety of stalls selling fresh sushi, tempura, takoyaki (octopus balls), grilled seafood, and more. Kuromon Market is also famous for its high-quality wagyu beef, fresh fish, and seasonal fruits, providing visitors with an authentic taste of Osaka’s best food.
Some must-try foods at Kuromon Ichiba include takoyaki, crispy octopus-filled balls often served with takoyaki sauce and bonito flakes, and kushiage, skewered and deep-fried meats and vegetables. You can also try uni (sea urchin) and fresh sashimi at one of the market’s seafood stalls or grab a bite of okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with pork, seafood, and vegetables. To get to Kuromon Market, take the Midosuji Subway Line to Namba Station and then walk about 5-10 minutes to the market. Alternatively, you can take the Sennichimae Subway Line to Nippombashi Station, which is just a short walk away from the market entrance.
#10 Explore Sumiyoshi Taisha, a shrine dating back to the 3rd century
Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of Osaka’s oldest and most significant Shinto shrines, dating back over 1,800 years. One of the quieter, relaxing things to do in Osaka is visiting this beautiful shrine. Located in the Sumiyoshi area, the shrine is dedicated to the Sumiyoshi Sanjin, the gods of sea and travel, making it a popular spot for those seeking protection on their journeys. The shrine is famous for its unique architectural style, known as Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is characterized by simple, straight lines and a lack of influence from Chinese or Buddhist designs. The most iconic feature of Sumiyoshi Taisha is its taiko-bashi bridge, a distinctive red, arched bridge that spans over a serene pond. The shrine is also known for its beautiful grounds, with tranquil walking paths, lush greenery, and small shrines scattered throughout the area.
To get to Sumiyoshi Taisha, take the Nankai Electric Railway from Namba Station to Sumiyoshi Taisha Station (about a 10-minute ride), and from there, it’s just a short walk to the shrine. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds, visit the main hall, and take a stroll across the taiko-bashi bridge. The shrine is also home to a museum showcasing artifacts related to the shrine’s long history. Sumiyoshi Taisha is particularly beautiful during the New Year season when locals come to pray for good fortune, but it offers a peaceful retreat year-round, with an atmosphere of reverence and serenity.
