Looking for something new in Osaka? The city has unveiled 10 spectacular attractions that are changing the urban landscape.
Immerse yourself in interactive art, shop at unique concept malls, or feel your heart race on Japan’s most exciting outdoor adventures.
These fresh spots showcase the perfect blend of tradition and innovation that makes Osaka special. 😊
1. Grand Green Osaka South Wing
a. What Makes It Special
- Opening Date: Grand Green Osaka South Wing opens on March 21, 2025.
- Easy Access: Located next to Osaka Station, it’s easy to reach on foot.
- Large Urban Park: Umekita Park is right outside, with grassy areas, gardens, and plenty of space to relax.
- Eye-catching Design: It has a unique, curved canopy created by famous architects, making it a popular spot for photos.
- Everything in One Place: You can enjoy shopping, dining, a hotel, spa, and cultural attractions all in the same building.
b. Highlights and Facilities
- Many Shops: There are over 50 stores selling clothes, beauty products, gadgets, and gifts.
- On-site Hot Spring Spa: Relax in natural hot springs, jacuzzis, and an infinity pool overlooking Osaka.
- Time Out Market Osaka: A large food hall with well-known Osaka restaurants, perfect for tasting local dishes in one place.
- Hankyu Gran Respire Hotel: A comfortable, upscale hotel located conveniently inside the building.
c. Delicious Dining Choices
- Time Out Market Osaka: Try dishes from popular local chefs, including ramen, sushi, and international foods.
- Grand Chefs’ Valley: Small, exclusive restaurants offering high-quality Japanese cuisine.
- Umekita Grand Tables: Ideal for groups, offering steak, Italian dishes, Japanese eel, and more.
- International Choices: You can also find casual Western food and Hawaiian cafés if you prefer familiar tastes.
d. Exciting Things to See and Do
- Relax in the Park: Walk, picnic, or unwind under the modern canopy. Enjoy beautiful views of Umeda’s skyline, especially at sunset.
- Visit Museum VS.: Explore a modern museum designed by architect Tadao Ando, featuring changing art exhibits and interactive activities.
- Try Time Out Market Osaka: Visit the popular food hall with 17 restaurants and 2 bars run by top Osaka chefs. It’s the first in Asia.
- Unwind at UMEKITA ONSEN REN Wellbeing Park: Relax in this luxurious city spa offering hot springs, saunas, wellness services, and an infinity pool.
- Shop Unique Brands: Discover 55 stores, including CFCL and SUSgallery, opening their first flagship stores in the Kansai area.
Read More: 10 New Changes in Kyoto and Osaka
2. Umekita Green Place
a. What Makes It Special
- Opening Date: Umekita Green Place officially opens on March 21, 2025.
- Location: Directly connected to JR Osaka Station, easily accessible.
- Green Design: Integrates lush greenery with open terraces, gardens, and plazas to create a relaxing urban atmosphere.
- Unique Spaces: Features two main plazas – “Green Leaves Plaza” (central greenery-filled atrium) and “Green Edge Hill” (grand staircase with plants).
- Interactive Art: Includes modern, interactive art installations as part of the WARP (West Art Project) initiative.
- Exclusive Restaurants: Hosts several restaurants opening for the first time in Kansai or even Japan, such as Maruya Honten (Nagoya-style eel), Yakiniku Ushigoro (premium wagyu BBQ), Oyster & Italian Skai (oyster and Italian cuisine), and Sacre Fleur (French steak bistro).
b. Casual Dining
- LE PINEAU (1F): Popular local patisserie offering French-style cakes, seasonal pastries, and great edible souvenirs.
- YORKYS Creperie (1F): Stylish crepes filled with fresh fruit, and fluffy cream-filled donuts using premium Hokkaido cream.
- Food Court (2F): Quick and budget-friendly options including Yoshinoya (beef bowls, fried chicken), KFC, Mos Burger, Marugame Seimen (udon noodles), and Mister Donut.
- Eggs ‘n Things (2F): Relaxed Hawaiian diner famous for fluffy pancakes topped with strawberries, whipped cream, and macadamia nuts.
- VOLTA (2F): Casual Italian spot serving authentic Neapolitan pizzas and a selection of wines.
- Baker (2F): Bakery café known for freshly baked breads, sandwiches, and pastries – perfect for quick snacks or lunch.
c. Upscale Dining
- Maruya Honten (2F): Famous Nagoya-style grilled eel restaurant serving delicious hitsumabushi (grilled eel rice), first location in Kansai.
- Yakiniku Ushigoro (3F): Premium Japanese BBQ restaurant featuring top-grade A5 Wagyu beef; highly acclaimed in Tokyo, now in Osaka.
- Oyster & Italian Skai (3F): Elegant oyster bar and Italian fusion dining with panoramic park views, first-of-its-kind in Japan.
- Sacré Fleur (3F): French steak bistro from Paris offering steak cooked on a hot stone at your table, accompanied by unlimited fries.
- THE PUBLIC (3F): Trendy gastropub and sports bar serving craft beer, cocktails, upscale pub food, and live sports viewing in a stylish atmosphere.
d. Shopping and Services
- Flagship Lifestyle Store: A popular international lifestyle brand opening its first store in Western Japan (brand name not yet announced).
- Local Souvenir Shops: Purchase delicious sweets from bakeries like LE PINEAU, ideal for edible gifts.
- Convenience Stores: Expected convenience store for snacks, daily necessities, drinks, and simple meals.
- Coin Lockers: Secure lockers available on the ground floor – perfect for luggage storage while shopping or sightseeing.
e. Nearby Attractions
- Umeda Sky Building: Iconic building about a 10-minute walk away. Famous for its rooftop observatory with panoramic views. It features a special glass-walled escalator connecting the two towers, giving you great views during the ride.
- Umekita Park: Immediately adjacent; large green space with open lawns, gardens, and water features; ideal for picnics or relaxation after shopping.
- Grand Front Osaka: Connected via pedestrian walkway; extensive shopping, various dining options, cafés, and interactive technology exhibitions.
- HEP Five: Famous shopping complex featuring the bright-red Ferris wheel offering fantastic city views; surrounded by vibrant department stores and entertainment options.
Read More: Top 17 Things to Do in Osaka
3. Donkey Kong Country at Universal Studios Japan
a. What Makes It Special
- Opening Date: Donkey Kong Country opened in December 2024 at Universal Studios Japan.
- World’s First Donkey Kong Area: This is the first area ever dedicated entirely to Donkey Kong, expanding Super Nintendo World in a big way.
- Mine Cart Roller Coaster: A fun, family-friendly coaster that feels just like riding a mine cart from the game, complete with exciting jumps and barrel-launch effects.
- Jungle Environment: The area looks exactly like Donkey Kong’s jungle, featuring lush plants, ancient stone ruins, and the giant Golden Temple you’ll recognize from the games.
- Interactive Fun: Use your Power-Up Band to join in games, collect hidden letters (K-O-N-G), and try rhythm challenges around the area.
b. What Can You Do Here
- Mine-Cart Madness: Ride an exciting roller coaster that brings you right into the action of a Donkey Kong mine-cart adventure.
- Rambi’s Bongo Breakout: Play drums with friends in this fun interactive game, and help reveal Rambi the Rhino, a moving animatronic character.
- K-O-N-G Letter Hunt: Explore and use your Power-Up Band to find hidden letters around Donkey Kong Country.
- Meet Donkey Kong: Say hello and take pictures with Donkey Kong himself near his jungle treehouse at scheduled meet-and-greet times.
- Jungle Beat Shakes (Snacks): Enjoy tasty treats inspired by Donkey Kong, like hot dogs topped with avocado cheese or banana sundaes served in special barrel mugs.
- Funky’s Fly ‘n’ Buy (Shopping): Stop by Funky’s shop to buy exclusive Donkey Kong souvenirs, plush toys, clothes, themed headbands, and special Power-Up Bands.
c. How to Access Donkey Kong Country
- Timed Entry Ticket: You’ll need a timed entry ticket for Super Nintendo World to visit Donkey Kong Country.
- Easy Booking: Reserve your ticket through the Universal Studios Japan app or at kiosks inside the park.
- Express Pass Option: Want to save time? Consider getting an Express Pass that includes quick entry to Super Nintendo World.
Read More: 3 Best Ways to Get to Universal Studios Japan
4. Gravitate Osaka
a. What Makes It Special
- Opening Date: Gravitate Osaka opened on March 17, 2025, making it one of Osaka’s newest adventure spots to explore.
- Longest Suspension Bridge in Japan: You’ll cross the 420-meter-long “GODA Bridge,” the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan, overlooking Aigawa Dam’s lake.
- Great Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the dam, forests, and even Osaka’s city skyline from high above the water.
- Accessible for Everyone: The bridge is safe for visitors of all ages, including children, seniors, wheelchair users, and strollers.
- Blend of Nature and Culture: Located at Aigawa Dam, the park combines outdoor adventure with local culture, food, and relaxing nature spots.
b. Thrilling Activities You Can Try
- Bridge Walk (Scenic Walk): Enjoy an exciting walk across the suspension bridge, 50 meters above the lake, suitable for all ages. No special skills required.
- Bungee Jump (Extreme Thrill): Jump from the bridge and reach speeds up to 60 km/h during a 50-meter drop, secured by a bungee cord. You must weigh between 40 kg and 120 kg and be at least 15 years old (under 20 needs guardian consent).
- Bridge Swing: Experience a giant swing from the bridge, available solo or in pairs. Similar age and weight rules as the bungee jump apply.
- Bridge Climb (Tower Climb): Climb 420 steps to the top of the 60-meter-high tower for amazing views. You must be at least 15 years old (under 20 needs guardian consent).
Read More: 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Osaka
5. Tsutenkaku Dive & Walk
a. What Makes It Special
- Historic Landmark: Tsutenkaku Tower is a famous symbol of Osaka, first built in 1912 and rebuilt in 1956.
- Unique Adventure Experience: Dive & Walk opened in 2024 and lets you experience the historic tower in an exciting new way.
- Controlled Jump and Skywalk: It’s the only place in Japan where you can jump and walk around the outside of a historic tower.
- Billiken Statue for Luck: Inside, there’s a statue called Billiken. Visitors rub its feet for good luck.
- Combines Views with Thrills: You get amazing city views combined with heart-racing activities.
b. The “Walk” Experience
- Outdoor Skywalk: You walk along the edge of the tower, about 26 meters above the ground.
- Safety and Equipment: You’ll wear a helmet and harness attached to a safety rail, so it’s very secure.
- Duration and Views: The walk takes just a few minutes, giving you fantastic panoramic views of Osaka.
- Who Can Participate: Suitable for ages around 9–65, with height above 130 cm, weight under 120 kg, and in good health.
- Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable pants or shorts, closed-toe shoes, and use the lockers provided to store your belongings.
c. The “Dive” Experience
- Quick Controlled Jump: You step off from a platform 40 meters high for a short but thrilling free fall.
- Excitement Level: It feels like a short bungee jump without the bounce, giving a real adrenaline rush.
- Safety Measures: You’ll have safety gear and staff to securely guide your jump and landing.
- Participation Requirements: Open to visitors around ages 9–65, under 120 kg, in good health, without medical issues or pregnancy.
- Practical Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and secure shoes, follow the staff’s countdown, and keep your eyes forward rather than down.
d. Other Tsutenkaku Attractions
- Observation Decks: Multiple viewing platforms give you amazing views over Osaka, including an open-air deck called Tenbo Paradise for an extra fee.
- Tower Slider: A fun, quick slide from the 2nd floor down to the basement, suitable for families and younger visitors.
- Shopping Area: Waku Waku Land in the basement offers snacks and souvenirs unique to Tsutenkaku.
- Café de Luna Park: Located inside the tower, this café serves snacks, ice cream, and drinks with a nice city view.
- Nighttime Lighting: The tower lights up colorfully at night, displaying different colors that even forecast the weather.
6. Nakanoshima Museum of Art
a. What Makes It Special
- Unique Building: A striking black cube building designed by architect Katsuhiko Endo, known for its modern look and spacious interior.
- Urban Space Concept: The museum’s open atrium connects to surrounding streets, welcoming you from all directions. It’s easy to explore casually.
- Historical Significance: Opened in 2022 after nearly 40 years of planning, becoming a major cultural landmark in Osaka.
- World-Class Collection: Features over 6,000 modern and contemporary artworks including international artists like Modigliani, Dalí, Magritte, Basquiat, and famous Japanese artists like Yuzo Saeki.
- Unique Icon – Giant Cat Sculpture: A fun, large astronaut cat sculpture by artist YANOBE Kenji sits outside – perfect for memorable photos.
b. What to See Inside
- Permanent Collection (4F): Explore well-known modern and contemporary artworks, including:
- International Masterpieces: Features iconic Western artists such as Modigliani (including his famous nude painting), Salvador Dali, René Magritte, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Frank Stella.
- Yuzo Saeki’s Paintings: The museum houses one of Japan’s largest collections by Saeki, including his famous works The Wall and The Postman.
- Avant-garde Japanese Art: Displays abstract works by Osaka-born Gutai group leader Jiro Yoshihara and other innovative Japanese artists.
- Nihonga Gallery: Special area dedicated to traditional Japanese-style paintings, offering a deeper look at classic Japanese artistic techniques.
- Graphic Design & Posters: Extensive collection featuring vintage Japanese posters, including the renowned Suntory Poster Collection, showcasing historical and modern graphic designs.
- Special Exhibitions (5F): Currently hosting an interactive Capcom video game exhibition (through June 2025). Upcoming shows highlight significant Japanese masterpieces.
7. teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
a. What Makes It Special
- Opening Date: teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka opened on July 29, 2022.
- Nature Meets Digital Art: It’s an outdoor art experience where digital art blends seamlessly with real plants, trees, and water.
- Interactive Experience: You’re encouraged to touch and interact directly with the artworks; they change colors and sounds when you approach or touch them.
- Seasonal Changes: Artworks change depending on the season, like glowing flowers in autumn or cherry blossom-themed lights in spring.
- Outdoor Atmosphere: Unlike typical indoor museums, you walk through an outdoor garden, surrounded by trees, plants, and a lake, all illuminated at night.
- Continuous Updates: New displays appear throughout the year, giving you fresh experiences on return visits.
b. Key Attractions
i. Resonating Microcosms in the Common Camellia Garden
Resonating Microcosms in the Common Camellia Garden: Colorful, glowing egg-shaped sculptures that change color and sound when you touch them.
ii. Forest of Autonomous Resonating Life
Forest of Autonomous Resonating Life: Huge glowing balls you can touch and walk among; they change colors and play sounds in response to you.
iii. Sculptures of Dissipative Birds in the Wind
Sculptures of Dissipative Birds in the Wind: Large sculptures near the lake that visually respond to wind and birds, changing constantly and reflecting on the water.
iv. Floating Resonating Lamps on Oike Lake
Floating Resonating Lamps on Oike Lake: Colorful lanterns floating on the lake respond to your presence, creating a soothing, dreamlike atmosphere.
Seasonal Flower Exhibits: Temporary displays, like illuminated cosmos flowers or pink muhly grass, glowing brightly when you stand still nearby.
c. Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Best Visiting Times: Go on weekday evenings to avoid crowds; weekends and holidays are busy.
- Tickets: Buy your tickets online in advance to secure entry.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes and suitable clothe – use insect repellent in summer, and bring layers in colder weather.
- Weather Check: The exhibition runs in mild rain, but heavy rain could cancel it. Check weather forecasts and the official website for updates before you go.
Read More: The Perfect 3-Day Osaka Itinerary
8. KITTE Osaka
a. What Makes It Special
- Opening Date: KITTE Osaka opened on July 31, 2024.
- Great Location: Connected directly to JR Osaka Station – easy access by train.
- Historical Charm: Built on the site of Japan’s first Osaka Station and old Central Post Office, mixing modern design with historical touches.
- Japan in One Place: Offers unique products from regions all over Japan in one convenient location, especially on the 2nd floor.
- Entertainment Hub: Includes Sky Theater MBS for live performances, Japan’s first indoor horse-riding simulator, and arcade cafés.
b. Shopping Highlights
- Feel JAPAN Journey (2F): Shops from various Japanese regions – perfect for buying unique local products from across the country.
- Japanese Crafts and Fashion: High-quality “Made in Japan” items like towels from Imabari Yokkin and stylish sneakers from Nihon no Kutsu.
- Exclusive Stores: Many brands have their first or exclusive Osaka locations here, offering limited items like Hokkaido sweets and Okinawa condiments.
- Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores offer tax-free purchases for overseas visitors – bring your passport to save money.
c. Dining Guide
- Umeyoko Alley (B1): Casual, lively street-food style dining area – great for quick meals, drinks, and snacks like takoyaki and kushikatsu.
- Osaka Classics (4F): Enjoy local favorites like DIY takoyaki at Takonotetsu or the famous kushikatsu skewers at Kushikatsu Daruma.
- Regional Specialties (4F): Try dishes from other parts of Japan, such as charcoal-grilled chicken from Miyazaki or Niigata’s famous sauce katsudon.
- Kantaro Kaiten Sushi (5F): Popular conveyor-belt sushi restaurant from Hokkaido, known for serving fresh, high-quality seafood in a casual and friendly setting.
- Cafes and Quick Bites: Plenty of cafes throughout, including Starbucks (6F), and dessert spots like Milk & Parfait Yotsuba (B1), famous for Hokkaido dairy treats.
9. Daimaru Shinsaibashi (Reopened)
a. Recent Renovations
- Opening Date: Daimaru Shinsaibashi underwent a major renovation, reopening in February 2025.
- Historic Architecture: Preserved the original 1930s facade, combining old Art Deco style with modern design.
- Better Layout: Wider aisles, clearer signs in multiple languages, and easier-to-navigate floors.
b. What Makes It Special
- Historic Architecture: Original 1930s Art Deco style, beautifully preserved facade, and iconic peacock motif.
- D-WALL Display: Large LED screen along escalators showcasing art and visual effects.
- Unique Stores: Home to Osaka’s only MoMA Design Store and Pokemon Center DX with a Pokemon Cafe.
c. Shopping Highlights
- Cosmetics Floor (1F): Major international and Japanese brands like SK-II, Shiseido, Dior, with high-tech skin analysis available.
- Luxury Brands (2F – 3F): Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, with VIP rooms for private shopping.
- MoMA Design Store (8F): Unique art and design gifts, exclusive to Osaka.
- Pearl Corner (8F): Quality pearl jewelry directly sourced and offered at reasonable prices.
- Pokemon Center DX (9F): Original merchandise, exclusive to Osaka, great for souvenirs.
d. Dining Options
- Shinsaibashi Food Hall (B2): Lots of tasty options – sushi, tempura, ramen, snacks, and sweets to eat casually or take away.
- Gion Tempura (10F): Famous Kyoto restaurant serving premium, lightly fried seasonal tempura dishes.
- Akasaka Fukinuki (10F): Traditional grilled eel restaurant, serving delicious unagi rice bowls.
- Sushi Man (10F): Historic sushi restaurant offering fresh sushi, available for sit-down or private rooms.
Read More: Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street: Visitor’s Guide and Map
10. Osaka Science Museum (Reopened)
a. Recent Renovations
- Opening Date: Osaka Science Museum underwent a major renovation and reopened on August 1, 2024.
- Complete Refresh: The museum reopened after major renovations, the first big update in 35 years, with refreshed exhibits and modern spaces.
- Osaka Science History: A new exhibit on the 4th floor highlights Osaka’s long relationship with science, including recreated displays from Japan’s very first science museum (1937).
- Improved Accessibility: The museum is now fully wheelchair-friendly, with improved lighting, signage, rest areas, and a new café for your comfort.
- Digital Enhancements: You can buy tickets online easily, and exhibits now have QR codes for explanations in English, Chinese, and Korean.
b. What Makes It Special
- Interactive Exhibits: You’ll find about 200 hands-on exhibits covering everything from space and energy to robotics – ideal for families, kids, and curious adults.
- Historic Location: Located centrally on Nakanoshima island, this museum sits right above the underground National Museum of Art, creating a unique science-and-art space.
- One-of-a-Kind Planetarium: The museum has a massive planetarium dome (26.5 meters), one of the largest in the world, offering stunning star shows.
- Historical Highlights: You can see Japan’s first robot, “Gakutensoku” (originally built in 1928), and a historic Carl Zeiss planetarium projector from the 1930s.
- Accessible and Welcoming: Facilities are wheelchair-friendly, with elevators, ramps, a café, rest areas, and clear signs, making your visit comfortable and easy.
c. Exhibitions and Features
- Planetarium & Zeiss Plaza (Basement): Enjoy realistic star and planet shows under a huge dome. Shows run daily, require separate tickets, and last around 50 minutes.
- Everyone’s Science Lab (Electricity & Energy) – 1F: Discover how energy works with interactive displays like pedaling a bike to make electricity, and join experiments in the new Science Lab workshop space.
- Enjoy Science Together (Interactive Physics) – 2F: Experiment freely with fun exhibits about light, sound, and motion – great for both kids and adults.
- Exploration of Matter (Chemistry & Life Sciences) – 3F: Explore materials hands-on, watch chemical reactions, smell scents, and experience live science demonstrations at scheduled times.
- Scientific Exploration (Space & Osaka’s Science History) – 4F: See displays about planets, stars, and Osaka’s scientific past, including local Nobel Prize winners.
