Top 17 Things to Do in Osaka

Welcome to Osaka! Let me share 17 wonderful places that will make your visit special.

From the fun rides at Universal Studios Japan to the peaceful gardens of Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine, there’s something here for everyone.

Osaka mixes old and new Japan in the most delightful ways.

Let me show you around my favorite spots in this friendly city! 😊

1. Universal Studios Japan

Fun-filled adventure at Universal Studios Japan

a. What Makes It Special

Universal Studios Japan ranked as the 3rd most visited theme park globally in 2023, and #1 in Asia
You’ll find Japan-exclusive attractions that blend Japanese culture with Universal’s magic
Super Nintendo World is here – the world’s first Nintendo theme park area where Mario and friends come to life
There’s something for everyone, from thrill rides to family attractions

b. Must-Try Attractions

Mario Kart: Race through the Mushroom Kingdom wearing AR goggles – it’s like being in the actual game!
Yoshi’s Adventure: A family-friendly ride offering stunning views of the Mushroom Kingdom
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: Soar through Hogwarts on your broomstick in this magical 4K experience
The Flying Dinosaur: Brave this face-down roller coaster that makes you feel like a flying dinosaur
Hollywood Dream: Choose between riding forward or backward on this music-themed coaster

c. Planning Your Visit

Book Online: Get your tickets and Express Passes ahead of time to skip the long ticket lines at the park
Come Early: Arrive an hour before opening to enjoy shorter wait times for popular rides
Download App: Use the official USJ app to check wait times and find your way around the park
Stay Nearby: Book a hotel close to USJ to make the most of your visit and save travel time

d. How to Get There

Read Here: 3 Best Ways to Get to Universal Studios Japan

2. Dotonbori

Dotonbori Street and its amazing food selection

a. What Makes It Special

You’ll be amazed by the famous neon lights and massive 3D signs that light up the night sky – it’s Osaka’s most photographed spot
This is your go-to place for Osaka’s famous “eat till you drop” food culture – the street is packed with local restaurants and food stalls
Keep an eye out for two iconic landmarks: the running Glico Man sign (perfect for photos!) and the giant moving crab above Kani Doraku restaurant

b. Food You Can’t Miss

Takoyaki (Takoyaki Wanaka): Grab these hot, crispy octopus balls – they’re the perfect walking snack
Okonomiyaki (Okonomiyaki Mizuno): Taste this savory pancake, an Osaka specialty
Kushikatsu (Kushikatsu Daruma): Try these crispy skewers – choose from meat, seafood, or veggies (just remember: no double-dipping!)
Conveyor Belt Sushi (Genrokuzushi): Have fun picking fresh sushi off the conveyor belt – it’s interactive and delicious
Taiyaki (Naruto Taiyaki Hompo): End your food journey with these cute fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste or creamy custard

c. How to Get There

Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line/ Yotsubashi Line/ Sennichimae Line to Namba Station. Exit via 15-B, then walk about 5 minutes to Dotonbori.

3. Dotonbori Glico Sign

a. What Makes It Special

The most recognizable landmark in Osaka since 1935, now in its 6th generation
Features an illuminated running man figure against a blue LED background
Represents Glico company’s commitment to health and vitality
The most photographed spot in Dotonbori area

b. Best Spots to View and Photograph the Sign

Ebisubashi Bridge gives you the perfect frontal view
The sidewalk below Ebisubashi offers less crowded photo opportunities
Tonbori River Walk provides a wider perspective with the canal
River cruises let you capture unique angles from the water

c. Things to Do Around the Glico Sign

Take your photo doing the Glico pose (arms raised in victory)
Check out the surrounding 3D billboards and neon signs

d. How to Get There

It’s just a short walk from Dotonbori Street.

4. Namba Yasaka Jinja

Cultural escapade around Namba Yasaka Jinja

a. What Makes It Special

A standout shrine with a massive 12m high, 11m wide lion-head stage
The lion is said to eat bad luck and protect you from evil spirits
Serves as the main guardian shrine for Namba district
Beautiful cherry blossoms bloom in the shrine grounds during spring

b. Exploring the Lion-Head Stage

Built in 1975, it’s an iconic symbol that stands out from typical shrine architecture
You can look inside to see the performance stage
A perfect photo spot – the giant lion makes for impressive pictures
The unique retro design makes it different from any other shrine you’ll visit

c. Participating in Shinto Rituals

Start at the chōzuya (purification fountain) to clean your hands and mouth
Make the deity aware of your visit by ringing the shrine bell
Place your offering in the donation box
Follow the prayer ritual: two bows, two claps, one final bow
Write your wishes on an ema (wooden plaque) to hang at the shrine

d. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line/ Yotsubashi Line/ Sennichimae Line to Namba Station. Use the South Exit and walk about 7 minutes to reach the shrine
Option 2: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Yotsubashi Line to Daikokucho Station. Use Exit 2 and walk about 8 minutes to reach the shrine
Option 3: Take the Nankai Line to Osaka-Namba Station. Use Exit 32 and walk about 7 minutes to reach the shrine

5. Osaka Castle

The mesmerizing beauty of the Osaka Castle

a. What Makes It Special

One of Japan’s most iconic historical landmarks, dating back to Japan’s feudal era
Features stunning golden details and tiger decorations throughout
Represents classic Japanese castle design at its finest
Offers different views each season – spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage
Gives you panoramic city views from the observation deck
Houses a collection of authentic Edo period artifacts

b. Exploring the Castle Tower

1st Floor: Start with an introduction film about the castle’s story
2nd Floor: See how the castle was built and check out gold roof ornament replicas
3rd Floor: View a replica of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s elaborate golden tea room
4th Floor: Discover samurai exhibits featuring armor, weapons, and battle strategies
5th Floor: Browse dramatic war paintings showing the Summer War of Osaka
6th Floor: Note that this floor is just a corridor and closed to visitors
7th Floor: View miniature displays showing key moments in Toyotomi’s life
8th Floor: Take in 360-degree views of modern Osaka

c. Wandering the Castle Grounds

Enter through the impressive Otemon Gate
Visit Nishinomaru Garden – especially beautiful during cherry blossom season
Explore the massive stone walls and surrounding moats
Look up to spot the golden shachihoko (mythical fish-tiger) on the roof tops

d. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the Chuo Line/ JR Osaka Loop Line/ Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line to Morinomiya Station. Exit via 3A, then walk about 18 minutes to reach the castle
Option 2: Take the Tanimachi Line or Chuo Line to Tanimachi Yonchome Station. Use Exit 9 and walk about 18 minutes to the castle
Option 3: Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Osakajo-koen Station, then walk about 18 minutes to the castle

Read More: A Complete Guide to Osaka Castle

6. Shinseikai

a. What Makes It Special

A nostalgic district from the 1900s with an authentic local vibe
Famous for affordable food, shopping and entertainment
Home to the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower
Packed with colorful neon signs and traditional lanterns
Less touristy than other Osaka areas, giving you a real local experience
Perfect for budget-friendly exploring

b. Top Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Jan Jan Yokocho: A vibrant alley full of local food spots and bars
Tsutenkaku Tower: Climb up 108 meters for incredible city views
Billiken Shrine: Touch the statue’s feet for good luck (local tradition)
Shinsekai Market: Mix of old and new shops in a recently updated area
Spa World: Massive bathhouse featuring themed pools from different countries

c. Must-try Local Food Spots

Conveyor Belt Sushi (Kura Sushi Shinsekai Tsutenkaku): Affordable conveyor belt sushi from 115 yen
Kushikatsu (Kushikatsu Daruma): Try their famous deep-fried skewers (local specialty)
Takoyaki (Shinsekai Kankan): Get fresh takoyaki (octopus balls) hot off the grill
Doteyaki (Nonkiya): Sample doteyaki, a local beef tendon stew in miso sauce

d. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Sakaisuji Line to Dobutsuen-mae Station. Use Exit 5 and walk about 5 minutes to reach Shinsekai
Option 2: Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Shin-Imamiya Station. Use the Tsutenkaku exit (East exit) and walk about 10 minutes to reach Shinsekai
Option 3: Take the Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line to Ebisucho Station. Use Exit 3 and walk about 3 minutes to get to Shinsekai

7. Tsutenkaku Tower

Breathtakingly beautiful scenery from Tsutenkaku Tower

a. What Makes It Special

An Osaka icon standing proud at 108 meters tall
Built in an eye-catching style inspired by Paris’ Eiffel Tower
Located in retro-cool Shinsekai district
Gives you sweeping city views from observation decks
Houses the lucky Billiken statue – Osaka’s happiness mascot

b. Your Observation Deck Experience

Main deck sits at 87.5 meters on the 5th floor
Enjoy 360-degree views across Osaka
Can see all the way to Osaka Bay on clear days
Extra beautiful at night when the city lights up

c. Meet Billiken – Your Lucky Charm

Find the golden statue on the 5th floor
Rub its feet for good luck (local tradition)
Perfect spot for memorable photos
Browse Billiken souvenirs at the gift shop

d. Floor-By-Floor Guide

Basement: Pick up souvenirs and grab some snacks
3rd Floor: Learn about the tower’s and Shinsekai’s history
4th Floor: Check out the “Luminous Deck” with its mirror balls and light shows
5th Floor: Main observation area and lucky Billiken statue

8. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Marine adventure at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

a. What Makes It Special

One of the world’s biggest aquariums with 30,000+ marine creatures
Features 15 unique tanks showing Pacific Rim marine life
Home to a magnificent whale shark in the central tank
Offers interactive touch pools with starfish and rays
Unique spiral design lets you view sea life from different heights

b. Must-See Exhibits On Your Visit

Pacific Ocean Tank: Watch whale sharks, manta rays and other sharks swim around the massive central tank
Japan Forest: Explore a recreation of Japanese forest waterways and their creatures
Antarctica Zone: See king and gentoo penguins up close in their chilly habitat
Aleutian Islands: Spot colorful tufted puffins in their cold-water environment
Jellyfish Exhibit: Be amazed by glowing jellyfish floating peacefully in their tanks

c. Tips For Best Experience

Start at the top floor and follow the spiral path down
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Plan about 2-3 hours for the full experience
Check feeding times here
Best photo spots are at the main Pacific Ocean Tank
Book tickets online in advance to skip the entrance queues

d. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Sakaisuji Line to Dobutsuen-mae Station. Use Exit 5 and walk about 7 minutes to reach Tsutenkaku Tower
Option 2: Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Shin-Imamiya Station. Use the Tsutenkaku exit (East exit) and walk about 10 minutes to reach Tsutenkaku Tower
Option 3: Take the Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line to Ebisucho Station. Use Exit 3 and walk about 3 minutes to get to Tsutenkaku Tower. This is the closest station

9. Harukas 300

Awe-inspiring vistas of the city from Harukas 300

a. What Makes It Special

Harukas 300 stands as Japan’s tallest skyscraper at 300 meters high
Gives you incredible 360-degree views across Osaka
Features a unique three-floor observation area
Even the restrooms have amazing views from the 59th floor

b. Best Views In The House

See all of Osaka from 300 meters up
Spot Kyoto, Kobe, and Awaji Island on clear days
60th floor has wall-to-wall windows for perfect views
Use free binoculars to find landmarks like Osaka Castle
Test your courage on glass floor sections

c. Sky Garden Experience

Step outside at the 58th floor open-air garden
Take a break on the wooden deck seating
Perfect spot for sunset photos
Grab a drink or snack at the sky-high café

d. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Tennoji Station. Use Exit 9 or 10 and follow the signs to Abeno Harukas. The entrance to the Harukas 300 observatory elevators will be on your right
Option 2: Take the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line to Osaka-Abenobashi Station. This station is directly connected to Abeno Harukas
Option 3: Take the JR Osaka Loop Line/ Hanwa Line/ Yamatoji Line to JR Tennoji Station. Use the South Exit and cross the street to Abeno Harukas

Once you arrive at Abeno Harukas:

Go to the 16th floor to purchase tickets for Harukas 300
Take the elevator to the observatory floors (58th to 60th)

10. Kuromon Ichiba Market

Local delicacies all over Kuromon Ichiba Market

a. What Makes It Special

“Osaka’s Kitchen” – a 580-meter food paradise with 170+ years of history
Features 150 shops offering fresh seafood, produce and local treats
Blends traditional market vibes with modern food spots
Perfect for “Tabe Aruki” – snacking while you explore

b. Must-Try Food Spots

Fresh Seafood: Get grilled king crab, giant scallops, oysters and uni
Sushi & Sashimi: Sample fresh tuna at counter-seat stalls
Kobe Beef: Treat yourself to premium beef skewers
Street Food Favorites
- Takoyaki (octopus balls)
- Kushikatsu (fried skewers)
- Oden (traditional hotpot)

c. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the Osaka Metro Sennichimae Line or Sakaisuji Line to Nippombashi Station. Use Exit 10 and walk about 4 minutes to reach Kuromon Ichiba Market
Option 2: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Yotsubashi Line to Namba Station. Use Exit 4 and walk about 8 minutes to reach Kuromon Ichiba Market

11. Shinsaibashi Shopping Street

Modern shopping around Shinsaibashi Shopping Street

a. What Makes It Special

Osaka’s top shopping spot mixing luxury and budget shopping
Main covered arcade Shinsaibashi-suji stretches 600 meters
Perfect blend of global brands and local boutiques
Known for beauty and cosmetics shops
Endless dining options throughout the arcade

b. Must-Visit Stores

Daimaru Shinsaibashi: Luxury department store
Uniqlo & GU: Multi-floor flagship store
Don Quijote: Discount store with everything
International Brands: H&M and ZARA
Local Fashion: WEGO, SPINNS
American Village (Nearby): Great for vintage finds

c. Beauty Shopping Highlights

Matsumoto Kiyoshi: Japanese drugstore essentials
Shiseido: Famous Japanese beauty brand
LUSH: Natural cosmetics and bath products

d. How to Get There

Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Shinsaibashi Station. Use Exit 5 or 6 and you’ll be right in the Shinsaibashi area.

12. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel

Soothing visuals envelop the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel

a. What Makes It Special

One of world’s largest Ferris wheels at 112.5 meters tall
Offers panoramic views of Osaka Bay, city skyline, and mountains
Choose regular cabins or thrilling glass-floor ones
At night, wheel lights change color to forecast next day’s weather

b. Your Ride Experience

15-17 minute complete rotation
Cabins fit up to 8 people
Wheelchair-accessible options available
Clear-day views include Mt. Ikoma, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Kansai Airport

c. Best Times To Ride

Sunset: Watch the city transform from day to night
Evening: See Osaka’s twinkling lights
Skip rainy or foggy days for best views
Check weather forecast for optimal viewing

d. Nearby Attractions And Activities

Tempozan Marketplace: Shopping and dining
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: World-class marine life
Legoland Discovery Center: Perfect for families
Naniwa Food Theme Park: Local food heaven
Harbor walk: Scenic waterfront strolls

e. How to Get There

Take the Osaka Metro Chuo Line to Osakako Station. Use Exit 1 and walk about 5 minutes to reach the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel.

13. Shitennoji Temple

a. What Makes It Special

Japan’s oldest state temple, established in 593 by Prince Shotoku
One of few temples that survived World War II
Houses significant Buddhist art and relics
Features serene inner gardens
Maintains authentic spiritual atmosphere unlike modern temples

b. Must-See Temple Attractions

Kondo (Main Hall): Home to important Buddhist statues
Five-Story Pagoda: Climb for panoramic views
Kodo (Lecture Hall): Beautiful Buddhist art and architecture
Gokuraku-jodo Garden: Peaceful paradise-themed Japanese garden
Treasure House: Collection of valuable historical artifacts

c. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station. Use Exit 4 and walk about 8 minutes to reach the temple.
Option 2: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Tanimachi Line to Tennoji Station. Use Exit 18 and walk about 12 minutes to reach the temple.
Option 3: Take the JR Line to JR Tennoji Station. Use the North Exit and walk about 12 minutes to reach the temple.

14. Umeda Sky Building

a. What Makes It Special

Unique design: Umeda Sky Building features two 40-story towers linked by “Floating Garden Observatory”
One of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks
Experience 360-degree city views
Features world’s highest escalator connecting the towers

b. Floating Garden Observatory Experience

Located on 39th-40th floors
Offers both indoor and outdoor viewing areas
Best visited at sunset for day-to-night views

c. Sky Walk Highlights

Open-air deck on the rooftop
Unobstructed views of Osaka skyline
Circular walkway with glass panels
Beautiful illumination at night
Bring a jacket – it gets windy up here
Tie up long hair if visiting outdoor deck

d. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the JR Line to Osaka Station. Use the Central North Exit and walk about 9 minutes to reach the Umeda Sky Building
Option 2: Take the Hankyu Railway to Osaka-umeda Station. Exit from the Chaya-machi Exit Ticket Gate and walk about 9 minutes to the Umeda Sky Building
Option 3: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Umeda Station. Use the North Ticket Gate and walk about 9 minutes to the Umeda Sky Building
Option 4: Take the Osaka Metro, Hankyu, or Hanshin line to Umeda Station. Use Exit 5 and walk to the Umeda Sky Building

Once you arrive at the Umeda Sky Building:

Enter the building and go to the 3rd floor to find the Kuchu Teien Observatory entrance.
Take the elevator to the 39th floor.
From there, you can access the observatory floors (39th, 40th, and rooftop).

15. Sumiyoshi Taisha

Iconic red bridge of the Sumiyoshi Taisha

a. What Makes It Special

One of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines from 200s CE
Main shrine among 2,000+ Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan
Protects seafarers and dedicated to Sumiyoshi sea deities
Features unique Sumiyoshi-zukuri architecture

b. Architectural Features

Four main halls – all national treasures
Straight, clean roof lines in Sumiyoshi-zukuri style
Features forked finials (chigi) and horizontal billets (katsuogi)
Iconic Sorihashi Bridge arches gracefully over the pond

c. What To See And Do

Cross the stunning red Sorihashi Bridge (Taiko-bashi)
Visit all four main halls – each unique in character
Admire the beautiful black pine trees throughout grounds
Popular spot for relationship blessing prayers
Most photogenic during golden sunset hours

d. How to Get There

Take the Nankai Line to Sumiyoshi Taisha Station. Use the East exit and walk about 2 minutes to reach the shrine. You’ll see the shrine’s iconic bridge and entrance.

16. Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda

Exceptional Instant Noodles Tunnel within the Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda – Photo Credit: CUPNOODLES MUSEUM

a. What Makes It Special

Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda – the birthplace of instant noodles
Located at the original Ikeda site where Momofuku Ando created Chicken Ramen in 1958
Learn about the determination behind this world-changing invention
Discover how instant noodles became a global food staple

b. Must-See Exhibits

Chicken Ramen Factory: Create ramen from scratch
My CUPNOODLES Factory: Design your own Cup Noodles
Instant Noodles Tunnel: View 800 different noodle packages
CUPNOODLES Drama Theater: Watch the history unfold
Exhibition of Instant Noodles: See their worldwide impact

c. Create Your Own Cup Noodles

Design your unique package
Pick from 4 soup flavors
Choose 4 toppings from 12 options
Watch staff seal your creation
Take home your personalized Cup Noodles
Price: Adults 1,000 yen, Elementary students 600 yen

d. How to Get There

Take the Hankyu Takarazuka Line to Ikeda Station. Use the Masumi-cho Homen Exit (East exit) and walk about 5 minutes to the museum.

17. Solaniwa Onsen

A comforting retreat to Solaniwa Onsen – Photo Credit: Solaniwa Onsen

a. What Makes It Special

Solaniwa Onsen – West Japan’s largest onsen theme park (16,500 square meters)
Recreates a 16th-century Japanese town atmosphere
Features nine different bath types, indoor and outdoor
Features a massive 3,000-square-meter Japanese rooftop garden
Separate bathing areas for men and women

b. Your Onsen Experience

Experience various baths including garden-viewing and carbonated baths
Relax in open-air baths overlooking Japanese garden
Try the “Silk Bath” with ultra-fine bubbles that feel like silk
Use dry sauna or mist sauna (women’s section only) to detoxify
Enjoy foot bath in rooftop garden while viewing seasonal flowers
Walk the path of 1,000 torii gates to Benten shrine

c. How to Get There

Option 1: Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Bentencho Station. Exit through the North Exit, then immediately take the stairs on your right. Follow the signs to Solaniwa Onsen
Option 2: Ride the Osaka Metro Chuo Line to Bentencho Station. Leave through the west ticket gate and proceed to Exit 2A. From there, follow the connecting walkway directly to Solaniwa Onsen