Welcome to Osaka, Japan – a city that needs no introduction. Osaka is one of Japan’s most exciting, vibrant, and popular destinations. Its energy is contagious, its food is legendary, and its culture is rich. One of the largest cities in Japan, Osaka is a great home base for exploring other parts of the country. During my travels in Japan, I visited Osaka multiple times and truly enjoyed each visit. Osaka is very unique. In this Osaka travel guide, I’ll go over my favorite things to do, where to stay, how to get there and much more. Let’s dive into what makes Osaka an unmissable experience.
Find a hotel in Osaka for your visit on Trip.com!
Table of Contents
The Complete Osaka Japan Travel Guide
Why Visit Osaka?
Osaka, with its rich history and modern vibrancy, is a must-visit destination in Japan. Steeped in tradition, this city served as a pivotal merchant hub during the Edo period. Leaving behind a legacy of fascinating historical sites like Osaka Castle and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine.
But Osaka is not just a city frozen in time. It’s a dynamic metropolis that embraces the contemporary world with open arms. From the dazzling lights and bustling streets of Dotonbori to the futuristic Umeda Sky Building, Osaka seamlessly bridges the gap between old and new.
As one of Japan’s three major cities, along with Tokyo and Kyoto, it offers a unique and diverse cultural experience that’s not to be missed. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply seeking an adventure in a city that never sleeps, Osaka has something for everyone, making it a compelling destination on any Japan itinerary.
Best Things to Do in Osaka
1. Explore Dotonburi District
No trip to Osaka is complete without a visit to Dotonbori, the city’s bustling entertainment district. Stroll along the canal, soak in the dazzling neon lights, and indulge in local street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
I thought it would be overwhelming like Times Square in NYC, but it was surprisingly really enjoyable to walk around. It’s surprisingly clean for how many people there are and pretty easy to navigate. The shopping, restaurants, and bars goes on forever. You could spend hours just wandering through this part of the city.
2. Osaka Castle
Start your journey by visiting Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol of the city. Explore the museum inside to learn about the history of the castle and its significance during the samurai era. Don’t forget to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the top floor.
Admittedly, the inside of the castle was less exciting than I was expecting. The inside is more or less just a museum, not walking through historical rooms. But the view from the top is absolutely beautiful. You get a great feel for the city of Osaka from here. I highly recommend coming early because the lines for this get insane.
3. Visit miPig Cafe
Animal cafes are very popular all over Japan and my absolute favorite has to be miPig cafe. These miniature pig cafes are located in all the major cities and are an absolute must visit if you love pigs. I’ve been to cat cafes in other parts of the world but never went to a pig cafe, and it was everything I ever wanted and more. A must visit in Japan, especially in Osaka.
4. Visit the Giant Dotonburi Store
Dotonburi is a very popular store in Japan that sells just about anything you could possibly think of. The one is Osaka is so large that it has a Ferris wheel on the outside of the building. This is a great place to come get a souvenir that is uniquely Japanese. It’s also fun just to explore the different things that Japan sells, even if you aren’t planning on buying anything.
Admittely, I didn’t do much in Osaka other than listed above and eating out. The highlights of Osaka to me are just seeing the vibrant colors of Dotonburi and the excitement of such a thriving, active city.
Where to Stay in Osaka
Osaka is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant street food, nightlife, and modern attractions. Whether you want to be in the center of the action or in a quieter area, here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in:
- Namba – This area is at the heart of Osaka’s entertainment district, famous for shopping, street food, and nightlife. A perfect spot for those who want to be in the thick of things.
- Recommended Hotels:
- Swissôtel Nankai Osaka – A luxury hotel located directly above Namba Station, offering elegant rooms with sweeping city views.
- The Lively Osaka – A chic, modern hotel with a trendy atmosphere, perfect for travelers who enjoy stylish spaces and a lively neighborhood.
- Umeda (Kita) – The Umeda area is Osaka’s business and shopping hub, with access to upscale malls, restaurants, and the Osaka Station City complex. Ideal for those looking for convenience and sophistication.
- Recommended Hotels:
- InterContinental Osaka – A top-tier luxury hotel offering contemporary design, spacious rooms, and excellent dining, located near Osaka Station.
- Hotel Granvia Osaka – A well-appointed, mid-range hotel directly connected to Osaka Station, perfect for easy transport and shopping access.
- Shinsaibashi – Known for its fashionable shopping streets, Shinsaibashi is a vibrant area with a mix of designer boutiques, department stores, and excellent dining options.
- Recommended Hotels:
- St. Regis Osaka – An opulent hotel with a prime location, known for its luxurious rooms and personalized butler service.
- Holiday Inn & Suites Shin-Osaka – A stylish, mid-grade option that blends modern comfort with convenience, offering larger rooms perfect for longer stays.
Hotel Highlight: The Lively Osaka
During my time in Japan, I stayed at The Lively Osaka on two separate occasions, and each stay was absolutely wonderful.
The hotel offers the perfect blend of value for price, stylish design, and top-notch amenities, making it one of my favorite spots in the city. Its location in the heart of Namba means you’re right in the middle of the action, with easy access to Osaka’s nightlife and shopping.
Book your stay at The Lively Osaka here!
One of the standout features is the rooftop bar, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city. For something extra special, you can even book rooms with their own movie theater setup, complete with a projection screen. I highly, highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Osaka—it’s truly a fantastic place to stay!
How to Get There and Around
Getting to and around Osaka couldn’t be more convenient. If you’re arriving from abroad, Kansai International Airport welcomes travelers from around the world, making Osaka easily accessible.
Additionally, Osaka is just a stone’s throw away from other iconic Japanese cities – a quick shinkansen (bullet train) ride from Kyoto or Tokyo will have you in Osaka in no time.
Once you’ve arrived, navigating the city is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transport system, including subways and buses. The Osaka Metro is particularly user-friendly, ensuring you can effortlessly hop from one exciting neighborhood to another, exploring the city’s vibrant tapestry of culture, cuisine, and attractions.
Osaka’s accessibility both from afar and within the city itself makes it a top-notch destination for both seasoned globetrotters and first-time visitors alike.
Tips for Visiting Osaka
- Get an IC Card: Purchase an IC card like Suica or ICOCA for convenient and cost-effective access to public transportation throughout Japan.
- Get Connected with Airalo e-SIMS– Use Airalo e-SIMS for reliable and affordable cell phone data with an easy to use interface while in Japan.
- Try Street Food: Don’t miss out on Osaka’s iconic street food like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at local stalls and street vendors.
- Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: While many people speak English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience and make interactions smoother.
- Cash is King: While credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, as smaller shops and traditional eateries may not accept cards.
- Explore the Neighborhoods: Each neighborhood offers its own unique charm. Explore places like Dotonbori for nightlife, Shinsaibashi for shopping, and Kuromon Ichiba Market for local flavors.
- Use Public Transportation: Osaka’s subway system is efficient and well-connected. Purchase a day pass if you plan to use it extensively.
- Plan Day Trips: Consider taking day trips to nearby cities like Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, as Osaka’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Kansai region.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of Japanese customs, such as bowing, removing your shoes indoors, and adhering to etiquette when visiting temples and shrines.
- Safety First: Japan is generally a safe country, but it’s always wise to exercise caution and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, history, and cuisine of this captivating city.
Best Daytrips from Osaka
Osaka is a fantastic home base for exploring other parts of Japan. All of these places can be easily accessed for either a day trip or a long weekend.
- Kyoto: Just a short train ride away, Kyoto beckons with its timeless temples, lush gardens, and traditional tea houses. Don’t miss the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
- Koyasan: Nestled amidst ancient cedar forests, this mountaintop Buddhist retreat offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional temple lodgings, serene meditation sessions, and a profound connection to Japan’s spiritual heritage.
- Nara: Visit Nara for an encounter with friendly deer roaming freely in Nara Park and explore ancient temples, including Todai-ji, home to the colossal Great Buddha.
- Kobe: Savor the cosmopolitan charm of Kobe, known for its delectable beef, scenic harbor, and the mesmerizing Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens.
- Wakayama: Escape to Wakayama and immerse yourself in the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, with highlights like the stunning Nachi Falls and Mount Koya’s serene temple complexes.
These captivating day trips offer a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the Kansai region during your visit.
Book a rental car from Osaka below to enjoy these day trips by car!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Osaka is undeniably a fantastic city that leaves a mark on every traveler’s heart. Its blend of history, modernity, and vibrant culture creates an irresistible allure. From savoring mouthwatering street food to exploring historical landmarks, Osaka offers a taste of Japan that’s uniquely captivating. So, if you’re considering your next travel adventure, rest assured that Osaka is well worth the journey.
Pin this Post for Later!
