If you’re visiting Japan, Osaka is a city that deserves a spot on your itinerary. Known as the “Kitchen of Japan”, this vibrant metropolis is a paradise for food lovers, history buffs, and urban explorers alike. With its dazzling neon lights, mouthwatering street food, historic landmarks, and warm, lively atmosphere, Osaka offers a unique contrast to Kyoto’s refined elegance and Tokyo’s intensity. Here’s our lowdown on the best things to do in Osaka.
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Things to do in Osaka
Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, is a place where old meets new, where historic castles sit amidst towering skyscrapers, and where the people are famously friendly. Osaka beats to its own rhythm, a city where the experience outweighs the attractions.
While it has its share of landmarks, Osaka’s true charm lies in its energy—its people, its food, and its unfiltered personality. This is a place that rewards spontaneity, where a wrong turn might lead to an unforgettable meal, and a casual chat with a stranger could turn into an evening adventure. You don’t just visit Osaka—you dive headfirst into its vibrant chaos.
Historically, Osaka carved its own path, flourishing as Japan’s trading hub while being largely excluded from the aristocratic culture of Edo (Tokyo). This independence led to the birth of uniquely Osakan art forms like Bunraku puppet theater and Rakugo storytelling.
The city became the heart of Japan’s famed Floating World, where merchants and laborers alike indulged in fine dining and entertainment, cementing Osaka’s reputation as “Japan’s Kitchen.”
Even economic setbacks, like the Meiji-era debt cancellations that crippled many merchants, couldn’t hold Osaka down. By the early 20th century, it had rebounded as Japan’s commercial and industrial powerhouse.
That same rebellious spirit thrives today. Unlike Tokyo’s polished restraint, Osaka embraces a brash, no-nonsense warmth. Here, people don’t just give you directions—they stop to chat.
The neon-lit streets hum with life, and the city refuses to conform to anyone’s expectations but its own. Osaka isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience waiting to happen.
Here’s our opinionated list of the best things to do in Osaka (in no particular order):
1. Explore Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s resilience and transformation. Originally constructed in the 1580s by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it was once the largest and most formidable castle in Japan, serving as his military stronghold in his campaign to unify the country.
By the time of his death in 1598, Hideyoshi had achieved what no warlord before him had—he had crushed his enemies and consolidated power over all of Japan.
However, his legacy was short-lived. After Hideyoshi’s death, Tokugawa Ieyasu seized control and established his shogunate in Edo. Hideyoshi’s heirs, believing Osaka Castle to be impregnable, plotted to overthrow the Tokugawa regime.
In 1615, Tokugawa forces marched on Osaka, obliterating the Toyotomi resistance and reducing the castle to ruins. Though the Tokugawa shogunate rebuilt it in 1629, the main tower was struck by lightning and destroyed in 1665. Later, in 1868, the castle was again engulfed in flames as the Tokugawa made their last stand against imperial forces during the Meiji Restoration.
The Osaka Castle that stands today was reconstructed in 1931 and underwent extensive renovations in 1997. While built from ferroconcrete rather than traditional materials, it remains an impressive sight with its towering stone walls, elegant black-and-gold leaf details, and distinctive copper roof.
The eight-story main keep, rising 39 meters (130 feet), offers panoramic views of the city from its top-floor observatory.
Unlike its original incarnation as a military fortress, modern Osaka Castle is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Inside, interactive exhibits—including holograms, videos, and models—tell the castle’s dramatic history.
Visitors can admire meticulously painted folding screens depicting battles between the Toyotomi and Tokugawa forces, view authentic samurai armor and weaponry, and explore a full-scale reproduction of Hideyoshi’s opulent Gold Tea Room.
The park surrounding Osaka Castle is a vast and scenic urban retreat spanning approximately 105 hectares. It is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms, drawing crowds each spring as the trees burst into pink and white blooms. The park also features serene walking paths, lush greenery, and historic stone walls, offering a peaceful contrast to the city’s energy.
Despite Osaka’s wealth of attractions, the castle remains its most recognizable landmark and a must-visit destination. Some cynics claim that its popularity stems from a lack of other major sites in the city, but in reality, Osaka has much to offer.
Still, Osaka Castle rightfully remains the city’s focal point, embodying both its rich past and its ability to evolve with the times.
Osaka Castle is open daily from 09:00–18:00, with the last admission at 17:30. The entrance fee for adults is 1,200 JPY. The surrounding Osaka Castle Park is open 24 hours a day and is free to enter.
2. Visit Shitenno-ji
Shitenno-ji, the spiritual heart of Osaka, is Japan’s oldest officially established temple, founded in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, the revered figure credited with introducing Buddhism to Japan. As one of the country’s most historically significant landmarks, the temple has endured centuries of destruction due to fires, wars, and raids, including the Tokugawa attack of 1615 and World War II bombings.
Yet, each time, Shitenno-ji has been meticulously rebuilt in its original 6th-century style, preserving its ancient architectural harmony.
At the heart of the temple complex lies the Central Precinct (Garan), a symmetrical masterpiece aligned along a north-south axis. It features the Inner Gate, a striking five-story pagoda, the Main Hall housing a statue of Prince Shotoku as the Buddha of Infinite Mercy, and the Lecture Hall, all reflecting the temple’s traditional Buddhist design.
A must-visit is the Gokuraku-Jodo Teien, a restored Japanese landscape garden inspired by the Buddhist concept of Paradise. Winding pathways lead visitors between two streams, symbolizing greed and anger, and offering a journey toward spiritual peace and enlightenment.
Adding to its charm, Shitenno-ji hosts a lively flea market on the 21st of every month, where you can browse antiques, trinkets, and nostalgic treasures. Whether for history, spirituality, or simply to soak in Osaka’s rich past, a visit to Shitenno-ji is a journey through time and tradition.
Shitenno-ji Temple is open daily from 08:30–16:30 (April–September) and 08:30–16:00 (October–March). The entrance fee for the Central Precinct and the Gokuraku-Jodo Teien is 300 JPY each.
3. Eat your way through Osaka
There’s a saying in Japan that whereas a Kyotoite will spend their last yen on a fine kimono, an Osakan will spend it on food. And honestly, who can blame them? Given Osaka’s historic role as a distribution center for rice and produce—earning it the nickname “the nation’s kitchen”—it’s no surprise that this city takes its food very, very seriously.
Fun Fact
Osaka is famous for the term “Kuidaore” which means “to eat oneself into ruin”—a testament to the city’s love for food.
Osaka proves that food isn’t just nourishment—it’s an art, a passion, and possibly a competitive sport. This city will have your taste buds doing victory laps.
From sizzling street snacks to indulgent, high-quality beef, Osaka’s culinary scene is the stuff of legend. The following are some Osaka food highlights –
Takoyaki
Imagine a crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside ball of pure joy, stuffed with tender chunks of octopus and drenched in sweet-savory takoyaki sauce, creamy Japanese mayo, a sprinkle of aonori (seaweed flakes), and a flurry of dancing bonito flakes. That’s takoyaki, and in Osaka, it’s a way of life.
These little golden spheres are cooked on special griddles with half-spherical molds, flipped at lightning speed with chopsticks by skilled vendors who make it look absurdly easy.
The first bite is a dangerous game—it’s molten lava inside—but once you survive the initial heat wave, you’re rewarded with an umami explosion of slightly chewy octopus, rich batter, and tangy toppings.
Takoyaki is crunchy, creamy, and packed with seafood essence. Be warned: once you pop, you really can’t stop.
Okonomiyaki
There are two main styles of okonomiyaki, Japan’s beloved savory pancake: Osaka-style and Hiroshima-style.
Osaka-style okonomiyaki is the more common version, where all the ingredients—batter, shredded cabbage, eggs, and various fillings like pork, seafood, or cheese—are mixed before being grilled into a thick, fluffy pancake. The name literally means “grilled as you like it,” and in true Osaka style, the possibilities are endless: pork belly, shrimp, squid, cheese, or even mochi.
Once cooked to crispy perfection, it’s generously slathered with a dark okonomiyaki sauce (a sweet-savory Worcestershire-like glaze), drizzled with mayo, dusted with seaweed flakes, and topped with bonito flakes that wriggle like they have a life of their own.
The texture is pure comfort—crispy on the edges, fluffy in the middle, and bursting with smoky, umami-packed flavors. It’s messy, indulgent, and absolutely glorious.
Even though I’m partial to the Hiroshima-style, I can’t deny that Osaka-style okonomiyaki, with its crispy, golden edges and rich toppings, is also a must-try.
Fun Fact
The world’s first instant ramen was invented in Osaka in 1958 by Momofuku Ando, founder of Nissin Foods. You can visit the Cup Noodles Museum in Ikeda to make your own!
Kushikatsu
If Osaka had a golden rule of eating, it would be: Thou shalt not double-dip thy kushikatsu. This is serious business.
Kushikatsu is deep-fried, skewered perfection—crispy, golden breaded bites of meat, seafood, or vegetables dunked in a communal pot of Worcestershire-based dipping sauce. You get one dip, and one dip only, so make it count!
The crunch is immensely satisfying, and the inside remains juicy and flavorful. Classic picks include tender pork, shrimp, lotus root, cheese, and even quail eggs—each skewer delivering a contrast of textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more.
Grab a cold beer, sit back, and enjoy the simple joy of deep-fried happiness on a stick.
Wagyu:
Now let’s talk about Wagyu because no culinary adventure in Osaka is complete without indulging in this velvety, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.
Wagyu, meaning “Japanese beef,” is famous for its insane level of marbling—tiny, buttery fat veins weaving through the meat like an edible work of art. The result? Beef so tender, you barely need to chew.
Jacky and I had built up ridiculous levels of hype about eating wagyu in Japan. Months before our trip, we were already daydreaming about that first buttery bite, watching food videos, reading reviews, and setting our expectations sky-high. Could it really be as mind-blowingly good as everyone claimed? Would it truly melt in our mouths like steak-flavored butter?
From the moment the sizzling, perfectly marbled slices hit the grill, we knew we were in for something next level. The rich aroma alone was enough to make us weak in the knees.
The first bite—pure, velvety, umami-packed bliss, feels almost illegal. The beef was so tender, it practically dissolved on our tongues, coating every taste bud in a wave of buttery, meaty perfection. It was unlike any steak we had ever had—creating an experience that’s closer to eating a creamy, beef-flavored cloud than chewing a steak.
Grilled lightly over a flame, seasoned with just a sprinkle of sea salt, wagyu doesn’t need any frills—it’s pure decadence, and we were absolutely, positively obsessed.
4. Soak in the atmosphere of Dotonbori
Dotonbori is the beating heart of Osaka—an electrifying district that perfectly captures the city’s bold personality, humor, and love for extravagance. Running parallel to the Dotonbori Canal, this neon-lit wonderland has been Osaka’s entertainment hub for centuries.
Originally developed in the early 1600s as a theater district, Dotonbori was once home to kabuki and bunraku puppet theaters that attracted crowds from across Japan. While most of these theaters have disappeared, the area reinvented itself as a vibrant nightlife district, now famous for its dazzling lights, iconic billboards, and lively atmosphere.
Fun Fact
Osaka is the birthplace of Bunraku, Japan’s traditional puppet theater, which dates back to the early 17th century.
The streets are a visual spectacle, with towering buildings covered in oversized neon signs, flashing lights, and animated 3D billboards that create a surreal urban landscape.
One of the most Instagrammable spots in Osaka is undoubtedly the Glico Running Man in Dotonbori—a brightly lit billboard featuring a victorious athlete sprinting on a blue track with his arms raised in triumph.
Never heard of Glico? They’re the company behind Pocky, those delicious Japanese biscuit sticks!
The Glico Running Man billboard, originally installed in 1935, has undergone multiple upgrades over the decades, evolving from a simple neon display to an energy-efficient LED version.
It remains one of Osaka’s most famous landmarks, drawing tourists eager to snap a photo with the victorious athlete sprinting against a bright blue track. For the best view, head to Ebisubashi Bridge, where the glowing lights reflect beautifully off the canal’s waters.
Ever wonder why Glico’s mascot is a running man? It all started with Glico’s first product, a caramel candy. Founder Riichi Ezaki promoted it as an energy booster, claiming one piece fueled a 300-meter run—hence, the Running Man logo, which remains the brand’s symbol today.
Dotonbori’s mechanized food store signs are another unmissable spectacle, adding to the district’s lively, almost theatrical atmosphere. Unlike the static neon billboards found in other Japanese cities, many of Dotonbori’s signs move, flash, and animate, making the streets feel like a dynamic stage set.
One of the most famous is the Kani Doraku Crab, a giant red mechanical crab with moving legs and twitching claws, perched above a seafood restaurant. Installed in 1960, this eye-catching mascot pioneered Dotonbori’s trend of interactive signage.
Don’t miss the Kinryu Ramen sign, which features a majestic dragon slithering through vibrant red walls, clutching a gleaming gold and red jewel in its claws.
Another standout is the furious billboard at Kushikatsu Daruma, modeled after the restaurant’s president, warning against the ultimate Osaka dining sin—double-dipping your kushiage in the shared sauce!
I absolutely loved Dotonbori for its sheer vibrancy. The energy here is infectious, and the neon-lit canal at night is a sight unlike any other in Japan.
It’s a place that feels alive—buzzing with excitement, completely unapologetic in its over-the-top aesthetic. Dotonbori is Osaka at its most iconic—a district that, once experienced, stays with you forever.
5. Ride to the top of the Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building looks like something straight out of a futuristic sci-fi movie—a gravity-defying spectacle of modern architecture that dominates Osaka’s skyline. Designed by renowned architect Hiroshi Hara (also the mastermind behind the über-cool Kyoto Station), this 173-meter (568-foot) twin-tower skyscraper is one of Japan’s most daring architectural statements.
It’s no secret that I love architecture and the Umeda Sky Building is one of the coolest edifices I’ve seen. Completed in 1993, it fuses modern engineering with conceptual futurism, resembling a space-age gateway or a high-tech portal to the sky.
The building consists of two sleek, 40-story glass-and-steel towers, seamlessly connected at the top by the Kuchu Teien Observatory—better known as the Floating Garden Observatory.
The most eye-catching feature? A giant, doughnut-shaped cutout in the roof, giving the entire structure a surreal, otherworldly appearance. Framed by exposed structural beams, this bold design element enhances its industrial-chic aesthetic while creating a striking void in the skyline.
One of the coolest parts of visiting? Getting there. A glass-encased escalator dramatically whisks you through the final five floors, suspended between the towers at dizzying heights—definitely not for the faint of heart (or those with vertigo).
The payoff is an open-air, 360-degree rooftop observatory offering breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka, stretching as far as Kobe and Awaji Island on clear days. At night, the city sprawls out beneath you like a glittering circuit board, making it one of the best spots in town for sunset and night views.
At ground level, the building’s reflective glass façade mirrors Osaka’s ever-changing skyline, reinforcing its futuristic appeal. But hidden below is a surprise: Takimi Koji, a retro food alley recreating the nostalgic charm of early 20th-century Osaka.
This mix of cutting-edge design and old-world ambiance makes the Umeda Sky Building a must-visit for architecture lovers, cityscape enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates skyscrapers with a little extra personality.
The Umeda Sky Building is open daily from 09:30–22:30, with the last admission at 22:00. The entrance fee is 2,000 JPY.
6. Discover the retro charm of Shinsekai
Shinsekai, meaning “New World,” is a district frozen in time, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Osaka’s Showa-era past. Originally developed in 1912 with grand ambitions of becoming a futuristic entertainment hub, Shinsekai was modeled after both New York and Paris—but over the decades, it has taken on a charm entirely its own.
Though once considered a bit rough around the edges, today it’s a beloved cultural landmark brimming with character, neon lights, and retro appeal.
At the heart of Shinsekai stands Tsutenkaku Tower, Osaka’s answer to the Eiffel Tower, first constructed in 1912 and later rebuilt in 1956. The 103-meter-tall tower, glowing with ever-changing LED messages, is an iconic symbol of the area and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Shinsekai is also packed with quirky attractions, from vintage game arcades filled with retro pinball and pachinko machines to traditional izakayas and theaters that transport you back to another era.
For the best experience, visit at night when the neon lights flicker to life, casting an electric glow over the streets. Whether you’re here for the food, the nostalgia, or just the sheer eccentricity, Shinsekai offers a side of Osaka that’s as unforgettable as it is delightfully unconventional.
7. Check out the teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
If you’re looking for one of the most magical and immersive experiences in Osaka, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is an absolute must-visit. Located within Nagai Park, this mesmerizing outdoor digital art installation transforms the natural landscape into a kaleidoscope of light, color, and sound after sunset.
Created by teamLab, the renowned art collective famous for its boundary-pushing digital installations, this interactive nighttime wonderland seamlessly blends technology, nature, and creativity into an unforgettable experience.
Unlike a traditional art exhibit, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is alive—lights pulse in response to movement, trees glow as you walk by, and reflections shimmer across the water like something out of a dream.
The entire garden feels like stepping into a futuristic fantasy world, where illuminated orbs shift in color, towering trees breathe with radiant hues, and winding pathways lead to hidden pockets of light that react to your presence.
The best part? No two visits are the same. The garden changes with the seasons, the weather, and even the number of visitors walking through it.
Whether you’re a fan of digital art, nature, or just looking for a jaw-dropping, Instagram-worthy experience, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is an absolute showstopper.
The teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka offers a unique nighttime experience, with operating hours that vary seasonally. Typically, the garden opens between 18:00 and 19:30, closing at 21:30, with the last admission at 20:30. You can check opening hours here. Tickets are priced at 1,800 JPY.
8. Have fun at Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a must-visit if you’re a theme park fan. This was the first Universal park outside the U.S. and is one of Japan’s top attractions.
This Hollywood-inspired theme park features thrilling rides, live entertainment, and immersive experiences inspired by blockbuster films. Brace yourself for heart-pounding adventures like Jaws, Jurassic Park, and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man 3D.
Thrill-seekers can ride the Hollywood Dream coaster, while families can enjoy Universal Wonderland with Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and Elmo. Many attractions are in Japanese, so familiarity with the movies helps.
USJ is immensely popular—arrive early, avoid weekends, and plan for a full day to make the most of your visit. You can check more information about opening times, prices, and tickets here.
9. Go on a day trip
Osaka is an excellent base for exploring nearby cultural and scenic destinations in the Kansai region. Some of the most popular day trips from Osaka are –
a. Nara: Just under an hour away, Nara is home to Japan’s largest bronze Buddha at Todai-ji Temple and the famous Nara Park, where friendly (and slightly mischievous) deer bow for treats. This former capital is packed with stunning temples, historic streets, and a tranquil atmosphere that feels like a step back in time.
b. Hiroshima & Miyajima: A moving and unforgettable day trip, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer a powerful reflection on history, while nearby Miyajima Island stuns visitors with its iconic floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. The island’s deer, scenic hiking trails, and incredible views make it a serene escape from the city.
c. Ine & Amanohashidate: Often called the “Venice of Japan,” Ine is a picturesque fishing village where charming boat houses (funaya) sit directly over the water. Nearby Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s “Three Scenic Views,” offers a breathtaking sandbar that looks like a bridge to the heavens when viewed from above.
d. Himeji: A must-visit for history lovers, Himeji Castle is Japan’s most beautifully preserved feudal fortress, known as the “White Heron Castle” for its elegant, wing-like design. The castle’s vast grounds, impressive architecture, and stunning seasonal scenery make it one of Japan’s most breathtaking sights.
How to get to Osaka
Getting to Osaka is easy, thanks to its excellent transport links by train, plane, and bus.
a. By Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Osaka is via the Shinkansen, especially if you have a JR Pass. The JR Pass is a must if you plan to explore multiple regions in Japan—you can easily travel between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
The JR Pass covers the Hikari, Sakura, and Kodama trains on the Shinkansen network. The Nozomi and Mizuho trains, the fastest Shinkansen, are not included in the JR Pass.
The JR Pass offers unlimited rides on eligible trains for 7, 14, or 21 days, providing unmatched convenience. Buy your JR Pass now through Klook or GetYourGuide!
- From Tokyo: The Tokaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo to Shin-Osaka Station in about 2 hours 30 minutes via Nozomi (not covered by the JR Pass) or 2 hours 50 minutes via Hikari (covered by the JR Pass).
- From Kyoto: A quick 15-minute ride on the Shinkansen or 30 minutes by local JR trains or private railways (Hankyu/Keihan Lines).
- From Hiroshima: The Sanyo Shinkansen gets you to Osaka in about 1.5 hours via Nozomi or 2 hours via Sakura (covered by JR Pass).
b. By Plane
Two airports serve Osaka:
Kansai International Airport (KIX) – The main hub for international flights. The Haruka Express connects KIX to Osaka in 50 minutes, while airport buses take about 1 hour.
Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) – Handles domestic flights. It’s about 30 minutes from central Osaka by monorail and train or 40 minutes by bus.
c. By Bus
Highway buses offer an affordable alternative for long-distance travel. From Tokyo, overnight buses take about 8–9 hours and arrive at Osaka Station or Namba OCAT.
No matter how you travel, Osaka is well-connected and easy to reach!
How to get around Osaka
Osaka’s transportation network is fast, efficient, and easy to navigate, making it a breeze to explore the city. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get around:
1. By Subway
Osaka’s subway system is the best way to get around, with nine lines connecting major districts and attractions. The Midosuji Line (red) is the most useful, linking Shin-Osaka, Umeda, Namba, and Tennoji. Other key lines include the Chuo Line (green) for Osaka Castle and the Tanimachi Line (purple) for Shitenno-ji Temple.
2. By Train (JR & Private Railways)
Trains are ideal for longer distances and day trips.
The JR Osaka Loop Line circles the city and stops at key stations like Osaka Station, Tennoji, and Universal Studios Japan.
The Hankyu and Hanshin Lines connect Umeda to Kobe and Kyoto.
The Nankai Line links Namba to Kansai International Airport and Wakayama.
3. By Bus
While Osaka’s subway is more convenient, city buses can be useful for reaching areas not served by trains, like Osaka Castle Park.
4. By Bicycle
Osaka is flat, compact, and bike-friendly, making cycling a fun way to explore! Umeda, Namba, and Tennoji have plenty of bike rental shops. The city also has bike-sharing services like HUBchari for short-term use.
5. By Taxi
Taxis are expensive but convenient for short distances or late-night travel when trains stop running.
How many days should you spend in Osaka?
The ideal amount of time in Osaka depends on your travel style, but 2 to 4 days is generally enough to experience the city’s highlights. Two days will cover the must-sees, including Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan.
Three days allows for a deeper dive into the city’s neighborhoods, while four or more days lets you explore at a relaxed pace, enjoy the city’s incredible food scene, and take day trips to places like Nara, Hiroshima, or Himeji.
When is the best time to visit Osaka
The best time to visit Osaka is during spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) when the weather is mild, and the city comes alive with cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn foliage.
Where to stay in Osaka
Osaka offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or a unique cultural experience, the city provides a variety of choices.
Hostel: HOSTEL CHILLAX, a cozy, budget-friendly accommodation offering a relaxed atmosphere, modern amenities, and a convenient location for exploring the city
Budget: remm Shin-Osaka, a sleek and modern budget-friendly hotel conveniently located within Shin-Osaka Station (all Shinkansen bullet trains arrive/depart here), offering comfortable rooms and excellent amenities for travelers exploring Osaka and beyond
Mid-range: Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka, a stylish hotel combining British-inspired decor with modern comforts, conveniently located near Namba Station and Osaka’s vibrant Dotonbori entertainment district
Luxury: Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel, a luxurious high-rise hotel offering stunning panoramic views, world-class amenities, and direct access to Tennoji Station for convenient city exploration
Final thoughts on Osaka
While I personally enjoyed Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima more, Osaka has a charm all its own—bold, fun-loving, and unapologetically energetic. The city thrives on its vibrant street food scene, buzzing nightlife, and friendly, down-to-earth locals, making it a fantastic place to experience a different side of Japan.
Though it may not have Tokyo’s eclectic appeal, Kyoto’s timeless elegance, or Hiroshima’s deep historical significance, Osaka’s lively atmosphere and food-obsessed culture make it a destination worth visiting. I loved exploring its neon-lit streets, trying its famous local dishes, and soaking in its playful, easygoing vibe.
Would I rush back? Probably not before revisiting my other favorites, but I’d return in a heartbeat for more takoyaki, kushikatsu, and the electric energy of Dotonbori. Osaka does its own thing—and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Do you agree with our list? What are some of the best things to do in Osaka? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Mihir, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. My journey across the world is fueled by curiosity and a hunger for unique experiences. As a travel writer, photographer, and adventurer, I’ve explored more than 35 countries, aiming to provide readers with a distinctive glimpse of our diverse world. Join me as I blend captivating storytelling with stunning visuals, guiding you through hidden gems and cultural treasures. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, craft beer, classic movies, history, and Australian Rules Football (Go Dons!).
