Osaka is located in the Kansai region in western Japan. This region is home to some of the oldest temples in Japan. It’s an incredible place to visit and there is so much to see and do.
Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city, with a population of almost 2.7 million people. It is a city full of culture and history. There’s a reason why Osaka is Japan’s second largest city destination for tourists.
So, if you’re looking for an action-packed vacation, look no further than Osaka.
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Is Osaka a good place to visit?
Of course!
There are so many amazing places to see in Osaka. It is a city that never sleeps – there’s always something happening, whether it’s a night out on the town, visiting one of the city’s many museums, or simply taking in the incredible view from one of Osaka’s many observation points.
How many days in Osaka do I need?
The minimum time you would want to spend in Osaka is two days.
In two days you will get to see the more famous landmarks, but you’ll barely scratch the surface. If you are limited on time, the two day Osaka itinerary that I’ve proposed will get you to most of the major attractions.
If you’re planning on going to Universal Studios Japan, you’ll need an extra day.
If you’re lucky enough to have some extra days free in your itinerary, that’s even better!
To begin with, I’ve suggested a five days itinerary with the top tourist attraction in Osaka to help you make the most of your time in Osaka.
With this itinerary, it’s only a suggestion. Feel free to use it as a base and then swap in and out the locations which you think are most worth visiting.
This time frame doesn’t take into account all the other amazing locations nearby where you could take a day trip to.
Summary: five-day itinerary
Day 1 – Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, Kuromon Market, Hozenji Temple, Hozenji Yokocho, Dotonbori
Day 2 – Tokokuji Temple, Shitennoji temple, Isshinji Temple, Tsutenkaku Tower, Tennoji Park
Day 3 – Universal Studios Japan
Day 4 – Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, LegoLand Discovery Center, Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, Osaka Duck Tour River Cruise
Day 5 – Sumiyoshi Taisha, Spa Suminoe, Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group (tombs)
Read on to find out more details about each of these tourist attractions.
Table of Contents
- Is Osaka a good place to visit?
- How many days in Osaka do I need?
- Summary: five-day itinerary
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Travel Tips
Day 1
After arriving in Osaka, you’re probably excited to head out and explore the city. And what a city it is! Today we will have a mix of everything, from ancient buildings to new ones and all the lights in between. If it’s your first time visiting Osaka, get ready to be blown away!
Osaka Amazing Pass
If you are planning on visiting the most popular attractions in Osaka, check out the Amazing Pass Osaka. This pass will give you access to free trains and buses (excludes private networks), as well as free access to a number of tourist attractions, including many listed in this itinerary.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of the most famous castles in Japan. It is a sight to behold.
Construction of the castle by Toyotomi Hideyoshi started in 1583 and was finished in 1597. It has a troubled history, and Osaka Castle burned down several times. Once by an attacking army, once by explosives, and once by a lightning strike.
Osaka Castle, as it stands today, was restored in 1997. Although some of the walls surrounding the castle were built as far back as the 1620s.
The castle has since been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government.
The castle is located in the city center, inside Osaka Castle Park and can be easily reached by public transport. The closest train station is Osakajokoen Station on the Osaka Loop Line and Morinomiya Station on the Chuo Line.
As the castle is now a museum, you can visit the castle and learn about the rich history of Japan and the region.
You can climb to the very top of the castle, stand outside on the viewing balcony, and see the city’s sights. At the top of the building is the gift shop, although there are other ways to spend your money within the castle, such as trying on different headwear.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Osaka during cherry blossom season, Osaka Castle is one of the best places to see the cherry blossoms. The cherry trees also look amazing in Autumn when their leaves turn spectacularly orange.
Osaka Castle is one of the top places to visit in Osaka because it is an iconic and beautiful building.
Osaka Castle cost: 600Y
Osaka Castle hours: 9 am until 5 pm daily
How much time to spend at Osaka Castle: personally, I enjoy reading the details at museums, so I can spend a lot of time wandering the halls. However, both times I’ve been with my impatient family, so we haven’t spent more than an hour here. And this doesn’t include wandering through the gorgeous Osaka Castle Park.
Address: 1-1 Osaka Castle, Chuo-ku, Osaka 540-0002, Japan
Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building is a striking landmark in Osaka.
Standing at 173 meters tall, it is one of the tallest buildings in the city. The building is located in central Osaka and was completed in 1993.
The Umeda Sky Building consists of two towers connected by a skywalk escalator. The escalators are one of the cool places to visit in Osaka! Get your Insta ready for some awesome photos!
At the top of the building is the incredible Floating Garden Observatory. Although, it’s not a garden in the literal sense. The garden is meant to be the beautiful city below. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Osaka.
You can even go on a guided tour of the building. The tour gives you Umeda Sky Building access as you’ve never seen before. It takes you into the inner workings of the building. Tours are 3000Y and run between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
While this itinerary has you visiting Osaka during the day, visiting here is one of the best things to do in Osaka at night. The reason for this is because the city lights up magnificently.
The Umeda Sky Building is an iconic structure that epitomizes the skyline of Osaka.
After you’ve finished here, hop on the local train and head towards your next destination.
Umeda Sky Building price: 1500Y (adults)
Umeda Sky Building hours: 9:30 am until 10:30 pm
How much time to spend at Umeda Sky Building: If you’re going on the tour, you will probably need about 2 hours here. But you’ll only need one if you are just visiting the Floating Garden Observatory. This doesn’t include time for eating and shopping, so factor that in too!
Address: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan
Kuromon Market
Osaka has these amazing undercover shopping streets where you can buy anything you need. One of Osaka’s most popular shopping streets is ‘Kuromon Ichiba’.
Kuromon Market consists of about 150 shops over its 580m length.
Here you’ll find different fresh food shops, including puffer fish and suppon specialty stores, vegetables and fruits, and meat. You can also find pickled and dried foods, Japanese sweets, and restaurants you can eat in.
Access to Kuromon Market is easiest from Kintetsu-Nippombashi Station. It’s about a 5-minute walk from the station.
Kuromon Market price: FREE
Kuromon Market hours: various. Some stores open from 6:00 am, whole others open later. Some close early, and some stay open late.
How much time to spend at Kuromon Market: if you are just going to look, you won’t need a lot of time here, but if you are going to stop and have something to eat, you will need more time.
Address: 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan
Hozenji Temple
One of the things that’s amazing about Japan is the little temples that are tucked away in between the newer buildings. Finding a temple amongst all the hustle and bustle is quite calming.
If you find yourself walking from Kuromon Market towards Dotonbori, make sure you go via the Buddhist temple, Hozenji. The temple has been in this location since 1637. Parts of the precinct have been lost over the years through fires and wars.
Besides being a place of worship and contemplation, the temple has an amazing Buddha statue, Mizukake Fudo-san, that is covered in moss. You can sprinkle water on the statue so that Fudo-san can grant you a wish.
Hozenji Temple price: FREE
Hozenji Temple hours: 24 hours
How much time to spend at Hozenji Temple: if you are just going to look, you won’t need a lot of time here, but if you are going to worship, you will need more time.
Address: 1 Chome-2-16 Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Hozenji Yokocho
Before experiencing the bright lights of Dotonbori, take some time to wander around the gorgeous Hozenji Yokocho. It is a narrow alley that consists of a more traditional feel.
The alley features restaurants and bars and it truly comes alive in the evening. It has a cobblestone street and gorgeous lanterns which will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
If you aren’t able to experience the street in the evening, it will still be worthwhile wandering through here during daylight hours.
Hozenji Yokocho price: FREE
Hozenji Yokocho hours: 24 hours
How much time to spend at Yokocho Temple: if you are just going to look, you won’t need a lot of time here, but if you are going to eat and soak up the nightlife, you will need more time.
Address: 1 Chome Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Dotonbori
If you want to know what to do at night in Osaka, visit Dotonbori!
This would have to be one of my favourite places in Osaka. However, it is always super busy and crowded because it’s everyone’s favourite place!
Dotonbori is an amazing place where you can experience fabulous Japanese cuisine. Food is one of the things Osaka is famous for.
You’ll get great street food in Dotonbori. Osaka’s three most famous foods are takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and fugu.
Takoyaki is a savoury ball-shaped dumpling that has an octopus filling. Okonomiyaki is a savoury pancake with various delicious ingredients added in.
And of course, there’s fugu. I must admit, I didn’t try the deadly puffer fish when I was in Osaka. I wasn’t quite brave enough! Maybe next time, though.
In Dotonbori, you will be treated to the most amazing store signs. Keep an eye out for the big 3D signs that move.
The best time to visit Dotonbori is at night when the neon lights are blazing. You need to check out the Glico Running Man sign.
One of the best places to view the signs is from Ebisu Bridge. You will get a view straight down the Dotonbori River with the signs on both sides. You can also go for a boat ride down the river.
Access to Dotonbori is from Namba Station. It’s a very short walk from the station, but you’ll have lots to see on the way.
Dotonbori price: FREE
Dotonbori hours: various. Some are open all day, while others have limited opening hours, such as restaurants.
How much time to spend at Dotonbori: I could easily spend an hour wandering the streets, browsing stores and eating. You could easily spend longer if you want to go on a boat ride down the river or eat at a restaurant.
Address: 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Day 2
Day 1 of this Osaka, Japan itinerary was a mix of different sights. From castles to modern architecture to neon lights, day 1 had it all.
Today will be slightly less modern, as we take a trip to some ancient temples to experience traditional Japanese culture.
If you are catching the train today, the best place to start is by heading towards Tennoji Station. This is probably the closest station to everything we plan on seeing today.
Tokokuji Temple
This temple is a rare find due to this being a Japanese temple with Berlin Wall sections in its garden.
Tokokuji Temple is of unknown origin, but it is said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku, who also founded Shitennoji Temple.
While there isn’t a lot to see here in terms of large grounds, it is still worth dropping by and soaking up the atmosphere.
Tokokuji price: FREE
Tokokuji hours: 24 hours
How much time to spend at Tokokuji: You will not need much time here at all. Maybe 15 minutes to take a few photos.
Address: 1-31 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0063, Japan
Shitennoji Temple
Founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, Shitennoji is one of Japan’s oldest temples. It was the first temple to be built by the state and it consists of amazing grounds.
Make sure you check out the Ishi no tori gate on the way into the precinct. It is very large and impressive. It was originally made of wood, but in 1294 it was replaced with the current stone structure you see today.
There is a Central Temple precinct that holds the main hall, lecture hall and a five-story pagoda. To enter, you pass through the impressive Saijumon where you purchase your ticket to enter this section of the grounds.
There’s also a treasure hall to visit as well as the octagonal Taishiokuden. But make sure you don’t miss the turtle pond in front of the Rokujiraisando.
If you are interested in Japanese history or religious architecture, make sure you visit Shitennoji Temple. It’s well worth seeing.
Shitennoji Temple fee: 500Y for the museum, 300Y for the garden, and 300Y for the central temple.
Shitennoji Temple hours: 8:00 am until 4:30 pm Apr-Sep. 8:00 am until 4:00 Oct-Mar.
How much time to spend at Shitennoji Temple: The more things you plan to see here, the more time you will need. At least an hour should be allocated in your itinerary.
Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan
Isshinji Temple
Yes, another temple! But another amazing and unique temple.
Isshinji Temple is home to 8 bone Buddhas. What’s a bone Buddha? I’m glad you asked!
After the cremation process, you can have your ashes interred forever in a statue of a Buddha that is housed in Isshinji Temple. This tradition started with the first Buddha created in 1890. 14 Buddhas in total have been built, but 8 were destroyed in the war.
The Buddhas are built with anywhere from 120,000 to 220,000 different people’s ashes. The next bone Buddha is due for completion around 2027.
Of course, there are other amazing buildings to see within this precinct that dates back to 1185. Niomon, the entrance gate is grand, although maybe not very inviting. The main hall and Ossuary are also buildings you should check out.
Isshinji Temple fee: FREE
Isshinji Temple hours: 9:00 am until 4:00 pm
How much time to spend at Isshinji Temple: No more than one hour is required here
Address: 2 Chome-8-69 Osaka, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0062, Japan
Tsutenkaku Tower
Tsutenkaku Tower was originally built in 1912, however, it suffered irreparable damage in the war and needed to be rebuilt. Today’s Tsutenkaku Tower was opened in 1956 and stands 103m tall.
The tower has seven floors to visit. If you want to experience all that Tsutenkaku Tower has to offer, start at the bottom. And by bottom, I mean the Basement Floor. This floor is Tsutenkaku Wakuwaku Land and it is from here that you will buy your tickets to the Observation Platform.
Keep climbing each floor of the tower to experience something new. There are official shops, where you can buy your souvenirs, a museum, a garden, and a shrine.
Once you reach level 3, you can buy a ticket for the Tsutenkaku Tower Slider, and slide your way down to the Basement Floor. The slide is on the outside of the building so you can watch the city slide by.
If you have time and money (as it’s an extra cost), you may be interested in walking out to the outdoor observatory on the top of the building. For an extra 5000Y, you can walk out to a glass-bottomed viewing platform almost 95m about the ground. It’s not for the faint-hearted!
If Tsutenkaku Tower isn’t enough, you can check out the amazing shopping district, Shinsekai. Filled with food and fashion, this shopping area is a great place to spend your time.
Tsutenkaku Tower entrance fee: 900Y for the Observation Platform (general admission). 1000Y for Tower Slider (adult). 5000Y for Tenbo Paradise.
Tsutenkaku Tower hours: 8:30 am until 9:30 pm
How much time to spend at Tsutenkaku Tower: You could easily spend 1-3 hours in this precinct
Address: 1 Chome-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Tennoji Park
If you have any time (or energy) left, you may like to visit Tennoji Park. You may like to grab your lunch and eat it nestled amongst beautifully manicured gardens. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day.
Osaka Tennoji Zoo is located here in the park. As is the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts. So there is plenty to see and do here if you still have enough time left in your day.
By the end of today, you will probably be absolutely exhausted! You’ve had such a full day! You’ve walked a fair distance, but you’ve also seen some incredible sights of Japan.
Tennoji Park fee: FREE (although there are some paid attractions here)
Tennoji Park hours: 7:00 am until 10:00 pm (although times may vary depending on the attraction)
How much time to spend at Tennoji Park: 1-3 hours depending on what you plan to do here
Address: 5-55 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0063, Japan
Day 3
If you’re leaving Osaka today, I do hope that you’ve seen as much of it as you’d hoped to. The last two days have been filled with popular attractions from across the city.
If you have plenty of time in your Osaka itinerary, then hopefully today will bring you lots of adrenalin-filled joy!
Universal Studios Japan
While visiting a theme park may not be on your must-do travel bucket list, let me assure you that you will love USJ!
Universal Studios is one of the most popular theme parks in Japan, and it’s easy to see why. With its huge selection of rides, shows, and attractions, there’s something for everyone at USJ. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Minions Park, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.
In addition, there’s also the Flying Dinosaur roller coaster. There’s nothing quite like flying through the air over the heads of people within the park.
And don’t forget the Jurrasic Park ride! My daughter just went round and round on this ride while I lined up for the Flying Dinosaur ride. She had such a good time and it’s one of her fondest memories of our trip!
Be prepared for long lines though. Try and time your visit so that it falls on one of the less busy days, such as Tuesday or Wednesday. Try to avoid the weekend at all costs!
Universal Studios Japan ticket cost: 8400Y for an adult 1-day pass
Universal Studios Japan hours: Varies but usually from around 9:00 am until 8:00 pm
How much time to spend at Universal Studios Japan: The entire day!
Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
Day 4
I hope you’ve been having a great time so far on this trip! If you only need a four day Osaka itinerary, then this will be your final day. Depending on what attractions you enjoy the most, feel free to swap today’s activities for tomorrow.
Today’s activities will have us staying closer to the city, but it will be no less intense than the last three days! Put those shoes on, and let’s get going!
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Today we head into one of the main areas, the Minato Ward, to go to our first attraction of the day – the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is the largest and most popular aquarium in Japan. It is home to a variety of marine life, and it is centred on the connection to the Pacific Ocean.
One of the main attractions of the aquarium is the giant circular tank that is in the centre of the building. It is the 7th largest aquarium tank in the world! Inside you’ll find the most amazing sea life.
One of the most popular aquarium attractions is the whale shark. It seems to swim so leisurely through the water. Another attraction that I loved was the Ocean Sunfish. The way the Sunfish seemingly drifts around in its tank is fascinating to watch.
And of course, more favourite attractions are the spider crabs and jellyfish! Take your time at the aquarium, there is just so much to see here.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan fee: 2400Y for adults
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan hours: 9:30 am until 7:00 pm but check as days and times vary
How much time to spend at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: You could easily spend an hour or so here
Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Legoland Discovery Center
If you love Lego, then you have to visit the Legoland Discovery Center. It’s a great place to visit if you have kids or extra time on your hands.
There are rides you can go on, and games you can play. There’s even a Lego diorama of Osaka to see. The discovery center is such a fabulous place to visit.
The Legoland Center is located right next door to the aquarium and the next attraction, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel.
Legoland Discovery Center fee: 2800Y
Legoland Discovery Center hours: From 10:00 am until 4:00 pm
How much time to spend at Legoland Discovery Center: About an hour
Address: Next door to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan in the Tempozan Market Place
Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is a popular tourist destination in Osaka. Standing at 112 meters tall, it was once the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. It was installed in 1997. A ride on the Ferris wheel offers spectacular views of Osaka Bay.
Each cabin can hold up to 8 people, so your whole family can enjoy a leisurely ride above the city. The Ferris wheel takes approximately 15 minutes to do one rotation.
You can choose to go during the day or evening. An evening ride is a great way to see the city’s lights.
Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel fee: 800Y
Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel hours: From 10:00 am until 10:00 pm
How much time to spend at Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel: Half an hour including purchasing your tickets, waiting in line and riding the Ferris wheel
Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Osaka Duck Tour
If you have time to spare and you can get to the River Port by 4 pm, then you should try to catch the Osaka Duck Tour. The tour will take you past Osaka Castle before splashing into the O River near the Japan Mint.
If you visit Osaka during the cherry blossom season, you can get some of the best views of the cherry blossoms along the river from the boat.
Taking a cruise down the river gives you a unique experience and memory to take with you after you’ve left Osaka. It’s a good idea to book in advance as seats are limited.
Osaka Duck Tour cost: 3500Y
Osaka Duck Tour hours: Various departure times throughout the day
How much time to spend on Osaka Duck Tour: The tour takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, plus you need to arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time
Address: 1-2 Kitahamahigashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0031, Japan
Day 5
Dear traveller, are your feet ready for a massage yet? Going to a theme park can really make those legs hurt because of the standing in lines. Today we start off with something a little bit different, but is very important in Japanese culture.
Then we will see another beautiful preinct, and then onto our first UNESCO World Heritage site for this itinerary. It’s going to be another perfect day in Osaka!
Spa Suminoe
Today we are starting with a trip to a public hot spring. Spa Suminoe has a number of onsens, including ones that are outdoors. Being in the heart of the city, you wouldn’t expect to be in such a tranquil place, but this is the best way to relax and start your day off right.
For those that want an even more relaxing start to their morning, you can even get a massage here! Towel rental is also available, so you don’t need to carry around extra items.
There’s also a restaurant that offers delicious food. Take the train to Suminoekoen Station to visit Spa Suminoe.
Spa Suminoe cost: From 720Y for bathing and from 2300Y for a massage
Spa Suminoe hours: From 10:00 am until 2:00 am the next day
How much time to spend at Spa Suminoe: Depends on what treatment you are getting, but probably minumum of an hour
Address: 1 Chome-1-82 Izumi, Suminoe Ward, Osaka, 559-0023, Japan
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Now that you’re fully relaxed, let’s get going to our next attraction. This does require a little bit of backtracking on the train lines or a bus, or you could walk the 2.5km. 2.5km is getting a bit further than I’d like to walk between attractions, though.
Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine was founded in 211. That’s incredible to think this precinct has been around for almost 2000 years! It just goes to show what an incredible amazing county Japan is.
The Sorihashi Bridge is one of the most iconic sights of Osaka. The bridge was originally built around the year 1600, but has been rebuilt and restored over the years.
Another feature of this precinct is the Onda or Secret Rice Paddy. It is considered that the rice that is grown here is sacred. This rice is offered to the deities that are enshrined in Sumiyoshi Taisha.
When leaving this location to travel to the next location, make sure you go to the Sumiyoshi-Higashi Station for the Nankai-Koya Line.
Sumiyoshi Taisha fee: FREE
Sumiyoshi Taisha hours: From 6:30 am until 5:00 pm
How much time to spend at Sumiyoshi Taisha: You’re probably getting templed-out by this stage, so you probably only need an hour
Address: 2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan
Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group: Mounded Tombs of Ancient Japan
Travelling further south, the next stop is one of incredible significance to Japan and the world. The Osaka Mozu Tombs have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The tombs have been created in geometric shapes and were built between the 3rd and 6th centuries, during the Kofun period. At one point, over 100 tombs existed. However, now less than 50 remain, with 19 of these sites designated as National Historic Sites.
To be selected to have one of these tombs, you needed to be a member of the elite class. The largest tomb of all is built in a keyhole shape.
While you can view the tombs from the ground, you can also take a visit to the Sakai City Hall (you’ll need to disembark at Sakaihigashi Station). The City Hall is free to visit and it is open from 9 am until 9 pm.
At the Sakai City Hall, you can climb to the 21st floor to the observation lobby and see a great view of Nintoku Emperor’s Tomb. From here you can also see Mt. Rokko and Mt. Kongo in the distance.
It’s a 1.5 km walk to the Sakai City Museum, which is the next attraction to go to. However, you do get to walk along the edge of the largest tomb, Nintoku Emperor’s Tomb. Here you will find information on the tombs.
Seeing a UNESCO World Heritage location is the perfect way to finish off this five day itinerary for Osaka.
Sakai City Museum fee: 200Y for an adult ticket
Sakai City Museum hours: From 9:30 am until 5:15 pm
How much time to spend at Sakai City Museum: Maybe half an hour to see the sights
Address: 2 Chome-204 Mozusekiuncho, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka 590-0802, Japan
Travel Tips
So you’ve now decided that you’re going to Osaka and you may have even picked out which tourist attractions you want to visit. That’s awesome! Osaka is a wonderful city with so much to offer.
However, there are still a few things that you may want to know before hopping in the plane and arriving in Osaka.
Getting around in Osaka
The easiest way to travel around Osaka is to use the trains and the subways. What you need to be aware of is that there are multiple companies that operate the trains and subways.
This means that if you have a Japan Rail Pass, you still may need to buy tickets if you want to catch the Nakai Electric Railway or the Hanshin Electric Railway in Osaka.
That doesn’t mean the Japan Rail Pass should be discarded. If you are planning on doing day trips from Osaka, or are travelling long distances across Japan, the JR Pass is one of the most economical and fastest ways to do this.
Japan Rail Pass
The JR Pass is a cost-effective way to travel across Japan. Make sure you order yours before leaving for Japan as you are unable to buy them once you get there.
Best area to stay Osaka
I’ve always found that the best place to stay, regardless of where you are in the world, is somewhere that is close to public transport.
For this reason, I consider the Namba area the best area to stay in Osaka.
Dotonbori Hotel
Located very close to the Osaka-Namba railway, makes this hotel great for getting around Osaka.
Natural Hot Spring Midosuji Hotel
For something a little different, this hotel has a hot spring bath and sauna.
Is Osaka safe?
Absolutely, Osaka is safe for travel. Actually, all of Japan is safe for travelling in.
Solo travellers need not worry about their safety. Of course, you should always remain alert, but you do not need to be worried when you’re out and about.
Is water in Osaka safe to drink?
Yes, Osaka water is safe to drink.
But who can resist the allure of a vending machine? Drinks in Japan are generally very cheap. You’ll often find yourself wandering down a street and you come across a vending machine on a corner. You should never find yourself dehydrated with such easy access to drinks!
Why you should visit Osaka
If you’re wondering why should I visit Osaka, then let me tell you it’s because it has everything!
The city has a rich history and culture that can be explored at places like Osaka Castle and the Shitenno-ji Temple. There are also plenty of shopping and nightlife districts, like Dotonbori and Namba, where you can find everything from high-end brands to street stalls selling local specialties.
But what makes Osaka really stand out is its amazing ability to blend the centuries-old Japanese culture with the more current culture. I think Osaka is an amazing place, and I reckon you will too.
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