Top 7 Places to Visit in Osaka, Japan
The bustling city of Osaka has everything you would look for in a Japanese experience — yummy street food, well-preserved heritage sites, and kawaii spots — that travellers no doubt often include it in their Japan itinerary. But with so many Osaka attractions, where do you even begin? We’ve rounded up the top places to visit in Osaka to help you plan your trip.
1. Step back in time at Osaka Castle
Be transported back to ancient Japan as you explore Osaka Castle. This historical landmark played an important role in Japan’s unification under Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s rule in the 16th century. Go up the museum and observation deck on the eighth floor to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area. While you’re at it, why not hire a professional photographer and have your own photoshoot here?
Address: Osaka Castle, 1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan
2. Sample authentic Japanese street food in Dotonbori
What’s a trip to Osaka without tasting the popular street food in Dotonbori? As you stroll around Osaka’s famed entertainment and food district, hunt down the must-try Japanese street food like takoyaki (fried octopus balls), yakitori (grilled skewers), okonomiyaki (savoury pancake), and gyoza (pan-fried dumplings). Then, have a shot of sake (fermented rice wine) to wash it all down. Kanpai!
Address: Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan
3. Scour Kuromon Market for local delights
Level up your food trip in Osaka by going to Kuromon Market. Regarded by the locals as “Osaka’s Kitchen”, it is the place if you’re looking to have a different kind of gustatory adventure. Here, you’ll be treated to an array of sumptuous local food — from wagyu skewers to tamago (egg) tofu and toro (fatty tuna) sushi. Itadakimasu!
Address: Kuromon Market, 1 Chome-16 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan
4. Unleash the child in you at Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is the dream playground for everyone. What’s so special about this theme park is that it features Hollywood and Japanese culture you won’t find anywhere else. Cast your spell at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Scream your lungs out at Jurassic Park. Play to your heart’s content at Super Nintendo World. These are just some of the many attractions to enjoy in this massive theme park in Osaka. So, which one awakens your inner child?
Address: Universal Studios Japan, 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, Japan
5. Let’s play at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
Let loose and be a kid again at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. Hop on rides and see life-sized displays like Osaka City itself created from millions of LEGO bricks. You can also get your hands on LEGO block building, experience a 4D LEGO cinema, or go on a factory tour. You’ll surely have a whale of fun in this colourful, interactive attraction in Osaka.
Address: レゴランド・ディスカバリー・センター大阪, 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, Japan
6. See panoramic city views from Harukas 300 Observatory
Go atop Harukas 300 to see a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and the Rokko Mountains. The observatory is on the 58th, 59th, and 60th floors of Abeno Harukas, the tallest building in Osaka and the whole of Japan. To complete your experience, dine at the Sky Garden 300 on the 58th floor, and shop for souvenirs at Shop Harukas 300 on the 59th floor.
Address: Abeno Harukas, 1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, Japan
7. Catch the sunset from Umeda Sky Building
As one of Osaka’s most recognisable landmarks, Umeda Sky Building is truly worth a visit. This skyscraper consists of two 40-storey towers connected by the Floating Garden Observatory on the 39th floor. Here, you’ll be greeted by 360-degree views of the city. And since you’re already here, why not wait for the dramatic sunset to make your experience even more memorable?
Address: Umeda Sky Building, 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, Japan
Though we barely scratched the surface of the many things to see and do in Osaka, these top attractions are already a good start to your adventure. Enjoy!