Things to do in Osaka

Things to do in Osaka 

Osaka’s buzzing nightlife and neon-lit streets mixed with historic buildings and ancient temples showcases how tradition is still deeply rooted alongside the city’s vibrant and modern energy. 

Home to some of the best street food in Japan, the freshest seafood markets and shopping destinations like you’ve never experienced before, along with iconic cultural landmarks like Osaka Castle that’ll catch you in a moment of complete stillness and awe, Osaka’s colourful aura is what keeps travellers coming back. 

Whether it’s your first time in Osaka or it’s your second or third, every trip is an opportunity to experience something different. A place where foodies thrive, whether you’re slurping up a warm bowl of ramen by Dotonbori River, or you’re satisfying your sweet tooth with a fresh strawberry daifuku (or two), there’s something new for the palette waiting to be discovered. Come hungry and leave wishing you could extend your trip — don’t say we didn’t warn you.  

Unique {geoName} things you can’t do anywhere else

When it comes to travelling to different countries and cities, you want to experience things that you can’t do anywhere else - and we hear you. Below are some of our favourite Osaka-only experiences that we think deserve a spot on your Osaka itinerary. 

• Go go-karting (Osaka-style): No, we’re not talking about going around a designated track in the middle of nowhere. We’re talking about go-karting in the city streets—Disney-themed onesies, mandatory. Suit up and zip through urban streets with an English-speaking guide when you book this unique Public Go-Kart Experience. 
• Themed cafes: Themed cafes are popular in Japan, and in Osaka, there are a few that really stand out. Particularly if you’re into Snoopy — there is a Peanuts Cafe filled with Peanuts/Snoopy themed foods, decor, as well as official Peanuts merchandise for you to take home with you. 
• Cup Noodles Museum: There are museums, and then there’s a cup noodle museum. Whether you’re passionate about cup noodles, or you’re just keen to customise your very own cup noodle (with your favourite seasonings, of course), don’t miss this unique experience at the Cup Noodles Museum in Osaka. 

Best {geoName} attractions to see

• Osaka Castle: You simply cannot go to Osaka without ticking off a visit to Osaka Castle. You can get tickets into the 16th century fortress and explore historic weaponry and artifacts that once belonged to the Toyotomi clan. After, take a leisurely stroll around the surrounding gardens — where every corner is a photo opp.  
• Dotonbori: Eat your heart out at Dotonbori. Home to some of the best street food stalls in Japan. Think piping hot takoyaki balls, mouth-watering okonomiyaki, warm bowls of ramen from the viral Ichiran, pillowy strawberry daifuku and crunchy and sweet tangulu — all against a backdrop of neon-lit sign boards and the iconic Dotonbori River. 
• Universal Japan: No one quite does theme parks like Japan, and Universal Japan in Osaka is one for the thrill-seekers. With adrenaline-rushing rides and a calling to heal your inner child, Universal Japan is a must-visit spot for kids, big or small. 
• Umeda Sky Building: There’s something truly magical when it comes to panoramic, uninterrupted views of the city from high above. Head to Umeda Sky Building at sunset and watch as the city comes alive. 
• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: One of the world’s biggest aquariums, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan takes you on a journey into the Pacific Ocean like never before. 

Best {geoName} day trips and tours

From day trips to neighbouring cities like Kyoto and Nara to all-inclusive tours and experiences in the heart of Osaka, below are some of the best activities to add to your trip. 

• Osaka to Kyoto and Nara Day Trip: Just 15-minutes by bullet train, Kyoto and Nara make for perfect day trip destinations from Osaka. Wander through the serene Sagano Bamboo Forest, and admire the gilded Kinkaku‑ji in Kyoto. Then head to Nara, where you can feed friendly bowing deer in Nara Park. To make travel seamless, consider grabbing a Keihan Railway Kyoto–Osaka Sightseeing Pass and the Osaka Metro 1-Day Pass.
• Osaka Sky Vista or Nani Wonder Sightseeing Bus Tour: When it comes to planning your trip, sometimes it’s best to leave it to experts. And by experts, we mean friendly guides and an open-roof sightseeing bus that stops at all the best spots in Osaka (so you don’t miss a thing). On board the Sightseeing Bus Tour, you’ll visit iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Tsutenkaku, Shitennoji Temple, and more, all while enjoying panoramic views from the top of the bus. Less walking, more sight-seeing. 
• Osaka Night Food Tour: Exactly what you’d assume from its name, this delicious tour is for the foodies. From hidden gems in the secret alleys of Dotonburi, to Michelin-rated takoyaki, and lively local izakayas, you’ll find a delectable delight to suit your taste, here. 
• Kuromon Market Food Tour: We weren’t joking when we said Osaka is for the foodies. The Kuromon Markets are expansive, and when there’s only so much you can eat in one visit, it’s vital you try the best of the best. That’s why a booking a food tour at the markets may be the most underrated hack. During the Kuromon Market Food Tour you’ll hit 5 food stalls, trying Osaka’s best seafood, freshest produce, and melt-in-your-mouth beef. You’ll also get the chance to visit the neighbouring Kitchen Town, Sennichimae Doguyasuji, where you’ll learn about traditional Japanese cooking tools and skills from Osaka’s most renowned chefs. 

Budgeting for things to do in {geoName}

Travelling on a tight budget? Or just keen to know how much you need to put aside for the full Osaka experience? Doing your research before you arrive will ensure there are no surprises for your wallet. Whether you’re keen on affordable experiences or you’re looking for a reason to splurge (because, why not?), Osaka offers the best of both worlds.

Luckily, street food delights like takoyaki, daifuku, or okonomiyaki are cheap and delicious, which means you can sample local flavors without breaking the bank. 

Japan’s public transport system is unmatched. Both efficient and affordable while still being relatively easy to use (even for non-Japanese speakers). Trust us, you won’t regret skipping on the expensive taxis and sticking to public transport during your time here. 

If you’re looking to splurge, consider a traditional kaiseki or omakase dinner — these Japan exclusives, in our humble opinion, well worth indulging in. 

Free things to do in {geoName}

Whether you’re on a budget or not, finding free things to do is always welcomed with open arms. Here are some great free activities to add to your trip:

• Explore the neon vibes of Dotonbori: Wander along Dotonbori’s neon-lit canal and snap Insta-worthy photos with iconic neon signs like the Glico Man. Here, you can also watch street performers and soak up Osaka’s lively energy without spending a single penny.
• Visit Osaka Castle’s surrounds: While you do need tickets to enter Osaka Castle, it’s actually its gorgeous exterior and serene surrounds that make up a big chunk of the typical Osaka Castle experience. Skip the entrance fee and take a stroll at Osaka Castle Park. Plus, it’s also the perfect spot to see cherry blossoms if you’re there during April. 
• Explore Nakanoshima Park: Looking for a tranquil riverside escape? Explore the scenic paths at Nakanoshima Park for free.
• Wander through the streets of Shinsekai: Experience old-school Osaka with retro arcades, window shop at quirky boutiques, and immerse yourself in the nostalgic Showa-era vibe at Shinsekai.
• Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine: Entry is free to one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. It’s famous for its bold red-lacquered bridge and peaceful grounds.