Choose from 22 Fun Things to Do in Osaka
Shitenno-ji Temple
One of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples, Shitenno-ji Temple was built by Prince Shotoku around 593 AD, a cultural hero of Japan who helped to bring the adoption of Buddhism to the country.
Raked-gravel grounds surround the temple, and it is entered through a huge stone tori gate dating back to 1294, the oldest in the country.
A focus for Buddhists in Osaka and around the country, the temple has been reconstructed over the centuries but retains its original 6th century design. The complex includes a many-floored tower, pagoda, lecture hall and gate. Most of the current structures are from the last rebuilding in 1963.
Many Buddhist festivals and activities are held at the temple during the year.
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The temple is in the south of the city near Tenno-ji Park. The closest station is Shitennoji-mae.
Hozenji Yokocho
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Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo)
- The castle is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors to Osaka.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Give yourself at least 45 minutes to tour the castle and grounds.
- All areas of the castle are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Shinsaibashi
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Image provide by the Osaka Government Tourism Bureau
Nakanoshima
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Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine
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Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)
With 27 of the largest tanks in the world, the aquarium houses 16 main exhibits with the goal of reflecting the sea life's natural habitat. Guests can learn about all of the sea creatures through themed exhibition halls and interactive activities. Only a thin sheet of glass separates visitors from the denizens of the deep, from whale sharks and sand-scuttling spider crabs to jellyfish, otters, seals, dolphins and penguins.
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Kuromon Ichiba Market
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Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street
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Ohara Museum of Art
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Tsutenkaku Tower
Beautifully illuminated and outlined in neon by night, the tower has a decidedly kitsch but cute 1950s futuristic look. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the summit’s fifth level to visit the popular good luck symbol, Billiken, the God of Happiness. A popular American doll in the early 1900s, Billiken was enshrined in the nearby Luna Park, but went missing when the park closed in 1923. To revive the tower and park, a replica was put in the tower and is considered a good luck symbol. Each year thousands of visitors place a coin in his donation box and rub the soles of his feet to make their wishes come true.
Tsutenkaku also boasts some other cool features. The neon lights at the top of the tower are also a weather vane and will predict the next day's forecast. And the clock located on the east side of the building is huge - 18 feet (5.5 meters) across and weighing about 55lbs (25kg). There is also a theater and a few toy museums located within!
Practical Info
The closest stations are Ebisucho and Dobutsuen-mae.
Osaka Museum of History
Exhibits chronicle Osaka's history, beginning in ancient times when Osaka served as Japan's first capital and site of the Naniwa Palace and ending with exhibits on the city's bustling shopping arcades of the early Showa Period.
Designed from top to bottom, visitors start on the 10th floor and work their way down to the 7th, passing through galleries which focus on the Age of the Naniwa Palace, the Age of the Hongan-ji Temple, and the Age of Greater Osaka. Archaeological remains are displayed in the building’s basement.
Take the Highlights Course if you’re short of time, or follow a more leisurely and detailed route with the Complete Course.
Practical Info
The closest JR station is Morinomiya Station on the JR Loop Line, a 20-30 minute walk from the museum.
Nipponbashi
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Minami
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World Trade Center Cosmo Tower
The ride to the top is in a glass-walled elevator, taking just 80 seconds to soar to the 52nd floor.The views are specially magical and twinkling at dusk and night when you can watch the sun set over Osaka. You can even see planes taking off and landing at Kansai Airport!
There are several restaurants and bars, jazz music, and cozy seats designed for two that provide a comfortable vantage point to sit back and take in the views from the top of the world.
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Abeno Harukas
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Deer Park (Nara Park)
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Dotonbori
- Dotonbori is a must-see for foodies and nightlife seekers.
- This is a good spot to try Japanese street food: look out for hot-off-the-grill yakitori kebabs, savory okonomiyaki pancakes, and deep-fried octopus balls.
- Don’t miss the iconic Glico running man, a huge illuminated sign featuring the Glico candy company’s mascot.
America Mura
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Universal Studios Japan
- Universal Studios Japan is a fantastic attraction for families who want to give the kids a break from the temples and museums.
- Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared to do lots of walking.
- If you have a 1-day pass, plan your schedule carefully to ensure you don’t miss the shows, parades, and rides that most interest you.
- Express passes, Single Rider lines, and a Child Switch system are all available and can save hours of time waiting to go on rides.
- Universal Studios is wheelchair accessible, and many rides offer priority access to wheelchair users.
- On-site facilities include ATMs, coin lockers, and various restaurants, cafés, and gift shops.