Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, has quickly become one of the country’s must-see destinations. In 2023, more than 15.6 million international tourists visited this vibrant metropolis. Known colloquially as the “City of Merchants” and “Japan’s Kitchen,” Osaka is an ideal vacation destination for travelers interested in Japanese culture, food, and dynamic cityscapes. This bustling hub was largely rebuilt after World War II, transforming into a sprawling concrete jungle. While it lacks many of the traditional architectural landmarks found in places like Kyoto, Osaka offers a fantastic blend of modern attractions and neon-lit nightlife.
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Explore Osaka’s Minari District
Minari, Osaka’s southern district, is truly the heart of all things happening in the city. If you’re looking for Osaka tourist attractions, you can’t miss Dotonbori. Located within Minari, Dotonbori is the epicenter of entertainment, food, shopping, and nightlife. The area is famous for its dazzling neon signs, bustling clubs, themed bars and cafes, and diverse restaurants. The area is best explored at night when the soft glow of neon lights reflects off the Dotonbori Canal, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Tourists often seek out the iconic Glico Man above the Ebisu Bridge. This giant neon sign of a runner on a blue racetrack is an iconic photo op.
As you stroll through streets and alleys throughout the greater Minari area, make sure to try at least one of Osaka’s signature dishes:
- Takoyaki
Fried batter balls filled with octopus, topped with mayonnaise and sweet sauce. - Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake packed with cabbage, seafood, meat, and scallions. - Fugu
The infamous blowfish, a delicacy best enjoyed at specialized restaurants. - Ramen
One of Japan’s most iconic noodle dishes, available in countless variations. - Kitsune Soba
Udon noodles topped with deep-fried tofu in a sweet sauce.
Experience a Fusion of Culture and Nature at Expo Commemoration Park
For travelers seeking things to do in Osaka beyond the typical city experience, Expo Commemoration Park offers a mix of history, nature, and interactive entertainment. Located 30 minutes north of central Osaka, Expo Commemoration Park is a historical site that hosted Expo ‘70, Asia’s first World’s Fair. Today, the grounds are used for gardens, museums, and attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Key places to visit include:
- Tower of the Sun
A landmark installation designed for Expo ‘70, symbolizing the energies of the past, present, and future. - Flower Hill
A large hill dedicated to seasonal flowers. - National Museum of Ethnology
A fascinating collection of film, photographs, and other cultural artifacts depicting Japanese culture and everyday life. - Expocity
One of Japan’s largest shopping and entertainment complexes. Within Expocity, some of the most popular points of interest include:- Redhorse Osaka Ferris Wheel
The tallest Ferris wheel in Japan, offering panoramic views during its 18-minute rotation. - NIFREL Interactive Aquazoo
A unique fusion of an aquarium, zoo, and art museum designed to engage all five senses.
- Redhorse Osaka Ferris Wheel
Learn About Japanese History at Osaka Castle
As one of Osaka’s top tourist attractions, Osaka Castle is a historical site located within Osaka Castle Park. Visiting this landmark provides insight into Japan’s feudal past while offering a peaceful escape from the urban rush. The castle is one of the few buildings in the city featuring traditional architecture, including moats and other fortified structures. The main tower is surrounded by acres of green spaces. Plum Grove and Nishinomaru Garden in particular are popular with visitors for their cherry blossoms in spring and autumnal foliage in fall. A new museum is opening in spring 2025. A ticket to the castle will include admission to the museum, which will showcase excavated stone walls from the original structure.
Escape Into Nature at Minoo Park
Just north of Osaka, Minoo Park, also called Minoh Park, is an oasis of lush greenery and scenic beauty. This recreational area is easily accessible by train, so it’s perfect for those eager to see some of Japan’s natural beauty without venturing too far from the city. The park is particularly stunning in fall and is a top spot for viewing fall foliage. Starting from Hankyu Minoo Station, visitors walk a 3-kilometer path along the Minoo River to the park’s real highlight, Minoo Waterfall.
Visit the World-Class Kaiyukan Aquarium
Ranked among the biggest and most impressive aquariums in the world, Kaiyukan Aquarium sits right on Osaka Bay. The aquarium features 17 exhibits, each dedicated to a specific oceanic environment. Altogether, it takes visitors about two and a half hours to complete the entire aquarium. Some highlights include:
- Pacific Ocean
The aquarium’s centerpiece, this massive 9-meter-deep tank holds 5,400 tons of water and features the ocean’s largest fish, whale sharks. - Japan Forest
This environment recreates a sunlit Japanese forest ecosystem and features the Asian small clawed otter. - Antarctica
This icy exhibit showcases the region’s most notorious critter, the king penguin.
Pair Your Osaka Trip With Other Must-See Cities
Osaka is a fantastic standalone destination, but its central location makes it easy to explore other major Japanese cities too. If you have extra time, consider pairing your trip with one of these must-visit spots:
- Kyoto
Just a short 15-minute Shinkansen ride from Osaka, Kyoto offers a completely different atmosphere. Known for its preserved temples, shrines, and historic districts, Kyoto is the place to experience Japan’s traditional culture. Walk through the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine’s torii gates, explore the bamboo forest in Arashiyama, or partake in a traditional tea ceremony.
- Tokyo
Japan’s bustling capital is just a two-and-a-half-hour bullet train ride away. If you’re looking for cutting-edge technology, vibrant nightlife, and an endless variety of attractions, Tokyo is a perfect complement to Osaka. Explore the trendy streets of Shibuya and Harajuku, visit historic temples in Asakusa, or experience the futuristic digital art installations at teamLab Planets.
- Nara
If you’re interested in Japan’s early history, Nara is an easy day trip from Osaka, as it’s just 45 minutes away by train. The city is home to Todai-ji Temple, which houses Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue, and Nara Park, where hundreds of friendly deer roam freely.
