Our love for Japan keeps on growing! After a two-week trip in Osaka, we’re here to share the best things to do around the city. Osaka is known for its modern architecture, nightlife, and hearty street food. Did you know? Osaka is the second-largest city in Japan after Tokyo.
Quick Tip:If you’re flying from Honolulu, Hawaii, be sure to check on AirAsia for roundtrip deals. We found a roundtrip ticket for $285!
10 THINGS TO DO IN OSAKA, JAPAN
1. EXPERIENCE DOTONBORI AT NIGHT!
Dotonbori is the heart of Osaka nightlife! The area is filled with theaters, restaurants, cafes, bars, arcades, and nightclubs. On our first night in Osaka, we walked over to Dotonbori and experienced the nightlife and food endless food stalls. We recommend staying at Hotel The Flag since it’s walking distance to Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi area but just outside of all the noise and busy people.
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2. GO SHOPPING AT SHINSAIBASHI
Speaking of Shinsaibashi, it’s known for its shopping arcade. It’s a popular shopping destination in Osaka that runs 600 meters long. Once the shops have opened, be prepared for crowds throughout the day and night.
3. VISIT OSAKA CASTLE
One of the most famous landmarks in Osaka is Osaka Castle.
Once the largest castle in Japan when originally built in the 1580s, this castle has an observation platform with city views and a history museum that uses holograms, 3D pictures and other technologies to describe the history of the castle and the period during which it was built.
4. EAT AT ICHIRAN RAMEN
One of the reasons we love Japan is because of ambrosial food. Ichiran Ramen has been raved by many. Our first time trying it was in Osaka at Ichiran Ramen Shinsaibashi. It’s definitely the best ramen we’ve ever tasted – be sure to taste it during your visit to Osaka!
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5. RIDE THE TEMPOZAN FERRIS WHEEL
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The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is the largest Ferris wheel in Japan. It offers a panoramic view of the city and Osaka Bay. If you’re not afraid of heights, this is a must thing to do!
6. SHOP AROUND ORANGE STREET
Orange Street is known for its fashionable shops and cute cafes. You’ll find streetwear from affordable to high-end. For all the hype beast’s out there, they have the brands, this is where you belong! Stores such as Supreme, BAPE, Head Porter, just to name a few.
7. VISIT THE CUP NOODLES MUSEUM
This was the first activity we did in Osaka – visiting the Cup Noodles Museum. It’s dedicated to ramen noodle cups, the museum showcases the mind-boggling number of instant ramen flavor variations that have come out over the years and a reproduction of the hut where Momofuku Ando first created them. It’s a fun place for families where you can create your very own ramen noodle cup!
8. GO ON A FOOD TOUR
One thing we love to do when visiting a new country or city is to go on a food tour. The best way to experience a culture is through food. There are multiple food tours in Osaka. We recommend going with Magical Trip as they offer multiple Osaka food tours!
9. WATCH A SUMO TOURNAMENT
Watching a Sumo tournament is added to our bucket list and will definitely happen the next time we visit Japan! Be sure to buy your sumo tickets way in advance as they are known to be sold out. Osaka hosts a tournament during the month of March.
10. SPEND A DAY AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN
You can never go wrong with a visit to a theme park. Universal Studios Japan is located in Osaka. It’s a great place to spend the day with the entire family!
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10 THINGS TO DO IN JAPAN
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WHERE TO STAY IN OSAKA, JAPAN
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ST. REGIS OSAKA
AIRBNB IN OSAKA
There are Airbnb’s available throughout Osaka. If you’re not familiar with Airbnb, it’s an online marketplace for arranging or offering lodging, primarily homestay, or tourism experiences. Get $40 off your first booking at any Airbnb in Osaka!
For more places to stay in Osaka, Booking.com offers hotels, apartments, and hostels. You get free cancellation on most rooms and the best price guarantee!
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2 Comments
These are great suggestions. Kyoto, with its ancient temples, was my favorite city I visited in Japan. It looks like Osaka would be an easy day trip from Kyoto, allowing the combination of Kyoto’s spirituality, with Osaka’s attractions. Thank you for the tips!
Mahalo for the kind words Kimberly! Kyoto to Osaka is a day journey easily and highly worth it. As you mentioned, Kyoto’s vibe, especially in the outer areas of the main city has a truly different, almost magical aura about it. Peace and calm.
Thank you for reading!