10 Best Things to Do in Osaka for an Absolutely Thrilling Visit!

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Contents

Introduction

Osaka, Japan's vibrant heartbeat next to Tokyo, stands as the dynamic capital of Osaka Prefecture. More than just a financial hub, Osaka is a vibrant cultural melting pot that brings life to the entire region.

Imagine exploring some of the world’s largest aquariums and highest Ferris wheels, visiting ancient historic sites, indulging in sumo excitement, and unwinding in lush, scenic spots—all topped off with a nightlife and dishes that you'll crave endlessly!

Explore Osaka's Iconic Castle

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Osaka Castle, or "Osaka-jo" as it's known in Japanese, stands as one of Japan’s iconic landmarks—and it's easy to see why. With its impressive five stories, the castle boasts nearly 450 years of history, making it one of the nation’s most awe-inspiring architectural wonders. 

For a breathtaking panoramic view of Osaka's cityscape, make your way to the observation deck at the top of the castle. You can either climb the stairs for a bit of exercise or take the elevator for a quick ascent. 

Besides the stunning views, the castle also houses a museum brimming with over 10,000 historical artifacts. This extensive collection offers a deeper understanding of Osaka's significant influence throughout Japan's history, providing a rich, educational experience that complements the visual splendor from above.

It’s the ideal spot for a half-day trip, where you can soak in the tranquil beauty of its lush surroundings and immerse yourself in Osaka's fascinating past!

Dotonbori: Osaka's Must-See Entertainment Hub!

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If you’re visiting Osaka, skipping Dotonbori is simply not an option!  

This bustling hotspot has been a hub of entertainment for over 400 years, evolving from a historic theater district into a thrilling nightlife paradise. Today, Dotonbori dazzles with its towering neon signs and iconic landmarks like the Glico runner billboard. 

Stroll along the lively riverbanks to experience classic venues like Kani Douraku with its trademark giant crab, and inhale the enticing aromas from open-air ramen stands. 

Extend your adventure to Shinsaibashi, where the night is alive with an array of bars, offering an unforgettable, retro-futuristic experience of Japan’s bustling urban life.

What to Eat in Osaka? A Lot, Actually!

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Food enthusiasts will find Osaka a paradise, catering to every palate with its delectable offerings. Explore the flavors of Osaka with local specialties such as tako-yaki, a scrumptious snack of ball-shaped wheat flour batter filled with diced octopus, pickled ginger, tempura bits, and green onion, all cooked to perfection.

For a hearty follow-up, try the okonomiyaki, a savory pancake overflowing with cabbage, meat, and seafood, all crowned with traditional toppings such as aonori, katsuobushi, and a drizzle of Japanese mayonnaise.

You also need to taste your way through other Osaka signature dishes like Kushikatsu. These tasty skewers feature everything from meat and vegetables to unusual options like strawberries, all encased in a crispy batter and fried to perfection.

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Another iconic dish you must try is Kitsune Udon, a deceptively simple yet delicious noodle soup. It features thick wheat noodles submerged in a hot broth, crowned with a piece of deep-fried tofu known as 'aburaage.' 

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The name 'Kitsune', which means fox in Japanese, comes from an old belief that fried tofu is a fox's favorite food (aren’t we all a bit foxy when it comes to loving this dish?)

And if those don't tickle your fancy, not to worry—Osaka serves up a world of flavors, from traditional Japanese dishes like ramen to Italian, French, Chinese, and Korean cuisines!

Osaka Is a Dream Come True for Anyone With a Sweet Tooth!

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Dive into Osaka's sweet scene with a variety of unique ice cream flavors that cater to every taste, including matcha green tea, soda, and charcoal. For those with dietary needs, soy ice cream is readily available. Don't miss the famous ice cream balls at Ze-Roku, where the fun concept of a crispy shell melting around creamy ice cream has earned it a spot on every dessert lover's list. 

You also need to explore the fluffier, drool-worthy Japanese pancakes and the iconic Osaka-style crepes, rolled like a cone and stuffed with ice cream and fruit. 

When you're in Osaka, you've got to try Rikuro's Cheesecake. It’s famous across Japan for a reason! These cheesecakes are super jiggly, unbelievably fluffy, and baked fresh right in the store. Just follow the irresistible scent wafting through the streets and treat yourself to a cake, maybe even sit down in their stylish café for coffee and cake—an experience you won't want to miss!

And, with each season, the city introduces exclusive desserts like cherry blossom sweets in spring, adding a timely flavor to your visit!

Explore the Roaring Beauty at Namba Yasaka Shrine

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Tucked right in the heart of Namba, just an eight-minute stroll from the bustling Nankai Station, you'll find the Namba Yasaka Shrine. It's a spot steeped in local lore, guarded by the area’s protective deity. Although once part of a grand complex of Buddhist temples, sadly, they were lost to wartime air raids. 

What stands out here is the lion-shaped stage—a majestic yet slightly eerie sight. It’s a unique architectural gem that contrasts sharply with the simpler temple next to it. Built in 1975, the stage has a charmingly retro vibe that could rival any other attraction.

Towering at 12 meters tall and stretching seven meters deep, the lion’s massive mouth is believed to devour evil spirits and bring fortune, particularly for those facing exams or important business milestones. 

It’s the perfect backdrop for some truly memorable photos—so don't forget your camera!

Osaka's Must-Visit Nature Spots

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Walking Tour (2023) (4K HDR)

Nature and animal enthusiasts will find a treasure trove of experiences in Osaka, including two standout attractions: the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and the Nagai Botanical Garden.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest in the world and a marvel of marine presentation. Renowned for its innovative approach, the Kaiyukan brings the vibrant and dynamic marine life of the Pacific Rim to life by mimicking their natural habitats. With over 15 massive tanks, each dedicated to a specific region of the Pacific Rim, visitors can embark on an immersive journey across the Pacific.

For those who appreciate terrestrial beauty, the Nagai Botanical Garden offers a serene escape. Spread over 24.2 hectares, this expansive garden is a haven for wild birds and a living library of about 1,000 tree species. 

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Seasonal flowers bloom in vibrant displays around a central pond, creating a picturesque setting for leisurely walks or in-depth exploration of the natural world.

And if you’re looking to step away from the city's buzz, Minoh Falls is your perfect escape, just a leisurely half-hour stroll from Umeda Station. It’s especially breathtaking during the fall, when the foliage turns fiery and the waterfalls become a backdrop for a spectacular seasonal display. 

The trail is lined with stalls offering something you won’t find just anywhere—deep-fried maple leaf tempura. It might sound unusual, but this sweet, sesame-flavored treat is a delightful energy booster for your hike. Just watch out for the local macaques; they’re notorious for cheekily snatching food and bags from unwary hikers!

See Osaka Like Never Before from Tempozan Ferris Wheel! 

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Get ready for a thrilling experience on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, standing at an impressive (though a bit scary) 112 meters! When it opened on July 12, 1997, it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, offering breathtaking 360° views during a 15-minute ride. 

From your vantage point, you can gaze over Osaka Bay, the bustling city of Osaka, and beyond to the Rokko Mountains and Kobe. Look east to see Mount Ikoma, west to the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, south towards Kansai International Airport, and north to the mountainous horizons. 

What makes the ride even more exhilarating are the see-through seats and floors in each gondola, providing a feeling of floating in the air as you take in the panoramic sights. This Ferris wheel adventure is not an average ride but a sky-high journey into the heart of Japan's stunning landscapes!

Don’t Miss Out on a Full Sumo Experience in Osaka

How to Enjoy THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA!

Whether you're a wrestling fan or not, watching sumo in Osaka is an exhilarating experience you simply can’t miss. At THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA, you can experience the fascinating history of sumo that stretches back over 1,500 years. From the moment the curtain rises, you’re in for a treat with performances by former professional sumo wrestlers on a full-sized dohyo. 

After enjoying the opening act, you’ll be guided through everything about sumo—from history and forbidden moves to rules and winning techniques—all narrated with humor and in fluent English. 

Don’t miss out on trying a sumo suit yourself, or indulging in a traditional Japanese bento filled with local Osaka delicacies while you enjoy the show. Finally, there’s plenty of shopping for original goods and Kansai souvenirs to remember your day by. It’s a complete sumo package!

Explore the Yayoi Culture at Osaka's Exclusive Museum

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Step into the past at the Osaka Prefectural Museum of Yayoi Culture, the only museum in Japan dedicated exclusively to the Yayoi period. Located in Izumi, Osaka Prefecture, this archaeological gem offers an in-depth look at the Yayoi people, who thrived from around 300 B.C. to 300 A.D. 

The Yayoi culture was characterized by its permanently settled communities. People during this period built their lives around villages composed of thatched houses, marking a significant shift towards stable, agricultural societies in ancient Japan.

As you wander through the museum, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the complex societies and cultures that shaped early Japan. Don’t rush—take your time to soak in the rich history and cultural experience that the Osaka Prefectural Museum of Yayoi Culture has to offer!

Centuries of Craftsmanship in Osaka

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As a vibrant hub for traditional arts, Osaka offers a captivating glimpse into crafts passed down through generations. The city is famed for its diverse range of traditional crafts, including textiles, pottery, and lacquerware, each developed with a commitment to excellence over centuries. 

To truly experience the heart of Osaka’s craft culture, wander through the city’s craft districts, where numerous workshops and stores showcase these renowned creations, allowing you to take home a piece of history—quite literally!

Osaka's Best Offerings, Now at Your Fingertips!

Osaka is the epitome of authentic Japanese charm, making it a top destination for any traveler. But if Osaka is out of reach, you can still capture its essence from home. 

Over 3,000 local retailers across Japan have partnered with the online marketplace ZenPlus, giving you access to an incredible selection of over 5 million Japanese products. 

Just dream up an item from Osaka or any other Japanese city, search for it, load up your virtual cart (there's plenty of room!), place your order, and soon a neatly packaged box will arrive at your doorstep—making it seem like you've just returned from a Japanese shopping spree!