Discover the Best of Osaka:Top 16 Things to Do and See

Last Updated: April 02,2024

Welcome to Osaka!

Looking for an exciting destination to add to your travel bucket list? Look no further than Osaka, Japan! This vibrant city is a hub of culture, food, and entertainment, with countless attractions and activities to explore. From traditional temples to modern museums, delicious cuisine to bustling shopping districts, Osaka truly has something for everyone.

We'll take you on a tour of the top 16 things to do in Osaka, so you can make the most of your time in this incredible city. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Osaka is sure to capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, let's dive in and explore all that Osaka has to offer!

Top 16 Things to Do

Universal Staudios Japan

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Are you're looking for an exciting experience during your trip to Osaka? Universal Staudiios Japan can be your first choice for it is a world-renown theme park pacekd with thrilling rides, shows and attractions for visitors of all agaes.

From the wiarding world of Harry Potter to the action-paccked world of Jurassic Park, Universal Stadios Japan can meet everyone's need. Take a ride on the thrilling rollercoasters, watch live performanc parades, and immerse yourself in the world of your favorite movies and characters.

Don't miss out the iconic experience, like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can explore the Hogwarts Castle, sip butterbeer and ride the exhilarating Harry Potter and the Fobidden Journey. Or step into the world of Jurassic Park and feel like you are in the middle of prehistrtical adventure and the thrilling Jurassic Park jurney.


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Explore the delicious food at Dotonbori

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Loctaed in the heart of the city's Namba district, Dotonbori is home to some of the most iconic food estalishments in Japan. Thhis vibrant and bustling street is famous for its wide variety of Japanese dishes, as well as its lively atmosphere and colorful neon lights.

From mouth-watering takyaki to sizzling teppanyaki, Dotonbori Street offers a feast for the senses. Sample local specialties like okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with a variety of ingredients, or kushikatsu, skewered meat and vageetables coated in crispy bread crumbs.

Don't foorget to stop by the street's iconic landmarks, including the giant crab sign and the Glico Man billboard. And after you've had your fill of delicious food, stroll along the Dotonbori River to take in the stuning views of Osaka's skyline.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

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Tempozan Ferris Wheel, one of the most iconic landmarks in Osaka, stands at a height of 112.5 meters and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroungings.

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel boasts 60 cabins, each of which can hold up to 8 passengers. As you ascend to the top, you'll be treated to stunning views of Osaka Bay, the mountains in the distance, and the bustling city below. It's a perfct spot to capture some Instagram-worthy shots of your trip. If you're visiting Osaka in the evening, don't miss the chance to ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel art night. The wheel is illuminated with vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere that's perfect for a romantic date or a fun night out with friends.

Tsutenkaku Tower 

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Tsutenkaku Tower ,which has a rich history, was first built in 1912 amd stands tall at 103 meters and is an iconic landmark of the city. You can enjoy stunning views of Osaka's skyline from the top of the tower.You can take the elevator up to the top of the tower, where you will be greeted by panoramic views of the city On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Kobe and Awaji Island. The obsernation deck is a great spot to take photos and capture memories of your trip to Osaka.

Kuromon Market

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Kuromon Market, located in the southern part of downtown Osaka, is one of the oldest markets in Osaka. The history of Kuromon Market can date back to 1902 when it was small maket primarily selling fish and seafood. The market has over 500 shops and stalls selling a wide rande of products ffrom seafood, meat, vegetables to fruits, sweets and seasonings. Here, you can taste many traditional Japanese foods such as takoyaki, sushi, sashimi, and tempura. Additionally, the market has many unique smacks such as raw beef, crab cakes, strawberry chocolate and fried beef.

Immerse yourself in the retro atmosphere of Shinsekai

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Shinseikai ,a vibrant and lively neighborhood in the heart of Osaka, is known for its rtro vibe. These area is a melting pot of colorful characters, brights, and mouth-watering cuisine.

Take a stroll down the streets of Shinsekai and be transported back in time to the early 20th century, with its distinct architecture and vintage charm. Here, you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and enterainment venues that cater to all tastes and budgets. As night falls, the neon lights of Shinsekai come alive, under the neon lights, you can immerse in the retro atmosphere and taste the local special dishes, such as kushikatsu, a delicious deep-fried skewer, and takoyaki, a ball-shaped snack filled with savory octopus.

Umeda Sky Building

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The Umeda Sky Building is a iconic landmark located in the heart of Osaka, Japan. As you make your way to the top of the building, you'll be greeted by a stunning 360-degree view of the cityscape, including the towering skycrapers of the business districtc and the winding canals of the city's waterways. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the distant mountains. Umeda Sky building also offers a range of entertainment options for visitors from variety of restaurants to cinema, Umeda Sky building can meet your need.

Osaka Castle

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Osaka Castle, also known as Osaka-jo, located in the heart of Osaka, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Japan and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. The history of Osaka Castle dates back to the 16 century. Osaka Castle played a significant role in the unification of Japan under the rule of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Around the castle is the beautiful park, which is a popular spot for viewing Osaka cherry blossom in the spring. Besides, you can climb to the top of the castle's main tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. From this vantage point, you can see all the way to the mountains in the distance, and get a sense of the sheer size and scope of this bustling metropolis.

Himeji Castle

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Himeji Castle is renowned for its stunning white walls and intricate architecture. It was designed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and is widely regarded as one of the finest surviving examples of Japanese castle architecture. In Himeiji Castle, you can explore the castle's many buildings, courtyards, and gardens, all of which have been carefully preserved and restored over the years. The castle's main keep, which rises seven stories high, offers spectacular views of the surrounding city and countryside. Inside, you can see the castle's original wooden beams and floors, as well as exhibits on the castle's history and significance. Overside the castle, you can stroll through the castle's beautiful gardens, which are designed in the traditional Japanese style. The gardens feature winding paths, stone bridges, and tranquil ponds and are particularly beautiful during the Japanese cherry blossom season and the fall foliage season.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

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Osaka Aquqrium Kaiyukan, located in the Tempozan Harbor Village, in the bay area of Osaka, is one of the largest public aquariums in the world and offers a chance to explore the fascinating and diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean. The aquarium is designed im a unique way. There are 16 tanks in total, each representing a different region of the Pacifi Ocean, from the icy waters of the Antarctic to the tropical waters of the equator. The aquarium's main tank, called the "Pacific Ocean Tank,"is one of the largest in the world and contains several species of fish, shark, rays, and sea turtles."Tunnel Tank" is one of the most impressive exhibits in the aquarium, wher you can walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by water and see various marine creatures swimming above and around you.

National Museum of Ethnology

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The National Museum of Ethonology in Osaka is a fascinating place and offers the cahnce to discover the diversity of Japanese and world cultures. The museum features exhibits on various cultures from around the world, including Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas. Here, you can explore the different trditions. lifestyles, and beliefs of people from defferrent regions througgh a variety of displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. In "Japan Zoen", which features displays of the country's rich cultural heritage, can learn about the traditional art of Kabuki theater, examine delicate kimonos, and admire the intricate designs of Noh masks.

Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda

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The Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda is a unique and interactive museum and is dedicated to the history and culture of instant noodles, partically the famous cup noodles. In the Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda, you can explore the exhibits showcasing the history and development of instant noodles, including the story of how Momofuku Ando came up with the idea for instant noodles during a period of food shortage in Japan. The exciting thing is the instant noodle factory where you can make your own custom cup noodles. Starting with an uncooked block of noodles, you can choose your favorite soup flavor and toppings and then package your noodles in a custom-designed cup.

Maishima Pottery Museum

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Maishima Pottery Museum id dedicated to showcasing the beauty and history of pottery, with a focus on the works of local Japanese potters. Here, you can explore the history of pottery in Japan, from ancient Jomon pottery to contemporary ceramic art. More exciting, the museum offers an oppotunity to try your hand at pottery-making. The museum offers a range of workshops, from short introductory cources to more in-depth programs for serious hobbyists. You can learn about the techniques used in traditional Japanese pottery-making and ecen create their own unique pieces to take home.

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

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Osaka Museum of Housing and Living provides visitors with a glimpse of life in Osaka during the Edo and Meiji periods(17th century to early 20th century).Visitors are transported back in time, with a realistic replica of an Edo-period street complete with traditional ships, houses, and even a canal once entering the museum. The exhibits showcase how people lived, worked, and interacted with one another during this time. Foranyone interested in history, culture and architecture, Osaka Museum of Housing and Living is a fascinating destination which offers a unique and impressive experience that transports visitors back in time and provides a deeper understanding of life in old Osaka.

Tower of the Sun

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Tower of the Sun is designed by renowned Japanese artist Okamotoo which was constructed as a centerpiece for 1970 World Exposition with 70 meters height. Tower of the Sun features a golden face on the fromt of the tower, which represents the future, and black face on the back, which represents the past. The tower also features a variety of other artistic elements, including sculptures and murals, that represent the themes of peace and humanity.

Shitennoji Temple

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Shitennoji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Japan, which built in the 6th century by Prince Shotoku, a prominemt figure in Japanese history. The temple is dedicated to the Four Heavenly Kings, and it was once a symbol of the power and influence of Buddhist faith in Japan. The temple complex consits of several buildings, each with its unique architectural style and cultural significance. The Main Hall, known as the Kondo, is the heart of the temple and houses a statue of Prince Shotoku. The Five-Story Pagoda, a symbol of Japanese Buddhism, standstall at 55 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Shitennoji Temple is also known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Shitennoji Flea Market, which is held on the 21st and 22nd of each month. Visitors can browse through a vast array of antiques, handicrafts, and other goods while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Here are the top 16 things to do in Osaka, and don't forget to experience the best Onsen in Osaka to beautify your skin and drive away your fatigue for a more enjoyable journey the next day.

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