10 Things To Do in Osaka, Japan - The Country's Third Largest City

Have a list of things to do in Osaka, Japan! With numerous attractions and places to visit, you'll never run out of activities to do here.

Osaka is the third-largest city in Japan. With its popularity and a mixture of modern and historical places, it's not surprising that it's one of the most visited cities in Japan. I know you're dreaming of going here too! But do you have any idea what to do here? If not, then we're here to help!

From the famous and popular Osaka Castle to the excitement of Universal Studios Japan, you'll get the most out of this city. And in this article, we'll discuss to you the things you can do in Osaka, Japan that'll make your trip fun and memorable.

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Top Things to do in Osaka, Japan

1. Explore the center of Osaka; Dotonbori

Dotonbori in Osaka is popular with both foreign and local tourists. Blessed with abundant restaurants, cafes, theaters, arcades, and nightclubs, you'll have the best time here! It's located at the crossroads of Shinseibasi-suji and Namba Walk which are also interesting streets to go to. The liveliness, decor, and animations in Dotonbori are what make it one of the liveliest and picturesque cities in Japan. If you're foody, loves shopping, and fancy awesome neon lights and signages, then this is the place to be.

Suggested Tour: Osaka Dotonbori 5 Night Clubs Pass

2. Travel Back in Time at the Osaka Castle Park

The Osaka Castle was the home of the wife of 16th-century Japanese ruler Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Having the castle as the highlight, the garden that surrounds it which is called the Nishinomaru Garden is considered one of Osaka's best cherry blossom viewing spots. People can visit and go here for free. With the castle's aesthetic beauty, it makes a perfect subject for photography no matter what the season is. So, if you're interested in Osaka's history, then you shouldn't miss visiting this castle.

3. Be a Kid Again at Universal Studios Japan

Let's just say that your Japan trip wouldn't be complete if you will not go to Universal Studios in Osaka. This popular theme park is consists of shows, rides and restaurants which are based on popular movie themes, like Jaws, Harry Potter, Back to the Future and Terminator. This is the first place you should consider when you're in Osaka, especially if you're traveling with kids. There are a lot of simulators or visual games that are entertaining to both kids and adults.

Suggested Tour: Universal Studios Japan™ Ticket

4. See Amazing Views of Osaka at Kuchu Teien Observatory

This observatory is a bit off the beaten path but really worth the visit. It can be a little testy if you have a fear of heights though as there is a 360-degree view from the top. There is also a bar with some food and drink available to sit and enjoy the view. There isn't a lot of people during the daytime but can get crowded when it's getting dark as people want to catch the beautiful sunset and the amazing night view of Osaka.

5. Learn about Sea Animals at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

A nice way to learn and explore the world of sea animals is to visit aquariums. And Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the best aquariums in Japan. The smart and modern arrangement of display area for many kinds of animals from different regions of the world, especially many whale sharks make visitors satisfied and happy to visit. The illumination display will also make your visit memorable.

Suggested Tour: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Ticket

6. Join the liveliness of Minami (Namba)

The highlight of this street is the large lit crab billboard that stands out and a lot of tourists take pictures with it. Just like Dotonbori, Nanba/Namba is filled with eateries, restaurants, drugstores and you can also find the popular ramen chain here; the Ichiran ramen. This large area with underground tunnels is a must-see and visit in Osaka.

7. Go shopping at Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street

A haven for shop-goers! In Shinsaibashi-Suji, you'll see hundreds of stores on both sides of a very long shopping street. Brand names, second-hand goods, souvenirs, and luxury items, name it and you'll find them here! However, it may not be suitable for young kids as they can get tired and bored of walking (it's 3 km in total by the way). Also, if you want to avoid crowded areas, this is not the place for you as there is no time of the day that this street is not filled with people.

8. See various plants and flowers at Nakanoshima Park

Ideal for a lazy afternoon on a sunny day, and only a short 15-minute walk from Umeda. In Nakanoshima Park, you'll see lovely green grass to stretch out on, which is a rarity in Osaka, rose gardens, a few awesome places to eat nearby, and then a great place for people watching.

9. Have a taste of Japan delicacies at Kuromon Market

There is a reason why it's called "Real Osaka's Kitchen'. Going here at Kuromon Market is just a fantastic way to spend all your time salivating and enjoying food in Osaka! Here, you can find any signature dish of the city, from Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, Sashimi, whale skewers, strawberry mochi, and lot more! So, if you're in to have a taste with some of the authentic Japanese delicacies, you know where to go.

10. Experience tranquility at Shitennoji

Shitennoji is the oldest temple in Japan. It was established in the 6th century and is a good trip to try and understand Japanese culture. It also consists of pagodas and buddhas. All in all, the serene and tranquil surroundings allow you time to reflect.

With all these things to do in Osaka, Japan, you'll surely go back to this wonderful city. So if you're ready to have a trip to remember, then head your way to Japan and have a blast in Osaka!

About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.

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