What to do in Osaka? The 9 best attractions
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Osaka is a city rich in culture, history and excellent food, which has become one of the most popular travel destinations in the Land of the Rising Sun and is only an hour away from Kyoto and Nara , or a two and a half hour shinkansen ride from Tokyo . If you want to know what to do in Osaka, get ready for a long and very diverse list! From traditional street food to authentic Japanese culture, Osaka has stunning attractions. In this post you will get a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to this wonderful city.
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Table of Contents
Osaka weather
- December to February: Wintery and cold. Can drop to -5 degrees.
- March to May: Spring, recommended season for travelers. Around 10-20 degrees, a little rainy.
- June to August: Summer. Temperatures reach 30 degrees, it can be rainy.
- September to November: Autumn, pleasant and cool, about 15-20 degrees.
What to do in Osaka? The 9 best attractions
Osaka has a variety of attractions, from really interesting museums to amazing botanical gardens and parks.
Osaka Castle
One of the main historical sites in Japan, a symbol of power and history. The castle was built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle is surrounded by canals and manicured gardens, which provide a pleasant and interesting walking route. Inside you will find a museum that displays artifacts and displays about the history of the castle and the period in which it was built.
History Museum
The museum is located next to Osaka Castle and features an impressive modern architectural structure. Inside the museum there are displays that simulate the history of the city from ancient times to the 20th century. Each floor of the museum is dedicated to a different period, and visitors can view reconstructions of life scenes from the past, archaeological tools and exhibits that demonstrate the different influences that different periods had on the city and its residents.
Peace Museum
Dedicated to documenting the effects of World War II on the city and efforts to maintain peace in the world. The museum was opened with the aim of commemorating the victims and teaching about the importance of peace and international cooperation. The museum displays artifacts, photographs and documents that tell the story of the destruction caused by the bombings, the experiences of survivors, and the city's post-war reconstruction efforts. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events that promote messages of hope and peace discourse among the younger generation.
Sakuya Konohana Kan Botanical Gardens
A beautiful park that also has indoor botanical gardens. The gardens display a huge variety of vegetation, according to different regions and climates of the world.
Shitenno-ji Buddhist Temple
One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku. Dedicated to the Four Guardians, the temple features magnificent buildings and beautiful gardens, and is a focal point for religious and cultural celebrations.
Natural History Museum
An enriching experience (very suitable for children!) that provides a glimpse into the nature and geological history of the area. The museum is located in Nagai Park and contains displays of animal specimens, skeletons, minerals and plants, from Japan and around the world.
Ngai Botanical Park
The Nagai Botanical Garden is actually an impressive, green and peaceful park in the heart of the city. The garden includes over a thousand different species of plants! Visitors can enjoy pleasant walking trails among blooming cherry trees (in season), an enchanting forest and rare tree species, including a system of lakes and relaxing seating areas.
Minoh National Park
A pastoral area full of nature, in the northern part of the city. A two-kilometer route will take you to particularly beautiful waterfalls, and the road is no less beautiful. To get there, first arrive at Minoh station, from where there are signs for the route that leads to the waterfalls.
Universal Studios
One of the best value amusement parks out there! Based on popular films and series from Universal Studios. There's an entire Harry Potter complex! It's recommended to buy tickets in advance, and arrive midweek when it's a little less crowded (usually Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
3 attractions in Osaka with an organized tour
If you are looking for attractions in Osaka that delve deeper into the history and culture of the city, here are some that are especially recommended!
Why do I recommend VIATOR?
A special culinary journey around the city at the best restaurants!
✅ Rating of 5 ⭐ on VIATOR out of 1216 raters!
✅ Visit five local restaurants
✅ Includes all meals and two drinks
✅ Starting from $86
Reserve your spot on the trip now! ￬
An evening tour where you will see the magic that is usually not revealed to tourists, the history and culture of the city, and you will also taste local delicacies.
✅ Rating of 5 ⭐ on VIATOR out of 1120 raters!
✅ You get to special places that most tourists don't get to
✅ Small group up to 15 travelers
✅ Starting from $53
Reserve your spot on the trip now! ￬
An authentic local experience of one of the most important ceremonies in Japan's history.
✅ Rating of 5 ⭐ on VIATOR out of 586 raters!
✅ Learn to make matcha
✅ The experience takes place in a small group
✅ Starting from $26
Reserve your spot on the trip now! ￬
Osaka Accommodation Recommendations
The most recommended areas to stay in the city are Namba or Umeda. Here are some recommendations for some comfortable and good hotels:
⭐ Rating of 7.6 on Booking.com
✅ Dormitory rooms – suitable for backpackers
✅ Excellent location in the Namba area
✅ Starting from $45 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 8.3 on Booking.com
✅ Excellent location in the Umeda area
✅ Private rooms
✅ Starting from $125 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 8.8 on Booking.com
✅ Luxurious 4-star hotel
✅ Central location in the Umeda area
✅ Starting from $216 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 8.8 on Booking.com
✅ Luxurious 4-star hotel
✅ Excellent location in the Namba area
✅ Starting from $124 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
Osaka restaurant recommendations
For anyone visiting the area, local food is an integral part of the experience, and the city offers a wide variety of delicious options, from local restaurants to Western chains. Here are some particularly worthwhile recommendations:
Teppanyaki Minami
A luxurious and high-class Japanese restaurant in the Namba area.
OKO - Fun Okonomiyaki Bar
Okonomiyaki is a Japanese omelette rich in flavor and ingredients. The restaurant is in the Namba area, at low prices.
Torisho Ishii
In the Kita area. Excellent yakitori (Japanese chicken skewer) restaurant!
Sushi Minazuki
Obviously, sushi is the food you came to Japan for! Minazuki is an excellent sushi restaurant in the Kita area.
Other interesting destinations in Japan
After you've finished with all the attractions in Osaka, and if you want to reach other interesting destinations in Japan, here are some recommendations and additional information:
- Okinawa – a stunning and very special island in southern Japan with a subtropical climate. Characterized by the most beautiful beaches in the world, special food and fascinating local culture.
- Kyushu – an area full of nature, hot springs, authentic Japanese culture and amazing cuisine.
- Kyoto – a historic city full of temples and nature, one of the favorite destinations for tourists.
- Nara – very close to Kyoto and Osaka, a calm and pleasant destination, full of reindeers Roam freely, sushi unique to this area and nature to walk through.
- Nagoya – a special and surprising city, with authentic and affordable Japanese food and special attractions such as the Toyota Museum and Ghibli Park.
- Tokyo – the capital city is a must-see for all travelers to Japan, although it is unlike any other destination in the country. It really has its own pace, and it’s fast!
Questions and Answers
What to do in Osaka that you shouldn't miss? 🏯
First of all, Osaka Castle! The Peace Museum and Nagai Botanical Park are also must-see attractions.What foods are a must-try in Osaka? 🍜
- Takoyaki: octopus balls.
- Okonomiyaki: A savory Japanese pancake made with egg and cabbage.
- Fresh sushi: at local restaurants or a sushi conveyor belt.
