osaka travel magazine

Inside Osaka

Your Osaka Travel Guide

Make the most of your trip to Osaka with our comprehensive Osaka itineraries , our recommendations of the best places to eat in Osaka and rundowns of essential attractions in each of Osaka's fascinating districts

Osaka Itineraries

Osaka Restaurants

Osaka Hotels

Osaka Ryokan

First Time In Osaka

Osaka Districts

Things To Do In Osaka

Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo Itineraries

Best Time To Go To Osaka

SIM Cards in Osaka

How To Get To Osaka

Getting Around Osaka

Eat Like A Local In Osaka

Where To Stay In Osaka

Japan Travel Guides

There are several must-see destinations in Japan within easy reach of Osaka. They all make great additions to any Osaka itinerary. These concise guides provide details about what to see and do.

Kyoto Travel Guide

Tokyo Travel Guide

Nara Travel Guide

Kanazawa Travel Guide

Hiroshima And Miyajima

Takayama Travel Guide

Where Are These Places Located?

• Open the Osaka map
• You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
• Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
• Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
• If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Osaka Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Osaka guide
• Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Osaka
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka , Osaka to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Osaka's Kansai International Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare flight prices and timings to find the best Japan flight deals
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Osaka District Map

• Shin-Osaka Area
• Central Osaka Area
• Minami Area
• Tennoji Area
• Osaka Castle Area
• Osaka Bay Area

Expedia Magazine

The Trends in Travel

A cultural guide to Osaka

Japan’s less crowded and less conservative major metropolis challenges the cultural and culinary clout of Tokyo and Kyoto

About Osaka

Language: Japanese Time zone: UTC+9 (JST) Currency: Japanese yen (JPY)

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While Tokyo is a sprawling, modern megacity and Kyoto is the country’s retail capital, Osaka is Japan’s industrial heart, once home to the merchant class. Less-touristy than its sister cities, Osaka is a treat for food-obsessed city breakers and late-night revelers, a friendly patchwork of neighborhoods both ancient and modern. Set on Osaka Bay, the historic port city is also within easy reach of the famous deer park in Nara and just a 15-minute Bullet Train trip away from the UNESCO-stamped shrines and cultural sights of Kyoto. The white-sand beaches of Shirahama, the tea plantations surrounding scenic Wazuka, and sections of the Kumano Kodō pilgrimage trail, lined with onsen spa villages, are also nearby.

Art & architecture

With eclectic modern architecture rubbing up against 16th-century castles and shrines, Osaka is a joy to discover on foot. Towards the end of World War II, hundreds of U.S. bombers carried out multiple raids on Osaka, which destroyed swaths of the city, but an ambitious post-war reconstruction plan successfully rebuilt factories and neighborhoods, and revived trade. Much of the local architecture dates from these economic boom years. Built in 1993, the 568-foot-high Umeda Sky Building consists of two towers connected by the Floating Garden Observatory. Osaka National Museum of Art , constructed to honor the bamboo plant, is another must-visit. Some of the best skyline views are from Osaka Castle , a hilltop fortress first built in 1583, and history lovers will also want to visit the serene Shinto Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and Shitennō-ji , one of Japan’s first Buddhist temples. 

Food & drink

Because Osaka has not traditionally relied on tourism, the city’s culinary scene has grown in response to the demanding tastebuds of regular local diners, resulting in a competitively innovative dining scene. Throughout Japan, Osaka has a well-earned reputation for “kuidaore,” or “eating until you drop.”  By night, join the locals on a food safari among the wall-to-wall restaurants and bars of neon-lit Dotonburi, sampling small dishes at a series of restaurants. One local street food treat not to be missed is takoyaki , or deep-fried octopus balls; find it at casual Takoyaki Juhachiban. Another must-eat is okonomiyaki , arguably Osaka’s signature dish, a savory pancake that pairs perfectly with a local craft beer. Chibo is a favorite spot, but if you find yourself hungry in the lively central shopping district of Umeda, Okonomiyaki Kiji is a great bet. 

For Osaka-style fine dining minus formality and fuss, try one of the city’s kappo restaurants, where food is cut up finely and cooked with fire. Diners face the chef across the counter and interaction is encouraged; with most spots maxing out at 12 diners, this makes for an unforgettable, intimate experience. Naniwa Kappo Kigawa is one of the best loved in Dotonbori. Good food tours abound, but a Retro Osaka Street Food Tour of iconic eateries in Shinsekai District is a great way to prepare your tastebuds for the days ahead.  

A cultural guide to Tokyo

Japanese urbanites are big lovers of music, with listening bars where you can sip a craft sake cocktail while listening to carefully chosen vinyl, gritty karaoke joints in what appears to be the top floor of an apartment building, and sleek and sexy jazz bars. In Kita, Funk Bar Zip has been a stalwart for soul and funk fans for three decades, while Milk Bar is one of the coziest spots in the city, seating just a handful of music lovers at a time.   One of the city’s best-loved live music venues is Fandango , located in a rundown historic district in north Osaka, while Socore Factory in Kita-Horie is a touch more refined, with hardwood floors, thoughtful lighting and classier drinks, plus a winning roster of international and underground Japanese acts.  

Anna Hart is a culture writer specializing in adventure travel and positive-impact tourism. Her work has appeared in  Vogue ,  The Wall Street Journal , and  The New York Times , and she is the author of the travel memoir  Departures . 

Key neighborhoods

Osaka is primarily divided into downtown and uptown, Kita (or Umeda) being north, Minami to the south. Kita is the daytime soul of the city, and staying at the Osaka Ritz Carlton puts you within easy reach of the district’s museums and the legendary shopping street of Midosuji, often called Osaka’s answer to the Champs-Élysée.  

What’s Nearby

The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka

2-5-25 Umeda, Kita, Osaka, Osaka, 530-0001

Hotel Hankyu International

19-19 Chayamachi, Kita-ku, Osaka, Osaka-fu, 530-0013

If you feel like making lively Dotonbori in Minami your base, the Hotel Forza is a superb choice, around the corner from Kuromon Ichiba Market , the most famous street food market in the city.  

Hotel Balian Resort Namba Dotonbori

2-5-15 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 542-0071

Hotel Forza Osaka Namba Dotonbori

1-4-22 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka, 542-0071

For more of a youthful vibe, stay in Horie district, enveloped by the Dotonbori, Horie, and Kizu rivers. This is where you’ll find hip interior design stores, independent boutiques and Instagrammable kitsune udon vendors. The Bridge Hotel Shinsaibashi  is a short walk from the heart of Horie, where you’ll find America Mura (American Village), a streetwear boutique hub that also houses some of the city’s coolest bars and clubs in a multi-tenant building called Mittera Kaikan .  

The Bridge Hotel Shinsaibashi

1-10-24 Nishi-Shinsaibashi Chuo-ku, Namba, Osaka, 542-0086

Mimaru Osaka Shinsaibashi West

1-chome 24 – 1 Shinmachi, Osaka, Osaka, 550-0013

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About Osaka

The center of western Japan and the home of Japanese comedy, Osaka Prefecture (大阪府, Ōsaka-fu ) is lively at all times, as the business district in Umeda, the shopping area of Shinsaibashi, and the neon-lit nightlife district of Dotonbori reflect the upbeat and friendly nature of the local people.

But if you’re tired of the urbanity, Osaka Castle and the Expo Commemoration Park (which contains the National Museum of Ethnology and the iconic Tower of the Sun) ensure that you won’t run out of things to do. And that’s without even mentioning Universal Studios Japan .

Walking around the streets of Osaka can be a gastronomical experience, with many food stalls selling takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and other delicious fast foods and snacks. And if you have the luxury to splurge, have dinner at Kitcho, one of the most high class Japanese restaurants. 

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What to expect from Osaka

Osaka has a reputation for being at odds with the rest of Japan. In fact, the city prides itself on standing out: the local sense of humour is loud and brash, people jaywalk (frowned upon elsewhere) and the salarymen (businessmen) work hard and play harder. Long-established as one of Japan’s commercial centres (and occasional capital), Osaka was rebuilt after bombing in the Second World War. In April, 11.5-hour direct flights with British Airways launch from Heathrow, making it even easier to explore the city’s electric buzz.

Along the Dotonbori (the city’s main strip) the neon lights shine brighter than Times Square, and garish octopus figurines leer above you ( takoyaki , or battered octopus balls, are an Osakan hallmark). You’ll probably find yourself beside suited salarymen in any bar you visit, invariably thrusting you a karaoke mic as the early hours arrive.

Then there’s the food: Osaka is the culinary capital of Japan, where the locals live by the word kuidaore : to eat until you drop. After you’ve tried the delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat or veg), you likely will too.

At Osaka’s two airports

Osaka is served by two airports: Kansai (international) and Itami (domestic). You’ll probably end up at Kansai, which, like the rest of Japan, is incredibly efficient.

As you step into Arrivals, you’ll find vending machines that sell prepaid SIM cards (data only; no calls), as well as convenience stores with all kinds of treats – try an onigiri (a triangle of soft rice with a savoury filling) to tide you over until you hit the city.

How to get into Osaka

Kansai airport is about 60km from the centre, on a small island. The easiest way to town is to head to Shin-Osaka Station on the Haruku JR Kansai-Airport Express, which takes 50 minutes and costs ¥2,330 (£16). If you also purchase an ICOCA card (recommended – it’s similar to London’s Oyster transport card), you can get the ticket for just ¥1,300 (£9).

What do the locals recommend?

Ryosuke hosoi, cityunscripted guide.

What to do on your first day in Osaka

Kuromon Ichiba Market is the place to go if you’re a food lover (Shutterstock)

A day in Osaka should begin as you mean to go on: eating. Kuromon Ichiba Market is a good place to start. This colourful covered market, nicknamed ‘Osaka’s kitchen’, has over 150 stalls selling everything from the rarest red tuna to scallops grilled on an open flame. Try an Osaka favourite: okonomiyaki, fluffy savoury pancakes packed with cabbage and seafood.

Next, head to nearby Hozenji Temple. This tiny complex in the heart of bustling Dotonbori feels like a more traditional vision of Japan; splash water over the moss-covered Fudo Myo-o statue, which survived the Second World War bombings that flattened much of the city, and make a wish.

Now, time for another snack. Head into the cobbled alley of Hozenji Yokocho and catch the subway from Namba Station to Shin-Imamiya. This is part of the Shinsekai (‘new world’) neighbourhood, a mesh of bars and restaurants, with a looming replica of the Eiffel Tower. This is where you’ll find the city’s best kushikatsu – deep-fried skewers of meat and veg that you plunge into a communal dipping sauce (no double dipping!).

In the afternoon, catch the subway to explore Osaka Castle (9am–5pm; ¥600/£4.50), then head to Umeda Sky Building (9:30am–10:30pm; ¥1,500/£11), where the 39th-floor open-air deck helps give this chaotic city some perspective.

As evening sets in, hop back down to Namba, where the neon Dotonbori strip will be coming alive. Slip between the narrow alleyways and find a bar that looks busy, then walk in with a hearty ‘ konbanwa !’ (good evening).

Where to stay in Osaka

A great budget option for accommodation in Osaka is Hotel J-Ship (Hotel J-Ship/ Hiroaki Sasaki)

Top end: Osaka is dotted with five-star stays, but try Cross Hotel. This boutique is immaculate, quiet and just a five-minute walk from the lively Dotonbori. Doubles from ¥14,000 (£115).

Mid-range: Yamatoya Honten has all the charm of a traditional ryokan (inn) but with the convenience of a city centre hotel. Rooms have tatami mats and futons, plus there are piping hot communal onsen baths. You can opt for room-only, but breakfast is highly recommended. Doubles from ¥3,500 (£25).

Budget: Near to Namba Station, Hotel J-Ship , is one of Japan’s famed ‘capsule hotels’. The entire pod is your bed, so there’s no room to stand, but they’re worth trying for a quintessential Japanese experience. Pods from ¥1,890 (£14).

How many days should you spend in Osaka?

Beautiful Osaka Castle infront of the city’s skyscrapers (Dreamstime)

Stick around – at least for a few days. There’s too much to do (and eat) in Osaka for just 24 hours. You could spend a day at Spa World , a hotspring theme park. There’s also Round One Stadium, a huge entertainment complex with batting cages, karaoke and bizarre arcade games – a great place to immerse yourself in local life. And of course, there’s the food: you could easily spend a week exploring this culinary capital, each dish encouraging you to try another until you really do eat until you drop.

If you can still move, Osaka’s neighbours are also worth your attention. Most people head straight to Kyoto, but don’t overlook the old city of Nara, home to friendly roaming deer and one of the world’s largest Buddha statues. There’s also the island of Shikoku, a wild, beautiful place with unparalleled hiking and a pilgrimage trail that spans 88 temples, which is easily reached by train from central Osaka.

Need to know

A replica of the Eiffel Tower looms over Shinsekai (Olivia Lee)

Population: 8.84 million

Languages: Japanese (Osakans have a strong Kansai dialect known as Osaka-ben); English (at most information and help desks).

Time zone: GMT+9

Int’l dialling code: +81

Visas: British nationals can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa.

Currency: Japanese yen (¥), currently around ¥142 to the UK£.

ATMs: Japan is a cash society, so withdrawing enough money is essential. The easiest way to find a cashpoint is to head to the nearest convenience store, which will have an ATM tucked into an inside corner. Instructions can be switched to English, and cash is available 24/7. Post office ATMs also accept foreign cards.

Credit cards: Despite having an economy driven by technology, using cards in Japan is surprisingly difficult. Most big hotels and shops will accept them but take cash if you want to eat and drink like a local.

Guidebooks: Lonely Planet’s Japan has a good chapter on Osaka. Also check out Rice, Noodle, Fish (Hardie Grant Books) by Matt Goulding for an evocative picture of Osaka’s food scene.

Useful websites: Osaka Info has a number of excellent downloadable PDFs that cover everything to do in the city.

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation

Top Things to Do

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Osaka

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Osaka: The Complete Guide

Getty /Ekkachai Pholrojpanya

As Japan’s third-largest city  , as well as its comedy and food center, there’s a lot to love about the city of Osaka. It has a markedly laidback atmosphere when compared to Tokyo, while still having everything you might expect of a big and bustling city. It’s also within easy traveling distance of Kyoto and Nara, making it a fantastic hub for exploring the country further. Find out everything you need to know before planning your trip to Osaka.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Summers are humid, hot and can be rainy during June and July, so anytime during spring or fall is ideal. Osaka comes to life with cherry blossoms during spring and yellow ginkgo trees in the fall, and the weather is temperate.
• Language: Japanese. Osaka locals famously have their own strong dialect, which is known as Osaka-ben.
• Getting Around: The subway or train is the best way to get around Osaka. You can pick up the ICOCA travel card or use the Suica or Pasmo travel card from Tokyo to make tapping in and out easier. Much of what you’ll want to see is on the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south through the city. Taxis are also an option, and you’ll find them outside most stations, or you can flag them down, but they can be expensive.

Getty /fotoVoyager

Things to Do

Osaka is a city that really unravels, given enough time. With quirky neighborhoods and an abundance of food and cafe options, it’s a perfect blend of old city charm and modern skyscapes. Here are a selection of things you must do when visiting Osaka:

• Visit Osaka Castle. Osaka Castle is one of the highlights to any visit to the city. The five-story castle features a museum displaying historical artifacts, armor, and weapons and also a fantastic view of the gardens and city from the top.
• Spend a day at Universal Studios. The first Universal Studios to open in Asia and the only one to feature The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This is a perfect Osaka day trip within the city and fun for all ages.
• Catch a view from the Umeda Sky Building. Two buildings linked at the tip with a giant observatory is the perfect spot for getting gorgeous photos of Osaka from above. The observatory is on the 39th floor and once you’re done at the top you can head to the basement where you’ll find an underground labyrinth of shops and restaurants. 
• Visit one of Osaka’s quirky museums. Osaka has plenty of fun and interesting museums which you won’t want to miss out on. One of the highlights is the Cup Noodles Museum where you can learn all about the international phenomenon of convenience ramen and make your own cup noodle! If you love art then make sure to visit the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum where you can see rare wood prints and try out woodblock printing for yourself.
• Visit Osaka’s shrines and temples. Like most places in Japan, there’s no shortage of historical spots to explore. In Osaka you’ll find stunning spots like Hozen-ji temple and Shitenno-ji temple which is Japan’s oldest temple.
• Shop in Shinsaibashi. Osaka’s covered arcades are like taking a step into the past. Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade is the best place to indulge in all things shopping with 600-meter long covered area to stroll down featuring everything from stationery to kitchenware.

Plan more of your itinerary with our guides on the best things to do in the city and how to spend 48 hours in Osaka.

Getty/ Calvin Chan Wai Meng

What to Eat and Drink

Osaka is repeatedly named as one of the top food cities in the world, and you’ll notice the sheer amount of street food and restaurant options almost immediately. Osaka is proud of its food culture and with good reason. This is the city that has specializes in three of the most comforting Japanese dishes—okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and takoyaki—all fried and all delicious. 

Dotonburi and Shinsekai are two of the major food districts in the city. Still, you’ll also find gems such as Kuromon Market, which dates back to the Edo Period and Miyuki-Dori Shopping Street, a 300-meter shopping street where you can choose from over 150 Korean restaurants. Aside from the local specialties, Osaka is also a perfect place to tuck into other Japanese favorites such as sushi, ramen, katsu curry, and yakiniku.

Getty /simonlong

Where to Stay

Osaka is a wonderfully exciting city with 24 wards to explore and hotels available all over the city. Here are some of the most popular areas to stay to enjoy your trip to the full.

Minami (Namba): One of the most popular neighborhoods in the city, Namba is the entertainment hub of Osaka and where you'll find the famous Dotonburi canal and running man neon sign. It's one of the most exciting restaurants and street food areas and ideal if you want to experience Osaka's nightlife, whether that's terrific bars or bunraku and kabuki cultural performances at the theater.

Nipponbashi: This is a perfect place to stay if you're hoping to explore the nerd and electronics haven that is Denden Town, Osaka's version of Tokyo's Akihabara. Once a year, there's a big cosplay festival, and there are often small events happening in some of the local businesses. You'll also be close to Kuromon Market and Namba, so it's an easy way to be close to the action but have room to explore some of the smaller neighborhoods.

Osaka Bay Area: This is an ideal area to stay if you’re hoping to be close to some of the family-friendly attractions of Osaka like the giant Ferris wheel and the world’s largest aquarium  ! There is also shopping, restaurants, and a ferry that will take you to Universal Studios. The gorgeous views of the harbor alone make it worth staying here.

Shinsekai: This is a traditional area that’s ideal for foodies and people looking to experience traditional aesthetics and neon side streets. Shinsekai is where you’ll find the iconic Osaka Tower and local hole-in-the-wall restaurants that specialize in kushikatsu, sushi, and yakiniku barbecue joints. You can also pay a visit to Spa World, perfect for relaxing in after hard day sightseeing and the Osaka Museum of Fine Arts

Shinsabashi: This dynamic area near Namba puts fantastic tax-free shopping opportunities on your doorstep. You have the Shisabashi shopping arcade and plenty of boutique shopping options as well as nearby America-mura (also known as Amemura), where you’ll find trendy and vintage shopping plus eclectic cafes and bars.

Getting There

To access Osaka by plane , you’ll arrive at either Osaka International Airport or Kansai Airport, which serves both domestic and international flights. From Osaka Airport, you can reach downtown in around half an hour, and you’ll find several options such as taxis (around $50), a bus ($60 and a combination of train and subway ($6). You can also hire a car from the airport to drive downtown, which will take you around 25 minutes.

If you’re traveling from Kansai Airport, the easiest way to get downtown is via train ($11), which takes around 70 minutes. You can also catch a taxi which will take 45 minutes, but it is a more expensive option at $165. Finally, if you are arriving on the shinkansen from Tokyo or another Japanese city, then you’ll arrive at Osaka Station, which is a prime location to simply hop on the subway to your next destination or get a taxi to your hotel.

Culture and Customs

• There's no need to tip in Osaka. In some cases, it can even be considered offensive.
• If you're shopping, whether at a convenience store, department store, or boutique, make sure to place your money in the dish on the counter. Your change will also be placed there. On that note, remember to carry cash as some places don't take cards. You'll find plenty of ATMs around the city if you're stuck.
• The bow is the standard form of greeting in Japan, but a head nod will usually suffice. Politeness goes a long way!
• When on the subway, make sure not to use the seats reserved for the elderly, even if there are no elderly on the train car who might want to sit down. Even when the car is packed, and those seats are empty, don't ever sit in them.

Money-Saving Tips

• If you’re using a JR pass then you will also be able to use this on the JR subway and train lines within Osaka. If you can avoid buying another pass and just use the JR lines you can save money.
• Get the ICOCA & Haruka card at Kansai airport for discounted travel into the city center on the train. You’ll also be able to use the ICOCA as a travel card going forward.
• Make sure to try some convenience store food and coffee to save money. Stores like 7/11, Lawson, and Family Mart have excellent quality bento boxes and hot snacks—perfect for picking up breakfast, a quick meal or gathering a picnic.
• Take advantage of tax refunds while you’re shopping. Purchases more than 5,000 yen (around $46) are exempt from the 10 percent consumption tax  . Wherever you see the tax refund sign just show your passport and that store and they’ll seal your items and give you a receipt to show at the airport before you leave.
• Look out for Osaka’s free attractions like walking in Minoo Park, exploring the grounds of Osaka Castle, and visiting the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku, the third-largest tomb in the world.

Statista. " Population of Osaka Prefecture in Japan from 1920 to 2018 ." November 2019.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan .

Japan Tax-Free Shop. " Japan's Tax Exemption ."

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Osaka travel blog — the fullest osaka travel guide for first-timers.

Talking about the self-sufficiency traveling to Japan, the Living Nomads association of playing is very enthusiastic suggesting and contributing “hundred votes” for Osaka. “The water city, the kitchen of Japan, the gateway to the country, the fog city …” are the names when referring to Osaka – the third largest city of Japan with 2.7 million people, the trading center, industry, the main port and the “heart” of the Osaka – Kobe – Kyoto urban triangle. Located on the island of Honshu, Osaka bears the charming beauty between tradition and modern. The city is full of vitality with many interesting sights, and most importantly, the food here is very rich, delicious and diverse, the home to Okonomiyaki, one of the most famous dishes in Japan. This land converge full of the essence of traditional culture and modern civilization features, so no need to ask, Living Nomads will also answer, Osaka is truly one of the ideal destinations of Japan.

• Osaka trip blog — The super Osaka travel guide for a budget trip to Osaka for the first-timers
• What to buy in Osaka? — Top 21+ gifts, souvenirs & best things to buy in Osaka
• Top places to go in Osaka — 20+ top, must-see places & best places to visit in Osaka
• Osaka Kyoto itinerary blog — How to spend 2 days in Osaka and Kyoto perfectly?
• Dotonbori guide — What to do in Dotonbori & suggested Shinsaibashi Dotonbori itinerary 1 day for the first-timers

So, is Osaka worth visiting, what to do in Osaka and how to plan a budget trip to Osaka perfectly? Let’s check out our Osaka travel blog (Osaka blog) with the fullest Osaka travel guide (guide to Osaka, Osaka tourist guide, Osaka city guide, Osaka guide, Osaka tourist guide, Osaka guide) from how to get Osaka, best places to do, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Osaka to help you maximize your trip as follows! Now, let’s explore this vibrant, beautiful city through our Osaka blog (Osaka travel blog) — The fullest Osaka city guide and Osaka travel guide blog for a wonderful trip to Osaka for visitors who first-time traveling to Osaka below.

Osaka blog: When is the best time to visit Osaka?

Osaka has a humid subtropical climate, very hot in summer and cold in winter, with ice and snow. You can travel to Osaka at any time of the year.

Spring: In the late March and early April is the best time to visit Osaka. This period is the cherry blossoms season, extremely beautiful, when coming here in the spring you will be able to see the scenery and enjoy all the beauty of Osaka. Perhaps thanks to this beautiful spring scene that has attracted a great number of tourists at this time.

Summer: The summer lasts from June to September, with a temperature of up to 36 degrees Celsius. Summer is particularly hot. In the summer, you should drink plenty of water, wear a hat and prepare sunscreen to avoid heat or ultraviolet radiation.

Autumn: It lasts from October to December, the weather is always cool all day and a little cold at night, sometimes it is snowing, so this also is a good time to explore Osaka, especially for those who love yellow leaves, red leaves of autumn Japan.

Winter: January, February is the coldest time of the year in Osaka, which is perfect for those who love the cold and want to see the snow in Japan.

Osaka travel blog: How to get to Osaka?

Currently, from Vietnam there are three airlines operating flights to Osaka: Vietnam Airlines, Japan Airlines, ANA – All Nippon Airways. Afterwards, you fly domestic flights to Osaka or take the express train such as Shinkansen, normal train or bus.

Hanoi – Osaka: The fare for this flight route ranging from US$230 to US$425. For a cheap Osaka trip, you should choose to buy budget airfares from some airlines such as:

• China Southern Airlines – reference airfare of $225.
• Silkair – reference airfare is about $270.91.
• Singapore Airlines – reference airfare is about $270.91.
• Dragonair – reference airfare is about $391.
• Cathay Pacific Airways – reference airfare is about $391.
• Asiana Airlines – reference airfare is about $420.

Ho Chi Minh City – Osaka: Airfare tickets in Ho Chi Minh City are a bit cheaper, ranging from $164.39 to $373.86.

• Philippine Airlines – reference ticket price is about $164.39.
• China Southern Airlines – reference ticket price is about $210.06.
• Singapore Airlines – reference price is about $270.91.
• EVA Airways – reference ticket price is about $320.58.
• China Eastern Airlines – reference ticket price is about $343.16.
• Cathay Pacific Airways – reference ticket price is about $373.86.

Osaka travel blog: Getting to Osaka from Tokyo Station

The most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Osaka is Shinkansen. From JR Tokyo Station to JR Shin-Osaka Station about 2 hours 30 minutes, the ticket price is about 15,000 yen. Shinkansen also shake less, the seat is quite nice so you can move quite comfortable. Travel time is also shorter than other means.

If you use Shinkansen, you should use Japan Rail Pass. For more details, please refer to the article “ JR Pass — Top 11 things about Japan Rail Pass you need to know “.

Getting to Osaka from Haneda

From Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Kuko Line Express Line to Shinagawa, from Shinagawa take the Shinkansen, towards Shin-Osaka station. The ticket price is 14,030 yen. Travel time is about 3 hours.

Getting to Osaka from Narita

From Narita Airport, firstly, you will catch the Narita Express towards Shinagawa. From Shinagawa you will use Shinkansen to reach Shin-Osaka. The ticket price is 16,180 yen. Travel time is about 4 hours.

High speed bus from Tokyo

If you want to save money or do not want to waste time for traveling, you should use high speed buses. If you use the Japan Bus Pass for Japanese tourists, you can travel through many cities at very cheap prices.

Getting Osaka from Kansai International Airport

From the Kansai International Airport you can take the JR Kanku Kaisoku Line. This is a non-stop train that without changes the train, which takes about 65 minutes to reach Osaka Station. The ticket price is 1,190 yen.

To getting from the airport to Osaka center you can also hire Klook’s private car charter service, which is convenient and saving a alot of time, and the travel cost is not too expensive if you go with a large group. You can refer to and book these services as follow:

• Private Kansai International Airport Transfers (KIX) for Osaka, Nara, & Kobe
• Limousine Bus Transfers between Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka or Kyoto
• Private Kansai International Airport (KIX) Transfers for Osaka (Same Day Booking)
• Private Kansai Airport (KIX) Transfers to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Uji, Kobe, or Arima

Osaka blog: Getting around Osaka

Osaka has full public transportation, so you can easily travel to sightseeing places by train, subway, bus, etc. At the main stations there are many train lines running through. So, you should check in advance on how to get to your destinations.

JR runs through Osaka in the direction of East-West-South-North. In particular, Osaka Station is considered to be the largest station in Western Japan, an important location connected to Kyoto, Kobe and Tokyo. In addition, the Osaka Kanjo Line also runs around the city of Osaka is also an indispensable route when traveling Osaka.

Bus & OSAKA SKY VISTA

Buses run in the inner city of Osaka like the mesh. OSAKA SKY VISTA of Kinki Bus Company is a double-decker bus. Adult ticket 1,500 yen, children 1,000 yen. Buses will take you around sightseeing spots such as Osaka Castle, Osaka Sky Building and accompanying guides.

You can see the sightseeing spots from the bus, although not able to stroll in that places but you should try to use if you want to visit effectively.

Osaka has 8 subway lines: Midosuji, Tanimachi, Yotsubashi, Chuo, Sennichimae, Sakaisuji, Nagahori Tsurumiryokuchi, Imazatosuji. Among them, the most popular route when visiting Osaka is Midosuji (Red Line). At the stations on the Midosuji Line there are Osaka’s important landmarks such as Namba, Shinsaibashi, Umeda, …

Nanko Port Town Line (New Tram)

Nanko Port Town is a route that connects between Cosmo Square and Suminoekōen Station.

Taxi / Rental car

In Osaka city there are many taxi companies and cars for rent. There are plenty of parking lots, so if you want to travel on your own way, you can rent a car.

Osaka Amazing Pass (for Osaka area)

This is a free up and down pass for the routes: Osaka Subway Line, Osaka Bus Routes, Hankyu, Hanshin, Keihan, Nankai, and Kintetsu lines in the Osaka area. This pass also cost-free admission to city attractions such as Tsutenkaku, the giant ferris wheel of Tempozan, Tennoji Zoo, … The ticket price for both adults and children are 2,300 yen.

Osaka One Day Pass (Suito Osaka Full Experience Ticket)

This is a pass that includes “Bar Ticket” which can be used at 63 spots in 8 inner city areas such as eateries, sightseeing places, “Osaka’s One Day Free Pass” can be free up and down the subway lines, bus routes, New Tram, and “One-Day Cruise Ticket on the Cruise” can comfortably down to three types of boats in Osaka. The ticket price is 3,300 yen (tax included).

One-day ticket Enjoy Eco Card

Enjoy Eco Card is a type of ticket can free up and down of Osaka metro lines, New Tram (Nanko Port Town), all bus routes. The ticket price for children is 300 yen, adult 800 yen on weekdays, weekends cost 600 yen.

Osaka travel blog: Where to stay in Osaka?

As one of the cities that attracting a large number of tourists in Japan, so the tourism services here are very developed. Osaka has all accommodation types to stay for you, from budget inns, guesthouses, mid to high-end hotels to the most luxurious resorts. Below, we list a number of low-cost, mid-range and luxury hotels in Osaka. You can choose the best suit for your purpose and financial ability.

Budget hotels, hostels in Osaka

Smile hotel namba.

The advantage of the Smile Hotel Namba is its good location to reach Osaka’s popular attractions, just about 20 minutes from Universal Studios and the airport. Although it is a budget hotel, it also offers free breakfast. Rates room from 2500 yen. The service attitude of staffs is extremely hospitable. Moreover, laundry services are available. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 3-3-9 Saiwai-cho, Naniwaku, Osaka, Osaka, Japan, 556-0021 Phone: +81 6-6561-1155

Hotel Live Max Namba

For the shoppers, Live Max is not only a cheap hotel in Osaka, it’s also located in Osaka’s business district, which is very convenient for shopping. The hotel is designed to bring you the feeling of relaxation as living in your own home. The hotel’s interior is designed in harmonious colors to bring comfort, relaxation. Live Max is close to Namba Station and Kyocera Dome so it is an ideal budget hotel for you to visit the city’s famous landmarks. Hotel rates room from 3000 yen are a perfect choice for you. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 2 Chome-1-３ Inari, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 556-0023, Japan Phone: +81 6-6567-6111

Hotel Taiyo

This is also one of the cheap hotels in Osaka, impressed with the outside walls are paved with red brick and the interior design is very splendid, magnificent. There are many foreign visitors choose stay at Taiyo Hotel . You can stay in a large Japanese-style room for less than 3000 yen. In addition, there is also the storey only for women. A single room at the hotel costs from 2100 yen. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 1 Chome-2-23 Taishi, Nishinari Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 557-0002, Japan Phone: +81 6-6631-0802

Hotel Mikado

A cheap hotel in Osaka is quite popular with the backpackers, self-sufficient travelers by cheap room rates, clean room, nice interior design, as well as space here. There are dormitory rooms and private bedrooms with bathtubs and steam rooms. The hotel is famous for the Japanese visitors not only by the cheap but also by the enthusiastic service, professional staff. Room rates are around 1900 yen per person. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 1 Chome-2-11 Taishi, Nishinari Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 557-0002, Japan Phone: +81 6-6647-1355

You can also refer to some cheap hotels in Osaka below:

Sauna & Capsule Spadio Hotel: 2-1-1, Sakuragawa, Naniwa-ku, Namba, Osaka – room rates from $37.90. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Mimatsuso: Takamatsukita 1-4-30, Kansai Airport, Osaka from $ 49.14. (Check rates and reviews on Booking.com ).

Raizan South Hotel: 1-3-3 Taishi Nishinari-ku, Tennoji, Osaka from $50.76. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Carnet: 5-15-22 Higashinaniwa-cho, Amagasaki-shi, Amagasaki, Osaka from $54.15. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Osaka Tsuruhashi Condominium Residenzi: 544-0031 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Ikuno-ku Tsuruhashi 2-10-18, Japan. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Eco Cube Shinsaibashi: 2-9-4 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-Ku, Namba, Osaka, room rates from $18.37. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Shin Imamiya: 1-2-20 Haignochaya, Nishinari-ku, Nishinari Ward, Osaka, from $19.79. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Home Hostel Osaka : 2-1-11 Ebisu-higashi, Naniwa-ku, Namba, Osaka, Japan, 556-0002, from $25/person/dorm room night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Capsule Hotel Astil Dotonbori : 2-2-20 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Shinsaibashi, Osaka, Japan, 542-007. The cheap capsule hostel, suitable for traveling to Japan alone). (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Jsnail Hostel : 大阪市東成区大今里西2-16-18 Jsnail Hostel, Osaka city East, Osaka, Japan, 537-0014. Nice, cheap, right next to the subway station, so convenient, next to is the supermarket. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Mid-range, luxury hotels, splendid interior, good service and beautiful view

Swissôtel nankai osaka.

A luxury hotel in the heart of shopping and entertainment, right at above Namba Station, this is a hotel with perfect location. The lounge has a coffee shop and drinks spots, light meals, and afternoon tea. The tenth floor are Chinese, Japanese, and French restaurants and the 36th floor is an excellent Italian restaurant for Italian cuisine, before or after dinner drinks, and the magical city scenery of Osaka. Room rates from $182. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 5 Chome-1-60 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0076, Japan Phone: +81 6-6646-1111

Nest Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi

Designed for both business and leisure travel, Nest Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi is ideally situated in Chuo District; one of the city’s most popular locales. Room rates from $72. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 2 Chome-4-１０ Minamisenba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0081, Japan Phone: +81 6-6263-1511

Red Roof Plus Osaka Namba

Ideal for fun and relaxation, the Red Roof Plus Osaka Namba is located in the heart of Osaka’s city center. Room rates from $85. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 1-9-7 Sennichimae, Chuo-ku, Sennichimae, Chuo, Osaka 542-0074, Osaka Prefecture

Other upscale hotels you can refer to:

• Candeo Hotels Osaka Namba : 1-9-7, Sennichimae, Chuou-ku, Namba, Osaka, from $129.73
• The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka: 2-5-25 Umeda Kita-ku, Umeda, Osaka, from $410.09.
• Hotel Nikko Osaka: 1-3-3, Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Namba, Osaka from $391.22.
• The Westin Osaka Hotel: 1-1-20 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Umeda, Osaka from 372.27.
• Hotel Hankyu International: 19-19 Chayamachi Kita-ku, Umeda, Osaka from 365.50 USD
• Hotel AGORA Osaka Moriguchi: 10-5 Kawahara Cho, Moriguchi-shi, Osaka Castle, Osaka from 328.96 USD

Osaka travel blog: Best places to visit & top things to do in Osaka

As the third largest city in Japan, Osaka definitely has many famous tourist attractions. If you do not know where to go, what to do while visiting Osaka, here are a few suggestions for you.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is a typical symbol of this city. Its original name is Ozakajo, which is one of the most famous citadels in Japan, and has an important role in the unification of Japan in the late 16th century during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. The castle was built in 1583 and go through devastated and built several times, and in 1997 it was completed. Osaka Castle still retains its majestic grandeur beauty.

As an extremely popular tourist attraction, Osaka Castle is a National Heritage and a lot of visitors choose as their favorite destination. With a height of up to 58m, the castle consists of 8 floors and displays artifacts from ancient times with armor, weapons as well as ancient folk artifacts. Especially the 8th floor is where you can stand on it and watch the whole beautiful scenery around with ideal extremely view. In addition to the impressive 8 floors, Osaka Castle is also the best constructed in feudal times in Japan with gold-plated roofs. This is also the attraction that attract all eyes of all visitors when visiting here.

Around the castle is a large park, planted a lot of cherry blossom tree. When spring comes, Osaka Castle has really become a place to admire and have the best pictures with cherry flowers. The beauty of Osaka Castle bring more gentle beauty and tranquility. In the summer, the Okawa River on the northwest side of the castle becomes the main stage for the Tenjin-matsuri festival, one of the three largest Japanese festivals you can attend.

Read more:  Top castles in Japan — 10 best & famous Japanese castles you should visit .

Osaka Castle Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0002, Japan Hours: 9.00 – 17.00 (Last entry at 16.30). Closed: December 28th to the January 1st. Admission: Adults: 600 yen. Children (under 15): free Website: https://www.osakacastle.net/english/

Kaiyukan Aquarium

If you travel to Osaka with the younger members such as children or kids, the Kaiyukan Aquarium is one of the attractive destinations not to be missed. Kaiyukan Aquarium is considered one of the largest aquarium in the world and especially attracts many tourists to come here to “roam” in the deep sea. The numbers to build this aquarium are really huge, so that visitors really do not have to worry about the safety! This tourist site in Osaka is located on an area of 3900 square meters, 50 meters high, including 8 reinforced steel storey, the glass used is 314 tons divided into 103 covered glass sheets.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 552-0022, Japan Hours: 10am to 8pm (from 9:30am in May, October and mid July to August); admission ends 1 hour before closing Tel: +81-6-6576-5501 Entrance fee: 2300 yen Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Built in the 3rd century, the temple bearing the bold style of Sumiyoshi-zukuri, this style is not affected by the culture of Asian countries, so can be considered very unique. Sumiyoshi-zukuri is an architectural style with straight roofs (not dome-like houses built in the next century).

Sumiyoshi Taisha is the main shrine and the most famous of over two thousand Sumiyoshi shrines are found throughout Japan. The Sumiyoshi shrines protect the Kami gods (Shinto gods) who protect tourists, fishermen and seafarers. Therefore, tourists can easily see these temples near the harbors. During the New Year, especially during the worship holidays, Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of the most visited temples in this country.

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Traveling with the family? 15 things to do with kids in Osaka

USJ Art Outdoors Activities Illumination Kita (Umeda / Tenma) Cruise Other Areas Photo spot Bay area (USJ, Kaiyukan) Minami (Dotonbori, Namba, Shinsaibashi, Nipponbashi) Museum Leisure Zoo Hokusetsu (Expo, Minoh, ITM) Osaka Castle Osaka Castle Area Tennoji, Abeno, Shinsekai Observatory Culture ＆ History Acquarium Purpose Amusement park

Planning a trip to Osaka with the family? Never fear! The city and surroundings are full of amazing places where you can make your family getaway a fun-filled trip that you and your children will remember for years to come.

Traveling with kids can be hard, especially when they are very young. If you’ve got a stroller, or a nursing child, you probably know how difficult it can be to navigate a pedestrian space and keep everyone in their best spirits. While I can’t guarantee anyone’s emotional state, I can give you my best ideas for where to take the little ones and some ideas of exactly how family friendly each establishment is. Keep in mind, the estimated age ranges are there to give you an idea of who the attraction is targeted for—these are not hard, fast rules, but simply general suggestions.

So what are you waiting for? Grab those kiddos and let’s get out and explore Osaka!

1. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

2. tempozan ferris wheel.

• 3. Abeno Harukas
• 4. Legoland Osaka

5. Cup Noodles Museum

6. universal studios japan, 7. takopa osaka takoyaki park, 8. nifrel/expo city, 9. kids plaza, 10. spo-cha/round 1, 11. hirakata park, 12. osaka museum of housing and living, 13. grand front osaka, 14. osaka castle park, 15. teamlab botanical garden, general tips for traveling osaka with kids.

This amazing aquarium is an absolute family favorite, featuring 5 floors of sea creatures and animals that live near the waterside, including otters, penguins, capybara, and sea lions. The main Pacific Ocean tank features an impressive pair of whale sharks swimming among hammerheads and stingrays. All in all there are over 30,000 creatures in the aquarium. The jellyfish exhibits are also absolutely stunning. Check the feeding schedule on your way in to find out when you can watch your favorite sea creatures eating.

It takes about 2.5 hours to wind your way down the path that will guide you through 15 large tanks and a handful of interactive exhibits. There is a small cafe with light snacks and drinks available about mid-way through the walk, plus benches along the way where you can rest and view the fish at the same time. While strollers are allowed inside the aquarium, if you think your kids can walk, I recommend checking your stroller at the help desk before you enter the main exhibit. It’s not extremely easy to navigate the escalators and exhibits with your stroller. Plus young kids will probably want to press their noses up to the glass to get a good look at all the sea-life.

Address: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka Access: 5 min. walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo line Admission: Ages 2 & under Free / Ages 3–6 ¥700 / Ages 7–15 ¥1,400 / Ages 16 & over ¥2,700 Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information

Who doesn’t like a Ferris wheel? Ok, sure maybe there are a few people out there who are afraid of heights, but this giant wheel, located just outside of Kaiyukan, offers amazing views of Osaka Bay up to 112.5 meters above ground. There are also 8 special gondolas with see-through floors allowing you to feel like you’re floating in the sky as you gradually make your way up and around. The ride is particularly beautiful at sunset when you can watch the colors of the city below changing to dazzling city lights at dusk.

Although eating and drinking is not allowed while you are riding the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, the Tempozan Marketplace located right next door offers a number of restaurants and a sprawling food court. Grab a snack, or better yet, an ice cream after your ride! Oh, and even if you don’t go on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, it is still fun to look at. The advanced LED display shines in every color of the rainbow with constantly changing illustrations and welcome messages. It makes for great pictures!

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

Address: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka Access: 5 mins walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Admission: Ages 3 & over ¥900 Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES (in Tempozan Harbor Village) Nursing room: YES (in Tempozan Harbor Village) ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information

3. Harukas 300 (Abeno Harukas)

This is the perfect spot for the entire family to spend a relaxing couple of hours gazing at Osaka and beyond. The 60th floor observation deck looks out over the city buildings, the waters of Osaka Bay, and the Rokko Mountain Range in the distance among other landmarks near and far. Floor to ceiling glass windows enclose this platform which is 300 meters above ground. It’s really amazing to see all of Osaka at once stretching out below an open sky. Day or night, the views are amazing!

There’s also an adorable fluffy blue bear mascot, Abeno Bea, who makes occasional appearances on the observation deck. You can check his schedule here and snap a photo with him and your family. Also, there is ice cream! The 58th floor is filled with tables and chairs where you can relax with a snack from the nearby cafe. Coffee, ice cream, and beer is all on the menu. Plus there is always something fun and seasonal on the menu. This attraction is great for the young and old.

My only caution would be for families with very small babies or ear pain riding the elevator. It moves pretty quickly up to the 60th floor and your ears will pop. Alternatively, there is a free observation deck on the 16th floor, an art museum, & department store on the lower floors. You could enjoy the view from the lower observation deck and have fun exploring the shopping and amazing food options downstairs.

Address: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka Access: 1 min. walk from JR Tennoji Station, Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station, or Tennoji Station on the Osaka Metro Admission: Ages 3 & under Free / Ages 4–6 ¥500 / Elementary students ¥700 / Jr high & high school students ¥1,200 / Adults ¥1,800 Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: NO (however, there is a nursing room located on the 8th floor of the building) ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information

4. Legoland® Osaka Discovery Center

The Legoland® Osaka Discovery Center is a great place for kids. If you are a fan of the Lego® brand or are just curious, you will have a blast at the Discovery Center in Osaka. There are 12 attractions inside, including 2 rides and a 4D cinema where you can see those adorable minifigs making mischief of there own kind. The Mini Land is a fun display of some of Osaka’s most memorable sightseeing spots like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky Building, all in little bricks.

There’s a Duplo Farm for younger kids, Lego® Friends Olivia’s House catered to young girls, and a Build-and-test pit where you can work on your car designs before launching them down a race hill. Outside food is prohibited, but if you get hungry there is a Lego® themed cafe inside and the Tempozan Marketplace foodcourt is just outside the Discovery Center. Any Lego® fan can easily spend a few hours here, riding the rides and building with anything they imagine.

Legoland® Osaka Discovery Center

Address: Tempozan Marketplace 3 FL, 1-1-10 Kaigan-dori, Minato-ku, Osaka Access: 6 min. walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line Admission: Children and adults 3 yrs & above ¥2,200–¥2,800 Age range (approximate): 5–10 yrs, however be aware that each group must include at least one child (under 16) & one adult Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES (in Tempozan Harbor Village) ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information Build Your Own Fun, Brick-by-Brick LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Osaka

The Cup Noodles Museum in Ikeda is hallowed ground for instant ramen lovers. This museum tells the story of how Momofuku Ando invented the world’s first instant noodles in 1958, through interactive exhibits, video, and a replica of Ando’s workshop where Chicken Ramen was born. Visitors will find plenty of photo opportunities at the museum, like the Instagram-friendly Instant Noodles Tunnel, and statues of the founder and the beloved Chicken Ramen mascot Hiyoko-chan.

Admission to the museum is completely free, and you only pay for the activities or attractions that you choose to participate in. Popular activities include the Chicken Ramen Factory experience that is held at regular intervals throughout the day. Over the course of 90 minutes you will make the actual noodles that go into instant ramen, which you may then take home. You can also make your own unique Cup Noodles. Illustrate your very own cup design and choose from an array of soup flavors and ingredients to make your one-of-a-kind “My Cup Noodles”.

Cup Noodles Museums

Address: 8-25 Masumi-cho, Ikeda-shi, Osaka Access: 5 min. walk from Hankyu Ikeda Station Admission: Free of charge. *Fees collected for certain attractions like the My CUPNOODLES Factory (¥500/cup) & the Chicken Ramen Factory (¥600 elementary school children / ¥1,000 junior high school and up). Age range (approximate): All ages, Chicken Ramen Factory is limited to anyone over 6 years old Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information

Osaka’s premier theme-park, USJ, really needs no introduction. You’ll feel like you have stepped into a movie set when you walk through the park. Themed rides will take you through the shark-infested waters of JAWS and the wild and crazy world of the Minions. There are roller coasters, street performances, and specialty foods based off of your favorite movies. Super Nintendo World, the first of its kind, features rides as well as mini-games that will make you feel like you’ve warped into the world of Mario for real. The recently added Donkey Kong coaster will be a new experience all together.

This park has something for all ages! Guests who are not big enough for rides can enjoy the many shows in the park’s indoor theaters or head over to Universal Wonderland. This area of the park is designed specifically for little ones in mind. Here you can find a cast of Sesame Street characters, Snoopy & the rest of the Peanuts gang, and of course, Hello Kitty. The park offers special services for families such as rental strollers, child-switch options for rides, and reserve & ride tickets for attractions designed for younger guests.

Universal Studios Japan

Address: 2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka Access: 2 min. walk from Universal City Station on the JR Yumesaki Line Admission: Ages 4–11 ¥ / Ages 12+ ¥8,600 / Senior (65+) ¥7,700 Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES ▶ Official website

This food-court style establishment offers you the chance to try Osaka’s most famous food, takoyaki, from its most famous makers. Taste and compare freshly grilled takoyaki from Osaka Tamade Aiduya, Osaka Amemura Kogaryu, Abeno Takoyaki Yamachan, Juhachiban, Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru, and Tamaya all in one place.

Takopa is located in Universal City Walk, just outside of the Universal Studios Japan theme-park. It’s a great place to stop when you’re visiting the park. And it’s still lots of fun if you aren’t going inside USJ. You can still get that thrilling amusement park atmosphere from the 3-D billboards and flashy lights. Plus the takoyaki is great!

Takopa Osaka Takoyaki Park

Address: 4 FL Universal City Walk Osaka , 6-2-61 Shimaya, Konohana-ku, Osaka Access: Right outside Universal City Station on the JR Yumesaki Line Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES (located in Universal City Walk 3 FL) ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information

Interactive aquazoo Nifrel will awaken all your senses and inspire you with wonder as you experience the displays and interactive exhibits in this unique aquarium. Nifrel is much more of an experience than your normal aquarium. Artistic themes are incorporated into their displays which showcase the unique characteristics of each animal. While the exhibits focus heavily on aquatic life, there are other animals as well, like the birds and ring-tailed lemurs that roam freely among visitors to the aquarium.

Nifrel is located right in front of the shopping and entertainment complex EXPOCITY, which incidentally boasts Japan’s tallest Ferris wheel, Osaka Wheel, and a number of shops and restaurants. Across the street you will also find Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, which is great for long walks in nature and famous for its iconic Tower of the Sun statue. You can easily spend the entire day in this area when you plan your visit to Nifrel.

Address: EXPOCITY, 2-1 Senri Banpaku Kinen Koen, Suita, Osaka Prefecture Access: 2 min. walk from Banpaku-kinen-koen Station on the Osaka Monorail Admission: Ages 3–6 ¥650 / Ages 7–15 ¥1,100 / Ages 16+ ¥2,200 Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information

Kids Plaza is Osaka’s children’s museum and the interior is absolutely beautiful. Parts of it were designed by the same architect who made the Maishima Incineration Plant, Austria-born Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the artistic elements of the building will capture the imagination of children and adults alike. The museum spans 4 floors with themed areas, including interactive exhibits that make animation, anatomy, the natural sciences, and physics all come to life at your fingertips. Touching and playing folk instruments and trying on ethnic costumes allow you to experience different cultures from around the world as well as the homegrown festival atmosphere of Osaka. The museum exhibits are so extensive, you can easily spend half a day here, or even longer.

Young kids absolutely love the soap bubble play zone and the pump playground. A mini-town allows kids to role play shopping at a supermarket, working at a hair salon, or fixing plumbing and feeling completely grown up. Older kids will definitely enjoy playing in the computer studio and other crafts and workshops. The facility allows you to bring your own food and drink into the building and eat in the multi-purpose room (space permitting). There are also seats and tables in the facility where you can relax during your visit. Strollers and wheel chairs are available to borrow for free.

Kids Plaza Osaka

Access: Right next to exit 2 of Ogimachi Station on the Osaka Metro or 3 min. walk from JR Ogimachi Station Admission: Pre-schooler (3 years or older) ¥500 / Elementary and junior high school students ¥800 / Adult ¥1,400 / Senior (65+) ¥700 Age range (approximate): All ages, however pre-school through elementary school age will likely enjoy it the most Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES (4th floor) ▶ Official website

This multi-floor sports complex is great for anyone with some extra energy to burn. There are batting-cages, trampolines, human soccer, and roller skating. You can even borrow hoverboards or sign up for a few laps in a go-kart. There are ball-pits for younger kids and snacks at the concession stand.

Everything is indoors, so it doesn’t matter if it’s raining or uncomfortably hot, you can enjoy a day of sport-filled fun in the comfort of this climate-controlled building right in the heart of Namba. There are also karaoke rooms and a bowling alley available with certain packages. Plus typical bar games like billiards and darts are fun for the older crowd. Oh yeah, and they have one of those mechanical bucking broncos!

Spo-cha/Round 1 Sennichimae location

Address: 1-3-1, Namba, Chuo-ku Osaka Access: 3–10 min. walk from Namba Station Admission: Varies depending on duration of stay. *Check for special offers when you visit. Age range (approximate): All ages, however older kids and teenagers will have the most fun. Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES ▶ Official website

Hirakata Park is located a short train ride outside of the city of Osaka. It’s a dream playground for younger kids and has approximately 14 attractions that can be enjoyed by the tiniest of tots, starting at 0 years old. Families with small children will be especially happy to have so many options for their kids to explore. Mini-roller coasters, a cute Ferris wheel, and tons of other rides and attractions will give your kids a fun memory of their trip to Osaka. All in all there are approximately 45 attractions.

Special seasonal events make the park extra fun year-round like The Boon in summer which features pools and waterslides and the Winter Carnival featuring dazzling light displays, skating, and snow play areas in winter. There is also a small zoo and a rose garden which blooms in early summer and mid-autumn.

Hirakata Park

Address: 3-21 Ikaga Minamimachi, Hirakata, Osaka Prefecture Access: 4 min. walk from Hirakata-koen Station on the Keihan Railway Admission: Ages 2–elementary students ¥1,000 / Adult ¥1,800 +additional fees for each ride or one-day pass. Discounts available with online purchase or in combination with some travel passes. Age range (approximate): 0–10 Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES ▶ Official website

The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living is a special museum that showcases lifestyles in the city and how it has changed over the years. Visitors will especially enjoy walking through the streets of the replica version of an Osaka neighborhood from the mid 1800s. Pop your head inside a bookshop, apothecary and even a toy store. View houses that are realistically built to show how people lived in Osaka back in the day.

While this is more of a museum than an amusement facility, anyone who is interested in history or in learning something new will enjoy a visit to the museum. Think of this as a field trip-like destination with a few hands-on exhibits and lots of artifacts from the recent past.

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Address: 8 FL, Housing Information Center Building, 6-4-20 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka Access: Above Tenjinbashisuji 6-chome Station on the Osaka Osaka Metro Short walk from JR Temma Station Admission: High school or college student ¥300 / Adult ¥600 Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES ▶ Official website ▶ Map & further information

This modern large-scale shopping complex offers visitors a huge urban mall to explore. Outdoor gardens and open-air plazas allow visitors beautiful scenery to catch their breath in as they spend a day visiting the approximately 260 stores full of fashion, accessories, and other goods, many of which are catered to families. The restaurants also offer a number of meals specifically for the youngest among us.

There is also a kids play zone called BorneLund Asobi no Sekai on the third floor of the North Building, which charges a fee and is tons of fun for the pre-school crowd. Active Lab, located on the second and third floors of the North Building, is aimed more for elementary aged students through adults and will capture your imagination. Here you can interact with cutting-edge technology in other art and science projects created by university students. And it’s free! Once you’ve finished shopping I recommend relaxing in Umekita Plaza, where there are often art events, festivals, live music buskers, and an open-air skate rink in winter.

Grand Front Osaka

Address: 4-1 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka Access: at JR Osaka Station, Umeda Station on the Osaka Metro, & Osaka-Umeda Stations on the Hankyu and Hanshin Lines Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES (B1 FL Umekita Plaza, 4 FL South Bldg, 4 & 5 FL North Bldg.) ▶ Official website

Osaka Castle is at the top of everyone’s list for a destination in Osaka. The park around it offers visitors and young ones a chance to stretch their legs and take in some greenery. The main attraction is the castle tower that also has a museum filled with floors of history from the time of Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537–1598), Osaka’s most memorable historical figure and one of the great leaders who unified the country. Peep inside the replica of his glamorous golden tearoom and take in the sweeping views from the top floor of the castle keep when you enter the Castle Museum.

The park also offers fun boat rides through the moat on a golden gozabune, plenty of restaurants and gift-shops, plus there is a road train that will ferry guests with little legs or tired feet up to the main castle tower. The park hosts special events and concerts and the park is a popular spot to see plum blossoms in late winter, cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Children who like to be outdoors, imagine life in a Japanese castle, or simply run around while their parents snap memorable family photos will have a great time at Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka Castle Park

Address: 1-1 Osaka-jo, Chuo-ku, Osaka Access: Walk from Morinomiya, Tanimachi 4-chome, Osaka Business Park, or Temmabashi Station on the Osaka Metro; Morinomiya, Osakajo Kitazume, or Osakajo-koen Stations on the JR; Temmabashi Station on the Keihan Electric Railway Admission: Free, however additional fees are charged to enter the museum, boat ride, or other attractions Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: YES Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: YES (Located inside Miraiza Osaka-jo & Jo Terrace Osaka) ▶ Official website

The art collective known as teamLab opened a permanent nighttime art exhibit in the outdoor Nagai Botanical Garden, which features abstract light projections on installed objects and the natural environment. The massive 240,000 sq m garden encircles a central lake, which is decorated with floating lights that shine and produce tones as visitors pass by. Many of the exhibits are interactive and blur the lines between art and spectator. Children and adults alike will feel like they have stepped into a new dimension with glowing orbs and dancing pillars of light that guests may walk amongst.

The exhibit is open as day turns into night and only for a few hours after dark. This is a great event for families who like art and nature and involves a lot of walking. Most of the terrain is along a paved path so it is easy to push a stroller around the garden, however some parts of the exhibit are on unpaved ground.

teamLab Botanical Garden

Address: 1-23 Nagaikoen, Higashisumiyoshi-ku, Osaka Access: 10 min. walk from Nagai Station on the Osaka Metro or JR Hanwa Line Admission: Child (Elementary & junior high students) ¥600 / Adult (High school & above) ¥2,000 *Discounts available with online purchase Age range (approximate): All ages Stroller-friendly: Mostly Diaper changing area: YES Nursing room: Please consult the staff ▶ Official website

Nursing in public is not very common, so you may be more comfortable in a designated nursing room. You will find nursing rooms in most malls and department stores. Most of the establishments listed above are very family friendly so many have nursing rooms that also have microwaves and hot water for preparing formula or weaning foods for small children. Also, there are some apps, like Mama Map , that can help you find nearby nursing facilities.

Understanding age-based pricing : Generally child admission pricing is based on a child’s grade in school, which oftentimes will not coincide with school grade-levels or simple age pricing overseas. Here is a general framework to know which age your child would correspond with.

Elementary school age: Starts the April that your child turns 6. They would be the equivalent of a first-grader in Japanese school. If your child turned 6 in September and they are enrolled in elementary school overseas, they would still no be considered elementary age until April of the next year.

Jr. high school age: Children who have turned 12 by April are considered jr. high school age until the April that they turn 15.

High school age: Children who have turned 15 by April are considered high school age and most will be 18 by the time they graduate in March of their final year.

Many facilities offer discounted pricing for children Jr. high school age and younger, after which point compulsory education ends and they are lumped in with adult pricing. Some establishments do offer student pricing for high school or university students as well. Admission discounts for younger children usually works on an honor system, but to get student discounts for young adults, you may need to present a student ID.

Public transportation in Japan, including buses, trains, ropeways, etc is usually free for small children who are not yet elementary school age. However, if you would like to reserve a seat for your child on a bus or train with assigned seats you will probably be required to purchase a children’s ticket.

Children’s tickets are available at a discounted price for trains and other public transportation. The children’s tickets are for children elementary school aged children (6 years old as of April thru the April when they turn 12). The children’s discount tickets are approximately half the price of an adult fare.

Additionally, free fares for young children are only applicable for up to 2 children per adult. If you are traveling alone with 3 small children you will be asked to pay the children’s fare for one child.

Children’s train passes : Osaka Metro offers a day-pass that is a pretty good deal, especially if you are staying in the city. The adult fare is ¥620 (weekends) / ¥820 (weekdays). For children it is half-price ¥320 (weekdays) / ¥420 (weekends). If you ride the subway more than 3–4 times in one day you will be saving money on your fare.

Pre-paid train passes can save you time purchasing tickets at the machines and they are so easy to use. JR West offers ICOCA cards and also children’s ICOCA cards that you can charge up and then use for riding trains, subways, buses, etc or use as e-money when shopping at major stores. You simply tap them at the entrance and exit whenever you ride a train or bus and it automatically deducts the fare for you. Many stores and restaurants have a device at the cash register that can process your payment electronically, again by tapping your ICOCA. I recommend getting one for each member of your family if you will be here for more than a few days and relying on public transportation to get around.

The contents of this page were current at the time it was posted, but may differ from the present.

Text visible in this map is based on information from Map Tiler and may differ from actual geographical names.

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The Best Hotels in Osaka

Osaka is known for its modern architecture and insanely good street food. both can be found at the city’s top hotels. starchitect tadao ando masterminded the harmonie embrassee hotel. ana crown plaza boasts the first branch of the kyoto’s beloved kaiseki restaurant, tankuma kitamise. music lovers will want to book a stay at the rock star hotel—each room is themed after an iconic global rock artist or group..

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Osaka amazing pass: your gateway to osaka.

Today many cities across Japan have discount schemes. However few have the range, the variety or the value for money of the Osaka Amazing Pass.

So, join us today dear reader, as we look at this incredible offer in more detail, and give you some ideas as to how to best use it on your next visit to Osaka.

Table of Contents

What is the Osaka Amazing Pass?

The Osaka Amazing Pass allows either free or heavily discounted entry to dozens of attractions and events all across Osaka City. Users can save plenty of money on the transportation to and from these venues too.

In total, more than 40 venues offer free entry with the pass, and free transportation on the Osaka Metro subway network. Osaka City bus services are also included free of charge.

Some of the venues however, such as the Expo ’70 park actually lie outside Osaka’s city limits. As such, they aren’t served by the metro or the bus service. You will need to pay a little extra to get there using private rail lines or the Osaka Monorail.

However, the money you will save in entry fees more than makes up for this.

Types of Passes Available

The Osaka Amazing Pass actually comes in three varieties. The most common are the one day version and the two day version.

As one would expect, the two day version is more expensive, but offers additional benefits beyond that of the one-day option.

Recently a third variant, the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park Edition debuted to coincide with the 50 th anniversary of the World Expo, which was held in Osaka in the summer and autumn of 1970.

How much do the Passes Cost?

The one day version of the Osaka Amazing Pass costs 2,800 yen. You can order online here .

The two day pass costs 3,600 yen. Most travelers would agree that, if you are going to be in Osaka for at least a couple of days, then the two day pass represents the best value. Just 800 yen extra for basically double the usage represents phenomenal value in my book. Order a two day pass here .

Then, finally there is the question of the newly minted Expo ’70 Commemorative Park Edition pass. This one day pass offers all the benefits of the standard one day Osaka Amazing Pass, with the added benefit of travel options extended to cover up to Bampaku Kinen Koen Station on the Midosuji Line. This is the station closest to the park. One of Osaka’s most famous, and indeed eclectic landmarks, the Tower of the Sun, is a short walk from the station into the park. You can buy an Expo ’70 Commemorative Edition pass here .

Where Can I Buy the Pass in Osaka?

For convenience and to save time, we strongly recommend ordering your passes online here . Once you do that, you can later collect your pass from one of three tourist information centers located around the city.

The tourist information centers can be found in JR Osaka Station (near the central ticket gate), Namba (on the 1st floor of Nankai Namba Station) or JR Shin Osaka Station (just outside the central gate).

However, if you choose not to pre-order your pass online then they can also be purchased in person from any stationmaster’s office at any stop on the Osaka Metro Subway Lines. This applies to the standard one or two day pass.

However, the Expo ’70 Commemorative Edition passes can only be purchased either from the three tourist information centers mentioned above, or from the tourist center at Kansai International Airport. The tourist center is in the terminal 1 main building.

Other locations where one can purchase Osaka Amazing Passes include various hotels in Umeda area, Osaka Castle area, Hommachi, Namba area, Tennoji area, Bay area, Universal Studios area and Sakai.

A complete breakdown of where to purchase each type of pass can be found here.

Where can I go for free?

For a full list of the venues that offer free entry with the Osaka Amazing Pass, please check this list .

Here are some notable highlights:

The Umeda Sky Building Kuchu-Teien Observatory (free entry until 6pm. Usual cost: 1500 yen)

The Umeda Sky Building is one of Osaka’s most iconic structures. Built in the 1990s, the building towers over most of the surrounding Umeda business and shopping district. From the observation deck, you can see as far away as the Osaka Bay to the south, and the hills of Wakayama Prefecture to the east. On a clear day, if you look northwest, one can see as far away as Kyoto prefecture.

The observatory is also open every day of the year, meaning that it is a venue you can enjoy regardless of when you visit Osaka.

The Umeda Sky Building is about 10 minutes on foot from Umeda Station on the Osaka Metro, or Osaka Station on the JR line.

The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel (usual cost: 800 yen)

Standing at 112.5 meters, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel is one of the tallest rides of this type in Japan. Indeed it is taller than most in Asia. From the highest point of the wheel, you can see panoramic views of the entirety of Osaka Bay, and across the river to the famous Universal Studios Japan theme park. The adjoining shopping center, Tempozan Market Place, offers a wide variety of lunch and shopping options after you’ve enjoyed the Ferris Wheel.

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is a five minute walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro, Chuo Line.

Legoland Discovery Center Osaka (usual cost: 2400 yen)

If you’re travelling with family, then here is something for the kids to enjoy. Just next door to the Tempozan Wheel, you will find the Legoland Discovery Center. Kids of all ages can marvel at the Lego displays and play with some of the latest models in the adjacent Lego gift shop.

Please note that adults cannot enter Legoland without kids, and unaccompanied children under 15 are also not allowed.

The Tsutenkaku Tower (usual cost 800 yen)

As far as Osaka landmarks go, there are few more iconic than the Tsutenkaku. This tower, built shortly after World War Two as a symbol of Osaka’s resilience in the face of adversity, has remained a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike for more than 60 years.

The Tsutenkaku is a short walk from Ebisucho Station on the Osaka Metro, Midosuji Line.

Osaka Castle Museum (usual cost 600 yen)

It may be perhaps Osaka’s most iconic structure, but how much do you actually know about Osaka Castle?

Probably not as much as you would like to.

Well, Osaka Castle Museum is here to help. This museum, on the grounds of the castle itself, gives a detailed history both cultural and practical of the construction of the original castle. The museum also guides visitors through the evolution of Osaka Castle from a seat of power, to a cultural asset, to its role today as a symbol of the beauty and heritage of Osaka City.

With the Osaka Amazing Pass, you can also gain free entry to the Osaka Castle Nishinomaru Gardens, a place of great natural beauty and peace.

How About a Cruise?

In addition to allowing you to visit many of Osaka’s famous sites for no extra charge, the Osaka Amazing Pass also offers free entry (subject to seat availability) to a number of popular boat cruises.

The Santa Maria, which departs from the rear of the Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium, in Minato Ward , offers both a “day cruise” and a “twilight cruise”. Both cover the same route, around Osaka Bay, however, you can only use the Osaka Amazing Pass for one of them per purchase. Without the pass, the day cruise costs 1600 yen per person, the twilight cruise is 2100 yen.

Another popular Osaka cruise covered by the Osaka Amazing Pass is the Dotombori Jazz cruise.

Enjoy the sounds of a live band as you cruise up and down the famous Dotombori canal.

It is something of a custom in Osaka to give the boats a wave as they pass down the river, so feel free to wave back at the passers-by as you sail along.

Discounts Aplenty!

The Osaka Amazing Pass doesn’t just grant free entry into certain venues around Osaka. For those who don’t mind spending a little more, you can also enjoy discounts on a number of facilities, services and products across the city by presenting your Osaka Amazing Pass.

At the time of writing there are around 30 participating locations. A full list can be found here, but in the meantime, let us look at a few highlights:

Amagasaki Castle

It may not have the profile and prestige of Osaka Castle, but Amagasaki Castle, just over the border into Hyogo Prefecture is well worth a visit. With your Osaka Amazing Pass, you can enjoy a discount of 20% on the usual 500 yen entry fee.

Osaka Expo City

On the site where the famous Expo ’70 took place 50 years ago, now stands Osaka Expo City. This massive shopping and entertainment complex boasts, among other things a state of the art 4D cinema, high-end, designer shopping outlets and plenty to keep the kids entertained too.

At Expo City, your Osaka Amazing Pass entitles you to a book of vouchers giving discounts and other bonuses at a range of stores and outlets across the complex. The exact vouchers offered change from time to time. Ask at the information desk once you reach Expo City for further details.

Spa World: Onsen from Around the World

After a day of trekking around Osaka, taking in as many sites as possible, nothing quite beats a good long soak in a hot bath. At Spa World, just outside Shin Imamiya Station on the JR Loop line, visitors can enjoy a variety of different baths, saunas and spa treatments.

This Onsen resort is set over multiple floors allowing for both gender-divided and mixed gender bathing (You’ll need to bring a bathing suit for the mixed area).

Themed on around the idea of the ancient bathhouses from the days of The Roman Empire, the faux Greco-Roman architecture belies a very modern and luxurious set up.

Entry to Spa World usually costs 1300 yen for adults and 1000 yen for kids.

With your pass, visitors can enjoy a 200 yen discount for adults and a 100 yen saving for kids.

SEGA Abeno Q’s Mall SEGA VR Area

If you’re an 80’s kid like me, you probably have fond memories of playing SEGA’s consoles back in the early 1990s. Today, SEGA’s business focusses mostly on game centers and interactive entertainment. This new Virtual Reality-driven experience near Tennoji Station is one such venture.

Visitors to the VR center can enjoy a 200 yen discount which equates to 10% off of the usual 2000 yen fee to play a VR experience.

Legoland Discovery Center

If you do decide to take up the previously mentioned offer of free entry into Legoland Discovery Center, then don’t forget that presenting your pass also entitles you to a 20% discount on the café and adjoining shop.

Bear in mind that you will need to enter Legoland itself to be able to access the café.

Osaka Sky Vista: City Bus Tour

Open-top bus tours taking in famous local landmarks have been a fixture of most major European cities for decades now. So, it’s no surprise that Osaka too decided to join this ongoing craze when they added the Osaka Sky Vista tour a few years ago.

This non-stop 1 hour tour of the city’s hotspots is not to be missed.

With the Osaka Amazing Pass, Adults can save 200 yen on the 1500 yen asking price. Kids can also enjoy a 100 yen discount, bringing the cost of their ticket down to 900 yen.

Some Additional Considerations

Of course, like all discount schemes there are limitations to the Osaka Amazing Pass, and it’s important to be aware of them before you go ahead and commit to buying.

First of all, the pass is valid from the time of the first train until the last train on the day of purchase (or the last train on the next day if it’s a two day pass.)

Two day passes must be used on consecutive days.

The exact nature of the discounts and free entry offers available with the pass varies periodically. Please check the official Osaka Amazing Pass English site for the latest information before you buy.

As always, availability to enter many facilities is dependent on the weather, crowds and current public safety issues such as natural disasters or viral outbreaks. The site mentioned above is also updated regularly with this kind of information when required.

Limited capacity events, such as boat cruises are on a first come, first served basis.

Final Thoughts

Even just for the benefits of train and bus travel alone, an avid sightseer could get plenty of value out of the Osaka Amazing Pass. However when you add to that the plethora of free and reduced entry offers included, and the huge diversity of activities to choose from, there is no excuse not to buy this.

So what are you waiting for? Order yours today and start planning your next trip to Osaka!

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Shugendo Rituals and Fire Walking on Mount Kongo

Fascinating anď interesting as always. I fully intend to purchase the 2 day ticket the next time I’m over. There can be no bettter way to explore Osaka. It is probably the best way for a first time visitor to see wonderful Osaka. I cant wait!

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6 Best Beaches in Osaka

Summer in Osaka: Osaka Beaches

Going to the beaches during summer is one of the best ways to beat the heat and enjoy. Japan has many beautiful beaches and many of them offer a variety of fun summer events and activities such as water sports, fireworks displays, music festivals, and dance performances. In addition, many shops offer refreshing drinks and food.

People enjoy beaches in the summer because in Japan the beaches are usually only open during the early part of summer from June to September apart from other resorts that are always open. In Osaka, many best beaches offer fun activities, events, and festivals during summer. In this article, I will share the best beaches in Osaka that you can enjoy with your family and friends.

.   .   .

Nishikinohama beach park (nishiki beach).

Nishiki Beach is one of the popular beach destinations in Osaka well-known for its white sand and greenery. During summer many water sports activities take place such as jet skiing windsurfing and events related to summer. And apart from swimming, you can collect clams with your kids a fun activity that they will surely enjoy. It also offers BBQ facilities to enjoy the beach more with family and friends relax and enjoying the ocean view.

Date:  Opens from Early July to End of August

Information

Tan’nowa Tokimeki Beach

Tannowa Tokimeki Beach is one of the well-known seaside destinations during summer in Osaka. It offers a lot of activities and events related to summer. Apart from the sandy shores and clean water they also have some facilities where you can enjoy BBQ, with family and friends, rental water sports equipment, and many more.

Enjoy collecting clams and other shellfish with your kids, they also have some fun games to participate and there are some classes on lifesaving and many more.

Date:  July 1 to August 31, 2024

Sennan Marble Beach

Sennan Marble Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Osaka recognized as “Lover’s Sacred Place” with a heart-shaped monument and white marble pebbles which many tourists enjoy. It offers relaxation with stunning sunset views. During summer, many events, festivals, lively activities, and water sports are held. Enjoy the sightseeing and walking around the beach.

Date:  Always Open

Rinku Marble Beach

Rinku Marble Beach is also known for its white marble pebbles which are enjoyed by many tourists. It is very accessible to get through near Rinku Town Station. Apart from the beach where you can enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean, you can also enjoy the stunning sunset view that gives relaxation. Many fun activities are offered at the park side, some events and festivals are held during summer.

Hakotsukuri Beach – Pichi Pichi Beach

Pichi Pichi Beach also known as (Hakotsukuri Beach) offers white sand and clean water. The beach is open only during summer from July to August. It is also accessible near to the train station. During summer various lively activities are held such as the water sports activities and the Marine festival held in August.

They also have facilities to enjoy BBQ, and shops for rental in some activities on the beach. You can also enjoy food and fun activities with your kids such as collecting clams, pulling nets to catch seafood, and many more.

Tarui Southern Beach (Rinku Minamihama Beach)

Tarui Southern Beach also known as Rinku Minamihama Beach popular for its natural beauty with its clear blue ocean and greenery perfect for relaxation that gives refreshing vibes. It offers various unique beach activities to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and other water sports activities.

They have many shops offering rental and selling products to use for beach activities. Apart from marine sports tournaments, they also host lively music events including some food stalls and shops for souvenirs.

Date:  Early July to Late August

Thank you for reading, Hope this article helps you about the beaches in Osaka. For more travel tips about Osaka check out the following articles.

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Clarita Kurita

Greetings to all mommies I am a supermom from Philippines. Previously, I worked and lived in Dubai for seven years, until 2015 the year I  moved in Japan. Currently, I am happily settled here with my Japanese husband and our 7 months old baby. I could only describe my almost 6 years of living here as a roller coaster ride more so, after I gave birth to my son. Japan had changed me in ways unimaginable. It has influence my lifestyle, my perceptions and beliefs. I was able to witness firsthand the pros and cons of living in the country. From their  language, culture and ethnicity, the people, place and in work. Those years were enough to give me quite personal and memorable experiences which I would be more than delighted to share with you.

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• World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers' 25 Favorite Cities in the World of 2023

T+L readers select their favorite cities in the world in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

Alexandra Farias

Five of seven continents are represented on this year’s list of best cities in the world, according to T+L readers. And the rankings prove that, this past year, our resilient readers got back to Asia and Africa, and traveled to cities well worth the long-haul flight, like Marrakesh (No. 14) and Singapore (No. 18). Based on reader comments, it seems the travelers who voted in this year’s World’s Best Awards survey were most interested in welcoming locals, great food, safety, reasonable prices, and aesthetics (be it picturesque nature or Renaissance architecture). 

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Sights/landmarks
• Friendliness

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. 

It looks, from this list, like Mexico is T+L readers’ favorite country in the world. No fewer than five Mexican cities ranked as the best in the world this year. Japan had three winners, and Thailand, Italy, and Portugal each had two. There was some movement in the top five, compared to last year’s rankings, with two European cities slipping to make room for No. 2 Udaipur, India, and No. 3 Kyoto, Japan. It’s typical to see at least one European city in the top five — often Istanbul (No. 8 this year, also winning the title of best city in Europe) or Florence, Italy (No. 12). Those spots, this year, went to Asian cities instead, indicative of the shift back to travel to Japan (Tokyo came in at No. 7, four spots behind Kyoto) and India (which also had Mumbai at No. 10, trailing Udaipur by eight). 

Read on to learn how Oaxaca, Mexico, claimed the coveted top spot for the second year in a row, and why travelers chose these 25 cities as the best in the world.

1. Oaxaca, Mexico

For the second year in a row, Oaxaca took the No. 1 spot on our best cities around the world list. The mole and mezcal capital has long been a favorite among T+L readers, but must-visit restaurants and cocktail bars ( Selva , Sabina Sabe , to name a few), plus new-and-improved hotel talent, like the stunning, six-room Casa Silencio , really gave the city the edge it needed to return to the top of the podium. As one reader said, Oaxaca is “hands down one of the coolest cities in the whole world.” The coolest, you might say.

Reader Score: 93.53

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia

Hands down one of the coolest cities in the whole world.

2. Udaipur, India

Jeremy Woodhouse/Getty Images

Udaipur is vying for that top spot. It was at No. 2 in 2021, before slipping into 10th place last year. Now? It’s two-tenths of a vote from perfection. As international travelers return to India — and finally see the long-awaited Raffles Udaipur , which opened during the pandemic — it’s no surprise that Udaipur is once again climbing the ranks. One reader sums up Udaipur’s appeal — in all caps, no less, saying, “VERY VERY BEAUTIFUL CITY.”

Reader Score: 93.33

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia | Tripadvisor

3. Kyoto, Japan

Yeojoon Yoon/Getty Images

In Tokyo, attractions are sprawled out in the open, for tourists to find easily. In Kyoto, those attractions are hidden in plain sight. It is a city of remarkable shops and restaurants and tucked into narrow, enticing alleyways. You have to look closely, but you’ll be rewarded with, as one reader said, “the best food in the world.” Another Kyoto stan noted the city’s “incredible sights and cultural landmarks with so much history that is so different from the cultures of Europe and the U.S.” That same traveler continued, “One small example was sitting around with locals soaking our bare feet together in a giant, very hot foot bath one evening at a spa situated on a train platform.” WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 92.06

4. Ubud, Indonesia

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

A fixture in the top five at this point, Ubud is an inland Balinese city surrounded by jungle. One reader described their vacation highlights: “swinging over rice terraces, riding elephants, chasing waterfalls, taking pictures with monkeys, shopping at both market stalls and high-end stores, beautiful restaurants ( Cafe Lotus at night is special), cheap massages, and hotels with stunning scenery.” Sounds like a perfect itinerary.

Reader Score: 91.73

Book Now: Tripadvisor

5. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Last year’s runner-up and 2021’s winner, San Miguel de Allende is a longtime favorite among T+L readers. This “visually stunning” city, per one reader, is brimming with “art galleries and boutique shops,” another fan said. And as one T+L reader observed, “[It’s a] magical city that feels more like Spain than Mexico.”

Reader Score: 91.19

6. Mexico City, Mexico

Andrew Hasson/Getty Images

The capital of Mexico, and its largest city, was founded by Aztec Indigenous communities and is a regular in this category’s top 10. Every year brings more exciting hotel openings (this year it’s the beautifully designed Soho House Mexico City , opening in the fall), restaurant debuts, and perhaps most importantly, food tours of the city’s best tacos.

Reader Score: 90.55

7. Tokyo, Japan 

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

It’s not in Tokyo’s nature to sit blithely by as Kyoto places in the top five. Japan’s energetic capital, with Michelin-starred ramen joints, phenomenal new hotels (see: Bulgari Tokyo and the forthcoming Edition in Ginza ), and a never-ending list of neighborhoods to explore, draws travelers in just like Cyndi Lauper, time after time.

Reader Score: 90.30

Book Now: Marriot | Tripadvisor

8. Istanbul, Turkey

Also named the best city in Europe this year, Turkey's culture and style capital celebrates “the intermingling of cultures and religion and people,” one reader said. “The rest of the world should take this city as an example.” They continued, “the food is exceptional, and people are ridiculously welcoming to tourists.” 

Reader Score: 90.23

9. Bangkok, Thailand

Karl Hendon/Getty Images

It’s rare that Thailand’s bustling capital would rank higher than Chiang Mai. Case in point: last year, Bangkok came in at No. 24, while Chiang Mai landed at No. 7. Climbing 14 spots as travelers flock back to Asia, Bangkok has new hotels (see The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon ) and an absolutely delectable display of Michelin-starred restaurants to thank for its rising stock.

Reader Score: 89.99

10. Mumbai, India

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Our readers love to look beneath the surface of Mumbai — venturing past classic tourist haunts, like Leopold Cafe , and sites like the Gateway of India arch to the “art galleries and the fish market in the Colaba area,” as one T+L reader detailed.

Reader Score: 89.79

11. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Danica Chang/Getty Images

Despite slipping slightly in rank this year — after making the top 10 in 2021 and 2022 — Chiang Mai remains many T+L readers’ “favorite city in Thailand,” as one said. Reader Score: 89.49

12. Florence, Italy

Ondrej Bucek/Getty Images

Come for the mesmerizing Botticellis hanging in the Uffizi Gallery and the detailed look at the Medici family tree, stay for the alfresco sculptures in lesser-known piazzas. “Every time we come here, we fall a little more in love with this place and its amazing antiquities,” one fan gushed.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 89.48

13. Luang Prabang, Laos

Carsten Brandt/Getty Images

After not making the list last year, the Laotian city returns at No. 13 for 2023. In the mountains of north Laos, Luang Prabang is scenically sandwiched between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.

Reader Score: 89.44

14. Marrakesh, Morocco

Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images

Marrakesh was the only African city to rank this year, exciting T+L readers with its restaurants and hotels tucked into the bustling Medina and iconic sites like the Majorelle Gardens and Bahia Palace.

Reader Score: 89.24

15. Rome, Italy

Camilla Glorioso

The 2,500-year-old city, which is older than Italy itself, is getting a lot of attention this year. An influx of new luxury hotels — an Edition, a Bulgari, and a Six Senses — might even push Italy’s capital city into the top 10 next year. Time will tell.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.91

16. Mérida, Mexico

Jurgen Vogt/Getty Images

“Mérida is an undiscovered gem in Mexico,” one T+L reader said. “The food was excellent and inexpensive.” In addition to praising the food (Mérida is known, especially among Mexicans, as a foodie town), travelers remarked on how safe the city is, with multiple readers calling it a “very safe city.”

Reader Score: 88.81

17. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Wirestock/Getty Images

Cambodia reopened to American travelers in November 2021, and since then, international travelers have been wading back into the wonders of Siem Reap. One reader, who visited right as the country reopened, said, “Our hotel in Siem Reap did not have the restaurant back yet, but we found 'Brown,’ a coffee shop. The second day we went, we were recognized, and by the third day, he knew our orders. At our hotel, the person at the desk would walk us out to our vehicles to say goodbye and greet us at the end of the day upon our return. I felt like royalty here.”

Reader Score: 88.80

18. Singapore

Caroline Pang/Getty Images

The land of hawker centers, the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool, the merlion, and the legendary Singapore sling came in at No. 18 this year, after not placing on the world’s best cities list for the past two years. The Lion City reopened in 2021 and continues to become less of a stopover and more of a final destination. (Though, with Changi Airport taking the No. 1 spot for world’s best airport, it’s not hard to see why a Singapore stopover is so appealing.) 

Reader Score: 88.78

Book Now: Hotels.com | Tripadvisor

19. Charleston, United States

Lindsey Harris Shorter

Charleston, South Carolina, was named the best city in the U.S., by T+L readers, for the 11th year in a row. Travelers can’t get enough of this coastal Southern city’s pastel-colored row homes, lowcountry cooking, and phenomenal hospitality.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.63

20. Lisbon, Portugal

A treasure trove of mosaic tile, coastal scenery, and really, really good tinned fish, Lisboa is back on the world’s best cities list for the first time since 2020. Reader Score: 88.62

21. Santa Fe, United States

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Santa Fe is one of just two American hubs to make the 2023 list. Though it hasn’t ranked among the best cities in the world since 2019, its vibrant art scene, Pueblo-style architecture, spa-forward hotels, and one-of-a-kind cuisine, blending Hispanic and Native American influence, drew T+L readers back this year.

Reader Score: 88.47

22. Hobart, Australia

Andrew Merry/Getty Images

The capital of Tasmania is a newcomer to this list — it hasn’t placed in at least the last five years. But it’s certainly a welcome addition to our readers’ selection of their favorite cities in the world, as a fantastic city destination on an island off Australia, a counterpart to Auckland, if you will.

Reader Score: 88.44

23. Guadalajara, Mexico

Simon McGill/Getty Images

The largest city in the Mexican state of Jalisco, Guadalajara pulls T+L readers in with incredible street food, including torta ahogada (a sauce-drenched sandwich) and tacos brimming with birria.

Reader Score: 88.13

24. Porto, Portugal

Jui-Chi Chan/Getty Images

The gateway to Portuguese wine country, Porto is praised by T+L readers for “not [being] overrun with American tourists” and, of course, for its grilled sardines. “So colorful, so friendly, and most everything you want to see is within walking distance if you are staying in town,” one reader summarized. Reader Score: 88.09

25. Osaka, Japan

Last but certainly not least, Osaka is the third Japanese city on the list this year. Located south of No. 3 Kyoto, readers were drawn to Osaka for the excellent public transportation and the wonderfully welcoming (and primarily non-English-speaking) people. Of the people they encountered in Osaka, one reader said, “We have a lot to learn from them.”

Reader Score: 88.05

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Japan Runs on Vending Machines. It’s About to Break Millions of Them.

New yen notes set to be introduced this summer won’t be compatible with many machines that businesses like ramen shops rely on.

By Kiuko Notoya and John Yoon

Kiuko Notoya reported from Tokyo, and John Yoon from Seoul.

The vending machine at Hiroshi Nishitani’s Tokyo ramen restaurant has been reliable for a decade. Customers feed it money, and it prints out their orders while he makes fresh noodles in the kitchen. The food is served within minutes once the customer delivers the order to the pair of cooks at the counter.

But the machine’s days are numbered. Japan is set to introduce a new set of bank notes this summer, something it does every 20 years or so to thwart counterfeiters. The machine, already too old to accept recent coin designs, won’t accept the new bills, Mr. Nishitani said.

“There’s nothing wrong with the vending machine,” he said, expressing frustration with the need to buy an expensive new unit compatible with the new notes.

All over Japan, restaurants, cafeterias, bathhouses and other businesses are facing a similar prospect. The country has 4.1 million vending machines, according to Nikkei Compass, a database for industry reports. Many of them will be obsolete once the new 1,000-, 5,000- and 10,000-yen bills roll out in July featuring hologram technology .

In Japan, where the work force is shrinking, the machines reduce the need for cashiers and servers. Among the most reliant on the machines are ramen shops, which serve one of the Japanese working class’s favorite, most affordable meals.

Ramen, wheat noodles in a richly flavored broth, became an integral part of Japanese cuisine after being popularized in the 1980s as the country’s economy took off. Restaurants spread as people clamored for the quick and filling meal and as chefs experimented with new ingredients. Many chefs now dedicate their lives to perfecting the dish. Mr. Nishitani, who is 42, began making ramen at 17.

The noodles are a staple among construction and factory workers, salarymen, and students in search of inexpensive meals. Many ramen shops are clustered around train stations, catering to commuters.

On a recent Tuesday afternoon, students from a nearby university filed in for a late lunch at Mr. Nishitani’s nine-seat shop, Goumen Maruko.

He and his three employees sell about 100 dishes a day. Each is priced under 1,000 yen, or roughly $6.50. The most popular dish is a $5 Jiro-style bowl: noodles with a mountain of vegetables and clumps of pork fat soaked in a steaming broth of pork and chicken. The most expensive meals, which come in larger portions, cost about $6.20.

To defray the cost of upgrading or replacing vending machines, some municipalities offer subsidies, but most of the cost will fall on shop owners. A new machine can cost two million yen, or about $13,000, said Masahiro Kawamura, a sales manager at Elcom , a Tokyo company that sells vending machines that dispense tickets.

Yoshihiro Serizawa, who runs a soba shop in Tokyo, said he spent about $19,000 on his new machine, which also accepts cashless payment — “a huge financial burden.” The amount is equivalent to more than 6,000 orders of his most popular dish: soba with mixed vegetables and seafood tempura, which costs just over $3.

“You have to constantly think about how you will make back the money,” Mr. Serizawa said.

The new bank notes are heightening the pressures on Japan’s small businesses. Recently, inflation has sped up after staying low for years, and the country slipped into a recession .

Increased flour and electricity prices have added to the expenses for ramen shops in particular. Analysts at Tokyo Shoko Research said that 45 ramen restaurants nationwide had filed for bankruptcy last year, the highest number since 2009. With customers unaccustomed to rising prices, businesses have struggled to increase theirs.

Among ramen chefs, the widely accepted limit for a bowl of ramen is known as the “1,000-yen wall .”

“I really don’t want to raise the price any further,” Mr. Nishitani said.

When Japan released its last set of bills in 2004 , modifying the vending machines and issuing 10 billion new bank notes cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Demand was so high that one manufacturer near Osaka, called Glory, saw its net income triple, according to an annual report.

Transitioning to new machines could take years. By the summer of 2023, only about 30 percent of drink vending machines could accept the 500 yen coins introduced in 2021, according to the Sankei Shimbun , a Japanese newspaper.

Mr. Nishitani’s vending machine does not work with those coins, either. His Tokyo ward is subsidizing up to $1,900 toward new machines, a city official said. Mr. Nishitani laughed at the notion that it was nearly enough.

With two months to go before the new bills are issued, he had still not placed an order for a new machine. He recently began accepting payments through a credit card reader for the first time. But that has come with more administrative fees and more work.

“I can’t get used to it at all,” he said.

Kiuko Notoya is a Tokyo-based reporter and researcher, covering news and features from Japan. More about Kiuko Notoya

John Yoon is a Times reporter based in Seoul who covers breaking and trending news. More about John Yoon

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The Best Things to do in Osaka in the Fall

(0 - 12 years old)

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February 9, 2020

Osaka in fall is unique - it’s just what happens when you take an already slightly eccentric, food and festival obsessed city and add beautiful fall foliage and even more festivals. Visiting between September and November means you’ll get mild weather - Osaka weather at this time has temperatures ranging between 18 and 29 degrees - and also get to witness the truly breathtaking fall foliage in Osaka. Japan fall season typically starts in late September and runs until late November, but if your trip falls either side of this, you could still get lucky and be around for some fall events. Aside from the popular  things do to in Osaka  in September, October and November, there are dozens of  hidden gems , and of course several autumn-centric events and festivals. These are the best things to do in Osaka in the fall, from viewing the best foliage to participating in annual events to mark the occasion - because, in Japan’s friendliest city, it would be impossible not to get involved!

See the foliage during Osaka fall season

If there’s one thing to do in Japan in the fall, it’s to seek out the best fall foliage. Luckily for you, Osaka  in fall is particularly rewarding in this area, and there are several places you can visit in and around the city to see the beautiful changing colors of the leaves. Among these are the city’s natural parks, including Daisen Park, Minoo Park, and Osaka Castle Park. But many of the temples are also set among stunning trees, whose leaves change color over this time. And if you want to combine adrenaline with fall foliage, head to Hoshi no Buranko in Hoshida Park. This aerial suspension bridge that hovers among incredible multi-colored trees is one of the most popular things to do in Osaka in the fall.

Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine Autumn Festival 

The Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine is one of Osaka’s most important Shinto shrines, but since it’s a little outside of the city centre, it’s slightly off the main tourist radar. There are festivals held here to mark all seasonal changes, but it’s the moon viewing festival held during the fall which is really special. Unsurprisingly, it takes place over the autumn moon, which in 2019 will be on Friday 13 September. It’s at this time that the moon is brightest, and the celebrations on the ground at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine match the spectacle taking place in the skies above. This moon viewing festival is particularly spectacular because the performances, like poetry read by the shrine’s priest, take place on the startlingly curved, and burned orange - ubiquitous to Japan’s Shinto shrines - bridge,  which leads the way to the shrine.

Yao Kawachi Ondo Festival

Yao Kawachi Ondo is an annual festival that takes place in Yao. Yao is said to be the birthplace of the popular Osaka dance Kawachi Ondo, which serves as an offering to the dead. The festival pays tribute to this long history with a vibrant one day event that centers around the famous dance. Aside from an epic dance competition, there are also several stalls selling traditional food and drink  - which in a city as obsessed with food as Osaka is means the seasonal dishes you’ll find here are not to be missed. Don’t miss trying satsumaimo, a Japanese sweet potato which is simply grilled to release its sweetness, and kuri gohan, a sweet rice cake filled with chestnut paste. In 2019, the festival - now in its 42nd year - is taking place on Sunday September 8th.

Hiraoka-jinja Festival

Hiraoka-jinja is a historic shrine which is said predates Japan’s first emperor taking the throne, and its fall festival is one of the biggest and most celebrated, making it one of the most popular things to do in Osaka in October. It’s the shrine’s largest annual festival, and it centers around giving thanks for the autumn harvest. During the festival you’ll witness dozens of futon taiko, round floats that carry Japanese drums. There are also stalls are located around the shrine, which set the tone for an enticing atmosphere. It’s one of the most vibrant and engaging autumn festivals, and well worth seeking out if you’re in town in mid-October. To reach the shrine, take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Hiraoka Station.

Sakai Matsuri

If you’re in Japan in the fall, “matsuri” is a word you’ll hear a lot, as it’s the Japanese word for festival. Sakai is actually a town located in the Osaka prefecture, but if you’re in Osaka in the fall, making the short trip to witness this festival will be an experience to remember. Sakai Matsuri is a popular festival held on the third Saturday and Sunday of October each year. It’s been taking place since the mid-1970s, and these days the main parade attracts upwards of 7,000 participants. Most of the action centers around Oshoji Symbol Road, and involves participants dressing up in beautifully detailed costumes that draw on Sakai’s long and fascinating history, including traditional folk dancing and a Grand Tea Ceremony. There are also market stalls set up throughout the area, and sideline events that keep the atmosphere buzzing well into the afternoon.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is worthy of a visit at any time of the year , but during the fall months it takes on a brand new look and feel. That’s because the grounds in which it’s situated are full of incredible trees that turn all of the warming fall colors as the season takes hold. The castle itself dates back to the 16th century, and was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi - a famous Japanese figure, but it’s the unique fall foliage which makes it even more spectacular. As well as the burned oranges and dramatic reds, the castle grounds are home to many species of tree whose leaves turn a brilliant yellow, framing the castle in gold.If you’ve deliberately timed your trip to see the fall foliage in Osaka, then this spot should be at the very top of your list

Ramen Girls Festival

With such a curious name, you might be wondering what this festival is all about, but don’t worry, it is open to all genders. Whilst for a western audience, the reason may seem unusual, the idea behind the festival was to dismantle the idea of ramen being a macho dish, and to encourage girls to go out to eat ramen alone too! For any visitor, the festival offers an intriguing - and hands on - insight into the often male-dominated world of ramen. This famous Japanese dish is an unmissable food to try while in the country, and there are few better places to do this than at a national festival, so get ready to do some serious eating! Ramen Girls Festival takes place from late September to early October, and is split over two parts each featuring new vendors. Entry is free, but if you want to purchase dishes you’ll have to do so on a cash basis.

Katsuo Temple

If you want to get out of town for a change of scenery, head to the mountains just north of Osaka. Many believe the region called Mino brings good luck to those who visit it, but even for the non-superstitious there are several reasons to visit, especially in the fall. The temple holds a variety of traditional daruma dolls, and outside surrounding the temple are beautiful gardens. They’re worth visiting at any time of the year, but from September, they take on the changing colors synonymous with Japan in the fall. There’s even an entire tunnel of fall foliage, making this one of the most popular things to do in Osaka in November, when the colors are almost guaranteed.

Higan-e Autumn Ceremony

Higan-e Ceremony is an event that takes place twice a year - once on the spring equinox, and once on the autumn equinox. It is a festival that involves all of the Buddist temples in Osaka , each offering their own take on the day with specific food stands, events, and traditional ceremonies. It’s one of the best ways to experience autumn in Osaka, and with festivities often lasting up to one week in mid-September, focused around the dates of the 21st to the 23rd.

Shitennoji Wasso Festival

In early November each year, thousands of traditionally clothed people take to the streets of Hoenzaka in Osaka for one very unique reason. If you weren’t prepared, you might be startled by the number of people shouting “wasso!”, but it’s part of a long tradition. “Wasso” is Korean for “I came”, and it’s shouted as a tribute to those who have come to Japan from across the continent. The outfits are the main spectacle at this event - they’re intricately made and represent some of the finest Japanese clothing traditions. But there’s also plenty of other festivities to get involved with, including drumming, singing, and dancing. And since Osakans are proud of their reputation as Japan’s friendliest city, make the most of the atmosphere and let yourself be swept away in the festivities!

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French Open women's singles final: Date, start time, TV channel and more to know

Iga Swiatek will be looking for her fourth French Open title in the past five years when she takes on Jasmine Paolini in the women's singles final Saturday in Paris.

Poland's Swiatek, ranked No. 1 in the world, breezed past American Coco Gauff 6-2, 6-4 in their semifinal match on Thursday.

The two-time defending champion at Roland Garros, Swiatek can become the fourth woman to win four French Opens in the Open Era (since 1968) joining Chris Evert (seven titles), Steffi Graf (six) and Justine Henin (four).

Paolini, the tournament's No. 12 seed, defeated 17-year-old Mirra Andreev 6-3, 6-1 in their semifinal to reach her first career Grand Slam final.

It's been a dozen years since an Italian woman has played for the French Open title, dating back to Sara Errani in 2012. (Incidentally, the doubles team of Paolini and Errani advanced to the this year's semifinals at Roland Garros with a win on Wednesday.)

When is French Open women's final?

The women's final will take place at Stade Roland Garros in Paris on Saturday, June 8 at 9 a.m. ET (2 p.m. local time).

How to watch French Open women's final

The French Open women's final will be broadcast live on NBC and also available online on Peacock.

Noah Eagle will handle the play-by-play , with analysis from Mary Carillo and John McEnroe.

Iga Swiatek's path to French Open women's final

• Tournament's No. 1 seed
• 1st round: Defeated Leolia Jeanjean
• 2nd round: Defeated Naomi Osaka
• 3rd round: Defeated Marie Bouzkova
• 4th round: Defeated Anastasia Potapova
• Quarterfinals: Defeated No. 5 Marketa Vondrousova
• Semifinals: Defeated No. 3 Coco Gauff

Jasmine Paolini path to French Open women's final

• Tournament's No. 12 seed
• 1st round: Defeated Daria Saville
• 2nd round: Defeated Hailey Baptiste
• 3rd round: Defeated Bianca Andreescu
• 4th round: Defeated Elina Avanesyan
• Quarterfinals: Defeated No. 4 Elena Rybakina
• Semifinals: Defeated Mirra Andreev

Swiatek vs. Paolina head to head

Iga Swiatek holds a 2-0 career advantage over Jasmine Paolina, winning on clay in Prague in 2018 and more recently, at the 2022 U.S. Open.

What does French Open winner receive?

Both the men's and women's singles champions will earn the same amount of money for winning the French Open.

First prize is just over $2.6 million (2.4 million Euros). The runner-up will receive just over $1.3 million (1.2 million Euros).