Discover Osaka, Japan: Exciting Tours with Keytours Vacation

Discover Osaka's Wonders

Osaka, Japan’s vibrant city of culture and cuisine, pulses with an energy all its own. Famous for its lively streets, mouthwatering food scene, and warm, welcoming locals, Osaka offers a more relaxed yet equally exciting contrast to Tokyo's hustle. Stroll through the neon-lit alleys of Dotonbori, feast on local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, or dive into history at Osaka Castle. From the bustling markets of Kuromon Ichiba to the futuristic skyline of Umeda, Osaka combines a dynamic urban vibe with a rich cultural heritage that captivates every traveler.

Current Weather

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Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Osaka is predominantly divided into wards which are referred to as 'ku' in Japanese. Kita-ku, located in the North is primarily the business and commercial area. Minami-ku in the south is principally the shopping and entertainment hub of the city. From the outset, Osaka seems like a futuristic city which is in part due to the impressive modern architecture that lines the streets. However, more recently, it has been looking back to its past – now restoring beautiful parks and public areas that showcase a long history of excellence and attention to detail. The people of Osaka are often called “kuidaore,” meaning that they become poor because of their extravagance in eating and drinking. Shopping and eating are certainly the preferred activities here.

Useful information

Population:

City: 2,592,413 (2024) Metropolitan Area: 18,967,000 (2024)

Currency:

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Emergency Info:

Ambulance/Fire Brigade: 119
Police: 110

Opening Hours:

General business hours are from 7.30am to 4.30pm and facilities are usually closed on Sundays. Banks are open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 3pm. Times may vary depending on stores and banks.

Do & See

Dotonbori

Dotonbori is one of Osaka's most popular areas. You can find almost everything here; theatres, bars, nightclubs, cafés, restaurants, you name it. All day and night, entertainment guaranteed!

Hozenji Temple

Tucked away behind a busy street, just a few blocks away from Dotonbori canal, lies the tiny and quaint 17th century Buddhist temple, Hozenji. It is a rare space of peace and tranquility in one of the city's busiest districts, and should not be missed.

Kema Sakuranomiya Park

In Japan the cherry blossom or Sakura is celebrated for its beauty and symbolizes renewal, life as well as ephemerality. In this park along the Okawa River you can watch the spectacle of about 5000 cherry trees blooming in early spring. The best time for picnics amongst the magnificent white and pink trees is late March or early April.

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum

Have you ever wondered where this delicious and easy to make Ramen comes from? Then visit this Cup Noodle Museum and learn more about the inventor and the history of the popular dish. As well as free audio guides, the place offers ramen workshops for the whole family.

Museum of Housing and Living

The exquisite museum offers visitors an immersive experience into Osaka's Edo (9th floor), Meiji (8th floor) and recent Showa periods. Life-size recreations of Osaka's ancient streets and scale models are complete with multiple original artifacts dating back to the respective eras. One of the museum's main attractions is the opportunity to try on and be photographed in a traditional kimono against the backdrop of a historic Japanese street.

Nanba Grand Kagetsu

If you're looking for some fun, the Nanba Grand neighborhood is your place to go. There is a multitude of entertainment centers, theaters, shops and you are guaranteed a fantastic vibe at this busy place.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the biggest aquariums in the world, and has a great variety of fish, and even a few whale sharks. The Japanese word Kaiyukan, literally means "Playing in the Sea Pavilion".

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is the city's most famous landmark. It was originally built in 1583 by the order of Hideyoshi Toyotomi but suffered several destructions throughout history. Rebuilt in 1931 with the external appearance created by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the Japanese Government designated the main tower as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property years later, in 1997.

Dining

Endo Sushi

Touted as one of the best sushi restaurants in Osaka, Endo Sushi uses tried and tested methods of culinary mastery dating back to the early 1900s to create authentic and traditional Japanese cuisine. There are some interesting delicacies here at the Central Market branch such as horse mackerel and conger eel, so be sure to come with a sense of adventure.

Fujiya 1935

This contemporary restaurant fuses the best of Japanese cuisine with the likes of Italian, Spanish and other well renowned European cooking styles. The set menu changes regularly so it would be wise to check in advance what is being served on the day. The staff here are very friendly and the ambience is pleasant but take some time to pick out a nice outfit for this place as the dress code is rather strict.

Fukutaro

The main store of Fukutaro is considered to be a must-try in Osaka. This is a great place to try okonomiyaki, a pancake-like dish often topped with meat, fish, vegetables and a corresponding sauce to accompany it such as aonori or Japanese mayonnaise. There are numerous variations to choose from and if you can't decide, there is the grill-it-yourself option which is always fun.

Gataro

Hidden under the Hankyu railway, this cozy and nostalgic izakaya restaurant is a popular haunt amongst the locals. Typically in these Japanese-style pub-restaurants they serve grilled fish prepared whilst you wait, and its highly recommended to give it a go. Unlike most Izakaya restaurants, Gataro has an English menu, although that is about the extent of the English here.

Hajime

This classy restaurant equipped with not one but three Michelin stars has been described as 'mind-blowing', 'exceptional', 'artistic' and 'delicious' by some of the most discerning critics in the game. Hajime is a great place to go if you want something extraordinary. Every dish here is a like a piece of art and every desert, a dream come true.

Harukoma Sushi

Located in Japan's longest shopping arcade Tenjinbashisuji is the fabled Harukoma Sushi, recognisable if only by the line leading up to its inconspicuous front door. Lines move fast however, and the superb quality of the sushi and sashimi served here are certainly worth the wait. Price to quality ratio is among the best in town. Be sure to try the unagi which is a local favourite.

Ichiran

The Ichiran chain of ramen restaurants are purported to be some of the best in the country and perhaps even further afield. So if you like noodles, this is the place for you. There are numerous variations to choose from, including the local favourite Tonkotsu Ramen which comes with a special sauce made in house.

La Baie

La Baie offers exceptional seafood and meat dishes with an imaginative, eclectic flair. They are recipients of a Michelin star, a 5-spoon and fork of the Michelin Guide Kyoto Osaka Kobe 2011. For dinner, men are requested to wear a jacket and and women are expected to be dressed in formal attire.

Cafés

LiLo Coffee Roasters

Praised as one of the best coffees that you can find in Osaka, the coffee beans at LiLo Coffee Roasters can be enjoyed in one of the three branches throughout the city or you can take them home to have whenever the mood strikes. Load up the cup with milk and sugar for an unfathomably frothy cappuccino or savour the delicate roasted notes by brewing LiLo's carefully selected coffees black as is.

Melbourne Coffee, Craft & Cider

This Aussie style cafe away from the centre of Osaka is worth the pilgrimage if you are into large quantities of eggs, bacon, avocados and tomatoes. There are of course other options available at Melbourne Coffee, Craft & Cider as the name would suggest. The cider and the coffee here comes in from down under and the fresh local produce used to fill up their freshly made toasties is clearly of a very high quality.

Micasadeco & Cafe Osaka

At Micasadeco & Cafe Osaka visitors can indulge in mouthwatering Japanese soufflé pancakes that are a favourite amongst tourists and locals alike. The brunch menu here is vast but if you are into pancakes, look no further. Sweet, savoury, stuffed with cheese, doused in coconut custard...the options are endless.

Ninja Experience Cafe Osaka Dotonbori

Everyone has wished or at least wondered what is like to be a Ninja at some point in their life. At the Ninja Experience Cafe Osaka Dotonbori, the dream comes to life! This cafe is great for kids of all ages and grown ups are sure to join in with the exciting ninjitsu lessons where students learn how to use ancient Japanese weapons and techniques whilst dressed up as ninjas. There are several options available for groups and individual families including set menus and drinks packages.

Planet 3rd

Planet 3rd is a cute, hip little café within the Hearton hotel which showcases some cool decor in a nice, light atmosphere. They serve a full American breakfast between 7am and noon and have free internet access.

Rue d’Or

You can find the French Bistro Rue d’Or at the exquisite 5-star St. Regis hotel. Here you can enjoy a tasty croissant with a café au lait in the morning or a larger meal later in the day accompanied by a glass of red all the way from France. There is even a new selection of homemade ice creams and sorbets on offer that have been expertly crafted by the in-house deserts specialist.

Bars & Nightlife

Balabushka

For those with a hankering to shoot some pool or sling some darts, Balabushka is the spot. Here you can compete with friends as well as strangers for primacy in one of the epic tournaments that take place regularly here long into the night. If and when you get tired, you can take a pew on the comfy sofas in the loft and enjoy a stiff drink with a side of nachos.

Club Ammona

If you are looking for a more luxurious nightlife experience, check out this self proclaimed adult playground where the absurdly surreal can become real. Between live performances and theme parties at Club Ammona you can get beauty treatments, haircuts and even your nails done within. Give yourself a new look and drop directly into the action to show it off at its freshest.

Club Joule

Club Joule is a Trance lovers' paradise. The club is very popular amongst the young but of course, seasoned ravers are more than welcome. Besides hard house, techno and trance you can also wind away to hip-hop and rap until the early morning at this massive neon-lit club.

Club Life

Hip Hop, Reggae, House, you name it. Club Life is a hot meeting point among the young party crowd. Here you can dance until the early morning hours, share a story with some friends over drinks and meet new people. Prices are pretty reasonable and the owner, along with the rest of the staff are very attentive.

Explosion

For those looking for an open-minded and foreigner friendly gay-bar, Explosion is the place to be. Drop in to find a dedicated party crowd having a good time on the dance-floor or hang out with some friends at the bar.

Ghost

This hazy club blares out everything from R’n’B to Hip Hop to House, giving everyone the chance to move to their favourite beats. International guests are warmly welcomed within and the staff will take good care of you. Note that the party usually starts late here, so best drop by around midnight.

Misono Building

The second and third floors of this somewhat dilapidated building in the Ura-Namba district hide some of the most unique and interesting bars in Osaka. The long narrow halls are lined on either side by tiny, intimate venues, many of which have an interesting theme such as retro video games and some of which hold live events such as quiz nights and theatrical performances.

Murphy's Irish Pub

Murphy's is a popular and well established Irish bar which attracts an eclectic mix of Japanese and Western clientele. For all sports enthusiasts, their 100 inch screen is the ideal way to watch international and domestic sports such as rugby and football. Private parties can also be organised ahead of time and Murphy's caters to all group sizes and budgets.

Shopping

Abeno Harukas

The biggest skyscraper in Osaka also comprises one of the largest department stores in all of Japan. Over some 100,000 square meters spaced out in a 300 metre high tower, you can find stores from well-known brands as well as high quality interior design shops. Make your way up to the 60th floor and enjoy Osaka from above on the observation deck where the sweeping views of Osaka show the city off in a very different light.

Amerika Mura

This shopping area just to the West of the Shinsaibashi shopping district is a temple for fashionistas as well as those with a penchant for vintage clothes, shoes and records. The shops here sell items of clothing that are inspired by American culture through the ages and feature a number of second hand shops where the bargain hunters roam. America Mura is also worth visiting at night as it turns into a vibrant location with loud music and good smells surrounding Sankaku Koen Park, the focal point of the area.

Flea Market at Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine

There are some 30 to 40 stalls worth a visit at the Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine in Umeda and they are often set up around the temples. At this flea market held twice a month (1st and 3rd Friday of every month) you can find works of art, antiques and other such fine suitcase stuffers. While it may not be a large market, the items on sale here are usually of very high quality.

Grand Front Osaka

This shopping mall is a great stop for bargain hunters. Here you can get the latest fashion, high-end electronics and modern furniture all for an absolute steal. A number of restaurants and cafes provide refreshments after a long day of shopping. You won’t leave this place empty handed.

Hankyu Department Store

Japan’s largest chain of department stores is based in the heart of the Umeda District at the Hankyu Terminal. The interior is particularly impressive and modernised throughout, just as the other Hankyu stores across Japan. The brands on offer include both International and Japanese retailers such as GAP, Miyake, Nicole Farhi, Kenzo and Cerruti. If you go there, do not miss the food market on the two bottom floors which has become known for its high quality produce and service.

Hep 5 Department Store

There are over 150 stores in the “hip” Hep 5 shopping mall in the Umeda district. Most of them are fashion retail shops that suit young costumers, but people of all ages can find something of interest at this department store. There is a Disney outlet and a Snoopy Town shop for the children, all kinds of clothing stores (some of them providing discounted items), a food hall and much more. The greatest attraction in Hep 5 has to be the giant Ferris wheel sticking out of the middle of it from which you can get an outstanding view over the Umeda district of Osaka.

Kintetsu Department Store

This mall situated in the Tennoji Ward showcases everything from clothing, cosmetics and food to electrical appliances, bedlinen and furniture. Amongst international top brands there are also interesting traditional Japanese items such as kimonos and ceramics to be found. Up on the ninth floor of Kintetsu, an art gallery which hosts regular events and art exhibitions opens its doors to the public to show off the creative works of the city.

Kuromon Ichiba

Kuromon Ichiba, otherwise known as the 'Black Gate' of the Enmyoji Temple is a huge marketplace that showcases the fishy delicacies of Osaka. Some 150 shops offering fresh fruit, healthy vegetables and meat line the 580 metre-long arcade. There are also some restaurants in the area for those looking to try a slice of the action in the moment.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Osaka is pleasantly temperate all year round but it is probably preferable to avoid the humidity and the heat of the summer months which can become uncomfortable. The city can also get quite crowded from June through August. The best times to go are the spring and autumn months when temperatures and crowds have subsided. Towards the end of March, the cherry blossoms come to life for one beautiful week until their delicate petals fall a week later at the start of April.

Passport/Visa

For stays of up to 90 days, visitors that hold a valid passport from 67 countries including most of Europe, North America and Oceana as well as some countries in South Asia and South America are not required to apply for a visa before entering Japan. Upon arrival, you may be asked to fill out a short visa application form on which you must state the planned length of your trip. Your passport must be valid for the entirety of your stay. For stays of longer than 90 days and for work or study visas, be sure to check the visa requirements specific to your country ahead of time.

Kansai International Airport

Kansai International Airport is located 50 kilometres south of Osaka. One of the easiest ways to travel between Osaka and the airport is by train. You can also choose between different bus services and shuttles. Airport limousine buses go to more specific places and hotels in Osaka. A journey to Osaka Station takes approximately one hour via train and around 40 minutes by bus or car. There are a lots of taxis outside the airport and several ride-hailing apps including JapanTaxi, Grab and Go that operate in the area. There is also a high speed ferry service that takes you to Kobe Airport.

Public transport

The subway provides the fastest and most efficient way of getting around Osaka. Lines operate from early in the morning until midnight. There are a number of travel passes for Osaka and the Kensai region available from the Osaka Info website. A one-day pass is valid for unlimited trips on subways, the tram line and city buses. Multiple Ride Cards can be used until their fare expires.

Taxi

Taxis are a very convenient way of getting around Osaka as they are numerous and run through the day and night. You can call one via one of the many taxi companies in the city such as Toho Taxi Co, hail one in the street or use one of the ride-hailing apps such as Go, Uber or Grab to organise quick and easy transport.

Electricity

Voltage: 100 V Frequency: 50/60 Hz Power sockets: type A / B

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Osaka expensive? Japan, on the whole, is an expensive country to visit and live in but Osaka is much more affordable than Tokyo. Is Osaka safe? Generally speaking, yes. Japan is a very safe country to visit, however, Osaka does have the highest crime rate in all of Japan. Try to stay out of the Kamagasaki district to avoid any unwanted attention. What is Osaka known for? Osaka is the second largest city in Japan and as such, has a very long and interesting history. It was once even the capital of the country before Tokyo was established. It is also home to the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan.

Pharmacy

Considering that Osaka is the third biggest city in Japan, you can easily find a pharmacy here. Medical care in Japan is considered some of the best in the world and the Universal Healthcare system throughout the country ensures good health for all inhabitants. Perhaps the largest and most comprehensive drugstore chain in Osaka is the Sugi Drugstore, which offers a wide array of OTC (Over the Counter) medicines as well as non-essential items. Pharmacies in Japan are referred to as 'Yakkyoku' and stock prescription medicines that require the consent of a doctor for purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Osaka for first-time visitors?

Osaka is known for its vibrant urban culture and historical landmarks. Don't miss Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city with beautiful gardens. Visit Dotonbori for its neon lights, street food, and entertainment. Universal Studios Japan offers thrilling rides and attractions. The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest in the world, showcasing diverse marine life. Lastly, explore the Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views of the city.

What is the best time of year to visit Osaka?

The best time to visit Osaka is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn make these seasons particularly beautiful. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild but can be chilly.

How many days should I plan to spend in Osaka?

A 3 to 4-day stay in Osaka is ideal to explore the city's main attractions and enjoy its vibrant culture. This allows time to visit key sites like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan, as well as experience local cuisine and shopping. If you plan day trips to nearby cities like Kyoto or Nara, consider extending your stay.

What are the best ways to get around Osaka?

Osaka has an efficient public transportation system, including subways, trains, and buses. The Osaka Metro is the most convenient way to travel around the city. Consider purchasing an ICOCA card for easy access to public transport. Taxis are available but can be more expensive. Biking is also popular, with rental services available throughout the city.

What local foods should I try while visiting Osaka?

Osaka is a food lover's paradise, known for its street food and local specialties. Try takoyaki, delicious octopus-filled balls, and okonomiyaki, a savory pancake with various toppings. Kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers, and yakiniku, grilled meat, are also must-tries. Don't miss the fresh seafood at Kuromon Ichiba Market.

Are there any cultural events or festivals in Osaka that I should be aware of?

Osaka hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year. The Tenjin Matsuri in July is one of Japan's most famous festivals, featuring boat processions and fireworks. In spring, the Osaka Castle Park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. The Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine hosts the Sumiyoshi Matsuri in July, celebrating traditional music and dance.

What are some recommended day trips from Osaka?

Osaka's location makes it perfect for day trips to nearby cities. Kyoto, known for its temples and gardens, is just a short train ride away. Nara, home to free-roaming deer and historic sites, is another popular option. Kobe offers a scenic harbor and delicious beef, while Himeji is famous for its stunning castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Trips

Kyoto Hiroshima and Osaka Explorer

South Korea and Japan Explorer

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