Osaka top attraction
Osaka, often referred to as Ōsaka in Japanese, holds the distinction of being Japan’s second-largest metropolitan area, following in the footsteps of the colossal Tokyo. For centuries, it has remained a formidable economic force within the Kansai Region. In ancient times, Osaka bore the name Naniwa and played a pivotal role as Japan’s capital city before the Nara Period. Notably, it was the very first capital ever known in Japan. During the 16th century, Toyotomi Hideyoshi selected Osaka as the site for his imposing castle, a decision that could have potentially solidified the city’s status as Japan’s political capital. However, this destiny was thwarted when Tokugawa Ieyasu intervened, bringing his government to distant Edo (Tokyo) and extinguishing the Toyotomi lineage following Hideyoshi’s demise.
Universal Studios Japan: Universal Studios Japan (USJ) holds the distinction of being the inaugural Universal Studios theme park in Asia, debuting its doors in 2001 within the vibrant Osaka Bay Area. Over time, the park has undergone expansions and now stands as Japan’s second most frequented amusement park, trailing closely behind Tokyo Disney Resort. Situated just beyond the park’s entrance lies Universal Citywalk Osaka, a bustling shopping complex encompassing numerous hotels, a plethora of dining establishments, and an assortment of stores. Here, you can find shops dedicated to Universal Studios memorabilia and Osaka-themed souvenirs, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Timings: The timings to visit this theme park is from 9am to 8pm.
Location: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
Getting there: The entrance to Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is conveniently located near Universal City Station, just a short walk away. Travelers can reach USJ from Osaka Station in about 15 minutes by direct train, or they can take connecting trains with a transfer at Nishikujo Station. For those arriving at Kansai Airport, there are convenient train and bus options. USJ is also accessible by overnight buses from various Japanese cities. Additionally, a ferry service called “Captain Line” connects USJ to the Osaka Aquarium, offering a unique transportation option.
Minami: Situated in the vicinity of Namba Station, Minami represents one of Osaka’s two primary urban hubs. Renowned as the city’s premier entertainment district, Minami boasts an array of dining and shopping options. Accessibility to this district is excellent, with three different train companies, three subway lines, and a highway bus terminal serving the area.
Timings: There is no particular timings to visit this place.
Location: A major city centre in Tokyo
Getting there: Minami, centered around Namba Station and the Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT), benefits from a comprehensive transportation network. This area is well-connected by numerous train and subway lines, as well as buses. Namba Station comprises various station buildings and platforms, such as Nankai Namba Station, JR Namba Station, and Kintetsu’s Osaka-Namba Station. Additionally, the Midosuji, Yotsubashi, and Sennichimae subway lines have stations in the vicinity. Most airport and highway buses conveniently stop at the Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT), which shares a building with JR Namba Station.
Osaka aquarium:
Nestled in the Tempozan Harbor Village within Osaka’s bay area, you’ll discover the awe-inspiring Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. This remarkable aquarium offers a captivating journey into the diverse ecosystems found along the Pacific Rim. Visitors can explore marine life showcased in a series of carefully curated tanks, each dedicated to a distinct region of the Pacific Rim. At the heart of it all lies the impressive central tank, a staggering nine meters deep, housing the beloved whale shark, which takes the spotlight as the aquarium’s main attraction.
Timings: The timings are from 10 am to 8pm
Location: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Getting there: Osaka Aquarium is located at Osakako Station on the Chuo Subway Line.
Tenjin festival: The Tenjin Festival in Osaka holds a prestigious position among Japan’s top three festivals, alongside Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and Tokyo’s Kanda Matsuri. This vibrant celebration is dedicated to the Tenmangu Shrine and pays homage to its revered deity, Sugawara Michizane, who is known as the patron of scholarship. With roots dating back to the 10th century, the festival is a cherished tradition observed annually on the 24th and 25th of July.
Osaka castle: The construction of Osaka Castle commenced in 1583, and it was built upon the grounds previously occupied by the Ishiyama Honganji Temple, which had been razed by Oda Nobunaga thirteen years prior. This magnificent castle complex includes not only the main tower but also secondary citadels, gates, turrets, formidable stone walls, and protective moats. Within the Nishinomaru Garden, which once formed the “western citadel,” visitors can enjoy a picturesque lawn adorned with 600 cherry trees, a charming tea house, the historic Osaka Guest House, and delightful views of the castle tower from a lower vantage point.
Timings: The timings to visit this attraction is from 9 am to 5 pm.
Location: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
Getting there: For the most convenient access to Osaka Castle, it is advisable to enter through the Otemon Gate located at the southwestern corner of the park. The nearest subway station to reach the castle is Tanimachi Yonchome Station, accessible via the Tanimachi and Chuo subway lines. Alternatively, if you prefer to use the JR train system, you can reach Osaka Castle by getting off at Osakajokoen Station on the JR Loop Line. This station is just a short 10-minute ride from JR Osaka Station and costs 170 yen for a one-way ticket.
Sumiyoshi Taisha: 
Sumiyoshi Taisha, situated in Osaka, is renowned as one of Japan’s ancient shrines, boasting a history that dates back centuries. It serves as the central and most well-known among the vast network of Sumiyoshi shrines scattered throughout Japan. As you approach the main shrine precinct, you’ll be greeted by the captivating Sorihashi Bridge, notable for its graceful and elevated arch over a serene pond.
Timings: The timings to visit this place is 6 am to 65 pm.
Location: 2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan
Getting there: Sumiyoshi Taisha is conveniently situated in the southern part of Osaka, just a short walk from Sumiyoshi Taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line. You can easily reach it by taking a 10-minute ride for 210 yen one way from Nankai Namba Station using local trains. Please note that faster train categories do not make stops at Sumiyoshi Taisha Station. Another option is to travel by the Hankai Tramway from Tennoji. Simply disembark at either Sumiyoshitorii-mae or Sumiyoshi tram stop, which are both a brief 15-minute journey for 230 yen one way from Tennojieki-mae, and just a few steps away from the shrine’s entrance.
Osaka museum of history:
The Osaka Museum of History, established in 2003, is housed in a tall structure located adjacent to NHK Osaka, right across the street from Osaka Castle. One of the notable features of this building is its top floors, which provide fantastic views of the castle. Inside the museum, the exhibits are designed to be visually engaging, featuring several large models. These exhibits take visitors on a journey through the city’s history, commencing in ancient times when Osaka held the distinction of being Japan’s inaugural capital and the site of the Naniwa Palace. The historical narrative continues, concluding with displays depicting the vibrant shopping arcades of the early Showa Period.
Timings: The timings to visit this museum is 9:30 am to 5 pm.
Location: 4 Chome-1-32 Otemae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0008, Japan
Getting there: The Osaka Museum of History is conveniently situated just opposite the southwest corner of Osaka Castle Park. For easy access, visitors can use Tanimachi Yonchome Station, which is served by both the Tanimachi and Chuo subway lines and is just a short five-minute walk from the museum. Alternatively, those arriving by JR train can reach the museum via Morinomiya Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line, although it may require a 20-30 minute walk from this station to reach the museum.
Shinsekai:
Shinsekai is a unique district in Osaka with a fascinating history. Originally developed before World War II, it experienced a period of neglect in the decades that followed. One of the notable attractions in Shinsekai is Spa World, a massive bath complex featuring numerous pools on both European and Asian-themed floors. It’s worth noting that the gender allocation of the floors alternates each month, and visitors enjoy bathing in their natural state. The bathwater is sourced from deep underground natural hot springs, providing a rejuvenating experience for guests.
Timings: The timings to visit here is 10 am to 8 pm.
Location: 2 Chome-5-1 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Getting there: Shinsekai is conveniently accessible from several nearby stations, including Shin-Imamiya Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line, Dobutsuen-mae Station on the Midosuji and Sakaisuji subway lines, and Ebisucho Station on the Sakaisuji Subway Line. This makes it easy for visitors to reach this unique district in Osaka.
Shitennoji temple:
Shitennoji is renowned as one of Japan’s ancient temples and holds the distinction of being the first temple constructed under the authority of the Japanese government. While visitors can explore the outer temple grounds at no cost, there is an admission fee to access the inner precinct, the Gokuraku-jodo Garden, and the treasure house. Inside the inner precinct’s pebble-covered courtyard, notable attractions include a five-storied pagoda that visitors can enter and climb, as well as the Main Hall (Kondo) where a statue of Prince Shotoku, enshrined as Kannon, can be found. The entry charge is 300 yen.
Timings: The timings to visit this place is 8:30 to 4:30.
Location: 1 Chome-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan
Getting there: Shitennoji is conveniently accessible from Shitennoji-mae-Yuhigaoka Station on the Tanimachi Subway Line, just a short walk away. Alternatively, visitors can reach it with ease by taking a ten-minute walk north from Tennoji Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line.
Minoo park:
Minoo Park, located on the outskirts of Osaka just to the north of the city, is a tranquil wooded valley. It’s particularly famous for its stunning autumn foliage, making it one of the prime spots in the Kansai Region to experience the vibrant colors of fall in a natural setting. Usually, the foliage reaches its peak beauty in the latter half of November. Similar to Tokyo’s Mount Takao, Minoo Park offers a spacious natural recreational area, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling urban atmosphere of Osaka.
Timings: There is no particular timing to visit this place
Location: 1-18 Minookoen, Minoh, Osaka 562-0002, Japan
Getting there: You can begin your visit to Minoo Park with a short walk northward from Hankyu Minoo Station. If you’re coming from central Osaka, start by taking the Hankyu Takarazuka Line at Hankyu Umeda Station, which will take about 15 minutes. Upon arrival at Ishibashi handai-mae Station, make a smooth transfer to the Hankyu Minoo Line, and in just 5 minutes, you’ll reach Minoo Station. This entire one-way journey typically lasts around 25 minutes and costs 280 yen, but it’s important to note that it’s not covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Asahi beer suita brewery: Asahi, one of Japan’s major beer producers, has its origins in Osaka. The brewery is renowned for its internationally recognized product, Asahi Super Dry, a light and crisp lager introduced in 1987. You can take a brewery tour at the Suita Factory, which typically lasts around 90 minutes and includes a tasting session. Please note that English tours are available on specific days. Additionally, the factory features a gift shop where you can purchase various Asahi products and unique memorabilia that may not be found elsewhere.
Timings: The timings are between 10 am to 3 pm.
Location:Suita,Osaka
Getting there: To visit the brewery, you can enter through the public entrance gate located on the northwest side of the factory grounds. It’s approximately a ten-minute walk from Suita Station, which you can reach via the JR Kyoto Line (9 minutes, 190 yen from Osaka Station) or the Hankyu Senri Line (15 minutes, 240 yen from Umeda Station).
Kuromon market:
Kuromon Market is a vibrant covered public market located in the Minami area of Osaka. It stretches for approximately 600 meters along Sakaisujidori Street. What makes this market particularly charming is that many of its shops not only offer larger quantities of food for later consumption but also serve smaller portions that can be enjoyed on the spot. You can find a wide variety of foods here, including grilled seafood like crab legs and oysters, yakitori, sea urchin, sushi, eel, seasonal fruits, and the popular street food, takoyaki. In total, the market boasts around 150 shops that primarily specialize in fish, meat, and fresh produce. Additionally, you can explore other shops offering traditional sweets, affordable clothing, and homeware. It’s a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts in Osaka.
Timings: The timings depends upon store to store but timings are from 8 to 6.
Location: 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan
Getting there: Kuromon Market is conveniently located just a short walk from Nipponbashi Station, which is served by the Sennichimae and Sakaisuji subway lines. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Namba Station, it’s about a ten-minute walk to reach the market.
Osaka expo 70 park: The Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, situated approximately 30 minutes north of Osaka’s city center, is a sprawling public park. Following the conclusion of the World Expo, the site was transformed into the Expo Commemorative Park and made accessible to the public. The once-grand pavilions were replaced with newly planted forests, gardens, expansive lawns, and plazas adorned with vibrant flowering plants and trees. The park boasts around 5000 cherry trees, particularly along the southeastern plazas, making it one of Osaka’s most beloved spots for cherry blossom viewing when they typically bloom in early April. 260 Yen is the entry fee.
Timings: The timings to visit here is from 9:30 to 5 and is closed on wednesdays.
Location: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan
Getting there: The Expo ’70 Park and Expocity are conveniently situated adjacent to Bampakukinenkoen Station on the Osaka Monorail. There are various routes for accessing the park, with one option being to take the Midosuji Subway Line from central Osaka (such as Tennoji, Namba, Umeda/Osaka, and Shin-Osaka stations) to Senri-Chuo Station, where you can transfer to the monorail. The journey from central Osaka to the park typically ranges from 30 to 50 minutes and costs approximately 500 to 700 yen. It’s a convenient way to reach this beautiful park and entertainment complex.
Tenma:
Tenma is a vibrant neighborhood situated to the east of Osaka’s Kita district. It’s famous for housing the Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, which gives the neighborhood its name, as well as the bustling Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street. Additionally, Tenma is well-known for its lively nightlife scene. The shopping street has a charming local atmosphere and serves as a hub for residents to purchase a wide range of goods, including groceries, clothing, shoes, books, medicine, snacks, and everyday items. Fashion items are attractively priced, although they tend to be of average quality. Moreover, you’ll find numerous eateries and cafes in the area, making it a dynamic and bustling neighborhood to explore.
Timings: The timings are 9 to 5.
Location: A neighbourhood in kita district.
Getting there: The Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street begins at Tenjimbashi-suji Rokuchome Station (Tanimachi and Sakaisuji subway lines), runs south past Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, and ends at the Tenjinbashi Bridge. Tenmangu Shrine is conveniently close to Minamimorimachi Station (Tanimachi and Sakaisuji subway lines) and Osaka Temmangu Station (JR Tozai Line). Many bars and restaurants are located near the north exit of Tenma Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line.
Osaka bay area: The Osaka Bay Area consists of modern city districts situated on artificial waterfront islands and peninsulas, developed to accommodate the city’s expansion. These districts offer a range of tourist attractions, including museums, theme parks, observatories, and shopping centers. Additionally, the area is home to Osaka’s domestic and international port facilities.
Getting there: Tempozan Harbor Village and Sakishima Island are linked to central Osaka via the Chuo Subway Line. This subway line has a stop at Osakako Station, which is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from Tempozan Harbor Village. The line continues to Cosmosquare Station on Sakishima Island. From Cosmosquare Station, an elevated train known as the New Tram provides transportation around Sakishima Island and ultimately connects to Suminoekoen Station on the Yotsubashi Subway Line.
Tennoji:
Situated in the southeastern part of central Osaka, the Tennoji and nearby Abeno districts are notable for Abeno Harukas, one of Japan’s tallest skyscrapers. Tennoji Station serves as a major transportation hub in Osaka, with multiple JR and subway lines running through it. Just across the street, you’ll find Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station. With approximately seven malls located in close proximity to the station, there is an extensive array of shopping options available in this area.
Timings: There is no particular timings to visit here.
Location: 10-45 Hidenincho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0055, Japan
Getting there: JR Tennoji Station is a major transportation hub on the Osaka Loop Line, offering direct JR connections to various destinations. Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station, located nearby, is the terminal station for Kintetsu trains to Asuka and Yoshino. Both stations are conveniently situated for travelers, with easy access from several key locations in Osaka.
