Curious about what to do during your trip? This blog reveals the best tips and tricks for enjoying your visit, from charming hotels to must-see attractions that you really don’t want to miss. Voilà, at your service! Everything to make your journey through Japan even more delightful.
How to Get to Osaka
→ Ready to Explore Osaka? Discover Must-See Attractions and Exciting Activities!
Where to Stay?
- Hotel the Lutheran: Small but cozy. The rooms are spotless, as expected in Japan. Located just a short walk from Osaka Castle and right next to a subway station, its location is perfect. Prices start at just 40 euros per night for two people.
- Hotel OMO7 Osaka: Mentioned in our Kyoto blog, OMO hotels are part of Hoshino Resorts and are always top choices in Japanese cities. Why? Excellent locations, breakfast included, and free tours organized by the hotel. Located in the vibrant district of Shinsekai, OMO7 also boasts a hot spring in its garden. Prices start at 145 euros per night for two people.
- Mad Cat Hostel Osaka & Bar: Hostels may be few in Japan, but those that exist are great. If you love cats, you’ll feel right at home at Mad Cat Hostel, where they roam freely. Enjoy a friendly atmosphere, great beds, and complimentary earplugs. A bed in a four-person room costs around 20 euros per night.
Top 10 Things to Do
Embrace the Neon Lights in Dotonbori
As mentioned, the city feels grand and bustling. Throngs of people greet you as you exit the metro station, and neon lights are dazzling everywhere. The best thing to do? Embrace it. Head to Dotonbori, the liveliest and busiest street around. From moving 3D crabs to live music acts, Dotonbori never disappoints. The entertainment value is high. Everywhere you look, you see and hear something captivating. The best time to visit? When the sun has just set. If it rains—like it did for us—the moody atmosphere is fantastic for photos. Dotonbori is also home to countless restaurants, arcades, and shops.
Shopping in the City
Time for some good shopping. The city has a trendy vibe, and street style is everywhere. Trends are invented here, and fashion statements are made. One of our favorite neighborhoods is America-Mura, a clear reference to the U.S. You’ll find many vintage shops, cute coffee places, and street art, with plenty of streetlamps showcasing the culture. Some favorite stores include Aura, Pigsty, Jam, and Jetrag. Interested in diving into the nightlife? America-Mura is also home to the city’s most popular nightclubs.
The Iconic Castle
Symbolic of the area, this impressive castle towers above the city, sitting on its own island. You’ll find long lanes, a wide moat, and beautiful trees—especially stunning during cherry blossom season and autumn. While the city can be busy and contemporary, here you’ll find serenity and history. Wander through the castle park—the interior is less remarkable—and enjoy a drink with a magnificent view of the castle from the rooftop of Mirazai (open from 3:00 PM).
Go-Karting Through the Streets
A must-do and so much fun. Kart through the streets dressed in a costume of your choice while getting to know the city.
Dining Scene
The food scene here is incredibly famous in Japan, and you absolutely must try two dishes: takoyaki (a Japanese ball-shaped snack made from a batter filled with octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion) and okonomiyaki (a savory Japanese pancake). These street food dishes are found on every street corner—this is not an exaggeration. A good place for street food is Kuromon Ichiba Market. Want a different dining experience? Visit Dotonbori Riverside Grill Wonder, where you can enjoy good burgers in a friendly pub atmosphere.
Spa World
Japan has practically mastered the art of bathing, and onsens are woven into the culture. It’s no surprise that you’ll find numerous excellent spa options, including Spa World. This is a perfect spot to relax and recuperate from each day’s hustle. Here, you’ll find traditional onsens (gender-segregated) and a swimming paradise (mixed-gender), making you feel like you’ve traveled the world—from Rome to Atlantis, every theme comes alive here. As one of the largest hot spring complexes globally, boredom is not an option at Spa World. Entrance is ¥1,500, plus additional fees for sauna use (¥800).
Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel
For ¥600, you can enjoy a spectacular view over Dotonbori river. Ride the Ferris wheel at the end of the afternoon, located in the street known as “the kitchen of Japan.”
Universal Studios Japan
Looking for action? This large amusement park is easily accessible from central Osaka via the JR Yumesaki Line. The park features various “worlds,” including Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, and Spiderman. Our favorite? Super Nintendo World, where you can relive all the classic Nintendo games (hello, ’90s kids!). You can book tickets most affordably through Klook or GetYourGuide for about €50 per person. Also, as is typical in all Japanese theme parks, you can purchase additional express passes for each attraction. Be sure to book tickets early—about one to two months in advance—as Universal Studios is hugely popular.
**Order your tickets online: Book your Universal Studios Pass for Osaka
Izakaya Toyo
We’ve already mentioned Osaka’s incredible food scene, but Izakaya Toyo deserves special mention. Featured in the Netflix show “Street Food,” this place has become world-famous and often has long lines. But it’s worth it. Try Toyo’s now-iconic grilled tuna cheeks—grilled using a blowtorch—or tuna with salmon roe.
Hozenji Yokocho
A yokocho is a narrow alley, typically referring to a lane filled with izakayas (traditional Japanese restaurants) and bars. Although Hozenji is close to Dotonbori, it feels like a different world; charming and narrow, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. A plethora of tiny restaurant options awaits you. Don’t miss the small temple—Hozenji, named after the street it resides on—that’s worth a visit.
Plan Your Trip to Osaka During Your Japan Journey
Craving More Japanese Adventures? Check Out Our Other Must-Read Articles About Japan!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What is the best time to visit Osaka?
The best time to visit Osaka is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
- What foods must I try in Osaka?
In Osaka, you must try takoyaki and okonomiyaki as they are iconic street food dishes unique to the city.
- How do I get around Osaka?
Osaka has an extensive public transport network, including subways, buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate the city.
- What are top attractions in Osaka?
Top attractions in Osaka include Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Spa World, and Universal Studios Japan.
- Is English widely spoken in Osaka?
While Japanese is the primary language, many people in tourist areas in Osaka can communicate in basic English.
