The Only Osaka Travel Guide You Will Need When Traveling to Japan in 2023

Osaka

Welcome to Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city and vibrant culture, food, and entertainment hub.

Located in the Kansai region of Japan, Osaka is known for its friendly locals, bustling street food scene, and lively nightlife.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive Osaka travel guide will help you make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

  1. Getting to Osaka
  2. When to Go
  3. How Many Days
  4. Getting Around
  5. Attractions
  6. What to Eat
  7. Day Trips
  8. Tips For Families

Getting to Osaka

Osaka is served by Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport (also known as Itami Airport). Kansai International Airport is the main international gateway to Osaka and is located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, about 50 km from the city center.

On the other hand, Osaka International Airport primarily serves domestic flights and is located closer to the city center, making it a convenient option for domestic travelers.

From Kansai International Airport, the easiest way to reach Osaka is by taking the JR Haruka limited express train, which takes around 50 minutes and costs 2,850 yen.

Alternatively, limousine buses and taxis are also available, although these are more expensive.

Several bus and train options are available from Osaka International Airport, including the Osaka Monorail and the Limousine Bus. Taxis are also readily available, but they can be expensive.

When to Go

The best time to visit Osaka is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant.

The cherry blossom season in Osaka usually occurs in late March to early April and is a popular time for visitors to see the beautiful pink blooms.

Summer (June to August) in Osaka can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F).

However, summer is also the season for many festivals and events in Osaka, including the Tenjin Matsuri, one of Japan’s biggest and most famous festivals, which takes place in late July.

Winter (December to February) in Osaka can be cold, often dropping to around 5°C (41°F). However, winter can be a good time to visit Osaka if you enjoy winter sports and activities.

The nearby mountains offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities and many winter illuminations and events in the city.

The best time to go to Osaka is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant.

However, if you’re interested in experiencing a particular festival or event, it’s worth planning your trip around that time, even if it falls outside of the ideal weather seasons.

How Many Days to Stay

NambaThe number of days you should spend in Osaka depends on what you want to see and do in the city.

However, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Osaka to explore the city’s major attractions and get a feel for its unique culture and atmosphere.

During a 3-4 day stay, you can visit Osaka Castle, stroll through the bustling streets of Dotonbori, and try some of the city’s famous street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

You can also visit some of the city’s many museums and historical landmarks, such as the Osaka Museum of History and the Shitennoji Temple.

If you have more time to spend in Osaka, there are many other interesting places to visit in the surrounding area.

For example, you can take a day trip to nearby cities like Kyoto or Nara to see their temples and shrines or explore Osaka’s vibrant nightlife scene in areas like Umeda and Shinsekai.

Ultimately, the length of your stay in Osaka will depend on your interests and travel itinerary. However, 3-4 days is a good starting point for exploring the city and experiencing some of its highlights.

Getting Around Osaka

Osaka has an excellent public transportation system that is easy to use and affordable.

The Osaka Metro system comprises eight subway lines, while the JR West railway operates local and express trains connecting Osaka with neighboring cities.

To use public transportation in Osaka, you can purchase an ICOCA card, a rechargeable smart card that can be used on buses, subways, and trains.

You can purchase an ICOCA card at any Osaka train station or convenience store.

If you prefer to explore Osaka on foot, the city has an extensive network of pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks.

Bicycles are also a popular way to get around Osaka, and many rental shops are located throughout the city.

Where to Stay in Osaka

Osaka has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular areas to stay in Osaka include:

Namba

Namba is a major transportation hub in Osaka, with easy access to many train and subway lines. This makes it an ideal location for exploring the city and getting around to other parts of the Kansai region.

It is known for its lively and bustling atmosphere, with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

The area is particularly famous for its food scene, with many popular restaurants and street food stalls serving local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Namba is home to several large shopping centers, including Namba Parks and Namba City, which offer many stores and boutiques.

The area also has many smaller shops and markets selling everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion.

It is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and entertainment venues open late into the night.

The area is particularly famous for its street performers and musicians, who add to the lively atmosphere of the neighborhood.

Umeda

Umeda

Umeda is Osaka’s business and commercial district, home to many high-end hotels and shopping malls. It’s a great area to stay if you want to be close to Osaka’s major transportation hubs.

Shin-Osaka

Shin-Osaka is located just north of Osaka’s city center and is a popular area for travelers who plan to take day trips to neighboring cities such as Kyoto or Nara.

Several hotels and guesthouses are located in Shin-Osaka, as well as convenient access to the shinkansen (bullet train).

Best Things to See and Do in Osaka

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is a major landmark and tourist attraction in Osaka. It was originally built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a powerful feudal lord who sought to unify Japan under his rule.

The castle has a long and complex history, with many changes and renovations over the years.

The castle’s current appearance dates back to 1931 when it was reconstructed after being destroyed in a fire.

The castle’s main tower stands 55 meters (180 feet) tall and is made of ferroconcrete, with an exterior covered in white plaster and gold leaf accents.

Visitors can explore several exhibits and displays showcasing Osaka and Japan’s history and culture inside the castle.

The exhibits include artifacts, artwork, and interactive displays that cover topics such as the castle’s construction, the life and legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and the history of Osaka as a major center of trade and commerce.

One of the highlights of a visit to Osaka Castle is the panoramic view from the top floor of the main tower, which offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

Visitors can also explore the castle grounds, which include several gardens and parks, as well as a moat and the castle’s defensive walls.

Throughout the year, Osaka Castle hosts several events and festivals, including traditional Japanese cultural events, music concerts, and light shows.

One of the most popular events is the Osaka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place in early April when the cherry blossoms are in bloom and draws large crowds of visitors.

Dotonbori

Dotonbori

Dotonbori is a lively and colorful neighborhood in Osaka, Japan, known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and shopping opportunities.

The area is located along the Dotonbori Canal, which runs through the center of the neighborhood and is lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

One of the most famous landmarks in Dotonbori is the Glico Man sign, a large neon sign featuring a running athlete that has become an iconic symbol of the neighborhood.

The sign is located above the Glico company’s headquarters and is a popular spot for taking photos and selfies.

Dotonbori is also known for its food scene, with many restaurants and street food vendors serving local specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include Kani Doraku, a seafood restaurant known for its giant crab sign, and Ichiran, a ramen chain with a cult following.

In addition to its food and shopping options, Dotonbori offers various entertainment venues, including theaters, arcades, and nightclubs.

The area is lively at night, with the neon lights and bustling crowds creating a festive and energetic atmosphere.

Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji

Shitennoji Temple is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 6th century. It is one of Japan’s oldest temples and is considered a significant cultural and historical landmark.

The temple was founded by Prince Shotoku, a prominent figure in Japanese history who played a key role in introducing and spreading Buddhism in Japan.

Prince Shotoku was a fervent believer in the Buddhist faith and believed that building temples and promoting Buddhism would bring peace and prosperity to the country.

Shitennoji Temple is designed in the classic Buddhist style, with a main hall, pagoda, and several smaller buildings and shrines.

The temple grounds also include a cemetery, a garden, and a museum that houses a collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.

One of the highlights of a visit to Shitennoji Temple is the five-story pagoda, which is one of the tallest and oldest pagodas in Japan.

Visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda for stunning views of the surrounding area.

Another notable feature of the temple is the Gokuraku-jodo Garden, a beautifully landscaped garden with a pond, waterfalls, and a small bridge.

The garden represents the Buddhist concept of paradise and is a peaceful and serene spot for contemplation and relaxation.

Throughout the year, Shitennoji Temple hosts several festivals and events, including a New Year’s Eve ceremony and a cherry blossom festival in the spring.

The temple is also home to a number of Buddhist rituals and practices, including meditation and sutra chanting.

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan is a theme park located in Osaka, Japan, that is part of the Universal Studios chain of theme parks around the world.

The park opened in 2001 and has since become one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Universal Studios Japan features a variety of attractions and entertainment options, including roller coasters, 3D rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets.

Some of the most popular attractions at the park include the new Super Nintendo World that includes Yoshi’s Adventure and Mario Kart rides. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is also a highlight of USJ, where visitors can explore the magical world of Harry Potter and ride on the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. The Jurassic Park ride is also popular and takes visitors on a thrilling adventure through a dinosaur-filled jungle.

The park also features a number of attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, such as Despicable Me, Spider-Man, and Transformers.

Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, including street performances, musicals, and parades.

Universal Studios JapanOne of the unique features of Universal Studios Japan is its food and beverage offerings, which include a variety of themed restaurants and snacks.

Visitors can enjoy everything from butterbeer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to giant turkey legs at the Jurassic Park area.

Universal Studios Japan is open throughout the year. It hosts several special events and festivals, including a Halloween Horror Nights event in the fall and a Christmas event in the winter.

The park can get crowded during peak seasons, so visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance and arrive early to avoid long lines.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Aquarium Kaiyukan

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world and a popular attraction for visitors to Osaka, Japan.

The aquarium is located in the Osaka Bay area and is home to over 30,000 marine animals representing over 620 species.

One of the highlights of the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is the massive Pacific Ocean tank, which contains over 5,000 cubic meters of water and houses a variety of sea creatures, including whale sharks, manta rays, and schools of fish.

Visitors can view the tank from several different angles, including a tunnel that allows them to walk through the tank and get up close with the marine animals.

In addition to the Pacific Ocean tank, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan features several other exhibits showcasing different marine environments from around the world, such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Aleutian Islands, and the Antarctic.

Each exhibit is designed to be immersive and educational, allowing visitors to learn about each region’s unique ecosystems and marine life.

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan also features several interactive exhibits and touch tanks, where visitors can touch and interact with sea creatures like starfish, sea cucumbers, and horseshoe crabs.

The aquarium also hosts a variety of shows and feedings throughout the day, allowing visitors to see the marine animals in action and learn more about their behaviors and habits.

Umeda Sky Building

Umeda Sky Building

The Umeda Sky Building is a unique skyscraper located in the Umeda district of Osaka.

The building is known for its striking design, which consists of two 40-story towers connected by a circular observatory known as the “Floating Garden Observatory.”

The Umeda Sky Building offers visitors breathtaking views of the Osaka skyline from its observation deck, which is located on the 39th floor of the west tower.

The observatory is designed to resemble a floating garden, with a circular open-air deck offering 360-degree views of the city and a beautiful indoor garden with a waterfall and ponds.

In addition to the observation deck, the Umeda Sky Building also features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

The basement level of the building is home to Takimi Koji, a retro-style alleyway that recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese street from the 1920s and 1930s.

Takimi Koji features a variety of restaurants and bars serving traditional Japanese cuisine and drinks.

Visitors to the Umeda Sky Building can also enjoy a range of other attractions and experiences, such as a virtual reality ride that takes them on a simulated flight over Osaka and a skywalk that allows them to cross a glass bridge between the two towers.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is a giant ferris wheel located in the Osaka Bay area of Osaka, Japan.

The ferris wheel stands at a height of 112.5 meters (369 feet) and has a diameter of 100 meters (328 feet), making it one of the largest ferris wheels in the world.

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel offers visitors panoramic views of Osaka and the surrounding areas from its 60 passenger cars, each of which can hold up to 8 people.

The ride lasts about 15 minutes and takes visitors up to 112.5 meters, offering breathtaking views of the Osaka skyline and Osaka Bay.

In addition to the ferris wheel, the Tempozan Harbor Village area where it is located offers a variety of other attractions and entertainment options for visitors.

The area is home to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is particularly popular in the evening, when the lights of the ferris wheel and the surrounding area create a beautiful and romantic atmosphere.

Visitors can also enjoy special events and activities throughout the year, such as seasonal illuminations and fireworks displays.

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

The Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Sumiyoshi ward of Osaka, Japan.

The shrine is one of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines, with a history dating back over 1,800 years.

The Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is dedicated to the three gods who protect sailors and fishermen, making it a popular destination for those seeking safety on the water.

The shrine’s main hall, which dates back to the 17th century, features a unique architectural style known as Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is characterized by a simple and elegant design with a thatched roof.

In addition to the main hall, the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine features a variety of other buildings and structures, including a smaller shrine dedicated to the goddess of food and a beautiful garden with a pond and walking paths.

Visitors can also participate in traditional Shinto rituals and ceremonies like purification rites and fortune-telling.

One of the most popular events at the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is the annual Sumiyoshi Matsuri, which takes place in the autumn and is one of Japan’s oldest and largest festivals.

The festival features traditional music, dance performances, and a parade of floats and portable shrines.

Osaka Museum of HistoryThe Osaka Museum of History is located in the Chuo ward of Osaka, Japan.

The museum showcases the history and culture of Osaka from ancient times to the present day, focusing on the city’s role as a center of commerce, culture, and innovation.

The museum’s main exhibit is the “History of Osaka” exhibit, which takes visitors on a chronological journey through Osaka’s history from prehistoric times to the present day.

The exhibit features interactive displays, models, and artifacts that bring Osaka’s past to life, allowing visitors to experience the city’s rich history and culture uniquely and engagingly.

Other exhibits at the Osaka Museum of History include displays of the city’s traditional festivals, local crafts and industries, and famous landmarks such as Osaka Castle and the Tsutenkaku Tower.

The museum also hosts a variety of special exhibits throughout the year, showcasing different aspects of Osaka’s culture and history.

One of the most unique features of the Osaka Museum of History is its location, which is adjacent to the ruins of Naniwa Palace, an ancient imperial palace that once stood on the site.

Visitors can explore the remains of the palace and learn about the history and culture of ancient Japan, adding an extra layer of depth and meaning to their museum experience.

Nakanoshima Park

Nakanoshima

Nakanoshima Park is a public park located on the island of Nakanoshima in the heart of Osaka, Japan.

The park is between the Dojima and Tosabori Rivers and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Created in 1891, Nakanoshima Park is one of the oldest public parks in Osaka and has been a popular gathering place for over a century.

The park features a wide variety of flora and fauna, including cherry trees, maple trees, and other seasonal flowers, providing a stunning display throughout the year.

In addition to its natural beauty, Nakanoshima Park also features a number of historic and cultural attractions.

The Osaka City Central Public Hall, a Western-style building constructed in 1918, is located within the park and is a popular venue for concerts, events, and exhibitions.

Another highlight of Nakanoshima Park is the Nakanoshima Rose Garden, which features over 3,700 roses in a variety of colors and species.

Visitors can stroll through the garden, enjoying the blooms’ sweet fragrance and vibrant colors.

Other attractions within Nakanoshima Park include a statue of Ryoma Sakamoto, a famous historical figure who played a key role in Japan’s Meiji Restoration, as well as a small pond and fountain area that provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and reflection.

Best Food to Try in Osaka

Osaka is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, with many dishes that are specific to the city. Here are some must-try foods to sample during your trip to Osaka:

Takoyaki

Takoyaki

Takoyaki is a popular street food in Osaka and other parts of Japan. It is a ball-shaped snack made of batter, diced octopus, green onions, and pickled ginger, cooked on a special grill called a takoyaki pan.

The dish was first invented in Osaka in the 1930s by a street vendor named Tomekichi Endo.

Since then, it has become a beloved part of Osaka’s food culture and can be found at street stalls, food carts, and restaurants throughout the city.

Takoyaki is typically served hot and topped with a variety of sauces and toppings, including takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.

It is a savory and satisfying snack that is perfect for on-the-go eating or as a casual meal.

One of the most popular places to try takoyaki in Osaka is the famous street food destination, Dotonbori.

Visitors can find numerous food stalls and vendors selling takoyaki and other Osaka specialties there.

Special takoyaki pans are available for those looking to make takoyaki at home.

While it may take a bit of practice to perfect the technique of making takoyaki, it can be a fun and delicious activity for food enthusiasts and families alike.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese dish that originated in the city of Osaka. It is a savory pancake made of batter, cabbage, and a variety of other ingredients such as pork, shrimp, squid, or vegetables.

The name “okonomiyaki” translates to “grilled as you like it,” reflecting the dish’s versatility and customizability.

Okonomiyaki is typically prepared on a large flat grill and can be found at restaurants and street vendors throughout Osaka and other parts of Japan.

The dish is often topped with a variety of sauces and condiments, including okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, dried seaweed, and bonito flakes.

There are two main styles of okonomiyaki in Japan: Hiroshima-style and Kansai-style.

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is made by layering the ingredients on top of each other, while Kansai-style mixes the ingredients together in the batter before cooking.

One of the best places to try okonomiyaki in Osaka is a restaurant called Mizuno, located in the Dotonbori area.

Mizuno has been serving delicious okonomiyaki for over 60 years and is renowned for its crispy, savory pancakes.

Kushikatsu

Kushikatsu is a popular Japanese dish that originated in Osaka. It consists of deep-fried skewered meats, vegetables, and seafood and is typically served with a dipping sauce.

Kushikatsu restaurants can be found throughout Osaka, with some of the most popular in the Shinsekai and Dotonbori areas.

These restaurants offer a wide variety of kushikatsu options, including chicken, pork, shrimp, fish, and vegetables such as lotus root and eggplant.

The skewered ingredients are coated in a batter made from flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs and then deep-fried to a crispy golden brown.

The dipping sauce, typically made with soy sauce, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, adds a tangy and savory flavor to the dish.

Kushikatsu is often served in sets, with customers able to order a variety of skewers and dips to try.

The dish is typically eaten with chopsticks and is often accompanied by a cold beer or other refreshing beverage.

While kushikatsu can be found at many restaurants throughout Osaka, there are also specialty kushikatsu shops that offer a unique and authentic experience.

Some of the most famous kushikatsu restaurants in Osaka include Daruma in the Shinsekai area and Kushikatsu Daruma in the Dotonbori area.

Ramen

Ramen

Ramen is a Japanese dish that has gained immense popularity around the world.

It is a soup dish that consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, and is often topped with various ingredients such as sliced pork, green onions, and bamboo shoots.

In Osaka, there are countless ramen shops serving up this beloved dish. Each shop has its own unique style and flavor, and many have developed a loyal following of customers.

One popular type of ramen in Osaka is tonkotsu ramen, which features a creamy and rich pork bone broth.

Other popular types include shoyu ramen (soy sauce-based), miso ramen (miso-based), and tsukemen (dipping noodles).

One of the best places to try ramen in Osaka is at a restaurant called Ichiran.

This chain of ramen restaurants has locations throughout Japan and around the world, but the original location in Osaka’s Dotonbori area is a must-visit for any ramen lover.

Ichiran is known for its individual “flavor concentration booths,” which allow customers to fully savor the flavors of their ramen in a private and focused environment.

Many specialty ramen shops in Osaka offer unique and creative takes on this classic dish.

Some popular examples include Menya Hanabi, which serves spicy miso ramen, and Ippudo, which offers a rich and savory tonkotsu broth.

Katsu

Katsu is a Japanese dish that consists of a breaded and deep-fried meat cutlet. The most popular type of katsu is tonkatsu, which is made with pork, but other variations include chicken katsu and beef katsu.

In Osaka, katsu is a beloved comfort food and can be found at many casual restaurants and food stalls.

One popular chain of katsu restaurants in Osaka is Katsukura, known for its high-quality pork and crispy breading.

To make tonkatsu, a thin slice of pork is coated in flour, dipped in beaten egg, and then coated in a layer of panko breadcrumbs before deep-fried until crispy and golden brown.

The result is a tender and juicy cutlet with a crunchy exterior. Tonkatsu is typically served with rice, shredded cabbage, and a savory sauce made from soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and other seasonings.

In addition to traditional tonkatsu, there are also many creative variations of katsu in Osaka.

For example, katsu curry is a popular dish with a tonkatsu cutlet with rich and flavorful Japanese curry sauce.

Katsu sandwiches, or katsu sando, are another popular variation, featuring a tonkatsu cutlet sandwiched between slices of soft white bread with a variety of toppings and sauces.

Sushi

Sushi

In Osaka, sushi is a popular cuisine that locals and tourists enjoy.

One famous sushi restaurant in Osaka is Endo Sushi, which has served high-quality sushi for over 100 years.

The restaurant is located inside the Osaka Central Fish Market, where you can see the fresh catch of the day being prepared for sushi and sashimi.

In addition to traditional sushi rolls, Osaka is also known for its unique types of sushi. One popular variation is pressed sushi, or oshizushi, made by pressing the rice and toppings into a rectangular shape using a wooden mold.

Another Osaka specialty is battera sushi, made with mackerel and vinegar-seasoned rice pressed into a square shape.

Osaka also has many sushi restaurants offering cooked or vegetarian options for those not fans of raw seafood.

Inari sushi, for example, is made by stuffing seasoned rice into pockets of deep-fried tofu, while kappamaki is a simple sushi roll filled with cucumber.

Street food

Osaka’s street food scene is famous for its variety and quality, with many vendors selling everything from grilled skewers to sweet treats.

Day Trips

While Osaka is a vibrant and exciting city, several day trip destinations are within easy reach. Here are some popular day trips to take from Osaka:

Kyoto

Kyoto

Known for its traditional temples, gardens, and historic districts, Kyoto is just a short train ride from Osaka.

Visitors can explore attractions like the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and the Gion district.

Nara

Nara

Another historic city close to Osaka, Nara is home to several important Buddhist temples and ancient sites, including the Todai-ji Temple and the Nara Park, where visitors can see wild deer.

Kobe

Kobe

This port city is famous for its beef, as well as its picturesque waterfront and historic neighborhoods.

Visitors can explore the Kobe Harborland, the Kitano district, and the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens.

Himeji

Himeji

Located about an hour from Osaka, Himeji is home to one of Japan’s most famous castles, the Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also explore the Koko-en Garden and the Engyo-ji Temple.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima

While a bit further from Osaka, Hiroshima is still within a day trip distance by train. Visitors can explore the Peace Memorial Park, the Hiroshima Castle, and the nearby Miyajima Island.

Tips for Families

Plan ahead

Before you leave for your trip, make sure to do some research on the attractions and activities that will be of interest to your family. Make a rough itinerary and map out the locations of the places you want to visit.

Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass

Japan Rail Pass

If you plan on doing a lot of traveling around Japan, it may be worth getting a Japan Rail Pass.

This pass allows unlimited use of most JR trains for a set period of time and can save you money if you plan on taking several trips.

Pack light

Osaka can be crowded, so it’s best to pack light and bring only the essentials. This will make navigating public transportation and moving around the city easier.

Stay in a family-friendly area

As mentioned earlier, Namba is great for families due to its central location and proximity to many attractions. Other areas to consider include Umeda and Tennoji.

Take advantage of family-friendly activities

Osaka has many family-friendly attractions, including Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and the Osaka Science Museum.

These are great places to take children and will keep them entertained for hours.

Try the local cuisine

Osaka is known for its delicious food, including takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Don’t be afraid to try something new and introduce your children to different flavors and types of cuisine.

Be mindful of cultural differences

Japan

Japan has its own unique customs and etiquette, so it’s important to be respectful and mindful of these when traveling with children.

For example, talking loudly on public transportation or eating while walking is considered impolite.

Osaka is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone, from historic landmarks and cultural attractions to delicious food and lively nightlife.

Its excellent public transportation system and many accommodation options make it easy to explore Osaka and make the most of your trip.

So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, add Osaka to your list of must-visit destinations in Japan.

Be sure to check out our vlog The Go To Family. Connect with us on InstagramTwitter, and Pinterest !

The Go To Family

We’re a family of five who travels the world! From the oldest to the youngest, all five of us are explorers by heart. Our desire is to never keep our feet planted anywhere too long.

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