When planning a Japan trip itinerary, you must include Osaka in your list. It’s the third biggest city in Japan, known for its rich heritage and centuries old culinary culture.
Aside from incredible food to offer, Osaka also has many other authentic things you can find for the first time in Japan.
So, what kinds of things to do in Osaka are you excited to try? Before packing your traveling necessities for your most-awaited Japan trip, check out our recommended Osaka attractions below!
1. Marvel at the Great Osaka Castle
When looking for places to visit in Osaka, you cannot miss out on the Osaka Castle. It’s a major city landmark, a reminiscence of the Japanese feudal past.
The historic site was built in the late 16th century by a warlord named Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Throughout the centuries, the castle was destroyed and rebuilt several times.
Around the castle, you can stroll relaxingly around the picturesque park. The view is especially pleasing during the Sakura and Autumn season.
2. Take a Relaxing Stroll in Nakazakicho
While Osaka is mostly modern, there are still several neighborhoods that preserve the city’s authentic atmosphere. Near the busy area of the Shinkansen, you can find Nakazakicho.
If you want to wander and have a quick, relaxing time, you can stroll around this neighborhood. You’ll find Osaka lost in time in the rows of vintage shops along the street.
During the calming, nostalgic walk, you may also find artisan boutiques and cozy cafes that offer unique Japanese delicacies.
3. Calm Your Mind at Tamatsukuri
Not all the interesting things to do in Osaka have to do with entertainment. Sometimes, travelers like to experience the tranquil side of the city.
Once exploring Nakazakicho, you can head to Tamatsukuri. It’s a neighborhood near Buddhist temples and onsen waters. The traditional atmosphere can ease your tired mind and body.
For history buffs, Tamatsukuri is the hot spot. If you love to learn more about the temples, you can step into them and bask in the tranquil spirituality of these sites.
4. Explore the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Are you a big aquatic life enthusiast? During your adventure in Osaka, you must visit the Osaka Aquarium to see a vast collection of marine life from all around the world.
Osaka Aquarium houses many marine life, such as whale sharks, nurse sharks, manta rays, and eagle rays.
To enjoy the stunning aquarium view at its fullest, you can visit at night. The soft and dim lighting helps elevate the atmospheric marine life inside one of the biggest aquariums in the world.
5. Throw Away Bad Luck at Namba Yasaka Shrine
Continue your spiritual adventure in Osaka by visiting the Namba Yasaka Shrine. As a traveler, you’ll likely find the giant lion’s head stage fascinating.
The shrine has the authentic Osaka’s vibrant spirit that mixes seamlessly with the serenity and echo of the past. At this site, you can find reposefulness after exploring the busy streets of Osaka.
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6. Visit the Instant Ramen Museum
Hearing ramen makes anyone think of Japan instantly. As a ramen lover, your trip will not be complete without a visit to the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum.
It’s essentially a cup noodle museum. Pretty unique, right? Aside from marveling at the massive number of iconic ramen, you can also decorate your instant ramen cup here.
7. Have a Retro Time at Shinsekai
Let’s enter the new world by heading to an iconic place in the Tennoji Area. In Japanese, this site is called Shinsekai, which means “new world”.
Strolling around Shinsekai is perhaps one of the most exciting things to do in Osaka. Shinsekai has a unique retro atmosphere that can make you feel like glimpsing a whole different world.
While having a good time walking around Shinsekai, you can stop at one or more food stalls to try Osaka delicacies that can energize you to continue your walk around the area.
8. See Osaka from High Places
Among places to visit in Osaka, high observatories may be the most popular for tourists. From the highest point of view, you can see Osaka attractions below in a different light.
Visiting the highest buildings in Osaka is a different experience from Osaka sightseeing. To make a point, you can head to the Umeda Sky Building Observatory, which stands 170 m above the ground.
If you want to go higher, you can visit Abeno Harukas Observatory, with the highest point at 300 m. Is it too high?
You can always choose Tsutenkaku Tower, which only stands 91 m high, to see Osaka from above. The usual observation deck here is indoors, but the top deck is outdoors.
To test your bravery, you can stand at a section with a glass floor while looking directly below. Whichever you fancy, Osaka’s highest observatory buildings can give you a thrilling experience.
Well, those are all the recommended things to do in Osaka to fill up your itinerary. From visiting the tranquil temple to seeing Osaka from the highest point, you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.
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