A city of 1000 colors, halfway between tradition and modernity, Osaka represents Japan in all its splendor. From ancient temples to the glittering neon lights of bustling neighborhoods, every corner of this Kansai city reveals a captivating surprise. Wonder is everywhere, as Osaka abounds in animation and electrifying vibrancy. Explore its alleys, taste its unique flavors and let yourself be carried away by its effervescence. How can you do it? By following these 15 must-dos in Osaka, of course!
1. Osaka Castle, a Japanese architectural marvel
It's impossible to miss Osaka Castle, as it's such an astonishing sight from a distance. A Japanese temple set against a backdrop of skyscrapers: a truly unusual sight! As we shall see, the city often surprises, and always in a good way.
This late XVIᵉ century edifice, often destroyed and rebuilt over the years, irrevocably beckons visitors... Up close, the spectacle is just as astonishing, due to the multiple reconstructions the temple has undergone. Some parts are very recent, while others, such as the moat and ramparts, remain from the past. A fascinating museum awaits you inside, before you enjoy the tranquility of the splendid surrounding gardens.
Discover Osaka's highlights , including its castle, as well as the city's hidden gems by booking this private guided tour .
2. Shi Tennō-ji temple, Osaka's Buddhist jewel
Discover one of Osaka's historic jewels: the Shi Tenno-ji temple, imagined in the VIᵉ according to the wishes of Prince Shotoku Taishi. Dedicated to the Four Heavenly Kings, protectors of Buddhist horizons, it embodies resilience in the face of the ravages of time. A pure splendor that immediately plunges you into the Japan of yesteryear!
Among the marvels to be seen are :
- the pavilions
- the majestic five-storey pagoda,
- the large, magnificent gates,
- the centuries-old torii.
Finally, enjoy a peaceful stroll through its traditional garden, Gokuraku Jodo no Niwa, in a serene atmosphere.
3. Namba district, Osaka's hottest spot
Gone is the square ambience of Tokyo, welcome to the Japanese city that moves, sways and sees life in color. The Namba district, with its key artery Dotonbori Street, immerses you in the hustle and bustle of Osaka! Here, it's all stores, restaurants, parties, street singers and street food. It's all set in a mix of effervescence and color, just the way we like it. Entertainment abounds on this lively street, much to the delight of the Japanese themselves and visitors on vacation in Japan. We recommend this Namba bar crawl, which takes in three hidden local bars and delicious local food and drink.
4. Universal Studios Japan, the must-see theme park
Keep the fun going at Universal Studios Japan, a theme park inspired by the original Orlando version. Different themed areas let you get the most out of this popular park:
- Hollywood,
- New York, San Francisco
- San Francisco,
- Jurassic Park,
- Waterworld,
- Harry Potter
- Universal Wonderland.
Add to this temporary animations and the recently opened Super Nintendo Worldzone, the new addition in 2021, and you've got a recipe for a theme park that's as complete as it is entertaining!
Tip by Petit Futé : don't hesitate to arrive well before opening time, as there can already be long queues in front of the gates in the morning. We especially recommend that you buy a pre-booked full-day ticket in advance right here : it will help you avoid the queues.
5. Sumiyoshi Taisha, Osaka's Grand Shrine
Don't leave Osaka without visiting Sumiyoshi Taisha, the majestic Shinto shrine located in the south of the city, whose ancestral history dates back to 211. Its unique sumiyoshi-zukuri architecture embodies an authentic Shinto style, and the honden pavilion is even a National Treasure.
Witness to the spiritual beginnings before the arrival of Buddhism, you'll marvel at its Sorihashi, nicknamed the "drum bridge", and its four buildings in a row dedicated to the marine deities and to Empress Jingu Kogo. It's a typical Japanese marvel, and a real shame not to visit! You can also attend festive events such as the Sumiyoshi Matsuri.
6. Visit the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum
We promised you something unusual, and here it is! The Cup Noodle Museum exists in Osaka. At the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, you can discover the history of Cup Noodles, a pure Japanese invention, while taking part in workshops to prepare your own ramen to take away. In the 50s, Momofuku Ando wanted to invent a dish that was easy to eat, complete and inexpensive, in order to cope with the difficulties of the post-war period. The gamble paid off, as even today, ramen remains a staple in Japan, reaching beyond the country's borders to make a name for itself internationally. That's right! The instant noodle is an art of living in Japan: why not dedicate a museum to it?
7. A panoramic view of Osaka from the Umeda Sky Building
Another Osaka must-see is theUmeda Sky Building, an architectural icon north of Osaka with a contemporary design. At 173 meters high, it consists of two towers linked by a circular observatory on the top floor. Admittedly, you'll need a strong heart, but the view is well worth the effort. The"Floating Garden Observatory" offers a spectacular 360° view of the city, while you walk along the"Lumi Sky Walk", recreating a phosphorescent Milky Way. An absolutely magical experience!
The experience is enhanced at nightfall, offering one of the most exceptional observatories in this Kansai city. You've heard the expression "having your head in the stars"? That's exactly what you'll feel here! So go here to book your ticket to the Umeda Sky Building.
8. Den Den Town, high-tech in the spotlight
If you're a geek or an electronics enthusiast, Den Den Town is the place to be! Nicknamed the "electric village", it's a paradise for high-tech enthusiasts. Located in Nipponbashi, this electronic district is best known for the lively streets of Denki no machi, where effervescence reigns supreme. From geek treasures and video games to manga and collectible figurines, this is the ideal hunting ground for bargains in a unique atmosphere.
9. Kaiyukan Aquarium, a great family outing
Head for the Tempozan district to discover Kaiyukan, one of the world's largest aquariums. Children love it, but adults will also marvel at the tunnel of fish, the whale shark - the undisputed star of the place - and the thousands of other residents of this huge aquarium. Take the whole family on a voyage of discovery along the Pacific coast, thanks to the immense basins and the amazing marine animals that inhabit them.
10. Tennoji Zoo, a family visit to Osaka
Another great family outing is the Tennoji Zoo, founded in 1915 in Tennoj Park. Home to over a thousand animals of 230 species, it is distinguished by its meticulous reproduction of the animals' natural habitats. From the darkness preserved for the only kiwi in the Japanese archipelago to the vast enclosures housing elephants, reptiles, polar bears and koalas, diversity is everywhere! This delightful zoo boldly combines environmental education, animal diversity and family fun: a great address for your family holiday in Osaka!
11. The Shinsekai district, Osaka's "new world
Located near Tennoji Park, the Shinsekai district was created in the early XXᵉ century as a visionary project. Once uninviting, it has been successfully renovated, revealing itself today as an original part of the city. Its alleyways are packed with restaurants serving local specialties such as kushikatsu, deep-fried kebabs. The famous Tsutenkaku Tower, erected in 1912, is one of the symbols of the district's economic development.
Retro stores, neon signs and a wide variety of entertainment add color to your Shinsekai experience. As you stroll through its lively streets, you'll have the chance to sample street food made in Osaka, while immersing yourself in a neighborhood that's not overrated, still halfway between its industrialization and its desire to enhance its appeal. Interesting stuff!
Onthis guided tour, you'll sample dishes at 5 local restaurants, visit a street stall, an izakaya, a specialty restaurant, a gastrobar and a tachinomiya to discover Osaka's best dishes.
12. Spa World, an unusual experience in Osaka
If someone tells you that Spa World is an amusement park dedicated to well-being, what do you think? Well, it's true! Here, relaxation takes center stage in Roman baths, Finnish saunas and Japanese onsen. From pools to waterslides, you'll enjoy yourself before indulging in moments of true plenitude. It's a totally new place, combining what most people aspire to: more relaxation, more leisure! From zone to zone, you're taken on a journey through the world and the best that civilizations have invented in terms of well-being. The hardest thing about Spa World is finding the courage to leave at the end of the day..
13. The Osaka National Museum of Art, stunning architecture
Nestled between the Tosabori and Dojima rivers on the island of Nakano-shima, the Osaka National Museum of Art boasts stunning glass and steel architecture. Inside, an artistic treasure trove of 7,000 masterpieces awaits you, including photographs, sculptures, paintings and prints. In this place dedicated to art, theessence of traditional Japanese art rubs shoulders with the great canvases of Picasso, Monet and Cézanne. The exceptional diversity of the works on display makes this Japanese museum a must-see for art lovers.
14. The teamLab Botanical Garden, Osaka's astonishing splendor
Experience a new and unusual adventure in the city of Osaka, by interacting with... a garden! That's right! At night, the interactive animations are even more astonishing. The recently reopened Nagai Botanical Garden, managed by the artistic collective teamLab, invites you to discover its 1,200 plant species. Near the central pond, you can't help but appreciate the serenity of the gardens. As night falls, teamLab's unique artistic project comes to life, fusing nature and art through light shows. Absolutely stunning!
Digital technology blends harmoniously with nature, creating an immersive experience in which you become an integral part of the work. Click here to book your ticket for the teamLab botanical garden.
15. Discover local gastronomy
Osaka, a vibrant culinary land, offers a feast for the taste buds, as evidenced by the city's many streetfood stalls and restaurants. Start the culinary festivities with okonomiyaki, a flat "Japanese omelette" topped with an abundant sauce. This Osaka specialty is eaten everywhere, but you'll find excellent ones in the Dotonbori district. Continue with takoyaki, skewers of octopus fritters covered in sauce: will you dare? Perhaps you'd prefer kitsune udon, a bowl of noodles with a slice of fried tofu? Others might like to try ikayaki, a grilled squid pancake, for a change from our Breton galettes.
The real question is: who will dare to try fugu, the puffer fish/poison served as sashimi? No one will blame you if you don't try it! Instead, enjoy hakozushi, excellent sushi artfully arranged in boxes. Let's end this festival of unusual food for us Westerners with taiko manju, a delicious pastry filled with azuki, a Japanese red bean. Bon appétit!
Where to stay in Osaka?
The best areas to stay in Osaka are Namba, Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi in the south. They offer a combination of dynamism, shopping and attractions. Umeda and northern Osaka, centered around the train station, immerse you in a sophisticated urban ambience, with some great views over the city. More affordable sleeping options can be found in Tennoji and Shinsekai, south of the city center.
- The best hotel for Westerners
Tailored to our desires for comfort, Hotel Monterey La sœur Osaka has the big advantage of offering a French restaurant menu. Breakfast is available in both Japanese and Western versions, to the delight of visitors. Add to this quality services and a beautiful view of the river, and you've got a great address, located near Osaka Castle, which you can book here .
- The best location
Conveniently located close to the city center and with spacious rooms, the Cross Hotel Osaka is an address not to be missed, and can be booked in just a few clicks here. Here, small touches are everywhere, making for a most pleasant stay. Considered one of the best hotels in Osaka, it's well worth a visit.
- The best view
The view from the Imperial Hotel Osaka is most enchanting in spring, when the cherry trees are in bloom. It's almost tempting to just stand there and admire the beautiful scenery. The rest of the time, every evening, you're treated to a beautiful view, including from the restaurant serving succulent French cuisine. Tempted? Click here for rates and availability!
What to do in Osaka in 1 day
Is Osaka your first visit to Japan? Good news: your arrival in Osaka gives you the opportunity to discover one of the world's most unusual airports, designed to withstand earthquakes.
Start your visit early in the morning by exploring Osaka Castle. Spend around two hours immersing yourself in the history of feudal Japan and enjoying panoramic views from the ramparts. Then head to the Namba district to discover Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi. We recommend taking 2-3 hours to stroll along the canal, admiring the neon signs and getting lost in the lively alleyways, while sampling local specialties. In the afternoon, head to Umeda, devoting an hour or two to shopping in the department stores and enjoying a panoramic view from theUmeda Sky Building.
What to see in Osaka in 3 days
You've seen most of Osaka in one day, but there are still 1001 treasures waiting to be discovered. Here we go for two more days!
Day 2
On your second day in Osaka, start by exploring the lively Tennoji district. You'll have the chance to visit the Tennoji Zoo, especially if you're traveling with the family. Next, head to Tennoji's neighboring Shinsekai district, steeped in the retro atmosphere of the Taisho era. Among other things, the famous Tsutenkaku Tower stands out in particular, between two tastings of kushikatsu - breaded skewers - in one of the many local restaurants. In the afternoon, head to Sumiyoshi Taisha, an ancient Shinto shrine, for a peaceful spiritual getaway to round off the day. The magnificent structures and tranquil gardens invite you to relax and let go.
Back to the hotel, to recharge your batteries before a busy third day!
Day 3
On this third day, it's off to immerse yourself in Osaka's cultural history, with a visit to the National Art Museum. Here you'll discover a diverse collection of works, from photography to sculptures, including masterpieces by well-known Western artists. We then invite you to join us at the recently reopened Nagai Botanical Gardens, run by the teamLab art collective. Explore the botanical gardens by day and, if you can, stay to discover the interactive art installations at night. All that's left to do is round off the day with some local specialties in Dotonbori!
Not quite as wise as its cousin Tokyo, Osaka is a melting pot of traditional and modern Japanese culture. Immersing yourself in the local culture and Japanese way of life offers a 100% change of scenery that will stay with you for a long time. Nearby, don't hesitate to visit other superb sites, such as Himeji and its castle, or the charming traditional canals of Kurashiki.
Tempted by a vacation in Osaka? Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurance here, and leave with peace of mind!
