Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, is a major urban hub in the Kansai region. With a history stretching back over a millennium, it has long been an important centre for commerce, culture and cuisine. Today, it remains a dynamic metropolis that blends historic landmarks with modern infrastructure, offering a wide range of experiences for visitors. We came here late last year during our tour of Korea and Japan.
One of the city’s most well-known attractions is Osaka Castle. Originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle played a significant role in the unification of Japan. While the current structure is a 20th-century reconstruction, it houses a museum that provides insights into the city’s feudal past. The surrounding park, particularly during cherry blossom season, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Dotonbori is another well-frequented district, known for its lively streets lined with restaurants, entertainment venues and bright neon signs. The area’s canal has long been a central feature, and a walk along its edge offers a glimpse into Osaka’s energetic nightlife. Food stalls and eateries serve well-known local specialties such as takoyaki (octopus-filled dough balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
Shitenno-ji Temple, founded in the 6th century, is considered Japan’s first Buddhist temple. Though rebuilt multiple times over the centuries, it retains its original layout. Visitors can explore the main hall, the five-story pagoda and the surrounding gardens, which provide a quiet contrast to the city’s busier districts.
Sumiyoshi Taisha is another historically significant site known for its distinct architectural style, which predates influences from mainland Asia. Its main shrine buildings, surrounded by a large park, offer a different perspective on the city’s past.
For those interested in modern attractions, Osaka’s Umeda and Namba districts serve as major shopping and business hubs. Umeda is home to high-rise buildings, department stores and Osaka Station, a key transit point in the region. The Umeda Sky Building’s observation deck offers panoramic views of the city. Namba is a focal point for shopping and entertainment, featuring department stores, arcades and the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market, where fresh seafood and street food can be found.
Tsutenkaku Tower is located in the heart of the Shinsekai district, one of Osaka’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Shinsekai, meaning “new world,” was designed in 1912 with a mix of Western and Japanese styles and is now bursting with restaurants and bars. The tower offers outstanding views from the fifth-floor observatory and a giant slide that takes you from the third floor to the ground in 10 seconds.
Tsutenkaku Tower was built in 1912 when the Shinsekai district was born, with design elements borrowed from the Eiffel Tower and the Tokyo Tower. This fusion made Tsutenkaku the tallest building in Asia at the time, standing at 64 metres tall, but it was damaged and dismantled during World War II. It was rebuilt in 1956 and now stands at 103 metres tall.
Universal Studios Japan is one of the city’s largest entertainment destinations. Featuring a mix of attractions based on popular movies, themed areas and seasonal events, it attracts visitors of all ages. The park’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World are among its most recognized sections.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, located in the Tempozan Harbor Village, is another prominent attraction, conveniently located right next to the cruise ship terminal. It houses marine life from various oceanic regions, with the Pacific Ocean tank featuring a whale shark as one of its highlights.
We had the whale shark on our radar when we planned the trip, this aquarium being one of only a handful of places in the world where you can see this magnificent creature in captivity. Better to see them in the wild, of course, but as we’re now unlikely to be doing any ocean diving, this was the best we could do. We were able to see the whale shark clearly, but as it was swimming constantly and vigorously it was difficult to photograph.
The nearby Tempozan Ferris Wheel, looking for all the world like so many other Ferris wheels in cities around the globe, provides an aerial view of the Osaka waterfront.
It was in this area that we spotted something we hadn’t seen before – or at least, not in this form – a dedicated area for smokers that can only be described as a cage.
Public transportation in Osaka is well-developed, with an extensive subway and train network that connects major districts and neighbouring cities. The Osaka Metro system is a common mode of travel within the city, while the JR and private rail lines provide access to regional destinations. Kansai International Airport serves as the primary gateway for international and domestic flights.
Accommodations in Osaka range from business hotels and guesthouses to high-end establishments. The city’s variety of lodging options caters to different travel styles, whether you’re looking for convenience near transit hubs or a quieter stay in residential neighbourhoods.
Osaka’s seasonal variations influence travel experiences. Spring brings cherry blossoms, particularly in parks such as Kema Sakuranomiya and Osaka Castle Park. Summer is marked by festivals like the Tenjin Matsuri, featuring boat processions and fireworks. Autumn sees colourful foliage in locations such as Minoo Park, while winter offers illuminations throughout the city and milder weather compared to other parts of Japan.
Osaka is also a convenient base for exploring nearby destinations. Kyoto, with its historic temples and traditional districts, is easily accessible by train. Nara, known for its free-roaming deer and the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, is another short trip from the city. Kobe, located west of Osaka, offers a coastal setting that can be reached in as little as 20 minutes by train.
Overall, Osaka offers a mixture of historical sites, contemporary attractions and diverse culinary offerings. Whether exploring its landmarks, enjoying local food, or using it as a base for regional travel, the city provides a variety of experiences for visitors. This is just a quick overview as we only had a day and a half here, but we plan to return for a longer stay towards the end of this year.
I’ve never been to Japan. Looks like I need to change that! Great city overview.
Go if you can, Japanese culture is mesmerizing and you would enjoy it.