Osaka

Osaka is Japan’s third largest city, which has a unique identity characterised by a penchant for good food and lively fun. The 16th-century merchant city grew into an industrial powerhouse in the 20th century and has nowadays been transforming into a progressive modern arts hub. A plethora of galleries and futuristic architecture have been popping up, most prominently, the landmark Umeda Sky Building with its 2 towers linked by a sky bridge.

Osaka is home to some of Japan’s most interesting cultural attractions, including the National Bunraku Theatre which shows extraordinary traditional puppet shows. The city is roughly divided into 2 centres, north and south, and is easily navigable. Kita (north) Osaka is the main business district, accessible from Osaka and Umeda stations. Minami (south) Osaka is home to many shopping centres, entertainment and nightlife venues, accessible via Namba and Shinsaibashi stations.

What to see & do in Osaka

Where & what to eat in Osaka

Many famous dishes from Japanese cuisine originated in Osaka, and it’s said that you can eat better here than anywhere in the country. Osaka is a place where food doesn’t need to be fancy to be enjoyed. Dishes like okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake), takoyaki (octopus balls), kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood and vegetables) are great examples of the casual but delicious snacks and meals waiting for you in Osaka.

10 Best Local Dishes from Osaka
Osaka is a with a blossoming tradition of gastronomy, so it’s easy to discover the best local dishes with the help of our list. The depth of Japanese cuisine is savoured in style at high-class traditional Japanese restaurants known as ryotei and kappo....
10 Most Popular Areas for Foodies in Osaka
The best areas for foodies in Osaka are brimming with life, mouthwatering food, quirky shops and stalls and great atmosphere....
10 Best Local Restaurants in Osaka
Osaka has long been regarded as a foodie paradise in Japan – it's even called the nation's kitchen. Thanks to...

Where to shop & what to buy in Osaka

Osaka has a fantastic fashion scene and you will never run out of places to shop here. Underground arcades, multistory malls, hipster boutiques, and tourist-friendly marketplaces are just some of the shopping experiences that await you in Osaka. The coolest shopping area in Osaka is probably America Mura (American Village) thanks to the thousands of hip boutiques selling items from all over the world. For electronics, head to Den Den Town...

10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Osaka
Our guide to the best places to go shopping in Osaka reveals a city that offers a wide range of quality merchandise catering to all budgets. Steeped in rich merchant history, Osaka has a population that loves to shop. From the warrens...
10 Best Shopping Malls in Osaka
In Osaka, the largest city in the Kansai region, new shopping malls and commercial complexes pop up one after another to compete as the city's best shopping destinations. People of all ages love to visit Osaka for the shopping, great...

Where to go & what to do at night in Osaka

Osaka has an amazing nightlife, with something for everyone to enjoy. Head to Shinsaibashi street for the best selection of cool bars and clubs, neon-lit scenes, and a hive of activity all night long. This is the central thoroughfare of an area called America-mura (American Village) owing to the many foreign influences that have shaped the region. Umeda is another popular area for nightlife in Osaka, with many izakayas and bars...

10 Best Bars, Live Music and Nightclubs in Osaka
Osaka is known as a city of people who love good food and good fun. There are countless nightspots to discover, from high-class cocktail bars to hip live music venues and tiny, hole-in-the-wall whiskey bars. If you're looking for something a...
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Osaka
Central Osaka is famous for its wide range of nightlife experiences, some of which are suitable for those travelling with children. Once the sun goes down, it's time to take in the famous neon signs of Dotonbori, spectacular night views...

Useful information

Information about Osaka covers what you need to know to make your travel experience a great one, from getting around to currency and special tips. When it comes to local travel, the Metro is the way to go. Public transport passes include the JR Pass, ICOCA card, PASMO card and Suica card. At least once while here, you should take a boat trip down the canal that runs through the...

10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Osaka
Osaka is the largest city in Kansai and has countless popular neighbourhoods. Taking a walk through these areas of the city, you'll quickly notice the powerful spirit of its famously enthusiastic people. As one of Japan's ancient cities, Osaka boasts...
10 Interesting Villages and Sights near Osaka
Osaka, Japan's second largest city, is the main hub of the Kansai region and there are plenty of places to...
10 Most Popular Festivals and Events in Osaka
Osaka was once the dominant centre of Japan and it still has a strong commercial culture and many traditional festivals...