Osaka Travel Guide: The 15 Best Things To Do In Osaka Japan

Looking for the best things to do in Osaka? Discover a myriad of activities and attractions in this vibrant city, offering a blend of traditional and modern experiences for all types of travelers.

Located in Western Japan, Osaka is the second-largest metropolitan area in Japan after Tokyo. It’s a popular tourist destination in Japan that attracts tourists from around the globe. Japan visitors should not miss Osaka along with Tokyo and Kyoto.

On Honshu Island, Osaka stands out as a must-see and port city that is just as amazing as Japan’s more touristy areas. There is plenty to do in Osaka, from touring Buddhist temples to eating local food to just admiring the neon lights.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Osaka:

1. Go Kart Around the City as a Video Game Character

No, this isn’t a joke. Go karting around the city dressed as your favorite video game or anime character is by far the funniest Osaka activity! After a quick safety briefing, you get dressed up and hit the streets near Namba station. We’re not sure how this is legal, but it’s honestly one of the coolest things to do in Osaka!

2. Legoland

There are Lego-themed amusement parks throughout the world, each with a unique and fascinating location. If you’re traveling with children to Osaka, Legoland is one of the best places to visit. You and your children will have a delightful time at Legoland. The endless toy tables and Lego bricks will keep kids entertained for hours. The park also has a 4D cinema and plenty of rides. Make sure you stop by the Legoland Discovery Center for some gifts and toys to take home as souvenirs.

3. Dotonbori District

There is no way to experience Osaka without tasting and trying its street food. Osaka’s Dotonbori District should be on your list of places to visit if you’re a real foodie. It’s not only the entertainment and activities that make Dotonbori famous, but also its street food, which is so delicious that just thinking about it should excite food lovers.

Which dishes should you try? A few of the most delicious street food meals are Takoyaki, authentic Ramen, and Yakitori. Dotonbori pretty much has something for every palate, from sweet to savory, and even unique foods like grilled octopus. If you’re wondering what to do in Osaka, then the Dotonbori district is a must-see and one of the best things to do in Osaka! You can visit it at any time of the day or night.

4. Nishiki Beach

Add a trip to Nishiki Beach to your list of things to do in Osaka if you’re looking to relax on the beach. Nishiki offers jet skiing and other water sports that can enhance your experience. Nishiki Beach is also known as Nishikinohama Beach Park, and for good reason.

You can also barbecue and picnic with friends and family in the park section in addition to the beach. To enjoy some sun and fun activities at Nishiki Beach in Osaka, you should visit during the summer, since it is only open from July 1 to August 31.

5. Universal Studios Japan

In Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is one of four Universal Studios theme parks around the world that you and the whole family will enjoy. Similarly to other Universal Studios parks, the park’s main attractions are rides based on famous movie franchises.

In addition to rides and activities, there are two popular themed mini worlds based on Harry Potter and Jurassic Park. The park also offers enchanting activities featuring the beloved cartoon character Curious George for the younger children. One of the best things to do in Osaka for Cinema lovers is to visit Universal Studio Park!

6. Hattori Ryokuchi Park

Located in the northern part of Osaka, Hattori Ryokuchi Park consists of several steep and exquisite hills as well as mountainous terrain. When compared to the booming nightlife of Osaka or other Japanese cities, the setting and aesthetics of this park are a bit rustic. Children will enjoy playing on the playgrounds and enjoying the elegant fountains.

This park is a favorite place for locals, as well as tourists, to relieve stress and achieve ultimate relaxation. For those seeking more thrills, tennis courts and horse riding centers are readily available. There are so many activities to experience and enjoy at the park that it usually stays open at all times.

7. Osaka Castle

Based on its true significance in uniting the now close-knit nation of Japan, Osaka Castle is the perfect place to visit for a real cultural and historical experience. Constructed in 1583, it is one of the oldest of its kind. It was destroyed shortly afterward by the Tokugawa. This means that the castle you see today was reconstructed in 1931. Visit during the Cherry Blossom season, often in March and April, as this landmark is a popular place for hanamis (the act of enjoying flowers).

The castle is not only beautiful because of its elegant design, but it is also filled with different activities and artifacts to see on the inside. On display are materials dating back to the Castle’s construction. The Osaka sightseeing experience wouldn’t be complete without it! A fun activity at Osaka Castle is to dress in Japan’s iconic clothing and accessories – kimonos, helmets, and surcoats. Wearing these items would make a great backdrop for a photo. In the vicinity of the park is the Nishinomaru Garden, which is a place where archery is practiced.

8. Shinsekai

Osaka’s Shinsekai district is one of the most unique and attractive districts where you can experience the real feel of old Osaka. There is a nostalgic, post-war atmosphere in this old downtown area. Shinsekai’s streets are filled with colorful and retro shop displays, making it a popular photo spot in Osaka.

In 1912, Tsutenkaku Tower was built to resemble the Eiffel Tower in Paris to represent Shinsekai, a charming neighborhood in Osaka, and its observation deck provides a wonderful view of the city.

9. Shinsaibashi

Osaka’s best shopping district is Shinsaibashi. Numerous shopping malls and boutiques gather within the area, offering everything from luxury brands to fast fashion retailers. The Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade is 600 meters long and has hundreds of shops, including small boutiques and large department stores.

Aside from clothing stores, this massive shopping arcade has a wide variety of shops including drugstores, variety shops, restaurants, cafes, and more. Osaka’s shopping paradise! You’ll shop until you drop here! For shopping enthusiasts, it is definitely one of the best things to do in Osaka.

10. Kuromon Ichiba Market

As in Dotonbori, Kuromon Ichiba offers a variety of street foods and vendors. Taking up much space in Osaka, the market is a lively place to try a wide variety of dishes. When visiting Kuromon Ichiba, you can enjoy fresh food prepared right on the spot by many vendors.

Those who love seafood will love Kuromon Ichiba, which specializes in fish dishes. First-time tourists should try the fresh street foods offered as it is a unique experience.

11. Sumiyoshi Shrine

Established in the third century, the shrine is also called Sumiyoshi Taisha. The temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the entire country. It is one of the best things to do in Osaka to visit this shrine because it is peaceful and enlightening.

A stunning red bridge stands out on the Shrine’s grounds: Sorihashi bridge. You can witness blessings given to children at different times of the year by walking around the shrine, which is relaxing and offers some unique insights.

12. Tower of the Sun

Japanese architecture is exemplified by the Tower of the Sun, which is a unique and extravagant building. Being located in the Osaka prefecture, it is well known and ideal for those staying in a central location. During the 1970 Osaka Expo, the tower was built as a symbol of dedication.

Throughout the tower, you’ll find lots of incredible artwork, including the Tree of Life exhibition area. Due to the tower’s 70-meter height, the top floor observation deck is easily accessible via moving staircases and lifts. The Tree of Life, along with the Tower of the Sun, makes for an unforgettable experience. It should be on your list of things to do in Osaka.

13. Tempozan Ferris Wheel

The Tempozan Ferris wheel isn’t located within an amusement park, but actually within the Tempozan harbor village. This massive structure stands out due to its height of 112 meters and its massive size. It doesn’t seem out of place because the Ferris wheel adds a nice touch to the harbor with its booming nightlife and bright scenery.

It is possible to ride the wheel both during the day and at night, although the glittering lights at night are particularly attractive. It usually takes 15 minutes to ride the Ferris wheel. When wondering what to do in Osaka, riding this iconic wheel is one of the most captivating and entrancing activities. There is no doubt that the ride is thrilling due to its height and is not for everyone, but the view makes it worth it in the end.

14. Umeda Sky Building

One of the most well-known landmarks in Osaka is the Umeda Sky Building. A real sight to see, it is located near Osaka Station. This building is super modern and almost other-worldly looking, with two 40-story towers.

An entire floor known as the Floating Garden Observatory connects the two towers at the top. The view of the entire city is fantastic from here. You shouldn’t head up here if you’re afraid of heights. Since the observatory serves as a bridge between the two towers, it is suspended in the air. The Umeda Sky Building is an iconic piece of modern architecture in Osaka even from the ground.

15. teamLab Botanical Garden

Recently, teamLab opened its new “permanent” venue in Osaka following the huge success of the two museums in Tokyo (teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets). Located in Nagai Park, one of the largest parks in Osaka with a space of 240,000 square meters, the teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is an open-air museum. When it gets dark, the botanical garden becomes a digital art museum.

In the teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka, there are six zones with different digital art pieces that are dynamically changed based on the behavior of nature and the presence of people. Tickets should be purchased in advance as the museum has been extremely popular since opening in 2022!

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Osaka proves to be an enchanting destination with a plethora of activities catering to diverse interests. From the whimsical experience of go-karting around the city as video game characters to the historical significance of Osaka Castle, the city seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. The vibrant Dotonbori District tantalizes the taste buds with its delectable street food, while the nostalgic Shinsekai district offers a glimpse into old Osaka.

The best things to do in Osaka include exploring the heights of the Umeda Sky Building or immersing in digital art at the teamLab Botanical Garden, Osaka’s attractions are both diverse and captivating. With iconic landmarks, unique districts, and cultural gems, Osaka stands out as a must-visit destination, complementing the allure of Tokyo and Kyoto in the realm of Japanese tourism.