Think Osaka is just another big city in Japan? Think again! Here, you’ll find the friendliest locals, who love food almost as much as they love making visitors feel welcome. When you plan your Japan Tour Package with us, give Osaka at least three to four days—trust us, you’ll need it!Among all the things to do in Japan, Osaka stands out for being really fun and laid-back.
One day you’re taking silly photos with the giant moving crab signs in Dotonbori, the next you’re finding quiet places to visit in Osaka like beautiful old temples. The best part? You can stuff yourself with amazing street food without breaking the bank!
While other places to visit in Japan might feel a bit formal, Osaka is where you can really let loose. Watch locals joke around at food stalls, ride wild rides at Universal Studios, or explore a castle resembling something from a fairy tale. And getting around is super easy – hop on the subway and you’re all set. Get ready for a good time – that’s the Osaka way!
Top 25 Things to Do in Osaka
Among the most visited tourist destinations in Osaka is Osaka Castle. However, while the castle itself was already constructed during the 16th century, it sits along these beautiful gardens and moats. You may walk around freely within the area or pay entrance fees for a more interesting look at its history inside. This is one of the best things to do in Osaka, especially for history enthusiasts who want to understand the city’s samurai past, and its grandeur is impressive.Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
Location: 11 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: 324 INR Approximately
2. Walk Through Dotonbori
Dotonbori is the center point of nightlife in Osaka and forms a very important shopping destination in Japan. Bright neon lights, huge hoardings, and busy streets make it one of the biggest attractions in Osaka. There, tourists are advised to taste the local street food, that is, takoyaki and okonomiyaki, amidst the energetic atmosphere. The nightlife of this zone is at its peak, thus becoming one of the top things to do in Osaka for residents of Osaka as well as tourists.Timings: Open 24 hours; restaurants and shops have individual operating hours.
Location: Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Free to explore; food and entertainment costs vary.
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3. Visit Universal Studios Japan
A theme park lover will also find it one of the top attractions to do in Osaka: Universal Studios Japan. It is perfect for families and adventure lovers with thrilling rides, the Harry Potter ride, and many more. Spend a whole day exploring the exciting zones, viewing live performances, and having fun with themed snacks. Truly a day to remember for all visitors.Timings: Typically 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM; hours may vary.
Location: 2-Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: 1-day pass: 4763 INR – 6424 INR Approx depending on the season.
Foodies will definitely love the Kuromon Ichiba Market. Dubbed “Osaka’s Kitchen,” this is a perfect place for trying fresh sushi, seafood, and other Japanese bites. This is one of the top things to do in Osaka when experiencing the city’s local flavor. Walk around the stalls in the market and talk with amiable vendors for a full appreciation of the food culture of Osaka.Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; individual shop hours may vary.
Location: 241 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Free to enter; pay for purchases.
5. Enjoy the Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building is a remarkable architectural work of art. Enjoy the observatory deck and fantastic views of the city at sunset. It would be among the best things to do in Osaka for photographers and couples if they ever happen to visit. The Floating Garden Observatory is an enchanting creation and provides a stunning view of Osaka’s skyline that is unforgettable.Timings: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM (last entry at 10:00 PM).
Location: 1188 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Adults: 810 INR approx.
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6. Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world’s largest aquariums, to discover marine life. Its attractions include whale sharks and hands-on exhibits. The place is friendly to children, and it’s also one of the highest-ranked Osaka tourist spots. Some hours will surely pass while visiting the themed zones of the aquarium, which represent different aquatic regions of the Earth, making it an educational visit in addition to its entertainment value.Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry at 7:00 PM).
Location: 1110 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Adults: 1296 INR; Children: 648 INR Approximately
7. Relax at Shitennoji Temple
Shitennoji is one of Japan’s oldest temples. The temple is one of the unique things to do in Osaka because it has peaceful surroundings and traditional architecture. Entry into the outer grounds is free. It is also a great way to find things to do for free in Osaka. The atmosphere of this temple is good for an escape from the city.Timings: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
Location: 11118 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Free for outer grounds; inner precincts: 162 INR approx.
8. Indulge in Osaka’s Street Food
Osaka is known for its street food. Some popular dishes to try include takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). There is no doubt that sampling street food is one of the top things to do in Osaka for food lovers. Explore the food stalls and small eateries scattered throughout Dotonbori and Namba to discover the rich flavors of the city.9. Shop at Shinsaibashi-Suji
Shinsaibashi-Suji is a long shopping street lined with trendy shops, local boutiques, and international brands. For those who love fashion, one of the best things to do in Osaka is to shop along this street. It has something for everyone’s souvenirs to the latest trends. Do not forget to see the unique local products.Location: Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka.
Timings: Varies by store; typically 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Entry Fee: Free.
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10. Learn at the Osaka Museum of History
Near Osaka Castle, is one of the great history museums. History enthusiasts will love the look that the museum offers in details of Osaka’s past. Thus, it ranks as one of the best things to do in Osaka for a culture-curious tourist. The exhibits, interactive and full of artifacts from history, can help to understand the deep cultural heritage of the city.Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM); closed on Tuesdays.
Location: 4132 Otemae, Chuo Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Adults: 324 INR approx; discounts available for students and groups.
11. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of the most important and well-known shrines in Osaka. It’s valued by visitors for its peculiar architecture and peaceful grounds, and it is indeed one of the free things to do in Osaka. Its famous Taiko Bridge as well as the quiet environment attract locals and tourists alike looking for serenity.Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Location: 2989 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Free.
12. Catch a Baseball Game at Kyocera Dome
This makes Kyocera Dome the go-to destination for sports enthusiasts looking to watch a baseball game, providing an energetic environment that one won’t easily forget making it a unique things to do in Osaka For baseball enthusiasts or just a sporting spectacle, a match held at this dome in Osaka will undoubtedly be worth visiting.Suggested Read: Tsukiji Outer Market
13. Take a Cruise on the Tombori River
Taking a cruise along the Tombori River is one of the top things to do in Osaka that can be experienced in Osaka. The evening light of the Dotonbori River and lights from the entire city are marvelous. It’s very relaxing while touring the city with a difference in perspective. Many people make romantic getaways along this cruise route.14. Experience Osaka’s Nightlife in Namba
Namba is the center of things to do in Osaka at night. From karaoke bars to izakayas, there’s plenty to explore after sunset. The colorful streets come alive with music, food, and fun, offering endless entertainment options for night owls.Established in 1915, Tennoji Zoo is one of the oldest zoos and a top Osaka attraction; visitors can view more than 1,000 animals in 200 species. Located within Tennoji Park, it is a suitable place for a family or for those who are interested in nature. It features some of the best attractions in Osaka, and the habitat designs are in keeping with natural settings. A must-see in any Osaka sightseeing tour, the African Savanna zone, and the nocturnal animal exhibits are a highlight. The Tennoji Zoo is an important entry in every Osaka travel guide.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); closed on Mondays.
Location: 1108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Adults: 270 INR approx; Children: 108 INR approx.
16. Visit Tsutenkaku Tower
The view from Osaka can be seen from Tsutenkaku Tower. With its retro vibe and shopping streets around it, this makes it one of the Osaka tourist spots worth visiting. The tower’s observation deck is a perfect place to appreciate the bird’s-eye view of the city at dusk.Location: 1-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Entry Fee: 900 yen for adults.
17. Explore the Osaka Science Museum
The Osaka Science Museum is considered one of the best attractions in Osaka, allowing a highly interactive engagement with science and technology. Various travel guides will cover this as an attraction. This museum for families and curious minds is one of the top attractions in Osaka. This is among the top sights in Osaka, a place offering exhibits and a planetarium. Perfect for Osaka sightseeing, it is considered one of the Osaka tourist attractions that depict innovation and learning in a manner that strongly places it at the top as one of the best things to do in Osaka.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM); closed on Mondays.
Location: 421 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Museum: 216 INR approx; Planetarium: additional 324 INR Approx.
18. Enjoy Free Parks and Nature Spots
If you’re looking for free things to do in Osaka, visit parks like Nakanoshima Park or Minoo Park. These spots are perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. Enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely walk, or simply soak in the natural beauty of these green spaces.Suggested Read: Imperial Palace Tokyo
19. Visit the National Museum of Art
The museum is underground and includes contemporary art both within and outside of Japan. One of the more interesting and top things to do in Osaka, this museum stands out with its beautiful architecture and thoughtful exhibits.Location: 4-2-55 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka
Timings: Tuesday–Thursday, Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM, Closed on Mondays and select holidays.
Entry Fees: Collection Exhibitions: Adults 232 INR, University Students 80 INR, Free for under 18, 65+, and visitors with disabilities.
Relax at Spa World, the large hot spring facility featuring baths inspired from around the world. This is an ideal place to rest and recharge after visiting Osaka for the day. For visitors interested in spas, this place makes it one of the best things to do in Osaka.Location: 3-4-24 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka.
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Entry Fee: 1,300-2,400 yen (varies by time and day).
21. Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel
One of the most romantic things to do in Osaka is the 112.5-meter-high Tempozan Ferris Wheel, offering very good views over Osaka Bay as well as views of the entire city skyline, making it an excellent location in Osaka to stop by and capture stunning sightseeing. Being that it’s conveniently located close to the Osaka Aquarium, this remains a great, must-visit destination within the travel guide on Osaka.Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Location: 1110 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka.
Entry Fees: Adults: 432 INR approx; discounts available for children.
Known as the “American Village,” Amerikamura is a trendy spot with quirky shops, street art, and hip cafes. It’s one of the unique things to do in Osaka for young travelers. This colorful area is a hub for Osaka’s youth culture and creative scene.Location: Chuo Ward, Osaka.
Timings: Open 24 hours (shop timings vary).
Entry Fee: Free.
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23. Discover Hidden Cafes
Osaka is home to many unique cafes. From themed cafes to traditional tea houses, exploring these is one of the top things to do in Osaka for coffee lovers. Each cafe has its own beauty, offering everything from exquisite matcha lattes to quirky decor.24. Take a Day Trip to Kyoto
Kyoto is just a short train ride away and offers plenty of cultural experiences. You can enjoy the top things to do in Kyoto, like visiting Kinkaku-ji or the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. A day trip to Kyoto is a great way to complement your Osaka adventure.25. Visit Expo ‘70, Commemorative Park
This park has beautiful gardens, walking trails, and museums. It’s one of the best things to do in Osaka for nature lovers. The spacious park is perfect for leisurely walks and exploring Japan’s Expo history.Location: 1-1 Senribampaku Koen, Suita, Osaka.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fee: 150 INR for adults.
Osaka is a city full of life, history, and lots of great food. From free things to do in Osaka to what to do in Osaka at night, this Osaka travel guide has it all. Check out the Osaka tourist spots and unique things to do in Osaka for a truly memorable adventure. Have an amazing time and enjoy every bit of your trip to Osaka!
