Osaka

Things to do in Osaka

Compare tickets, tours, transfers, hotels and flights for Osaka in one place, and see who provides each one before you book.

Photo: 663highland, CC BY 2.5, Wikimedia Commons

AirportsKansai International (KIX), Osaka Itami (ITM)
Getting aroundSubway, trains and on foot
CurrencyJapanese yen (JPY)
Best monthsMarch to May, October and November

Osaka in brief

Osaka is Japan’s third city, and the one most devoted to eating. It is louder, friendlier and less formal than Tokyo, and street food is part of the sightseeing.

The city has two centres: Umeda in the north, with its stations and towers, and Namba in the south, where the neon signs of Dotonbori line the canal. Osaka Castle stands between them.

Universal Studios Japan is the big draw for families, and it should be booked ahead. Osaka is also a handy base for Kyoto, Nara and Himeji.

Top attractions in Osaka

Tickets and guided visits for the city’s best-known sights.

Photo: Dotonbori — 32linesky (CC BY-SA 4.0); Osaka Castle — Syced (CC0); Universal Studios Japan — Rebirth10 (CC0); Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan — そらみみ (CC BY-SA 4.0); Umeda Sky Building — Martin Falbisoner (CC BY-SA 4.0); Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower — Sakai Yayoi (CC0) · Wikimedia Commons

Tours and day trips

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Getting there and around

Airport transfer from Kansai International Airport (KIX)A pre-booked car from arrivals to your hotel. Alternatives are the Nankai express to Namba, JR trains or the airport bus.
Trains from OsakaTrains reach Kyoto in about half an hour and Nara in about forty minutes. Bullet trains reach Himeji in half an hour and Hiroshima in about an hour and a half.
Car rentalNot needed in the city. Useful only for rural areas. Driving is on the left.

Flights

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Where to stay

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1

Namba and Dotonbori

The southern centre, with food, nightlife and direct trains to the airport.
2

Umeda

The northern centre, around the main stations, with department stores and towers.
3

Shinsaibashi

Covered shopping arcades between the two centres, lively by day and evening.
4

Bay Area

Close to Universal Studios Japan and the aquarium. Best for theme-park visits.
Hotels in Osaka with live prices

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Osaka day by day

  1. Day 1: The castle and DotonboriOsaka Castle in the morning, the Umeda Sky Building in the afternoon, then Dotonbori after dark.
  2. Day 2: Universal Studios JapanA full day at the park. Arrive before opening, and head first for the most popular area.
  3. Day 3: The bay and ShinsekaiThe Kaiyukan aquarium in the morning, Kuromon Market for lunch, then Shinsekai towards evening.
  4. With a fourth dayTake a day trip to Nara, Kyoto or Himeji.

Local tips

  • On escalators in Osaka, people stand on the right. In Tokyo it is the left.
  • Use a rechargeable transport card or your phone on trains, subways and buses.
  • At fried-skewer restaurants, dip each skewer in the shared sauce only once.
  • Buy Universal Studios Japan tickets for a set date before you travel. Busy days sell out.
  • Carry some cash. Street stalls and small restaurants often do not take cards.

Before you go

eSIMMobile data for Japan. Buy and install it before you travel.
AiraloYesimSaily
Travel insuranceCover for medical costs and cancellations.
Luggage storageLeave bags near the station or the sights.
Radical Storage
Flight delay compensationCheck whether a delayed or cancelled flight qualifies.
AirHelpCompensair

Everything for Osaka

Ten services for the trip, all in one place.

Attraction ticketsMuseums and landmarks, with timed entry explained
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Tours & day tripsGuided and self-guided
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Airport transfersA driver waiting at arrivals
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HotelsLive prices, book in a few steps
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FlightsFind the cheapest route
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Car rentalLocal and international companies
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eSIMMobile data, bought before you travel
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Travel insuranceCover for the whole tripHow it works
Trains & busesCity to city tickets
Klook (Europe trains)
Cruises & boatsSightseeing and dinner cruises
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Travel guide

Osaka is best in spring and autumn, and most visitors need 2 to 3 days in the city. Kansai Airport is linked to the centre by two train lines in about 35 to 50 minutes.

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Osaka?

Late March and April bring cherry blossom, and October and November are mild and clear. Summer is hot and humid.

How many days do I need in Osaka?

Two days cover the city. Stay longer if you use it as a base for Kyoto, Nara and Himeji.

Should I book Universal Studios Japan ahead?

Yes. Tickets are sold for a set date and sell out on busy days, and the most popular area may need a timed entry ticket.

How do I get from the airport to the centre?

From Kansai International, the Nankai express reaches Namba in about forty minutes, and JR trains run to Tennoji and Osaka stations. Airport buses, taxis and pre-booked transfers are also available.

Is Osaka a good base for Kyoto and Nara?

Yes. Both are under an hour away by train, and Osaka has plenty of hotels and places to eat in the evening.