Osaka is probably your third option when it comes to choosing places to visit in Japan (after Tokyo and Kyoto), but this city has that power to quietly steal your heart, especially if you love good food. Known as Japan’s Kitchen, Osaka is the birthplace of familiar favorites like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kitsune udon. And trust us, they taste even better where they started.
But Osaka isn’t just about eating your way through the city (though that’s a big plus). Beyond the food, you’ll find historical sites, busy shopping streets, and fun attractions like Universal Studios Japan. If it’s your first time here and you’re wondering what the best places to visit in Osaka are, then keep scrolling because this guide has got you covered!
1. Try Osaka’s street food at Dotonbori
Dotonbori at night with neon lights and canal views in Osaka
Located in the Namba district or as the locals call it, Minami (South), Dotonbori is a street most popular for food and shopping. A former theater zone turned heart of Osaka’s legendary food culture, people go here every night for a taste of Osaka’s famous dishes. It's also the place you're most likely to find cheap hotels.
2. Go shopping at Umeda (Kita District)
Umeda is a major shopping, dining, entertainment and commercial zone with a huge underground shopping mall. It's one of Osaka’s main city centers (the other being Namba) and a busy transportation hub.
While there, you can visit Grand Front Osaka for its modern design and trendy mall. Most noteworthy is the Umeda Sky Building, an impressive two-tower building with a floating garden observatory at the top.
3. See the Osaka skyline at Harukas 300 Observatory
City views from Harukas 300 observation deck in Osaka
Abeno Harukas is Osaka’s tallest building standing at 300 meters with 62 floors. Connected to Kintetsu Osaka Abenoshi station, it features department stores, dining restaurants, an art museum, a floating garden and 2 floors of the glossy Harukas 300 observatory.
Get your Harukas 300 ticket which comes with a free ice cream exchange ticket, where you can choose from two flavors: Pineapple Candy or Abeno Vanilla.
If you’re up for a serious adrenaline rush, you can challenge your fear of heights with the EDGE THE HARUKAS experience at the top of the building. This heart-pounding attraction lets you walk onto a slim platform nearly 300 meters above the ground, safely secured by a harness as you walk along the edge and take in the dizzying views below.
4. Visit Osaka Castle and know more about the city’s culture and history
Photo by Ken Cheung on Unsplash
With a history beginning in the late 1400s, Osaka Castle is considered the symbol of Osaka. The castle is centered in Osaka Castle Park and is a good spot for both being historically cultured and kicking it back with a picnic basket. The Osaka Castle Museum is adorned with a myriad of cherry blossom trees and surrounded by a pool of water.
Gain entry to more than 40 attractions across Osaka (including the Osaka Castle) with the Osaka Amazing Pass! This pass entitles holders to discounted entry and free transportation all around the city.
5. Connect with nature at Minoo Park
Autumn scenery at Minoo Park with red bridge and maple leaves
Mino Park (alternative spelling Minoo, Minoh) is a quasi-national park popularly known for its waterfall, Mino Falls. The waterfall drops from heights of 33m and is 5m wide. The park is one of Japan’s oldest. Located north of Osaka city, this peaceful paradise is reachable within 30 minutes from Umeda.
It’s perfect for a day out with a little bit of hiking involved. To reach the waterfall, you can go on a scenic 3km walk along the river, passing the iconic red bridge. The best season to go is definitely late August when the beauty of the park is enhanced by the daring red maple leaves. It's however, beautiful all year round.
If you have extra time, pair your visit with a trip to Katsuoji Temple, a nearby hillside temple famous for its daruma dolls and peaceful grounds. Together, Minoo Park and Katsuoji make for a calm, nature-filled break that’s perfect for first-time travelers looking to see a different side of Osaka.
6. Get a taste of fresh seafood at Kuromon Ichiba Market
Entrance to Kuromon Market, Osaka’s famous food street
Kuromon Ichiba Market is where you find everything fresh. Starting out as a fresh vegetable, fruits and seafood bazaar, it now has clothing, gadgets and ready to eat food amongst others.
You can get a taste of fresh seafood meals for lunch. The market has been around for lunch at pop-up restaurants and food stands along the market. It has been around for about 190 years, it got popular because of top chefs from famous restaurants buying their ingredients here.
For fresh and sumptuous seafood snacks and meals, Kuromon Ichiba is highly recommended. This is a daytime market; opening time varies between 8:00am and 5:00pm. Here are some suggestions of what food you should try.
7. Explore the underwater world at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Explore Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of Osaka’s most famous family attractions
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan exhibits over 30,000 marine creatures of 620 different species; hence, it is considered one of the largest aquariums in the world. This gigantic aquarium houses favorites like whale sharks, dolphins and penguins.
8. Experience old Japan at Sumiyoshi Taisha
Traditional architecture at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka | Photo from Geoff Whalan on Flickr
Sumiyoshi Taisha also called Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines. Built in the 3rd century, it is believed to protect sailors, travelers and fishermen. The Taiko-Bashi Bridge serves as a cleanser from impurities and is a great photography spot. It receives about 2 million people annually during the New Year when people come for their first temple visit.
9. Roam around the Shitennoji Temple grounds
Visitor at Shitennoji Temple in Osaka
Shitennoji Temple is a five story pagoda temple complex built in 593 AD and is considered the first Buddhist temple in Japan. The temple, however, not in its original state, has been rebuilt according to the first design and in Buddhist style.
Explore the inner grounds, see the four guardian kings, and visit the first two floors of the pagoda for free.
10. Heal your inner child at Universal Studios Japan
And finally, probably the most popular of all Osaka attractions and one of the reasons many tourists find themselves in Osaka. Universal Studios Japan has various kinds of thrilling rides inspired by blockbuster movies. The most famous is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can see a replica of the Hogwarts castle.
Know more about what to expect and how to navigate USJ on our ultimate Universal Studios Japan guide and then get discounted tickets hassle-free from Klook, an authorized USJ partner.
FAQs about things to do in Osaka, Japan for first-timers
What is Osaka best known for?
Osaka is best known as Japan’s food capital, often called Japan’s Kitchen, thanks to local favorites like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. The city also has a fun-loving, down-to-earth vibe that feels more relaxed than Tokyo. Add lively districts like Dotonbori and big attractions like USJ, and it’s easy to see why Osaka stands out.
Is 3 days enough in Osaka?
Yes, 3 days is a great amount of time to experience Osaka without rushing. You can go to the main sights, enjoy the food scene, and even squeeze in a theme park or day trip. It’s ideal for first-timers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, shopping, and eating.
What to do in Osaka for first-timers?
For first-timers wondering what to do in Osaka, start with Dotonbori for street food and nightlife, then visit Osaka Castle for a dose of history. Explore shopping areas like Shinsaibashi and Kuromon Market, and don’t miss the views from a city observatory. If time allows, Universal Studios Japan is a popular add-on.
Is 2 full days in Osaka enough?
Two full days in Osaka can work if you focus on the highlights. You’ll have enough time to see central attractions like Dotonbori, eat well, and get a feel for the city’s energy. While it may feel a bit fast-paced, it’s still enough for a memorable first visit.
What is the most visited place in Osaka?
Dotonbori is widely considered the most visited place in Osaka. Known for its neon lights, canal views, and endless food options, it’s often the first stop for visitors. It perfectly captures Osaka’s lively spirit and love for good food.
More Osaka guides for you!
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