Osaka

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Osaka

Sitting in the heart of the Kansai region is Osaka, the third-largest city in Japan. It could be the proximity to Korea, China, and the coast that has made it become known as the "Kitchen of Japan". Osaka's people have a true zest for life. They promote a casual ambience and are slightly, unconventionally boisterous. Osaka is regenerating, now recognising its past beauty and working hard to re-establish it. This stimulating city is now more than ever a must-see.

The City

Osaka is predominantly divided into wards which are referred to as 'ku' in Japanese. Kita-ku, located in the North is primarily the business and commercial area. Minami-ku in the south is principally the shopping and entertainment hub of the city. From the outset, Osaka seems like a futuristic city which is in part due to the impressive modern architecture that lines the streets. However, more recently, it has been looking back to its past – now restoring beautiful parks and public areas that showcase a long history of excellence and attention to detail. The people of Osaka are often called “kuidaore,” meaning that they become poor because of their extravagance in eating and drinking. Shopping and eating are certainly the preferred activities here.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

There is plenty of diversity in Osaka and lots to do and see for everyone with an interest in Japanese history, modern technology and eccentric, up-and-coming trends. Shinsaibashi is the most popular shopping area, Soemoncho is the entertainment district and Dotombori is packed with theatres and restaurants. In the Uehommachi district, you will come across the Shin-Kabukiza Theatre and the famous National Bunra-ku Puppet Theatre. Further south is the Shinsekai ward, where you cannot miss the 103-metre Tsutenka-ku Tower, a recognised landmark of Osaka.

The National Museum of Art

This museum is not only impressive for its modern design on the outside, it also offers visitors other interesting things on the inside. It exhibits Japanese, as well as contemporary art from various artists from all over the world. Most of the exhibits are from the post-war …

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is the city's most famous landmark. It was originally built in 1583 by the order of Hideyoshi Toyotomi but suffered several destructions throughout history. Rebuilt in 1931 with the external appearance created by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the Japanese Government designated the main tower as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property years later, in …

Osaka Museum of History

The Osaka Museum of History lies just outside Osaka Castle Park. It aims to bring the city's history to life and features a multi-dimensional experience of the 1,400-year history of Osaka, with life-size reconstructions, scale models, and key photographs and movies. An entertaining and fun experience for young and …

Shin-umeda City Floating Garden

Shin Umeda City was completed in 1993 and has become one of Osaka's main points of orientation in the city. You can enjoy a great view over the city at the observatory on the 39th …

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the biggest aquariums in the world, and has a great variety of fish, and even a few whale sharks. The Japanese word Kaiyukan, literally means "Playing in the Sea …

The National Bunraku

In this theatre you can view the fascinating and unusual art form "bunraku", which is a Japanese puppet drama derived from the 17th-century. There are also English programs available and earphones for …

Osaka Municipal Museum of Art

The Osaka Municipal Museum of Art offers artwork from the country's finest contemporary artists. The museum has sculptures, paintings and calligraphy from both known established artists and skilled …

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

The Samiyoshi Taisha Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest shrines and it is registered as a National Treasure. Many events are staged at this historical location. Every year on New Year's day, a large crowd gathers at the shrine to …

The Museum of Oriental Ceramics

This museum is specialized in ceramics and almost three thousand items from China and Korea are displayed here. The stylish museum has a world-class collection of oriental …

Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji Temple is the oldest officially administered temple in Japan. The temple was built by Prince Shotoku and had an important status in the city's trade history due to its location on the Bay. Throughout history, the temple has been reconstructed several …

Video Game Bar Space Station

This is a great place to go if you like playing video games while drinking since these two pleasures are combined at the Video Game Bar Space Station. You can choose from game machines like Xbox, Super Nintendo, Genesis and many …

Dotonbori

Dotonbori is one of Osaka's most popular areas. You can find almost everything here; theatres, bars, nightclubs, cafés, restaurants, you name it. All day and night, entertainment …

Shinsaibashi

Nanba Grand Kagetsu

If you're looking for some fun, the Nanba Grand neighborhood is your place to go. There is a multitude of entertainment centers, theaters, shops and you are guaranteed a fantastic vibe at this busy …

Universal Studios Japan

The Universal Studios Japan is the Hollywood equivalent theme park with attraction from your favourite movies. This is a great place for a whole day of family fun with numerous restaurants, rides and …

Osaka Science Museum

This museum offers fun and education for the whole family. You can easily spend hours wandering through its exhibitions and permanent collections. If you’re interested in life, the universe and everything in between you can learn more about our solar system in the planetarium hall or join the science …

Osaka International Peace Center

This museum aims to promote peace and gives information about Osaka in World War II. Historical documents and video installations depict aerial assaults, attacks on Japan as well as the horrors of the atom bomb. Learn more about Osaka’s recent past by visiting these …

Kema Sakuranomiya Park

In Japan the cherry blossom or Sakura is celebrated for its beauty and symbolizes renewal, life as well as ephemerality. In this park along the Okawa River you can watch the spectacle of about 5000 cherry trees blooming in early spring. The best time for picnics amongst the magnificent white and pink trees is …

Tsutenkaku

Originally constructed in 1912 and rebuilt after WWII in 1956, the Tsūtenkaku Tower stands 103 meters tall and gives you an outstanding view of all of Osaka. When on top you can venture to step on the platform with a guide and safety belt to experience some exciting …

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum

Have you ever wondered where this delicious and easy to make Ramen comes from? Then visit this Cup Noodle Museum and learn more about the inventor and the history of the popular dish. As well as free audio guides, the place offers ramen workshops for the whole …

Yamamoto Noh Theater

Experience one of the world's oldest theatrical forms – Noh – at the oldest operational theatre of its kind in Osaka. Opt for the "Kamigata Night” programme to acquaint yourself with all of Kansai Region's traditional performing arts, such as the famed Kabuki, Bunraku Puppet Theatre, Rakugo, and, of course, Noh. The stylish theatre …

Museum of Housing and Living

The exquisite museum offers visitors an immersive experience into Osaka's Edo (9th floor), Meiji (8th floor) and recent Showa periods. Life-size recreations of Osaka's ancient streets and scale models are complete with multiple original artifacts dating back to the respective eras. One of the museum's main attractions is the opportunity to try on and …

Shinsekai

Crowned by the looming Tsutenkaku tower, the district of Shinsekai is one of the city's premier entertainment districts, with a slew of dining, drinking and shopping options. It is also the best place int he city to try kushikatsu, a regional delicacy consisting of skewered and deep-fried meat and …

Hozenji Temple

Tucked away behind a busy street, just a few blocks away from Dotonbori canal, lies the tiny and quaint 17th century Buddhist temple, Hozenji. It is a rare space of peace and tranquility in one of the city's busiest districts, and should not be …

Dining

Due to its fertile land and close proximity to the sea, Osaka has always produced copious amounts of delicious, fresh ingredients. A particularly popular dish in Osaka is "Okonomiyaki", a Japanese-style pancake that often comes with a combination of meat, seafood or vegetables and is covered in one of many tasty sauces to accompany it. Take a seat in an Izakaya, (the Japanese version of a pub) and try "Takoyaki" – balls of fried wheat batter containing octopus.

La Baie

La Baie offers exceptional seafood and meat dishes with an imaginative, eclectic flair. They are recipients of a Michelin star, a 5-spoon and fork of the Michelin Guide Kyoto Osaka Kobe 2011. For dinner, men are requested to wear a jacket and and women are expected to be dressed in formal …

Gataro

Hidden under the Hankyu railway, this cozy and nostalgic izakaya restaurant is a popular haunt amongst the locals. Typically in these Japanese-style pub-restaurants they serve grilled fish prepared whilst you wait, and its highly recommended to give it a go. Unlike most Izakaya restaurants, Gataro has an English menu, although that is about the …

Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M is a popular restaurant that offers traditional Japanese cuisine including one of the most exclusive and expensive cuts of meat in the world, Matsusaka beef. It may not be cheap, but it is without a doubt worth every penny. The staff are very friendly here at the Yokocho branch and guests …

Ichiran

The Ichiran chain of ramen restaurants are purported to be some of the best in the country and perhaps even further afield. So if you like noodles, this is the place for you. There are numerous variations to choose from, including the local favourite Tonkotsu Ramen which comes with a special sauce made in …

Endo Sushi

Touted as one of the best sushi restaurants in Osaka, Endo Sushi uses tried and tested methods of culinary mastery dating back to the early 1900s to create authentic and traditional Japanese cuisine. There are some interesting delicacies here at the Central Market branch such as horse mackerel and conger eel, so be sure …

Fukutaro

The main store of Fukutaro is considered to be a must-try in Osaka. This is a great place to try okonomiyaki, a pancake-like dish often topped with meat, fish, vegetables and a corresponding sauce to accompany it such as aonori or Japanese mayonnaise. There are numerous variations to choose from and if you can't …

Splendido

Restaurant Splendido can be found at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. Here you can enjoy Italian dishes in a cosy …

Tsurutontan Soemoncho

Another outstanding noodle house in Osaka is the Soemoncho branch of Tsurutontan. Make sure you are hungry when you come here since the portions are usually on the heavier side. The udon is a favourite as it is cooked to perfection, chewy and bursting full of …

Hajime

This classy restaurant equipped with not one but three Michelin stars has been described as 'mind-blowing', 'exceptional', 'artistic' and 'delicious' by some of the most discerning critics in the game. Hajime is a great place to go if you want something extraordinary. Every dish here is a like a piece of art and every …

Outback Steakhouse Umeda

If you are craving a juicy steak with a touch of Australian tanginess, head straight to Outback Steakhouse Umeda. This restaurant chain can be found in various places throughout Japan as well as the rest of the world. The best of Australian cuisine fits in very comfortably amongst the high class restaurants specialising in …

Fujiya 1935

This contemporary restaurant fuses the best of Japanese cuisine with the likes of Italian, Spanish and other well renowned European cooking styles. The set menu changes regularly so it would be wise to check in advance what is being served on the day. The staff here are very friendly and the ambience is pleasant …

Okonomiyaki Mizuno

Osaka's oldest pancake house offers you a mouthwatering variety of traditional Japanese pancakes with different tantalising ingredients and toppings. Mizuno has been serving up okonomiyaki pancakes for every taste and every meal of the day since 1945. Try the new yam yaki which goes extremely well with squid, shrimp, scallops or pork …

Harukoma Sushi

Located in Japan's longest shopping arcade Tenjinbashisuji is the fabled Harukoma Sushi, recognisable if only by the line leading up to its inconspicuous front door. Lines move fast however, and the superb quality of the sushi and sashimi served here are certainly worth the wait. Price to quality ratio is among the best in …

Cafés

Osaka’s streets are lined with captivating cafés, each offering a unique experience. Some embrace fantastical themes like anime, ninja lore, or the famous 'kawaii' culture, where vibrant colours and cuteness abound. Others focus on quality coffee and light bites, making them ideal spots for breakfast staples. A standout treat is the Japanese soufflé pancake, a tempting novelty that rivals the best and fluffiest American versions.

Planet 3rd

Planet 3rd is a cute, hip little café within the Hearton hotel which showcases some cool decor in a nice, light atmosphere. They serve a full American breakfast between 7am and noon and have free internet …

Rue d’Or

You can find the French Bistro Rue d’Or at the exquisite 5-star St. Regis hotel. Here you can enjoy a tasty croissant with a café au lait in the morning or a larger meal later in the day accompanied by a glass of red all the way from France. There is even a new …

Ninja Experience Cafe Osaka Dotonbori

Everyone has wished or at least wondered what is like to be a Ninja at some point in their life. At the Ninja Experience Cafe Osaka Dotonbori, the dream comes to life! This cafe is great for kids of all ages and grown ups are sure to join in with the exciting ninjitsu lessons …

LiLo Coffee Roasters

Praised as one of the best coffees that you can find in Osaka, the coffee beans at LiLo Coffee Roasters can be enjoyed in one of the three branches throughout the city or you can take them home to have whenever the mood strikes. Load up the cup with milk and sugar for an …

Melbourne Coffee, Craft & Cider

This Aussie style cafe away from the centre of Osaka is worth the pilgrimage if you are into large quantities of eggs, bacon, avocados and tomatoes. There are of course other options available at Melbourne Coffee, Craft & Cider as the name would suggest. The cider and the coffee here comes in from down …

Micasadeco & Cafe Osaka

At Micasadeco & Cafe Osaka visitors can indulge in mouthwatering Japanese soufflé pancakes that are a favourite amongst tourists and locals alike. The brunch menu here is vast but if you are into pancakes, look no further. Sweet, savoury, stuffed with cheese, doused in coconut custard...the options are …

Bars & Nightlife

Osaka's never-ending, lively bar scene generally revolves around specific wards. Minami attracts the young, hip clientele whilst Kita tends to cater to a more mature crowd. Music and an innovative mixture of bar-come-nightclub venues are on offer to suit most trends, persuasions and moods, equipped to entertain you until the early hours of the evening, whatever you may be looking for. "Kampai!"

Murphy's Irish Pub

Murphy's is a popular and well established Irish bar which attracts an eclectic mix of Japanese and Western clientele. For all sports enthusiasts, their 100 inch screen is the ideal way to watch international and domestic sports such as rugby and football. Private parties can also be organised ahead of time and Murphy's caters …

Club Joule

Club Joule is a Trance lovers' paradise. The club is very popular amongst the young but of course, seasoned ravers are more than welcome. Besides hard house, techno and trance you can also wind away to hip-hop and rap until the early morning at this massive neon-lit …

Royal Horse

This jazz club shows off the talents of some of the best musicians in the country and further afield. It is a great place to enjoy some of the best whiskeys and brandies of the area and the food menu, although not as comprehensive as some other restaurants in the area has a few …

St. Regis Bar

At the elegant and timeless St. Regis Bar you are bound to feel right at home. In a cosy environment reminiscent of New York in the early 20th Century, guests can enjoy a few drinks and something good to eat whilst listening to live music. There is also afternoon tea with Taneya during the …

The Blarney Stone

This unapologetically Irish Pub in the middle of Osaka is the ideal location for celebrating a night out on the town if Guinness is the tipple of preference. You can catch regular specials on the cocktail menu as well as live events such as 'Pool Night' and 'English Club'. We have opted for The …

Explosion

For those looking for an open-minded and foreigner friendly gay-bar, Explosion is the place to be. Drop in to find a dedicated party crowd having a good time on the dance-floor or hang out with some friends at the …

Owl Osaka

Owl Osaka is your number one address for live music, events and performances. In the heart of the Umeda district, this venue dazzles with an outstanding concert hall and exciting acts. Check their website for upcoming events and keep an eye on the happy …

Pure Osaka

Spirits are high in this nighttime playground. The place is well known for its unending parties and satisfied customers. While the program features various events, you can also book the club for a private party. You will never see bored faces in this place, only pure, unadulterated …

Club Life

Hip Hop, Reggae, House, you name it. Club Life is a hot meeting point among the young party crowd. Here you can dance until the early morning hours, share a story with some friends over drinks and meet new people. Prices are pretty reasonable and the owner, along with the rest of the staff …

Balabushka

For those with a hankering to shoot some pool or sling some darts, Balabushka is the spot. Here you can compete with friends as well as strangers for primacy in one of the epic tournaments that take place regularly here long into the night. If and when you get tired, you can take a …

Ghost

This hazy club blares out everything from R’n’B to Hip Hop to House, giving everyone the chance to move to their favourite beats. International guests are warmly welcomed within and the staff will take good care of you. Note that the party usually starts late here, so best drop by around …

T.N.T. Craft Beer Pub and Bottle Shop

As the name suggests, this is the ultimate spot for Craft Beer. The modern interior expresses a DIY culture that will make you immediately feel right at home. Tell the friendly staff your preferences and you will receive professional advice on your perfect match which can be drunk on site or as a take …

Club Ammona

If you are looking for a more luxurious nightlife experience, check out this self proclaimed adult playground where the absurdly surreal can become real. Between live performances and theme parties at Club Ammona you can get beauty treatments, haircuts and even your nails done within. Give yourself a new look and drop directly into …

Misono Building

The second and third floors of this somewhat dilapidated building in the Ura-Namba district hide some of the most unique and interesting bars in Osaka. The long narrow halls are lined on either side by tiny, intimate venues, many of which have an interesting theme such as retro video games and some of which …

Shopping

Osaka’s shopping areas can be divided into four districts: Umeda, Namba, Shinsai-bashi, and Tennoji. Shinsia-bashi is arguably the main shopping area where you will find the ever-popular Amerika-mura, displaying unabashedly American goods. This is the place where many young Japanese come to check out the latest trends or just hang out beneath the miniature Statue of Liberty. Umeda has some of the city’s largest department stores that cater to the masses. Namba (also known as Minami) has the best food culture and in the Tennoji district, you can find both priceless antiques and contemporary fashion.