Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, offers a captivating blend of rich history, modern innovation, and vibrant culture. Known for its historical landmarks, bustling shopping streets, and world-renowned cuisine, Osaka captivates visitors with its charm and energy. Whether you’re indulging in a gourmet meal of Kobe beef, experiencing a traditional tea ceremony, or exploring the city’s castles and shrines, Osaka promises an unforgettable journey of discovery. If you’re beginning your Japanese adventure in the nation’s capital before heading across to Osaka and exploring the rest of the region, consider getting a Tokyo Osaka train pass for added convenience. But first, let’s take a look at the unique experiences that await you on a trip to the city.
Wander the Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street
For those with a passion for luxury shopping, a stroll down Shinsaibashi-suji is a must. This bustling covered arcade, stretching over 600 meters, is Osaka’s most famous shopping destination, lined with an array of high-end boutiques, designer stores, traditional kimono shops, and unique local brands. As you wander through the covered street, you’ll also find chic cafés and patisseries perfect for taking a break and people-watching.
Visit Tenmangu Shrine and see a Noh performance
Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Osaka with a visit to Tenmangu Shrine, a sacred site with a rich history dating back to the 10th century. While here, you can experience a traditional Noh performance, a classical Japanese art form that combines music, dance, and poetry. The performance takes place within the Main Shrine’s sanctum, an area typically off-limits to the public, creating an intimate and spiritually charged atmosphere.
Take in Stunning Views from the Umeda Sky Building
A trip to Osaka wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Umeda Sky Building, one of the city’s most iconic structures. Standing 173 meters tall, this architectural marvel consists of two 40-story towers connected by the Floating Garden Observatory. The building has a unique design, all futuristic architecture and glass elevators, and you can enjoy a 360-degree vista of Osaka with a cocktail from the open-air rooftop deck, which is particularly stunning during twilight hours.
Experience a Tea Ceremony in Osaka Castle Gardens
Visiting Osaka Castle is a must for any traveler looking to explore the rich history and culture of the city. This impressive landmark, surrounded by expansive gardens and moats, offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past with its grand architecture and expansive museum. The picturesque adjacent garden of Nishinomaru, is one of the best places in Japan to have a picnic and witness the divine springtime cherry bloom. You can also experience the tranquility of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the Hoshoan tea house in the northeast corner of the garden. Led by a skilled tea master, the ceremony teaches you the intricate steps and etiquette of this centuries-old practice.
Take a Culinary Tour through the Dotonbori District
The Dotonbori district, well-known throughout Japan for its vibrant nightlife and neon lights, is the ideal place for a gourmet adventure through the culinary paradise that is Osaka. A guided culinary tour through Dotonbori will take you to exclusive restaurants where you can savor the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the famous Kobe beef, expertly prepared by master chefs. As you explore the neon-lit streets with an experienced local guide, you’ll also be taken to the best places to sample Osaka’s famous street foods such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Ride the Sagano Romantic Train to Arashiyama
An ideal day trip into the countryside when visiting Osaka, the Sagano Romantic Train offers a charming ride on a vintage train with open-air carriages. The train takes you on a scenic ride through the lush Hozugawa Ravine and the ride isespecially stunning during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. Upon arriving in Arashiyama, explore the serene Bamboo Grove, known as one of the top filming locations in Japan, and the historic Togetsukyo Bridge. Finish off the trip with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that create a mesmerizing pathway through the forest.
Enjoy a Luxury Stay at a Traditional Ryokan
If you’re feeling like a night away from the hustle and bustle of Osaka city, why not indulge in a stay at a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) in natural surroundings, such as the Amami Onsen Nanten-en or Mino-o Forest Inn. These luxurious inns outside the city offer an authentic experience with tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, private hot spring baths, meticulously manicured Japanese gardens, and exquisite seasonal kaiseki cuisine. Staying at a ryokan allows you to experience Japanese hospitality at its finest, making it a perfect way to conclude your journey in Osaka with relaxation and cultural immersion.
