22+ top tourist attractions & must see places in Osaka

Famous Osaka tourist attractions are the key to a rich picture of culture, history, entertainment… in a variety of colors. So, where to go and what to do in Osaka even though for visitors who have been there? Find the answer right in this article with 22+ top tourist attractions & must see places in Osaka in this article!

Osaka Metro Pass

Although only ranked 46th in area out of 47 prefectures, Osaka is in the top 3 most important economic centers of Japan. So if you are planning to travel to the Land of the Rising Sun, don’t let Osaka be “forgotten” from your itinerary.

With a series of attractive attractions, shopping centers and bustling neighborhoods, Osaka has many interesting things waiting for you to explore. Let’s find out what this city has to offer through the most popular attractions and entertainment spots!

Dotonbori

Standing out with its “super huge” signs shining brightly on the riverbank at night, Osaka Dotonbori tourist center will overwhelm you with its magical shimmering beauty. This is where the dynamism of Osaka city is expressed. What could be more wonderful than immersing yourself in the Osaka River, joining in the lantern hanging festival here in the summer? In addition, this place also gathers many delicious, nutritious local food stalls, at affordable prices, very worth experiencing.

Universal Studios Japan – Famous Osaka Theme Park

Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass

Universal Studios Japan is a theme park that attracts millions of tourists every year. This is a world that fully recreates the scenes of animated films such as: Jaws, Jurassic Park The Ride, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, … In the summer, there is also a water gun festival and a Halloween festival called “Street Zombie” in the fall. You can have fun all day here until you are exhausted.

Kuromon Market Osaka – Enjoy Shopping, Eating, Having Fun

Kuromon Market is considered the kitchen of Osaka, a traditional market that provides fresh food, seafood and kitchen utensils. This is a place not to be missed to enjoy when you want to learn about the cuisine of the cherry blossom country. With about 180 shops in a row, you can buy fresh seafood at reasonable prices.

Umeda Sky Building – Enjoying Osaka’s Views

Umeda Sky Building has a unique structure, quite similar to the Arc de Triomphe. In particular, the rooftop of Umeda Sky Building is a romantic dating spot, where love sublimates and sweet moments are preserved. Not only that, this place is also honored to be on the list of the top 100 most beautiful night views in Japan, a testament to the magical beauty when night falls. When you step onto the 40th floor of the building, you will feel like you are lost in the clouds, watching the whole magical city of Osaka. A truly memorable experience, right?

Umeda Sky Building & Kuchu Teien Observatory Ticket in Osaka

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living is a place that will help you better understand the changes of Osaka during the Edo period. Entering the museum, you will be amazed by a vividly recreated neighborhood, faithfully recreating the image of Osaka about 200 years ago. The houses are built to the exact size, stretching vertically, giving you the feeling of being lost in an ancient town. On the upper floor, there are videos showing houses in the Meiji, Taisho and Showa eras, which are very interesting to experience.

Osaka Museum of History – Preserving Precious Spiritual Values

For those who are passionate about history and want to explore the golden marks of the past, the Osaka Museum of History is a destination not to be missed. Let’s embark on a journey through space and time, returning to the heroic history of Japan. Here, you will be immersed in the atmosphere of ancient feudal times.

The museum preserves many precious relics remaining from the magnificent Naniwa Palace, built in the 7th century. You will also have the opportunity to admire priceless historical documents from the Asuka Period, an important period in the formation and development of the Land of the Rising Sun.

Legoland Discovery Central in Osaka (#must see places in Osaka)

If you are looking for a fun, colorful and imaginative destination for the whole family, especially the little ones, then Legoland Discovery Center is the perfect choice. Built from thousands of colorful Lego pieces, this place will be a miniature world full of creativity and fun.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka Ticket

Children and those who love creativity can unleash their imagination and build their own dream city from millions of Lego bricks. Not only that, you also have the opportunity to enjoy a vivid 4D movie and experience exciting Lego building activities.

Harukas 300 Observatory – See Osaka from an Impressive Height

Explore Osaka and you will have the opportunity to see the whole city from the “most terrifying” height in Japan. Harukas 300 Observatory, the tallest building in the land of the Rising Sun, opens up a breathtaking 360-degree view of Osaka. This place is not only a sightseeing spot but also a luxurious entertainment complex with high-class restaurants, romantic art spaces, and enchanting 3D light shows, promising unforgettable moments.

HARUKAS 300 Observatory Ticket in Osaka

Tempozan Osaka Ferris Wheel

Don’t miss the exciting experience with the Tempozan Ferris Wheel when coming to Osaka, especially with #teamKlook. This giant Ferris wheel offers a great “window” for you to see the skyline of Japan’s third most populous city. The unique feature of Tempozan is its ability to change color according to the weather, creating impressive and unique scenes.

teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka

teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Ticket

Tucked away in the southeast corner of Nagai Park, teamLab Botanical Garden is more than just a botanical garden; it’s a place where digital art meets the vibrant world of plants. During the day, you can stroll among over 1,200 species of plants. At night, the lights from teamLab’s artworks awaken the entire garden, creating a mesmerizing experience. An ideal place for those who love nature and contemporary art.

Solaniwa Onsen Osaka

Launched in 2019, Solaniwa Onsen has quickly become one of the most prominent hot spring complexes in Japan. Covering an area of ​​up to 16,500m², it recreates the scenery of Edo-era Japan, harmoniously combining natural hot springs, hot stone baths, and health spa services. An ideal destination for those who want to temporarily put aside the hustle and bustle of life and immerse themselves in absolute relaxation.

Osaka Castle – Famous Symbol of Osaka City

Osaka Castle Ticket

Located along with Nagoya and Kumamoto, Osaka Castle is considered one of the Three Great National Treasures of Japan. The castle was built in the late 16th century and was the center of power under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. When spring comes, more than 3,000 cherry trees bloom in the park surrounding the castle, creating a beautiful interplay between history and nature, making it difficult for anyone who visits to forget.

Tsukenkaku Osaka Tower

103 meters high and bearing the imprint of the Showa period, Tsutenkaku Tower is not only a sightseeing spot but also a typical cultural symbol of Osaka. In the tower is a statue of Billiken – a symbol of luck and happiness. People believe that if you rub Billiken’s feet, your wishes will come true. In addition, the neon lights on the tower at night are also used to predict the weather, an interesting detail that not everyone knows.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

If you are passionate about the mysterious ocean world, prepare to explore Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Here, you will be immersed in a vivid underwater world, where majestic sharks, giant whales, playful sea lions and hundreds of other marine species await. The special feature is the giant fish tanks, up to 34m long and 9m deep, realistically recreating the life of marine creatures, making you feel like you are lost in a completely different world.

Tenjinbashi Suji Shopping Street Osaka

JR Kansai Mini Pass

Are you a shopaholic? Then Tenjinbashi Suji Shopping Street will definitely satisfy you. Known as the longest shopping street in Japan, this place attracts millions of visitors every year. With a length of 3km and about 600 shops next to each other, you can find anything you need, from household items, fashion clothes, to shoes, bags… All are sold at extremely affordable prices.

JR West Kansai Area Pass

Osaka Tenmangu – Famous Shrine for Praying for Good Studying

Visit Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan, located in the west of the city. Especially during exam season, this place becomes a sacred destination for students to pray for luck. During the festival, you will witness brilliant fireworks, colorful traditional costumes, and majestic processions of gods, bringing a jubilant and memorable festival atmosphere.

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka City

Kyoto and Nara Day Tour

Unlike most Shinto shrines that are influenced by Chinese architecture, Sumiyoshi Taisha has a completely Japanese style – called Sumiyoshi-zukuri. This is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, built in the 3rd century, before Buddhism was introduced.

Located about 30 minutes by train from the center of Osaka, this is an ideal stop to explore traditional spirituality amidst modern life. In particular, the Sorihashi curved bridge stands out with its brilliant red color and the surrounding peaceful space will make you feel the harmony between the past and the present. If you love traditional Japanese culture, Sumiyoshi Taisha is a destination not to be missed.

Hozenji Yokocho Old Street Osaka

Hidden behind the modern buildings and bustling streets is Hozenji Yokocho – a small alley full of nostalgia, famous after appearing in the novel Meoto Zenzai. With ancient stone pavements, dim lanterns and a moss-covered Buddha statue at Hozenji Temple, this place takes you to an old, quiet and poetic Osaka. Spend a few minutes wandering here, you will not only have the opportunity to take beautiful photos like paintings but also clearly feel the slow pace of life rarely seen in a crowded city.

Osaka Bunraku Theater

Have you ever heard of a type of puppetry where each character is controlled by three artists at the same time? That is Bunraku – a theatrical art that originated in the 18th century, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Not only is it a skillful performance, Bunraku also tells emotional stories that deeply reflect the life and morality of the Edo period. At the National Bunraku Theater Osaka, you will witness the harmonious coordination between puppets, shamisen instruments and emotional narration – an unforgettable artistic experience.

Mino Otaku Park Osaka

When you want to “escape the city” without going too far, Minoo Park is the ideal choice. Located in the north of Osaka, only about 30 minutes by train from the center, this park is famous for the 33-meter-high Minoo Falls, ranked in the top 100 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. Especially in autumn, the trail leading to the waterfall is covered in the bright red color of maple leaves, creating a scene like in an ancient painting. In addition, the crispy fried maple leaves – a local specialty – are also an interesting thing that you should not miss.

Experience Workshops in Osaka

Want to bring back a piece of “Japanese soul” as a souvenir? Try traditional craft workshops in Osaka! From making scented sachets, carving wooden spoons, weaving, to tie-dyeing or creating artistic tiles – each activity not only brings creative joy but also helps you understand more deeply the meticulous spirit of the Japanese. A big plus: the products you make can be brought back as unique and meaningful gifts, more meaningful than ready-made ones!

Take a Santa Maria Osaka Cruise

Want to change the wind a bit in your Osaka itinerary? Experience the Santa Maria cruise to bring a new wind. The ship simulates Christopher Columbus’s sailboat, taking you for 45 minutes around Osaka Bay. From the deck, you can admire the city view from a different perspective – where the sunset blends the sea and the modern horizon. An interesting choice to end the day of discovery in the style of “Spain in Japan”.

Frequently Asked Questions When Traveling to Osaka

When is the best time to visit Osaka?

Spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) are the peak tourist seasons in Osaka. Spring has cherry blossoms, which are perfect for walking and taking photos at Kema Sakuranomiya Park or Osaka Castle. Autumn is ideal for viewing red leaves and enjoying the cool, fresh air. Summer is a bit hot and crowded, while winter is suitable if you want to experience the year-end festival atmosphere and go shopping.

Which airport is closest to Osaka?

You can fly to Kansai International Airport (KIX) – the main airport of the Kansai region, about 50 minutes from central Osaka. This is where flights from Vietnam and many Asian countries are received. Another option is Itami Airport (ITM) if you fly domestically from Tokyo or Hokkaido.

From the airport, you can take the Nankai train, JR Haruka or limousine bus to the center of Namba, Umeda.

What are the means of transportation in Osaka city?

Tourists often travel by subway, JR train, or public bus. You can buy an IC card like ICOCA/PASMO, or choose a day pass like Osaka Amazing Pass, which includes entrance tickets to many famous attractions.

What are the specialties of Osaka?

Osaka street food is extremely famous, especially:

• Takoyaki (grilled octopus balls)
• Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake)
• Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers)
• Yakisoba, Negiyaki, ramen

You can enjoy it in Dotonbori, Shinsekai, or Kuromon Ichiba market.

How many days is enough for a trip to Osaka?

A popular itinerary is 3–5 days, depending on whether you want to combine Kyoto – Nara – Kobe.

• 3 days: visit the main attractions in the city
• 4–5 days: add neighboring areas and Universal Studios Japan

Can I go to Osaka without knowing Japanese?

Absolutely! Japanese people in Osaka are quite friendly, and most of the signs at the train station, airport, and tourist attractions are in English. You should prepare a translation app like Google Translate, download an offline map, and learn a few simple greetings to make the experience more complete.

What are the unique experiences in Osaka?

• Craft workshops: making scented bags, dyeing fabric, wood carving, pottery
• Onsen bathing: at Solaniwa Onsen – Edo style
• Santa Maria cruise: viewing Osaka Bay in Western style
• Enjoy Bunraku: traditional Japanese puppetry
• Check-in Hozenji Yokocho old town: nostalgia in the heart of the city

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Osaka you can refer to

• Osaka Amazing Pass (Osaka Pick Up & HK/TW Delivery)
• OSAKA Unlimited Travel Pass (1 or 2 Days)
• Osaka Amazing Pass (HK/TW/ICN/Osaka Pick Up & MY Delivery)
• Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass (1 Day/2 Days, Kyoto Pick Up)
• JR West Kansai Pass (1, 2, 3 and 4 Day Rail Pass)
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More
• Limousine Bus Transfers between Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka or Kyoto
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)
• Osaka One-Day Walking Tour
• Arashiyama, Nara & Yasaka Shrine & Hanakomiji OneDay Tour from Osaka
• Osaka Amazing Pass & Osaka e-Pass
• teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Ticket
• Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• Arashiyama & Nara Todai-ji Day Tour from Osaka
• Solaniwa Onsen Ticket in Osaka
• Nara, Todaiji Temple & Kuroshio Market One Day Tour from Osaka
• Sanda Outlet Market, Nara Park & Todaiji Temple Day Tour from Osaka
• ICOCA IC Card
• The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living Ticket

Are you looking for more Osaka travel guide and top things to do in Osaka: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Osaka travel blog — The fullest Osaka city guide for a wonderful trip to Osaka for the first-timers.