30 Secrets & Things to do in Osaka, Japan

Nov. 20, 2023 by Matt van Vuuren

These are my carefully selected 30 hidden secrets & best things to do in Osaka - the kitchen of Japan. I included gems like Endo Sushi, Mr. Kanso, Shinsekai, USJ, Takoyaki, Kushikatsu and Okonomiyaki experiences, Abeno Harukas, the Backstreet Osaka Tour and the insane Osaka Nightlife.

Tips & Advice

Why: 3rd largest city in Japan (after Tokyo & Yokohama)
When: Spring & fall
Best Osaka Cafe: Pablo Cheese Cake
Best Osaka Restaurant: Nigiri Chojiro
Best Osaka Experience: Backstreet Osaka Tour @ $52 USD (10% OFF)
Best Osaka Museum: Osaka Castle
Best Osaka Attractions: USJ and Real Mario Kart Osaka
Accommodation: For the cheapest hotels go to Booking.com
Book Now: Osaka Pub Crawl just $29 USD (10% OFF)

Buy Tickets for Osaka

A decade after my last visit to Osaka, I was struck by the city's enduring charm. Despite the passage of time, Osaka retains its distinctive character, with changes being subtle yet enriching. This guide, enriched with new discoveries, presents the top 30 experiences in Osaka, ensuring a memorable journey in Japan's culinary heartland.

Osaka Map Download (Updated 2024)

OSAKA

Master Map

100+ hours of research went into creating this ultimate map including:
Attractions • Restaurants • Rooftops
Bars • Nightclubs • Walking Routes
and Bonus Tips.

Best Places for Travel in Osaka

1. Osaka Castle
Most iconic building in Osaka complete with observatory deck and a massive moat surrounding it. Great for selfies! Map
2. Endo Sushi
Most epic sushi in Osaka, a bit on the pricey side but a sushi experience you will not easily forget. Order the Ootoro sushi for a mind-blasting flavor explosion.
3. Umeda Sky Building
Most unique building in Japan, the Umeda sky deck is called Kuchu Teien from which you can overlook the entire business district of Osaka, it also has the highest escalators in the world.
4. Gate Tower Building
Most bizarre building in Osaka, rented out 3 floor to the Osaka highway since an entire highway goes straight through the building.
5. Belgian Chappelle
Unique hidden Belgian Chappelle part of the Monterey Hotel Osaka across from the Umeda Sky Building which is an exact replica of a 14th century medieval-style church.
6. Water Clock
Pretty awesome water clock located at Osaka Station at the south exit. It displays the time plus a whole range of cool water drawings.

Begin your exploration in Amerikamura, a vibrant district akin to Tokyo's Harajuku, brimming with eclectic shops and eateries. It's a paradise for breakfast lovers and street photography enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the city's youthful fashion scene.

7. Panbo Pancake Kebab
Pieces of pancake on a skewer including pieces of fruit. In Osaka they call this bizarre contraption the Pancake Kebab.
8. Longsoftcream
The longest ice cream in Japan for just 500 yen, 4 US dollars which will leave you with a cold brain freeze experience.
9. Pablo Cheese Cake
Most famous cheese cake in Japan, Pablo's cheese cakes are so fluffy inside with a beautiful flaky edge that you will most likely order another one.
10. Mr. Kanso
Most bizarre restaurant in Osaka is Mr. Kanso where you can only order food from tin cans from all over the world. A very unique concept since there is no chef, no kitchen and no waiter. Try the stewed grasshoppers!
11. Dotonbori Takoyaki
Osaka is famous for its takoyaki, fried batter balls with a piece of octopus inside. At the Dotonbori you'll be able to find the best takoyaki in Osaka, find the longest lineup for the highest quality balls.
12. Gyoza Hot Dog
Never seen before sandwich, aka the Dotonbori Sandwich which the locals call the Gyoza Hot Dog which is a massive bun with gyoza, yakisoba, mayonnaise, cheese sauce and fries. A calorie bomb unlike you have ever seen!

Osaka Castle in Japan - most iconic landmark

Osaka Castle, the city's crown jewel, is a must-visit. Its top-floor observatory offers breathtaking views and a peek into the lives of ancient warlords. Surrounded by a grand moat, this iconic fortress is a perfect backdrop for selfies, encapsulating Osaka's historical grandeur.

13. Giant Japanese Scallops
Perhaps the most delicious I've ever eaten and can be found on the Dotonbori main market street. 400 yen or 3 US dollars for a giant freshly heated scallop.
14. Hozenji Koisan Temple
Behind the Dotonbori madness you find the cozy back alleys that lead to Hozenji Koisan, an ancient temple in the heart of Osaka. Including a statue completely covered in moss.
15. Okonomiyaki Hatsuse
The famous Osaka pancake is called Okonomiyaki which you can make yourself at Okonomiyaki Hatsuse, don't worry, English instructions are provided. Map
16. Nigiri Chojiro
Considered by locals to be the best affordable conveyor belt sushi in Osaka. High quality sushi for great prices. Order the nama-salmon and chutoro tuna, make sure to order from the chef directly.
17. USJ
Universal Studio Japan is Japan's most famous theme park after Tokyo Disneyland, includes plenty of roller-coasters and amazing shows. Make sure to attend the Halloween Horror Nights walk during September and October. Map
18. Takoyaki Museum
Next to Universal Studios Japan you'll find the Takoyaki Museum with 6 of the best takoyaki shops from Osaka. So you can go on an all out takoyaki adventure here. Map

Kaiyukan, Japan's largest aquarium, showcases an impressive Great Barrier Reef exhibit. Its vast indoor tanks offer a mesmerizing aquatic journey. Pair your visit with a meal at Endo Sushi in the nearby Osaka Fish Market for an unparalleled sushi experience.

19. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of world's most massive aquariums. Entrance is 2300 yen or 21 US dollars, their great barrier reef collection is about a 2 kilometer walk through the aquarium. Massive! Map
20. Maishima Incineration Plant
Most bizarre garbage incineration plant you've ever seen, complete with museum and unique outdoor art. Another great spot for selfies, it almost looks like a palace. Map
21. Shinsekai
My favorite area in Osaka for its cozy atmosphere, adorable restaurants with brilliant decor and mouth-watering foods. Make sure you try Kushikatsu here especially the A5 Kobe beef on a skewer and Lotus root! Map
22. Tsutenkaku Tower
Get a better few of the Shinsekai shopping district by climbing the Tsutenkaku tower. Entrance is only 500 yen, 4 US dollars. Map
23. Classic Game Arcades
Next to the Tsutenkaku Tower you'll find many classic arcades with arcades ranging from Golgo 13 to Street Fighter II and Tetris, a nerds paradise!
24. Kushikatsu
Another famous Osaka dinner experience is Kushikatsu, primarily found in the Shinsekai district. Make sure to check Google Maps for the highest rated ones in the district since quality varies quite a bit. Map

Longsoftcream in Osaka

In Amerikamura, discover the Long Softcream, Japan's longest ice cream, and interact with the area's friendly locals. For dinner, venture to Shinsekai, where you can indulge in Kushikatsu, a local specialty of lightly fried skewered delights, with a unique dipping rule to enhance the communal dining experience.

25. Abeno Harukas
Nearby the Shinsekai district you'll find the tallest building in japan. Entrance fee is 1500 yen, 14 US dollars but offers incredible views of Osaka from the 60th floor. Tip: visit at night! Map
26. Nambayasaka Shrine
Most bizarre shrine I've ever seen, basically a giant head which is Namba's guardian deity making it a great spot for selfies. Map
27. Round One Stadium
No visit to Japan is complete without visiting a massive game center also known as arcades. My favorite video game at the arcade is Initial D, the famous car racing game with Eurobeat music. Map
28. Osaka Nightlife
Just like Tokyo, Osaka also has an incredible nightlife with some of the best bars and nightclubs in Japan. Do not miss out during the weekend! Make sure to watch my full Osaka Nightlife video. Map
29. Shinkansen
See Japan's country-side by traveling from Tokyo to Osaka by high-speed bullet train, if you spending more than 7 days in Japan make sure to buy the Japan Rail Pass for massive discounts! Map
30. Pocket Wifi
Stay connected in Osaka at all times by pocket Wifi, for just $5 US dollars per day. Click here for a 10% discount on a Japan Pocket Wifi router!

Experience Osaka's culinary creativity at Okonomiyaki Hatsuse, where you can craft your own version of the city's famed savory pancake, guided by English instructions. For panoramic city views, visit the Harukas 300 observatory deck at the Abeno Harukas building, especially captivating at sunset.

eating okonomiyaki with my friends at Okonomiyaki Hatsuse in Osaka

Dotonbori is a sensory feast, with its canal cruises, vibrant eateries, and iconic street foods, including Giant Japanese Scallops and the substantial Dotonbori Sandwich. Osaka’s allure extends beyond these experiences, with hidden gems like the Belgian Chappelle, a 14th-century church replica, and the innovative Water Clock at Osaka Station.

Delve into Osaka's quirky side at Panbo Pancake Kebab, Longsoftcream, and Pablo Cheese Cake, each offering unique culinary delights. For adventurous eaters, Mr. Kanso's canned food menu and Dotonbori's Takoyaki provide a taste of the local cuisine's playful spirit.

downtown Dotonbori - entrance to Shinsaibashi district in Osaka

Explore architectural marvels like the Umeda Sky Building and the Gate Tower Building, with its highway passage. Immerse yourself in history at Hozenji Koisan Temple, nestled in the serene alleys behind the bustling Dotonbori. For an all-encompassing Osaka experience, visit Nigiri Chojiro for affordable sushi, marvel at the Tsutenkaku Tower, and relive the nostalgia in classic game arcades. Abeno Harukas offers night-time cityscapes, while Nambayasaka Shrine presents unique photo opportunities.

Experience Osaka's modernity at Round One Stadium and the vibrant Osaka Nightlife, one of the best nightlife scenes in East Asia. Also, do not forget to visit the incredible Universal Studios Japan and there annual Halloween Horror Walk! Travel efficiently with the Shinkansen and stay connected with Pocket Wifi Station or eSIM with a 10% discount. This guide aims to reveal the multifaceted allure of Osaka, a city that's more than just a culinary paradise, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that beckon travelers to delve deeper and savor its unique charm.

downtown Dotonbori