2024 Osaka Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)
Osaka is the center of Japan’s Western region, known for being a hub of gourmet cooking, the nation’s water capital and the “Vice President” of Japan’s cities. A symbol of the metropolis, Osaka Castle is a must-see attraction that is representative of the continuous historical changes in the city. Universal Studios is another destination well worth a visit, with its Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minions and Sesame Street attractions all waiting for a fun-filled family visit. If you’ve got a small child in tow, fun awaits at the mysterious underwater world at Osaka Aquarium, or the nearby Tempozan Ferris Wheel from the top of which you can get a beautiful view of Osaka Bay. In terms of shopping, Osaka Umeda District in the north, Namba in the south, along with Shinsaibashi and Midosuji offer endless stores and malls to discover. Be sure to visit a couple times in case you miss something your first time in Osaka.
Peak Season
March-April, July-November
Today's Weather
Mostly clear 20-28℃
Popular Attractions
Universal Studios Japan
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Shinsaibashisuji
Dotombori
Universal Studios Japan: The Best Amusement Park 🎢
#amusement
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka is widely regarded as one of the best amusement parks in the world. With its thrilling rides, world-class attractions, and immersive themed areas, it’s an unforgettable experience for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, or Super Mario, USJ offers something for everyone.
Tips for Visiting:
Arrive Early: USJ can get very crowded, so it’s best to arrive before the park opens to maximize your day.
Express Pass: Consider purchasing an Express Pass to skip the long lines for popular rides.
Explore Midweek: If possible, visit on weekdays to avoid large weekend crowds.
Plan Ahead: Some areas like Super Nintendo World may require advanced entry tickets, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
Located in Osaka, USJ is easily accessible from the city center via the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station.
#UniversalStudiosJapan #Osaka #HarryPotterWorld #JapanTravel
Stunning Sunset at Osaka Castle 🏯
#bestsunset
A few days ago, we witnessed an amazing sunset at Osaka Castle! This iconic landmark is not only a must-see for its stunning architecture and rich history but also offers breathtaking views during sunset.
To get there, you can take the Osaka Metro to Tanimachi 4-chome Station (Tanimachi Line) or Osaka Business Park Station (Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line). From either station, it's just a short walk to the castle. The beautiful gardens surrounding the castle make for a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view.
#OsakaCastle #ExploreJapan #JapanTravel
5 Days 4 Nights Osaka and Kyoto Trip
Sharing our itinerary with everyone:
📍Location: 🇯🇵
September 2 (Osaka)
• 6:00 - Arrive at Kansai Airport, go through immigration, collect luggage, and purchase an ICOCA card.
• 7:30 - Take the Nankai Electric Railway Rapit to Namba Station (about 40 minutes).
• 8:30 - Arrive at Sotetsu FRESA INN Osaka Namba Station, drop off luggage.
• 9:00 - 18:00 - Visit Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, Namba, Nipponbashi, and Tennoji.
• 19:00-20:00 - Abeno Harukas 300 Observatory
• 20:00 - 21:00 - Return to the hotel, take the Sakaisuji Line subway back to Namba Station, and rest at the hotel.
September 3 (Universal Studios Japan)
• 6:50 - Take the train from Namba Station to Kujo, transfer to the Hanshin Namba Line to Nishikujo Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station (about 45 minutes).
• 8:00 - 19:00 - Arrive at Universal Studios Japan, spend the whole day there. Have lunch and dinner inside the park.
• 19:00 - Return to the hotel and rest.
September 4 (Kyoto Day Trip)
• 9:00 - Check out and head to Kyoto, take the Midosuji Line subway to Yodoyabashi Station, transfer to the Keihan Main Line train to Kyoto Sanjo Station (about 1 hour).
• 10:30 - Arrive in Kyoto, after reaching Sanjo Station, walk or take public transportation to Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, check-in and drop off luggage (allow 30 minutes).
• 11:00 - Head to Fushimi Inari Taisha, take the Keihan Main Line from Shijo Kawaramachi Station to Fushimi Inari Station (about 15 minutes), visit Fushimi Inari Taisha (about 2 hours).
• 13:00 - Take the Keihan Main Line back to Shichijo Station, transfer to City Bus No. 206 (towards Higashiyama), get off at Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop (about 15 minutes).
• 13:30 - Kiyomizu-dera, walk from Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop (about 5 minutes) to Kiyomizu-dera, entrance fee 400 yen (about 1 hour).
• 14:30 - Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka, walk from Kiyomizu-dera to visit Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka (about 1.5 hours).
• 16:00 - Hanamikoji Street (Gion), walk to Hanamikoji Street, explore this beautiful traditional district (about 1 hour).
• 17:00 - Yasaka Shrine, walk to Yasaka Shrine (about 10 minutes), visit Yasaka Shrine (about 30 minutes).
• 17:40 - Dinner, have dinner near Gion or Yasaka Shrine (about 1 hour).
• 18:30 - Return to the hotel, walk or take public transportation back to the hotel (about 15 minutes).
Rest early
September 5 (Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji)
• 9:20 - Head to Arashiyama
• 10:45 - Leisurely walk to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
• 11:30 - Take the JR train to Umahori Station (towards Kameoka) (about 15 minutes), arrive at Arashiyama Station at 11:50.
• 11:30 - Take the Sagano Scenic Railway (about 30 minutes).
• 11:50 - Arrive at Arashiyama.
• 12:00 - Visit the Bamboo Grove
• 12:35 - Visit Tenryu-ji Temple. After exiting from the north gate of Tenryu-ji, you can directly enter the Bamboo Grove and then reach Nonomiya Shrine.
• 13:30 - Nonomiya Shrine
• 13:00 - Stroll around Arashiyama Main Street.
• 14:40 - Take the Randen Arashiyama Main Line to Kitano-Hakubaicho Station (about 20 minutes).
• 15:00 - Take Bus No. 205 to Kinkaku-ji Michi Bus Stop (about 30 minutes).
• 15:30 - Arrive at Kinkaku-ji.
• 16:50 - Visit Kinkaku-ji (about 1 hour).
• 16:50 - Take Bus No. 205 back to Kawaramachi Sanjo (about 30 minutes), walk back to the hotel (about 3 minutes).
• 17:30 - Arrive at the hotel.
September 6 (Osaka)
• 10:00 - 11:00 - Arrive at Umeda, store luggage in lockers or carry it with you.
• 11:30 - 20:00 - Umeda, Umeda Shopping District, HEP FIVE Mall.
• 22:25 - Arrive at Kansai Airport Terminal 1, check-in for the flight.
• 23:00 - Flight departs for Taiwan.
Summary:
In reality, we found that the schedule was too tight and we rushed to too many places, which was very tiring. We even missed some places, like on 9/4 we planned to go to Fushimi Inari but ended up only visiting Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine due to time constraints. We managed to visit most places, but next time we won't plan such a tight schedule or will add an extra day to avoid rushing. If anyone has a better schedule, please share it with me. Thank you! 😍
【Osaka】Travel Back in Time to Old Residences and Lifestyles.
This museum goes beyond just displaying homes from the Edo period in Osaka; it offers an immersive experience. The streets of old Osaka are recreated, making you feel as if you've traveled back in time. There is also a section introducing modern Osaka. Directly connected to the subway station and indoors, it's perfect even on rainy days. Highly recommended for those who want a different kind of Osaka sightseeing experience.
✱-----------------------------------------------
【Name】Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
【Location】6-4-20 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka City
8th Floor, Osaka Municipal Housing Information Center
【Access】Direct connection from Exit 3 of Tenjinbashisuji 6-chome Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line or Sakaisuji Line, or Hankyu Railway
【Hours】10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)
【Closed】Tuesdays (open on holidays), New Year's holidays (12/29 - 1/3), and occasional temporary closures
【Admission】Adults: 600 yen, High school and university students: 300 yen, Free for junior high school students and younger
Visit Date: September 2024
-----------------------------------------------✱
Tempozan Ferris Wheel offers a panoramic view of Osaka's coastline.
Tempozan Ferris Wheel, located in Tempozan Harbor Village at Osaka Port, is one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world. Standing at 112.5 meters tall, it was once the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, offering spectacular views of the city and harbor.
The Tempozan Ferris Wheel features 60 gondolas, including 8 with transparent floors, allowing thrill-seekers to challenge their limits and enjoy a bird's-eye view of Osaka. Each gondola is marked with surrounding landmarks, making it easy for visitors to identify sights such as Osaka Port, Tsunashima Bridge, Tempozan Bridge, and Mount Rokko.
💰Cost per person:
Adults: 800 yen (ages 3 and up)
Free rides with the Osaka Amazing Pass.
🕰️Operating hours:
Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Weekends and public holidays: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
📍Address: Osaka Ferris Wheel (Tempozan Ferris Wheel) 1-1-10 Kaigan-dori, Osaka, Japan
🗓️Itinerary:
There are many attractions around the Tempozan Ferris Wheel worth visiting, including the Osaka Aquarium, the Santa Maria replica sailing ship, and Legoland Discovery Center Osaka.
Osaka's Most Famous Shrine - Sumiyoshi Taisha
Sumiyoshi Taisha in Osaka is one of Japan's oldest and most important shrines, located in Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka City. Established over 1800 years ago by Empress Jingū, it serves as the head shrine for over 2,300 Sumiyoshi shrines nationwide. Sumiyoshi Taisha enshrines the guardian deities of seafaring, known as the Sumiyoshi Sanjin, and attracts numerous worshippers and tourists annually.
Sumiyoshi Taisha is renowned for its unique architectural style and historical cultural heritage. The shrine features four main halls, all designated as National Treasures, showcasing the ancient Sumiyoshi-zukuri architectural style. The famous Sorihashi Bridge (Taiko Bridge) is one of the shrine's symbols, with its red arch standing out magnificently against the lush green backdrop. The shrine grounds also house many ancient trees and cultural properties, offering a sense of long-standing history.
The night market around Sumiyoshi Taisha is another highlight. During festivals or special events, numerous stalls pop up near the shrine, offering a variety of foods and souvenirs. These night markets not only allow visitors to taste authentic Japanese snacks but also to experience the local customs and lively atmosphere.
Sumiyoshi Taisha is open year-round
Visiting hours: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Delving into the Soul of Osaka: A Visit to the History Museum
The Osaka Museum of History is an excellent place to explore the rich history and culture of Osaka. Located in the heart of the city, the museum showcases a variety of artifacts and exhibits from ancient to modern times, allowing visitors to gain a deep understanding of the city's evolution. The museum's architecture itself is also very striking, blending modern design with historical elements.
Here, I can see many precious exhibits, such as ancient textiles, pottery, and various artworks related to Osaka. The museum's multimedia displays, in particular, make me feel the pulse of history, as if I am traveling back in time.
British Afternoon Tea in Yodoyabashi, Osaka from 2100 yen
While there may be an additional charge of a few hundred yen depending on the cake and tea you choose, you can enjoy afternoon tea starting from 2,100 yen. You can also select cakes from the nearby shop 'Old Rose Garden.' The food and atmosphere are exceptional, truly giving you a London experience in Yodoyabashi. Be sure to make a reservation and enjoy a luxurious cafe time.
✱-----------------------------------------------
【Name】OFICINA DEL CAFE
【Location】B1F, HK Imahashi Building, 4-3-18 Imahashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka-fu
【Access】About a 2-minute walk from Yodoyabashi Station on the Midosuji Subway Line
【Business Hours】11:00-21:00 (Wed, Thu, Fri), 11:00-18:00 (Tue, Sat) *Check the official website for lunch and afternoon tea hours
【Closed】Sunday, Monday, Holidays
Visit Date: September 2024
-----------------------------------------------✱
Afternoon Tea Near Osaka Station for 1,500 Yen!
The River Cafe is popular for its healthy menu. Reservations are not available, but you can order the afternoon tea set after 2:00 PM. The menu changes seasonally and is available for individuals. The bite-sized portions are easy to eat. Recommended for those who want to enjoy affordable and casual afternoon tea.
✱-----------------------------------------------
【Name】Umeda Hankyu Sanbangai River Cafe
【Location】B2F, South Building, Hankyu Sanbangai, 1-1-3 Shibata, Kita-ku, Osaka City
【Access】About a 1-minute walk from Hankyu Umeda Station, about a 1-minute walk from Umeda Station on the Midosuji Subway Line
【Business Hours】11:00 AM - 10:30 PM
【Closed】Irregular holidays
Visit Date: September 2024
-----------------------------------------------✱
The highly cost-effective "Osaka Namba Hiyori Hotel".
Japan (Osaka + Kyoto) Family Trip 5️⃣ - Osaka Namba Hiyori Hotel + Surroundings
This hotel offers great value for money and is conveniently located right at 🚄 Namba Station. It's very easy to get to the airport, Kuromon Market, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi Shopping Street, Namba Underground Shopping Mall, Namba Shrine, and Kizu Market—all within a 10-minute walk. Super convenient! 👍🏻
✨ Just downstairs from the hotel, within 20 steps, you'll find Daikoku Drugstore, McDonald's, and a convenience store. Truly convenient! 🤭
Besides its prime location, the hotel facilities are also very comprehensive. The rooms aren't very large, but they are spacious enough to open a 29” suitcase and still have room to move around. 👍🏻 The rooms come with a bathtub, hair curler, shoe dryer, and even a foot massager, perfect for relieving travel fatigue. 👏🏻
Additionally, the hotel has an ice machine and a washing machine. Surprisingly, they offer free tea rice and drinks daily, and there are small gifts in the lobby. Kids even get a special kids' package, which is very thoughtful. 💞
🏬 Osaka Namba Hiyori Hotel 🏬
📍 〒556-0011 3-1-2 Namba Chuo, Osaka, Japan
Exciting experience at Universal Studio Japan 🇯🇵
#amusement
Universal Studios renowned as one of the most crowded theme park in the world. As of that, if you don't have the express pass or even you won't gonna buy one, I highly recommend you to wake up early and get ready to explore the whole attractions in USJ because everybody was already waiting at the entrance gate even it is not opened yet! You can actually hit all the famous attractions without it.
First thing to do which most of visitor want to have is finding a machine to secure your visit to Super Nintendo World. The location is under to the roller coaster nearby American Restaurant. You can also book a slot through the USJ Apps and that is all FREE!
One more thing, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey must be the top notch visit as you will have an experience most likely you are in the Hogwarts by using the VR glasses which will give you more excitement as if that was realistic feelings!
Additional experience, buy some unique snacks in every corner of USJ. I tried that Super Mario SunFlower 🌻 cookies while waiting the time slot to Super Nintendo World.
USJ offers you an unforgettable experiences for every visitor. It is perfect for experience seekers!
📍Universal Studio Japan, Osaka 🇯🇵
#100waysoftravel #osaka #universalstudios #japan #holiday #japantrip
✨ Memorable family trip to Osaka, Japan 🇯🇵
#familytravel
This is one of my favorite family trip as Japan is one of my favorite country. So in the same time I got two of my favorite 😆
As we all love cute things in Japan also anime lover, Universal Studio Japan in Osaka was our top notch list to visit!
We had so much fun there which exceed our expectations. That was amazing!
Harry Potter castle was our most favorite theme park, most of our time spent there. The castle looks magnificent, the crowd was massive and also you could buy a magic stick on the store. Once you buy it, you will try that magic stick at certain place as if you are a true magician! Love it 😍
During our visit, we tried a lot of snacks and cookies in USJ area which is so good to try once.
📍Osaka, Japan
#osaka #japan #universalstudios #cherryblossom2024
Namba Yasaka Shrine
⛰【Attraction Guide】
🚗Transportation Guide:
Take subway to Namba Station, Exit 32, and walk for about 8 minutes
🕙Opening Hours:
06:00-17:00
🌟Highlights:
The lion-shaped shrine is very distinctive. You can arrange to visit Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi at the same time. The shrine is not big, and it takes about 20 minutes to visit.
It's a great place to take photos.
📌Tips:
There are some distinctive buildings nearby, you can take a walk and see. It takes about 8 minutes to walk from Yasaka Shrine to Dotonbori.
A Trip to Osaka: Full of Excitement
A trip to Osaka is full of excitement, from Shinsaibashi to Universal Studios, and then to Tsutenkaku, each stop leaves you wanting more.
⛩️At Shinsaibashi, you can indulge in the joy of shopping. This area is filled with various boutiques, specialty stores, and large shopping centers. 🍣Whether it's fashionable clothing or unique snacks, your needs will be met. The nightlife in Shinsaibashi is even more vibrant, 🌆with colorful neon lights making the city look like a dream.
🎡Next, head to Universal Studios, a paradise for anime and movie fans. 🎢Ride thrilling roller coasters and watch spectacular shows, as if you are in a fantasy world. 🏰Both adults and children can find their own happiness here.
🏯Finally, visit Tsutenkaku, an iconic landmark of Osaka known for its unique appearance and stunning views. 🏙️From the observation deck, you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Osaka city and feel the charm and vitality of this city. 🌁
A trip to Osaka is not only a visual feast but also a journey for the soul.
An Energetic Art Museum in Osaka
Located on the 27th floor of the Umeda Sky Building, this museum offers the world's first 3D images that allow you to step into the paintings. The energetic exhibits are always impressive no matter how many times you see them. Unusually for an art museum, most of the works can be photographed (with signs indicating non-photographable pieces). After your visit, you might enjoy soaking in the atmosphere at the Sky Cafe. This museum is highly recommended for sightseeing in Osaka.
✱-----------------------------------------------
[Facility Name] Koji Kinutani Tenku Art Museum
[Location] 27th Floor, Tower West, Umeda Sky Building, 1-1-30 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Osaka City
[Opening Hours]
Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Fri, Sat, Day before holidays: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
(Last admission 30 minutes before closing)
[Closed] Tuesdays, New Year's holidays, during exhibit changes (open on holidays and closed the following weekday)
[Admission Fee]
General: 1,300 yen
University, High School, Middle School Students: 800 yen
Elementary School Students and younger: Free
Visit Date: September 2024
-----------------------------------------------✱
Universal Studios Japan in Osaka
Visiting Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is a must! The park offers a variety of attractions that will satisfy both adults and children. It's recommended to stay at a nearby hotel for convenience. If you're on a budget, there are affordable hotels just one station away. This allows you to queue up early in the morning. To avoid long waits (average 1.5 hours), consider purchasing express passes. Buying four express passes should suffice, and you can spend some time in line for the rest. Generally, you can enjoy six attractions without any issues. After a fun-filled day, there are many restaurants and shops near the park where you can enjoy a meal and buy souvenirs to end your day on a high note.
A Tranquil Place of Faith
Although visiting shrines was not our primary goal during our trip to Japan, out of respect for spiritual beliefs, it turned out to be a very rewarding experience. If you have to choose one shrine to visit in Osaka, even without any religious motivation, it should undoubtedly be this one.
Sumiyoshi Taisha exudes an unparalleled sense of tranquility, standing in stark contrast to the bustling city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in harmony with nature. The architectural details of the shrine, along with the intricate wood carvings and colors, showcase the skills of Japanese craftsmen. Every building, majestic torii gate, bridge, sculpture, and painting offers a rich cultural experience.
At the entrance of the shrine, there is a steep curved bridge spanning a rushing stream. You can find smaller adjacent shrines by checking the provided map, and these smaller shrines have some very cool features. On the left side of the shrine, there are three heavy stones. We were told to stand in front of the rocks, clap three times, then lift and lower the stones. Then step back, clap three times again, touch the stones, make a wish, and lift the heavy stones again - if the stones feel lighter than the first time, the wish will come true.
There is no entrance fee, and from where we were in Osaka, it took about 20 minutes to reach 'Sumiyoshi Taisha' NK08 by taking the Nankai Electric Railway Main Line. From the train exit, walk 300 meters forward to find the main approach to Sumiyoshi Taisha.
Whether you are a seeker of religion or simply an admirer of architecture and natural beauty, Sumiyoshi Taisha should not be missed. I highly recommend it!
Osaka Night View Spot, Sea View Ferris Wheel 'Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel.
⏰ Weekdays 10:00~21:00 // Weekends 10:00~22:00
📍 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022 Japan
💰 900 yen per person (e-pass not accepted)
Tempozan is located near the sea, offering a great view of both the sea and the city. I visited in the evening to see the night view, and it was even more impressive with the many bridge views nearby.
Since it's near the sea, the Ferris wheel can sway a bit when it's windy, which can be a bit scary, but at a height of 112.5 meters, the view is even more spectacular.
The higher you go, the more magnificent the view. I recommend seeing it with your own eyes as photos can't capture the full beauty.
The cost is 900 yen per person, and unfortunately, the Osaka e-pass does not include Tempozan.
When visiting Osaka, you must visit Kuromon Ichiba Market.
When traveling to Osaka, besides visiting Shinsaibashi, you must go to Kuromon Ichiba Market. Although it's not very long, the market is known for its fresh seafood and a wide variety of food options. You can enjoy freshly prepared seafood, various grilled skewers, and several good sushi restaurants. The market opens early in the morning, making it a great place to have fresh sashimi for breakfast.
Wizarding Wonders Await: Dive into the Magic of Harry Potter at USJ Osaka
💞Reasons to Recommend:
Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at USJ Osaka is like stepping straight into the pages of the books! 🧙♂️✨ From sipping butterbeer 🍺 to soaring over Hogwarts on thrilling rides, every detail is pure magic. The castle, the shops, even the wands—it's all here! 🏰 Whether you're casting spells or just soaking in the atmosphere, it's an unforgettable adventure for wizards and muggles alike. Don't miss it! 🎢✨#100waysoftravel #mytravelhacks #localguides #usjosaka #harrypotter #themepark
Impressive Lion Head at Namba Yasaka Shrine ⛩️
Just a few minutes walk away from popular shopping area Namba Parks by Namba station, Namba Yasaka Jinja is a small shrine hidden away in the big city of Osaka. It is home to Namba’s guardian deity~ it is believed that the lion has come to eliminate bad luck and drive away evil spirits. Many people come here to wish for good luck and pray for academic improvement.
The shrine is free to enter and doesn’t require a ticket. It is only a small area and the many tourists come to see the large lion head, a very popular spot for photos. The famous Lion Hall is 12 metres tall. It is said that the lion’s mouth swallows evil spirits.
At night time and during festivals, the lion’s eyes can be seen shining as one of the lights in the temple grounds. A very impressive sight to see! 🌟
#mytravelhacks #japantrip #japan #historicallandmarks #localguides #osaka #osakatrip #japanguide
#summerdestinations
Must-visit places in Osaka include:
I’d like to share my favorite and I think this is must visit places in Osaka that I went last time. 😍
1.Osaka Castle - A historical landmark with beautiful gardens and a museum.
2.Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi - A vibrant area famous for its street food, neon lights, and entertainment.
3.Universal Studios Japan - A popular theme park with attractions based on famous movies and characters.
4.Shinsekai - An old neighborhood with retro vibes, featuring Tsutenkaku Tower and local eateries.
5.Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan - One of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing marine life from the Pacific Rim.
#osaka #dontobiri #shinsekai #shinsaibashi #usj #universalstudiojapan #osakaaquarium #kaiyukan #japan #kansai #kix
3-Day Itinerary for Osaka
#myitinerary
#100waysoftravel
#osaka
**3-Day Itinerary for Osaka**
**Day 1: Central Osaka**
- **Morning:** Visit Osaka Castle for history and panoramic views.
- **Afternoon:** Explore street food in Dotonbori.
- **Evening:** Shop in Shinsaibashi Arcade and enjoy city views from Umeda Sky Building.
**Day 2: Culture and History**
- **Morning:** Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine.
- **Afternoon:** Explore Namba Yasaka Shrine and the Osaka Museum of History.
- **Evening:** Relax at Nakanoshima Park.
**Day 3: Modern Attractions**
- **Morning to Afternoon:** Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan.
- **Evening:** Visit the Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Osaka Aquarium, then return to Dotonbori for dinner and nightlife.
Universal Studios - Japan!
#100WaysOfTravel #themeparks
Our Japan itinerary included a visit for Universal. We’ve been to universal Orlando a dozen times, so was excited to see it in Asia.
It cost around £40 for the tickets and hot on everyone’s list is getting in to Nintendo world.
We arrived 1 hour before the park opened, to get a timed entry slot to Nintendo world. We logged in on the app and got a slot for 8:30am.
The park was very busy! We went in July, it was very hot and humid.
They have some old rides like Jaws, which used to be in the Orlando park, so it was a good throwback!
Overall the day was good, long wait times, but that’s expected and some of the best rides where the Japanese animated ones.
Would highly recommend a visit here!
Osaka Guide: 3 Day Itinerary 🇯🇵
Here is a 3 day Osaka itinerary, save this guide for your next trip to Japan! 🇯🇵
Day 1:
📍 Universal Studios Japan ~ check out the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and don’t miss the new Super Nintendo Land! Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Day 2:
📍 Dotonbori ~ huge neon lights and vibrant signs. This entertainment area has shops, restaurants and more.
📍 Nipponbashi ~ head to Den-Den town to find everything anime, manga and electronics.
📍 Tsutenkaku ~ go see the 100m tall tower and get a good luck charm!
Day 3:
📍 Osaka Castle ~ one of the most famous landmarks in Japan and find out some of the history of the country.
📍 Shinsaibashi ~ a large indoor shopping street.
📍 Namba Yasaka ~ this shrine has a huge lion’s head that is said to bring good luck to scholars.
#osaka #osakatrip #japan #japantrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
#summerdestinations
The Best Things to See in Osaka, Japan 🇯🇵
Japan is the perfect summer destination with its warm weather and beautiful sunny days. Most people choose to visit the well known landmarks, but there are so many more things to see!
I spent 6 weeks travelling Japan and here are my highlights from Osaka! Save this guide for your next trip 🇯🇵
📍 Universal Studios Japan: visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and see the newly opened Super Nintendo World!
📍 Osaka Castle: Experience the history of Japan with this iconic landmark.
📍 Dotonbori: a vibrant entertainment district with many shops, restaurants and famous signs!
📍 Tsutenkaku Tower: a 100 metre tall steel tower with views of the city. Don’t forget to get a good luck charm!
#osaka #osakatrip #japan #japantrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
#summerdestinations
Unique Things To Do in Osaka, Japan 🇯🇵 Part 2
Japan is the perfect summer destination with its warm weather and beautiful sunny days. Most people choose to visit the well known landmarks, but there are so many more things to see!
Here are some unique things to do in Osaka that you can’t find anywhere else! Save this guide for your next visit to Japan 🇯🇵
📍 Ghibli Store in Parco, Shinsaibashi ~ with multiple photo opportunities and a fully themed store with all the Ghibli merchandise you can imagine!
📍 Den-Den Town in Nipponbashi ~ here you can find everything anime, manga, character and electronics related.
📍 Amerika-Mura or America Village ~ has a multitude of thrift and vintage stores as well as so much street art.
#osaka #osakatrip #japan #japantrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
#summerdestinations
The Incredible Super Nintendo World at USJ 🇯🇵
I’m so lucky I got to visit Super Nintendo World after it had opened. Located in Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, it is absolutely beyond expectations!
The official park opening time was 9:00am but I had read online they open the gates around 8:00am. I arrived just after 7:00am and secured my spot very close to the front of the queue. Amazingly, they did open the park early and it was a full on sprint to Super Nintendo World!
I didn’t have time to stop and take photos as I entered the land, and I barely even looked around. I was heading straight for Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge. This ride was wild. I’ve never experienced anything like it before. I managed to ride it two more times before 9:00am!!! I eventually managed to figure out what I was actually doing because the first ride was just so overwhelming with the VR headset.
Yoshi’s Adventure is a slower, much more chilled attraction that takes you around his kingdom and then outside to see the land from above. It’s very cute but I feel like they could’ve done more with this.
Throughout the land there are various character meet and greets. You can find Mario & Luigi, Toad and Princess Peach. There was always long lines to meet them!
‼️ If you arrive later, you are required to get a timed entry ticket to enter Super Nintendo World. I managed to get one of these on the day, and re entered the land later in the day!
🌟 I recommend making use of the Single Rider Line for the Mario Kart ride!!!
#summerdestinations #japan #osaka #universalstudiosjapan #universalstudios #supernintendoworld #mytravelhacks #localguides #familytrip
#osakatrip
#summerdestinations
So Much Fun at Universal Studios Japan! 🇯🇵
Located in Osaka, Japan, I had the best day ever at Universal Studios Japan!
🍄 Super Nintendo World was definitely the highlight of my day! Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge is one of the most immerse, crazy rides I have ever been on. The whole land is a wild experience and I was literally in shock! Yoshi’s Adventure is a more chill ride that takes you slowly around the land and through his kingdom.
🪄 The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was exciting as always. I love how everyone buys a wand and dresses like they are a student at Hogwarts! My favourite part of this land is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction. I went in the single rider’s line to avoid the long queues!
🦕 Jurassic Park is a really cool area to explore. Not only does it have the water ride with a huge drop, there is also The Flying Dinosaur. This is a flying rollercoaster and I really enjoyed it!
🏎️ No Limit! Parade might be one of the best parades ever. I’m being serious. The variety of characters is great, but at one point they stop and it turns into a party! Everyone comes into the street and dances together! I loved it!
🎢 Hollywood Dream - The Ride is similar to Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, where you choose a song to listen to while you ride the coaster. But this one has two versions of the ride - one goes backwards!
Overall I had the best day at Universal Studios Japan and I can’t wait to go back again!
#familytrip #mytravelhacks #localguides #universalstudiosjapan #japan #osaka #japantrip
#osakatrip
#themeparks
Ultimate Guide to Osaka, Japan 🇯🇵
Here is an entire list of everything to do in Osaka. There are enough things here to make an itinerary for a week long trip. Save this guide for your next visit to Japan! 🇯🇵
📍 Dotonbori ~ entertainment district with vibrant signs, restaurants and shops.
📍 Namba Yasaka Shrine ~ big lion’s head to fight away bad luck.
📍 Universal Studios Japan
📍 Osaka Castle
📍 Tsutenkaku Tower
📍 Tenmangu Shrine ~ 1000 year old shrine.
📍 Amerika-Mura (America Village) ~ so many thrift shops and street art.
📍 Den-Den Town in Nipponbashi ~ everything anime, manga and electronics.
📍 Hozen-ji ~ sprinkle water on the moss covered Buddhist statue for your wish to come true.
📍 Nakanoshima ~ a sand bank island in the river with many museums and art galleries.
#japan #japantrip #osaka #osakatrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
#summerdestinations
Recommended Attractions at Popular Destinations
Popular Restaurants in Osaka