24 Must-Do Things in Osaka: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the City!

If you are a movie fan or just want to spend an exciting day, Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is the perfect destination for you! With thrilling rides based on famous movie series such as Harry Potter, Jurassic Park and Minions, you can immerse yourself in a world of fantasy and adventure. To have a unique experience, be sure to try the exclusive Japanese snacks and souvenirs that are only available at the park. Fun fact: During special events, you can even see the famous mascots Woody Woodpecker and Snoopy. Plus, the park is very close to the bustling city center and other popular tourist attractions.

Get ready for an unforgettable aquatic adventure at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan! With a stunning display of over 30,000 marine creatures and over 620 species, this aquarium is one of the largest in the world. Take a peek at the elusive whale shark or marvel at the cute sea otters. One of my favorite exhibits is the "Pacific Journey" section, where you can see marine life from different regions of the Pacific. After exploring the aquarium, you can climb the nearby Tempozan Ferris Wheel for a breathtaking view of the city skyline.

Osaka Castle Park is simply breathtaking! With its majestic castle and sprawling gardens, this park is a must-see for any traveler to Osaka. Walking through the park, you will be surrounded by nature and history. The park is full of activities, from picnics to jogging paths, and there is always something to see.

Dotonbori is a lively neighborhood in Osaka that every tourist should visit. The bright neon lights, unique architecture and delicious food options make it a truly magical experience. Walking along the canal, you can try some of the best street food in Japan, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

The Umeda Sky Building is an absolute must-see for anyone traveling to Osaka. This iconic structure offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. One of the main attractions of the Umeda Sky Building is the rooftop observatory known as the Floating Garden Observatory. This observatory offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding cityscape and is definitely worth a visit. In addition, there are many top-notch restaurants, cafes, and stores in the building that offer a unique and memorable experience. If you have a little more time, you can also visit the nearby Osaka Station City, a huge shopping complex with over 300 stores, restaurants and cafes.

The Abeno Harukas is a must-see in Osaka, Japan. As the tallest building in Japan, it stands 984 feet tall and offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire city. After enjoying the breathtaking view, go shopping at the mall inside the building, where there are high-end brands and souvenir stores. Don't forget to try the delicious Japanese cuisine at the restaurants on the upper floors.

Are you looking for a unique and spiritually uplifting experience in Osaka? Look no further than Sumiyoshi Taisha! As one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, Sumiyoshi Taisha is steeped in history and cultural significance. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the shrine's main hall and pray at one of the four side shrines.

Tsutenkaku, also known as the "Tower of Heaven's Gate", is one of the main attractions in Osaka. This iconic tower has been a symbol of the city for over a century and offers spectacular views of Osaka from its top observation deck. In addition, Tsutenkaku is surrounded by the lively Shinsekai district and perfectly captures the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Osaka.

Shitenno-ji is a must-see for any visitor to Osaka! This ancient Buddhist temple has a rich history and a tranquil atmosphere that will instantly transport you back in time. As one of the oldest surviving temples in Japan, Shitenno-ji is a true masterpiece of early Japanese architecture. Enter the interior of the temple and admire the exquisite detail and craftsmanship of the wooden structures and intricate carvings. Be sure to also explore the surrounding park with its beautifully landscaped gardens.

Calling all animal lovers! The Tennoji Zoo in Osaka is an absolute must-see. This sprawling zoo in the heart of the city is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including giant pandas and white tigers. Immerse yourself in nature and explore the many exhibits designed to teach visitors about the importance of animal welfare.

Nagai Park is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained parks in Osaka and a must for nature lovers. The park offers incredible scenery, including a tranquil lake, trees and flowers of all kinds, and a large playground, making it perfect for families. It is also one of the best places to experience Japan's famous cherry blossom season. The park also has a stadium where you can watch exciting sports games and events. After exploring the park, take a short walk to the nearby Nagai Botanic Garden, which is also worth a visit.

If you're a fan of Harry Potter, then a visit to Hogwarts Castle in Osaka is an absolute must. This theme park attraction, located at Universal Studios Japan, is a meticulous recreation of the legendary School of Witchcraft and Wizardry from the popular book and movie series. In addition to exploring the castle's impressive structure and grounds, you can also take part in thrilling attractions like the Flight of the Hippogriff roller coaster and the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. At nearby Hogsmeade Village, be sure to enjoy a butterbeer and some magical treats. The perfect outing for Potter fans young and old!

Are you looking for exciting fun and thrills in Osaka? Then Hirakata Park is definitely a must for you! This amusement park is known for its fast-paced roller coaster rides, water slides, and a variety of other attractions suitable for all ages. Be sure to try out the "Elf" roller coaster, which is very popular with visitors.

The Osaka Tenmangu is a must-see for anyone exploring Osaka. Dedicated to the Japanese scholar and politician Sugawara no Michizane, this stunning shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. Visitors can stroll through the peaceful grounds, admire the colorful temples, and participate in the many festivals and events held here throughout the year.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Oizumi Ryokuchi Park is the perfect place to do it. The peace and serenity of this park is unmatched, and you will have the opportunity to breathe fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Take a walk or rent a bike and cycle around the park. Here you will find a beautiful Japanese garden, a small zoo and a playground for children. If you are lucky, you will also see the famous peacocks.

Are you looking for an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle of the city? Kema Sakuranomiya Park in the heart of Osaka is the perfect destination for you. In this beautiful park, cherry blossom trees bloom from late March to early April, creating a picturesque backdrop for a picnic or leisurely stroll. Located on a river, the park offers a tranquil atmosphere and fantastic photo opportunities. Be sure to visit nearby Osaka Castle, an impressive historical landmark that offers stunning views of the city. Don't miss this idyllic getaway in Osaka!

Looking for a spectacular view of the Osaka cityscape? You'll find it at Shin Umeda City! This skyscraper complex has an observation deck on the 39th floor from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and beyond. You'll feel like you're on top of the world while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Afterwards, shop and dine in the basement.

Located just outside Osaka, Minoh Park is a must-see for nature lovers. With its winding paths and stunning scenery, it's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Along the way, be sure to stop at the enchanting waterfalls, enjoy the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna.

Shinsekai in Osaka is a fascinating neighborhood that you should not miss. It's a funky mix of restaurants, stores and retro-style entertainment venues, with a lively atmosphere that will leave you spellbound. Tsutenkaku Tower, arguably Osaka's most famous landmark, graces this area. Its curious design and the panoramic view of the surrounding neighborhoods from the observation deck will delight you. Be sure to try the delicious kushikatsu skewers at one of the local restaurants. Don't miss exploring Tennoji Park, a green oasis near Shinsekai that is perfect for a quiet retreat.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Osaka, Hozenji Temple is a must-see. Tucked away in a small alley in the heart of the bustling Dotonbori entertainment district, Hozenji offers a tranquil and captivating atmosphere. The temple houses a moss-covered statue of Fudo Myoo, a powerful Buddhist deity revered for its ability to drive away evil spirits and grant wishes. Don't forget to wash your hands and mouth at the stone water basin, and try your hand at the traditional Japanese art of incense burning at the entrance to the temple. When you're done, stroll through the surrounding alleyways and discover some of Osaka's best-kept secrets - from traditional Japanese restaurants to trendy boutiques and bars.

If you're looking for a unique experience off the beaten path, be sure to visit Isshin-ji in Osaka. This temple is unlike any other in Japan, with bright colors and whimsical sculptures that will transport you to a whimsical world. The highlight of Isshin-ji is the 1000-handed Kannon statue, which is truly breathtaking.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of science at the Osaka Science Museum! This interactive museum houses an array of exhibits, 3D models, and virtual reality experiences that explore the wonders of technology, physics, and space. Take a journey through the history of science and discover the fascinating discoveries of Japanese scientists.

If you are looking for an exciting and educational experience in Osaka, Kids Plaza Osaka is the perfect destination. This innovative children's museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that will delight children and adults alike. From science experiments and crafts to live performances and story hours, there's never a dull moment at Kids Plaza.

The Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park Windmill is an absolute must-see for tourists in Osaka! This picturesque windmill is located in a spacious park and offers visitors a fantastic view of the scenic surroundings. With its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful flower gardens, the park is perfect for a quiet stroll, a picnic with friends, or a family outing. If you're lucky, you can even see the seasonal flower displays here, which are absolutely stunning! And nearby attractions like the "Japan Folk Crafts Museum" and the "Asahi Beer Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art" are also worth a visit.