Best Things To Do in Osaka

Osaka's cosmopolitan atmosphere makes it the ideal destination for an out-of-the-ordinary vacation. You will live a sensory experience in all its splendor and you will be enveloped by the murmur of its frenetic streets. From boating on the Dotonbori Canal to relaxing in hot springs and traditional beauty treatments, the locals are friendly and the plans are unforgettable.

You can experience its vibrant neighborhoods, including Osaka's famous Red Light, as well as the contrast between old houses and modern buildings. In addition, you will have the opportunity to experience the capital of Japanese gastronomy. Although there are innovative proposals such as LEGOLAND, it also offers impressive tea houses and temples. Ready? Here are some not-to-be-missed recommendations.

Osaka Castle is one of the most fascinating attractions and a testimony to the unification of Japan in the 16th century. Among its corridors are hidden some stories of the Toyotomi and Tokugawa clans that you can not miss.

It is worth sneaking into its majestic walls, moats and gardens, as well as discovering more than 10,000 historical pieces that are kept in its museum. If I were you, I would not miss the Tenshukaku tower, which has exhibitions and an amazing viewpoint overlooking the city.

The roof of this castle can be seen from different points of Osaka, but many people choose to see the complex on a boat on the canals. Although you can also book a private tour of Osaka to learn about its history in detail, as well as take advantage of other local experiences and attractions.

Details of interest

• Price: entrance to the castle is around 4 €.
• Hours: open daily from 9:00 to 17:00.
• How to get there: the easiest way is to take the subway Chuo Line to Tanimachi 4-Chome station, but you will have to walk for about 10 minutes. Guided city experiences usually include transfers so you don't have to worry about logistics.

Osaka's neighborhoods represent cultural and gastronomic diversity, as well as the contrasts between ancient civilizations and modern atmosphere. You will be able to live a multi-sensory experience with all the colors, flavors, smells and shapes of this important cosmopolitan city.

Many tourists choose to book a guided tour of Osaka, which makes it easy to get to know its streets and important neighborhoods, as well as Japanese culture, and taste delicious dishes.

Dotonbori, the gastronomic district

It is impossible to go to Osaka and not pass through Dotonbori. Its giant screens flash at all hours and it is like being in Asian Times Square. The street is divided by the canals of the city. In addition, there are 3D signs like the famous crab, where many tourists stop to take a picture.

The gastronomic offer of this area is impressive, especially when night falls and the air is recharged with other plans. You cannot miss the takoyaki (octopus balls) and the Konamon Museum, where they teach you how to prepare this Japanese delicacy. In addition, you can take a boat ride on the canal or cross the bridge that divides this street.

Nipponbashi, the electronic district

In Nipponbashi the only sure thing is the frenzy, as it is an ideal shopping district to buy souvenirs out of the ordinary. Electronics, manga, collectible toys, anime and the whole world of doujinshi are in abundance. You will be fascinated by the multi-story shops, as well as those with low lighting that have a sixties aura.

Shinsekai, the retro neighborhood

To enjoy the authentic Japanese atmosphere, I invite you to stroll through Shinsekai. Nostalgia prevails here and its bustling alleys are a cross between old and modern Japan. In addition, there are many shades of Western culture and emblematic buildings such as the Tsutenkaku tower.

Do not be surprised if for a moment you feel like in Paris or Coney Island, as these cities were the inspiration for the remodeling of some streets in this neighborhood.

Tennoji, the neighborhood of contrasts

Tennoji is a neighborhood that has been modernized, without losing its essence and traditions. You can meander through its modern streets and bustling alleys and even see the Tennoji Zoo created in 1915. At night it is a beautiful neighborhood, with scenic buildings such as Abeno Harukas.

In this area I would take advantage of a visit to Shitennoji Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple noted for its spectacular stone torii, its prayer and meditation halls, Zen gardens and a 5-story pagoda representing the connection between heaven and earth.

Umeda, the financial district

You cannot miss Umeda and its modern streets, where you will experience the changes that Osaka has undergone in recent years. In this neighborhood you will find the Pokemon Center and the Umeda Sky Building, where you will conquer the city at 173 meters high and enjoy 360-degree views from an open-air walkway.

Locals recommend trying Okonomiyaki, a dough filled with vegetables, meat or fish. Take advantage of the restaurants and street stalls that are experts in this typical dish. In addition, the subway passages of the subway hide small markets and a gastronomic scene that will blow your mind.

Osaka's food scene is a real treat for the palate. In fact, it is nicknamed the "Heart of Japan's Cuisine". While you can try the classic sushi, there are other dishes you surely don't want to miss such as:

• Okonomiyaki, it is considered the Japanese pizza because of its variety of combinations and the texture of the dough. However, when you try it you will know it is a Japanese dish because of its flavor and the careful presentation of the dish. It is usually eaten with cutlery and served with special sauce, Japanese mayonnaise or dried seaweed.
• Kushikatsu: delicious meat skewers with breaded vegetables. They are ideal for dipping in a typical Osaka sauce.
• Ramen: although it is a dish eaten in several countries, Osaka has its own version. Delight yourself with its umami flavor and the different types of noodles.

Consider that the tradition is that you must eat until you burst and the only rule is to never say no to a good plate of Japanese food. In addition, street food is very cheap and there are options for all tastes, being able to get dishes from 1 € to 4 €, crazy!

If you would like to enjoy the gastronomic proposals at night, perhaps you could book a gastronomic tour of Osaka. You will enjoy a sensory experience, where the guest of honor will be your palate. You will get to know the best bars and delight yourself with sake drinks, the famous fermented rice wine.

Nightlife in Osaka is full of contrasting sounds and flavors. You will surely be speechless as you watch the canals light up with the glow of giant screens. You can't even imagine it, but among their neon lights are hidden mysteries that you can unveil during an entertaining walk.

You can visit the strangest stores and try your luck in the various vending machines that are in the city, maybe you will get a different souvenir inspired by Japanese culture. When night falls, the Japanese concentrate in the old ghetto, where the old houses and narrow alleys will surprise you.

It is also a city full of enigmas and abandoned areas. A clear example is the Red Light district, for which many prefer to book a night tour of Osaka, which start from 52 €. It is not unsafe, but it has a strange dynamic, buildings that almost collapse and alleys of clandestine practices.

To recharge your batteries you can pursue the irresistible aromas that star in its neighborhoods and take advantage of the gastronomic proposals. In fact, you could visit The Lock Up, a prison-inspired themed restaurant that includes horror shows and mysterious dishes.

While the main goal on vacation is to see as many attractions as possible, it can't all come down to walking. You will certainly want a moment to unwind and return home refreshed. In Osaka you can indulge in therapeutic activities and one of the most popular places is the Naniwanoyu spa, where you will find all kinds of relaxing baths from 6€, among which stand out:

• Hot spring baths.
• Salt saunas.
• Jet baths.

Upon entering you will find an atmosphere that isolates the local bustle and takes you on a journey of relaxation. You can even take advantage of the famous Japanese beauty treatments or treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

If you plan to spend several days in Osaka you could visit LEGOLAND Discovery Center. This theme park is inspired by the LEGO franchise, where the world of construction awaits you. You can go as a family and stop by Miniland to see replicas of Japanese monuments such as Osaka Castle and Tokyo Tower.

In addition, the experience combines fun with learning through workshops, children's areas and attractions such as:

• Interactive games based on LEGO characters.
• Roller coasters of different intensities.
• Construction workshops with professionals.
• 4D cinema with special effects such as water, wind and vibrations.

I suggest you buy tickets for LEGOLAND Discovery Center in advance to avoid queues, both at the ticket office and at the entrance.

Details of interest

• Price: about 19 €.
• Hours: Monday to Thursday from 10:00 to 18:00. Friday to Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00.

Osaka is a city with alternative plans and proposals that go outside the Japanese comfort zone. However, you can still take advantage of ancient traditions such as the mythical tea ceremony. It is cheaper than doing it in Tokyo and Kyoto, so I would certainly take the opportunity to visit the local tea houses.

The taste of Japanese tea is quite strong, both for the palate and for the stomach. So probably, prior to the ceremony, you will be able to participate in a light tasting. Generally, portions of light desserts are offered, such as Fluffy Cheesecake or Daifuku (glutinous rice).

Some experiences can be done at a Japanese master's home, but I always recommend doing it through a reliable tour agency. There are also options that allow you to wear a kimono, something you should do with much respect and gratitude.

Other important traditions that connect with the local culture include:

• Attending the Tenjin Matsuri parades, which belong to a summer festival held in July and include performances on the canals.
• Walking around the city dressed as Japanese cultural characters.
• Enjoy a Kabuki or Bunraku show, the former is a classic of Japanese theater and includes colorful costumes and dramatic scripts. Meanwhile, Bunkaru takes you through different performances with puppets.
• Witness a sumo showdown, a traditional sport that offers an exciting and dramatic atmosphere. Before starting, the ritual purification of the space where the competition takes place is performed.
• Witness Hanami, also known as cherry blossom time.
• Visit an Izakaya, an informal tavern that offers a more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for tasting typical drinks and enjoying the night in Osaka.

Osaka can also be enjoyed from the water through the Dotonbori canal. The banks are crowded with the mythical giant screens and is very popular for taking pictures. The main attraction is to enjoy a boat ride and, like other activities in this wonderful city, is considered a fairly affordable plan, finding options from 10 € per person.

On board you can listen to interesting stories and experience the beauty that spans the boundary between Dotonboribashi Bridge and Nipponbashi Bridge. Each boat accommodates 10 to 30 people, so it's a perfect plan for groups of family or friends. Some offer traditional beers on board that can be mild, bitter or with a dry taste.

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is an iconic place you have to visit at least once in your life. It is considered a time machine, where you can discover 1800 years of history; for a reason it is one of the oldest and most important in all of Japan.

Of course, be prepared to walk and climb stairs, because it is something characteristic of Asian temples and shrines. It is worth it to see closely its stone torii and the famous path of stone lamps tōrō. In this sacred place you can see the Honden halls that are dedicated to different deities, as well as the Kodama in honor of the gods that take care of its centennial trees.

If you are traveling in June, you cannot miss the Otaue-shinji, a festival that honors the god who cares for Osaka's rice crops.

Details of interest

• Price: admission is free.
• Hours: daily from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• How to get there: it is in the Sumiyoshi district and I suggest you use the Nankai line to Sumiyoshi Taisha station.

If you go to Osaka you can escape to neighboring Nishinomiya and try to catch a game of the Hanshin Tigers, the local baseball team. During the event you can expect a vibrant atmosphere and palpable excitement from the fans. It is true that the Japanese are a more reserved people, but in this region they are a bit more boisterous, something you will notice during this experience.

Their games coincide with **Japan'**s baseball season, so there are usually options between March and October. Japanese players are famous for their skill on the field, and this particular team usually packs the stadium.

You'll be able to listen to the national anthem and take advantage of the food stands at the stadium. If I were you I would opt to try a bento box, which contain rice, fish or meat, vegetables and sauces.

Details of interest

• Price: you can find tickets from 8 €, the price varies according to the type of seat and the demand of the match.