Plan your Osaka travel itinerary with our expert

Anna Kraskovska

Welcome travel fans! I’ve been traveling around the world for 20 years and most of my trips were to Asia. I think I have been crazy about Japan since I was a child and I will be happy to share this passion with you…

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Among all the places in Japan Osaka is especially known for its eye-catching neon signs, extremely delicious food, charming people, loudly spoken Osaka-ben dialect, thousands of cozy bars (called izakayas), lots of attractions and the world’s best place to try Fugu.

Osaka is a large port city, a busy commercial center, a kitchen of Japan and a home for almost 3 million people.

On top of that it is a great stop before traveling to sacred Koyasan or spiritual Kumano Kodo, or a perfect stay to explore Nara & Kobe.

Whatever you like, Osaka will offer even more…

What we propose

Anna Kraskovska

Expert Japan

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we'll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

We'll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.
Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren't typically found in guidebooks.
Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.
We'll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.
You'll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.
The cost of our service is only $190

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Since 2015, our site has been offering expert travel itinerary planning services that result in a comprehensive, user-friendly PDF guidebook personalized to each client’s unique needs and preferences, featuring daily summaries, attraction recommendations, dining suggestions, maps, a curated database of tested accommodations worldwide, as well as detailed guidance on car rental options and ongoing support via phone and Whatsapp.

Our personalized routes from A to Z include many unique and little-known places, along with detailed information such as parking addresses, tips, and exact directions, making the trip more exciting and enjoyable while saving travelers time during preparation and on their journey.

Sections:

Places to visit Trip budget Best Hotels Your itinerary Cooking FAQ Recommendations What we Offer

Stories of Our Customers

Must-visit places

Natural Beauties and Lakes

Price: free

Osaka Castle Park

1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward

open 24 hours

Price: free

Tennoji Park

5-55 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward

open from 7 am to 10 pm

Price: free

Minoo Park

open 24 hours

1-18 Minookoen, Minoh

Price: free

Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

2-163 Ryokuchikoen, Tsurumi Ward

open 24 hours

Tourist Attractions

Price: 600 yen/adult, free for children

Osaka Castle

1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward

from 9 am to 5 pm. Last admission is at 4:30 pm.

Price: free

Dotonbori

1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward

stores close at 9 pm, restaurants typically close at 10 pm

Price: 300 yen/adult, 200 yen/child

Shitennoji Temple

1 Chome-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward

from 8 am to 4 pm

Price: free

Kuromon market

2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward

typically from 8 am to 6 pm

Attractions For Kids

Price: from 5,400 yen

Universal Studios Japan

2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward

from 10 am to 7 pm

Price: 500 yen

Tennoji Zoo

1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward

from 9:30 am to 5 pm. Closed on Monday.

Price: 2,700 yen

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward

Weekdays - from 10 am to 8 pm, Weekend - from 9:30 am to 8 pm

Price: 1,400 yen

Kids Plaza Osaka

2 Chome-1-7 Ogimachi, Kita Ward

from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Museums

Price: 600 yen

Osaka Castle

1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward

from 9 am to 5 pm. Last admission is at 4:30 pm

Price: 600 yen*

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Kita Ward, Tenjinbashi

from 10 am to 5 pm

Price: from 400 yen

Osaka Science Museum

4 Chome-2-1 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward

from 9:30 am to 5 pm

Price: free

Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda

8-25 Masumicho, Ikeda

from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

I want more details

First time in Osaka

Purpose: visiting top sights

2 days

Osaka and around

Purpose: visiting top sights & hidden “gems”

3-5 days

Osaka hidden “gems”

I always try to find the best to share with you and I believe that these “gems” are really valuable. And I also know that time is priceless and you are in hury. So let me propose just a few gems not to be missed…

Price: free

Isshinji Temple

2 Chome-8-69 Osaka, Tennoji Ward

from 5 am to 6 pm

Price: free

Namba Yasaka shrine

2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward

from 6:30 am to 5 pm

Price: choose your package & Make your reservation here

Wasabi Osaka

2 Chome-8-17-1F3 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward

from 1 pm to 7 pm. Closed on Sunday.

Price: from 720 yen

Spa Suminoe

from 10 am to 2 am (last entry at 1 am).

Price: free

Ikedashiroato Park

3-46 Shiroyamacho, Ikeda

from 9 am to 7 pm. Closed on Tuesday.

I want more details

Expert tips in Osaka

Osaka Amazing Pass

Once you are in Osaka consider purchasing 1-Day or 2-Day Osaka Amazing Pass to ride buses and trains unlimitedly, enjoy 35 sightseeing spots for free and get special offers at 25 facilities & 67 shops

3 confusing train stations in Osaka

Check your ticket before you come to the station for departure or learn more about your transfer station in advance.

There are many private companies that may call the train station differently and you might be confused with that. Here are 3 confusing train stations in Osaka: 1) Osaka station (sometimes it appears as Umeda in your train ticket. So, it is equal to Osaka station), 2) Namba station (that one has a few different private train companies and those stations are disconnected) and 3)Shin-Osaka station (it is a station where the bullet train comes. It is not equal to Osaka station)

Confusing Namba station exits

Namba station in Osaka city has 32 different exits, so pay attention to know your exit and follow the proper sign, or find there a big map of exits with the list of main tourist spots, hotels, restaurants, and streets according to their exits

Fare Adjustment machines

If you have bought the wrong ticket or decide to change your destination in mid-journey, you can pay any excess fare at one of these machines. So don’t panic if you go to exit the station and you don’t have enough money on your IC card. Use “Fare Adjustment machines” to reload your card with cash. Just place your ticket or IC card (ICOCA, Pasmo, Suica, etc.) in the slot and the machine calculates your excess fare. Pay the excess with your charge card, notes or coins and the machine issues you with a new ticket to pass the barrier.

Hostels and Capsules vs Hotels

For those who are traveling alone or with friends I highly recommend staying in a hostel or capsule hotel. The majority of Japanese hostels/capsule hotels are very comfortable, clean and are a great value for money. Hotels in Osaka are 2 to 4 times more expensive, especially in the context that you need only a bed, in fact

I want more details

What we propose

Jena Hovor

Expert France

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we'll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

We'll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.
Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren't typically found in guidebooks.
Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.
We'll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.
You'll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.
The cost of our service is only $190

Start WhatsApp Book a chat with an expert

Stories of Our Customers

Great Food Experience

Izakaya Toyo ($ - budget to moderate)

3 Chome-2-26 Higashinodamachi, Miyakojima Ward, Osaka, 534-0024, Japan 〒534-0024 大阪府大阪市都島区東野田町３丁目２−26

The chef Toyoji Chikumoto, grilling seafood in front of you with a flamethrower became a living legend and his Izakaya Toyo is one of the top destinations in Osaka. In 2019 Toyo was shown in the Netflix show (Street Food: Asia). He serves amazing street food and super positive energy!

Rakushin restaurant ($$$-expensive)

1 Chome-6-14 Fukushima, Fukushima Ward, Osaka, 553-0003, Japan 〒553-0003 大阪府大阪市福島区福島１丁目６−14, TEL.: +81664512323

A special place of the Michelin chef Shintaro Katayama where you will get an exquisite food and aesthetic hi-end experience. It is a sacred culinary theater with no menu but a chef's choice meal course to surprise you…

Kuromon Market ($ - budget)

2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan 〒542-0073 大阪府大阪市中央区日本橋２丁目

The Market will offer the freshest seafood in its huge variety for a reasonable price. You can try many samples of grilled clams and crabs, sushi/sashimi sets, fresh fruits, juices, etc. It is a feast of indulgence especially for seafood lovers. Highly recommended!

Kani Doraku Dotonbori Main Branch ($$ - moderate)

1 Chome-6-18 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan 〒542-0071 大阪府大阪市中央区道頓堀１丁目６−18

For those who are crazy about crab in any of its appearance. Great crab dishes. Super delicious and unfortunately super popular. Reservation is a must.

Shopping Malls

Namba Parks

2 Chome-10-70 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan 〒556-0011 大阪府大阪市浪速区難波中２丁目１０−70

Really outstanding shopping complex with gardens, stores, restaurants and beautiful illumination. It is open until midnight so you can enjoy shopping then walk around and meet the sunset on the rooftop garden.

Grand Front Osaka

4-20 Ofukacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0011, Japan 〒530-0011 大阪府大阪市北区大深町４−20

It's a contemporary massive shopping mall with multiple levels offering more than 260 shops, restaurants, whisky museum, high-end brand stores and rooftop garden. It’s an elegant place for trendy people.

Abeno Harukas

1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016, Japan 〒545-6016 大阪府大阪市阿倍野区阿倍野筋１丁目１−43

The Tallest building in Japan features a big department store with 44 restaurants, office, hotel, art museum, and observation deck. It’s a great place to spend time and not only for shopping. You can visit an art museum and top floor observatory deck with a great city view.

HEP FIVE

5-15 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0017, Japan 〒530-0017 大阪府大阪市北区角田町５−15

HEP FIVE is not just a shopping mall, it’s full of spots to enjoy that will be very much appreciated by kids. Start your journey with entertainment (capsule toy vending machines or purikura photo booths, or other games), try amazing food, do shopping and finally enjoy 360-degree panoramic views riding the Ferris Wheel.

Shopping Streets

Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street

2 Chome-2-22 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan 〒542-0085 大阪府大阪市中央区心斎橋筋２丁目２−22

It is a real retail therapy from discount to high end, surrounded by more shopping and tons of places to eat on the side streets.

Nipponbashi DENDEN Town

Japan, 〒556-0005 Osaka, Naniwa Ward, Nipponbashi, 3 Chome, 〒556-0005 大阪府大阪市浪速区日本橋３丁目〜５丁目

People say it is Osaka's answer to Tokyo Akihabara full of electronics, anime, manga and video games. You can play, do shopping, eat great food and enjoy a great time here.

Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street

5 Chome Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0041, Japan 〒530-0041 大阪府大阪市北区天神橋５丁目

It is the longest arcade shopping street in Japan, 2,6 km long. It features about 600 shops that range from good old specialty stores to very Osaka-like lively restaurants. It is located very close to the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living so it could be visited after the museum.

Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street

14-5 Nanbasennichimae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0075, Japan 〒542-0075 大阪府大阪市中央区難波千日前１４−5

It is a market where you can find typical Japanese goods and tons of kitchen items. Wide variety of ceramic bowls, bakeware, cookware, decorative door curtains, shabu shabu pots, trays, chopsticks, replica food displays, cooking equipment and of course, souvenirs. Available for both retail sale and wholesale.

Markets

Osaka-Kizu wholesale market

2 Chome-2-8 Shikitsuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0012, Japan 〒556-0012 大阪府大阪市浪速区敷津東２丁目２−8

The very local market in Osaka is not as big as Kuromon Ichiba market but still nice. Here you will find fresh seafood, shellfish, oysters, fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables stores.

Kuromon Market

2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan 〒542-0073 大阪府大阪市中央区日本橋２丁目

Osaka Municipal Central market

1 Chome-1-86 Noda, Fukushima Ward, Osaka, 553-0005, Japan 〒553-0005 大阪府大阪市福島区野田１丁目１−86

It is a busy market with early-morning tuna auction,

Ikuno Korea Town

4 Chome-5-１５付近 Momodani, Ikuno Ward, Osaka, 544-0034, Japan 〒544-0034 大阪府大阪市生野区桃谷４丁目５−１５付近

The town has only been around for about 15 years and welcomes visitors to come and enjoy the delicious food and authentic Korean feel. You can try & buy Korean food, daily goods, and even Korean-style clothing.

Dangerous & recommended city areas

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Osaka is safe, however there is an area called Nishinary I would recommend to avoid when in Osaka due to many bag snatchers and homeless people. Osaka locals usually avoid this area and call it dangerous.

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Tobita Shinchi, a centuries-old red-light district, is now the largest red-light district in Japan with about 200 kiosks inside. The youth kiosks are full of girls in their 20s.

It is not a tourist attraction…

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Tennoji area is a good choice for staying due to popular attractions such as Abeno Harukas, Shinsekai retro entertainment district, Tennoji Park, Tennoji Zoo, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and Shitenno-ji Buddhist Temple. There are also plenty of places to eat.

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The Namba area is great for staying while in Osaka. Close to this area you can find Kuromon Ichiba Market, Dotonbori Arcade famous for its history and great restaurants, and DenDen Town, where you can shop for electronics.

Best Accommodation

Price:

Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu

4 Chome-1-15 Kyutaromachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 541-0056

Anna Kraskovska

Great stay, comfy rooms, nice views, good location. Feels like a 5 star hotel. Booked a room on sale so feel like I scored a steal

I want more details

Price:

Ninja & Geisha Capsule Hotel

〒533-0023 Osaka, Higashiyodogawa Ward, Higashiawaji
4 Chome−33−6 プレミア淡路ビル 5階

Anna Kraskovska

The interior is from the Edo period, all about geisha and ninja themes. Great ambience, facilities and staff

I want more details

Price:

Hotel Yu-shu (Ryokan)

2 Chome-8-19 Shimanouchi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0082
〒542-0082 大阪府大阪市中央区島之内２丁目８−19

Anna Kraskovska

Great traditional hotel with a futon floor. Very tidy and nice place with friendly people. Good traditional experience.

I want more details

Recommended Trip Budget or how to save money

For a couple (4 to 5-star)

Budget per day	Cost, $
Accommodation “Capsule”	$21 x 2 = 42$ (inc.taxes)*
Accommodation “Ryokan”	$120 (breakfast is on top)**
Accommodation “Hotel”	$173 (incl.breakfast)***
Meals	from $30* per pax = $60x2 times=$120****
Entertainment	from $20x2 = $40******
Car rental Toyota Rent a Car	from $54 (incl. taxes)******

Family of 4 (4 to 5-star)

Budget per day	Cost, $
Accommodation “Ryokan”	$223 (breakfast is on top)*******
Accommodation “Hotel”	$293 (taxes & breakfast on top)********
Meals	from $30* per pax = $120x2 times=$240****
Entertainment	from $20x4 = $80******
Car rental Toyota Rent a Car	from $90 (incl. taxes)*********

* Single capsules in female and men dormitories

** Japanese-style double room, 2 futon beds, high quality & service

*** Superior double 23m² room with 1 large bed

**** A plate of 10 skewers in Dotonbori

***** 1-Day Osaka Amazing Pass (covers many sights)

****** Mini/Compact class, 5 seats

******* Japanese-style quadruple room, 2 beds and 2 futon beds, high quality & service

******** 2x Superior double 23m² room with 1 large bed

********* Toyota, Standart class, 5 seats

5 days Itinerary in Osaka

Day 1

Osaka top sights