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Osaka Travel Guide
Things To See
Top Attractions
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Osaka Castle – One of Japan’s most notable landmarks, the Osaka Castle is a 16th century structure built by iconic samurai, general
and warrior, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It covers about six hectares of land, with several gates and landscaped gardens, and it’s currently open
to the public as a museum.
Universal Studios Osaka – Universal Studios Japan currently has 8 themed
sections with many different rides, attractions, shows, restaurants and cafes.
Enjoy a fun-filled day that you won’t forget!
Osaka Aquarium – Situated by the Bay, Osaka Aquarium (or Kaiyukan) showcases
a diverse selection of marine life. It’s home to 27 tanks featuring a whale shark,
manta rays, seals, sea lions, penguins, iguanas, dolphins, jellyfish, turtles, lobsters
and fish.
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Kuchu Teien Observatory – Also known as the Floating Garden Observatory, the
Kuchu Teien Observatory in Osaka is one of the tallest modern buildings in the
city and offers a 360-degree view of the surroundings. It has an open-air rooftop
that provides an excellent spot for sunset viewing, along with its many shops and
recreational facilities.
Drum bridge from sumiyoshi grand shrine
Shrines and temples
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Sumiyoshi Taisha – One of the oldest shrines in Japan, the Sumiyoshi Taisha
was built in the 3rd century and features a distinct architectural style called the
Sumiyoshi-zukuri. Its known for its straight roofs, its entrances built under the
gable and fenced enclosure.
Shitenno-ji Temple – A Buddhist temple founded in 593, Shitenno-ji is among the
oldest temples in the country. Its spacious complex features gardens, courtyards,
shrines, a five-storey pagoda and the Main Hall.
Shitennoji Temple
Shopping
Osaka’s shopping scene is among the country’s best. You’ll find many upscale and high-end malls and boutiques, as well as shopping arcades,
discount stores and thrift shops.
In the Umeda and Namba areas there is a long, covered shopping street called Shinsaibashi Suji, featuring various brand name stores and shops.
It’s 600 metres long and extends to Dotombori. From there, the shopping street actually continues further, but is called the Ebisubashi Suji.
Where To Explore
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Namba – Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Namba is a top entertainment district in Osaka. It’s dubbed Osaka’s southern city centre
and it also offers numerous shopping and dining options. It’s where you can find Amerikamura, Den Den Town, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi
and the Namba Parks.
Umeda – Known as Osaka’s northern city centre, Umeda is a lively business district with an abundant choice of hotels, restaurants,
department stores and entertainment facilities. It’s where the Grand Front Osaka, Umeda Sky Building, Kitashinchi District, and the
Hankyu Entertainment Park are located.
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