A trip to experience history, cuisine, entertainment, and art.
Osaka is a vibrant city where you can enjoy a delicious food culture, historical buildings, and unique entertainment.
If you’re wondering what to do on your first trip to Osaka, here’s a suggested 1-night 2-day itinerary to hit the highlights of the city.
Day 1: Immerse yourself in the essence of Osaka with visits to Osaka Castle and Dotonbori. Discover the iconic landmarks of Osaka, Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.
To check into our hotel in the Namba district, we will travel by train from Shin-Osaka Station. The journey will take approximately 20 minutes.
Morning
・Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is a must-see landmark in Osaka.
You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from its magnificent keep.
During the cherry blossom season, the moat surrounding the castle is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms, creating a stunning landscape.
As an essential part of Japanese history, many of the castle’s old structures, such as the stone walls and the Otemon gate, are designated Important Cultural Properties. It is also known as a famous cherry blossom spot.
ACCESS
20 minutes from Namba Station to Osaka Castle Park Station, 1 transfer
Afternoon
・Dotonbori
Dotonbori, the heart of Osaka’s food scene, has vibrant restaurants.
Not only is it a foodie’s paradise, but it’s also home to iconic Osaka landmarks and attractions, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Osaka.
Be sure to snap a photo in front of the famous Glico sign and indulge in local delicacies like takoyaki and kushikatsu.
Access
Train: The closest station to Osaka Castle is Morinomiya Station on the Nagahori Tsurumi Ryokuchi Line, followed by Shinsaibashi Station. 10 minutes on foot.
Taxi: Osaka Castle is about 3km from Dotonbori, so it’s not too expensive to take a taxi. It takes about 20 minutes.
・Shinsekai/Tsutenkaku
It is said that the name “Shinsekai” originated from the ambition to create a new tourist spot that combined the atmosphere of Paris and New York when an amusement park centered around Tsutenkaku Tower was opened in 1912.
Even today, “Shinsekai” attracts many tourists with its nostalgic atmosphere, including the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, the nostalgic “Janjan Yokocho” alleyway, and the “Tsutenkaku Hon-dori Shopping Street” where you can get a great view of the tower. Shinsekai is packed with spots where you can enjoy a deep dive into Osaka.
Not only can you savor Osaka’s cuisine at historic restaurants, but you can also experience Osaka’s culture at cafes, souvenir shops, and game centers.
Shinsekai, where the old culture and cityscape of Osaka remain and where the iconic symbol of Osaka stands tall, is an essential destination for any visitor to Osaka.
Access
Train: 5 minutes from Namba Station on the Midosuji Line in Dotonbori to Dobutsuen-mae Station, then 7 minutes on foot from the station.
Taxi: 10 minutes from Dotonbori to Shinsekai
Day 1 Recommended Gourmet
Osaka is famous for its delicious food, especially takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and tonkatsu buns. These local specialties are a must-try for any visitor to Osaka.
Osaka Castle Area
・JO-TERRACE OSAKA
The terrace, featuring six buildings from A to F, offers a diverse range of attractions. From BBQ areas with stunning views of the castle to a kimono dressing experience paired with traditional Japanese cuisine and sweets, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a morning coffee, a leisurely brunch, or a satisfying dinner, you’ll find it here. Additionally, the terrace provides convenient services such as a runner support facility and an information center for international visitors.
It’s the perfect place for locals and visitors alike to relax, socialize, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Dotonbori Area
・Takohachi Dotonbori Main Branch
Dotonbori, famous for its giant Glico sign, is a hotbed of takoyaki competition. Among the many takoyaki shops, “Takoyachi” has been beloved by locals since its opening in 1979.
Their secret soy sauce batter creates a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. They use high-quality “madako” octopus, offering a satisfyingly chewy texture. Enjoy them simply with sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
・551 Horai
551 Horai’s pork buns are a famous Osaka food that is now known throughout Japan.
Many people have tried them as souvenirs, but for the freshest experience, nothing beats eating them at the main store.
Located near Nanba Station on Ebisubashi-suji Shopping Street, the main store is always crowded with people lining up for these delicious buns.
Especially during the afternoon and evening, the lines can be quite long.
If you’re planning to eat them on the go, it’s best to visit early in the morning.
The main store produces between 3,000 to 5,000 pork buns per day.
・Andrew’s Egg Tart
Created by Andrew Stow and originating from Macau, the egg tarts at Lord Stow’s Bakery have been a popular treat in Japan for nearly 20 years.
Located just near the iconic Glico sign in Dotonbori, this shop is always crowded with both local and international tourists.
Since they sell out quickly, it’s best to visit early to ensure you get your favorite tart. With a crispy pastry crust and a hot, gooey custard filling made solely from eggs and cream, these tarts are incredibly rich and satisfying.
Once you’ve tried one, you’ll be hooked.
Shinsekai Area
・Daruma Shinsekai Main Store
Established in 1929, just a short walk from Tsutenkaku Tower, Daruma is famous for its kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Using a special blend of oil, their kushikatsu has a light and crispy texture that is easy on the stomach.
The breadcrumbs are finely ground, creating a thin, crispy coating.
With over 40 varieties to choose from, including beef, pork, shrimp, tomato, onion, and shiitake mushroom, there’s something for everyone.
・Yokozuna Shinsekai Main Store
Enjoy a variety of Osaka’s famous dishes at this restaurant.
Their specialty is tonpeiyaki, a type of okonomiyaki made with a fluffy batter and topped with mayonnaise and pickled ginger.
Other recommended dishes include freshly fried kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and doteyaki (simmered beef or pork).
Located just a minute’s walk from Tsutenkaku Tower, this restaurant is a must-visit for any food lover.
Day1 Recommended accommodation
・Hotel Royal Classic Osaka
Hotel Royal Classic Osaka is a hotel that has inherited the design of the Shin Kabukiza, which has been beloved by people in Namba for many years.
By inheriting not only the design but also its presence and spirit, the hotel connects the past, present, and future, and welcomes guests with the same comfort and hospitality every time they visit.
ACCESS
Directly connected to Exit 12 of Osaka Metro Namba Station.
15 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Osaka Metro Namba Station.
・Centara Grand Hotel Osaka
Enjoy a memorable stay at Centara Grand Hotel Osaka, where you’ll find 8 diverse restaurants and bars, a Thai spa offering authentic treatments, and a fusion of Thai and Japanese beauty and culture.
Perfectly located next to Namba Parks, a popular commercial complex, and within walking distance of Dotonbori and Namba Grand Kagetsu, it’s the ideal base for exploring Osaka.
ACCESS
8 minutes walk from Osaka Metro Namba Station.
15 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Osaka Metro Namba Station.
・Citadines Namba Osaka
Experience the charm of a historic building dating back to the early Showa period. Our hotel, a designated Important Cultural Property, welcomes you with a striking façade, unique entrance, and a lofty lobby.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, we offer a variety of room sizes to suit your needs.
Choose from studio rooms to spacious two-bedroom suites.
For added comfort, we provide a gym, kids’ room, residence lounge, laundry facilities, and meeting rooms.
ACCESS
8 minutes walk from Osaka Metro Namba Station.
15 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Osaka Metro Namba Station.
・Natural Hot Spring Yugiri no Yu Dormy Inn Premium Namba
Enjoy a relaxing soak in our separate gendered natural hot spring baths, located in the heart of Osaka’s Minami district.
Our lobby, designed to resemble a theater curtain, offers a bright and calming atmosphere.
All guest rooms are equipped with Serta beds and air purifiers.
Additionally, free Wi-Fi and wired LAN access is available throughout the hotel. While many city hotels feature in-room baths, our hotel’s natural hot spring baths provide the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
ACCESS
5 minutes at walk from Nagahoribashi Station.
20 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Nagahoribashi Station, 1 transfer required.
Osaka has many tourist attractions.
Here are two suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your trip.
Plan1
Day2 Immerse yourself in the magic of a renowned Japanese theme park.
・Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan is an incredibly popular theme park that captivates not only Japanese visitors but also people from all over the world.
With its unique and diverse attractions, the park offers visitors of all ages an immersive cinematic experience.
Divided into ten distinct areas, each offering unique charms and highlights, the park provides endless opportunities for adventure and excitement.
- Super Nintendo World: Experience the world of Mario.
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter.
- Minion Park: Have fun and play with the Minions.
- Universal Wonderland: Discover the charm of various characters.
- Hollywood: Enjoy the atmosphere of a classic American town.
- New York: Step into the world of famous movies.
- San Francisco: Experience the vibrant and open atmosphere.
- Jurassic Park: Embark on a thrilling adventure.
- Amity Village: Dive into the world of Jaws.
- WaterWorld: Enjoy high-energy shows in a futuristic city.
- Donkey Kong Country: Coming late 2024.
5 must-try attractions at Universal Studios Japan
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Hollywood Dream – The Ride
- he Flying Dinosaur
- Jaws
- Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
3 Must-Try Foods at Universal Studios Japan
- Three Broomsticks Butterbeer: Harry Potter Area
- Delicious Me! The Cookie Kitchen Minion Cookie Sandwich: Minion Area
- Jaws Food Cart Jaws Dog: In front of Jaws
Plan２
Morning
・HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel
HEP FIVE’s iconic red Ferris wheel offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Osaka from a height of approximately 106 meters.
On clear days, you can even see as far as the Akashi Strait.
Each of the 52 four-person gondolas is equipped with music and climate control, and a ride lasts about 15 minutes.
At night, the Ferris wheel is illuminated by computer-controlled spotlights.
ACCESS
8 minutes from Osaka Metro Namba Station to Umeda Station
5 minutes walk from the station
・Umeda Sky Building aerial observation deck
Soaring 40 stories high, the Umeda Sky Building provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of Osaka from its 173-meter-high observation deck. Renowned as one of the world’s 20 most iconic buildings by The Times, this architectural marvel features a popular see-through escalator from the 35th to the 39th floor, offering a unique photo opportunity.
The 40th-floor indoor observation deck boasts a 35-meter glass counter, creating a sensation of floating in the sky while enjoying a cafe.
Moreover, the open-air rooftop observation deck offers unparalleled panoramic views that are sure to impress at any time of day or year.
ACCESS
8 minutes from Osaka Metro Namba Station to Umeda Station
10 minutes walk from the station.
It is about 1 km from the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, so it takes about 15 minutes on foot. We recommend taking a taxi.
Afternoon
・Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Kaiyukan is an aquarium that faithfully recreates the natural environment of the Pacific Ocean, the world’s largest ocean, and its surrounding seas. The aquarium features various tanks representing different regions of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Each tank is positioned to correspond to its actual geographic location in the Pacific Ocean.
Housing approximately 620 species and 30,000 creatures, Kaiyukan offers a variety of exhibits, including the central Pacific Ocean tank where whale sharks swim gracefully, the Japan Forest tank with its cascading waterfall and lush greenery, and the Tasman Sea tank home to bottlenose dolphins.
ACCESS
5 minutes walk from Osaka Metro Osakako Station.
20 minutes from Osaka Metro Umeda Station to Osakako Station, 1 transfer
Day 2 Recommended Gourmet
Umeda area
・Takoyaki Yamachan Umeda HEP FIVE Branch
Carefully selected ingredients, meticulous preparation, and skilled craftsmanship.
Experience Osaka’s famous takoyaki at its finest.
Our takoyaki boasts a unique flavor, made with a rich broth simmered for 4 hours using 10 kinds of chicken bones, fruits, and vegetables, blended with a flavorful dashi made from kelp and bonito.
・Ramen Ige
Our rich tonkotsu broth is carefully simmered for 24 hours without any artificial additives.
The noodles are freshly made daily, with the flour blend and hydration adjusted to perfectly complement our homemade broth.
We offer three types of noodles to suit our various menu items.
ACCESS
3-minute walk from Umeda Sky Building.
Kaiyukan area
・Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokotyo
Located on the 2nd floor of Tempozan Market Place, this food theme park recreates the vibrant atmosphere of Osaka in the 1960s.
Immerse yourself in a retro world inspired by Osaka’s downtown districts, featuring a nostalgic streetscape reminiscent of the city’s energetic past. Discover a wide array of iconic Kansai cuisine from renowned local eateries, making it the first-of-its-kind food theme park dedicated to the best of Kansai’s culinary delights.
ACCESS
1-minute walk from Kaiyukan Aquarium.
Transportation Options and Travel Times to Major Cities
From Shin-Osaka to Nagoya
Shinkansen: 50 minutes
From Shin-Osaka to Tokyo
Shinkansen: 2.5-3 hours