Visit Osaka: What are the best things to do and see in Japan's third largest city?
The city prides itself on being different, showing a more authentic face of Japan compared to the Tokyo megapolis. It can be difficult to take in hand, even for the most experienced travellers. Even the Osaka transport network is different from those of other Japanese cities. But the city has a lot to offer you, and you need to well prepare your stay here before leaving. Make a list of Things to do in Osaka and study the city plan, and everything will be fine. Especially since I have already been a part of the job for you:
1. The Castle of Osaka
Flickr – Rob Fahey
Osaka Castle is a real masterpiece of Japanese architecture . It was built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. In 1945, an American air raid destroyed the dungeon. The castle has since been renovated and now houses one of the largest museums (it’s an expo alone) in the region and is surrounded by one of the most beautiful parks in the city.
2. Dōtonbori and the Namba district
Flickr – Wally Gobetz
Dōtonbori Street is a little Times Square of Osaka. It is located in the Namba district where there are an incredible number of shopping centers, restaurants and places to go out and have fun. Nightlife there is indeed lively and the signs illuminate this unique street in Osaka. Its popularity has only grown following the many local films and programs that have been shot here.
3. Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine
Flickr – David Green
Sumiyoshi-taisha, also known as Sumiyoshi Shrine , was built at the beginning of the 3rd century, before the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. This means that it was built without any other religious influence than Shintoism. The architecture is therefore absolutely unique, making it not only one of the oldest sanctuaries in all Japan, but also one of the most interesting to visit. It is one of the most visited shrines in Japan during the Hatsumōde (first visit to a sanctuary after the Japanese New Year).
4. Umeda Sky Building
Flickr – jpellgen
Umeda Sky Building offers more beautiful panoramic view on the city of Osaka. Designed by Japanese architect Hiroshi Hara, the building has 2 towers of 40 floors connected by a bridge and is admirably well designed. It is possible to access the observation platform of this 173-metre high skyscraper to admire the city from day to night. In the evening it is even more beautiful when Osaka is illuminated. Umeda Sky Building is located in the Umeda district and the entrance is 1000 yen (7€). We only go there for the view, but it's worth it.
5. Shi Tennō-ji Temple
Flickr – jpellgen
The Shi Tennō-ji Temple (Buddhist) was built by the government in 593, making it one of the oldest temples in Japan as well as the first temple built by the State . For history, it was Prince Shōtoku who invited three Korean carpenters of the Baekje kingdom for his construction. The temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times, but it has always been rebuilt to resemble the original architecture of the 6th century. Visiting this temple is worth even more for the discovery of garden of Gokuraku-jôdô . The latter is superb and particularly popular during the spring (from April) for its cherry blossoms.
6. Aquarium Kaiyukan
7. The museum Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen
This museum is quite amazing and especially different from other ordinary museums... Although it traces the history of an invention known internationally, it remains very original: you know the noodles ? These noodles are almost worthless and are ready in seconds with hot water. The Rāmen Museum (the brand that sells most of it in Japan) lets you know more and even proposes to make your own noodles.
8. Visit Universal Studios Japan
To have fun in Osaka, go to amusement park Universal Studios Japan . Browse the different "villas" of the park: Hollywood, New York, San Francisco, Jurassic Park, Lagoon, Waterworld, Amity Village and Universal Wonderland, and from 2014 a new one on the theme of Harry Potter. Ideal if you travel with family or want to change classic visits (temples, sanctuaries, museums)...
9. Osaka National Art Museum
Flickr – Sumiko Hashimoto
The National Art Museum, located in the centre of Osaka on the island of Nakanoshima, contains two underground floors with spectacular contemporary art exhibitions. The works exhibited are local and international. The museum itself is one, representing the ondulation of rosels in the wind .
10. Local food
Flickr – Alpha
Think on your trip to Osaka to taste local dishes. On the programme: Okonomiyaki (in some sort a local omelette), Takoyaki (Doughballs), Kitsune Udon (soupe). Do not hesitate to test street-food, very present in Osaka.
11. Other ideas for visits to Osaka
- Shinsekai district
How to go to Osaka?
Many airlines fly to Osaka from France like ANA, Japan Airlines, Air France, British Airways (via London), Alitalia (via Rome) and Aeroflot (via Moscow or St. Petersburg), as well as others. To find the best price, the best is to use the flight comparison Ulysses .
Find a hotel in Osaka
Osaka is like Tokyo a rather tempacular city and it is important to find one among the neighborhoods where to stay in Osaka . To find a cheap hotel in Osaka, search this Compare hotels .
Have you visited Osaka? What would you add as an essential activity to do?
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