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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in

Osaka

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Meagan Drillinger

Updated Dec 25, 2023
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Osaka, one of Japan's largest cities, lies on the south coast of western
Honshu at the point where the River Yodo flows into the wide sweep of
Osaka Bay, which opens out into the Pacific. Its location on the Yodo Delta
with its network of watercourses and canals spanned by more than a
thousand bridges has, deservedly, earned Osaka the nickname of the
"Venice of the East."

Osaka Castle in autumn

While the origins of Osaka date back to the early days of the Japanese
Empire, today it is undoubtedly one of the most modern cities in Japan,
boasting a futuristic skyline along with countless impressive examples of
modern architecture. Its world-class status is cemented by its many cultural
institutions. These include its many superb museums and art galleries, as
well as its ultra-modern entertainment, theater, and music venues, which
together add up to an endless list of unique things to do.
When planning your Osaka travel itinerary (as well as considering where to
stay), bear in mind that the city in fact has two significant city centers. If
being close to the top dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences is
an important factor, you'll want to spend time in the Minami, or "South"
district. Kita, the "North" district, is the traditional business center of Osaka,
and is certainly worth considering. Here, you'll find no end of shopping,
dining, entertainment, and accommodation available.
Whichever you choose (but be sure to at least visit both), you'll find an
excellent transportation system as you go about your sightseeing and
explore the best places to visit in the city. If possible, consider traveling to
this popular destination in the quieter seasons, such as winter. You'll avoid
the crowds at the most popular attractions, and you'll get the chance to
experience unique sights, such as seeing Osaka Castle shrouded in snow
and lit up at night.
Whatever season you visit, plan your sightseeing with our list of the top
tourist attractions in Osaka.
See also: Where to Stay in Osaka

On This Page:
1. Osaka Castle
2. Shitennō-ji Temple
3. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
4. The Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Harbor Village
5. The Kobe Port Tower
6. Tsūtenkaku Tower
7. The National Museum of Art
8. Osaka Tennōji Zoo & Park
9. Osaka Science Museum
10. The Umeda Sky Building
11. Universal Studios Japan
12. Tenmangu Shrine and the Tenjin Festival
Where to Stay in Osaka for Sightseeing
Tips & Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Osaka
Map of Tourist Attractions in Osaka
Osaka, Japan - Climate Chart

1. Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle
Highlights: Originally a 16th-century castle, known today for its five-
story tower, museum, and city views
Osaka Castle (Ōsaka-jō) was completed in 1586 and took just three years
to build. Ordered built by famed Japanese warrior and politician Toyotomi
Hideyoshi it was, at the time, the largest castle in Japan.
Almost all Hideyoshi's military commanders were required to contribute
stones for its construction, the largest being the Higo-ishi stone, near the
south entrance. Standing nearly six meters high and 14.5 meters long, it
was contributed to by the celebrated General Kato Kiyomasa from the
island of Shodo.
After Hideyoshi's defeat in 1615, the castle was destroyed, only to be
rebuilt by the Tokugawa shoguns for reasons of prestige. Again destroyed
after the fall of the Shogunate, the castle was reconstructed in its present
form in 1931.
Highlights include the five-story, 42-meter-tall main tower containing a
great museum with exhibits related to the history of the castle and the city
(it also offers superb views over Osaka from its upper floors). Also of
interest in Osaka Castle Park is the Hokoku Shrine dedicated to Hideyoshi
and his family.
This popular site can get busy, especially in the summer months, so be sure
to take advantage of the "e-ticket" option available through its official
website (see below).
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0002
Osaka Castle Map (Historical)

2. Shitennō-ji Temple
Shitennō-ji Temple

Highlights: Japan's first Buddhist temple shows off a five-story pagoda,

beautiful statues and paintings, and the famous Golden Pavilion.
Shitennō-ji is Osaka's best-known temple and can trace its roots back to 59
CE. It was also Japan's first Buddhist temple. Although rebuilt numerous
times through the centuries (the most recent reconstruction took place in
the 1960s), this lovely temple remains the oldest such religious site to be
officially administered.
Highlights of a tour include the site's five-story pagoda, along with a
number of other exquisitely decorated buildings. The best of these are the
Golden Pavilion (Kondō) with its fine statues and paintings, the Lecture
Hall (Kōdō), and a lovely covered corridor linking three of the site's gates.
Other buildings of note in the complex include the teaching area, a
pharmacy, and a hospital. Be sure to also spend time exploring the site's
pleasant garden.
Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 543-
0051

3. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Highlights: One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring 27

tanks that spotlight marine habitats from around the planet
Looking a little as if it might be made of giant Lego blocks, the Osaka
Aquarium Kaiyukan is well worth exploring. One of the world's biggest such
attractions, this walk-through aquarium takes guests on a fascinating tour
of a number of marine habitats. These include the Pacific Ocean and
Antarctica, along with the Great Barrier Reef and Monterey Bay.
A variety of Japanese marine life is also featured, including freshwater
species, as well as native reptiles and mammals. All told, the site boasts 27
tanks, the biggest being nine meters deep and capable of easily
accommodating large marine life including manta rays and sharks.
For a truly memorable experience, consider a visit at night, when the tanks
are lit up to dazzling effect. Be sure to also check the feeding times before
your visit (these are listed on the aquarium's official website below).
Address: Chome 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture
552-0022

4. The Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Harbor

Village

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel

Highlight: One of the largest Ferris wheels in Asia, a ride takes a

staggering 17 minutes to complete
The Tempozan Ferris Wheel provides some of the best views over Osaka,
particularly of the port area and the Tempozan Harbor Village where it's
located. This massive Ferris wheel is one of the largest such attractions in
Asia, standing more than 112 meters tall and with a diameter spanning 100
meters.
In operation since 1997, this popular attraction offers a thrilling 17-minute
journey that is especially enjoyable at night when the wheel is lit up in a
variety of different colors dictated by the weather (orange when sunny
weather is forecast, green for clouds, and blue for rain). Thrill seekers can
opt for one of the special "see-through-bottom" cars for an incredible all-
round view of Osaka Bay.
Afterward, be sure to visit other Harbor Village attractions. The best of
these are the Cruise Ship Santa Maria, the Legoland Discovery Center, and
the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
Address: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 552-
0022

5. The Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Port Tower

Highlights: An observation deck overlooks the city skyline, while a

rotating restaurant has 360-degree views
Osaka boasts not just one but two tall towers that have become
synonymous with the city. The newest of these, Kobe Port Tower, is located
on the outskirts of the city near the main harbor. Despite being a little
farther away from the city center, it's certainly a must-visit attraction that
draws crowds of tourists.
Opened in 1963 and constructed from red steel, this earthquake-proof
structure stands 108 meters tall and has retained a look of modernity. The
highlight of a visit is spending time on the observation deck, affording
great views over the city and the Kobe Port area.
Better still, if you're feeling hungry, consider booking a meal at the rotating
restaurant, which enjoys the same spectacular views (it's an especially fun
experience at night).
Address: 5-5 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042

6. Tsūtenkaku Tower

Tsūtenkaku Tower

Highlight: A fifth-floor observation deck has beautiful views of the city.

The oldest of Osaka's two towers, Tsūtenkaku, is located in the city center
and is one of the city's best-known landmarks. It was in fact built on the
site of a replica of the Eiffel Tower that was constructed in 1912 and
destroyed in WWII.
The current structure, completed in 1956, still offers some of the best views
over Osaka. The best of these views can be enjoyed from the observation
level on its fifth floor, where you'll also find a shrine of the God of
Happiness. If visiting at nightfall, the tower is lit up with a dizzying display
of neon lights.
Address: Chome-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002

7. The National Museum of Art

National Museum of Art, Osaka (NMAO) | cowardlion / Shutterstock.com

Highlight: An important art museum that houses works from both

Japanese and international artists.
The National Museum of Art, Osaka (NMAO), is a unique underground art
museum located just a few minutes from the city center on Nakanoshima, a
small island between the Tosabori and Dōjima rivers. Opened in 1977, this
important gallery contains a large collection from some of the leading
international artists of the post-war period, including examples by Picasso
and Cézanne and Japanese artists Kuniyoshi and Foujita.
It's also home to many important relics and statues. Even if art isn't your
thing, it's worth visiting for the spectacular steel structure outside the
museum, a massive installation designed to look like reeds bending under a
breeze.
Also worth a visit is the Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Art. This fine
gallery is home to a collection of ancient Chinese calligraphy and artwork
by Japan's most revered artists.
Address: 4 Chome-2-55 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005

8. Osaka Tennōji Zoo & Park

Osaka Tennōji Zoo & Park

Highlights: A top spot in the city for cherry blossom viewing, as well as
home to Osaka's zoo.
Osaka's largest green space, Tennōji Park (Tennōji Kōen), serves as a place
of respite from this otherwise busy city. Noted for its many fragrant flower
beds and, in spring, its cherry blossoms, the park is a delight to explore
thanks also to its many fun sculptures, ponds, and bridges.
It's also home to some of the city's most important tourist attractions,
including the Osaka Tennōji Zoo. Opened in 1915, the zoo features a
variety of species, including lions, giraffes, and elephants, all housed in
such a way that they seem to be roaming the African savannah.
Also worth a visit is the hippo pool and reptile house. Hot Tip: Try to time
your visit for the free tours of the park's greenhouses and other areas not
usually open to the public.
Address: 1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka

9. Osaka Science Museum

Osaka Science Museum | psgxxx / Shutterstock.com

Highlight: Home to the first planetarium to open in Japan

Looking not unlike the bridge of a large ship - a fact that could be credited
to its waterside setting - the Osaka Science Museum (Ōsaka Shiritsu
Kagakukan) is a delightful outing for those traveling with kids.
Opened in 1989 above the National Museum of Art, the museum contains
numerous hands-on and interactive exhibits based on a number of
science-related themes covering everything from astronomy to energy
sources. It also boasts the country's first planetarium.
Also worth a visit is the Osaka International Peace Center (Ōsaka-
kokusai-heiwa-sentaa), a museum dedicated, as the name suggests, to
matters of peace. Highlights include sobering displays relating to the
destruction of war, as well as a replica of the famous Doomsday Clock.
Address: 4 Chome-2-1 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005

10. The Umeda Sky Building

The Umeda Sky Building

Highlight: A rooftop observatory and garden with impressive views over

Osaka
In addition to the stunning architectural designs associated with its
museums and art galleries, Osaka boasts many other fine examples of
modern architecture. Perhaps the best known is the aptly named Umeda
Sky Building (Umeda Sukai Biru), a stunning landmark consisting of two
office towers joined at the top by a large platform-like structure.
It's this rooftop structure that draws visitors, due largely to the network of
bridges and an escalator, which join the two towers, providing plunging
views of 170-plus meters that send shivers down the spines of those
sensitive to heights. The views from the rooftop observatory and garden -
aptly named the Floating Garden Observatory - are simply stunning.
Afterward, be sure to wander the urban garden at its base with its pleasant
paths, fountains, and ponds. There's also a fun underground market
designed to resemble early-20th-century Osaka.
Address: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023

11. Universal Studios Japan

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Highlights: Themed roller coasters, attractions, and rides including its

own The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
One of the city's newest attractions, and quickly becoming one of the top
things to do in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is also one of the city's
busiest sites, attracting around 10 million visitors each year. One of five
Universal theme parks worldwide, the Osaka location offers a number of
well-known pop-culture franchises, along with a few unique to the
location.
Recent additions include Hollywood Dream: The Ride, a fun roller coaster
that actually travels backward at times; rides based on the Spiderman
movies; and Universal Wonderland, a family-friendly area perfect for those
traveling with younger kids. Uniquely Japanese-themed entertainment and
characters are found in rides based on games and TV shows in the
Universal Cool Japan area, including Monster Hunter and the One Piece
Premier Show.

Also of interest to fans of both the books and movies is The Wizarding
World of Harry Potter, based on the popular rides in Universal's Island of
Adventure in Orlando, Florida. To avoid line-ups, be sure to look into the
handy Universal Express Pass.
Address: 1-33 Sakurajima, Osaka Prefecture 554-0031

12. Tenmangu Shrine and the Tenjin Festival

Tenmangu Shrine

Highlights: A festival with more than 1,000 years of history featuring

parades and a fireworks display
Osaka also happens to be the host city of one of Japan's largest annual
festivals. The Tenjin Festival (Tenjin Matsuri) has been held here for more
than 1,000 years on the same date, July 24 and 25. It features colorful
processions held both on land and on water and culminates with a
spectacular fireworks display.
Much of the fun takes place around the Tenmangu Shrine, which
celebrates the god of scholarship, and provides tourists a chance to
experience local customs, see many traditional costumes, and enjoy the
city's wonderful hospitality. It's also a chance to get in some souvenir
shopping, as well as sampling great food from the many vendors who set
their stalls for the occasion.
Address: 2 Chome-1-8 Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0041
Where to Stay in Osaka for Sightseeing
The best place to stay in Osaka is in the densely packed downtown area,
close to restaurants, shops, and many of the main attractions. The famous
Osaka Castle is on the western edge of downtown, and the Shitennō-ji
temple is to the south. Closer to the water, you'll find the world-famous
Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Harbour Village. Below are some highly-rated
hotels in good locations:
Luxury Hotels:
The Intercontinental Hotel Osaka offers oversized rooms in a prime
location in the center of all the action. The hotel is an easy 10-minute
walk from the central train station.
In the tallest building in Japan is the new Marriott Miyako Hotel .
Occupying floors 38-57, the hotel features rooms with floor-to-ceiling
windows and views out over the city and surrounding plains.
On Midosuji Avenue, one of Osaka's most prestigious streets lined with
exclusive shops, The St. Regis Osaka offers luxuriously appointed
rooms and is just minutes from Osaka Castle.
Mid-Range Hotels:
Ideal for families and near Universal Studios is the Hotel Universal
Port . A ferry departs from behind the hotel and goes to Tempozan
Village, where the Ferris wheel is located.
Set midway between the Osaka Castle and the Tennoji Zoo is the
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Osaka Kitahama . Standard rooms are
comfortably outfitted, and a subway stop is underneath the hotel.
The Mitsui Garden Hotel offers spacious rooms in a quiet
neighborhood, within walking distance of both Osaka Science
Museum and the National Art Museum.
Budget Hotels:
Located in the Namba area, not far from the zoo, is the Business Hotel
Mikado . This budget hotel has basic Japanese-style rooms with
shared bathrooms and showers. Free bicycles are available for guests.
Offering good value and oversized rooms is the well-located Hotel
Kinki. The hotel name refers to the area of the city, and the central
train station is a short walk away.

Tips & Tours: How to Make the Most of Your

Visit to Osaka

Backstreet Osaka Tour: Explore Osaka like a local with this Deep
Backstreet Osaka walking tour. The tour takes visitors through the
city's historic streets and back alleys to off-the-radar spots often
missed by most tourists.
Shoulder Season in Osaka: If traveling outside of the busy peak
summer season, you'll be rewarded with many unique experiences and
sights in Osaka. In winter, the city comes alive with wonderful displays
of colorful illuminations and lights. A good time to visit is from
November to January, during the Festival of Lights and when beautiful
Osaka Castle is lit up for Christmas. Spring is also popular, as the city's
parks and gardens burst into life.
Day Trips: Osaka is perfectly positioned for adventurous travelers to
enjoy a variety of fun day trips. A popular option is the Hiroshima and
Miyajima Full-Day Sightseeing Tour , which takes in two of
Hiroshima's top attractions: Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Peace
Memorial Park. Benefits include the services of an English-speaking
guide, deluxe coaches, and admissions.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Osaka

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Osaka, Japan - Climate Chart

Average minimum and maximum temperatures for Osaka, Japan in °F

J F M A M J J A S O N D

81 88 91 83
67 75 72
49 55 74 76 62 53
48 67 69
50 58 58 48
35 36 40 39
PlanetWare.com
Average monthly precipitation totals for Osaka, Japan in inches.
8.1 6.2 6.8
4.0 5.3 5.5 3.7 4.2
1.8 2.4 2.6 1.4

Average monthly snowfall totals for Osaka, Japan in inches.

0.4 0.8 0.4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Osaka enjoys lovely weather year-round, but the best times to go to Osaka
are in the spring and fall seasons. Spring in Osaka is in March, April, and
May, while fall is in October and November.
The average temperature in Osaka in March is a high of 14 degrees Celsius.
It's a beautiful time to visit because this is the time of year when the plum
blossoms and cherry blossoms start to open up.
The weather warms up in April to about 20 degrees Celsius. Usually, it's the
first two weeks of April that are the busiest in Osaka because it is peak
cherry blossom season. You'll find the streets and attractions are most
crowded, but the weather is at its best.
May's average high in Osaka is 25 degrees Celsius. Usually, the crowds have
thinned and the city is carpeted in greenery.
Osaka's weather in October is still quite warm, with an average high of 23
degrees. Expect sunny days and cooler evenings. Towards the end of
October, the leaves start to change color, which ushers in November and
peak leaf-peeping season.
November is comfortable in Osaka, as well, with an average high of 18
degrees Celsius. The leaves are at their most explosive and colorful in the
middle of the month. You'll also find that November can be particularly
crowded with travelers coming to watch the leaves change.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit near Osaka: As well as the fun day trips already mentioned,
Osaka is a great jumping-off point to explore a variety of other
surrounding attractions and points of interest. Easy-to-access destinations
by rail include Kyoto and
Hiroshima, each just a couple of
hours away by Bullet Train.

Explore Japan's Rich History: A

great vacation destination for
those seeking to immerse
themselves in Japan's rich cultural
traditions is Fukuoka. In addition
to its magnificent castle and many
fine shrines and temples, the city
offers immersive experiences, including origami and calligraphy. Similar
experiences and other historical attractions can of course be enjoyed in
other historic cities such as Nara and Sapporo.
Japan Vacation Ideas: Japan
offers no end of jaw-droppingly
beautiful scenery. No trip should
therefore skip the iconic Mount
Fuji, easily accessible from Tokyo
and its many attractions. If your
itinerary doesn't allow a visit to
the mountain, you can at least catch a good look at it as you whizz past on
a high-speed Bullet Train to destinations such as Nagoya.
Osaka Map - Attractions (Historical)

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