Osaka is probably the next famous city in Japan besides Tokyo, and for a good reason. The city is a perfect mix of cosmopolitan factors with infrastructures of heritage roots. Here, you will find plenty of temples, streets from the Meiji era intertwined with shopping streets and touristy spots. The best thing is, close proximity to such places like Kyoto, Kobe and Kanazawa makes the city an ideal pitstop. In this post, we highlight some of the more interesting sights to see and food to eat.

Osaka Castle

Spotting some elements of gold, the architecture is easily one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. When night falls and the castle is lit, it gives off a romantic feel and couples love to picnic at the garden just below it. 

The best way to enter is through the Otemon Gate (大門) at the park’s southwestern corner.

Operating Hours for museum: 9am – 5pm

Admission fees: ￥600

URL: https://www.osakacastle.net/english/index.html

Directions: The closest station is Tanimachi 4-chrome (谷町四丁目) along the Tanimachi Subway Line and Chuo Subway Line. Alternatively, the closest station for JR is Osakajo koen (大阪城公園).

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Another famous landmark in Osaka is the Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and renowned shrine. Built in 1810, it houses the God protecting sailors, fishermen and those travelling on sea. Time your arrival to coincide with the many rituals and ceremonies they hold at the shrine and witness first-hand the richness of Japan culture.

Located at the south of Osaka, the nearest train station is the Sumiyoshi Taisha Station (住吉大社) on the Nankai Main Line 

Operating hours: April to September 6am – 5 pm October to March 6:30 am to 5 pm

Admission fees: free

URL: http://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/

Tempozan Harbor Village

Explore the Tempozan Harbor Village, the equivalent of Odaiba, Tokyo, for a fun filled day. Here, you will find the world’s largest aquarium, Kaiyukan, the Legoland playground, Ferris Wheel, a cruise ship that takes you around the Osaka bay, a ferry service that can take you to Universal Studios Japan, and a marketplace with 80 eateries selling iconic Osaka dishes. 

Operating hours: 10am – 8pm (hours might vary with weekends and season)

Admission fees: ￥2300 (package tickets available)

URL: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/shopping.html

Cup Noodles Museum

Celebrate one of the world’s best invention, cup noodles with a visit to its museum. Learn its history, how to make ramen and see cup ramen from around the world displayed on the wall.

Operating hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm

Admission fees: free

URL: https://www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/en/osaka_ikeda/