Heading to Osaka but only have one day? Then this article will help you to find the perfect 1-day Osaka itinerary based on YOUR interests – with ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to see, do,and eat!
Osaka gets a bit of a hard time because it’s not as pretty as cities like Kyoto, but what it lacks in traditional architecture it makes up for with heaps of character, great food, and shopping! The people here are so much friendlier than in Tokyo, and the food is seriously delicious. There is a reason why Osaka is called Japan’s kitchen!
I used to visit Osaka every few weeks when I was living on Shikoku and so got to visit most of the famous sights. There is so much to see that it’s impossible to do it all in a day, but with the right itinerary, you can cross a few things off your Japan bucket list and still have the ultimate day trip!
Osaka is Japan’s third largest city and Kansai International Airport is a major hub. This means that you don’t need to fly into Tokyo if you want to explore the west of Japan and the Kansai region (which I highly recommend!) If you’re coming from other cities in Japan you can easily reach Osaka by shinkansen (bullet train) to Shin-Osaka Station.
Choose from one of the itineraries below to find the best option for you!
- 1-day Osaka itinerary for first-time tourists
- 1-day Osaka itinerary for families
- 1-day Osaka itinerary for foodies
- 1-day Osaka itinerary for cultural experiences
- 1-day Osaka romantic itinerary for couples
Heading to Tokyo or Kyoto during your Japan visit? Be sure to check out my 5-day Tokyo itinerary and 3-day Kyoto itinerary!
1-Day Osaka First-Time Tourist Itinerary
If you’re looking for more of a classic tourist itinerary taking in some of Osaka’s highlights – this itinerary is for you! We’ll cover the following areas and attractions:
- Osaka Castle
- Umeda district
- Minami district – Shinsaibashi-suji/Amemura
- Dotonbori/Namba
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for First Time Tourists here
9AM Discover Osaka Castle
One of the most popular tourist spots in Osaka, the castle is surrounded by a large park area which also doubles up as a prime cherry blossom viewing spot during the springtime. As with many castles in Japan, the original structure was destroyed by fire and what remains in its place today is a concrete reconstruction that serves as a museum.
The castle is open from 9am until 5pm. The entrance fee costs 600 yen per adult and is free of charge for those under 15’s. If you have the Osaka Amazing Pass it’s also included here.
There are often seasonal events going on around the castle too. For example, as well as the aforementioned cherry trees and blossoms you can see in Osaka Castle Park during the springtime, in winter the castle has some of the best illuminations in the city.
You can find out more information on the castle through the official website. For the latest events, the Visit Osaka site publishes a monthly event guide on what’s happening around the city.
Access: (Osaka Metro) Tanimachi 4-chome Sta., Morinomiya Sta., Osaka Business Park Sta., Temmabashi Sta., (Keihan) Temmabashi Sta.
11AM Explore Umeda – From Modern Architecture to Traditional Shrines
After you have finished exploring Osaka Castle and its grounds, head on over to the city’s Umeda area. This commercial district is mainly a business area, but you’ll also find huge shopping malls, heaps of restaurants, and attractions such as the Umeda Sky Building.
The Umeda Sky Building is home to the Kuchi Teien Observatory which offers some of the best views of the city, reaching all the way out to the Japan Inland Sea and Awaji Island. The observatory features a bridge 170 meters above ground that connects the two towers of the building, offering a 360-degree panoramic view via an exciting escalator journey.
After your visit to the observatory be sure to check out the building’s basement level called ‘Takimikoji’, a replica Showa-era shopping street featuring Japanese retro storefronts which is full of restaurants serving all your favorite Japanese dishes from ramen to tempura!
Now that you have finished admiring some of Umeda’s modern architecture, it’s time to explore the area’s traditional side at Tsuyuno Tenjinsha shrine and the Nazaki-cho neighborhood which is within walking distance from the Umeda Sky Building.
Tsuyuno Tenjinsha Shrine is the guardian shrine of the Umeda area and is said to have been founded 1,300 years ago. The buildings were destroyed during WW2 and reconstructed in the 1950s. The shrine is associated with a famous Japanese love story with a tragic ending about a prostitute and soy sauce shop owner, details of which you can find at the shrine in English.
The shrine is the location where the two characters declare their eternal love for each other, and as such, you can purchase a variety of charms said to bring good luck to couples who visit. The shrine is located at the end of a shopping arcade called Ohatsu-Tenjindori Shotengai, which is full of stores and places to eat.
Next, take a stroll to Nakazaki-cho and explore the independent shops, art galleries and cafes of this traditional neighborhood. You’ll find cute places such as Kaya Café, famous for its tofu tiramisu, Picco Latte serving coffee and baked goods along with beautiful, dried flower arrangements, and Salon de AManTo, a café located inside a 100-year-old house.
Access: from Osaka Castle walk to Ōsakajōkōen Station and take the Osaka Loop Line to Osaka Station. Journey time is around 40 minutes in total.
1PM Lunch
Time for some lunch! Osaka Station and Umeda’s shopping malls literally have hundreds of restaurants to choose from making it a great option for lunch. Here are a few ideas for places to check out:
Osaka Station – there are heaps of dining outlets inside of Osaka Station, if you’re looking for somewhere casual check out Eki Marche Osaka which has 70 shops and restaurants where you find ramen joints, tonkatsu, sushi, as well as Chinese, Thai, and Western cuisine.
Hankyu Department Store – connected to Osaka’s Umeda Station, this huge department store is one of Japan’s largest, spanning 15 floors! It has plenty of restaurants and cafes to discover as well as a food hall located in the basement. These department store basements are known as depachika in Japanese and offer a selection of ready-made food to purchase from bento boxes to desserts.
Grand Front Osaka – this complex located in front of Osaka and Umeda Stations is home to three floors of restaurants where you’ll find a mouth-watering array of Japanese dishes from sashimi to crispy gyoza dumplings and juicy yakitori skewers.
2:30PM Explore the Minami District
Jump on the subway and head south to spend the rest of your day exploring Osaka’s Minami district, which is packed full of shopping and entertainment options and the place to be if you want a night out to remember!
Start exploring the area by checking out some of the following sites:
Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade
Probably one of Osaka’s most famous (and busiest) streets, this covered shopping arcade is 600m long and is located right in the heart of the Dotonbori area, famous for its Glico Man billboard and that restaurant with the giant crab outside. The shopping arcade is home to affordable fashion outlets like Uniqlo, Zara, and H&M, as well as 100-yen stores, cafes, restaurants, and izakaya. Just try to avoid visiting on the weekend when approximately 120,000 people descend upon the street per day!
Don’t Miss: the Castella Ginso store and café who have been making their signature Portuguese-inspired castella cakes since 1952. Upstairs you’ll find a retro-looking Japanese café where you can order original castella desserts such as the castella parfait or the castella French toast!
Amemura
This popular shopping district, also known as Amerikamura, inherited its name in the 1970s when warehouses were renovated to sell American goods such as clothes and records. Over time, the area became known as a place to find the latest fashion trends and today you can find plenty of quirky independent clothing stores, bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
Don’t Miss: The Big Step mall which is home to second-hand clothing stores, a retro pinball arcade, and a capsule toy shop.
Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum
This small museum showcases traditional Ukiyo-e woodblock prints depicting Kabuki performers. For an additional fee of JPY600, you can also participate in the museum’s woodblock printing experiences where you can try your hand at making your own prints. This lovely cultural experience needs to be arranged in advance; you can book it through the museum’s website here.
Kuromon Market
If you’re a foodie, then this popular market specializing in seafood is worth a visit. There are around 150 stalls in total and this lively covered market whose name means ‘black gate’ takes its name from a nearby temple that was destroyed by fire in 1912. Inside the market you’ll find local specialties like okonomiyaki and takoyaki, as well as rarer delicacies like fugu, Japanese blowfish.
Don’t Miss: Maguro Entoki. This popular sushi store prepares fresh sushi daily using high-quality seafood received the same morning. Their most popular dish is the Otoro Nigiri (high-fatty tuna nigiri). Just make sure you go early because they always sell out!
6PM Dinner in Dotonbori
Finish your day in central Osaka by taking advantage of the nightlife and entertainment on offer in the Namba area. You’ll find many bars and restaurants in Dotonbori; you can find a list of restaurants in English on the Dotonbori website.
Or you could try exploring the back street of Hozenji Yokocho, a traditional narrow, stone-paved lane next to Dotonbori Street filled with small dining outlets. Walking down this lantern-lit street at night is like stepping back in time and is a great way to get a glimpse of the atmosphere of Osaka’s past.
There is no website for Hozenji Yokocho so it’s best to just get stuck in and explore, however, if you feel anxious about trying to navigate the area by yourself, why not take a night food tour and let a local be your guide!
Why not finish off your night in classic Japanese style with some karaoke? There are plenty of karaoke bars to be found in the area so take your pick, you’re sure to have the best time!
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for First Time Tourists here
1-day Osaka Itinerary for Families
First, let’s just start by saying that one of the main attractions in Osaka for families is obviously a visit to Universal Studios Japan. However, you will need a whole day for this alone so if you’re only in Osaka for one day either choose to spend the whole day at USJ or explore the city. Ideally, you’d want to do an overnight stay so you can do both.
Here is a 1-day Osaka itinerary for families which is focused on exploring the city’s following attractions:
- Kaiyukan Aquarium
- Naniwa Food Theme Park
- Kids Plaza Osaka
- Umeda Sky Building
This family-friendly itinerary is designed for younger kids rather than teens and is split between the Osaka Bay area and downtown Osaka. I’ve also deliberately not packed in too much so that the kids are not too exhausted to enjoy anything and you have enough time to move around. As a mom to a demanding toddler myself, I have learned from experience not to try and cram in too much!
Many of the attractions included here are actually covered by the Osaka Amazing Pass and it also includes unlimited travel on the subway and buses so definitely worth checking out if you want to save money! Check prices here.
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Families here
10AM Go Under the Sea at Osaka’s Aquarium Kaiyukan
A great place for families, rainy days, and marine lovers, the Osaka Kaiyukan is one of Osaka’s most loved attractions and one of the largest aquariums in the world. It’s currently rated the number 3 thing to do in Osaka on Tripadvisor too. Recently a friend of mine took her family there including parents and two young children there and was really impressed with the whole experience.
The Kaiyukan has recreated different areas of the Pacific Ocean for visitors to enjoy, from the sunlit Japan Forest to icy Antarctica. There are also several interactive exhibitions including the chance to get within arm’s reach of rock-hopper penguins. Tickets can be bought on the day or bypass the queues by booking online in advance here.
Prices:
- Adults JPY2,700
- Age 7-15 JPY1,400
- Age 3-6 JPY700
- Age 2 and under – Free
Access: 5 min. on foot from Osakako Station of Osaka Metro Chuo Line/30 mins from downtown Osaka by subway
12PM Lunch at Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho
After you have finished exploring the aquarium, go next door to the Tempozan Market Place where you’ll find one of the best places to eat!
Located inside the shopping mall and free to enter, Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho is a retro Japanese food court that has 20 different restaurants to choose from in settings inspired by 1960s Osaka. You’ll be sure to find all the famous Kansai dishes here – takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. You can also find Korean dishes, noodles, and Japanese curry.
After lunch head over to downtown Osaka for some city exploring or if you prefer to stay in the Bay area during the afternoon too, you can check out the following attractions which are all covered by the Osaka Amazing Pass:
– LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Osaka – located in the Tempozan Market Place, this attraction includes 12 experiences including a 4D cinema, indoor playground, and VR ride.
– Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel – take in the incredible views from 112.5 meters high on one the world’s biggest Ferris Wheels. If you’re feeling extra brave, ride one of the carriages with see-through floors!
– Cruise Ship Santa Maria Day Cruise – this sightseeing cruise departs from Tempozan Harbor and looks like a pirate ship!
2PM Kids Plaza Osaka
After you have finished having fun in the Bay area, head to the north of the city to Kids Plaza Osaka. This museum for children is the first in Japan dedicated to child education and features several floors of interactive experiences to explore.
Highlights include the Kids Town indoor playground, a TV studio where kids can get behind the camera, and the Kids Lab where you can experience making different crafts and experiments.
Entry to Kids Plaza Osaka costs JPY1,400 per adult, kids aged 7 and upwards are JPY800, and 3-7-year-olds cost JPY500 each.
The museum is open daily from 9:30am-5:00pm but be sure to check the website before you go as it is occasionally closed during holiday periods.
Access: From the Bay area jump on the subway and take the Chuo Line to Sakaisuji Hommachi Station. Change for the Sakaisuji Line and travel 3 stops to Ogimachi Station. Kids Plaza is a 3-minute walk from here.
4:30PM Explore Umeda
Finish your day of activities in Osaka’s Umeda District, home to shopping malls, office buildings, and the Umeda Sky Building. You and the kids are sure to love the world’s highest escalator ride, the floating garden observatory, and taking in the views as the sun sets over the city.
The building is made up of two 40-storey towers that are connected at the top. At the top of the building is where you’ll find the observatory and atrium space, accessed by a ride up the world’s highest escalator. When you’re on the escalator it feels as if you are riding up into the sky! Once you’re at the observatory you can stay inside and enjoy the views or go out onto the open-air deck.
Buy your tickets at the admissions counter on the 39th floor or in advance here. Admission costs JPY1,500 per adult and JPY700 for children.
Access: From Kid’s Plaza take the Osaka Loop Line from Temma Station to Osaka Station. Umeda Sky Building is around a 10-minute walk from there.
6PM Dinner in Umeda
As your day in Osaka comes to an end check out these family-friendly restaurants for dinner in the Umeda area. I highly recommend the Grand Front Mall as it has a lot of restaurants to choose from and you can check the kind of food and whether they have highchairs for little ones in advance via their English guide here.
Other options to check out include:
You can check out the basement floor of the building of Umeda Sky Building where they have many Japanese restaurants to choose from.
Osaka is a great destination for families. With lots of exciting attractions and activities, it’s easy to have an unforgettable trip for the whole family with a little planning!
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Families here
1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Foodies
This itinerary is for serious food connoisseurs – every activity has a food or drink-related aspect, but don’t worry, you’ll be doing plenty of walking to burn off all those extra calories. Whatever you do be sure to try some of the famous and delicious Osaka street food. Happy eating! In this itinerary we’ll cover:
- Kuromon Food Market
- Cafe-hopping in bohemian Nazaki-cho
- Epic food halls of famous department stores
- A local cookery class
- Traditional izakaya and bars in Dotonbori
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Foodies here
9AM – Kuromon Market
Start the day at the bustling Kuromon Market in the Minami area. If you’re a foodie, then this popular market specializing in seafood is worth a visit. There are around 150 stalls in total and this lively covered market whose name means ‘black gate’ takes its name from a nearby temple that was destroyed by fire in 1912. Inside the market, you’ll find local specialties like okonomiyaki and takoyaki, as well as rarer delicacies like fugu, Japanese blowfish.
Don’t Miss: Maguro Entoki. This popular sushi store prepares fresh sushi daily using high-quality seafood received the same morning. Their most popular dish is the Otoro Nigiri (high-fatty tuna nigiri). Just make sure you go early because they always sell out!
11AM Shrine Visit and Café Hopping in Nazaki-cho
After you have finished exploring the market, head over to the nearby Umeda area and discover its traditional side at Tsuyuno Tenjinsha shrine and the Nazaki-cho neighborhood.
Despite the abundance of modern skyscrapers, shopping malls, and commercial office buildings that dominate the Umeda district these days, there is still a traditional side of this part of the city to uncover.
Tsuyuno Tenjinsha Shrine is the guardian shrine of the Umeda area and is said to have been founded 1,300 years ago. The buildings were destroyed during WW2 and reconstructed in the 1950s. The shrine is associated with a famous Japanese love story with a tragic ending about a prostitute and soy sauce shop owner, details of which you can find at the shrine in English.
The shrine is the location where the two characters declare their eternal love for each other, and as such, you can purchase a variety of charms said to bring good luck to couples who visit. The shrine is located at the end of a shopping arcade called Ohatsu-Tenjindori Shotengai, which is full of stores and places to eat.
Next, take a stroll to Nakazaki-cho and explore the independent shops, art galleries and cafes of this traditional neighborhood. Stop at one of the cute cafes for a coffee and sweet treat, such as Kaya Café, famous for its tofu tiramisu, Picco Latte serving coffee and baked goods along with beautiful, dried flower arrangements, and Salon de AManTo, a café located inside a 100-year-old house.
Access: From the food market, walk for 10 minutes to Namba Station and take the Midosuji Line to Umeda. The shrine is around an 8-10 minute walk from there.
1PM Umeda ‘Depachika’ Basement Food Halls
Back in the more commercialized area of Umeda and near Osaka Station, you’ll find department stores galore, which are home to depachika – impressive basement-level food halls that offer a selection of ready-made food to purchase from bento boxes to desserts.
The Umeda district in Osaka is said to have so many department stores that it’s Japan’s most competitive battleground for depachika – so you know that standards will be high!
According to the Osaka Tourism Bureau, each depachika has its own particular specialty such as confectionary or fresh produce, and Osakans are highly skilled at targeting specific stores depending upon their needs that day!
Even if you’re not feeling peckish, they are still fun to browse and buy food-related souvenirs. Check out the following stores if you have time:
Hankyu Department Store – connected to Osaka’s Umeda Station, this huge department store is one of Japan’s largest, spanning 15 floors! It has plenty of restaurants and cafes to discover as well as the food hall located in the basement.
Hanshin Department Store – this store dates back to the 1930s and has an impressive food hall with tons of different vendors offering dishes and specialties from across Japan. Whether you’re after home-cooked style dishes, freshly baked bread, or something sweet, you’re sure to find it here.
Daimaru Department Store – another well-known chain of department stores with branches across Japan, the Daimaru store in Umeda is located inside the epic Osaka Station City. The Feast Paradise food hall is split across two basement levels where you’ll find bento boxes, salads, general groceries, a bakery, confectionery, and drinks.
3PM Osaka Cooking Class
After exploring some of Umeda’s impressive food halls, it’s time to try making some Japanese cuisine yourself with a local cooking class! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Takoyaki Cooking Class – learn how to make one of the most popular local dishes, takoyaki (deep-fried octopus balls), like a real Osakan! Check prices.
Sushi Making Class – roll sushi like a pro during this sushi-making class that also includes dinner. Get a hands-on introduction to the art of sushi from a professional instructor, then sit down to enjoy your creations, along with other Japanese snacks. Check prices.
Sake Tasting Session – if you need a break from all the eating then why not opt for a sake-tasting lesson instead? Check prices.
6:30PM Dinner in Dotonbori
Finish your day in Osaka by taking advantage of the nightlife and entertainment on offer in the Namba area. You’ll find many bars and restaurants in Dotonbori; you can find a list of restaurants in English on the Dotonbori website.
Or you could try exploring the back street of Hozenji Yokocho, a traditional narrow, stone-paved lane next to Dotonbori Street filled with small dining outlets. Walking down this lantern-lit street at night is like stepping back in time and is a great way to get a glimpse of the atmosphere of Osaka’s past.
There is no website for Hozenji Yokocho so it’s best to just get stuck in and explore, however, if you feel anxious about trying to navigate the area by yourself, why not take a night food tour and let a local be your guide!
Why not finish off your night in classic Japanese style with some karaoke? There are plenty of karaoke bars to be found in the area so take your pick!
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Foodies here
1-Day Osaka Itinerary – History and Culture
If history and culture are high on your list of priorities when traveling, then this is the best itinerary for you. We’ll cover:
- Osaka Castle
- Osaka Museum of Living and Housing
- Shrine visit and local neighborhood walk
- Tombori River Cruise
- Ukiyoe Museum
- Amemura youth culture
- Traditional izakaya and hidden bars in Dotonbori
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Culture & History here
9AM Discover Osaka Castle
Start your day of exploration with a visit to Osaka Castle. One of the most popular tourist spots in Osaka, the castle is surrounded by a large park area which also doubles up as a prime cherry blossoms viewing spot during the springtime. As with many castles in Japan, the original structure was destroyed by fire and what remains in its place today is a concrete reconstruction that serves as a museum.
The castle is open daily from 9am until 5pm. Admission costs 600 yen per adult and is free for those under 15. If you have the Osaka Amazing Pass it’s also included here.
There are often seasonal events going on around the castle too. For example, as well as the aforementioned cherry blossom season you can see during the springtime, in winter the castle has some of the best illuminations in the city.
You can find out more information on the castle through the official website. For the latest events, the Visit Osaka site publishes a monthly event guide on what’s happening around the city.
Access: (Osaka Metro) Tanimachi 4-chome Sta., Morinomiya Sta., Osaka Business Park Sta., Temmabashi Sta., (Keihan) Temmabashi Sta.
10:30AM Osaka Museum of Living and Housing
After you have finished exploring Osaka Castle and its grounds, head north to the city’s Kita area for a trip to the Osaka Museum of Living and Housing.
At the Osaka Museum of Housing, you can rent a kimono and stroll through a replica street from the Edo period in Japanese history. The Edo era of Japan describes the period between 1603 and 1868. During this time, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. Contact with foreign countries was strictly controlled and Japanese citizens were forbidden from leaving the country.
On the 9th floor, the museum has replicated an entire life-sized Edo period town, where you can see what stores and houses would have looked like during this time. Visitors might feel like they have stepped onto a film set of a Japanese drama, and you can immerse yourself even further by renting a kimono for an additional fee. This is a really popular experience with tourists, so I recommend arriving as early as possible to avoid long waiting times and unwanted extras in your photos!
Opening times are from 10am to 5pm and admission costs 600 yen per person, with the kimono hire at an additional 500 yen. The museum occupies the 8th and 9th floor of a building so can be a little difficult to find. The museum is also closed on Tuesdays and various other days following national holidays so double-check in advance of your visit that it will be open.
Access: From Osaka Castle, walk to Tanimachiyonchome Station (approx. 20 mins) and take the Tanimachi Line 11 stops to Tenjimbashisuji 6-chome Station. The museum is 3 minutes on foot from there.
12:30PM Lunch and Shrine Visit
After you have finished at the museum, head over to the nearby Umeda area and discover its traditional side at Tsuyuno Tenjinsha shrine and the Nazaki-cho neighborhood.
Despite the abundance of modern skyscrapers, shopping malls, and commercial office buildings that dominate the Umeda district these days, there is still a traditional side of this part of the city to uncover.
Tsuyuno Tenjinsha Shrine is the guardian shrine of the Umeda area and is said to have been founded 1,300 years ago. The buildings were destroyed during WW2 and reconstructed in the 1950s. The shrine is associated with a famous Japanese love story with a tragic ending about a prostitute and soy sauce shop owner, details of which you can find at the shrine in English.
The shrine is the location where the two characters declare their eternal love for each other, and as such, you can purchase a variety of charms said to bring good luck to couples who visit. The shrine is located at the end of a shopping arcade called Ohatsu-Tenjindori Shotengai, which is full of stores and places to eat.
Next, take a stroll to Nakazaki-cho and explore the independent shops, art galleries and cafes of this traditional neighborhood. Stop for lunch at one of the cute cafes such as Kaya Café, famous for its tofu tiramisu, Picco Latte serving coffee and baked goods along with beautiful, dried flower arrangements, and Salon de AManTo, a café located inside a 100-year-old house.
Access: From the Osaka Museum of Living and Housing, jump on the subway at Tenjimbashisuji 6-chome Station and take the Tanimachi Line two stops (4-minutes) to Higashi-Umeda Station. The shrine is a 3-minute walk from there.
2:30PM Onwards – Explore the Minami District
Spend the rest of your time in Osaka getting to grips with the Minami district, a busy hub for Osaka’s entertainment, shopping, and dining options. Discover a traditional Japanese covered shopping arcade known as shotengai, do some people-watching in Osaka’s version of Harajuku, and try your hand at making traditional Ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
Access: From Umeda Station take the Midosuji Line four stops to Namba. The journey time is around 8 minutes.
Tombori River Cruise
Get a different perspective of the Dotonbori area with a 20-minute river cruise along the canal that passes under nine bridges. The boat departs from the Tazaemonbashi Bridge Boat Dock every 30 minutes from 1pm- 9pm on weekdays, and from 11am at the weekends. You can purchase tickets on the day from the counter on the first floor of the nearby Don Quijote store.
Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade
Probably one of Osaka’s most famous (and busiest) streets, this covered shopping arcade is 600m long and is located right in the heart of the Dotonbori area, famous for its Glico Man billboard and that restaurant with the giant crab outside. The shopping arcade is home to affordable fashion outlets like Uniqlo, Zara, and H&M, as well as 100-yen stores, cafes, restaurants, and izakaya. Just try to avoid visiting on the weekend when approximately 120,000 people descend upon the street per day!
Don’t Miss: the Castella Ginso store and café who have been making their signature Portuguese-inspired castella cakes since 1952. Upstairs you’ll find a retro-looking Japanese café where you can order original castella desserts such as the castella parfait or the castella French toast!
Amemura
This popular shopping district, also known as Amerikamura, inherited its name in the 1970s when warehouses were renovated to sell American goods such as clothes and records. Over time, the area became known as a place to find the latest fashion trends and today you can find plenty of quirky independent clothing stores, bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
Don’t Miss: The Big Step mall which is home to second-hand clothing stores, a retro pinball arcade, and a capsule toy shop.
Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum
This small museum showcases traditional Ukiyo-e woodblock prints depicting Kabuki performers. For an additional fee of JPY600, you can also participate in the museum’s woodblock printing experiences where you can try your hand at making your own prints. This lovely cultural experience needs to be arranged in advance; you can book it through the museum’s website here.
Kuromon Market
If you’re a foodie, then this popular market specializing in seafood is worth a visit. There are around 150 stalls in total and this lively covered market whose name means ‘black gate’ takes its name from a nearby temple that was destroyed by fire in 1912. Inside the market, you’ll find local specialties like okonomiyaki and takoyaki, as well as rarer delicacies like fugu, Japanese blowfish.
Don’t Miss: Maguro Entoki. This popular sushi store prepares fresh sushi daily using high-quality seafood received the same morning. Their most popular dish is the Otoro Nigiri (high-fatty tuna nigiri).
Dinner in Dotonbori
Finish your day in Osaka by taking advantage of the nightlife and entertainment on offer in the Namba area. You’ll find many bars and restaurants in Dotonbori; you can find a list of restaurants in English on the Dotonbori website.
Or you could try exploring the back street of Hozenji Yokocho, a traditional narrow, stone-paved lane next to Dotonbori Street filled with small dining outlets. Walking down this lantern-lit street at night is like stepping back in time and is a great way to get a glimpse of the atmosphere of Osaka’s past.
There is no website for Hozenji Yokocho so it’s best to just get stuck in and explore, however, if you feel anxious about trying to navigate the area by yourself, why not take a night food tour and let a local be your guide!
Why not finish off your night in classic Japanese style with some karaoke? There are plenty of karaoke bars to be found in the area so take your pick!
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Culture & History here
1-Day Osaka Romantic Itinerary for Couples
Traveling to Osaka with a loved one? Ok it may not be Paris in terms of romance, but with this itinerary, you can still have a special day with your special someone in Osaka:
- Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium
- Shopping boutique stores in Umeda
- Spa treatment or hot springs experience
- Observatory and dinner at Japan’s tallest building
- Bar-hopping and karaoke party in Dotonbori
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Couples here
10AM Start the Day at Osaka Kaiyukan
Begin your day exploring Osaka at the Osaka Kaiyukan, one of the city’s most loved attractions and one of the largest aquariums in the world. It’s currently rated the number 3 thing to do in Osaka on Tripadvisor too.
The Kaiyukan has recreated different areas of the Pacific Ocean for visitors to enjoy, from the sunlit Japan Forest to icy Antarctica. There are also several interactive exhibitions including the chance to get within arm’s reach of rock-hopper penguins.
Access: 5 min. on foot from Osakako Station of Osaka Metro Chuo Line/30 mins from downtown Osaka by subway
12PM Shopping and Lunch in Umeda
After you have finished exploring the underwater world at Osaka Kaiyukan, head over to the city’s Umeda district, the perfect place for some shopping and lunch. Umeda is a busy commercial district brimming with restaurants and shopping malls, so you’ll be sure to find something special for your special someone here! Here are a few ideas of some boutique stores to visit to buy unique Japanese gifts:
Iori @ Grand Front Osaka Mall
At the Iori store in Grand Front Osaka, you can purchase luxuriously soft hand towels made in Imabari, Japan’s largest and most-famous towel-producing region. Imabari towels are famous for their softness and high-water absorbency, using techniques that have been perfected over 120 years.
Kaneko Glasses @ Grand Front Osaka Mall
At the Kaneko Glasses Store in the Grand Front Osaka mall, you can purchase high-quality sunglasses made in Japan. The company’s dedicated craftsmen have been handmaking eyewear since 1958, so you’ll be sure to find a premium pair of sunglasses that will keep your eyes protected from harmful UV rays.
Hyozaemon @ Grand Front Osaka Mall
This Japanese company has been making chopsticks for more than 100 years. For the perfect gift buy your loved one a set of chopsticks that come presented in a beautiful wooden gift box and don’t forget to pick up one of their unique chopsticks holders too.
Ichiko Ichie @ Hankyu Sanbangai mall
This beautiful incense store sells more than 50 varieties of fragrant Japanese incense sticks. Incense appreciation is a serious business in Japan and is considered one of the classical art forms with only the most fragrant woods and high-quality ingredients selected.
Kuzefuku @ Diamor mall
Kuzefuku is a gourmet food store featuring delicious products from local producers in small towns and remote areas across Japan. Examples of unique items you can purchase include grated wasabi from Shizuoka, soy sauce brewed by master craftsmen, yuzu jam, and hard-boiled candies made by hand at a small independent sweet shop in Kyoto.
Hep Five Mall – Photo Booths and Ferris Wheels
If you have time, check out the Hep Five Mall in Umeda which has a couple of fun places to stop for couples. Visit the Namco amusement arcade and make some memories with some fun purikura photos! Pose for photographs in special photo booths that create images and stickers which are printed instantly and make unique souvenirs. Each purikura photo booth has a different theme such as a magazine cover girl or special filters and effects.
Hep Five is also home to one of Osaka’s iconic landmarks, a bright red Ferris wheel that provides panoramic views of the city. One ride takes approximately 15 minutes to complete, and tickets cost 600 yen per person.
Lunch in Umeda
As for restaurants, you can find every kind of cuisine you can imagine in Umeda. From French bistros and cute cafes to Japanese dining options like sushi, okonomiyaki, and yakitori. And don’t forget to check out the famous department store food halls too!
For something more unusual, check out Chano-ma in NU Chayamachi, a cute restaurant that serves healthy, simple Japanese-style dishes and desserts, with beds instead of tables and chairs!
Access to Umeda: From the aquarium walk to Osakako Station then take the Chuo Line to Bentenchō Station. Change here for the Osaka Loop Line to Osaka Station. The total journey time is around 20 minutes.
3PM – Enjoy Some Relaxation Time at A Spa or Hot Spring
After a busy morning, take some time to chill out in the afternoon with a spa visit. Here are a few ideas for places to check out:
Spa World
Located in downtown Osaka, close to Shinsekai’s Tsutenkaku Tower, Spa World is a big leisure complex that is home to hot springs, relaxation and massage rooms, and 8 different themed hot stone sauna rooms! Whilst the onsen (hot springs) are separated by gender, the sauna rooms are mixed gender (you wear a yukata) as are the Bade Zone swimming pools where swimwear is required.
You can check prices, opening times, and get more information on the website here.
Natural Open-Air Hot Spring Spa Suminoe
A little further out on the city outskirts, you’ll find the Spa Suminoe, which is home to outdoor and indoor natural hot spring baths, including an open-air bath set in a serene bamboo grove. Other facilities include foot baths and saunas, and a restaurant. As with most onsen, baths are split by gender, and no tattoos are allowed.
Check prices, opening times, and access information on the website here.
W Osaka
For a truly luxurious experience, pay a visit to the W Osaka hotel and book yourself into the hotel’s spa for a relaxing massage, facial, or body scrub in beautiful surroundings. You can book your treatment easily online through the website, and afterward, take some time to enjoy the hotel’s other facilities, such as the Wet Deck poolside dining terrace and bar, or stop for afternoon tea in the Living Room.
6PM Enjoy the Highest Views in Japan at Abeno Harukas
Finish your day in Osaka at one of the city’s highest and most romantic locations, Abeno Harukas. This 300-meter-tall skyscraper is the tallest building in Japan and is home to an observation deck, art museum, the largest department store in Japan, and restaurants. Visit the observation deck on the top 3 floors for jaw-dropping cityscape views, and check out the Harukas Heart on the 58th floor, a popular photo and proposal spot 😉
Why not finish off your evening with a romantic dinner for two at one of the building’s restaurants – with three floors of dining outlets to choose from, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes – from teppanyaki to pizza!
Access: nearest stations to Abeno Harukas are Abenobashi Station and Tennoji Station.
10PM Karaoke Party in Dotonbori
Still have energy? Take advantage of the nightlife and entertainment on offer in the Namba area for your final destination. You’ll find many bars among the neon lights in Dotonbori; you can find a list of restaurants in English on the Dotonbori website.
Why not finish off your night in classic Japanese style with some karaoke? There are plenty of karaoke bars to be found in the area so book your own private room, order some snacks and drinks, and sing the night away!
Access: from Abeno Harukas take the Midosuji Line 3 stops from Tennoji Station to Namba Station (journey time 6-minutes)
Download your free 1-Day Osaka Itinerary for Couples here
Heading to Tokyo or Kyoto during your Japan visit? Be sure to check out my 5-day Tokyo itinerary and 3-day Kyoto itinerary!
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