Osaka is a rough and ready city that blends ancient traditions with modern advancements.
Whether you’re a history, culture, or technology fan, you’ll find something that interests you in Osaka.
You might think you know all about this busy city, but the average visitor is unaware of many hidden facts.
In this article, you’ll discover 14 little-known facts about Osaka.
They will deepen your appreciation for this remarkable city.
- 1) Osaka Castle's secret underground tunnels
- 2) Dotonbori's hidden alleyways
- 3) Osaka's unique jiggly cheesecake
- 4) Shitennoji Temple's rooftop garden
- 5) Secret sake bars in Umeda
- 6) Namba Yasaka Shrine's lion head
- 7) Mizuno's original okonomiyaki recipe
- 8) Korean Town Fun
- 9) Tsuruhashi's alleys
- 10) Sumiyoshi Taisha's arched bridge
- 11) Mount Kongo's hidden hiking trails
- 12) Osaka's ancient pottery markets
- 13) The hidden ninja house in Chuo Ward
- 14) Osaka's Retro Gaming Arcades
1) Osaka Castle’s secret underground tunnels
Did you know that Osaka Castle has secret underground tunnels?
These tunnels were designed for defensive purposes.
They allowed soldiers to move unseen beneath the castle grounds.
Some stories even suggest that these passages were used for quick escapes or surprise attacks.
Next time you visit, see if you can spot any hidden entrances!
Visiting Osaka? We have you covered:
- Osaka Kickstart: Hotspots & Hidden Gems Tours(Private or Group)
- Osaka Food Tour (13 Delicious Dishes at 5 Local Eateries)
- Deep Backstreet Osaka Tours
- Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour(Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori)
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2) Dotonbori’s hidden alleyways
When you explore Dotonbori, don’t just stick to the main streets.
The hidden alleyways are full of surprises.
There are small, cosy bars, unique shops, and traditional eateries.
It’s like stepping into a different world.
3) Osaka’s unique jiggly cheesecake
When you’re in Osaka, you can’t miss out on sampling the famous jiggly cheesecake from Rikuro’s.
Known for its soft and fluffy texture, this dessert is a treat for taste buds and the eyes.
It’s just a 5-minute walk from Osaka-Namba Station.
The shop has gained popularity because of its nostalgic bell rings, letting you know when your cheesecake is ready.
4) Shitennoji Temple’s rooftop garden
Shitennoji Temple in Osaka is super old.
But did you know it has a rooftop garden?
This garden is called the Gokuraku-jodo Garden.
It offers a peaceful spot with stunning views.
Make sure to check it out!
5) Secret sake bars in Umeda
When you’re in Umeda, you’ve got to check out its hidden sake bars.
These spots are perfect for anyone wanting to taste authentic Japanese sake away from the usual tourist places.
Some bars have small entrances, making them easy to miss.
This adds to their charm.
Many offer local sake you won’t find elsewhere.
6) Namba Yasaka Shrine’s lion head
You must visit the Giant Lion Head at Namba Yasaka Shrine in Osaka.
This massive structure stands 12 meters tall and 11 meters wide.
Built in 1974, it has been a landmark for almost 50 years.
7) Mizuno’s original okonomiyaki recipe
Mizuno, a beloved restaurant in Osaka, is famed for its original okonomiyaki.
You start by mixing a batter of flour, dashi, and egg.
The magic happens when adding cabbage, pork belly, and other goodies.
Cooking on a hot grill ensures a crispy exterior and a soft, flavourful inside.
8) Korean Town Fun
Korean Town in Osaka is a lively spot where you can experience Korean culture without leaving Japan.
Packed with shops, restaurants, and street food stalls, it’s a great place to enjoy Korean BBQ, try unique snacks, and shop for K-pop merchandise.
This vibrant area offers plenty, whether you’re looking for authentic Korean dishes or want to explore a fun part of the city.
9) Tsuruhashi’s alleys
You’ll find Tsuruhashi’s Korean BBQ alleys in Osaka’s Koreatown.
This place is absolute heaven for food lovers.
The area has small restaurants offering street food fresh seafood, and meat.
Visitors enjoy walking through the vibrant markets, where local vendors sell produce, speciality ingredients, and unique goods.
Tsuruhashi’s energetic atmosphere and rich food options make it a popular destination for locals and tourists looking for an authentic experience in Osaka.
10) Sumiyoshi Taisha’s arched bridge
When visiting Sumiyoshi Taisha, you’ll spot a striking arched bridge.
This bridge is called Sorihashi or Taiko-bashi. It connects the main entrance to the shrine grounds.
The bridge’s steep arch symbolises the division between the human world and the spiritual realm.
Don’t miss the chance to walk across it on your visit.
11) Mount Kongo’s hidden hiking trails
Mount Kongo in Osaka has many unexplored hiking trails.
While it is the tallest mountain in Osaka Prefecture, fewer explorers venture beyond the main paths.
You might enjoy the quieter trails for a more peaceful hike.
These hidden paths offer incredible views and a chance to see wildlife up close.
12) Osaka’s ancient pottery markets
Ancient pottery markets have existed in Osaka for centuries.
These markets are famous for their exquisite ceramics and unique designs.
You can find various pottery pieces, from traditional to modern styles.
Each piece reflects the area’s rich history.
Visiting these markets is like stepping back in time.
You get to see skilled artisans crafting beautiful pottery with time-honoured techniques.
13) The hidden ninja house in Chuo Ward
In the heart of Chuo Ward is a hidden gem known as the Ninja House.
An award-winning architect designed this unique home with a cleverly disguised front door resembling a three-metre wall.
Inside, you’ll find secret rooms and hidden passageways.
It’s like stepping into a real-life ninja’s hideout.
If you love adventure and Japanese culture, this place is a must-see.
14) Osaka’s Retro Gaming Arcades
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back when visiting Osaka’s retro gaming arcades.
In the Shinsekai district, these arcades are packed with vintage game machines from the 1980s and 1990s.
Shinsekai’s arcades offer a unique experience for both locals and tourists.
