If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, you’ll want to make the most of your time in this lively city.
With so many places to visit and things to try, it can be tough to decide where to start.
This guide gives you a simple list of must-see spots, so you can experience the best of Osaka without feeling overwhelmed.
From famous sites to local favourites, you’ll find ideas to match any interest or travel style.
Here’s the Osaka bucket list for you.
Here are some Osaka bucket list experiences for you:
1) Osaka Castle and its Gardens
When you visit Osaka, you really should see Osaka Castle.
This landmark dates back to the 16th century and has a tall main tower you can climb for city views.
Inside the castle, you’ll find exhibits that share its history.
You’ll learn about battles and how people rebuilt the castle over time.
The castle gardens feel peaceful and full of greenery.
In spring, you might catch plum or cherry blossoms.
Many people just walk here or relax on the lawns.
The Nishinomaru Garden is especially known for its pretty trees and lovely scenery.
The grounds around the castle are perfect for a picnic or a short walk.
If you like photography, the castle’s walls, moats, and surroundings offer great photos in every season.
2) Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan sits right in the heart of Osaka.
It’s a great spot for families, friends, and anyone who enjoys theme parks.
The park is famous for rides based on popular films and games like Harry Potter, Minions, and Super Mario.
You can wander through Hogsmeade village or visit Super Nintendo World to see Mario and his friends.
Seasonal events and special attractions feature collaborations with popular anime and manga.
Queues get long, especially on weekends, so it’s smart to book your tickets online ahead of time.
You’ll want to set aside most of your day to experience the park.
3) Dotonbori Street Food Market
You can’t visit Osaka without stopping by the famous Dotonbori Street Food Market.
This bustling area is packed with bright neon signs and endless food stalls.
Enjoy local favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
They’re made fresh right before your eyes.
The smell of grilled meats and sweet treats fills the air.
It’s easy to wander from stall to stall, trying small bites along the way.
Don’t miss kushikatsu, those skewered and fried delights, and yakitori, the tasty grilled chicken skewers.
Whether you visit during the day or late at night, Dotonbori is always lively.
It’s the perfect place to just soak in Osaka’s food culture in a fun, casual setting.
4) Umeda Sky Building Observatory
The Umeda Sky Building Observatory is a must-see.
This modern skyscraper stands out with its unique design featuring two interconnected towers.
Head up to the Kuchu Teien Observatory on the 39th floor for great city views.
The open-air deck lets you see Osaka from above, and it’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Don’t miss the famous spiral escalator that “floats” between the towers.
Walking through it feels almost futuristic.
The observatory is easy to reach, only a short walk from Osaka and Umeda stations.
Admission costs around 1500 yen for adults and 700 yen for children.
Bring your camera for some memorable photos.
The experience gives you a new perspective of the city and it’s fun for all ages.
5) Shitennoji Temple
Shitennoji Temple is a highlight you won’t want to miss.
It’s known as the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, dating all the way back to the year 593.
As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll see impressive gates, peaceful gardens, and old stone paths.
The central area includes a five-storey pagoda that you can actually enter, which is pretty rare.
Shitennoji Temple offers a calm break from the city’s busy streets.
You might enjoy watching locals come to pray, or just take a quiet walk around the ponds full of turtles.
If you visit during festivals or special events, you’ll see even more of the temple’s traditions and culture.
It’s easy to reach by public transport, so you can add it to your trip without much hassle.
6) Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.
You’ll find it in southern Osaka, away from the city’s busiest spots.
It’s easy to reach by tram and feels peaceful compared to the city center.
The shrine is famous for its unique straight-roofed design.
This style sets it apart from many other Japanese shrines.
When you walk through the main gates, you’ll notice clean lines and bright red wooden buildings.
People come here to pray, take part in traditional rituals, and look at the famous arched Sorihashi Bridge.
It’s also popular with locals during New Year and festivals.
If you enjoy quiet places with history, you’ll appreciate Sumiyoshi Taisha.
Take your time exploring the grounds.
7) Kuromon Ichiba Market
If you love food, Kuromon Ichiba Market is a must-visit spot in Osaka.
This market has been around for nearly 200 years, making it one of the city’s oldest.
You’ll find over 150 shops selling fresh seafood, fruit, meat, and street foods like takoyaki and grilled skewers.
Many stalls cook food right in front of you, so you can snack as you stroll.
It’s busy but friendly, with lots of chances to try new Japanese dishes.
You can also shop for traditional sweets and souvenirs.
Getting there is easy as you’re just a short walk from the Dotonbori area or a quick train ride to Nipponbashi station.
8) Namba Parks Shopping Complex
Namba Parks sits right next to Namba Station in Osaka.
You can explore eight floors full of shops, restaurants, and even a cinema.
The complex is famous for its rooftop gardens.
With their trees and flowers, these gardens make it feel peaceful, even in the busy city.
It’s a great place to take a short walk and enjoy the view.
You’ll find a mix of Japanese and international brands here.
There are also many cafes and places to try local food, so you can rest or grab a bite between shopping.
The unique design of the building stands out with its curving lines and outdoor terraces.
Whether you come for the shopping, the gardens, or just to see the architecture, Namba Parks is worth a visit while you’re in Osaka.
9) Tempozan Ferris Wheel
If you want to enjoy great city views, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel is a good choice.
This huge Ferris wheel stands at 112.5 metres tall and is one of the tallest in Japan.
You’ll find the Tempozan Ferris Wheel in Tempozan Harbour Village, right next to the famous Kaiyukan Aquarium.
Each full ride takes about 15 minutes.
From the top, you can see across Osaka Bay and the city.
On clear days, you might even spot mountains in the distance.
The cabins move slowly, so you have plenty of time to relax and take photos.
It’s a fun stop for both families and friends.
10) Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
If you love marine animals, you should check out Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
It’s one of the largest aquariums in the world, sitting right in Tempozan Harbour Village near Osaka Bay.
You can get there from Osaka Station in about 15 minutes by train. Pretty convenient, honestly.
The aquarium features some wild displays, like a massive central tank where whale sharks just glide along.
As you wander through, you’ll spot sea life from all over the globe.
The path inside almost feels like you’re taking a dive underwater.
It’s a cool experience, especially if you like seeing creatures up close.
Kaiyukan is family-friendly and works for all ages.
Admission for adults usually costs around ¥2,700, and there are discounts for kids and older people.
You’ll also find spots to eat and shop nearby, so it’s easy to spend a few hours here without getting bored or hungry.
