Osaka Guide

Why Visit Osaka

Osaka is Japan's food capital and its most laid-back major city, locals are known for being friendlier and louder than the Tokyo norm, and the street food scene is reason enough to visit.

Top Things to Do

Dotonbori's neon canal-side strip is Osaka's most famous sight, packed with street food stalls serving takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Osaka Castle and its surrounding park are worth a half-day, especially during cherry blossom season.

Universal Studios Japan is a major draw for families and Nintendo/anime fans, while the Umeda Sky Building offers one of the city's best observation deck views.

Food Scene

Osaka is nicknamed Japan's kitchen, try takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) and kushikatsu (fried skewers) in the Dotonbori and Shinsekai areas.

Best Time to Go

March-May and October-November offer mild weather; Osaka's summer (June-August) is hot and humid.