Osaka is a vibrant city that’s rich in history, culture, and attractions. From its stunning landmarks and world-class museums to its bustling shopping districts and incredible food scene, Osaka has something to offer every type of traveler. If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, here are six places you should visit.
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1. Osaka Castle
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Osaka Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history. Built-in the 16th century, the castle played a significant role in Japan’s feudal era and was the site of many important battles. Today, the castle has been restored and turned into a museum that’s open to the public.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and learn about its fascinating past. One of the highlights of the castle is the observation deck on the eighth floor, which offers stunning views of the city. You can also take a stroll through the castle’s beautiful gardens, which are especially breathtaking during cherry blossom season.
2. Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a bustling street that’s famous for its food and shopping. The neon lights and street performers make for an exciting atmosphere, and the local cuisine, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki, is not to be missed. The area is also home to some of Osaka’s best shopping, with everything from high-end boutiques to quirky souvenir shops.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Dotonbori is the Glico Running Man, a neon sign that’s been a fixture of the area since 1935. The sign features a runner crossing the finish line, and it’s a popular spot for taking photos.
3. Shinsekai
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Shinsekai is a neighborhood that has a retro vibe and is home to some of Osaka’s best street food. The area was built in the early 1900s and was designed to be a replica of Paris and New York City. Today, it’s a unique and vibrant part of the city that’s not to be missed.
One of the most famous landmarks in Shinsekai is the Tsutenkaku Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. The tower was originally built in 1912 but was destroyed during World War II. It was rebuilt in the 1950s and has since become a symbol of Osaka. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Another must-visit spot in Shinsekai is Kushikatsu Daruma, a restaurant that’s famous for its deep-fried skewers. The restaurant has been around since 1929 and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
4. Osaka Casino resort
It is scheduled that a new large casino resort will be completed in Osaka in 2029. This is a project that the government is putting a lot of effort into in order to attract more tourists, and it is expected to be an extremely luxurious and glamorous casino resort. This has become a hot topic in Japan because the popularity of online casinos in Japan is also increasing, as overseas online casinos such as Bons Casino are joining the Japanese market one after another. It is sure to become a lively place that not only overseas tourists but also domestic tourists will visit. If you are planning to visit Osaka later than 2029, this is one of the must-visit place.
5. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Source: japan.travel
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. It’s home to over 30,000 sea creatures from around the world, including penguins, otters, sharks, and rays. Visitors can see the creatures up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors.
One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Pacific Ocean tank, which is the largest tank in the aquarium and features a variety of marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays. The aquarium also has a variety of interactive exhibits that are great for kids and adults alike.
6. Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building is a unique and impressive building that offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck, which is located 173 meters above ground. The building’s design is also impressive, with two towers connected by a futuristic floating garden.
Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck, where they’ll be treated to stunning views of Osaka and the surrounding area. There’s also a restaurant on the observation deck that serves a variety of Japanese and international cuisine, making it a great spot for a meal with a view.
One of the most unique features of the Umeda Sky Building is the “Floating Garden Observatory,” which is a rooftop garden that’s suspended between the two towers. The garden is home to over 10,000 plants and offers a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city.
Aside from these six places, there are many other great attractions to explore in Osaka. For example, the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living is a fascinating museum that recreates life in Osaka during the Edo period, and the Shitennoji Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple that’s over 1,400 years old.
Source: osaka-info.jp
If you’re a fan of Japanese pop culture, you might also want to check out Nipponbashi, which is often called “Osaka’s Akihabara.” The area is home to many anime, manga, and video game stores, as well as cafes and restaurants with themed menus.
Overall, Osaka is a city that’s full of life and excitement. Whether you’re interested in history, food, shopping, or just taking in the sights, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, be sure to put Osaka on your itinerary and discover all that this amazing city has to offer.
