Awesome Things to Do in Osaka for a Great Time

What enters your mind when you think of Osaka, Japan? Is it the amazing street food? The buzzing streets of Dotonbori? Or perhaps the Glico Runningman that you’d see in everyone’s newsfeed? Here, we'll share our list of awesome things to do in Osaka. So, get ready to take notes and pin these attractions!

Of course, we had to lead with food! The nation's kitchen has attracted food lovers from all over because of its massive culinary scene. This Foodie tour starts with a trip to Shinsekai, home to several food alleys that have stood the test of time. The local Kushikatsu is a must-try as its crunchy deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables will leave you wanting more!

But don’t stuff yourself too much because the main event starts at Dotonbori. What gave Osaka its reputation for amazing food? It's this place. Formerly the center of the country's rice trade, Dotonbori has continued its legacy by wowing people with its amazing food. Trying Dotonbori's famous takoyaki is among the top things to do in Osaka for most people. By the end of this tour, expect your stomach to be jumping for joy. Trust us on that!

Sightseeing never gets old! Osaka Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Japan and is, therefore, deserving of its spot on our list of best things to do in Osaka.

Roam the castle and uncover centuries of history and relics. At the top, take in the magnificent panoramic view of the city. For the chill travelers trying to look for things to do in Osaka, you'll definitely enjoy your visit to this magnificent castle! 

Drivers, start your engines and get ready for a must-try thing to do in Namba, Osaka that will make heads turn! Zip through the streets on this go-kart experience while dressed up as your favorite character. Depending on your package, you’ll drive past popular sightseeing areas like Namba, Dotonbori, and many more for up to three hours.

All you need is a Japanese driver’s license, a Japanese SOFA license, or an international driving permit to get started. Nowhere in the world will you get to explore a city this way. So, as you fill your list of things to do in Osaka, go ahead and put this at the top. You won’t regret it!

Like a moth to a flame, the beautiful lights at teamLab Botanical Garden will leave you entranced. The art collective teamLab has opened a permanent nighttime exhibition that transforms the garden’s natural beauty into an experiential art space. Imagine walking through a forest patch illuminated with magnificent neon lights that change interactively based on your movements. It’s truly an art display unlike any other!

Looking for relaxing things to do in Osaka? A trip to the Osaka Aquarium will set you on a calming adventure as you spend a day watching aquatic animals in their habitats. Join the virtual tour of the Pacific Ocean and uncover its mysteries. Finally, head to the Arctic zone and say hello to the cutest seals swimming in the world’s largest dome-shaped ceiling tank. These awesome creatures will surely put a smile on your face! 

No list of things to do in Osaka will ever be complete without Universal Studios Japan! Enter a world where all your favorite stories come together in a funtastic theme park full of attractions. 

Discover fun things to do in Super Nintendo World and Minion Park, while letting out your inner child. Potterheads, listen up! Your Butterbeer is waiting for you at Hogsmeade and it's getting warm. But while you're at it, you might as well get your wand in Ollivanders, too. Because what's a wizard without a wand? 

But if you’re a ride junkie, getting the Universal Studios Japan Express Pass 4 is an absolute hack! Maximize your time by skipping the lines for up to four popular rides with this amazing pass. That way, you can make the most of your stay at Universal Studios Japan and have a better experience!

Enter a world of art that stretches the imagination. The Tower of the Sun was created by artist Taro Okamoto, and it has become the home of numerous exhibits. Its unique design and many art pieces have attracted art lovers from all over. Spend a day admiring creations that represent the tower’s theme of Past, Present, and Future. If you need an activity to grease the creative gears in your brain, this is the place for it!

Great food, fun activities, and beautiful sights, what's not to like about Osaka? There’s just so much to experience in this vibrant city that you'll soon discover why people go back many times! But hey, that's Osaka for you.