Osaka, Japan skyline: the 50 most iconic buildings and best views in Osaka

Osaka Castle is one of those rare landmarks that lets you experience both history and modernity the moment it comes into view. Under a clear blue sky, the main keep rises like a perfectly framed painting—green-tiled roofs shimmering softly in the sunlight, golden ornaments catching the light, and the crisp white walls standing in striking contrast against the deep, endless blue. From afar, its grandeur instantly evokes the ambition and power of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s era. As you approach the castle grounds, the massive stone walls reveal their quiet strength. Each block feels like a silent witness to centuries of upheaval and rebuilding. Passing through the imposing gate, the castle’s tower slowly emerges in the distance, creating a sense of progression and anticipation—almost like stepping through the opening scene of a historical drama. Crowds flow in and out, yet the atmosphere remains surprisingly calm; instead of disrupting the experience, the people add vibrancy, reminding you that this historic site continues to be lived in, visited, and appreciated. Up close, the main keep is both majestic and meticulous. Its golden details shine without being ostentatious, while the pristine white exterior stands harmoniously among the sculpted pine trees. Looking up from the courtyard, you can’t help but feel that this structure is more than architecture—it is the embodiment of an entire era. Whether you come for the design, the history of the Sengoku period, the cultural significance of Osaka, or simply to take a peaceful walk through the expansive grounds, Osaka Castle offers a presence that is powerful and irreplaceable. It is a landmark that feels at once grand and gentle, ancient yet full of life. And as you leave and glance back one more time, the castle still stands against the bright sky, dignified and unmoving—a quiet reminder that this is a place worth returning to.

Osaka Castle is a very beautiful place on the outside with very nice grounds, but it’s not really a castle on the inside, it was rebuilt and turned into a museum after a fire, so don’t come in here expecting to see an actual castle on the inside. Very much skippable to go inside the actual museum, most exciting thing was the great view from above and the stamps. If you do end up coming here buy a ticket online, as ticket queue is very long, also do so from the official website, even if it is in Japanese, as it doesn’t have any extra fees.

Only if you love the history then worth the visit inside the castle you get to go up and you get a little museum of a tiny history of osaka castle but very crowded and you get an okay view of the top, you can do quick. There is a long queue for elevator best to take the stairs or you will be there forever and buy tickets online to avoid another queue to enter the castle. There is boat ride of the castle which is nice best to do on a good sunny day. Not much else but can be all done within 1 hour.

Osaka Castle is truly a breathtaking place to experience. The combination of rich history, impressive architecture, and panoramic views from the top makes it one of the most memorable landmarks in the city. Walking through the castle grounds feels peaceful and immersive, surrounded by greenery, water, and layers of history. Inside, the museum is well-structured and provides great insight into the castle’s significance and the story of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The highlight for me was the observation deck, offering a stunning 360° view over Osaka — especially beautiful on a calm day. Whether you’re interested in culture, architecture, photography, or simply want a scenic place to explore, Osaka Castle delivers on all levels. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Osaka — it’s a place where you truly feel the spirit and legacy of Japan.

Beautiful, but so crowded! Do expect a lot of people during your visit. You can also walk up and enter the castle, but expect a long wait. The grounds are clean and expansive, featuring water, like ponds, and lots of greenery. I really loved looking at this beautiful and historic area! Swing past if you have the time, I reckon dedicate at least an hour to really soak everything in.

Visiting Osaka Castle on a Sunday is definitely worth it, but it gets very crowded. The busiest hours tend to be between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, so the flow of people is constant. If you can buy your tickets in advance, it’s much better (not sure if it’s possible), the line for same-day tickets can take around 30 to 40 minutes, and that’s before starting the walk through the museum up to the top floor. The interior is interesting, with several exhibits on each level, and the view from the top is great, although you’ll be moving along with a lot of visitors. Outside, the castle grounds offer plenty of food options and several souvenir shops. Just note that only one of them is tax-free if you’re planning to purchase gifts. Overall, it’s a beautiful landmark and a good experience as long as you go prepared for the crowds. Tips • ⏰ Avoid 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM if you want fewer crowds. • 🎟️ Buy tickets in advance to skip the long line. • ⏳ Expect 30–40 minutes of queue for same-day entry. • 🏯 The climb to the top is steady but crowded. • 🍡 Plenty of food stalls and small shops around the castle. • 🛍️ Only one souvenir shop is tax-free. • 📸 The top floor offers the best views worth the patience.

Yes the castle was rebuilt in the 1930s, but it remains beautiful. The massive castle walls; however, are not recent and their size took my breath away. How such a massive castle and moat was breached in the war of unification is amazing. Visited on a weekday in November and it was pretty busy, but very manageable. Inside the large European style building there is an excellent historical timeline in English. Wonderful woman working took time to provide in depth explanations. She was an amazing asset for this site.

We had a day trip in Osaka and spent most of our time shopping so we wanted to see something else. This tower is very cute. It's fairly low tech and a little whimsical with the odd mascot and video they play in the elevator. Definitely recommend the outer terrace view to not get glare in your photos. There is also a slide that people were doing!

I came here more than 7 years ago when there were not as crowded as now. You need to pay extra 300 yen to go to the top of the tower to get a better view and get a feel of the breeze. Queue to reserve a time slot to enter though. Without the Amazing Pass, I don't think I will come here again. You can have a meal after the visit at the surrounding areas.

I popped the area for a visit after dinner one evening. I did not go up the tower but took pictures of it from the street. It didn't seem as tall as I imagined but it was certainly one of the more popular landmarks here. The tower had good lighting and can be seen from all points arounf the block.

The tower is really cool from the outside day or night. We paid to go up and the slide, however the queues were so long and we weren't really told about them, that we decided we didnt want to queue for the slide after having to queue fo so long to go to the observation tower. Also we paid to go out on the outside bit, but it was confusing and ended up in a lift back to the ground floor. All in all a bit of a fail, but its a great tower from the outside. Probably wouldn't recommend going up if you've already been up Tokyo Tower.

This 103m tall tower is a good way to see the view of shinsekai from an elevated area. Inside the tower there are eateriesd as well as shops, and a small display museum. There is also a display of authentic and old style photos and old souvenirs.

Super fun retro style tower with great views of the city. Recommend getting the extra pass for the outdoor observation deck, you get great photos! Be prepared to queue for a while to get up to the deck though.

One of my favourite things in Osaka! The view is stunning and super cool! We mostly enjoyed the balcony with glass floor :)) It’s not crowded at all and it’s very affordable as well!

Universal Studios Japan is a wonderful park for both kids and parents. The atmosphere is vibrant and full of energy—the entertainers and staff may look exhausted, but they continuously smile, dance, and greet guests, pouring their energy into the experience. However, the park can get quite crowded. Unless you opt for a VIP pass, expect to wait around 40 minutes for most attractions. As an American theme park located in Japan, the entry fee is about $90, and while many experiences inside are free, you'll need to budget an additional $90 if you want to access the Mario section (which is really aimed at die-hard fans—not necessarily for everyone). Additionally, if you plan to eat, budget around $50 on average for food (one meal). One thing I found disappointing was the lack of affordable costumes or hats. Offering items around $5-$8 for costumes or Mario hats would enhance the park's atmosphere and foster a greater sense of community among visitors. It would also be a nice touch for guests to choose their favorite movie or franchise and receive a corresponding badge. This could create a sense of unity, similar to the houses at Hogwarts, and enrich the overall experience. A highlight of my visit was the mobile app, which conveniently shows wait times for attractions. It's user-friendly and features two mini-games in PWA format—very fun! I believe the park could benefit from even more interactive quests for visitors to enjoy. (For example, searching for objects while traveling in a park to fill out a badge) Overall, I give Universal Studios Japan a 4 out of 5. It would be great to see more affordable souvenirs available to help visitors feel like a part of the studio, as the audience and fans are just as much a part of the movie success as the actors and characters themselves.

WOW. Exceeded expectations!! Tips for a smooth day at USJ: 1. Bring at least one 100 Yen coin for lockers (you’ll get it back). Change machines are available if needed. 2. Arrive early—about 45 minutes before opening—for the rope drop. 3. Hit Flying Dinosaur and the Hollywood rides first before crowds build. 4. Small snacks seem fine to bring in. Pack an empty water bottle to refill throughout the day. NOTE: There are a coiple convenience stores right off the train. 5. Must-do: Nintendo World! Even if just browsing, splurge on the Light-Up Star popcorn purse and a souvenir drink bottle. 6. If budget allows, buy an Express Pass—it makes a huge difference. 7. There's more variety to eat outside of the park, even a Shake Shack! The rest of the park: - Food is fun but mixed—the turkey leg was my standout favorite. - Plenty of characters to meet and endless photo ops. - Transit is simple: just follow the crowds. - The park and all bathrooms are clean spotless, well-organized, and the staff are incredibly warm. They even clap when you return from rides, which adds a joyful touch. Final thought: USJ is a place to enjoy to the fullest—lean into the atmosphere, savor the details, and let the day feel cinematic.

We went to USJ on Halloween 2025. It was raining, but this didn't slow the excitement of the crowd. So many people dressed in character. The lines are long, get in the park early and tackle your number 1 ride early. Book an Express Path before you enter to ensure you get more rides for less waiting. The animinotronics and rides are awesome. Go the some of the shows, sure they are spoken in Japanese, but the emotion of the actors and staff tells the story. Highly recommend the Jaws tour. Awesome.

One of the best themeparks in the world, probably better than disneyland too. Would recommend prebooking your tickets a month prior for a weekday.Also, would highly recommend getting the express pass 7 to cover all the high-thrill rides. The park itself is very convinient to travel through and from anywhere in Osaka, thanks to public transport (JR and Subway). Tip - if youre not buying the express pass, head to the park enterance 1 hour before the official opening time so you can access the supernintendo world/donkey kong land for free (else you need a timed ticket which is hard to get)

I had never been to a Universal park before, and I confess I even cried with emotion when I entered. I loved the experience and the immersion in this very whimsical and cool universe. In Super Nintendo World, you truly feel like you are inside the games, and all the staff pays special attention to ensure the experience. We would find an attendant, and because it was Halloween month, we would say 'trick or treat' and receive candy or a sticker. At the end, we went to the customer service center and asked for the stamp, and the lady brought it to us on top of a beautiful red velvet cushion and even gave us a '1st time visiting' sticker. Incredible! The park was not on its busiest day, but even so, the lines were super long (up to 2 hours), but every ride was worth it. Next time, I will definitely buy the Express Pass to be able to enjoy all the attractions calmly. I loved the experience

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Universal Studios Japan is an incredible theme park with amazing attractions, immersive worlds, and some of the best entertainment you’ll find anywhere. The attention to detail in areas like Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is outstanding, and the rides are a perfect mix of fun, thrills, and nostalgia. Crowds can be intense, and waiting times get long—especially for the most popular rides—so buying Express Passes is almost essential if you want to make the most of your day. Food options are fun and thematic, though prices are on the higher side, which is normal for major theme parks. Overall, USJ delivers a fantastic experience full of energy, creativity, and unforgettable moments. Just plan ahead and prepare for long lines.

Beyond the famous rides, what I loved most about USJ were the small details people rarely mention. The staff are incredibly friendly and really stay in character, which adds so much fun to the day. The park is very clean and well-organised, and even the queues are beautifully themed with lots of little details and props to enjoy while waiting. It’s also very family-friendly, with clear signs, helpful crew members, and easy navigation. Even the food stands are well run and thoughtfully themed. Overall, USJ’s attention to detail and amazing staff make the whole experience feel magical from start to finish. Would definitely visit again!

This initially unassuming building has a quite good free area, with a shop and great views, but it's worth paying to go all the way up! No prebooking was needed when we came during a weekday morning. The open-air top has good views of the surrounding area, although the ideal south view is blocked by other skyscrapers, unfortunately. There's a very small museum with the history of the building, containing an excellent time-lapse video of the unbelievable central area raising process. There's a fairly good food & drink shop inside, worth a rest here if you can get a good window seat.

Due to the roadworks and construction this was difficult to find. But once we found it, it was a lovely building. I used the Osaka Amazing Pass. Note that if you come before 3pm or is free with the pass. Unfortunately we can after 3pm so the pass allowed us a 10% discount. We bought the tickets on the day. There was no queue and the tickets were readily available. Then it was a lift and an elevator up to the top and the skyline was amazing. There is a specific area for photo spot. Not controlled by the staff but everyone was respectful by queuing up and not taking too long to take the pics. It was an amazing view. Also walked up the stairs to the outer layer of the sky building. It's outdoors with ample amount of safety so wonderful to go out and feel the warm breeze.

One of our first activity in Osaka. We visited this building and queued for some time to get access to the elevator which will take us up to the observation floor - which is the top 2 floors of this building. Once upstairs, you have to get tickets and then, you are free to roam around the 2 floors. There are plenty of nice view all around. There is a cafe, lavatory as well as a souvenir shop. The rooftop is the most popular spot as you can view the Osaka skyline and it is gorgeous in a clear night. I wish we had come here during sunset as I am sure we could get aome amazing pictures then. We spent quite sometime admiring the cityscape. There are a few platforms set up for taking photos. We finally left when it became too cold due to the strong, chilly wind.

Walked from Osaka Castle to Umeda Sky Building and the walk itself was nothing special, with the aggravating factor that there are roadworks going on. Also, expect to wait a long time to take the lift (almost 1 hour), and then to come down (it doesn’t matter if you buy a ticket in advance or not, it’s just the normal waiting time to take the lift as there are only two that take turns). The views are ok, but you clearly realise (if you haven’t done so already) that Osaka is a very grey and brownish city, with too many buildings. You almost see no green, no nature. Also, most of the windows are blocked by tables and chairs of the café and people seem to love to block your access to them, so it can be tricky to take decent pictures. Once again, souvenir shops and I didn’t really care for what they were selling. Was hoping for a great experience as every blog tells us it’s a must-see place, but in my opinion it wasn’t really worth the walk (it’s far from everything) and I preferred the views from the Osaka Castle. Oh, and bring cash, I believe the tickets machines only accept cash (2000 yen per adult), but I’m not sure.

The Umeda Sky Building is an architectural must-see! The views from the Floating Garden Observatory are breathtaking, offering a truly beautiful 360-degree skyline. ​What truly made our visit exceptional was the staff; they were incredibly helpful with our 2-year-old and her pram, so attentive and caring making access feel genuinely VIP. The building is easily reachable from Umeda Station via a short, straightforward walk. ​Travel Tip: Buy your tickets ahead of time to skip the long queues! Also, planning your trip for an early morning slot or a weekday will greatly reduce wait times. Before or after your visit, explore the many great eateries in the surrounding Umeda area, especially the retro Takimi Koji gourmet street downstairs. Highly recommended for all visitors, especially those with small children!

The Umeda Sky Building is a landmark in Umeda, Osaka, noted for its unusual design. A popular observatory deck is located there. I used my Osaka E-Pass to access the Kuchu Teien Observatory. You can get there by doing the following: 1. Take the escalator to Fun Fun Plaza. 2. On the third floor, line up for the elevator that goes to the ticket counter on the 30+ floor. The line can be long but it moves fast and there are two elevators. It took me about 25 minutes to reach the floor. 3. Once you reach the ticket counter, show your E-Pass. After that, take the escalator to the observation deck where you’ll find a café and a souvenir shop. 4. To reach the rooftop deck, take the stairs. 5. Going down involves taking the escalator and then the elevator.

We visited Umeda Sky Building on a Monday night. We had to pay ¥1800 a discounted price from ¥2000. This is the price if you want to have full access up to the roof deck. The tower is 175meters tall with a lounge and cafe area, souvenir shop, gachapon, lock and keys for lovers, and very nice view of Osaka and nearby areas. Coming at night will let you experience a starry floor. A piece of advice, best wear white things as the UV lights make white things shine so it will look great on photos. However, mind you it is not for the weak hearted as the center part overlooks a very tall space where you can see the whole building down.

The view was breathtaking , and it wasn’t too busy the day we went. Stayed past sunset and it’s stunning! Highly recommend this one over the Umeda Sky Garden if you have to choose one.

I only had two days in Osaka but am glad I had Abeno Harikus on my list of places to visit. The view was superb. A little pricey but at least I didn't have to wait in a queue to get in. The experience was definitely worth the 2000 yen. Next time I'll go at night.

Visited the observatory on a Monday afternoon, no wait to buy tickets and a quick elevator ride to the 60th floor and you are there. Provided a great view of Osaka and just how big the city is. Worth staying till sunset and into twilight to get some nice photos but does start to get busy then. Can have a beer and sit overlooking the city in the open courtyard

Honestly… it wasn’t worth the hype. The building is tall, yes — “tallest in Japan” sounds cool on paper — but once you’re actually up there, the view is kind of generic cityscape, nothing memorable. Osaka’s skyline just doesn’t have dramatic landmarks like Tokyo Tower, Skytree, Rainbow Bridge, or even Kobe Port Tower. Everything just looks gray and flat. The ticket price also feels way too high for what you get. You’re basically paying a premium just to see rooftops. The “Sky Garden” is more like a cafeteria patio than anything magical. A couple of photo spots, some glass panels, and then… you’re done in 10 minutes. If you’ve been to Umeda Sky Building already, or if you’ve been to other major city observatories, Abeno Harukas feels extremely skippable. I wouldn’t recommend going out of your way. Two stars.

Tallest observatory tower in Osaka. Came here at 8pm on a weekday, and there was no lineup but I missed the beautiful sunset scene. If you want to take advantage of both the twilight and night view, then time your visit. There is a bit of light effect while taking the elevator up to the 60F and that was interesting.

The top deck viewing platform consists of several floors with chances to shop at a souvenir shop and eat in the middle of the observatory. It's beautiful at sunset! You also have the chance to get a photo done for free in a black&white newspaper style or printed in color against a fee.

Incredible views — one of the tallest skyscrapers in Japan. It’s definitely worth going up, both for the photos and the overall experience. They even have stamps at the top and give you a small photo for free.

Ok so I did go on an afternoon in the summer holidays in August so the queue was about 40 mins but I didn’t have to book ahead. The ride is incredible, weirdly thrilling because of the rocking of the gondolas as you go up. Whole ride is about 30 mins to go all the way round which I think is great value, and inside the gondolas they have little maps in each direction to point out the sights etc Honestly really fun, and right next to the an aquarium. I went on a whim because the aquarium tickets were sold out for the day and it really turned my day around. Thank you Tempozan Ferris Wheel, you really turned my frown upside down.

Really enjoyed this little excursion. Used the Osaka Amazing Pass as tickets , queue was empty, chose the transparent carriage. The whole thing took 15mins and it was nice to see the shine. Can also see universal studios in the distance. Highly recommend it

This is my second ferris wheel ride in Osaka after the Hep five in Umeda. The entrance area is much easier to find, feel more relaxed and less stressful than Hep Five. And I could say I like Tempozan much more. The scenary is great and the view have great balance between shore and the cities. The duration is also perfect. Not too long and not too short, it end exactly when I want it to end. The ticket price is okay I think it's a good way to pass time if you're waiting for your entry to the Kaiyukan Aquarium or Santa Maria cruise as these three location is very close to each other.

Riding the Tempozan Ferris Wheel was an incredible experience. Located near Osaka’s bay area, the Ferris wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Osaka Bay, and on clear days, even Mount Ikoma and Akashi Kaikyō Bridge in the distance. The ride is smooth and relaxing, and the cabins are spacious and well-maintained, making it comfortable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. I especially enjoyed seeing the city lights sparkle in the evening — it was truly magical. The area around the Ferris wheel, including Tempozan Marketplace and Tempozan Park, adds to the fun, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring before or after the ride.

I personally think the Tempozan Ferris Wheel is a great place for couples to experience together! 🎡 The adult ticket costs only 900 yen, which is quite affordable, and one full rotation takes about 15 minutes. I recommend going around 4 p.m. or closer to sunset — if the weather is good, you might get to see a beautiful sunset! Inside the cabin, you’ll have your own private space, so you can even play some music to set the perfect mood. It’s especially nice to visit after exploring the aquarium — just time it right and enjoy the ride!

There can be a wait time of 10mins if you choose to take the see-through cart. They maintain high safety standards. Can get a pretty neat glimpse of the osaka aquarium area and the port area and many other places. Would recommend.

We rode the Tempozan Ferris Wheel and it turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable experience. I’m not usually a fan of ferris wheels, but this one felt very safe and smooth the entire time. The views from the top were beautiful, especially overlooking the bay and city. It’s a simple attraction, but I genuinely enjoyed it more than I expected.

What a magical shrine which also felt like a time portal into the past. Super close to the subway station. It was fairly quiet when we went with just a minimal amount of visitors. Cool to see some family portraits being taken here. Really serene, peaceful and such slow paced delight. Anyone in need of a system reset? Meow?

This is a very nice temple to visit while in Osaka. The grounds are beautiful and the temple is extremely historical. You can also get goshuin stamps here if you wish for 500 yen. There is no entrance fee to this temple. I would highly recommend you visit this temple.

One of my favorite shrines in Osaka. It was an easy commute from namba, and they had a tram that takes you all the way down to Sakai. I love this area because it was peaceful, there was very little tourists, there was a beautiful garden nearby, and the bridge is soooo wonderful! I really liked how we also saw a marriageceremony there as well? Im not sure but it was anice way to see the culture. It was a serene experience.

Another of the many beautiful shrines of Japan. This one is very big and seemingly having many buildings encompassing it. There are some massive beautiful trees here as well as their all empowering cat god. There are many amazing buildings, structures and bridges here, which are all beautiful and picturesque. Many places here are used for photo spots, yet it is not overrun by tourists. We also witnessed a christening or wedding which was gorgeous.

A quiet, beautiful shrine. An excellent place to find peace and re-charge. Wonderful architecture and of course, the spectacular bridge! Well worth the trip and for tourists like me, taking the Osaka tram from Tennoji station is a beautiful way to get there! Highly recommended.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sumiyoshi Taisha — 住吉大社 A beautiful and peaceful shrine with a strong sense of history. The grounds are spacious, quiet, and easy to explore at your own pace. The bright vermillion bridge is the highlight — elegant, steep, and picture-perfect. Crossing it feels symbolic, like stepping into a calmer world. You cannot walk through the shrine halls, but you can view them closely from the outside. Even so, the architecture is special — simple, clean, and distinctly Sumiyoshi-style, different from most other shrines in Japan. The atmosphere is calm rather than commercial. Plenty of open areas to wander, reflect, and enjoy the natural surroundings. Easy to reach and worth the visit if you want something traditional without feeling crowded. Peaceful, historical, and memorable.

We visited this shrine as part of a group bus tour whilst visiting Kobe, Japan on a cruise ship. This large Shrine is in Osaka and well-worth visiting for its diversity, space, ambience and peaceful feel. We used Google for "what to do" in Osaka and this shrine did not come up in our search. Worth remembering if you visit, though...

Two exhibitions were showcased in April 2025, with a combined entry fee of 1,200 yen. The curators did a great job—definitely worth a visit!

I came here just to see the architecture! Pelli's free form elements vs the controlled elegance of the Science Museum... seems like a "quarrel" ongoing!

This is such a wonderful museum to visit if you’re in Osaka! I spent about 3 hours across the two exhibits they were showing. Both exhibits were very well curated and thought-provoking. As an artist, I feel both, inspired and creatively re-charged. My favorite piece on display was a triptych in oils by the artist Sakae Ozawa, titled “Das Geheimnis der Welt schmeckt nach Honig” - (The Secret of the World Tastes Like Honey). Thank you to all the museum staff and those that put effort into curating these exhibits❤️

I saw the No Boundaries and Undo, Redo exhibits during my visit. It was very conducive for viewing, the place was very spacious and quiet. Also very inclusive and accessible, as well as for non-Japanese-speaking individuals like me (content/audio guides available).

My trip to The National Museum of Art, Osaka was one of the highlights of my vacation. I visited the Boundaries and Undo, Redo exhibitions and enjoyed them tremendously. A lovely space to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city too. The science museum and Nakka Museum are next door, so you can visit them all on the same day, if you feel inclined.

Small fine art museum. At least there is a Miro painting. I recommend the architecture of the museum.

We were able to browse collection 2 and enjoyed the different styles and mediums used in the various works. I could easily have spent several more hours just studying. Overall an immensely peaceful place to visit and soak in some more recent expressions.

Much bigger than main temple in Tokio while very quiet, not much tourists. You can enter the main temple with Budda and Pagoda as well. Pictures inside are prohibited that why most of reviewers have only outside view. Worth the price of 400 yen.

This was one of the biggest and most beautiful temples i have visited in Osaka, Japan. It is about 12 minutes walk from Tennoji station and park. Around 90% of it is free of charge, unless you visit a closed area with the tallest building in it. I enjoyed the view, the turtles in the pond, the old buildings as well as the unique style this temple had to offer.

Remarkable shrine complex well worth visiting in Tokyo. Take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds and feel the spirit in each observance.

I think we weren't able to see the whole thing because the gates are closed, it seemed.

In april the ticket booth was closed at 16.10PM,

Beautiful temple

The Best

This place is absolutely insane — full of people, shops, food, everything! Go with an empty stomach and a couple of hours to try everything you can think of. If you don’t like strong smells, seeing animals, or exotic foods, I’d recommend skipping this market. I loved it! Definitely try the eel, okonomiyaki, takoyaki, wagyu beef, shabu-shabu, and of course, sushi.

An amazing authentic Japanese Market experience. Full of sounds, smells, sights, and people!!! Incredible eating options made freshly. Very clean with a cleaner who walks around with mobile trash cans. (very very handy).

Kuromon Ichiba Market has long been known as “Osaka’s Kitchen,” but stepping inside reveals that it’s far more than a simple marketplace — it’s a lively celebration of flavor, culture, and everyday life. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by the energetic calls of vendors, the aroma of fresh seafood, and aisles overflowing with produce, snacks, and specialties that showcase the city’s culinary soul. The market has a lively rhythm, but never feels overwhelming. Each stall has its own personality and charm. Among the highlights of your visit were the beautifully prepared slices of melon — a perfect duo of vivid green and glowing orange. One bite and the fruit bursts with juice, offering a sweetness that’s rich yet refreshing. This kind of perfectly ripened fruit is exactly what Kuromon is famous for: premium quality made accessible to everyone. Then there’s the strawberry skewer — simple, vibrant, and irresistibly delicious. Each berry is plump and brilliantly red, with a balance of sweetness and gentle acidity that delights with every bite. No sugar coating, no glaze — just the pure, natural flavor of high-quality fruit. It’s the ideal snack to enjoy while strolling through the market. What makes Kuromon Ichiba truly special is its diversity. From freshly grilled seafood and sashimi to meat skewers, sushi, seasonal produce, sweets, and dry goods, every few steps reveal a new aroma or a new temptation. Despite the crowd, the market feels clean, well-organized, and welcoming, allowing visitors to explore comfortably and enjoy Osaka’s authentic street-level charm. Kuromon Ichiba Market captivates because it puts Osaka’s food culture directly in front of you — fresh, abundant, and full of character. Whether you come for a seafood feast, for sweet seasonal fruits, or simply to experience the rhythm of local life, Kuromon is a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

Another so called must go tourist place in Osaka. A lot of tourists here. And all the prices are also very touristy. Well, its willing seller, willing buyer. Most of the stalls selling seafood and food stuff. Saw some puffer fish slices, didn't dare to try. Again, it was pack with tourists the time we went during summer. If you never been there, why not.. but once is enough.

The market is huge! Soooo many different stalls, food shops, and overall a great vibe. I wasn’t able to come here my first 2 trips to Osaka. And Im happy i did now because I just ate so much food. Went at opening 9am, and there was not much people. Worth it to come here!!!

*Huge Rip-Off at “Furusato no Kaori” in Kuromon Market – Beware Tourists!* Total tourist trap! I ordered just a few grilled seafood items — one shrimp, one squid skewer, one scallop, one oyster, and a fish — plus one can of Coke (800 yen!). When the bill came, it was an unbelievable 14,950 yen for this small plate of food (see photos). Before ordering, I asked how much it would cost, but the staff refused to answer clearly and kept dodging the question. Now I understand why — they were clearly trying to overcharge tourists. The food itself was average at best, definitely not worth anywhere near that price. Be careful! Don’t fall for this scam like I did. Check prices before ordering, or better yet, avoid this place completely.

I love visiting markets during trips, and this one is definitely on the touristy side, but with plenty of street food to try. We had some oden, which was warm, satisfying, and a delicious street food. The award-winning melon and milk ice cream shop was a real highlight, the milk ice cream was impressively good, even surpass those many in Hokkaido. We also tried grilled scallop, which was just okay. The giant cracker was our least favorite, fun for photos but too hard to enjoy, and we gave up after a few bites. It was less crowded than I expected during our visit in late July in the morning. Overall, it is worth visiting at least once.

Very cool museum about science with a lot of interactivity. It will especially be a joy to children and many of them were visiting beside me and enjoying their time very much. I was worried at first for the language but a lot of the panels have a qr code that offers translated content in multiple languages. However, their temporary exhibitions and shows were not translated, so be wary about that. I don't know how often their exhibition rotates but I recommend going at least once.

The Osaka Science Museum (大阪市立科学館, Osaka Municipal Science Museum) is located on Nakanoshima Island in central Osaka, between the Dōjima and Tosabori Rivers, in Kita-ku. Its central theme is “Space and Energy”, and the museum’s mission is to encourage a “culture of enjoying science” by offering interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences that let visitors explore scientific phenomena in an engaging way. ⸻ History and Management The current museum opened in 1989 to celebrate the centennial of the city of Osaka. However, its roots go back to 1937, when the city opened the “Osaka City Electricity Science Museum,” which was Japan’s very first science museum and home to the country’s first planetarium. The present-day museum was partly funded by a donation of 6.5 billion yen from the Kansai Electric Power Company, and the building was designed and constructed by Takenaka Corporation. Today, the museum is run as a municipal facility, under the direct management of the City of Osaka. ⸻ Layout and Floors The museum consists of four main exhibition floors, with a planetarium located in the basement. The recommended route begins on the top floor and gradually descends floor by floor. In total, the building covers about 8,920 square meters, and the museum houses around 200 scientific exhibits and interactive installations. On the fourth floor, visitors will find exhibits focusing on the universe, astronomy, and scientific discovery. This area highlights the planets, stars, and the history of scientific progress related to space. The third floor is dedicated to familiar chemistry. Here, exhibits showcase different materials such as metals, plastics, fibers, and medicines. Many of these are presented in ways that allow visitors to observe, touch, or even smell, making the experience highly interactive. The second floor is designed as the “Enjoy Science” space. This floor is filled with playful exhibits such as magical mirrors, suspended balls floating in streams of air, transparent pianos, echo tubes, and experiments with light, sound, and motion. While these displays are geared toward children, they are entertaining and educational for all ages. The first floor focuses on electricity and energy. Exhibits explain how energy is generated and used, with hands-on sections where visitors can, for example, generate electricity manually by pedaling a bike. This floor introduces the principles of power and its role in everyday life. Additionally, live Science Shows are held on the third floor at set times throughout the day, where staff members conduct fun experiments for audiences. ⸻ Planetarium The museum’s planetarium is located in the basement. It features a massive 26.5-meter dome screen used to recreate the night sky in astonishing detail. It was modernized in 2004 with advanced projection technology. Each show runs for about 45 minutes. Narration is primarily in Japanese, but the visual experience can still be enjoyed by non-speakers. Tickets for the planetarium are sold separately from the main exhibition admission, and they tend to sell out quickly on weekends, so early booking is recommended. ⸻ Famous Exhibits and Collections The Osaka Science Museum is known for several remarkable exhibits. Among its treasures is the Carl Zeiss II planetarium projector, an iconic piece of equipment that played a historic role in the development of astronomy education in Japan. Another notable item is the Cockcroft–Walton accelerator, an early type of particle accelerator. The museum also houses a replica of Gakutensoku, Asia’s very first humanoid robot, which moves for a few seconds every hour using compressed air. In addition, the history of science section includes antique measuring instruments, early electrical devices, and rare publications. Interactive exhibits throughout the museum cover a wide variety of topics including energy, electricity, light, sound, and motion, offering visitors a chance to learn scientific principles through direct engagement.

The interior of the museum shows an intriguing glimpse into the history and evolution of technology but leaves room for improvement. The exhibits typically showcase a mix of vintage computers, interactive installations, and multimedia displays that highlight milestones in computing, from early mechanical devices to modern-day innovations like AI and robotics. Despite its flaws, the museum succeeds in celebrating the creativity and innovation behind computing, making it an enjoyable visit for tech enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With a bit more modernization, it could easily rise to a higher rating. The museum was abit boring and lacked interesting points for above 13 to 18. so 3.5/5 but no 3/5.

This Museum is extraordinary fantastic and costs only 400 Yen. You may test a lot of experiments from producing energy yourself, to music, magnetic effects, looking how ultraviolett rays change your view of life, a robot WHO solves the Kubrick Cube ..

Exhibits were okay and interactivr for kids. However, the show was definitely not kid friendly. Just small sound made by kids is even not allowed. If your kids are into the show like our son with the planets as his current interest, he wasn't even able to enjoy the show because we kept on getting warned off every sound we make. Until we just decided to leave. It doesn't make sense to have a museum for kids then to be that strict with the noise.

This science museum is quite amazing! So many hands-on experiments, and things from our technological past! Children are quite fascinated, just as adults! We enjoyed out time spent there, almost spending 3 1/2 hours on the 3 exhibition floors! At 400 yens per adult, this is a must for all?

Science Museum that has everything explains and demonstrates, very easy to understand. They have a wide range of science as well, from the very basic knowledge to the very advanced one, but rest assured, everything was demonstraded in a very easy to understand manner. There are a lot of children (of course!), and might get a bit noisy, but that is just how children are. This place just shows that science is not boring. Highly recommend bringing your kids here. Very good experience, worth all the money.

Great neighborhood to visit for food and shops and go to the zoo and Tower. I'm not a huge fan of towers or zoos so I'd skip those unless you just love towers or zoos. We did the slide in the tower too but that wasn't that great either. We had the amazing pass so those things were all included in the pass so it was worth it for me to do those things but I wouldn't pay for those on their own.

I loved visiting Shinsekai! There are many shops and eateries in the area. There is one long and wide street with smaller streets and lanes branching out from it. I really enjoyed exploring as many as I could. There were arcade like stores to play at as well. I ended up spending more time here than I planned. The area was busy with many tourists but I thought this added to the exciting atmosphere. I would highly recommend visiting!

Absolutely loved exploring the streets around Shinkesai and Tsutenkaku Tower. This area has such a unique Osaka energy — vibrant, a bit nostalgic, and full of charm. Wandering through the narrow streets, neon signs, old-school eateries, and quirky shops felt like stepping into a different era of the city. The atmosphere is lively but authentic, not overly touristy, which made the experience even more special. Definitely a must-visit when in Osaka if you want something real, fun, and full of character. I’d go back in a heartbeat!

Compared to other street markets, this one was really small. It is also older and little bit dirty. There are few food, shoe and apparel stores. The prices of products similar to other markets. Being right next to Osaka Tower there are plenty of tourists in the area but we didn’t anyone doing much shopping. Everyone was taking photos in front of the market sign. When we went most of the stores were closed. It looked nothing like what we saw in others pictures. Better to come here at night time.

Really cool neighbourhood, preferred it over Dotonbori. Lots of great eateries, and some fun fair type games too. Round the corner from a Mega Don Quiote. Flashy lights, and the best KushiKatsu I've had. Spent about 5 hours in the area and was never bored.

Nice street in evening for walking, enjoy local food, drink, photos and 🗼 tower city view. You also can buy souvenir from here as well. Take walking around 700m to train station. Many different train line link to this street.

Osaka’s Shinsekai is the kind of place that overwhelms the senses in the best possible way. Once night falls, the entire district ignites with color—neon signs, oversized 3D shop fronts, glowing lanterns, and retro-style banners all fuse into a dazzling collage that feels unmistakably and wonderfully Osaka. Walking through these streets, you don’t just observe the energy—you’re swept into it, becoming part of a lively, ever-moving scene. Every corner bursts with personality. From the towering golden Billiken statue to the dramatic demon faces, giant skewers, pufferfish lanterns, and playful ukiyo-e murals, Shinsekai proudly displays its quirky charm. In your photos, the storefronts almost look alive, each one trying to outshine the next with brighter lights, bolder colors, and more eccentric designs. It’s theatrical, humorous, and completely unfiltered—a celebration of Osaka’s warm, boisterous spirit. The crowds contribute to the district’s irresistible atmosphere. Locals stroll casually, diners hop between kushikatsu shops, families explore with curiosity, and tourists pause constantly to capture the spectacle above them. Instead of feeling chaotic, the mix of people gives Shinsekai a genuine sense of life—busy but never cold, lively yet comfortingly familiar. Even the old-fashioned street lamps cast a soft glow that makes nighttime wandering feel safe and inviting. Restaurants, souvenir shops, snack stalls, and entertainment spots line the streets in dense clusters, many maintaining a retro Showa-era aesthetic while still feeling fresh. The 24-hour eateries, colorful facade murals, and glowing lantern tunnels that you photographed beautifully represent Shinsekai’s signature charm: bold, playful, and endlessly photogenic. And, of course, the golden Billiken—smiling quietly at the entrance of a shop—remains the unofficial guardian of the district, radiating good luck and cheeky character. As you walk toward the “OSAKA SHINSEKAI” gate at the end of the street, the bright red and blue signage frames the district like a closing chapter. People continue to gather, take photos, enjoy snacks, and wander without hurry. Beneath the noise and lights, there’s a steady rhythm—a heartbeat—that makes Shinsekai feel not like a tourist attraction, but a neighborhood that truly lives. Shinsekai is a visual feast and a vivid expression of Osaka’s identity. Here, you’ll find humor, warmth, boldness, and an authentic love for everyday life. And at night, when every light is glowing and every sign is shouting for attention, Shinsekai reveals its most captivating self—an unforgettable scene that reminds you: this is Osaka at its liveliest, its quirkiest, and its most endearing.

As one of Japan's most famed landmarks and a symbol of reunification, the construction of the Osaka Castle was built in 1583 and has undergone many restorations throughout the centuries. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the vast Osaka Castle Park, which offers breathtaking views, particularly during the cherry blossom period. While it's free to walk around the park, it is paid entry to your main castle tower. Just admiring the castle's grandeur from the ground was enough for us! For those who want to take photos of the castle without swarms of tourists milling around, we recommend taking photos from the side or beyond the moat.

Osaka Castle Park is an absolutely beautiful place to visit! The scenery is stunning from the lush greenery to the majestic view of the castle itself. The castle museum offers a fascinating look into Japan’s rich culture and history, with well-presented exhibits. The observatory deck provides a great panoramic view of the city and surrounding park. Overall, it was a truly memorable experience! A wonderful blend of nature, history, and beauty. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Osaka!

A beautiful place to walk around — spacious, clean, and full of greenery. One thing to note is that the restrooms can be a bit hard to find, so it’s good to plan ahead. Along the paths, you’ll often see students practicing sports and plenty of people jogging, which gives the park a lively and energetic atmosphere. During my visit, there was even a ramen-themed event happening, which was a fun surprise.

Nature's beauty is on display in full regalia. This park is so incredible. It has everything trees, flowers, birds singing, even the crow's cawing is not annoying. Come here in the fall and you'll see the fiery red colors of the leaves turning. The Japanese maples are absolutely stunning and you get these beautiful reflections on the water. This is world-class beauty.

Woah!!!! That’s the least I can say about this splendid masterpiece. We went at night and the castle was lit up throughout the whole night. I strongly encourage to go at night as it’ll be less crowded and less hot. There are patrols onsite for security obviously. It’s a white castle and super pretty especially at night. No tickets were bought to enjoy this beauty.

Plan ahead as this place can get really busy. You need to buy a ticket to enter the castle, but the outside view and grounds are amazing. There is a public bus to get back to the entry gate/car park for about $3 AUD if you have exhausted yourself walking around the entire site. It will take some time to see it all and I suggest you set aside a couple of hours to get the best out of your visit.

Cost a bit of money each to visit, but it was well worth the cost. There are several floors of interesting artefacts, videos and informative displays. The view from the top isn't bad either. If you are looking for the touristy stamp, it's down on the bottom floor of the main castle. There is a lift that you can choose to go up in. However, they don't like you using it to come down, unless you are injured or have a disability.

We came to Shitennoji to see all the temples in the area. It is somewhat from the train station, we had to walk a bit during hot summer day. There’s a small entrance fee to get the tickets to enter. The premise has some really huge temples. They look amazing. Lots of tourists visit this spot for its spiritual values. It takes about half an hour to an hour to explore the area. Outside of the temple premises there are few more things to explore like stone statues, tombs, and prayer rooms.

Stepping into Shitennō-ji Temple in the early morning felt like entering a sanctuary of peace and history. The vermilion temple gates glowed softly under the morning light, while the imposing guardians stood firmly by the entrance, radiating both strength and serenity. Walking along the stone paths, we could hear nothing but the gentle breeze and the occasional birdsong—an atmosphere of true tranquility. As Japan’s oldest Buddhist temple, founded by Prince Shōtoku, Shitennō-ji remains a cultural and spiritual landmark in Osaka. Unlike the bustling city just outside its walls, the temple grounds offer a timeless stillness that encourages reflection and calm. For the two of us, this morning visit was more than sightseeing; it was a quiet retreat for the soul. If you are visiting Osaka, set aside a morning to wander through Shitennō-ji—you’ll discover a rare sense of harmony and a deep connection to history.

Beautiful temple, but some explanation in English could be provided. Also, you need to pay to enter (500 yen per adult), and the temple closes at 16:00 (they actually started closing everything down earlier today). The tower (?) was closed, don’t know if you can go inside normally. You can enter the temple and no one asked anyone to remove shoes or to wear something to cover their legs (I was wearing shorts and so were many other tourists). Inside the temple, no photos are allowed, but it’s definitely worth a visit; it’s very pretty and well kept. Outside, quite a big street market selling mainly books but also artwork, decorative items and souvenirs.

Shitenno-ji Temple is a tranquil space located towards the centre of Osaka. The outer parts and surrounding grounds of the temple are free to visit. The whole area was immaculately clean. I ended up spending more time here than I intended. I would recommended visiting.

Beautiful Buddhist temple in Osaka. It is the or one of the oldest ones around. There is a small 500 yen fee to get inside to see the main grounds and inside of the pagoda and temple. Both times I have visited the shrine there has also been a flea market on the outer side of the main grounds which has been fun to explore!

I came here for a quick little trip for sightseeing. This temple is beautiful. You do have to pay entrance fee of 500 yen. You can go inside of the temple to view all the religious and cultural history. You can feel the spiritual energy as soon as you walk in

Shitennō-ji is a beautiful temple with a wonderful atmosphere. On the day we visited, there was also a flea market, which made the experience even more special – very lively, friendly, and inviting. Entrance was even free that day. Overall, a great Buddhist temple worth visiting!

The Osaka City Central Public Hall, built in 1918, is a symbolic landmark in the Nakanoshima neighborhood, which is lined with retro historical buildings, and is still an active public facility used for cultural, artistic, and social activities. The building was built by Einosuke Iwamoto, a stockbroker in Kitahama, who donated his personal fortune to the city of Osaka in order to provide "a place that everyone can use. Each room, from the stained glass windows and chandeliers to the staircases and doors, is a masterpiece of the technology of the time.

Well, for better or worse, I like this type of red brick building and the architectural style. I find it easy on the eye. Centrally located and easy to get to, with plenty to do around it. Would be nice if at least part of it could be open year round for visitors to see the inside, perhaps just a few restored rooms to give an idea of the interior around the period of construction.

Beautifully restored! The building elements were so clean and crisp, unmistakably Japanese!

Beautiful building with rich history. Take your time to explore the interior and don't miss the permanent exhibition on the ground floor. Oh, there's also a beautiful rose garden 15 mins walk away from the Public Hall.

A historical landmark and architectural masterpiece, the Osaka City Central Public Hall gently bears witness to Osaka's rich past. This magnificent structure, which is situated in Nakanoshima, draws tourists with its breathtaking Western-style architecture and cultural value. It radiates elegance and majesty. The Central Public Hall's elaborate façade, arched windows, and fine craftsmanship instantly draw your attention and are reminiscent of early 20th-century European architecture. The building stands out among the city's architectural landscapes thanks to its distinctive red-brick facade, exquisite domes, and detailed ornamentation. Entering, one is taken back in time to a more affluent and sophisticated period. The opulent interior design, with its elaborate woodwork, stained glass windows, and grand staircases, emanates a classic elegance. The Main Hall makes one feel nostalgic for a bygone age with its lavish chandeliers and well-kept decor. The Central Public Hall is a cultural center that hosts a range of events, concerts, and exhibitions that honor local music, art, and culture in addition to its architectural beauty. Its importance as a community hub is further highlighted by its use as a venue for both public and private events. The Central Public Hall, which is bordered by the lovely Dojima River and Nakanoshima Park, provides a calm atmosphere in the middle of the city's bustle, making it the perfect place for leisurely walks and quiet moments of reflection. A trip through history and culture awaits visitors to the Osaka City Central Public Hall, offering more than just an architectural tour. This famous monument, which is still a beloved and significant part of Osaka's present, gives a glimpse into the city's past for those who are interested in architecture, history, or just a peaceful getaway.

This is in the Nakanoshima island. I visited this year along with Mudosuji Illumination. Trees are beautifully decorated with various colours of lights to Nakanoshima. It may be long to walk from Umeda to Nakanoshima, but once you do you may enjoy the tremendous and beautifull night city/street view on both sides and can finish with kinds of events there in Nakanoshima with some lights shows.

It’s also beautiful at night.

​Namba Yasaka Shrine is an absolute must-visit landmark known for its strikingly dramatic architecture and unique atmosphere. While the massive lion stage is the main attraction, the rest of the shrine grounds are compact and well-maintained, offering a brief, pleasant cultural break. It’s located conveniently close to Namba’s bustling center, making it an easy addition to any Osaka itinerary. The best way to enjoy the tranquility and fully appreciate the architecture is to visit early in the morning. This is the key recommendation, as the shrine can get very crowded later in the day. Arriving early ensures you can take clear photographs of the lion head and experience the quiet spiritual atmosphere before the crowds descend.

This is a small but beautiful temple in Namba Osaka. The big lion head is very cool and gives a different vibe compared to other temples. Even though it's a very nice temple, I wouldn't recommend taking a detour just to see it. Visiting the whole thing took us probably 15 minutes tops and it was overcrowded. If you wish to pray at a shrine in Japan, you should definitely go somewhere.

Osaka Namba Yasaka Shrine is a unique and fascinating Shinto shrine located near Namba Station. Its most famous feature is the giant lion-shaped stage (the “Shishiden”), which symbolizes protection against evil and the power to bring success and good fortune. The design is impressive and makes a great photo spot. Although it’s not a large shrine, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming, offering a nice break from the busy city streets. A must-visit hidden gem in Osaka!

The shrine is best known for its giant lion head stage (獅子殿, shishiden) — a massive structure about 12 meters tall and 11 meters wide. It’s believed that the lion’s mouth swallows evil spirits and brings good luck, success, and protection to visitors. Despite being in bustling Namba, the shrine has a calm, spiritual atmosphere. It’s a great spot for photos, peaceful reflection, or a quick cultural stop while exploring Osaka.

Namba Yasaka Jinja is one of the most striking and memorable shrines in Japan. The moment you step onto the grounds, the massive lion-head stage takes your breath away — it’s bold, unique, and unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else. The atmosphere is uplifting and full of character, making the shrine feel both powerful and welcoming. It’s a place that instantly grabs your attention and leaves a lasting impression. A true hidden gem in Osaka and an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring the city.

I visited Namba Yasaka Jinja alone, and it turned out to be one of the most special moments of my trip to Osaka. The giant lion head immediately caught my attention. Standing in front of it, I felt small but strangely calm, as if all the city’s chaos outside had suddenly gone quiet. What I loved most was the contrast: right in the middle of lively Namba, you step into this pocket of silence and strength. Being there on my own made it even more meaningful, I could take my time, listen to the soft sounds of the wind, and just be. The shrine isn’t large, but it has a powerful presence. Locals come and go quietly, some to pray, some just to pass through.

A hidden gem in the middle of Osaka! 🦁✨ Namba Yasaka Shrine is famous for its huge lion head stage — it looks amazing in photos and feels unique compared to other shrines in Japan. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful even though it’s close to busy Namba area. It’s a great spot to visit for a short break, take some memorable pictures, and feel a bit of traditional Japan in the city. Entrance is free and it’s easy to reach on foot from Namba Station.

Very peaceful and relaxing park to just slow down and enjoy the moment. Multiple groups come here to hang out, play soccer, eat, and enjoy nature. The views are nice, the lawn is well maintained and there are multiple food options nearby. Honestly a great park.

Came here in July recently. At first entered the Park at the south end near the Tennoji station to visit Keitakuen Garden. Then left as there wasn't much else but ended up re-entering the park at the north end after walking along the road. There is also a pond here with some water lilies. Good for a stroll if have time to spare.

It's a big and beautiful park. The Japanese garden turns out to be not free, so as some other facilities like museum and zoo, but other parts of the park is free and relaxing

Beautiful park in heart of Osaka with plenty of cherry trees waiting to fully bloom in the next couple days. It is adjacent to a zoo. Easy get in by using public transportation (bus, JR trains). There is a scenic spot where you can take a nice photo of Tsutenkaku tower.

You know what pairs shockingly well with koi ponds and lotus flowers? Pro wrestling. We rolled into this park expecting a post-sushi stroll and maybe a few turtles. What we got was WWE: Osaka Edition under blazing sun and white tents. Tennoji Park, as a green space, is already doing the most—it’s got a wide central promenade, fountains doing their best impression of Versailles, turtles floating with the chill of retirees, and that beautiful red bridge that makes every photo look like a Studio Ghibli still. But Japan, being Japan, decided that wasn’t enough. Cue: a full-blown weekend festival, complete with curry booths, EU sausages, ice cream trucks, and a man in Lycra getting body-slammed ten feet from a fountain. The entire event looked like someone spun a “What kind of party should we throw?” wheel and it landed on Yes. The food tents were no joke—lining up with military-grade tape lanes, serving dishes that ranged from fiery Thai basil chicken to something labeled “Spicy Mongolia Power” (which felt like a dare and tasted like regret). Everything was good, reasonably priced, and freshly cooked by someone sweating bullets in a 35°C heatwave, bless them. Locals gathered under shade tents with fans, umbrellas, and hydration plans. Kids posed with the big OSAKA sign like they were getting ready to launch their YouTube travel channel. And somehow, it all just worked. Tennoji Park is a gem on any day. But on a random summer weekend? It turns into a wild fusion of nature walk, street food heaven, and Raw is War. Come for the peaceful koi pond. Stay for the suplexes and soft serve.

What a beautiful, more formal, Japanese park. We sat watching the herons in the lake from under a shelter and wandered around the park. Just beautiful.

absolutely amazing park and one of if not the best ive been to, the park is very beautiful and feels very open especially in april when the cherry blossoms bloom, also id recommend going here around 4-6pm so you can get the amazing sunset view and id also say to bring a tarp to picnic in tenshiba

If you're seeking an authentic slice of Osaka life, look no further than Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street. Stretching over 2.5 kilometers, it's Japan's longest covered shopping arcade and a haven for both locals and savvy travelers. Unlike the flashy tourist hubs of Namba or Shinsaibashi, Tenjinbashi-suji offers a genuine, unpolished charm. The arcade is lined with over 600 shops, ranging from traditional tea houses and second-hand bookstores to modern fashion boutiques and quirky specialty stores. It's a delightful maze where you can stumble upon hidden gems like rubber stamp shops and acupuncture clinics. Food lovers will be in paradise here. From crispy croquettes at Nakamuraya to savory kushikatsu and sweet taiyaki, the street is a culinary adventure. Many eateries offer discounts in the evening, making it a budget-friendly option for dinner. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with shopkeepers greeting you warmly and locals going about their daily routines. It's a place where you can experience the true essence of Osaka without the overwhelming crowds. Whether you're hunting for unique souvenirs, indulging in street food, or simply soaking in the local culture, Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street is a must-visit destination in Osaka.

This is such a amazing spot for food and shopping. It’s probably a mile long, we kept walking over an hour, still we couldn’t get close to end of the block. The best part is there’s roof, feels so much better to walk during hot summer weather. There are hundreds of shops here, selling all sorts of products like apparels, shoes, accessories, leather goods, food and snacks, and many more. We found a really good leather shoe shop called Recipe. It had excellent quality leather pairs. We bought a pair from here for about ¥11000. The store gave us the tax refund on the spot. In another store we bought fur scarf. We also found an incredible Japanese curry restaurant for lunch. Overall we had a delightful touristy time here with food and shopping. We walked into several different stores to check out Japanese goods. A must visit location for anyone visiting Osaka.

This shopping street is so long and stretches on for blocks. It is covered so I feel quite comfortable walking inside here. We started early, right after breakfast and many if the shops were just about to open for business. You can find a lot of variety here from shops selling souvenirs to jewellery, from clothese to toys as well as restaurants to cafes. Occasionally, you will need to exit the block and cross the street to enter a new block. The streets are kept very clean and public restrooms are available.

This shopping strip is located by Museum of Housing and Living. After you exit the main door, it’s to the left. I love this kind of shopping area in Japan. I feel they have it everywhere and it extends so far out. I could never finish all the stores. The cover on the top really makes different. I can still enjoy shopping in hot days and raining days. Many restaurants, drug/cosmetic stores, clothes and shoes along the strip. Pretty reasonable price. Everyone is so nice. No crazy people harass you or haggle you along the way. Very clean. Great place for local shopping.

If you want to visit a shopping street with traditional Japanese shops offering fair priced products, this the a worth going place. Recommended 👍

The longest shopping arcade in Japan! It's honestly a bit tired, but that's part of the fun. Interesting selection of shops. Huge bonus that is covered from heat and sun.

Shops for days. Quantity is high, nice to see but I didn't buy anything. That could be because I wasn't looking for anything in particular. They definitely had lots of stuff.

Beautiful museum just right across Osaka Castle. If you're into history, this museum will make you happy. There are multiple floors to visit each covering different era of Osaka history.

Diving myself into rich history of osaka and vicinity are, I spent about a couple of hours to learn and enjoy the exhibiyion in this place. It’s so extensive but entertaining without exhaustion, the journey begins with buying tge reasonable price ticket on 1F then proceed to top 10th floor, story of very first osaka, nanniwa palace , then step down floor by floor , be not missed !! The stunning view of osaka castle complex .

We stopped by on our way to the Osaka castle park. A good experience. A great place to learn more about the rich history of Osaka and to get a bit of rest and cool down too (especially if you go during the hottest months).

Well worth a visit. Takes you through the history of Osaka from prehistoric times. Very impressive life size models, original artifacts and miniature townscapes are spread over 3 floors. Very good information provided in English. As you move between floors you get a fantastic view of the castle & moat. Part way through you can have a break and try some archaeology based puzzles. Harder than you think.

Nicely curated museum just beside Osaka Castle. As soon as we got off the train, the NHK Building was there and we decided to check out the museum first before exploring the castle. We learned a lot about Osaka - its history and how it became the city it is today. The regular museum exhibit starts at the 10th floor, each floor showcases Osaka's history from geological formations, to the different parts of history - shogunate, industrial transformation etc. While going down to the other floors, you can see the beautiful views of the city facing the port area and a great view of the Osaka Castle. We spent about 2.5hrs here going through every display and reading most of the descriptions. There's an area for kids (and adults too) where they can play with puzzles, look at microscopes, play on a 90s model PC, dig some fossils and more.

Absolutely wonderful Museum. Beautiful service, you begin on the 10th floor with a great view of Osaka Castle, and as you go to lower levels the display becomes more current. If you are in Osaka this is a must to get some insight on the history of this magnificent city.

Turns out I had visited before Covid and the exhibits are generally same. Great experience for first timers. Love the miniatures ! @doris.is.me on Instagram IG TikTok TT Lemon8

Like a secret passage. This area is full of passages and all of them are full of nice restaurants. A magical place that is a must visit every time you come to Osaka.

This is one of the most historical temples in Japan. Located right in the centre of Osaka it is worth the visit to this temple. I would highly recommend you visit this temple while in Osaka. There is no entrance fee.

Located in the famous,and crowded Dotonbori area, this alleyway offer a serene atmosphere especially at night time. The front gate to the alleyway is really beautiful indeed. Inside not only you got to see an alleyway decorated with yellow light and lantern, you can also enjoy meals from various restaurants.

Crowded as alays, but special vibe of tons of people mostly tourists walking around enjoying food and restaurants front decor

Foreigner menu, foreigner price. Food: The skewers lacked variety & the batter was too hard instead of being crispy & tender as expected. Service: The staff needs to be more proactive in clearing used plates before serving fresh ones & refilling tea without being asked. Atmosphere: The space is very small & cramped, making it uncomfortable. Once seated, it’s difficult to exit without disturbing other guests or having them move their chairs.

20/04/24 Sat night we were there as the last guests around 19:30 something, didn't make the reservation but just walk-in. With my rusty Japanese I asked if possible to have dinner of two, very friendly owner clean up the counter and welcome us. We had 10 dishes as we thought should be enough quantity of food. Even everything dishes are deep fried. I can still taste the flavor of the ingredients! Pity we didn't find it earlier, or we could try another menu that contains more dishes. In the end we had a little chat with the owner, as we're the last guests. Very nice experience and warm hospitality I will not forget. ありがとうございます!!

This was an incredible experience. I have been to 60 countries and many of the "Top 50" restaurants in the world and this was an experience that was better than many of those restaurants. I would recommend they add truffle salt to the table, and more fresh wasabi ... Other than that pure delight and joy and perfection.

Very traditional, open, and interesting! Please make sure that you put your offering before you light up the incense and candle. And also the water by the shrine used to be put onto them not for the hands.

Before leaving the area, we stopped by Hōzen-ji Temple, a small but historic Buddhist temple tucked away in the middle of Dotonbori. Dating back to 1637, it’s famous for its moss-covered statue of Fudō Myō-ō, a guardian deity said to grant wishes. Visitors pour water over the statue when they pray, which is why it’s completely coated in green moss. The narrow alley leading to the temple, Hōzenji Yokocho, felt worlds away from the busy streets nearby—quiet, atmospheric, and lined with lanterns. I got a goshuin here too, a nice little memento from such an unexpected hidden gem in the middle of the city.

Hōzen-ji is a small yet profoundly calming sanctuary—an intimate spiritual corner quietly preserved in the heart of Osaka’s vibrant streets. Despite being surrounded by the energetic pace of Namba and Dōtonbori, the moment you step onto its stone pathway, the world seems to soften. The worn stone tiles, the wooden structures, and the rows of lanterns create a scene that feels timeless, intimate, and gently illuminated. The temple may be compact, but its atmosphere is rich with layers of tradition. Visitors pause before the incense burner, hands clasped, as thin streams of smoke rise softly into the cool air—mingling with the subtle scent of wood and the faint moisture of the day. Whether it’s travelers in kimono, nearby residents, or wandering tourists, everyone naturally slows down here, offering a quiet prayer or simply enjoying a brief moment of reflection. What stands out the most is how time feels a beat slower within these grounds. Outside are tall buildings, cables, and modern city textures; inside, the curved tiled roofs, wooden pillars, and clusters of lanterns preserve an older rhythm—gentle, enduring, and deeply resonant. The charm of Hōzen-ji doesn’t lie in grandeur, but in its ability to create genuine stillness in the center of a bustling city. It’s a place where Osaka’s soul reveals another side: not just lively and dynamic, but also warm, contemplative, and steeped in quiet history. Whether you come for a short pause during your stroll or specifically to offer incense and make a wish, Hōzen-ji welcomes you with sincerity. It is one of Namba’s most memorable hidden sanctuaries—small in size, yet immense in the peacefulness it brings.

A serene shrine tucked away in Dontonbori, though you’d never think it was with how peaceful this place is. It’s not a very big shrine, but it’s certainly gorgeous. In the center of the shrine is a moss-covered statue that guests can splash water on - doing so is said to give good luck.

Quiet and quaint place behind the bustling Dotonbori. The moss statue stands there, in a mystical atmosphere during night time when the lanterns are lit up. Worthy of the detour while you are in Dotonbori

Beautiful. It was a misty autumn day when I went. I walked 1hr there from Minoh falls and then caught the bus back down to Hankyu Minoh Station.

A really pretty shrine nestled inbetween large buildings near Dotonbori. There are also cute cats who make this area their home so keep an eye out for them.

Amazing panoramic view of the city. We arrived one hour before sunset and there was no line. The west facing area gets pretty crowded while the sun sets and the ac wasn’t working so it was hot. While we were exiting we saw a long line to enter so keep in mind it might be busier at night.

Come for the views. There’s a café one level below the paid observatory where you can sit with a drink and enjoy the scenery. The café accepts card and cash. That same level has a convenience store for quick bites. Below the café is an open-air garden. The Observatory ticket is optional if you just want great views.

There are many different ways to enjoy this place. There is the Heliport Tour, TV Binoculars, Sky Gardeb 300, Edge the Harukas and Harukas VR Bungee Jumping. But my favorite was the Observatory Gallery which shows the indoor gallery constructed of glass all around from the floor to the ceiling. I also like the Sky Gardeb with an open roof where you can feel the air. There are also some cafes and restaurants that you can try which is so cool cause it has a nice panoramic view

Went for a night view and it did not disappointe at all. 3 whole floor of great views, you can never say its too crowded. If I knew, I would have come for sunset, have dinner there to enjoy the night view. Totally worth it !

-1* coz ticket is pricey 2000¥ adult price as compared to museums n zoos @400-600¥. There's not much educational value up here tbh. It's just for d hype. As with all other observatory spots in big cities, d view is alw spectacular but that's abt it. Chanced upon a Gundam exhibition but I m not a fan of Gundam. There r activities to engage d kids but d atmosphere is more "adult-like". **Black Jack exhibition is next.** I wld say d highlight is d lift. That's d experience I really enjoy;) Staff r v procedural - 赶鸭子-style which I didn't enjoy.

Breathtaking 360 view of Osaka. Got our tickets for free but I wouldn't mind paying for this, Osaka is absolutely stunning at night. The place is also directly accessible from the JR Tennoji station and lots of food options inside and near the area.

Love this place. Conveniently located next to a great park. A mall at the lower levels . On the higher levels you have a museum and observatory. Very calm little outdoor area from where you have an amazing view over Osaka . Than there is this perfect little cafe. A perfect cappuccino and matcha latte that I enjoyed at a table next to the window from where a scenic view just add to the relaxing and dreamy experience.

This is a very nice temple to visit while in Osaka. It is about 15 minutes walk from Namaba Station. I would highly recommend you visit this temple when in Osaka. There is no entry fee. You can also obtain a Goshuin stamp here for 500 yen. It is highly recommended to obtain the Goshuin stamp while visiting each temple.

🎐Imamiya Ebisu Shrine · Osaka⛩️ 🎋 🎏Where Good Fortune Begins｜A Local Shrine for Prosperity & Peace Just a short walk from Namba and Shinsekai, Imamiya Ebisu Shrine is a beloved Osaka spot known for bringing luck in business and life. Locals call the deity here “Ebessan,” the smiling god of prosperity. Pass through the stone torii gate and you’ll find two bronze guardian lions watching over the shrine. The wooden main hall stands quietly, surrounded by colorful prayer charms and bright red lanterns — a perfect blend of serenity and joy. This is where Osaka’s merchants come to pray for good fortune, especially during the Toka Ebisu Festival every January, when the entire area fills with chants, laughter, and good wishes. 🏯🧧 Don’t forget to pick up a Fukuzasa bamboo charm or a golden Tai fish amulet — symbols of abundance and success. Visit early in the morning for calm reflections, or pair your visit with a stroll to nearby Tsutenkaku Tower and Shinsekai for a full Osaka experience.

I’m searching on Google maps for New year pray for luck in 2023 and I found the temple that peaceful among people. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

Imamiya Ebisu Shrine is one of those rare places in Osaka where the rhythm of the city gently dissolves the moment you step inside. The gravel crunches lightly underfoot, stone lanterns cast soft shadows, and the wooden shrine buildings stand quietly against a backdrop of modern high-rises — creating a beautifully unique contrast of tradition and urban life. In the warm daylight, the engraved stone pillar bearing the shrine’s name feels especially dignified, as if inviting visitors into a realm of blessings, prosperity, and calm. What stands out most is the shrine’s understated elegance. The main hall, built in warm timber and topped with a soft green copper roof, reflects the sunlight in a way that feels both serene and timeless. There is no excess decoration here — only a pure, well-balanced simplicity that slows your pace and lets you breathe in the quiet scent of wood and open air. The good-luck charm you purchased perfectly embodies the spirit of Imamiya Ebisu. Known as the patron deity of business, trade, and prosperity, “Ebisu-san” is celebrated throughout Osaka, and this golden omamori carries that symbolism beautifully. With bamboo, treasure motifs, and small talismans illustrated across its surface, it feels like holding a little piece of fortune — a gentle blessing you can carry throughout your journey. Across the grounds, visitors can be seen praying, browsing the omamori shop, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. The surrounding buildings are modest and clean, giving the entire space a warm, approachable feeling. Whether it’s your first visit or a familiar stop, the shrine welcomes you with an effortless sense of comfort. Imamiya Ebisu Shrine may not rely on grandeur or spectacle, but its quiet charm, cultural depth, and peaceful ambiance make it unforgettable. It offers a moment of stillness within the lively city — a perfect place to invite good fortune and to let your Osaka travels unfold with a renewed sense of positivity.

I was there during the Toka Ebisu Festival (Jan. 9th-11th). There was hundreds of fun fair stands for a couple kilometers along the shrine. In the shrine grounds themselves, the bamboo branch ceremony was very interesting to witness. I think it goes on all night too. I had an amazing time, couldn't recommend it more.

Visit Toka ebisu. I went around 18:00 and I thought it was full but actually it was a best hours. We didn’t wait for long time I will say it was smooth. But after 19:00 seems pack. So there was free Fuku sasa(bamboos) and you need to but charm for ¥1500. It’s better you study abut Toka ebisu befor you visit. So you will understand about each things. And lot street food!! Yummmm! Smells good so I didn’t know what should I try! Haha

This shrine is very spacious, it wasn't crowded during my time of visit(weekday afternoon). Would recommend this time if you wish to go when there is less crowd. The cartoon girl at the gate is a personification of mouse, as mouse is the zodiac of the year 2020, by lunar/Chinese calendar.

The old library which is fairly restricted as a library but has some interesting architecture and interior decoration.

The library isn’t very big, but it has a strong sense of history — a great place for taking photos.

Great place to visit

Quaint

It is always a pleasure to come to this Library! Every time I find a comfortable place, where I can isolate and read my favorite fantasy books for hours.

Beautiful exterior. Photography of the interior is allowed only in the lobby and rotunda.

Public library in this historical building. I only come here to pick up my reserved books. Open late till 8pm. But closed on Sundays :(

this place is really not bad at night. there was various different spots of light such that you wouldn't feel bored, it ranges from colourful trees to some kind of eggs to a small light show in the forest. I feel like the Tokyo one is maybe better tho.. but this is still something decent. the place was relatively big, I would recommend to go to this place with a group of friends. I would say that this place is very good for dates and pictures! it is a 10 minute walk away from the station too, so it's convenient. there was also relaxing music playing which fits the ambience.

Went to TL Botanical around 7pm on a warm November evening. I will start this review by saying that this is my first TeamLabs experience, so I'm very much treating it on its own merits. You're essentially doing a night time walking tour of a park with illuminated sculpture installations and music/sound. So set expectations accordingly. It takes around an hour to hour and a half to get all the way round the handful of exhibits, and is generally a pleasant experience with some nicely thought out installations. Crowds were minimal, so I'd say the winter on a weekday is a good time to go. Zero queuing and ample space to see and photograph the installations. At time of writing, it's priced fairly reasonably for what it is, just over £10. Compared to the cost of attractions in the UK I feel like this represents fairly decent value, though possibly feels slightly expensive in the context of Japan overall as most attractions are very cheap really. My only real criticism is that it's very, very easy to trip over things as your night vision is almost non existent from continuous viewing of lit up objects, and the illumination around the paths is kept to the absolute bare minimum - so watch your step. If you're keen on night time photography you'll be able to get some great shots, I feel like this absolutely adds some value if you're into taking photos. Go in with an open mind and reasonable expectations, and you should have a nice hour or two.

The TeamLab Botanical Garden in Osaka is absolutely stunning. Visiting at night feels like stepping into a dream — the combination of art, light, and nature is unforgettable. One highlight for me was the installation “Pillars that Dance with the Wind.” Watching these illuminated columns gently sway and change with the breeze was magical. It felt as if the garden itself was alive and interacting with the visitors. The whole garden is beautifully curated, blending digital art seamlessly with natural landscapes. Every path reveals a new surprise, and the atmosphere is both peaceful and inspiring. If you’re in Osaka, this is a must-see — it’s not just an exhibition, it’s an experience that stays with you.

Quite nice for a relaxing evening experience, especially not when many other people are inside. Lights changing colors and ambient music all around, great for memorable photos. Got tickets the day before, you get to enter any time it's open (18 to 20:30), there was almost no people at the ticket holder line so didn't have to wait. Free app provides a map and description of the light-up instalations. There's around 8 slightly themed areas, most of these react to people passing through or interacting, so the experience is somewhat unique to everyone. I walked very slowly and took a bunch of photos everywhere, and it took me just over 1.5 hours; if you just walk through it might take 15-20 minutes or less. Overall, liked the concept a lot, but going in blind I expected there to be more different stuff, the journey through felt rather short.

I definitely recommend this exhibition for people who enjoy interactive art! The fact that it is held in a park, at night… with leaves rustling, sand crunching underneath your feet, and soft music playing… It's just magical and relaxing. Perfect to end the day! It is also quite affordable for the kind of experience you're getting, so I would definitely encourage anyone who needs a little but of a breather from the hustle and bustle of Osaka’s tourist crowds :)

A great way to spend an evening in Osaka. Our group of four had the opportunity to be part of a free trial tour for the first 1/2 hour. The tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly and enthusiastic. She was able to provide us with information about the installations that we would not have known otherwise. The outdoor immersive experience was fun and one of the highlights of our stay in Osaka.

I have been in teamlab borderless, planets and garden, but this is the best one. Since it is a open space, you wont have the feeling it is too crowded. Since it is in a park, it has places to sit and rest a little bit by nature and silence. Since it is at night and has a wide range of time entry, you wont have to worry too much to be on time. It is simply the best experience. I think all teamlabs were projected to make us feel like teamlab garden does. To be at peace and to walk freely, enjoying the greatness of art. Highly recommend to everyone that is searching for a artsy experience, something different and amazing. All artworks were stunning.

This shrine area is quite unique as it feels more like walking through an interactive theme park than a sacred place! There's a map outlining the path, where you'll find a cave with sound effects, and a line of statues among other interesting features. They have a Shrine office that gives goshuin stamps too. It's a small area, but not busy at all when you visit on weekdays. It's worth visiting Senko-ji if you're in the area. You won't regret it!

Interesting place. For the full experience Instruction : go to the receptionist counter and say you want to buy a ticket for "Jigoku", just say Jigoku ticket please And she will give a paper with English instruction on it. If you know Japanese, there's alot of stuff not written in the paper so that's a bonus.

Small but interesting temple out in the market area surrounding Osaka.

Very interesting temple. There is also a little Showa era museum with old toys and appliances.

Great temple with lots of opportunities for interaction. A very quiet place. There wasn't much going on during our visit either. The owner also showed us the Buddah statue.

Small and unique temple along shopping street. Here is a tiny free theme park. The place shows images of Buddhist hell and the master Yama. But you might be saved by short pilgrimage in the temple. Please enjoy the hell, you guys!

Amazing experience. It offers so many discoveries to be made. Definitely pay a visit to the subterranean mandala while you're there.

This is a super popular tourist destination in Osaka. The entrance is about 5 minutes walk from the station. We had to wait about 10 minutes to get to the observation deck. The floor was spacious. It had lots of details of the construction and architecture of the building. It appeared to be an engineering marvel of connecting 3 buildings together. They also had some small shops and photo spots. It had wonderful view of Osaka skyline. From the indoor deck, there’s escalator to the outdoor open deck viewing area. It’s a round walkway that has clear view of all four directions of Osaka. It took us around an hour fully explore the observatory.

The view from the tower is magnificent, especially at night. On the upper deck, please ensure all hats and loose items are secured, as there can be a reasonable amount of wind. No food or drinks are allowed either. The upper deck also has blacklights installed, which let colours shine, such as the dinosaur in the attached picture and especially the starscape on the walking path. To save time, please purchase tickets in advance. The trip is well worth it and can be easily reached via Umeda station.

I bought two tickets from Trip! Because there was a buy one get one free promotion, it was really cheap! So I highly recommend that you order online. It was really beautiful at night! I went there at the end of May, and it was still quite cold outside! You can wear white! You will find that your clothes will have a fluorescent effect at night

Kuchu Teien Observatory, which is the official name for the rooftop observatory of the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, Japan. The Kuchu Teien Observatory This is the main attraction, and it offers a 360-degree, open-air view of Osaka from 173 meters (568 feet) above the ground. The Open-Air Deck: Unlike many enclosed observatories, this one is mostly open to the elements. You can feel the wind and get an unobstructed, spectacular view of the entire city. It's especially famous for its sunset and night views when the city lights up. I would recommend visiting for the sunset or the night view, as the daytime scenery is less impressive

The Kuchu Teien Observatory is one of the best spots to enjoy panoramic views of Osaka. The 360° open-air deck offers breathtaking views of the skyline, especially during sunset and when the city lights sparkle at night. What makes the experience even more magical is the glowing star and planets–themed floor on the observatory deck, creating a dreamy atmosphere as you take in the view. A beautifully designed space and a must-visit for anyone who loves cityscapes and memorable experiences.

I went here while I was in Osaka and really enjoyed it, the views are great and the design is super cool, especially the escalators that have 360 views that go up and down. This is probably a must see if you’re ever in Osaka, and I would recommend going at night to get the best experience. Only downside is there was a bit of a line, and it’s probably because of all the tourism in Japan but I still really enjoyed it. The gift shop at the top is cool but was too pricy so we skipped it.

I had an amazing experience there. The view from the observatory is stunning. You can have 360° view of Osaka. It's located on the top floor. The entrance is in the 3rd floor. You take a lift to the 35th floor where you will buy a ticket to enter. The ticket is 2000Y per person. The lift is quite scary as you could how high it is.

A majestic theatre in the midst of the hustle and bustle of prime tourist territory. The building itself is worth a visit, whether or not one has time to see anything being performed. Plenty to choose from if one has the time. A change of pace from the commercial chaos outside and all around. Nice just to look at. Worth observing and taking in.

Really interesting from a cultural appreciation point of view, but overall I probably wouldn't recommend if you don't have any Japanese listening ability as no English support is provided beyond brief plot summaries. Theater itself is beautiful and the acoustics are impeccable. Really easy to hear all of the dialogue and music. It's also somewhat warm and apparently it's normal for people to fall asleep during the show, as I spotted multiple audience members who had. Tickets were 4000 yen a person for the upper deck. Evening show was split into three acts - a play, a dance, and another play. We only stayed for the first two acts. It's unfortunate but some of the dance is choreographed in a way that you literally just cannot see some of it if you sit in the upper deck, which annoyed me. I hope that's not the case for other dances they put on here. I think I would be more inclined to recommend people to go if they sold the acts separately for maybe 2000 yen a piece. The first play was actually very good, even with just my very elementary Japanese listening abilities.

The kabuki performance was absolutely worth watching—truly a memorable and moving experience. The ticket price was very reasonable considering the quality and richness of the show. While wearing the English audio guide can be a bit distracting at times, it adds great value by explaining the unique details and cultural context, which made the performance even more touching. Just a friendly tip: for shows running from May 14 to May 25, the stage is T-shaped, so keep that in mind when selecting your seat.

great show！ feel tradition feel japan

I saw a full kabuki show here and had a good time. I don't know very much Japanese, but I still had fun seeing a kabuki show. I love theater and it was a bit slow and my eyes were dropping at points, but worth checking out. Very other worldly, and different from western plays. Worth it if you have a flair for theater. I would recommend seeing the last 2 part act if you are coming the story is less rushed and much easier to follow if you don't know Japanese. Be warned this theater doesn't have computer translators to English only Japanese, and they sell a book with the lines in English for 1800 yen, but as a backpacker I couldn't fit it in my bag so I didn't get it.

Kabuki was amazing. Very strict rules tho. Bring ur own food for the break and book the tickets on the original Japanese website with translator to not get ripped off

初めての歌舞伎はすごく素晴らしかったです。 I recommend watching a show or two if you have a chance, I really enjoyed their Journey to the West performance.

If you got Osaka Amazing Pass, the entrance would be free. Just show the QR code and they will give you an ticket access. The museum is located on the 8th floor. Its very organize flow in the museum. You will have nostalgic feel of going back in time during the edo period of how the people live that time. There is a stortly telling presentation which is great to listen. Also, there is rental kimono if you want that more historical vibe of the place for reasonable price. Visit this Museum if you like historical stuff and edo era Japan.

Small museum, whose biggest attraction is a set of miniatures depicting scenes from different centuries and a reproduction of an Edo period district of Osaka, with shops, houses and public baths. It's not huge, but there is so much care and love for details. I was lucky enough to strike up a chat with one of the guides, an older gentleman who spent an hour of his time leading me through the streets and inside the buildings, explaining in a great English the history of the city, the life at the time and showing me so many hidden secrets that I would have 100% missed if I visited alone. What a fantastic experience, I am so glad I visited, had a lot of fun. Thank you!

A fun indoor experience for the whole family. This is my second time to this Museum and I love going mostly for the indoor outdoor experience. For a small fee you can wear you caught up and walk around the indoor City in the museum for 30 minutes. The staff is incredibly helpful and helps you wear the Yukata. I love how the ceiling shows all the different times of the day when you're walking around the indoor city.

A nice little museum that documents evolution of housing in Osaka. I really liked the 1:1 replica of a typical neighbourhood during the Edo (?) period. They simulate both day and night scenarios, and you can enter some of the houses and shops. If you like diaoramas, you will love this museum. There are scaled miniature models featuring different eras of housing at the 8th sty.

I got the ticket with the special exhibition. The special exhibition was very simple probably not worth the extra. However, the main exhibition hall was impressive. They have simulation of day and night, as well as day with thunder shower! Get the audio guide for the full experience. Also watch the video that will be played every 30mins or so. The videos were nicely done. Enjoyed the trip here.

This museum is an amazing place to witness the housing and life style of Osaka residents few centuries back. The museum has several model houses built the ancient way, decorated with items and home goods products of that time. They play a short movie every 15-20 minutes to explain the historical aspect of each of the house in the museum, including annual festivals and rituals that residents used to follow. It takes about 30 minutes to explore the space. They also have kimono rental here. I have seen some visitors renting them to take photos around the houses. After existing the houses, the museum has few more section and exhibitions related to growth and modernization of Osaka city. There’s also a small museum shop and restrooms after existing this area. Overall it was a nice, and more importantly indoor, place to visit to learn plenty about history of Osaka.

It’s inside a mall (?) top floor. There’s no line when we arrived. We used Osaka Amazing Pass so did not have to purchase tickets. Cool museum to show old Osaka life style. They have a short film and kimono experience if you would like to. It’s mainly display houses and items. Some you can actually go inside the houses. They have tours if you wish to sign up. We spent maybe 1 hour there. Experiencing and feeling the old city gives another taste among the modern city we have lived

Yesterday was wonderful day. The sun was bright and out. It was breezy and really good to be out. I went to Nakanoshima Rose Garden, the roses were beautiful. There was an event held yesterday, there were foods stalls, music, and some performances. It was nice to see a lot of people enjoying all and a little nature. It was by the river with lots of restaurants and cafe’s around. I enjoyed the a little picnic at Nakanoshima Lawn Square, read a book and just enjoyed the breeze and beautiful view. I think it’s perfect for family and friends.

after finishing my coffee at Brooklyn, I visited this park. it’s located just across the coffee shop, separated by a river, so it was within walking distance. when I got to the park, some of the flowers were already in bloom. it was so beautiful, the flower beds were full of vibrant colors. everyone was taking pictures of them. the park is also perfect if you just want to chill on the grass or go for a run. I wish I had worn my workout clothes, I definitely would’ve gone for a run in that beautiful green space.

15th November 2025 14°C night. I brought a friend here after coming here for the first time a week prior. I fell in love with this place and decided to come back for 2nd round. The illumination were beautiful, complemented by both the river and the night sky. The was also a water fountain display with music too. Definitely will be back here again. I felt a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. This is a one of the best place to heal and de-stress yourself after a hard week of work !

A spacious parks in the middle of river. They have a rose garden parts, which they put descirption on each type of roses. Looks like it is quite popular place to run? You can have a seat, enjoying the riverside view and contemplating lifes.

A good place to do your morning walk. Really quiet and u do get to see some ducks. Water is pretty clean too.

What a wonderful garden! The smell is amazing! Everywhere stunning roses!

Very nice. Clean. You can see several flowers around. A place to chat, roam, rest and ideal for people who just wants to experience nature and serenity. A good place to walk and take photos. Your pets will also love to roam here. It's a place for family, friends, couples and pets where you can eat, play, read, exercise, play your instrument, and rest a while. I love 🇯🇵 and I love it here.

The Grand Front Osaka complex is actually a combination of several buildings. Unfortunately, I didn’t research enough before visiting and assumed it was just one building, which left me feeling a bit lost while exploring. Overall, it’s a great place to visit, as long as you use the building floor plan to know where you are. The complex is welcoming and conveniently within walking distance of Osaka Station.

Another huge mall in the heart of Umeda. Has a lot of unique brands that cover many aspects of life. The place is always busy with people. Good for businesses!

Huge mall next to the train station. Well planned with spacious walkways and easy connections to adjacent buildings. Lots of shop, cafes and restaurants. The area is clean and well maintained. I love the outdoor fountain area with cute sculptures. I struggled with the signages initially but got the hang of it eventually.

Grand Front Osaka is a fantastic destination for shopping and exploring! The variety of boutique stores is impressive, offering everything from high-end fashion to unique local finds. It’s a great place to browse and discover something special. The Christmas decorations were absolutely stunning and added a magical atmosphere to the whole experience—definitely a highlight of our visit! That said, the layout can be a bit confusing, especially for first-time visitors. It took some time to navigate between the different areas. Overall, it’s a lively and vibrant spot that’s worth checking out, especially during the holiday season.

Large, modern shopping complex with lots of shops and restaurants. The open space outside has water features and a large green bear sitting in the water spitting out water from its mouth. The steps also have an advertisement for the expo. Probably quite a pleasant outdoor space when it’s not so hot. Rather busy inside, not many people outside due to the heat.

I'm not sure which building I was in since they are all interconnected like a maze. But this is a must visit location right outside of osaka station.

Great shopping 🛍️ Mall and so many restaurants

Great place to find kitchen items and beautiful pottery and knives etc… I bought some fun Totoro hand towels and kitchen curtain. There is a huge selection of unique tea wares and gadgets.

This whole street is only about kitchen stuff. I'm talking everything from the most exquisite, handcrafted knives, to those quirky little cooking gadgets you never even knew existed but suddenly can't live without. It's a total treasure trove for anyone who loves spending time in the kitchen. You'll see things fit for a Michelin-starred restaurant right next to perfect tools for your everyday home cooking. The blend of traditional Japanese implements and cutting-edge modern kitchen innovations is incredible. They often beat what you'd pay back home. The sheer variety and quality are just mind-blowing. Plus, it's the perfect spot to grab some unique kitchen souvenirs for your friends back home!

Great place for all things kitchenware. I specifically went for chopsticks & rests, sauce bowls, knives, and matcha bowl supplies and found everything there. I did notice the prices got better towards the second half of the market, so definitely check out all the stalls before going on a shopping spree in the first couple shops. All the shops I went to accepted card, but not all shops are tax free. I personally don’t recommend bringing children or strollers unless you have another person to watch them outside the stores, especially since most ceramic stores pile their items really high without any support - making it VERY easy for an adult to knock over accidentally, let alone a child.

Nestled in Osaka’s legendary Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street (aka the Disneyland for kitchen nerds) sits Kyoya, a pottery shop that’s equal parts fire hazard and treasure cave. Walk in and you’re immediately swallowed by a wall of plates, chopsticks, sauce dishes, tea cups, bowls, more bowls, and yes, the perfect butter bowl. The layout is chaotic in that glorious “only in Japan” way. Neon sale signs, hanging vines, summer festival decorations, and price tags that scream, “Don’t leave without a dozen things you didn’t know you needed.” It’s like a ceramic jungle that might collapse under the weight of its own discount bins. And then I saw it: a quiet little stoneware bowl: earthy glaze, minimalist form, a bit of a wabi-sabi edge. Cost? Less than a craft beer. Function? Butter. Dipping sauce. Maybe a midnight handful of peanuts if we’re being honest. It’s the kind of piece that whispers, “You’ve arrived.” Kyoya is not some serene artisanal boutique...it’s a working-class ceramics paradise, and it delivers. If your kitchen has even a shred of soul, it needs something from here. Just don’t expect them to bubble-wrap your ego. Grab a basket, dig deep, and trust your gut. Buy the damn bowl. Then buy six more.

a small street that sells tons of kitchenware, knives, japanese ceramics, and cutleries. really love the selection here— most of the ceramics are handmade in japan, and are sold at a great price. you can get matcha bowls, chasen holders, and whisks here for a decent price too!

My mom loves kitchenware shopping so it's not a surprise this is one of her favorite places on our trip to Japan. It's smaller but easier to shop compared to Kappabashi in Tokyo since you don't have to cross the street from one side to the other. It's also a short distance to Dotonbori and connected to a ton of other shopping opportunities in the area so it's super convenient and easy on the feet. Plenty of reasonably priced and quality items to pick from. One shop at the south end of the street had a particularly grumpy staff (acted as though I interrupted her from something important when I came up to the cashier counter, then told me what we picked out was a display item and not for sale, and then that was that, didn't seem interested in making a sale as they didn't offer to help me find a non-display replacement). Most other shops were friendly to deal with.

Great place to shop for cookware, whether you're in the industry or couldn't boil water. There's something for everybody!

Visited for the exhibit ‘Celadon Masterpieces from China and Korea’ in September 2025. They also house a permanent collection of amazing Korean ceramics from the Rhee Byung-Chang Collection. If possible, check out moco-chan, an adorable Korean tiger they’ve animated from a piece of porcelain from the second half of the 18th century in the current exhibit.

We discovered the museum through Google Maps because we were heading to the bookstore near there. We went on September 21st (Sunday) around 4 p.m there was no one in line and few people inside. The adult ticket cost about €12, which we thought was expensive considering the contents. We really liked the building's interior architecture. And the cafe next door where we had lunch. Regarding the exhibition, I have no criticism. You can see it well in 30 minutes; there weren't any outstanding works. Overall, if you have free time, I recommend visiting, but perhaps without going into the exhibition.

A beautiful museum for those interested in ceramics and Chinese and Japanese culture. Some items date back to B.C., which is quite impressive. The museum is also equipped with a highly advanced anti-earthquake system. Photography is allowed. No need to buy tickets in advance. They accept both card and cash and there is also a locker room to store your items for 100 yen.

Passed by, didn't have time to go in, but spent a while avoiding the clean details of the architecture from the outside. The contrasting steel stair care against the tiles facade made for an interesting composition.

Such a stunning museum, lovely building, incredible display cases and galleries and a first rate collection presented beautifully. I also love the gimmicky café products based off items from the collection, so much fun!

Visited during the Celadon exhibition, learnt about the historic value and significance of ceramics in ancient society.

The best museum I visited in Osaka! The artworks definitely deserve my second visit!! I will spend my whole day there observing the beautiful and breathtaking pottery and porcelain. The staff are professional and friendly. And the cafe, with a nice view, offers delicious desserts and beverages. Bought too much stuff at the store cuz they look so good!

It was easy to navigate to the museum. The staff were nice and friendly to help with the entrance and payment. I booked the ticket via klook. It was easy to get in. They have a 100yen refundable locker to store your baggage. Allows you to enjoy the museum without carrying your bags. It wasn’t crowded and I enjoyed the walk and the artwork :)

A highly respectful artist, historian, and creator who used his delicate observations and smart painting techniques to let us know how people live in the Edo Era in vast varieties after 👩🏻Pretty geishas' kawaii facial expressions and dress ups👘 🍱Delcious gourmet 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧people's daily lives and real interactions 🏞Breathtaking landscapes in distinctive four seasons🌸☀️🍁🌨 A one-of-a-kind visual guide to learn about the Edo Era in a beautiful and tranquil way😌

If you have the chance go and see beautiful 😍 works of art

Today I visited the Junko Koshino exhibition. I was absolutely blown away, right from the start the staff’s professionalism was outstanding. Although I was intending to visit the main gallery, I can’t resist any exhibition that I come across. I had an absolute blast learning about this pioneer of all things art, fashion and design, to say the least. The level of execution, along with content in this gallery is without a doubt WORLD CLASS. I’m ver excited to visit the main gallery tomorrow and recommend this as an absolute must go-to-stop for any art lovers who find themselves in this wonderful city!

Great gallery with nice view and in a central location. I went and saw Ekin's works in display in scroll forms, on lanterns and also on panels. His works are vivid in forms and colours, depicting different folklore stories. It was great that you could take photos freely, this means that I could take photos of the descriptions which were in Japanese and translate them into English which helped me to fully appreciate his works.

It's good. Very modern and great view. However, there's only one exhibition. I thought there were multiple exhibitions. Photography is not allowed and there's no foreign language information about the works being displayed despite it's an European exhibition. The check out of the gift shop was extremely slow. It was not busy but just very slow. I wouldn't wait to get in if the wait is more than ten minutes by the way. Also, they do have discounts for up to university students and accept credit cards.

TEAMlab installation was awesome. Perfect place to bring your kids to play out of the heat. Adults had fun too!

The museum are focusing on the suffering of the Osaka people during WWII, and the truma that they had. The exhibition did a good job to show the hardship that Osaka people were facing, caused my the Japanese military government. However, all these war were all started with a decaying Sino-Japanese relationship. The background text that they showed are very troubling, and heavily sugar coated. For example, in 1927, when the Chinese national party were advancing to Bejing, to subduing the Chinese warlords in Northern China, the Japanese were seeking "cooperative diplomacy" with the Chinese National party. The fact is, the Chinese national party were trying to avoid conflicts with the Japanese. The Chinese national party were even sending diplomats, to the Japanese army in Shandong for peace talk. However, these Chinese diplomats were murdered, and the Japanese army started a massacre in Shandong. This is the so called "cooperative diplomacy" by the Japanese. This is just one of the many examples how the text tone down the violence by the Japanese army towards other Asian countries. Oh by the way, Korean were heavily affected by the Sino-Japanese war, and played a key role as well, and they were only barely mentioned in the text. All in all, the museum is about the suffering that the Osaka people had in WWII, which is fine and worth visiting. However, the background information that they provided is the problem. Therefore, I am suggesting visitors to do some homework prior to the visit.

My Visit to Peace Osaka. Reflection Beyond History Since I began living in Japan and learning its culture and language, it was only natural that I would eventually begin to study its history too. I turned to many different sources, read documents, and watched films — and what I discovered filled me with complex, overwhelming emotions. For several days, I found myself crying constantly, unable to process the mix of sorrow and confusion. Finally, I decided to visit the Peace Osaka Museum in person — to see how Japan itself presents its past, to stand on this land and understand what its people had to live through to become what they are today. Before visiting, I read some online reviews. A few of them made me sad — especially comments calling the museum “sugar-coated.” But I chose not to react from emotion or judgment. People express history through the level of understanding they have, and I came not to debate, but to listen. This review is not written to defend or accuse any side — it is written with deep respect for Japan, for history, and for humanity. Someone among reviewers used words like “sugar-coated” to describe Japanese museums or education is not respect for the past. it is provocation. It shows how easily we can repeat the same old cycle of misunderstanding that history itself was meant to end. The problem is not the museum. The problem is the way of seeing — the mindset that looks for someone to blame instead of something to understand. The people of Japan today did not create that war; they carry its memory. Every time someone reduces their narrative to “sugar-coating,” they add more emotional weight to a generation already burdened by the consequences of a past they never chose. What matters is not whether the story is told softly or harshly — it is how it resonates. Conflict, guilt, and denial exist in every human being. The same distortion that once grew into world wars still exists today in smaller forms between people, within families, in communities, and between nations. The scale changes, but the pattern remains: misalignment of understanding. One person attacks, another defends, and both suffer. All generations remain in pain. We live in the 21st century. We have the tools science, empathy, and awareness to move beyond this repetition. It’s time to see history not as guilt or pride, but as a human lesson in signal balance: the same energy that causes war can, when harmonized, become wisdom. About Peace Osaka Peace Osaka is not “sugar-coating” history. It carries the unbearable weight of it — in silence — trying to find a language that doesn’t destroy hope. It is easy to point fingers; it is harder to hold space for understanding. And that is where Japan’s real strength lies — in its ability to endure, reflect, and still choose peace. Japanese people suffered on both sides — through loss, destruction, and also the burden of historical guilt. Those who fought decades ago could not foresee how their choices would make later generations carry this heavy emotional inheritance. Today’s Japanese citizens carry both the sorrow of victims and the shame of aggressors. The Peace Osaka Museum was not built to tell the full war story. It was built to make people feel what it meant to live through war as civilians. The fear, the air raids, the children crying, the firebombings that is what ordinary Japanese people experienced. It’s not meant to deny Japan’s aggression, more than that they have this war and year mentioned. But it’s meant to say: “Look what war does to anyone.” Every country preserves history through its own trauma. Each speaks from its wound. Many nations still struggle to speak of the war. They inherit consequence,but not the power that caused it. The full truth is too heavy for one country to carry alone. Different nations bear different emotional weights from the same past. Our role as civilians, learners, and humans is not to accuse or defend, but to help restore coherence. History should not divide us anymore. It should teach us how to feel and how to stop repeating the same mistakes.

One of the greatest museum. Strongly recommend for those who seek a war museum. The story start telling from Sino war to the end of ww2. Condense with tormented soul of the survivors and lost.

The admission fee is 250JPY. This place is not very well known and it’s located near Osaka Castle. It shares a lot of information about life during the war and what people experienced.

A place of remembrance in memory of the historical tragedy, at this time it is the bombardment in Osaka back during the World War II. The main theme consists of war remnants to form a number of exhibits displaying its traumatic impact on civilians' lives, including jne anti bomb shelter underground.

Almost didn’t go because some of the reviews I read on here, but I thought it was great! Gave a lot of history on the Sino-Japanese war which lead up to WW2. It explains life in Japan before during and after the war, the good the bad and the ugly. For those stating the museum was playing the victim card y’all didn’t read. They clearly state how hard the wars were on regular Japanese citizens and how the government mistreated them. Yes it does talk about the US bombings but that too is part of the history of the city and the war. I also found it to be the right size, go and spend an hour it’s only 250. Overall definitely interesting and worth your time

I think this museum is underrated. It took seconds to buy 250 jpy ticket from the machine and 2.5 hours to proceed with the audio guide (free app pocket curator). They have presented all the info in a well organised manner. I had the feeling after the visit but not agitated. There was no queue at the entrance, and it was a smooth visit besides school kids.

I visited Osaka, Japan back in 2016 - so this review is from the past. But I found these photos and I wanted to share them. I'm 31, from Kansas of the USA and I visited Osaka, Japan back during the Autumn of 2016. This Temple that my friend and I visited was just beautiful and although I didn't record it for a vlog - I had a lovely talk with some of the locals and I learned a bit about the Temple and its History. I remember thinking just how beautiful it was, how well maintained and just nice it was. The staff who worked on-sight were very polite and friendly - they answered questions I had. Overall, visiting this Temple was a very unique experience and I'm honored to have had the opportunity.

A nice temple between all the tall buildings. Peaceful and quite, like another world compared with the streets outside. Beautiful courtyard and garden. You can observe the praying rituals in the morning. There is a memorial for 51th sumo grand master in the compound. The lanterns on the side street are beautiful. Not too many tourist, so it's nice.

Very beautiful shrine area just a short walk from downtown. Beautiful interior and buildings. Nice place to stop along your way.

I ventured into this temple while walking around Kita Ward. The front of the temple is more modern than the back, which is where you can feel more of the history of the place. It is away from the tourist belt, so it's not noisy and crowded which makes the visit more pleasant and not hurried.

Chance upon this little temple. Very quiet place and the infrastructure is very nice and clean. Took a few photos for memory sake.

I stepped out of Higashi-Umeda Station Exit No.4, and walked through a narrow watering-hole alley east. I went under an elevated highway. After a couple of blocks, I found Taiyu-ji Temple on my left. Osaka 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #1 Taiyu-ji Temple Kukai (774-835) found a holy tree with fragrance in the forest where Taiyu-ji Temple is located today. He carved Ksitigarbha and Vaisravana statues out of the wood, built a hermitage, and enshrined the statues in it. Emperor Saga (786-842) found the story interesting and visited the statues next year. He presented his own guardian Buddhist image, which is the thousand-armed Sahasrabhuja statue, the main deity of Taiyu-ji Temple. In 843, the emperor's 12th son, Minamoto Toru (822-895), visited the hermitage, presented 8 hectares of land, built a full-scale temple, and named it Taiyu-ji as his name Toru was also pronounced Yu in the Chinese-style pronunciation. In the Siege of Osaka in 1615, the temple burned down. It was revived at the turn of the 18th century. The temple was reduced to ashes in one of 5 air raids in June, 1945. The Sahasrabhuja statue, however, had been evacuated to Mt. Koya, and had a narrow escape from danger.

It’s hard to believe such a serene temple exists in hustle and bustle of downtown Osaka, but it’s there. It’s a wonderful place to wander around when you need a break from the craziness of Umeda.

Osaka Horikawa Ebisu Shrine, also known as Ebessan, is a beloved Shinto shrine located in the heart of Osaka, Japan. It is dedicated to Ebisu, one of the Seven Gods of Fortune in Japanese folklore, specifically associated with good fortune, prosperity, and bountiful fishing. The shrine is a popular destination for visitors seeking blessings for business success and a lively atmosphere during its annual festivals. History: The history of Osaka Horikawa Ebisu Shrine dates back to the early 7th century, making it one of the oldest shrines in Osaka. It was originally founded to honor the deity Ebisu, and its name "Horikawa" refers to its location near the Horikawa River. Over the centuries, the shrine has become a central place for business owners and merchants to pray for good fortune and thriving enterprises. Features and Attractions: Main Hall (Honden): The main hall of the shrine is the focal point for worshipers. It houses the enshrined deity, Ebisu. Visitors offer prayers and make offerings here to seek blessings for prosperity and success in business. Noren Market: The shrine is famous for its lively Noren Market, held on the 10th and 20th of every month. Here, vendors sell an array of lucky charms, food, and traditional items. It's a vibrant and bustling marketplace where visitors can soak in the festive atmosphere. Ema and Talismans: Like many Shinto shrines, Horikawa Ebisu Shrine offers ema (wooden prayer plaques) and omamori (amulets) that are believed to bring good luck and business success. These are often purchased by business owners and entrepreneurs. Annual Ebisu Festival: The shrine's most significant event is the Ebisu Festival, which takes place in January, typically from the 9th to the 11th. The festival features parades, traditional performances, and rituals to welcome good fortune for the new year. It's a time of great celebration and merriment. Access and Transportation: Osaka Horikawa Ebisu Shrine is conveniently located within the bustling streets of Osaka, making it easily accessible: Address: 1-6-10 Kyutaromachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 541-0056, Japan By Train: Take the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line to Tanimachi 4-chome Station. The shrine is a short walk from the station. By Bus: Several bus routes pass near the shrine. The closest bus stop is Osaka Kyokaigakuen (Tanimachi 4-chome), served by multiple bus lines. By Car: Limited parking is available nearby, but due to traffic and parking restrictions, public transportation is recommended. Visiting Osaka Horikawa Ebisu Shrine offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the lively traditions of Ebisu worship and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of its festivals. It's a place where business aspirations, tradition, and festivity blend harmoniously.

The goshuin from this shrine was so pretty! The actual shrine itself as well gave a very tranquil vibe even though there was a main road right next door. A lovely place to stop by if youre in the area for sure!

They don’t make all their Goshuin equally ☹️. Like mine is so small compared to the other reviews!

Horikawa Ebisu is a beautiful shrine, from the entrance gates to the building itself. I was surprised to see it open and the reception desk on a rainy morning. I was just passing by, so I stopped here for prayers for good fortune, then got a goshuin stamp (300 yen fee). It's definitely worth stopping by if you're in the neighborhood. The reception staff was very kind and responsive when you ring the bell.

This shrine is dedicated to a very famous god of business. During the festival, not only business owners but also businessmen visit the shrine to pray for business prosperity.

This is a shrine NOT for tourists 😅. I guess I don’t even know what I shrine is until I got here. It’s for praying for their religion. Well it’s worth a stop for me to figure out a shrine.

Goshuins are 300 Yen and are handdrawn.

Small and adorable little shrine, I've never seen that many fox statues befor in any other Inari shrine. Lovely

Osaka 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #10 Did I call it a day? I visited temples in descending order to #11. I had visited #10 Ryukai-ji Temple almost a week before. No. The #10 deity used to be enshrined in Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine before the Gods and Buddhas Separation Order by the Meiji Restoration Government in 1868. I crossed Nagahori-dori Street to the north and climbed a hill to get to the shrine. I found a tree standing in the middle of the street. It must be a holy tree. Believe it or not, Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine was said to have been founded in 12 B.C. Human beings have inhabited in the Japanese Archipelago since 30 or 40 thousand years ago, although Archipelago itself was formed some 10 or 20 thousand years ago. "The shrine" could have been a holy place far before written history. It was revived in the 6th century.

Lovely little shrine tucked away.

You can tell when you are someplace sacred. Instinct i think.

A beautiful new year’s experience for a tourist.

Serenity beauty

Thanks you guys for posting on google maps, cuz without it, I would have never had the experience that I did, but going there myself would have been a good experience as well. 😊

Hogwarts Castle in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the magical heart of Universal Studios Japan, towering above the park with breathtaking detail. Walking through its halls feels like stepping into the films, with moving portraits, Dumbledore’s office, and the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom. The main attraction, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, combines state-of-the-art simulation with beloved scenes from the series. Whether you’re riding or just exploring, the castle offers an enchanting, unforgettable experience for every Potter fan.

Hogwarts Castle at Universal Studios Japan is not just a ride but also a breathtaking architectural marvel that transports visitors into the magical world of Harry Potter. With its towering spires, intricate details, and stunning facade, Hogwarts Castle is a sight to behold and a favorite spot for capturing memorable photos. As you wander the grounds of Hogsmeade, be sure to stop by the castle for a truly magical experience.For those seeking a quieter escape from the crowds, a hidden gem awaits behind Ollivanders wand shop. Venture to the nearby pier and you'll discover a serene spot with unobstructed views of Hogwarts Castle. Here, you can admire the majestic beauty of the castle from a different perspective and snap stunning photos without the hustle and bustle of the main thoroughfare. Whether you're a Harry Potter fan or simply appreciate breathtaking architecture, Hogwarts Castle offers a captivating backdrop for unforgettable moments at Universal Studios Japan.

Very beautiful. Though a bit dark inside, it can be indeed magical to some fans. You can either go only to the castle or to the simulator. The simulator locker room is very messy and crowded, and of course the behavior of all the people make it worse.

It was incredibly well made, and it looked stunning at night.

This is one of the best attractions within USJ! The castle is inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It looks exactly like in the movies! So surreal and mesmerizing. I love how much attention is put into the details. There is a souvernir shop that sells Harry Potter merchandises, most notably the magic wand which you could use to cast spells around the park. You should not miss the two rides in this park. One of it is the 3D ride inside the castle. I think the queue is quite long, but it's totally worth it. The other one is like a roller coaster. Totally enjoyed it even though I'm not a HP fan myself. There is also a live skit at designated times. Do check out for that.

You don’t have to be a Harry Potter fan to enjoy this ride! In my opinion this ride is done better here at USJ than in Florida, where they have the same ride. The difference is in the lighting and the seating. In Florida, you can sometimes see other parties in the ride, but at USJ, it really feels like you’re on your own. As you enter the castle the staff will give you a card and tell you to put all your belongings in a locker. Once you leave the lockers, give that same card back to the staff so that they know you’re there for the ride! When you come back from the ride you won’t have the card - this is to prevent people from trying to jump on the ride again from the locker area. I love this ride personally, and would highly recommend it!

I visited Harry Potter World in Los Angeles, and this one here in Osaka is quite similar. They tap into the winter theme for decoration. Wait time for the quidditch ride is about 45 minutes throughout the day. This will obviously vary throughout the year. This attraction opened in 2015 so it won't be crazy busy anymore. Arthur Weasley's car is a nice touch. The butterbeer served cold tastes really good and costs $7 CAD.

A bustling and exciting food, shop, and activity area in Osaka. Things start closing around 9pm, but some food areas are open until 10/11pm. The area is great for photos at night with lots of lights, signs, and a great view of the osaka tower. Just a short walk from denden town or ride from namba area, I would definitely anyone visiting to check it out. They have mini archery, old school arcades, and all kinds of foods and bars.

A busy few streets centred on the distinctive Tsutenkaku tower, with lots of over the top decorations! There are plenty of food options here, along with all the typical Don Quijote and convenience stores. Worth a visit for a meal, but perhaps not more than a couple of hours.

Mainly found locally eateries here but prices are alot lower than compared to the main Dotonbori area. Went to this little izakaya for an amazing set lunch about ¥400

This is a tourist location. Great small shops and things to do. Be weary of bars very expensive pricing. I enjoyed the area alot but very expensive to drink and eat at most locations

Many game stores and small stores for different kinds of foods. Many tourists customers drinking in the stores. Many stores with Skewers where you can have with a drink.

Fun place for homie Osaka vibes. This area and shinsekai are my go to for showing deep Osaka and getting some yummy food.

If you like fried food (wagyu corn dogs? Haha), smoking in restaurants, and nihilist day drinking then this is your place.

The restaurants are very touristy and the food is ordinary. However the seafood restaurant was good. They have wagyu sukiyaki style, and fish cooked any way you want. Some restaurants charge extra for the pickled veggies. Went to the closest sushi restaurant near the Tower, and it was magnificent. Service was good too.

The market itself is a fun experience to walk around in. There are shops, stalls and games all within a short walk. The food has been varying in quality, but the atmosphere is lovely! There also a lot of people and not that much space in the smaller corridors.

Just a sprawling space that fits the vibe check. I would recommend going in the afternoon since a lot of places are still closed between 9:00-11:00 on Sundays. There are so many "hole in the wall" options that it's really difficult to decide where to eat unless you are going to the super popular tourist heavy places. No restrooms or public wifi.

This is what happens when a turn-of-the-century dream collides with reality and decides to just keep on existing out of sheer stubborn pride. Think Blade Runner without the budget—retro, a little gritty, nostalgic in a way you can’t quite place, like your grandma’s attic opened a yakitori stall. The entrance sign promises a “New World,” and you know what? It kind of delivers. Not in the shiny, hyper-modern, AI-and-matcha-latte way—but in the form of red lanterns, shuttered shops, wild leopard print clothing, and a meat croquette stand that might just restore your faith in humanity. It’s not polished. It’s not curated. It’s not pretending. There are closed shutters, aging fans, and signage that looks like it’s been hanging there since the Showa era. But there’s life here—resilient, unapologetic, and deeply Osaka. You’ll see locals chatting, bargain shoes stacked like a sale bin exploded, and signs offering cleaning services next to tiger heads on a clothes rack. There’s a store called “Dragon Coffee” and another that seems to sell only melon bread and nostalgia. And that’s the charm. It’s weird. It’s raw. It smells like fried magic. You feel like you walked into a yakuza-owned thrift store run by Studio Ghibli characters in retirement. I’m going back tonight. Because I need to know what happens here when the sun goes down. Does it light up like a lantern-lit fever dream? Do the tigers come alive? Is Dragon Coffee still open? Stay tuned.

Very interesting market street, travel back in time. Lots of old school flavour. Don’t go too early, shops might not be open

Must-see place in Osaka. Lots of food stalls and resturants are available. A beautiful sight in the evenings with all the signboards lit up.

Vibrant part of town, full of restaurants, street foods, and games. The vibe is city streets combined with a carnival.