Guidebook for Osaka-shi

Megumi
Guidebook for Osaka-shi

Shopping

Grand Front Osaka in four towers opened on the north side of Osaka Station in April 2013, consisting of 266 shops and restaurants and offering walkability to Osaka's waterfront.
1198 locals recommend
Grand Front Osaka
4-Ofukacho Kita Ward
1198 locals recommend
Grand Front Osaka in four towers opened on the north side of Osaka Station in April 2013, consisting of 266 shops and restaurants and offering walkability to Osaka's waterfront.
Please come over to the head store of the biggest discount shop group in Japan, Don Quijote, in Umeda! From brand goods to home appliances, we have an extensive selection of tax-exempt items.
434 locals recommend
Shopping: Don Quijote Umeda
4-16 Komatsubarachō
434 locals recommend
Please come over to the head store of the biggest discount shop group in Japan, Don Quijote, in Umeda! From brand goods to home appliances, we have an extensive selection of tax-exempt items.
Japan's longest shopping street stretches approx. 2.6 km to the north from Tenjimbashi to Tenjinbashi-Suji 7-chome.
15 locals recommend
3 Chome-7 Tenjinbashi
15 locals recommend
Japan's longest shopping street stretches approx. 2.6 km to the north from Tenjimbashi to Tenjinbashi-Suji 7-chome.
This facility stretches from Kitashinchi Station of JR and Nishi Umeda Station of subway towards the south.
63 locals recommend
Dojima Chika center(DOTICA)
1-chōme-6-1 Dōjima
63 locals recommend
This facility stretches from Kitashinchi Station of JR and Nishi Umeda Station of subway towards the south.
Stretching under eastern Osaka Station of JR line east to west, EST offers shops for young women from teens to the late twenties.
83 locals recommend
Est
3-25 Kakudachō
83 locals recommend
Stretching under eastern Osaka Station of JR line east to west, EST offers shops for young women from teens to the late twenties.
An iconic department store that reopened in the spring of 2011 with more on offer.
319 locals recommend
Daimaru Museum Umeda
3-chōme-1-1 Umeda
319 locals recommend
An iconic department store that reopened in the spring of 2011 with more on offer.
Umeda Loft offers a wide variety of merchandise, from small items to large interior goods.
272 locals recommend
Umeda Loft
16-7 Chayamachi
272 locals recommend
Umeda Loft offers a wide variety of merchandise, from small items to large interior goods.
A large-scale, multiple commercial complex located at Nishi-Umeda, in front of JR Osaka Station.
121 locals recommend
Herbis Osaka
2-chōme-5-25 Umeda
121 locals recommend
A large-scale, multiple commercial complex located at Nishi-Umeda, in front of JR Osaka Station.
An Umeda landmark offering a range of shops and entertainment venues.
171 locals recommend
Herbis Plaza / Herbis Plaza Ent
2-chōme-2-22 Umeda
171 locals recommend
An Umeda landmark offering a range of shops and entertainment venues.
This high-quality commercial district includes exquisite brand name shops, gourmet restaurants and sophisticated venues.
61 locals recommend
The Hilton Plaza West
2-chōme-2-2 Umeda
61 locals recommend
This high-quality commercial district includes exquisite brand name shops, gourmet restaurants and sophisticated venues.
A popular discount store selling a huge range of electrical devices.
671 locals recommend
Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Umeda
1-1 Ōfukachō
671 locals recommend
A popular discount store selling a huge range of electrical devices.
A fashion hot spot boasting a wide selection of fine boutiques.
172 locals recommend
E-ma
1-chōme-12-6 Umeda
172 locals recommend
A fashion hot spot boasting a wide selection of fine boutiques.
A new shopping zone for sophisticated adults has opened in the youthful district of Chayamachi.
372 locals recommend
NU Chayamachi
10-12 Chayamachi
372 locals recommend
A new shopping zone for sophisticated adults has opened in the youthful district of Chayamachi.
A shopping center located at the terminal building of Hankyu Umeda Station.
152 locals recommend
Hankyu Sanban Gai
1-chōme-1-3 Shibata
152 locals recommend
A shopping center located at the terminal building of Hankyu Umeda Station.
Huge underground shopping mall in Umeda with more than 200 shops.
123 locals recommend
Whity Umeda
7-Komatsubarachō Kita Ward
123 locals recommend
Huge underground shopping mall in Umeda with more than 200 shops.
This underground mall of Umeda is built to recreate the streets of Europe, with a bright and open design.
82 locals recommend
Diamor, Osaka
Umeda-1-chōme-10 Kita Ward
82 locals recommend
This underground mall of Umeda is built to recreate the streets of Europe, with a bright and open design.
Located at the center of Umeda, this facility boasts a huge red ferris wheel that's become the symbol of this commercial complex.
703 locals recommend
Hep Five
5-15 Kakudachō
703 locals recommend
Located at the center of Umeda, this facility boasts a huge red ferris wheel that's become the symbol of this commercial complex.
One of Japan's largest department stores in its class covering a total area of 84,000 square meters.
797 locals recommend
Hankyu Umeda Honten
8-7 Kakudachō
797 locals recommend
One of Japan's largest department stores in its class covering a total area of 84,000 square meters.
Chayamachi is the Osaka Kita area's most popular downtown district for young people. There is an array of shops, including eateries, amusement spaces, variety shops, and boutiques.
12 locals recommend
8-26 Chayamachi
12 locals recommend
Chayamachi is the Osaka Kita area's most popular downtown district for young people. There is an array of shops, including eateries, amusement spaces, variety shops, and boutiques.
On the 6th floor alone are 26 restaurants from kushikatsu to sushi, Chinese to Italian. At the far end, mostly organic Sai-ji-ki is an all-you-can-eat buffet.
2406 locals recommend
Namba Parks
2-chōme-10-70 Nanbanaka
2406 locals recommend
On the 6th floor alone are 26 restaurants from kushikatsu to sushi, Chinese to Italian. At the far end, mostly organic Sai-ji-ki is an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Entertainment & Activities

Office building from B2F to 23F accommodates a book store with the largest floor size in Kansai, restaurants and sundry stores. Dojima Yakushido is in the East square.
22 locals recommend
1 Chome-6-20 Dōjima
22 locals recommend
Office building from B2F to 23F accommodates a book store with the largest floor size in Kansai, restaurants and sundry stores. Dojima Yakushido is in the East square.
Temma Tenjin Hanjo Tei is a permanent rakugo theater located in the north part of the precincts of Osaka Temmangu Shrine, which is famous for its Tenjin Festival.
112 locals recommend
Temma Tenjin Hanjo Tei
2-chōme-1-34 Tenjinbashi
112 locals recommend
Temma Tenjin Hanjo Tei is a permanent rakugo theater located in the north part of the precincts of Osaka Temmangu Shrine, which is famous for its Tenjin Festival.
The Central Wholesale Market is an approximately 10-minute walk from Noda Station on JR Loop Line or Tamagawa Station on the Sennichimae subway Line.
22 locals recommend
1-chōme-1-86 Noda
22 locals recommend
The Central Wholesale Market is an approximately 10-minute walk from Noda Station on JR Loop Line or Tamagawa Station on the Sennichimae subway Line.
An arena theater hall seating 1,704, specifically designed for classical concerts.
158 locals recommend
The Symphony Hall
2-chōme-3-3 Ōyodominami
158 locals recommend
An arena theater hall seating 1,704, specifically designed for classical concerts.
A traditional noh theater where the all-cypress main stage with hashi-gakari is surrounded by shirasu, an area of white pebbles.
28 locals recommend
2 Chome-3 Nakazakinishi
28 locals recommend
A traditional noh theater where the all-cypress main stage with hashi-gakari is surrounded by shirasu, an area of white pebbles.
A full-sized intellectual entertainment space for everyone, from children to adults.
87 locals recommend
Knowledge Capital
3-1 Ōfukachō
87 locals recommend
A full-sized intellectual entertainment space for everyone, from children to adults.
Stepping out from the all-white foyer into the theater, you'll find yourself in a totally black space.
78 locals recommend
Sankei Hall Breeze
2-chōme-4-9 Umeda
78 locals recommend
Stepping out from the all-white foyer into the theater, you'll find yourself in a totally black space.
Shiki Theatre Company, Japan's largest theatrical company, whose musicals such as "Cats," "Mamma Mia!" and "The Phantom of the Opera" are highly popular.
73 locals recommend
Osaka Shiki Theatre
73 locals recommend
Shiki Theatre Company, Japan's largest theatrical company, whose musicals such as "Cats," "Mamma Mia!" and "The Phantom of the Opera" are highly popular.
Presents various performances, centered on theater and Takarazuka revues, but also musicals, classical music, operas, ballets, etc.
108 locals recommend
Umeda Art Theater
19-1 Chayamachi
108 locals recommend
Presents various performances, centered on theater and Takarazuka revues, but also musicals, classical music, operas, ballets, etc.
Kaiyūkan is easily one of the world's best aquariums. An 800m-plus walkway winds past displays of sea life from around the Pacific 'ring of fire': Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, unreasonably cute Arctic otters, Monterey Bay seals and unearthly jellyfish. Most impressive is the ginormous central tank, housing a whale shark, manta and thousands of other fish and rays. There are good English descriptions, but the audioguide (¥500) gives more detail. Expect lots of families and school groups.
1923 locals recommend
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri
1923 locals recommend
Kaiyūkan is easily one of the world's best aquariums. An 800m-plus walkway winds past displays of sea life from around the Pacific 'ring of fire': Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, unreasonably cute Arctic otters, Monterey Bay seals and unearthly jellyfish. Most impressive is the ginormous central tank, housing a whale shark, manta and thousands of other fish and rays. There are good English descriptions, but the audioguide (¥500) gives more detail. Expect lots of families and school groups.
Also known as Osaka Dome, this futuristic stadium is home to the Orix Buffaloes baseball team and also hosts concerts, trade fairs and other events.
273 locals recommend
Kyocera Dome Osaka
Chiyozaki-3-chōme-中2 Nishi Ward
273 locals recommend
Also known as Osaka Dome, this futuristic stadium is home to the Orix Buffaloes baseball team and also hosts concerts, trade fairs and other events.
Among the biggest in the world, this 112m-high Ferris wheel offers unbeatable views of Osaka Bay and the seemingly endless Osaka/Kōbe conurbation. Give it a whirl at night to enjoy the vast carpet of lights.
629 locals recommend
Tempozan Ferris Wheel
1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri
629 locals recommend
Among the biggest in the world, this 112m-high Ferris wheel offers unbeatable views of Osaka Bay and the seemingly endless Osaka/Kōbe conurbation. Give it a whirl at night to enjoy the vast carpet of lights.
Modeled after sister parks in the USA, 'USJ' bursts with Hollywood movie-related rides, shows, shops and restaurants. Top billing goes to the new, ¥45 billion (!) Wizarding World of Harry Potter , a painstakingly recreated Hogsmeade Village (shop for magic wands, Gryffindor capes and butterbeer) plus the 'Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey' thrill ride through Hogwart's School. Wizarding World admission is by timed ticket. Other popular rides include Spider-Man . Leaflet maps and signage are in English, though narrations and entertainment are in Japanese. Long queues are common at the park's major venues (90 minutes is not unusual on the Harry Potter ride). To shorten waits, USJ offers a
4440 locals recommend
Universal Studios Japan
Sakurajima
4440 locals recommend
Modeled after sister parks in the USA, 'USJ' bursts with Hollywood movie-related rides, shows, shops and restaurants. Top billing goes to the new, ¥45 billion (!) Wizarding World of Harry Potter , a painstakingly recreated Hogsmeade Village (shop for magic wands, Gryffindor capes and butterbeer) plus the 'Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey' thrill ride through Hogwart's School. Wizarding World admission is by timed ticket. Other popular rides include Spider-Man . Leaflet maps and signage are in English, though narrations and entertainment are in Japanese. Long queues are common at the park's major venues (90 minutes is not unusual on the Harry Potter ride). To shorten waits, USJ offers a

Arts & Culture

A section of the townscape of Osaka in the late Edo Period is recreated to perfection. There are also exhibits and introductions of the townscapes and housing of the Meiji, Taisho and Showa periods.
35 locals recommend
4-chōme-6-20 Tenjinbashi
35 locals recommend
A section of the townscape of Osaka in the late Edo Period is recreated to perfection. There are also exhibits and introductions of the townscapes and housing of the Meiji, Taisho and Showa periods.
A museum for kids where they can experience many different activities and workshops.
378 locals recommend
Kids Plaza Osaka
2-chōme-1-7 Ōgimachi
378 locals recommend
A museum for kids where they can experience many different activities and workshops.
This new museum features temporary shows, including, so far, Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/kansai/osaka/sights/museums-galleries/abeno-harukas-art-museum#ixzz4AU1VKd4D
155 locals recommend
Abeno Harukas Art Museum
1-chōme-1-43 Abenosuji
155 locals recommend
This new museum features temporary shows, including, so far, Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/kansai/osaka/sights/museums-galleries/abeno-harukas-art-museum#ixzz4AU1VKd4D
This museum has one of the world's finest collections of Chinese and Korean ceramics, with smaller galleries of Japanese ceramics and Chinese snuff bottles. At any one time, approximately 400 of the gorgeous pieces from the permanent collection are on display, and there are often special exhibits (with an extra charge). From the station, cross the river and go right, passing the Central Public Hall.
413 locals recommend
The Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka
1-chōme-1-26 Nakanoshima
413 locals recommend
This museum has one of the world's finest collections of Chinese and Korean ceramics, with smaller galleries of Japanese ceramics and Chinese snuff bottles. At any one time, approximately 400 of the gorgeous pieces from the permanent collection are on display, and there are often special exhibits (with an extra charge). From the station, cross the river and go right, passing the Central Public Hall.
This impressive museum houses regularly changing exhibitions of modern (post-1945) Japanese and international art. Also arresting is its underground construction by architect Cesar Pelli; it's like a submarine with walls over 3m thick with light that filters down through skylights above the lobby. The entrance is marked by a large sculpture of steel tubes above ground, said to resemble a butterfly. It's towards the western end of Naka-no-shima.
701 locals recommend
The National Museum of Art, Osaka
4-chōme-2-55 Nakanoshima
701 locals recommend
This impressive museum houses regularly changing exhibitions of modern (post-1945) Japanese and international art. Also arresting is its underground construction by architect Cesar Pelli; it's like a submarine with walls over 3m thick with light that filters down through skylights above the lobby. The entrance is marked by a large sculpture of steel tubes above ground, said to resemble a butterfly. It's towards the western end of Naka-no-shima.
Built above the ruins of Naniwa Palace (c 650), visible through the basement floor, this museum houses dramatically illuminated recreations of the old city and life-sized figures in the former palace court. There are also interesting early-20th-century displays, and great views of Osaka-jō. English explanations are pretty sparse, so rent an English-language audio guide (¥200). The museum is just southwest of the castle park, in a sail-shaped building adjoining the NHK Broadcast Center.
979 locals recommend
Osaka Museum of History
4-chōme-1-32 Ōtemae
979 locals recommend
Built above the ruins of Naniwa Palace (c 650), visible through the basement floor, this museum houses dramatically illuminated recreations of the old city and life-sized figures in the former palace court. There are also interesting early-20th-century displays, and great views of Osaka-jō. English explanations are pretty sparse, so rent an English-language audio guide (¥200). The museum is just southwest of the castle park, in a sail-shaped building adjoining the NHK Broadcast Center.
From its humble invention in 1958 by Andō Momofuku, (1910-2007, later chair of Nissin Foods), instant rāmen has grown into a global business. Exhibits at this offbeat museum showcase its birthplace, instant noodles from around the world, and a 'tunnel' of Nissin products. For many visitors, the highlight is customising your own package of instant rāmen to take away and eat later (¥300), including decorating the cup. Get the free English-language audio guide (¥2000 yen deposit). Expect long queues at weekends. It's about a 10-minute walk from the station.
294 locals recommend
Cup Noodle Museum Osaka Ikeda
8-25 Masumichō
294 locals recommend
From its humble invention in 1958 by Andō Momofuku, (1910-2007, later chair of Nissin Foods), instant rāmen has grown into a global business. Exhibits at this offbeat museum showcase its birthplace, instant noodles from around the world, and a 'tunnel' of Nissin products. For many visitors, the highlight is customising your own package of instant rāmen to take away and eat later (¥300), including decorating the cup. Get the free English-language audio guide (¥2000 yen deposit). Expect long queues at weekends. It's about a 10-minute walk from the station.
Two subway stops from Umeda, this museum contains a life-sized reproduction of an 1830s Osaka neighbourhood: shophouses, drug stores, an old-style sentō (public bath) and more. Enhancing the Edo Period mood, lighting shifts between day and night, shops sell traditional toys and unique souvenirs, and for ¥200 visitors can rent kimono for photo-opps. Invest ¥100 in the English audio guide, since English signage is limited. The building is right behind as you exit the station. Just outside is lively Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street, which claims to be Japan's longest shopping street at 3km. Pick up an English-language guide at the museum or along the route.
518 locals recommend
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
6-chōme-4-20 Tenjinbashi
518 locals recommend
Two subway stops from Umeda, this museum contains a life-sized reproduction of an 1830s Osaka neighbourhood: shophouses, drug stores, an old-style sentō (public bath) and more. Enhancing the Edo Period mood, lighting shifts between day and night, shops sell traditional toys and unique souvenirs, and for ¥200 visitors can rent kimono for photo-opps. Invest ¥100 in the English audio guide, since English signage is limited. The building is right behind as you exit the station. Just outside is lively Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street, which claims to be Japan's longest shopping street at 3km. Pick up an English-language guide at the museum or along the route.
Located within the expansive Osaka World Expo Park (Banpaku-kōen), this fabulous museum brims with interesting and colourful objects for a whirlwind tour through many of the world's cultures. Exhibits range from Bollywood movie posters to Ainu textiles, Ghanaian barbershop signboards to Bhutanese mandalas and Japanese festival floats, even a Filipino jeepney. Note: there's limited English signage so it's best to get an audio guide. From the station, cross the bridge to the park and follow the signs to the museum. From Kyoto, take the Hankyū line to Minami Ibaraki Station and change to the Osaka Monorail.
120 locals recommend
National Museum of Ethnology
10-1 Senribanpakukōen
120 locals recommend
Located within the expansive Osaka World Expo Park (Banpaku-kōen), this fabulous museum brims with interesting and colourful objects for a whirlwind tour through many of the world's cultures. Exhibits range from Bollywood movie posters to Ainu textiles, Ghanaian barbershop signboards to Bhutanese mandalas and Japanese festival floats, even a Filipino jeepney. Note: there's limited English signage so it's best to get an audio guide. From the station, cross the bridge to the park and follow the signs to the museum. From Kyoto, take the Hankyū line to Minami Ibaraki Station and change to the Osaka Monorail.
In the park Ryokuchi-kōen, this fine open-air museum features a collection of traditional Japanese country houses, transported here and painstakingly reconstructed. Most striking is the giant gasshō-zukuri (steeply slanting thatch-roofed) farmhouse from Gifu Prefecture, and a thatched-wall farmhouse from Nagano, which looks to be wearing a shaggy coat. The whole place comes alive with fiery red maple leaves during November. Take the Kita-Osaka Kyūko line (an extension north from the Midō-suji subway line, ¥90 surcharge) to Ryokuchi-kōen Station. From the west exit, go straight (past McDonald's), follow the road down to Hattori Ryokuchi Park (服部緑地公園), and walk through the park to the museum.
60 locals recommend
日本民家集落博物館
1 Hattoriryokuchi
60 locals recommend
In the park Ryokuchi-kōen, this fine open-air museum features a collection of traditional Japanese country houses, transported here and painstakingly reconstructed. Most striking is the giant gasshō-zukuri (steeply slanting thatch-roofed) farmhouse from Gifu Prefecture, and a thatched-wall farmhouse from Nagano, which looks to be wearing a shaggy coat. The whole place comes alive with fiery red maple leaves during November. Take the Kita-Osaka Kyūko line (an extension north from the Midō-suji subway line, ¥90 surcharge) to Ryokuchi-kōen Station. From the west exit, go straight (past McDonald's), follow the road down to Hattori Ryokuchi Park (服部緑地公園), and walk through the park to the museum.
Reconstruction of Osaka's historic kabuki theatre, now a venue for plays, musicals, concerts and Japanese period dramas.
158 locals recommend
Shin Kabuki-za
6-chōme-5-13 Uehonmachi
158 locals recommend
Reconstruction of Osaka's historic kabuki theatre, now a venue for plays, musicals, concerts and Japanese period dramas.
Japan's best venue for the mesmerising art of bunraku , puppet theatre closely associated with Osaka. Performances can last all day, with two multiple-act parts up to 4½ hours each (acts are often unrelated). Too long? Nonreserved, same-day single-act tickets are sold at the venue from 9.45am, priced accordingly. Rent the English-language audio guide (full program/single act ¥700/300) for detailed explanations. Shows sell out quickly.
1339 locals recommend
National Bunraku Theater
1-chōme-12-10 Nipponbashi
1339 locals recommend
Japan's best venue for the mesmerising art of bunraku , puppet theatre closely associated with Osaka. Performances can last all day, with two multiple-act parts up to 4½ hours each (acts are often unrelated). Too long? Nonreserved, same-day single-act tickets are sold at the venue from 9.45am, priced accordingly. Rent the English-language audio guide (full program/single act ¥700/300) for detailed explanations. Shows sell out quickly.

Food Scene

High-class nightlife district, representative of the Kita area of Osaka, that has thrived as an information exchange location for businessmen.
12 locals recommend
1-chōme-3-1 Umeda
12 locals recommend
High-class nightlife district, representative of the Kita area of Osaka, that has thrived as an information exchange location for businessmen.
Tiny shop serving delectable crab fried rice.
36 locals recommend
Kani-chahan Eki Marche Osaka
3-chōme-1-1 Umeda
36 locals recommend
Tiny shop serving delectable crab fried rice.
Classice tako-yaki stand just north of Dōguya-suji arcade.
157 locals recommend
Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae
11-19 Nanbasennichimae
157 locals recommend
Classice tako-yaki stand just north of Dōguya-suji arcade.
Station-side branch of this well-known local sushi chain that does kaiten-sushi (conveyor-belt sushi).
63 locals recommend
回転寿司がんこ
3-chōme-1-1 Umeda
63 locals recommend
Station-side branch of this well-known local sushi chain that does kaiten-sushi (conveyor-belt sushi).
On the B2 floor beneath the Hilton Osaka. Among the restaurants worth trying here is the tempura specialist, Shinkiraku .
55 locals recommend
THE HILTON PLAZA HALL The Grand Cafe
2-chōme-2-2 Umeda
55 locals recommend
On the B2 floor beneath the Hilton Osaka. Among the restaurants worth trying here is the tempura specialist, Shinkiraku .
Located in Tempōzan Marketplace, next to Osaka Aquarium, this faux 1960s-nostalgic food court has stalls selling Osaka specialities.
69 locals recommend
Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho
1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri
69 locals recommend
Located in Tempōzan Marketplace, next to Osaka Aquarium, this faux 1960s-nostalgic food court has stalls selling Osaka specialities.
There is a good variety of restaurants under the distinctive cylindrical Maru Building, including Korean, Indian, yakitori and an omuraisu (fried rice wrapped in a thin omelette topped with sauce) specialist.
43 locals recommend
Osaka Marubiru
1-chōme-9-20 Umeda
43 locals recommend
There is a good variety of restaurants under the distinctive cylindrical Maru Building, including Korean, Indian, yakitori and an omuraisu (fried rice wrapped in a thin omelette topped with sauce) specialist.
This organic all-you-can-eat restaurant serves mostly Japanese cuisine with a focus on seasonal foods and vegetable dishes. The 'drink bar' is an additional ¥214, and there's a discount for children. If you go at lunchtime, be prepared to sit in line.
85 locals recommend
SAIJIKI
85 locals recommend
This organic all-you-can-eat restaurant serves mostly Japanese cuisine with a focus on seasonal foods and vegetable dishes. The 'drink bar' is an additional ¥214, and there's a discount for children. If you go at lunchtime, be prepared to sit in line.
A handy Ame-Mura location, an intimate space with art-filled walls and streetside tables, friendly service, live jazz some Sundays and, importantly, good coffee, panini and salumi – for a relaxed lunchtime or evening pit stop. Alcohol is also served.
55 locals recommend
BANCO
1-chōme-9-26 Nishishinsaibashi
55 locals recommend
A handy Ame-Mura location, an intimate space with art-filled walls and streetside tables, friendly service, live jazz some Sundays and, importantly, good coffee, panini and salumi – for a relaxed lunchtime or evening pit stop. Alcohol is also served.
This casual pizzeria has an open kitchen with a large brick oven, so you can see the delicious thin-crust pizzas being prepared. Staff are enthusiastic and there's an interesting menu (in Japanese and Italian) of mostly pizzas but also antipasto and desserts. Smoking only on the outdoor terrace.
107 locals recommend
Cuorerudino
1-chōme-14-26 Minamihorie
107 locals recommend
This casual pizzeria has an open kitchen with a large brick oven, so you can see the delicious thin-crust pizzas being prepared. Staff are enthusiastic and there's an interesting menu (in Japanese and Italian) of mostly pizzas but also antipasto and desserts. Smoking only on the outdoor terrace.
This long-running Thai place serves fairly authentic versions of the standard favourites like green curry and tom yum kung, and does a great-value lunch buffet. Tables at the back have views of the canal. Look for the small English sign a couple of buildings past the giant crab – Krungtep is in the basement.
109 locals recommend
クンテープ 道頓堀本店
1-chōme-6-14 Dōtonbori
109 locals recommend
This long-running Thai place serves fairly authentic versions of the standard favourites like green curry and tom yum kung, and does a great-value lunch buffet. Tables at the back have views of the canal. Look for the small English sign a couple of buildings past the giant crab – Krungtep is in the basement.
The 70-plus eateries across multiple buildings here are almost overwhelming. To target your browsing, Eki Marché on the southwest side has dozens of small, reasonably priced spots such as Kani Chahan-no-Mise for delectable crab fried rice, and a branch of Kaiten Sushi Ganko does kaiten-sushi (conveyor-belt sushi).
1234 locals recommend
Osaka Station City
3-chōme-1-3 Umeda
1234 locals recommend
The 70-plus eateries across multiple buildings here are almost overwhelming. To target your browsing, Eki Marché on the southwest side has dozens of small, reasonably priced spots such as Kani Chahan-no-Mise for delectable crab fried rice, and a branch of Kaiten Sushi Ganko does kaiten-sushi (conveyor-belt sushi).
This spacious, funky 'freestyle' izakaya attracts a younger crowd for large serves of cheap yet decent food, cool design and good beats. In addition to standard izakaya fare are some unconventional choices such as camembert-potato mochi (dumplings), Jamaican-style jerk chicken and Indonesian nasi goreng (fried rice).
41 locals recommend
ゆめ八プレミアム 難波店
41 locals recommend
This spacious, funky 'freestyle' izakaya attracts a younger crowd for large serves of cheap yet decent food, cool design and good beats. In addition to standard izakaya fare are some unconventional choices such as camembert-potato mochi (dumplings), Jamaican-style jerk chicken and Indonesian nasi goreng (fried rice).
At the main branch of this Osaka institution, a large dining hall serves a wide variety of set-course meals and sushi (à la carte or in sets), offering traditional, quality ingredients at a reasonable price. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station. Look for the logo of the guy wearing a headband.
111 locals recommend
Japanese food GANKO sushi Umeda Honten
111 locals recommend
At the main branch of this Osaka institution, a large dining hall serves a wide variety of set-course meals and sushi (à la carte or in sets), offering traditional, quality ingredients at a reasonable price. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station. Look for the logo of the guy wearing a headband.
If you've never tried Japanese-style curry rice, this restaurant on a quiet Ame-Mura sidestreet is a good place to get acquainted with its warm, saucy charms. Choose from tomato-, beef- or chicken-based curries and a variety of toppings (¥50 to ¥330), amid simple but modern decor. You can even get yours with genmai (brown rice).
101 locals recommend
心斎橋マドラス5
101 locals recommend
If you've never tried Japanese-style curry rice, this restaurant on a quiet Ame-Mura sidestreet is a good place to get acquainted with its warm, saucy charms. Choose from tomato-, beef- or chicken-based curries and a variety of toppings (¥50 to ¥330), amid simple but modern decor. You can even get yours with genmai (brown rice).
For a break from Japanese food, stop at this casual, foreigner-friendly joint. Pizza lunch sets are especially good value, but there are also calzones, wraps, bagels, desserts, bubble teas and brunch-time pancakes, plus poutine (a Montreal specialty of fries topped with gravy and more, courtesy of the Canadian owners), and cocktails.
108 locals recommend
Slices
2-chōme-3-21 Nishishinsaibashi
108 locals recommend
For a break from Japanese food, stop at this casual, foreigner-friendly joint. Pizza lunch sets are especially good value, but there are also calzones, wraps, bagels, desserts, bubble teas and brunch-time pancakes, plus poutine (a Montreal specialty of fries topped with gravy and more, courtesy of the Canadian owners), and cocktails.
This lively local chain sets the standard for kushikatsu (¥100-250), alongside izakaya faves like sashimi, sushi and grilled dishes. Yokozuna couldn't be easier to find, behind giant placards painted with sumo wrestlers. If this location is full, two others with the same menu are steps away (2-4-11 Ebisu-higashi and 2-5-9 Ebisu-higashi).
124 locals recommend
Yokozuna Tsutenkaku shop
3-chōme-6-1 Ebisuhigashi
124 locals recommend
This lively local chain sets the standard for kushikatsu (¥100-250), alongside izakaya faves like sashimi, sushi and grilled dishes. Yokozuna couldn't be easier to find, behind giant placards painted with sumo wrestlers. If this location is full, two others with the same menu are steps away (2-4-11 Ebisu-higashi and 2-5-9 Ebisu-higashi).
This large, comfortable hipster cafe in Ame-Mura serves good coffee, drinks and eclectic light meals: pastas, sandwiches, salads, soy-milk-based French toast, sausage and cabbage burrito, and tuna & avocado rice bowls. It's all amid modernist decor with big windows for people watching and a few iPads for guest use. Downside: can be a bit smoky.
140 locals recommend
Planet37
2-2-道頓堀 中央区
140 locals recommend
This large, comfortable hipster cafe in Ame-Mura serves good coffee, drinks and eclectic light meals: pastas, sandwiches, salads, soy-milk-based French toast, sausage and cabbage burrito, and tuna & avocado rice bowls. It's all amid modernist decor with big windows for people watching and a few iPads for guest use. Downside: can be a bit smoky.
Satoyama's all-you-can-eat 'Viking' (buffet) set-up lets you choose from mostly Japanese home-style dishes, while enjoying great views of the Hep Five Ferris wheel. Come after 8.30pm and you'll pay the lunch price for dinner. Discounts for kids. Enter the building across from Kinokuniya at Hankyu Umeda Station; take the elevator to the 17th floor.
91 locals recommend
里山dining 野の宴阪急ターミナルビル店
1-chōme-1-4 Shibata
91 locals recommend
Satoyama's all-you-can-eat 'Viking' (buffet) set-up lets you choose from mostly Japanese home-style dishes, while enjoying great views of the Hep Five Ferris wheel. Come after 8.30pm and you'll pay the lunch price for dinner. Discounts for kids. Enter the building across from Kinokuniya at Hankyu Umeda Station; take the elevator to the 17th floor.
Beneath the massive green dragon, this indoor-outdoor spot offers house-made noodles and a front-row seat to the Dōtombori scene. Purchase a ticket from a machine, sit at a low table on a tatami platform, top your noodle soup with kimchi , garlic or marinated green onion, and slurp away. Don't linger too long, as there always seems to be a queue.
125 locals recommend
Kinryu Ramen Midosuji
1-chōme-7-13 Nanba
125 locals recommend
Beneath the massive green dragon, this indoor-outdoor spot offers house-made noodles and a front-row seat to the Dōtombori scene. Purchase a ticket from a machine, sit at a low table on a tatami platform, top your noodle soup with kimchi , garlic or marinated green onion, and slurp away. Don't linger too long, as there always seems to be a queue.
The name means 'chicken nobility', but prices at this popular Osaka-based yakitori chain are decidedly for regular folk. Look for the yellow and red sign and the number 280 (the price of all the generously portioned grilled skewers, plus tax), then climb the narrow stairs to the dining room with booths separated by untreated wood slats, and streaming J-pop hits.
104 locals recommend
Torikizoku America-mura
1-chōme-8-15 Nishishinsaibashi
104 locals recommend
The name means 'chicken nobility', but prices at this popular Osaka-based yakitori chain are decidedly for regular folk. Look for the yellow and red sign and the number 280 (the price of all the generously portioned grilled skewers, plus tax), then climb the narrow stairs to the dining room with booths separated by untreated wood slats, and streaming J-pop hits.
A peaceful retreat from the busy streets of Shinsaibashi, this welcoming Osaka landmark serves udon noodles, hearty nabe (cast-iron pot) dishes, and shabu-shabu (thin slices of meat and vegetables cooked in a broth and dipped in sauce) for reasonable prices. Look for the traditional three-storey wooden building with sliding-door entrance, just north of the corner.
129 locals recommend
Nishiya Honten
Higashishinsaibashi-1 Chome-18 Chuo Ward
129 locals recommend
A peaceful retreat from the busy streets of Shinsaibashi, this welcoming Osaka landmark serves udon noodles, hearty nabe (cast-iron pot) dishes, and shabu-shabu (thin slices of meat and vegetables cooked in a broth and dipped in sauce) for reasonable prices. Look for the traditional three-storey wooden building with sliding-door entrance, just north of the corner.
At this adorable, all-vegan, mostly organic restaurant, lunch might be Indian curry or brown rice risotto, while dinner gets more Japanese-fusion with dishes like hijiki (sea green) samosas, shiitake mushroom cutlets, and pasta with dried tofu, shiitake , onion, shiso leaves and walnut and garlic sauce. From the cafe menu, try smoothies, coffees and tofu cheesecake.
124 locals recommend
レコッコレ
124 locals recommend
At this adorable, all-vegan, mostly organic restaurant, lunch might be Indian curry or brown rice risotto, while dinner gets more Japanese-fusion with dishes like hijiki (sea green) samosas, shiitake mushroom cutlets, and pasta with dried tofu, shiitake , onion, shiso leaves and walnut and garlic sauce. From the cafe menu, try smoothies, coffees and tofu cheesecake.
This popular restaurant in the Ohatsutenjin-dōri arcade serves up that great Osaka favourite, okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), cooked on a griddle before you. There are lots to choose from the picture menu, including veg options, but the tokusen mikkusu yaki (mixed okonomiyaki with fried pork, shrimp and squid; ¥1080) is a classic. Look for red and white signage out front.
150 locals recommend
Yukari Sonezaki honten
2-chōme-14-13 Sonezaki
150 locals recommend
This popular restaurant in the Ohatsutenjin-dōri arcade serves up that great Osaka favourite, okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), cooked on a griddle before you. There are lots to choose from the picture menu, including veg options, but the tokusen mikkusu yaki (mixed okonomiyaki with fried pork, shrimp and squid; ¥1080) is a classic. Look for red and white signage out front.
Two storeys undergroud and three decades old, this shop is cramped and workmanlike, but locals queue for udon noodles made before your eyes. Cold noodles are the specialty; try refreshing namajoyu (with ground daikon radish and sudachi lime; ¥600) or tenzaru (with tempura; ¥1100). Order from the picture menu, and get hand-gesture eating instructions from the owner. Avoid weekdays between noon and 1pm, when the office-worker lunch crowd descends.
135 locals recommend
Umeda Hagakure
135 locals recommend
Two storeys undergroud and three decades old, this shop is cramped and workmanlike, but locals queue for udon noodles made before your eyes. Cold noodles are the specialty; try refreshing namajoyu (with ground daikon radish and sudachi lime; ¥600) or tenzaru (with tempura; ¥1100). Order from the picture menu, and get hand-gesture eating instructions from the owner. Avoid weekdays between noon and 1pm, when the office-worker lunch crowd descends.
In this country where seafood is sometimes eaten so fresh it's still moving, Zauo has tables on long 'fishing boats' over tanks where patrons fish for their own dinner. If you're lucky enough to hook something, there's celebratory drumming and your fish is whisked away to be prepared how you like (priced according to the type of fish). Alternatively, try an eight-piece sushi omakase nigiri , or a very tasty shio-yaki (salt-grilled) fish set from the menu. ¥300-per-person table charge. Reserve for a 'boat' table.
340 locals recommend
Zauo Fishing Restaurant
1-chōme-1-13 Nipponbashi
340 locals recommend
In this country where seafood is sometimes eaten so fresh it's still moving, Zauo has tables on long 'fishing boats' over tanks where patrons fish for their own dinner. If you're lucky enough to hook something, there's celebratory drumming and your fish is whisked away to be prepared how you like (priced according to the type of fish). Alternatively, try an eight-piece sushi omakase nigiri , or a very tasty shio-yaki (salt-grilled) fish set from the menu. ¥300-per-person table charge. Reserve for a 'boat' table.
A popular place to sample Osaka's signature dish. Try the house special Dōtombori yaki, a toothsome treat with pork, beef, squid, shrimp and cheese. Another unique specialty: tonpei-yaki , an omelette wrapped around fried pork. Some tables look out over the Dōtombori canal.
24 locals recommend
President CHIBO
6-30 Souemonchō
24 locals recommend
A popular place to sample Osaka's signature dish. Try the house special Dōtombori yaki, a toothsome treat with pork, beef, squid, shrimp and cheese. Another unique specialty: tonpei-yaki , an omelette wrapped around fried pork. Some tables look out over the Dōtombori canal.
Step into an oasis of calm amid Dōtombori's chaos to be welcomed by kimono-clad staff at one of the area's oldest and most revered udon specialists. Try kitsune udon – noodles topped with soup-soaked slices of fried tofu. Look for the traditional exterior, and the willow tree outside.
243 locals recommend
Dotombori Imai honten
1-chōme-7-22 Dōtonbori
243 locals recommend
Step into an oasis of calm amid Dōtombori's chaos to be welcomed by kimono-clad staff at one of the area's oldest and most revered udon specialists. Try kitsune udon – noodles topped with soup-soaked slices of fried tofu. Look for the traditional exterior, and the willow tree outside.
On Hōzen-ji Yokochō, the minimalist atmosphere of this graceful shop lets you feast your eyes on kappō-ryōri : a multi-course chef-driven extravaganza artfully presented in gorgeous pottery that might come topped with a colourful leaf or water-misted for just the right sheen. Since peak seasonal ingredients change virtually daily, you may never have the same dish twice here.
113 locals recommend
正弁丹吾亭
1-chōme-7-12 Dōtonbori
113 locals recommend
On Hōzen-ji Yokochō, the minimalist atmosphere of this graceful shop lets you feast your eyes on kappō-ryōri : a multi-course chef-driven extravaganza artfully presented in gorgeous pottery that might come topped with a colourful leaf or water-misted for just the right sheen. Since peak seasonal ingredients change virtually daily, you may never have the same dish twice here.
There's a cheery bustle inside this hard-working kaiten-sushi restaurant in a prime Dōtombori location. Over 50 seats zigzag around counters where plates rotate, colour-coded by price and thoughtfully labelled in multiple languages. Non-sushi-eaters can get cooked foods including tori no karaage (fried chicken) and fried tuna. English-speaking staff help make sense of it all.
163 locals recommend
Daiki-suisan kaitenzushi Dotombori
163 locals recommend
There's a cheery bustle inside this hard-working kaiten-sushi restaurant in a prime Dōtombori location. Over 50 seats zigzag around counters where plates rotate, colour-coded by price and thoughtfully labelled in multiple languages. Non-sushi-eaters can get cooked foods including tori no karaage (fried chicken) and fried tuna. English-speaking staff help make sense of it all.
Friendly and trendy, near the western edge of Ame-Mura, Absinthe serves fantastic cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and juices and a rare (for Japan) Mediterranean menu (falafel, hummus and babaganoush, plus pastas and pizzas). It's a tad pricey, but you're paying for quality ingredients, stylish surrounds and laid-back atmosphere; sliding doors create a sidewalk cafe vibe, weather permitting. And, yes, it does serve absinthe.
189 locals recommend
Cafe ABSINTHE
1-chōme-2-27 Kitahorie
189 locals recommend
Friendly and trendy, near the western edge of Ame-Mura, Absinthe serves fantastic cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and juices and a rare (for Japan) Mediterranean menu (falafel, hummus and babaganoush, plus pastas and pizzas). It's a tad pricey, but you're paying for quality ingredients, stylish surrounds and laid-back atmosphere; sliding doors create a sidewalk cafe vibe, weather permitting. And, yes, it does serve absinthe.
Head downstairs to this spirited, friendly izakaya for standards such as skewered meats, seafood, vegies fresh off the grill and giant pieces of tori no karaage (fried chicken). The best seats are at half-round counters, where your chef will serve you using a loooong paddle. Most dishes are ¥324. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station, to the left of the signage featuring a guy wearing a headband.
96 locals recommend
Isaribi
1-chōme-5-12 Shibata
96 locals recommend
Head downstairs to this spirited, friendly izakaya for standards such as skewered meats, seafood, vegies fresh off the grill and giant pieces of tori no karaage (fried chicken). The best seats are at half-round counters, where your chef will serve you using a loooong paddle. Most dishes are ¥324. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station, to the left of the signage featuring a guy wearing a headband.

Sightseeing

Known by the nickname Tenma-no-Tenjin-san. Enshrines Sugawara-no-Michizane, the god of learning. Famous for the Tenjin Festival held every year on July 24th and 25th.
2 Chome-1 Tenmabashi
Known by the nickname Tenma-no-Tenjin-san. Enshrines Sugawara-no-Michizane, the god of learning. Famous for the Tenjin Festival held every year on July 24th and 25th.
The site of the main guardian god of Sonezaki, Umeda, built over 1,300 years ago.
189 locals recommend
Tsuyu Tenjinsha (Ohatsu Tenjin)
2-chōme-5-4 Sonezaki
189 locals recommend
The site of the main guardian god of Sonezaki, Umeda, built over 1,300 years ago.
Taiyuji Temple is a long-established temple founded by Kukai, also known posthumously as Kobo-Daishi (774-835 A.D.).
53 locals recommend
3-7 Taiyūjichō
53 locals recommend
Taiyuji Temple is a long-established temple founded by Kukai, also known posthumously as Kobo-Daishi (774-835 A.D.).
Atmospheric alley dotted with traditional restaurants and bars.
551 locals recommend
Hozenji Yokocho street
2 Chome-7-21 Higashishinsaibashi
551 locals recommend
Atmospheric alley dotted with traditional restaurants and bars.
Built 1911, this Neo-Renaissance building is an important cultural property.
307 locals recommend
Osaka City Central Hall
Nakanoshima-1-chōme-1 Kita Ward
307 locals recommend
Built 1911, this Neo-Renaissance building is an important cultural property.
Home of the most famous Kuidaore Tarō statue, at the heart of Dōtombori.
147 locals recommend
Nakaza Cuidaore Building
1-chōme-7-21 Dōtonbori
147 locals recommend
Home of the most famous Kuidaore Tarō statue, at the heart of Dōtombori.
The crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku - built 1912, rebuilt 1956 - is the central landmark of Shin-Sekai.
2055 locals recommend
Tsutenkaku
1-chōme-18-6 Ebisuhigashi
2055 locals recommend
The crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku - built 1912, rebuilt 1956 - is the central landmark of Shin-Sekai.
Founded in the 10th century, this shrine is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the Shintō god of scholarship. The honden (main hall) and main gate were most recently rebuilt in 1845.
499 locals recommend
Osaka Temmangu
2-chōme-1-8 Tenjinbashi
499 locals recommend
Founded in the 10th century, this shrine is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the Shintō god of scholarship. The honden (main hall) and main gate were most recently rebuilt in 1845.
Just south and parallel to the canal is this pedestrianised street, where dozens of restaurants and theatres vie for attention with the flashiest of signage: giant 3-D crab, puffer fish, dragon and more.
3588 locals recommend
Dotonbori
Dotonbori-9-1 Chome Chuo Ward
3588 locals recommend
Just south and parallel to the canal is this pedestrianised street, where dozens of restaurants and theatres vie for attention with the flashiest of signage: giant 3-D crab, puffer fish, dragon and more.
A century ago, Shin-Sekai ('new world') was home to an amusement park that defined cutting edge. Now this entertainment district mixes down-on-its-heels with retro cool. It's centred around the crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku – built 1912, rebuilt 1956 – surrounded by ancient pachinko parlours, rundown theatres and a few homeless folks and suspicious-looking characters. Shin-Sekai still attracts plenty of visitors for nostalgia and cheap eateries behind over-the-top signage, especially for kushikatsu (deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers).
834 locals recommend
Shinsekai
Ebisuhigashi-8-2 Chome Naniwa Ward
834 locals recommend
A century ago, Shin-Sekai ('new world') was home to an amusement park that defined cutting edge. Now this entertainment district mixes down-on-its-heels with retro cool. It's centred around the crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku – built 1912, rebuilt 1956 – surrounded by ancient pachinko parlours, rundown theatres and a few homeless folks and suspicious-looking characters. Shin-Sekai still attracts plenty of visitors for nostalgia and cheap eateries behind over-the-top signage, especially for kushikatsu (deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers).
Founded 593, Shitennō-ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, although only the big stone torii (Shintō shrine gate) is original, the oldest of its kind in the country (1294). Shitennō-ji's best visited for the lovely strolling garden, Honbō Teien , just northeast of the main precincts. Otherwise, the grounds are a somewhat desolate expanse of raked gravel, but there's a five-storey pagoda, which (unusually) you can climb up. On the 21st and 22nd of each month is a very good flea market outside the temple, with antiques and secondhand goods, including old kimono.
1112 locals recommend
Shitennoji
1-chōme-1-11-18 Shitennōji
1112 locals recommend
Founded 593, Shitennō-ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, although only the big stone torii (Shintō shrine gate) is original, the oldest of its kind in the country (1294). Shitennō-ji's best visited for the lovely strolling garden, Honbō Teien , just northeast of the main precincts. Otherwise, the grounds are a somewhat desolate expanse of raked gravel, but there's a five-storey pagoda, which (unusually) you can climb up. On the 21st and 22nd of each month is a very good flea market outside the temple, with antiques and secondhand goods, including old kimono.
Japan's tallest building (300m, 60 storeys), this Cesar Pelli–designed tower opened in March 2014 and dominates Osaka's southern skyline, offering sweeping city views. It houses Japan's largest department store (Kintetsu, floors B2-14), other shops, a hotel, offices, restaurants and observation decks. Admission is free except for the top-level Harukas 300 observation deck and the Abeno Harukas Art Museum , where temporary shows so far have encompassed Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Although Abeno Harukas is Japan's tallest building, the tallest structure is Tokyo Sky Tree , at 634m.
2395 locals recommend
Abeno Harukas
1-chōme-1-43 Abenosuji
2395 locals recommend
Japan's tallest building (300m, 60 storeys), this Cesar Pelli–designed tower opened in March 2014 and dominates Osaka's southern skyline, offering sweeping city views. It houses Japan's largest department store (Kintetsu, floors B2-14), other shops, a hotel, offices, restaurants and observation decks. Admission is free except for the top-level Harukas 300 observation deck and the Abeno Harukas Art Museum , where temporary shows so far have encompassed Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Although Abeno Harukas is Japan's tallest building, the tallest structure is Tokyo Sky Tree , at 634m.
After unifying Japan in the late 16th century, General Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this castle (1583) as a display of power, using, it's said, the labour of 100,000 workers. Although the present structure is a 1931 concrete reconstruction (refurbished 1997), it's nonetheless quite a sight, looming dramatically over the surrounding park and moat. Inside is an excellent collection of art, armour, and day-to-day implements related to the castle, Hideyoshi and Osaka. An 8th-floor observation deck has 360-degree views. Hideyoshi's original granite structure was said to be impregnable, yet it was destroyed in 1614 by the armies of Tokugawa Ieyasu , rebuilt 15 years later, then razed again when anothe
1376 locals recommend
Osakajo
Osakajo Chuo Ward
1376 locals recommend
After unifying Japan in the late 16th century, General Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this castle (1583) as a display of power, using, it's said, the labour of 100,000 workers. Although the present structure is a 1931 concrete reconstruction (refurbished 1997), it's nonetheless quite a sight, looming dramatically over the surrounding park and moat. Inside is an excellent collection of art, armour, and day-to-day implements related to the castle, Hideyoshi and Osaka. An 8th-floor observation deck has 360-degree views. Hideyoshi's original granite structure was said to be impregnable, yet it was destroyed in 1614 by the armies of Tokugawa Ieyasu , rebuilt 15 years later, then razed again when anothe
Dedicated to Shintō deities of the sea and sea travel, this graceful shrine was founded in the early 3rd century and is considered the headquarters for all Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan. The buildings are faithful replicas of the ancient originals, with a couple that date back to 1810, and grounds are crisscrossed by a tree- and lantern-lined waterway spanned by a bright orange drum bridge. It's a rare Shintō shrine that predates the influence of Chinese Buddhist architectural styles.
503 locals recommend
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
2-chōme-9-89 Sumiyoshi
503 locals recommend
Dedicated to Shintō deities of the sea and sea travel, this graceful shrine was founded in the early 3rd century and is considered the headquarters for all Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan. The buildings are faithful replicas of the ancient originals, with a couple that date back to 1810, and grounds are crisscrossed by a tree- and lantern-lined waterway spanned by a bright orange drum bridge. It's a rare Shintō shrine that predates the influence of Chinese Buddhist architectural styles.

Essentials

The new center of Umeda, Osaka, centered on the Umeda Sky Building. Enjoy dining, movies, and also the Floating Garden Observatory that allows visitors to view Osaka from 170 meters aboveground.
34 locals recommend
Japan Post
1-chōme-4-13 Tamatsukuri
34 locals recommend
The new center of Umeda, Osaka, centered on the Umeda Sky Building. Enjoy dining, movies, and also the Floating Garden Observatory that allows visitors to view Osaka from 170 meters aboveground.

Getting Around

A well-known bridge in Osaka, commonly called the "Lion Bridge." It is noted for its classical lampposts. It also features grand stone steps leading to Nakanoshima Park.
74 locals recommend
Naniwa Bridge
Nakanoshima-1-chōme-1 Kita Ward
74 locals recommend
A well-known bridge in Osaka, commonly called the "Lion Bridge." It is noted for its classical lampposts. It also features grand stone steps leading to Nakanoshima Park.