Experience Osaka in 48 Hours
Living in central Japan affords me the opportunity of traveling easily. At least once a month, I like to travel outside of Aichi to experience different things in Japan. Of the cities I frequently visit, Osaka holds a special place in my heart because it was the first city I visited in Japan. Conveniently accessible by car or train, it has a myriad of captivating neighborhoods and offers rich cultural experiences.
Osaka, Japan's third largest city, exudes a unique and distinctive charm that sets it apart from other cities in the country. From its cuisine and atmosphere to its fashion and distinct dialect, everything about Osaka screams uniqueness. Osaka is renowned for its culinary delights, having a wide array of Japan's famous foods. Additionally, compared to other cities, Osaka offers relatively easier access to various international cuisines. (It is home to my favorite falafel and taco shops in Japan.) However, planning a trip to Osaka can be a daunting task due to this abundance of incredible sights and delectable foods. Follow my guide if you want to experience some of my favorite neighborhoods and sights in Osaka in an efficient way.
Typically, upon arriving in Osaka, I park my car either at the hotel itself or at a nearby parking lot close to Osaka Station. My favorite hotel is the Intercontinental Osaka, conveniently situated next to the station. While several new hotels have recently opened in the area, and more are scheduled to open in the future, I have not had the chance to explore the newly opened ones yet.
To start the day, I recommend taking the train to Namba Station. Nearby, you will discover the enchanting Namba Yasaka Shrine, featuring a majestic lion head that is the perfect Instagram location. Brooklyn Coffee Roasters is an excellent spot to grab a cup of coffee near the station. After savoring your coffee, take a stroll through the vibrant Sennichimae Shopping Street. This bustling area is known for its wide range of kitchenware and presents a fantastic opportunity to purchase a few souvenirs. Enjoy the leisurely walk to Shitenno-ji and enjoy the temple grounds.
Once you have explored the temple, make sure to pay a visit to Kuromon Ichiba Market. This lively market is filled with an array of street food stands and restaurants, offering a variety of things to try. In my opinion, Kuromon Ichiba Market offers even better food options than its neighboring counterpart, Dotonbori, which is renowned for its food scene.
From the market, make your way towards Dotonbori, but do not overlook the side streets that often hide unique shops, cafes, and local goods. As you venture onto the main street of Dotonbori, be prepared to be mesmerized by restaurants with incredibly captivating signs. You can find many takoyaki shops in the area although most cater primarily to tourists. While there, be sure to snap a few photos of the iconic Glico running man, one of Osaka's most well-known landmarks.
Continue your journey by exploring the markets and department stores of Shinsaibashi. Here, you can find anything your heart desires, from Korean skincare products and designer goods to charming character merchandise. I often go to Daimaru and Parco while in the area. The sixth floor of Parco houses the Godzilla store and a captivating array of character shops, including ones dedicated to Ghibli and Lego. You will find plenty of photo opportunities here. Even though there are lots of places to shop, it is quite exhausting.
While shopping or after, it is the perfect time to grab lunch. The department stores and market areas in Shinsaibashi present a diverse selection of local cuisine. However, there are also numerous other dining options available beyond this area. Between Shinsaibashi and Amerikamura, you will discover a variety of local restaurants to choose from. One of my personal favorites is Falafel Sababa. While I understand that most tourists are inclined towards Japanese food, Falafel Sababa is one of the best falafel shops in Japan in my opinion. Keep in mind that it is a small establishment and may not be convenient for large groups due to limited seating capacity.
After your break, explore the vibrant Amerikamura (American Village). Here you can find many shops with trinkets and vintage goods. You might even stumble upon a few classic American cars and lowriders adding an extra touch of flair to the area. If you find yourself in Amerikamura in the evening, check out Bar Nayuta—a fantastic cocktail bar that sets the perfect mood for a memorable night.
For dinner, I often gravitate towards Sweet Basil or Tacos del Infinito, both of which are located close to Osaka Station. Sweet Basil serves up authentic Thai cuisine, although be warned it can be extremely spicy. Tacos del Infinito offers a wide variety of Mexican-inspired fare, both in terms of food and drinks. While we can get tacos and Thai food in Nagoya, the quality of these establishments in Osaka surpasses all expectations.
A perfect way to end the day’s adventure is to stroll around the streets of Umeda. Here, you will encounter a plethora of fascinating sights, whether you opt for shopping, an ascent to the top of the iconic Umeda Sky Building (although it might require some planning and could be crowded at night), or an exploration of the countless izakaya and charming pubs scattered throughout the area.
If you stay at the Intercontinental Osaka, I suggest you pay a visit to the hotel's bar for a nightcap accompanied by live performances. The live performers never fail to set the perfect ambiance. Once in your room, enjoy the beautiful night views of Osaka.
On the second day of your travels, I highly recommend embarking on an early morning visit to Osaka Castle. Arriving early allows you to savor the tranquility of the park and capture some stunning photos before the crowds start to pour in. While the museum in the castle has a few interesting pieces, it is not my favorite castle interior.
Next, choose between going to Osaka Station for a day filled with shopping or visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Ranked among Japan's largest and most impressive aquariums, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan promises an immersive journey into the depths of the Pacific Rim. The modern atmosphere combined with the exhibits creates an unforgettable experience for both adults and children alike. Allocate two to three hours here, depending on your preferred pace.
While there are several restaurants near the aquarium, I suggest returning to Umeda for lunch and savoring one of the renowned okonomiyaki or kushiage shops. Even if you do not speak Japanese, you can easily find these in department stores or Osaka Station. Many of these establishments offer English or picture menus, ensuring a smooth ordering experience. If you are feeling adventurous, I encourage you to explore smaller local eateries that may lack English menus but offer truly authentic and delicious experiences.
Once you have rested and regained your energy, go shopping in the area. Osaka Station and its surroundings house a multitude of department stores, malls, and even an underground mall of shops. I often find myself making special trips to Osaka solely for the purpose of shopping. The city boasts an array of exceptional stores for gifts and souvenirs, making it a shopper's paradise.
As the day winds to an end, seek out dinner at a small izakaya or local restaurant. Be sure to check the reviews online to make sure that the food and atmosphere will be suitable for you.
If some of my suggestions don’t interest you, another option is to spend a day at Universal Studios Japan! Since it typically closes early (unless there are night events scheduled), you'll still have the evening to explore other areas and make the most of your time in Osaka. I have been to USJ a number of times, and while I enjoy it, I recommend eating before or after going to the park. The food options available at Universal Studios Japan don't quite live up to the standards set by their counterparts in the United States.
With so much to do and see in Osaka, it is no wonder most people yearn for more than two days to explore this city. However, as time constraints often come into play, I have crafted this itinerary to enable you to experience several of Osaka's most iconic attractions within a couple of action-packed days. Remember to research and add a few cafes and restaurants that align with your tastes to create a truly unforgettable experience.
Regardless of whether you opt for shopping, exploration, or other attractions, I am confident that you will find Osaka just as enjoyable as I always do. The city offers a wide range of experiences that cater to different interests, ensuring a fun visit for everyone.
Now, I’m curious—if you have been to Osaka, what is your favorite thing to do or place to visit in Osaka?
