Osaka is a lively city filled with endless charm, waiting for travelers to explore. It is known as "The Nation’s Kitchen" because it has been Japan’s central hub for rice trading since ancient times. This guarantees that Osaka is not only a haven for delicious food but also a fascinating cultural hotspot you won’t want to miss!

Explore Osaka’s top attractions, carefully selected for you by Traveloka. Get ready to dive into a world of flavors and thrilling experiences! By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll be packing your bags, booking your flight to Osaka, and gearing up for an unforgettable journey!

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a globally renowned theme park in Osaka, Japan, delivering top-tier entertainment. As the newest addition to the Universal Studios family, USJ boasts 15 themed zones packed with thrilling rides and spectacular parades that leave visitors in awe. One of the park’s biggest highlights is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where fans can step into the magical universe, don their wizard robes, and immerse themselves in a stunningly realistic recreation of the beloved Harry Potter series. But that’s not all! Minion Park is another must-visit zone, overflowing with the mischievous charm of the adorable yellow Minions. Their playful antics make this spot a favorite among visitors of all ages. With so much to explore, Universal Studios Japan is truly a dream destination for adventure seekers and movie lovers alike!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ReBdAd5bvr41smJr9

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – One of the World’s Largest Indoor Aquariums! Located along Osaka Bay, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is the second-largest aquarium in the world, featuring a massive 8-story building with uniquely themed exhibits on each floor. The highlight of this attraction is its gigantic main tank, home to a stunning variety of marine life, both big and small, creating an awe-inspiring miniature ocean right before your eyes. The undisputed star of the aquarium is the majestic whale shark, the gentle giant of the sea. Joining it is the equally impressive manta ray, gliding gracefully through the water, captivating visitors with its sheer size and elegance. This underwater wonderland is a must-visit destination for marine life enthusiasts and families alike!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gqTFjJUhexL9wPC19

Standing tall at 112.5 meters, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel was once the tallest Ferris wheel in the world in 1997. Though it has since lost the title, it remains a breathtaking landmark at the entrance of Osaka Bay, drawing visitors with its majestic presence. More than just an impressive sight, this Ferris wheel offers a stunning panoramic view of Osaka from above. The experience becomes even more magical during sunset, when the sky is painted in mesmerizing hues, making for an unforgettable moment. A ride on this iconic giant wheel is a must for anyone looking to capture Osaka’s beauty from a whole new perspective!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SXcH5rgwPQMbRpCdA

No trip to Osaka’s bay area would be complete without a cruise on the Santa Maria! This classic ship, inspired by the one Christopher Columbus sailed on to discover new continents, is a must-see for anyone interested in history, fantasy, and adventure. The Santa Maria is twice the size of the original, making it even more impressive. The cruise offers a round-trip journey from Tempozan Harbor Village, past the Kaiyukan Aquarium and other key landmarks around Osaka Bay. The ride lasts about 45 minutes and departs every hour. Perfect for those who love adventure and fantasy, this cruise is a unique way to explore Osaka’s stunning waterfront!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LuZqvSXkdrQRabzP9

For Lego enthusiasts, Legoland Discovery Center in Osaka is an absolute dream come true! Step into a world of creativity and imagination with millions of Lego bricks, where you can build and create anything your heart desires. A standout feature is MINILAND, a miniature replica of Osaka, created using over 1 million Lego bricks. It’s truly a sight to behold, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks in incredible detail! Whether you’re a child or an adult who loves Lego, this place promises a fun-filled experience for all ages.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2Zc3WkxMesZPZFKw6

The Osaka Science Museum is an exciting, modern destination with four floors packed with fascinating exhibits on everything from the universe to chemistry, electricity, and energy. It’s a place where learning becomes an adventure, making complex topics fun and engaging for everyone. One of the highlights is the Omimax Planetarium Dome, where visitors can experience an immersive 360-degree view of space, showcasing the wonders of the universe in a truly unique way. It’s a rare and impressive technology that makes this museum stand out! This is a must-visit for anyone curious about the world around them.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/eiKp9hhmpYz63y1fA

Expo City is the largest all-in-one entertainment hub in Osaka and Japan, offering a fantastic mix of attractions perfect for family fun. From educational exhibits to theme parks and museums, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include the Orbi Osaka natural history museum, the interactive Pokemon Expo Gym, and the Gundam Café. Outside the Expo City building, two massive Gundam robots stand proudly, immediately grabbing your attention as soon as you arrive. This place is a family-friendly haven that’s sure to create lasting memories for everyone!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rmkg3Cy1Y5sDp4US9

This state-of-the-art aquarium in Osaka offers a completely new way to experience marine life, combining interactive technology with traditional exhibits. The use of light, sound, and vibrant colors enhances the atmosphere, creating an immersive environment that makes you feel closer to the ocean world than ever before. A standout feature is the adorable penguins, who are the stars of the show and will melt your heart as you watch them up close. This one-of-a-kind experience is sure to leave you captivated and unwilling to leave!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rmkg3Cy1Y5sDp4US9

Located in EXPO CITY, this Ferris wheel is the tallest in Japan and ranks 5th in the world, standing at a towering 123 meters. Opened in 2016, it offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka from above, allowing you to see the city, the Expo'70 Commemorative Park (Bampaku Kinen-koen), and beyond. The ride becomes even more exhilarating with glass-floor gondolas, adding a thrilling element as you look straight down at the city below while enjoying the spectacular view. A visit to EXPO CITY wouldn’t be complete without taking a ride on this iconic Ferris wheel – it’s a must-do for any adventure lover!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hBvE6QoBfkHbFAZo8

For those who love animals, Tennoji Zoo is an essential stop in Osaka. Located on a 70-acre site next to the Shinsekai district, it is the third oldest zoo in Japan, home to around 1,500 animals from over 300 species. Here, you’ll find a variety of animals including lions, chimpanzees, the iconic kiwi bird of New Zealand, koalas, polar bears, and penguins. With such a diverse range of animals, you’ll be delighted by their cute and intelligent behaviors, and easily lose track of time as you enjoy their charm!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AdnN77n523EUSFw8A

HEP FIVE is a large shopping mall located in the Umeda area, with a giant Ferris wheel as part of the building on the top floor. The bright red Ferris wheel, standing at 106 meters tall, has become a symbol of the area. It is a popular attraction in Osaka, offering stunning panoramic views from above. On a clear day, you can even see the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in the distance.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kwe3J1i39s3Az9k98

The Instant Ramen Museum is a unique attraction in Osaka that not only showcases the long history of instant noodles from past to present, but also collects nearly every type of instant noodle from around the world. A key highlight is the creative activity where you can make your own cup noodles by choosing the soup base, seasonings, and toppings. You can also design and color your cup to make it a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Aside from learning about instant noodles, you'll have fun, stimulate your creativity, and even take home a personalized cup of noodles. Whether the taste of your custom creation is delicious or not is something you'll have to try for yourself!

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6mJnfNoHXkAMZrNU8

After enjoying some fun and excitement, it's time to take in the beauty of nature at Minoo Park, nestled in the picturesque Minoo Valley. This natural attraction in Osaka is known for its lush greenery and diverse ecosystem. It's especially popular in autumn when the leaves turn a unique blend of red and orange, offering a stunning view. In addition to the scenic beauty, you can also enjoy the Minoo Waterfall and visit the Insect Museum for an educational and interactive experience.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1cbGnhYk3NX5cv8q7

After enjoying the lush greenery of nature, don’t miss the beautiful Marble Beach in Osaka. This 900-meter-long beach, located opposite Kansai International Airport, has a unique charm as it is an artificial beach, not a natural one. The beach features white marble stones, which contrast beautifully with the clear blue sea. Not only will you enjoy the stunning beach views with airplanes taking off and landing in the background, but there's also an added bonus— you can swim in the sea without getting covered in sand! If you want to experience the waters of Japan, this Osaka attraction is a must-visit.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6EPMn6R1C5vt2dDZ8

One of the most magnificent architectural landmarks in Osaka is the Umeda Sky Building. Standing 173 meters tall in the Kita district, this iconic structure boasts a futuristic design with two towers connected at the 39th floor. The highlight of the building is the "Kuchu-Teien Observatory" on the 40th floor, offering stunning panoramic views of Osaka from its 170-meter-high rooftop. It's an amazing Osaka attraction where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city’s skyline and beyond.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Rq5vsHxN28nCRHV8

One of the most spectacular attractions in Osaka is Osaka Castle, a must-visit landmark that defines the city. The castle has eight floors, each featuring exhibitions and displays related to historical warfare, as well as models of the castle, samurai armor, swords, and figurines. Surrounding the castle is a beautiful public park and moat. Visitors can also purchase tickets for a boat ride to enjoy the scenic beauty of the castle from the water, available every day.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/krLPkgeYAJp6jZ5s9

The Osaka Mint Museum is an educational attraction dedicated to the history of Japanese currency, showcasing all types of money ever used in the country. Visitors can easily explore the museum with the help of an audio guide available in English, Korean, and Chinese. In addition, during the spring season, the museum hosts a cherry blossom festival, making it a great spot to enjoy beautiful sakura views as well. This is another must-visit spot in Osaka, combining both cultural learning and the beauty of nature.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Aa3J4TYkhQrjSB1D7

The number one landmark in Osaka is the famous Glico Sign in Dotonbori, a spot where everyone must stop and take a photo as a souvenir. This lively shopping district is filled with numerous restaurants and shops, offering a great place to indulge in food and shopping. One of the most popular activities here, apart from shopping, is taking a boat ride along the river to enjoy the vibrant view of the area in a relaxed atmosphere.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ssdjKZ9oge73vVFg9

The National Museum of Art, Osaka, is a place to explore over 8,000 pieces of contemporary art from around the world. The museum is notable for its unique exterior, featuring curving iron beams inspired by the principles of life and the growth of bamboo. It's definitely one of the must-visit attractions in Osaka for art lovers and those who appreciate innovative architecture.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/749LHakWazp2hnA16

For manga and anime enthusiasts, Osaka’s Nipponbashi, also known as "Den Den Town," is a dream destination. This area is packed with shops selling manga, anime merchandise, game discs, and model figures. You can even find limited edition, rare, and collectible items here, making it a paradise for collectors. It’s truly an otaku haven, and if you love Japanese pop culture, this is a must-visit spot in Osaka.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ogXckCpuuKvo9b6y8

Nakanoshima Park is Osaka's first public park, created in 1891, and is filled with numerous trees and flowers. Surrounded by rivers on both sides, it provides a peaceful and beautiful spot to relax and enjoy scenic views. Especially from May to October, the park is known for its stunning rose gardens, where vibrant roses bloom in full splendor. If you're visiting Osaka during this time, be sure to check out the beautiful roses in this park.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vB3GDHCQ5SWCWLGX7

Spa World Osaka is the perfect destination for both relaxation and fun. Not only does it feature a variety of onsen, swimming pools, and themed saunas to help you unwind, but it also has numerous amusement games and arcade machines to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a soothing bath or an exciting game, Spa World has something for everyone. If you're seeking a place to relax and have fun simultaneously, this is the spot for you.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uGD5uFodrEBGyqy59

The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living offers an insightful look into the city's history, showcasing a portion of residential life from the late Edo period. The museum displays the evolution of Osaka through different eras, including the Edo, Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods, right up to the present day. It's an excellent place to learn about local culture and history. History enthusiasts will definitely enjoy exploring this museum and discovering how Osaka has transformed over the centuries.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1NU6qUNZY3Etaa8e8

Suntory Yamazaki Distillery is a unique and lesser-known attraction in Osaka. As Japan's first malt whiskey distillery, it produces the famous Yamazaki whiskey, beloved by many in Japan. Visitors can take a guided tour through the distillery to learn about the production process, see the whiskey aging warehouses, and even sample the whiskey with complimentary snacks. If you're a whiskey enthusiast or enjoy alcoholic beverages, this is a must-visit spot.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kpnby4Pn2bggbsmYA

This large farm park in Osaka is a wonderful family-friendly destination, where you can enjoy beautiful blooming flowers and participate in various fun activities. Inside the park, there are hands-on experiences like baking bread, milking cows, and feeding animals such as capybaras, sheep, donkeys, and rabbits. Additionally, there’s a shop selling delicious homemade puddings that you can try. It's a great place to relax, have fun, and enjoy time with loved ones.

📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2RWUzCM3snt37TBz9

For your next trip to Osaka, you can easily book flights and find great deals through the Traveloka app, which helps you compare ticket prices and find the best promotions.

You can easily travel to Osaka from other regions in Japan via public transportation options, including:

Once in Osaka, the best ways to get around and visit various attractions are:

Whether by train, subway, bus, or taxi, getting around Osaka is easy, and you'll be able to reach all the exciting attractions with ease!

In Osaka, the official language is Japanese, and the local dialect (Osaka-ben) may sound a bit different from the standard Tokyo dialect. While some staff at popular tourist attractions may speak English, most people in Japan aren't fluent in English, so it's a good idea to learn a few basic Japanese phrases or use a translation app if needed.

The currency used in Osaka is the Japanese Yen (JPY), and you cannot use foreign currencies for purchases. Be sure to have yen on hand or use international credit cards that are widely accepted at most tourist spots and businesses.

Osaka is in the Japan Standard Time (JST) zone, which is GMT+9. This means Osaka is 2 hours ahead of Thailand. Be mindful of the time difference when planning your travels!

For those planning to visit Osaka, it's essential to consider the seasons to make sure you enjoy the best atmosphere suited to your preferences. Osaka experiences four distinct seasons:

By choosing the right season, you'll be able to enjoy Osaka’s attractions in the most pleasant conditions!