Overview

Osaka, Japan is a vibrant and bustling city known for its delicious street food, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment districts. Visitors can explore the iconic Osaka Castle, shop till they drop in the trendy Shinsaibashi shopping district, and sample local delicacies like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife scene, with countless bars, clubs, and karaoke joints to keep visitors entertained well into the night. With its unique blend of traditional culture and modern amenities, Osaka is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Japan.

Things to know about Osaka!

When is the best time to visit Osaka?

March

Cherry blossom season and pleasant weather

April

Cherry blossoms continue and spring festivals

May

Spring flowers and comfortable weather

What languages do they speak in Osaka?

JapanesePrimary

100 %

English30 %

Chinese10 %

Korean5 %

Portuguese2 %

Here are some useful words for Osaka

Eng word: Hello

Eng pronunciation: Konnichiwa

Local language: こんにちは

Eng word: Goodbye

Eng pronunciation: Sayōnara

Local language: さようなら

Eng word: Thank you

Eng pronunciation: Arigatō

Local language: ありがとう

Eng word: How much

Eng pronunciation: Ikura

Local language: いくら

Eng word: Toilet

Eng pronunciation: Toire

Local language: トイレ

Eng word: Help me

Eng pronunciation: Tasukete

Local language: 助けて

Eng word: Yes

Eng pronunciation: Hai

Local language: はい

Eng word: No

Eng pronunciation: Iie

Local language: いいえ

Eng word: Excuse me

Eng pronunciation: Sumimasen

Local language: すみません

Top historical facts about Osaka

Origin of the Name 'Osaka'

The name 'Osaka' means 'large hill' or 'large slope' in Japanese. It is believed that the name originated from the geographical characteristics of the area during ancient times.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of Japan's most famous landmarks. It was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583 as a display of power and to unite Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history.

Economic Hub

Since the Edo period (1603–1868), Osaka has been a major economic center of Japan. It was historically known as the 'nation's kitchen' because of its crucial role in rice trading and its vibrant merchant culture.

The Birthplace of Bunraku

Osaka is known as the birthplace of Bunraku, traditional Japanese puppet theater, which dates back to the 17th century. This form of narrative storytelling is accompanied by a shamisen and has been designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Osaka Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Passage

The Osaka Mint Bureau is famous for its cherry blossom passage, which opens to the public for one week each April. It features more than 100 varieties of cherry blossoms and attracts visitors from around the world.

Sumo Tradition in Osaka

Osaka has a long history with sumo wrestling, hosting annual tournaments that draw crowds from all over. The city's involvement with sumo dates back to the Edo period, emphasizing its significance in Japan's sporting culture.

Osakajo Hall

Osakajo Hall, situated within the Osaka Castle Park, is a renowned concert hall opened in 1983. It commemorates the 400th anniversary of Osaka Castle and hosts a wide range of events, showcasing the city's cultural diversity.

The Birth of Instant Ramen

Osaka is the birthplace of instant ramen, invented by Momofuku Ando in 1958. This innovation revolutionized the way people around the world eat and enjoy this quick, affordable meal.

Amerikamura

Amerikamura, often shortened to 'Amemura,' is a retail and entertainment area in Osaka known for its American-themed shops and restaurants. It reflects the post-war influence of American culture and is a popular spot among the youth.

What customs should I know whilst visiting Osaka?

Osaka Dialect (Osaka-ben)

Locals in Osaka often speak in a distinct dialect known as Osaka-ben, which has unique expressions and intonations. While standard Japanese is understood, using a few Osaka-ben phrases can endear you to the locals.

Kuidaore (Eat Until You Drop)

Osaka is known as the 'Nation's Kitchen,' and the local custom of kuidaore encourages people to indulge in the city's diverse and delicious food offerings. Don't be shy about trying multiple dishes and street foods.

Stand on the Right on Escalators

Unlike in Tokyo where people stand on the left, in Osaka, it is customary to stand on the right side of escalators to allow others to pass on the left.

Lively and Direct Communication

Osakans are known for their friendly, direct, and sometimes humorous way of speaking. Don't be surprised if locals engage you in lively conversation or make jokes; it's a part of their warm hospitality.

Tipping is Not Expected

In Osaka, as in the rest of Japan, tipping is not a common practice and can even be considered rude. Excellent service is standard, and a simple thank you is sufficient.

Osaka transportation information

How to travel around Osaka?

Train

The train system in Osaka is highly efficient and includes the JR lines, Osaka Metro, and private railways like Hankyu, Hanshin, and Keihan. The Osaka Metro is particularly useful for getting around the city center. The ICOCA card can be used for convenient, cashless travel on most trains and buses.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout Osaka. They can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked via phone or app. Taxis are a convenient but more expensive option compared to public transportation.

Ride Share

Ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Osaka, but they are not as prevalent as in some other countries. Local ride-sharing services such as JapanTaxi can also be used.

Bus

Osaka has an extensive bus network that covers areas not accessible by train. Buses are a cost-effective way to get around, and routes and schedules are available in English. The Osaka Amazing Pass offers unlimited bus and train rides for a set period.

Airlines flying to Osaka

All Nippon Airways (ANA)

ANA offers excellent service, comfortable seating, and a variety of in-flight entertainment options. They often have promotional packages that include discounted fares and additional baggage allowance.

Japan Airlines (JAL)

JAL is known for its top-notch service, spacious seating, and delicious in-flight meals. They frequently offer promotional fares and special deals for tourists.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines is renowned for its exceptional service, comfortable cabins, and extensive in-flight entertainment. They often have promotional packages that include discounted fares and additional amenities.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific offers great service, comfortable seating, and a wide range of in-flight entertainment options. They frequently have promotional fares and special deals for tourists.

How to get to my hotel from the airport?

Train

The train is a convenient and efficient way to travel from the airport to the main area in Osaka. The Kansai Airport Express train operates regularly and can take you to major train stations in the city. From there, you can easily transfer to other train lines to reach your final destination.

Taxi

Taking a taxi is the most convenient option to get to the main area from the airport in Osaka. Taxis are readily available outside the airport and can take you directly to your destination. However, it can be expensive compared to other options.

Ride Share

Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available in Osaka and can be a more affordable option compared to taxis. You can book a ride through the app and be picked up at the designated area outside the airport.

Airport Shuttle Bus

The airport shuttle bus is a cost-effective option to get to the main area from the airport. These buses operate at regular intervals and make stops at popular locations in the city. It may take longer than a taxi or train, but it is a budget-friendly choice.

Useful tips for Osaka

Important apps to enhance your experience in Osaka

Hyperdia

Japan Travel by NAVITIME

Osaka Metro Map and Route Planner

Gurunavi - Restaurant Finder

Available payment methods in Osaka

Alternative payment

IC cards such as ICOCA, Suica, and PASMO are widely used for public transportation and can also be used for purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and some retail shops. These cards can be recharged at train stations and convenience stores.

Cash

Japanese Yen (JPY) is the accepted currency. Cash is widely used and accepted in most places, including small shops and restaurants. ATMs are available throughout the city, and many accept international cards.

Credit/Debit Cards

Major credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and JCB are widely accepted in hotels, department stores, and larger restaurants. However, smaller establishments may only accept cash.

Mobile Wallet

Popular mobile wallet options include Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. Additionally, local mobile payment services like PayPay, LINE Pay, and Rakuten Pay are commonly used and accepted in many stores and restaurants.

What Power Adapter to use in Osaka?

In Osaka, the most common Power Adaptor is Type A, Type B.

Best prepaid SIM cards for tourists

NTT Docomo

NTT Docomo is one of Japan's largest telecom service providers. Tourists can purchase NTT Docomo SIM cards at Kansai International Airport (KIX), major electronic stores in Osaka, or Docomo shops scattered throughout the city.

Go to Website

SoftBank

SoftBank offers a range of SIM cards suitable for short and long-term stays. Their Tourist SIM can be purchased at Kansai International Airport, SoftBank stores in Osaka, and various electronics outlets.

Go to Website

au by KDDI

au offers visitors prepaid SIM cards, available at Kansai International Airport and au shops in Osaka. They provide competitive data plans for tourists.

Go to Website

Where can I store my luggage in Osaka?

Kansai International Airport

Various providers available throughout the airport

Price not specified

Opening hours: throughout the airport, Prices range from 300 to 800 yen per day depending on the size of the locker

Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport)

Lockers available near the arrival lobby and departure lobby

Location not specified

300 yen for small lockers and go up to 800 yen for larger lockers

Opening hours: near the arrival lobby and departure lobby

Osaka Station

Lockers available on the 1st and 3rd floors of the station

Location not specified

Price not specified

Opening hours: on the 1st and 3rd floors of the station

All about food in Osaka

Popular dishes to try in Osaka

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with a batter of flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and various i…

Takoyaki

A popular street food in Osaka, takoyaki are savory octopus balls made with a bat…

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables coated in breadcrumbs, served w…

Yakitori

Grilled skewers of bite-sized pieces of chicken, seasoned with salt or a sweet so…

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

Gifts to buy whilst in Osaka

Osaka Castle Souvenirs

Takoyaki-themed Items

Kuidaore Taro Merchandise

Osaka-themed T-shirts

551 Horai Pork Buns

Glico Man Memorabilia

Osaka-style Okonomiyaki Sauce

Naniwa Sweets

What to See & Do in Osaka?

Recommended areas to stay in Osaka

Dotonbori

Dotonbori is a popular entertainment district known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining options. Visitors can enjoy exploring the bustling streets lined with neon lights, trying local street food, and shopping for souvenirs. The area is also home to iconic landmarks such as the Glico Running Man sign and the Ebisu Bridge.

Namba

Namba is another bustling district in Osaka known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the lively streets filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Namba is also home to attractions such as the Tsutenkaku Tower, Namba Parks, and the Namba Grand Kagetsu theater.

Umeda

Umeda is a major commercial and transportation hub in Osaka, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the bustling streets lined with department stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Umeda is also home to iconic landmarks such as the Umeda Sky Building and the HEP Five Ferris wheel.

Popular areas to visit in Osaka

Dotonbori

Dotonbori is a popular entertainment district known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and iconic neon signs. Visitors can enjoy delicious street food, explore the bustling streets lined with shops and restaurants, and take a boat ride along the Dotonbori River.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is a historic landmark and one of Japan's most famous castles. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, learn about its rich history at the museum, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the castle tower.

Shinsaibashi

Shinsaibashi is a bustling shopping district in Osaka known for its trendy boutiques, department stores, and street performers. Visitors can shop for the latest fashion trends, sample delicious local cuisine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this popular area.

Where should I go after Osaka?

Nara

Nara is known for its historic temples and friendly deer that roam Nara Park. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture and history.

Kobe

Kobe is famous for its beef,scenic harbor views,and the beautiful Mount Rokko. It's a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city of peace and history,known for the Peace Memorial Park and Museum,as well as the nearby Miyajima Island with its iconic floating torii gate.

Help and Safety Information for Osaka

Important contact numbers for Osaka

072-455-2500

Osaka International Airport Information Center

06-6773-2333

Osaka Tourist Information Center

06-6941-0110

Tourist Police

Scam awareness

Bar and Nightclub Scams

Tourists are lured into bars or nightclubs with promises of cheap drinks or no cover charge, only to be presented with an exorbitant bill at the end of the night.

Fake Goods

Tourists may be sold counterfeit goods, such as branded clothing or electronics, at prices that seem too good to be true.

Fake Monks

Individuals dressed as monks approach tourists, offering 'free' blessings or trinkets, then demand a donation or payment.

Pickpocketing

Tourists are targeted in crowded areas, such as train stations and popular tourist spots, by pickpockets who take advantage of distractions.

Restaurant Scams

Some restaurants may not display prices clearly and then charge tourists significantly more than locals for the same dishes.

Bar and Nightclub Scams

Fake Goods

Fake Monks

Pickpocketing

Restaurant Scams

Street Gambling

Taxi Overcharging

Rules for smoking, vaping & drugs for Osaka

drugs

Japan has very strict drug laws, and this includes Osaka. The possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs is severely punished, with potential penalties including long prison sentences and heavy fines. Even some over-the-counter medications that are legal in other countries may be restricted or prohibited in Japan. Tourists should ensure they are not carrying any substances that are illegal in Japan and should consult with Japanese customs or their embassy if they have any doubts.

smoking

In Osaka, smoking is generally prohibited in many public places, including streets, parks, and public transportation areas. Designated smoking areas are available and should be used. Many restaurants and bars have separate smoking and non-smoking sections, but it's always best to check for specific rules at each establishment. Violating smoking regulations can result in fines.

vaping

Vaping is subject to similar regulations as smoking in Osaka. It is prohibited in many public areas, and users should look for designated vaping areas. The same rules that apply to smoking in restaurants, bars, and other establishments typically apply to vaping as well. Always check for specific rules at each location.

What are other people saying about Osaka?

Osaka

Overview

We are reviewing this city information

Things to know about Osaka!

When is the best time to visit Osaka?

What languages do they speak in Osaka?

Here are some useful words for Osaka

Top historical facts about Osaka

Origin of the Name 'Osaka'

Osaka Castle

Economic Hub

The Birthplace of Bunraku

Osaka Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Passage

Sumo Tradition in Osaka

Osakajo Hall

The Birth of Instant Ramen

Amerikamura

What customs should I know whilst visiting Osaka?

Osaka transportation information

How to travel around Osaka?

Airlines flying to Osaka

How to get to my hotel from the airport?

Useful tips for Osaka

Important apps to enhance your experience in Osaka

Available payment methods in Osaka

Alternative payment

Cash

Credit/Debit Cards

Mobile Wallet

What Power Adapter to use in Osaka?

Best prepaid SIM cards for tourists

NTT Docomo

SoftBank

au by KDDI

Where can I store my luggage in Osaka?

All about food in Osaka

Popular dishes to try in Osaka

Okonomiyaki

Takoyaki

Kushikatsu

Yakitori

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

Gifts to buy whilst in Osaka

What to See & Do in Osaka?

Recommended areas to stay in Osaka

Popular areas to visit in Osaka

Where should I go after Osaka?

Nara

Kobe

Hiroshima

Help and Safety Information for Osaka

Important contact numbers for Osaka

Scam awareness

Rules for smoking, vaping & drugs for Osaka

What are other people saying about Osaka?

Recent Social posts about Osaka

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