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Japan travel: 10 things to do in Osaka

Lim Yian Lu

·Contributor

Updated 11 April 2023 at 10:34 pm·2-min read

Dotonbori shopping street in Osaka, Japan. (Photo: Getty)

Previously, we spoke about 15 things you can do in Tokyo, which lies in the Kanto region of Japan. So, how about its opposite, the Kansai region, particularly Osaka?

Personally, I prefer to visit Osaka, which still has the city vibes like in Tokyo, but is not as fast-paced. The people there generally seemed more friendly too.

Besides, most of your shopping can be done in just two areas — Dotonbori area and Umeda area — as compared to multiple locations in Tokyo — Shibuya, Ginza, Ikebukuro, just to name a few. This leaves you with more time to do some sightseeing or even have a day trip to nearby areas like Kyoto, Nara and Kobe.

If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, or thinking of visiting somewhere in Japan that is not Tokyo, here are 10 things you can do in Osaka.

READ MORE:

Japan travel: 15 things to do in Kyoto

Japan travel: 15 things to do in Tokyo

Japan travel: 13 things to do in Hokkaido

12 luxurious hotel pools to add to your travel bucket list

Less-travelled destinations to consider for a wintry holiday

1. Visit Universal Studios Osaka

Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass, from S$82.89

Universal Studios Japan Express Pass 7, S$181.09

Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass. (Photo: Klook SG)

2. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city at Umeda Sky Building, Abeno Harukas or Osaka Tsutenkaku Tower

Umeda Sky Building & Kuchu Teien Observatory Ticket in Osaka, from S$15.29

Umeda Sky Building & Kuchu Teien Observatory Ticket in Osaka. (Photo: Klook SG)

HARUKAS 300 Observatory E-Ticket, S$5.09

HARUKAS 300 Observatory E-Ticket. (Photo: Klook SG)

Osaka Tsutenkaku Tower Admission Ticket, S$7.89 (was S$8.89)

Osaka Tsutenkaku Tower Admission Ticket. (Photo: Klook SG)

3. Immerse yourself in teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka

teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Ticket, S$16.29

teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Ticket. (Photo: Klook SG)

4. Bring your kids to Legoland Discovery Center Osaka

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka Admission Ticket, from S$21.95

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka Admission Ticket. (Photo: Klook SG)

5. Explore Osaka’s shopping streets in a kimono

Kireikan Kimono Rental in Osaka, S$43.89

Kireikan Kimono Rental in Osaka. (Photo: Klook SG)

6. Let your kids go wild at Little Planet Lalaport Izumi

Little Planet Lalaport Izumi Ticket in Osaka, from S$6.99 (was S$7.99)

Little Planet Lalaport Izumi Ticket in Osaka. (Photo: Klook SG)

7. Hop on the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Admission Ticket in Umeda, S$5.95

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Admission Ticket in Umeda. (Photo: Klook SG)

8. Discover Osaka from a different perspective on a cruise

City Cruise Experience in Osaka, S$54.25

City Cruise Experience in Osaka. (Photo: Klook SG)

9. Experience the profound history of Osaka at Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle Gozabune Boat Ticket, S$14.79

Osaka Castle Gozabune Boat Ticket. (Photo: Klook SG)

Osaka Amazing Pass (Osaka Pick Up), from S$19.95

Osaka Amazing Pass (Osaka Pick Up). (Photo: Klook SG)

10. Take a day trip to Kyoto, Nara and/or Kobe

Kansai Thru Pass (2 or 3 Days), from S$43.69

Kansai Thru Pass (2 or 3 Days). (Photo: Klook SG)

Arima Onsen Taikou-no-yu Package Tickets with Hankyu or Hanshin Ver. Railway Pass, from S$26.15

Arima Onsen Taikou-no-yu Package Tickets with Hankyu or Hanshin Ver. Railway Pass. (Photo: Klook SG)

Travelling to multiple countries in a set period of time? Check out this Global Data plan that covers up to 87 countries with a single card! Use code YAHOO10 to get 10 per cent off your data plan with Airalo. Full terms and conditions here.

Check out the full range of eSims and data plans for travel available on these sites: Airalo | Klook

Check airfare here: Skyscanner | Trip.com Book accommodations and activities here: Agoda | Booking.com | Klook | KKday | HotelsCombined General info here: Tripadvisor

And while you are at it, be sure to get your travel insurance!

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