What Are the Top Things to Do in Osaka

The charming Japanese city of Osaka offers many enthralling experiences for the discerning traveller looking for rewarding adventures. Although Osaka may sometimes not be counted among Japan’s most touristy cities, it will still present many interesting things to see and do. Here, you will have the opportunity to tour captivating temples, savour the local cuisine, experience lively markets and more. Some of the best things to do in this city are described below.

Visit Osaka Castle 

Undoubtedly, Osaka Castle would be regarded as one of the city’s most popular and prominent sightseeing attractions. This impressive edifice also inherits an engrossing history having played an important role in Japan’s unification in the 16th century. However, the striking structure that you see here today actually dates mainly to 1931 when the castle was rebuilt. Another marvellous experience that you could enjoy at Osaka Castle is dressing up in traditional Japanese clothes; you will have the opportunity to be photographed whilst being attired in these eye-catching clothes which will make for truly unique holiday memories.

Feast on street food at Dotonbori 

Food lovers visiting Osaka will be enthralled by the distinctive Dotonbori district. Whilst this locality also features appealing entertainment options and other attractions, your visit to Osaka wouldn’t be complete without trying out the delectable foods available here. In this district, you could enjoy typical Japanese favourites like takoyaki, yakitori and ramen, as well as more unusual specialities such as grilled octopus. This locality will be particularly alluring after sunset when the prominent signs and neon lights are illuminated. Irrespective of whether you desire to dine on prime beef, pufferfish or crab you won’t be disappointed at Dotonbori!

Tour Shinsekai 

During your stay in Osaka, you may choose to explore the district known as Shinsekai which happens to be one of the city’s most popular localities. This district is noted for its retro ambience and sightseeing attractions. Here, you may take the opportunity to take in the sight of the distinctive Tutenkaku Tower which draws inspiration from the Eiffel Tower and may be regarded as a proud symbol of the city. Another great experience here is savouring some kushikatsu, a dish that usually consists of fried skewered meat with vegetables. 

Drive a go-kart in fancy dress 

A rather offbeat but enjoyable thing to do during your visit to Osaka would be to drive through the city streets in a go-kart; however, the fun doesn’t end there as you would enjoy this experience dressed as your favourite anime or video game character! If you desire to take part in this one-of-a-kind experience, you will be given a quick safety briefing, following which, you can put on your costume and head out onto the streets on a fun adventure. Suffice it to say, that such novel, guided tours provide a truly memorable escapade.

Shop at Kuromon Ichiba Market 

If you have a liking for appealing markets you should undoubtedly take the opportunity to visit Osaka’s lively Kuromon Ichiba Market. This site happens to be the place where the city’s well-known chefs as well as its other residents purchase their day-to-day food supplies. Whilst this market is best known for fresh fish as well as live seafood, shoppers will also find freshly obtained vegetables, fruits, dried fish, meat, confectionery and pickles here. One of the hotels in Osaka Japan to consider from which you could easily visit this market is Travelodge Honmachi Osaka. 

Experience Sumiyoshi Shrine 

If you appreciate captivating religious attractions, you should undoubtedly take the opportunity to head to the Sumiyoshi Shrine during your stay in this city. This place of worship happens to be one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. As you might expect, paying a visit to this shrine will be an enlightening and tranquil experience. An interesting attraction located within the grounds of this temple is the eye-catching red Sorihashi Bridge which adds to the site's appeal.