Things to do in Osaka, Japan in 2023

Want to get to know one of the most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities in Japan? Osaka has a lot to offer, from traditional wooden houses to massive modern skyscrapers. There are many things to do in Osaka, like going to the theme parks, visiting the shopping district, and even getting to know the traditional puppet theaters. Get around on easy transportation and discover the thrill of an entirely new world with us!

Osaka is a much more hustle-bustle city compared to other places like Kyoto. With all the diversity, entertainment and adventure available, you definitely won’t end up bored. One thing to keep in mind for sure is how you’ll get around without knowing the language and not being able to read the signs. This means that you’ll unquestionably need a reliable and stable internet connection. Get your eSIM online and as easy as 1,2,3! You won’t have any issues nor headaches, and you’ll be able to enjoy your adventure to the fullest.

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios y synonym of having a blast. Ride on the huge and exciting roller coaster and experience the wonders of this theme park with your friends and family. Spend you say trying all the attractions and food stands, enjoying this spectacular world with your favorite characters. Remember to get a map to guide you around the park. Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing, take some water to stay hydrated and most importantly, have fun!

Hours and Tickets

The park hours are from 9AM to 9PM and the one-day pass tickets price range from ¥8,600 for adults, ¥5,600 for children and ¥7,700 for seniors. For a two day-pass ticket prices are ¥16,300 for adults and ¥10,600 for children. Finally, the one day and a half pass costs ¥13,100 for adults and ¥8600 for children.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Japan where you’ll be able to go inside the Hogwarts castle, explore the rooms and corridors and even get to know the Hogwarts express! Be curious in the Hogsmeade, the small town where the wizards live and find a large variety of shops for the students of the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Who knows…you may even become a wizard yourself!

Super Nintendo World

As Japan is the home of Nintendo, one of the things that you have to do in Osaka, at Universal Studios is going to the Super Mario World. Immerse yourself in the childhood game of jumping over turtles, hitting blocks for powers and tokens. Meet your favorite Super Mario characters, try out the food at Knipio’s Café or go shopping at the 1-Up Factory! One thing to keep in mind with this particular attraction is that an area timed entry ticket with advanced booking is required. Find out more on their website!

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the city’s most popular attractions, renowned for its impressive size and diverse marine life. Located in the Osaka Bay Area, this world-class aquarium offers a fascinating journey through the depths of the ocean, allowing visitors to explore various aquatic habitats and encounter a wide range of captivating marine species.

Hours and Tickets

From May 1st – May 2nd – 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

May 3rd – May 6th – 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

During May 7th – May 31st: Monday – 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday – 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Weekends and holidays – 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Admission Fees

• Adults (16 years old and above): 2,700 yen
• Children (7 to 15 years old): 1,400 yen
• Children (3 to 6 years old): 700 yen
• Infants (2 years old and below): Free

Spectacular Exhibits

The aquarium features a series of expansive tanks and exhibits, each designed to replicate different marine environments from around the world. One of the main attractions is the Pacific Ocean tank, which holds over 5,400 tons of water and showcases a mesmerizing array of marine creatures, including whale sharks, manta rays, and schools of vibrant fish. As you walk through the tunnel, you’ll feel like you’re submerged in the ocean, surrounded by these majestic creatures.

Interactive Touch Pools

For a more hands-on experience, the aquarium offers interactive touch pools where visitors can touch and learn about various marine animals such as stingrays and starfish. It’s a great opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures and gain a more profound understanding of their unique characteristics.

Animal Feeding Sessions

Witnessing feeding sessions at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is an absolute treat. Check the daily schedule to catch feeding times for different species, including penguins, sea otters, and dolphins. Watching the animals eagerly devour their meals provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

Kuromon Market

The Osaka Kuromon Market, also known as “Naniwa no Daidokoro,” is a vibrant and bustling marketplace located in the Chuo Ward and clearly something else to do when you’re in Osaka. With a history spanning over 190 years, it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, street food, and unique culinary experiences. Let’s dive into what makes the Osaka Kuromon Market a must-visit attraction:

Fresh Seafood and Local Produce

The market is renowned for its wide selection of fresh seafood, making it a paradise for seafood lovers. You’ll find an impressive array of fish, shellfish, and other seafood delicacies, including sushi-grade tuna, succulent oysters, and vibrant shrimp. Additionally, the market offers a variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other local produce, showcasing the best flavors of the region.

Unique Culinary Experiences

Beyond the street food, the Osaka Kuromon Market provides opportunities for unique culinary experiences. You can find shops offering cooking demonstrations, where you can witness the preparation of traditional dishes like fugu (pufferfish) or taste rare delicacies like uni (sea urchin). Some shops even offer interactive experiences where you can try your hand at making sushi or takoyaki under the guidance of skilled chefs.

Cultural Immersion

Get a glimpse into Osaka’s local food culture and the chance to interact with friendly vendors who are passionate about their products. Engaging with the stall owners and learning about their culinary traditions can deepen your understanding of Japanese cuisine and its significance in daily life.

National Bunraku Theater

History and Significance

The National Bunraku Theater has a rich history that dates back to 1984 when it was established with the aim of preserving and promoting Bunraku. It serves as the primary venue for Bunraku performances in Japan and is recognized as a national treasure. Bunraku itself has a history spanning several centuries and is deeply rooted in Japanese cultural traditions.

Performances

The National Bunraku Theater showcases regular performances of Bunraku throughout the year, offering audiences an opportunity to experience this traditional art form firsthand. Bunraku performances typically consist of three main elements: the puppets, the puppeteers, and the narrators. Skilled puppeteers manipulate large puppets while expert narrators recite the story accompanied by traditional music played on shamisen, a three-stringed musical instrument.

Accessibility

The National Bunraku Theater welcomes both domestic and international visitors. English audio guides and subtitles are often available to provide a better understanding of the performances for non-Japanese speakers. Beforhand ticket reservations are recommended due to the popularity of Bunraku performances.

Travel Advice to Osaka

Check the following travel advice before parting to Osaka. Make sure to check the visa requirements for your country. Most visitors can enter Japan under a tourist visa exemption for a specified period and ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

The best time to visit Osaka is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant. Additionally, the city has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including trains, subways, and buses. Consider purchasing a tourist card for seamless travel across different modes of transportation.

Familiarize yourself with some basic Japanese etiquette to show respect for local customs. For example, it’s customary to bow when greeting someone, remove your shoes when entering homes or certain establishments, and be mindful of noise levels in public spaces.

Finally, our last recommendation is to make sure that you’re connected to the internet while you’re traveling. The Holafly eSIM card for Japan offers all the best perks and benefits for you to travel worry-free. Thanks to the eSIMs’ multi-device support and user-friendly experience, you can easily buy your eSIM online as easily as a, b, c, scan, and activate your data plan in Osaka. Go to the Holafly website now to find out more!