Discover Osaka in Half a Day: 5 Unforgettable Itineraries
Do you think "One day isn't enough for sightseeing in Osaka!"? It's true that you need a full day if you're going to USJ, but you can actually experience the essence of Osaka in just half a day.
When I guide my local friends, it's mostly a half-day itinerary. That's because Osaka's attractions are surprisingly compact.
In this article, I'll introduce 5 efficient and fun half-day itineraries that I've discovered through multiple walks. Each itinerary is packed with Osaka's charms, so if you want to enjoy Osaka in a short time, please use this article as a reference!
Looking to explore Osaka? Our Osaka Guide covers the entire area, while our One-Day Trip Guide is perfect for those wanting to experience the best of Osaka in a day.
Table of Contents
・Can Osaka Be Enjoyed in Half a Day?
・Tips for a Half-Day Trip in Osaka
・Itinerary 1: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori Recommended for Beginners
・Itinerary 2: Enjoying Retro Osaka in Shinsekai
・Itinerary 3: Shinsaibashi & Namba Gourmet Tour
・Itinerary 4: Enjoying Nature at Expo '70 Commemorative Park
・Itinerary 5: Enjoying Osaka's Sea at the Bay Area
・Recommended Spots in Osaka After Your Half-Day Trip
・Recommended Tours in Osaka
・Frequently Asked Questions
Can Osaka Be Enjoyed in Half a Day?
The first thing that surprised me when I moved to Osaka was the efficiency of this city. The main tourist spots are close to each other, and there are delicious gourmet spots everywhere.
Moreover, transportation is very convenient, and you can visit many places in a short time using the subway and buses. In other words, you can fully enjoy the charms of Osaka even in half a day.
Living in Osaka for 10 years, I've guided many friends and family members by taking advantage of this city's efficiency. Using that experience, I'll introduce tips for enjoying Osaka in half a day and recommended itineraries from here on.
Tips for a Half-Day Trip in Osaka
In this section, I'll introduce tips for making your half-day trip in Osaka successful.
Buy a One-Day Subway Pass to Enjoy Osaka City
If you want to efficiently tour Osaka, I recommend the one-day subway pass. I always purchase this when guiding friends. That's because most of Osaka's famous spots can be reached by subway.
Using a one-day pass allows you to get on and off freely, making it efficient both economically and time-wise. For example, you can move from Osaka Castle to Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, and even Shinsekai, all by subway.
If you plan to enjoy Osaka city before and after the model itineraries I'm about to introduce, it's worth buying a one-day subway pass.
Website: https://subway.osakametro.co.jp/en/guide/page/enjoy-eco.php
Visit Shopping Streets During the Day
One of Osaka's charms is its lively shopping streets. Especially, traditional markets like Kuromon Market are not to be missed. However, the important thing here is the time of visit.
When I first guided a friend, we went to Kuromon Market at night and were disappointed to see most shops closed. Since then, I always make sure to visit shopping streets and markets during the day.
Many shopping streets and markets close down at night. If you want to experience the lively atmosphere of Osaka, I recommend visiting during the day. Especially, Kuromon Market is most lively from morning to noon, perfect for enjoying fresh ingredients and Osaka specialties.
Itinerary 1: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori Recommended for Beginners
For those visiting Osaka for the first time, I recommend this itinerary. This itinerary, which covers Osaka Castle and Dotonbori, two major tourist spots in Osaka, is the best course to experience both Osaka's history and modern bustle at once.
Itinerary Overview
・Order of movement: Osaka Castle Park → Dotonbori → Ebisu Bridge
・Time required: About 4 hours
・Main mode of transportation: Subway, walking
・Recommended seasons: Spring (cherry blossoms), Autumn (fall foliage)
This itinerary is packed with Osaka's charms and can be covered efficiently, so it's been very popular with my friends from overseas.
Access to Osaka Castle & Dotonbori Area
Osaka Castle Park is most conveniently accessed from JR Osaka Loop Line's "Osakajokoen Station". I always use this station. However, you can also access it from Osaka Metro Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line's Osaka Business Park Station or Chuo Line's Morinomiya Station.
To move from Osaka Castle to Dotonbori, I recommend taking the subway Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line from Morinomiya Station or Osaka Business Park Station to Shinsaibashi Station. It takes about 15 minutes and is convenient as there's no need to transfer.
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is a famous castle and a symbol of Osaka. I always come here every year when spring arrives. Especially in April, Osaka Castle during the spring cherry blossom season is truly beautiful.
When you climb up to the castle tower, a panoramic view of Osaka city spreads out before you. The 360-degree panoramic view is breathtaking, especially the view at dusk is unforgettable. The exhibits inside the castle tower are also extensive, making it ideal for learning about Osaka's history.
Also, you can enjoy seasonal flowers in the vast park. There's beauty in every season, with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage in fall.
Find out more about this location in our Osaka Castle Guide.
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is the center of Osaka's "Minami" (South) area, as opposed to "Kita" (North), and is a symbol of Osaka's food culture and bustle. Whenever I come here, I'm always overwhelmed by Osaka's energy.
The giant signboards and neon signs are impressive, but Dotonbori is all about food. You can taste Osaka specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki everywhere.
Walking along the Dotonbori River is also enjoyable. Especially at night, the illuminated signs and bridges reflected on the water surface create a fantastic atmosphere. I often walk here after work to refresh myself.
And don't forget the Glico sign. Taking a commemorative photo in front of this sign, which could be called a symbol of Osaka, has become a standard part of Osaka sightseeing. I take a photo here every time a friend visits.
Shopping in the surrounding shopping streets is also fun. Especially, Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street has everything from fashion items to Osaka souvenirs. I often shop here too.
Our Dotonbori Guide offers comprehensive coverage of local dining options and tourist attractions in the area.
Itinerary 2: Enjoying Retro Osaka in Shinsekai
Shinsekai is an area that strongly retains Osaka's downtown culture, and it's one of the places that fascinated me most when I moved to Osaka.
Itinerary Overview
・Order of movement: Tsutenkaku → Jan Jan Yokocho → Shinsekai Shopping Street
・Time required: About 3 hours
・Main mode of transportation: Subway, walking
・Recommended seasons: All year round
This itinerary is recommended for those who want to feel Osaka's common people's culture.
Access to Shinsekai Area
For the Shinsekai area, I most recommend getting off at "Dobutsuen-mae Station" on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line. I always use this station.
Tsutenkaku
Tsutenkaku is famous as Osaka's symbol tower. When I first visited, I was surprised by its unique shape. I heard it's modeled after the Eiffel Tower, but it has a uniqueness that's very Osaka-like.
The view from the observation deck is breathtaking. You can see a 360-degree view of Osaka's cityscape, and on a clear day, you can even see as far as Kyoto and Kobe.
There's a character called "Billiken-san", the god of good luck, at the observation deck. It's said that rubbing the soles of his feet will make your wish come true, and I made a wish when I moved to Osaka.
Website: https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/
Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Street
The Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Street that spreads out in front of Tsutenkaku is the central street of Shinsekai. Even now when I visit here, I'm overwhelmed by its energy and bustle.
What you absolutely can't miss on this street is Shinsekai's specialty, kushikatsu. My recommendation is an old kushikatsu shop called "Daruma". The combination of the crispy batter and tender meat is superb, and you'll definitely get hooked once you try it. However, be careful not to double-dip the sauce.
Also, colorful signboards line the street, creating many photogenic spots. Especially at night, neon signs start to shine, creating an atmosphere like a movie set. I often take photos here when guiding friends.
Website: https://tsutenkaku-hondori.com/
Jan Jan Yokocho
Jan Jan Yokocho is an alley with a particularly retro atmosphere in Shinsekai. When I first walked here, I was fascinated by its unique atmosphere.
The retro signs lining the narrow alley, the lively voices echoing in the alley, and the drifting aroma of food create a place that condenses the atmosphere of Osaka's downtown.
The name "Jan Jan" comes from the sound of shamisen that used to echo in this area. Even now, that lively atmosphere remains.
My recommendation here is to enter a local izakaya. However, it can get a bit noisy late at night, so if you want to enjoy a quiet atmosphere, I recommend visiting from evening to early night.
To learn more about the areas covered in this model course, please check out our Shinsekai Guide and the Jan Jan Yokocho Guide.
Itinerary 3: Shinsaibashi & Namba Gourmet Tour
The Shinsaibashi-Namba area is the center of Osaka's "Minami" area and a mecca for shopping and gourmet food. It's one of the places I visit most frequently since moving to Osaka, and even now, my feet naturally lead me there on weekends.
Itinerary Overview
・Order of movement: Shinsaibashi → Dotonbori → Kuromon Market
・Time required: About 4 hours
・Main mode of transportation: Walking
・Recommended seasons: All year round
This itinerary is packed with Osaka's charms, allowing you to fully enjoy Osaka's "food" and "shopping".
Access to Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori Area
For this area, it's most convenient to get off at "Shinsaibashi Station" on the subway Midosuji Line. I always use this station. As soon as you exit the station, the lively Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street spreads out before you.
Dotonbori is reached by walking south along Shinsaibashi Shopping Street. It's about a 10-15 minute walk, but if you enjoy the bustle of the shopping street along the way, you'll arrive before you know it.
Shinsaibashi
Shinsaibashi is Osaka's premier commercial district.
Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street has a wide variety of shops, from fashion brand stores to local shops. A wide range of products are available, from the Daimaru department store handling luxury brands to trendy shops for young people.
What's notable is that this shopping street is an arcade. You can comfortably stroll even on rainy days, so you can enjoy shopping without worrying about the weather.
Also, Shinsaibashi is known as the center of Osaka's youth culture. You can feel the latest trends and fashion, and experience Osaka's "now". Just walking down the street, you can feel Osaka's vitality and energy.
For details about this landmark Osaka thoroughfare, check out our guide to Shinsaibashi Shopping Street.
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is the center of Osaka's food culture. Its bustle and energy make my heart leap every time I visit, even though I live in Osaka.
First, when you come to Dotonbori, you can't miss taking a commemorative photo in front of the Glico sign. This sign is one of Osaka's symbols, and I always take a photo here whenever friends visit Osaka. It's standard to pose for a photo with the sign.
The charm of Dotonbori is undoubtedly its "food". Osaka specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu are all lined up.
Also, Dotonbori becomes even more lively at night. The neon signs start to shine, creating an atmosphere that feels like a different world. I recommend taking a stroll along the river and enjoying the night view.
However, it's very crowded, so be careful of pickpockets. When I guide friends from overseas, I always make sure to warn them about this. Be sure to take good care of your valuables.
Kuromon Market
Kuromon Market, about a 10-minute walk from Dotonbori, is called Osaka's kitchen.
As you walk through the market, you'll see fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, and Osaka specialties crammed together. The seafood bowl, in particular, is exquisite.
The charm of Kuromon Market lies in "food hopping". It's fun to taste Osaka specialties like takoyaki bit by bit. When I guide friends, I always do a food hopping tour.
However, Kuromon Market is busiest around noon. Many shops close early at night, so I recommend visiting in the morning or early afternoon.
For more information about the food at this market and nearby attractions, please check out our Kuromon Market Guide.
Kuromon Market Official Website: https://kuromon.com/en/
Itinerary 4: Enjoying Nature at Expo '70 Commemorative Park
For those who want to enjoy lush nature away from Osaka's urban areas, I recommend Expo '70 Commemorative Park. Since moving to Osaka, I often visit here when I want to refresh myself.
Within the vast park, there's a beautiful Japanese garden and various facilities, making it a place you can thoroughly enjoy even in half a day.
Itinerary Overview
・Order of movement: Expo '70 Commemorative Park → Tower of the Sun → EXPOCITY
・Time required: About 5 hours
・Main mode of transportation: Monorail, walking
・Recommended seasons: Spring (cherry blossoms), Autumn (fall foliage)
This itinerary is rich in variety, allowing you to enjoy nature and the latest entertainment at once.
Access to Expo '70 Commemorative Park Area
To reach Expo '70 Commemorative Park, get off at "Bampaku-kinen-koen Station" on the Osaka Monorail and it's a short walk from there.
When moving from central Osaka, I recommend taking the Midosuji Line to Senri-Chuo Station, then transferring to the monorail.
Expo '70 Commemorative Park
Expo '70 Commemorative Park was created using the site of the 1970 Osaka Expo. When I first visited here, I was surprised by its vastness and beauty. It's a wonderful place where you can relax surrounded by greenery, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
In the park, you can enjoy seasonal flowers and autumn foliage. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage are particularly spectacular, attracting many people every year.
The "Tower of the Sun" standing in the center of the park is a symbol of Expo '70 Commemorative Park. When I first saw this tower with its unique design, a work by artist Taro Okamoto, I was overwhelmed by its unique shape.
The 70-meter-tall giant tower shows different expressions on its front, back, and sides, which is interesting as the impression changes depending on the viewing angle. There's actually a "back face" too, so be sure to see it in person.
Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/languages/english/
EXPOCITY
EXPOCITY is the latest entertainment facility adjacent to Expo '70 Commemorative Park.
In addition to enjoying shopping at the large shopping mall, I also recommend "Nifrel", an aquarium within EXPOCITY. It features exhibits that are a bit different from ordinary aquariums, fused with art.
And a big feature of EXPOCITY is the large Ferris wheel "OSAKA WHEEL". I always ride this when guiding friends. On a clear day, you can overlook the cityscape of Osaka, and the view at dusk is especially spectacular. At night, it's illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere.
EXPOCITY is the perfect place to experience modern Osaka after enjoying nature at Expo '70 Commemorative Park. I think it can be enjoyed by people of all ages as you can enjoy various activities like shopping, entertainment, and gourmet food.
Website: https://www.expocity-mf.com/expo/
Itinerary 5: Enjoying Osaka's Sea at the Bay Area
Osaka faces the sea, and this itinerary allows you to fully enjoy the charm of Osaka's sea. Spending time leisurely while looking at the sea makes you feel like your heart is being cleansed.
Itinerary Overview
・Order of movement: Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel → Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan → Harborland
・Time required: About 5 hours
・Main mode of transportation: Subway, walking, cruise ship
・Recommended seasons: Summer (night view), Winter (illuminations)
This itinerary not only allows you to fully enjoy the charm of Osaka's sea but also enjoy entertainment and shopping.
Access to the Bay Area
To reach the Bay Area, get off at "Osakako Station" on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line and walk for 5-10 minutes.
Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel is a huge Ferris wheel with a height of 112.5 meters and a diameter of 100 meters.
From the Ferris wheel, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Osaka Bay. On a clear day, you can see as far as Kobe.
Also, if you want to experience a romantic atmosphere, I recommend visiting Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan first and then riding the Ferris wheel in the evening or at night.
A slow aerial walk while viewing the night scenery is perfect for creating memories with someone special. I once rode it with my partner who came to Osaka, and we had a very nice time.
Website: http://tempozan-kanransya.com/tempozan-kanransya.com/en/
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the world's largest aquariums, featuring exhibits themed around the "Pacific Ocean".
The highlight of Kaiyukan is undoubtedly the 9-meter-high giant tank "Pacific Ocean". In this tank, whale sharks over 8 meters long swim leisurely.
Kaiyukan is a wonderful facility that both adults and children can enjoy. Not only can you observe the ecology of sea creatures up close, but you can also learn about the importance of environmental protection.
Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/
For more information about this large aquarium, please check out our Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Guide.
Tempozan Marketplace
Tempozan Marketplace is a shopping mall adjacent to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
Here, you can purchase Osaka-like souvenirs. There are also restaurants, so I recommend having a meal here.
And from near Tempozan Marketplace, you can enjoy an Osaka Bay cruise on the Santa Maria.
I've been on board several times, and the view of Osaka from the sea has a completely different charm from that on land. I especially recommend the cruise at dusk.
Tempozan Marketplace is a place where you can enjoy various activities like shopping, dining, and entertainment. I think it's the perfect place to spend time leisurely after the excitement of Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
If you'd like to learn more about the bay area, you'll find our Osaka Bay Area Guide useful.
Tempozan Marketplace Official Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/shopping.html
Santa Maria Official Website: https://suijo-bus.osaka/language/santamaria/
Recommended Spots in Osaka After Your Half-Day Trip
Even after enjoying a half-day tour, there are still many attractive spots in Osaka. If you have extra time, I recommend visiting the following spots.
Abeno Harukas
Abeno Harukas is the second tallest skyscraper in Japan and has become a new landmark of Osaka.
From the observation deck "Harukas 300" on the upper floors of the building, you can overlook the cityscape of Osaka. On a clear day, you can see as far as Kyoto and Kobe.
Abeno Harukas also has the latest shopping mall and an art museum. I often visit to enjoy shopping and art appreciation.
It's also popular as a night view spot, perfect for creating memories with your partner or family.
Tennoji Park
Tennoji Park is an urban park right next to Abeno Harukas. It has been recently renovated and is affectionately known as "Tennoji Park Botanical Gardens".
The lush green lawn area is like an oasis in the city. On sunny days, many people enjoy picnics here.
Also, Tennoji Zoo is located within Tennoji Park. This zoo is the third oldest zoo in Japan and is home to about 1000 animals of 200 species.
Tennoji Park is the perfect place to stop by after visiting Abeno Harukas. It's like a small oasis in Osaka where you can relax surrounded by greenery, a little away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Nakanoshima
Nakanoshima is a place where you can enjoy the beautiful riverside scenery that symbolizes Osaka.
Many retro buildings stand in Nakanoshima, including the Osaka City Central Public Hall. The Central Public Hall, characterized by its red brick exterior, is a historical building constructed nearly 100 years ago in the Taisho era, and its beauty is breathtaking.
You can enjoy a leisurely walk in Nakanoshima Park. The riverside cherry blossom trees in full bloom in spring are especially spectacular. You can also enjoy beautiful roses and autumn foliage in fall, making it a place where you can enjoy nature in all four seasons.
At night, Nakanoshima shows a different face. The illuminated bridges and buildings reflected on the water surface create a fantastic atmosphere.
Especially during the "Osaka Festival of the Lights" held every winter, the whole of Nakanoshima is wrapped in illuminations, creating a beauty as if you've stepped into a fairy tale world. I look forward to this event every year.
Nakanoshima is a special place where Osaka's history, culture, and nature are in harmony. I think it's a place where you can discover new charms of Osaka while strolling leisurely.
For more detailed information, please see our Nakanoshima Guide.
America-mura
America-mura is known as the center of Osaka's youth culture.
In this area, you can enjoy the latest fashion. Unique select shops and boutiques of young designers line the streets, allowing you to feel the cutting edge of Osaka's street fashion.
The triangular park in the center of America-mura is a hangout for young people and also serves as a stage for street performances. On holidays, various performers gather and showcase music and dance.
America-mura is a place where you can experience Osaka's pop culture. I think you can discover a new side of Osaka just by walking through the energetic cityscape overflowing with the enthusiasm and creativity of young people.
For more information about this youth culture hub, check out our Guide to Americamura.
Recommended Tours in Osaka
For those who want to efficiently enjoy Osaka or get to know Osaka more deeply, I recommend guided tours.
"4-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour with Lunch" by Magical Trip
This is a 4-hour tour by our Magical Trip, where you enjoy cycling with a local guide from around Tenmabashi Station towards Osaka Castle.
You'll cycle around Osaka's main spots like Osaka Castle, Nakanoshima, and Dotonbori. It feels great to ride while listening to the guide's fun explanations. Also, it includes a light lunch and cafe stop, so you don't have to worry about getting hungry.
I recommend this tour for those who liked Itinerary 1. You can efficiently cover the area by bicycle, so you can fully enjoy Osaka's charms even in half a day.
The price is about 69 USD per person, which I think is very reasonable considering the rich 4-hour content.
Click here for more details: 4-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour with Lunch
"Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai" by Magical Trip
This is a 3-hour food tour by Magical Trip where you can fully enjoy Dotonbori and Shinsekai, Osaka's representative gourmet spots.
On the tour, you can enjoy Osaka specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Not only do you just eat around, but you also learn about the history of each dish and what they mean to local people, allowing you to understand Osaka's food culture more deeply.
I recommend this tour as a half-day trip. It's attractive that you can fully enjoy Osaka's gourmet food in a compact 3 hours. If you're interested in Osaka's food culture, please consider participating.
Click here for more details: Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
"Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour" by Arigato Travel
Source: Arigato Travel
This is a 3-hour tour where you can enjoy food in Shinsekai at night.
Shinsekai has a different charm at night. However, there might be some safety concerns at night, so using a tour with a local guide is reassuring.
The charm of this tour is that you can also learn in detail about the history of Shinsekai and the lives of local people from the guide.
If you plan to visit Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai at night, consider this tour.
Click here for more details: Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour
"Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka" by Magical Trip
This is a 2-hour food walking tour by Magical Trip that covers the Kuromon Market area.
On the tour, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the market while eating around Osaka specialties, starting with takoyaki.
Also, the charm of this tour is that you can enjoy shopping for unique kitchen utensils, not just eating around.
I think it's very reasonable at 44 USD per person, including a guide and 4-5 street food items. I recommend this tour for those who want to know Osaka's food culture deeply and experience the atmosphere of a market bustling with locals.
Click here for more details: Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka
Want to discover more tours? Take a look at our guide to the Top 10 Tours in Osaka.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about half-day tours in Osaka. These insights come from my 10 years of living in Osaka and guiding many friends and family.
What's the Best Time for a Half-Day Tour in Osaka?
I recommend from 9:00 AM to around 2:00 PM. This time frame has the following advantages:
First, this time frame includes lunchtime, so you can enjoy delicious Osaka gourmet food. When I guide friends, I always choose this time frame.
Also, starting at 9:00 AM allows you to visit major spots before they get crowded. I especially recommend going early to popular tourist spots like Osaka Castle and Tsutenkaku.
In my experience, these places get quite crowded in the afternoon, so it's a great advantage to be able to view them in the fresh morning air.
However, you can still enjoy plenty from the afternoon. Especially the bustle of downtown areas like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi from evening to night is also attractive.
Just remember, as mentioned in the earlier tips, shopping streets and markets close early, so be careful. If you plan to visit places like Kuromon Market, I recommend visiting in the morning or early afternoon.
What Budget is Needed for a Half-Day Tour in Osaka?
I estimate that a budget of about 5,000 to 15,000 yen is needed for a half-day tour. This amount includes admission fees and meal costs.
However, a separate budget for shopping should be considered. Osaka has many attractive souvenirs, and it's easy to buy more than planned. When I guide friends, I recommend budgeting an additional 3,000 to 5,000 yen for souvenirs.
Also, if you participate in guided tours like those introduced earlier, you'll need to add the tour fee separately.
Personally, I think these tours are very valuable, especially for those visiting Osaka for the first time. You can efficiently experience Osaka's charms and get information unique to local guides.
What Gourmet Food Should You Definitely Eat on a Half-Day Tour in Osaka?
Osaka is called the "City of Kuidaore" (eat till you drop), and there are many delicious gourmet foods. Even on a half-day tour, I think these dishes are absolute must-tries:
1. Takoyaki: This is almost synonymous with Osaka. The texture of crispy outside and gooey inside is exquisite. My recommendation is takoyaki from "Kukuru".
2. Okonomiyaki: Osaka-style okonomiyaki is characterized by plenty of cabbage and a fluffy texture.
3. Kushikatsu: Kushikatsu with crispy batter and juicy ingredients inside is an Osaka flavor. "Daruma" in Shinsekai is a must-visit.
4. 551 Horai's Steamed Pork Buns: The juicy and delicious steamed pork buns from 551 Horai, often seen at Osaka stations and airports, are also recommended as souvenirs.
All these dishes are easy to eat, so you can enjoy them between sightseeing during your half-day tour.
To discover Osaka's amazing food scene, please check out our Osaka Food Guide.
Osaka is a city that can be thoroughly enjoyed even in half a day. From the historic Osaka Castle to the modern Dotonbori, it's packed with varied tourist spots. Also, the delicious gourmet food befitting the "City of Kuidaore" is one of Osaka's great charms.
Please use the five model itineraries introduced in this article, additional recommended spots, tours, etc., as a reference to create your own Osaka half-day plan. By touring efficiently, you should be able to fully enjoy Osaka's charms even in a short time!
