One Day Trip to Osaka: Ultimate Guide with 4 Exciting Itineraries
I still vividly remember when I first came to Osaka and was overwhelmed by its vibrancy and unique atmosphere.
I was scolded by a shop owner for double-dipping my kushikatsu, and I smiled countless times at the warm sound of the Kansai dialect. As I accumulated such experiences, this city gradually became my second home.
Osaka is a fascinating city where old traditions intersect with the latest trends. You can enjoy cutting-edge fashion next to an old market, or gaze down at the city from a skyscraper observation deck after soaking in the retro atmosphere of Shinsekai. I believe it's these contrasts that create the city's charm.
In this article, I'll introduce the allure of Osaka that I've discovered through actually living here, in four different courses.
I hope you find your own charm of Osaka. Now, let's set out on our Osaka tour together!
For those who want to discover the appeal of the entire Osaka area, please check out the Osaka Guide.
For those who want to enjoy Osaka in less time, please check out our Osaka Half-Day Trip Guide.
Table of Contents
・What Kind of City is Osaka?
・Tips for a One Day Trip in Osaka
・Itinerary 1: Classic Course Covering Osaka Castle and Dotonbori
・Itinerary 2: Enjoying Urban Charm in Umeda and Nakanoshima
・Itinerary 3: Experiencing Showa Retro in Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku
・Itinerary 4: Enjoying Nature in Osaka
・Recommended Tours in Osaka
・Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of City is Osaka?
Osaka is a major city located in the western part of Japan, in the "Kansai region," attracting many tourists with its unique culture and vibrant atmosphere.
The Center of Tourism in the "Kansai Area"
As the center of the Kansai region, Osaka offers very convenient access to surrounding tourist spots. I've experienced the joy of exploring various parts of Kansai from Osaka many times.
It's easy to access major areas of "Kansai" such as Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Wakayama. For example, it's entirely possible to make a day trip to Kyoto while staying at a hotel in Osaka. I enjoy visiting different cities every weekend, savoring the diverse charms of Kansai.
Commercial Center
Osaka has developed as one of Japan's economic centers since ancient times. Even today, many companies have their headquarters or branch offices concentrated here, and its vitality overflows throughout the city.
One of Osaka's characteristics is its many vibrant shopping streets. There are many places called "the kitchen of the common people" loved by locals, such as Kuromon Market and Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street. On holidays, I always visit these shopping streets to enjoy finding fresh ingredients and unique products.
On the other hand, there are also plenty of cutting-edge commercial facilities. There are many places to enjoy shopping and gourmet food, such as Abeno Harukas and Grand Front Osaka.
The well-developed public transportation system, including subways, JR, and private railways, is also very convenient, making it an easily navigable city for tourists.
Charm as a Gourmet Capital
Osaka is known as the "city of kuidaore" (eat until you drop), and its rich food culture is famous throughout Japan. Since I moved to Osaka, I've been enjoying new flavors almost every day.
There are plenty of affordable and delicious local dishes such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Especially in Dotonbori and Shinsekai, there are unique dining districts that are always bustling with locals and tourists.
Osaka also offers internationally diverse food options, such as Koreatown in Tsuruhashi. Being able to enjoy flavors from various countries around the world, like Korean and Vietnamese cuisines, is also one of Osaka's charms.
Unique Culture and Temperament
The temperament and culture of Osaka's people are also one of the city's great charms. Since coming to Osaka, I've been helped countless times by the warmth of the people and their unique sense of humor.
The distinctive dialect and expressions called "Kansai-ben" are central elements of Osaka's culture. At first, I was confused by how harsh it sounded, but now I love the warm resonance of Kansai-ben.
Also, Osaka's people have an enterprising spirit and a culture of actively embracing new things. I feel that this open atmosphere contributes to the overall vibrancy of the city.
The culture that values laughter is also a characteristic of Osaka. The parody souvenir products you see around the city represent the playful spirit and sense of humor of Osaka people. Honestly, I was surprised at first, but now I've come to enjoy this kind of humor.
Above all, I'm touched by the friendliness and hospitality of Osaka's people. I feel the warmth of Osaka's people every day, whether it's kindly giving directions when I'm lost or chatting casually in stores.
Tips for a One Day Trip in Osaka
There are several tips for enjoying Osaka efficiently in one day. I'll share some tips I've learned from my years of living in Osaka to maximize your sightseeing enjoyment.
You Can Get to Most Places in Osaka City by Subway
Osaka's subway network is very well developed, and you can access most major tourist spots. I use the subway regularly, and I'm really helped by its convenience.
Most of Osaka's popular spots like Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Umeda are accessible by subway. While JR is more convenient for Osaka Castle and Universal Studios Japan (USJ), you'll still have many opportunities to use the subway.
I recommend purchasing a one-day subway pass. With this, you can move around Osaka city almost freely. It's an economical and efficient option, especially for those visiting Osaka for the first time.
Website: https://subway.osakametro.co.jp/en/guide/page/enjoy-eco.php
If You Get Lost in the Underground Mall, Go Above Ground
Osaka's underground malls, especially in the Umeda area, are called "dungeons" due to their complexity. I got lost many times when I first started exploring them.
Since Google Maps doesn't clearly show the structure of underground malls, I recommend going above ground without hesitation if you get lost. Once above ground, you can more easily find your destination using surrounding buildings and signs as landmarks.
On the other hand, if you can "conquer" Umeda's underground mall, you can move around comfortably even on rainy or hot days. If you have time, it's interesting to explore. I often walk around the underground mall on holidays, discovering new shops and shortcuts.
"Osaka Station" and "Umeda Station" Are in the Same Area
Many people visiting Osaka get confused about the relationship between "Osaka Station" and "Umeda Station." I was also confused at first, but they actually refer to basically the same area.
"Osaka Station" refers to the JR station in the Umeda area. Furthermore, the subway stations "Higashi-Umeda Station" and "Nishi-Umeda Station" are also in the same Umeda area. Although their exact locations differ slightly, it's fine to consider JR "Osaka Station" and all stations with "Umeda" in their name as being in the same area.
With this knowledge, you should be able to move around smoothly without being confused by the different station names. Now, I can use these stations interchangeably for efficient travel.
Summers Are Very Hot
Osaka's summers are really hot. I moved from Tokyo, but I often feel that Osaka is hotter.
When sightseeing in summer, I recommend always carrying a drink and staying hydrated frequently. I always carry a cold drink and try to take breaks often. It's necessary to be very careful about heat stroke.
On the other hand, Osaka's winters are not very cold and are quite comfortable. Since snow rarely accumulates in the city center, you can enjoy winter sightseeing comfortably.
If you keep these tips in mind, you'll be able to enjoy your one-day trip to Osaka more efficiently and comfortably. Now, let's introduce specific sightseeing plans. I've prepared four model courses, so please choose according to your interests and preferences.
Itinerary 1: Classic Course Covering Osaka Castle and Dotonbori
This is a perfect course for those visiting Osaka for the first time, covering Osaka's classic spots. When I first came to Osaka, I toured this course many times. You should be able to fully enjoy the charm of Osaka where history and modernity blend.
Course Overview
This course allows you to experience Osaka's history and modern vibrancy at once.
・Order of movement: Osaka Castle Park → Osaka Museum of History → Dotonbori → Ura Namba
・Time required: About 10 hours (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
・Main transportation: JR, subway, on foot
・Recommended season: Spring (cherry blossoms), Autumn (autumn leaves), All year round
My recommendation is the cherry blossom season in spring. The cherry blossoms in Osaka Castle Park are breathtaking and attract many people every year. However, you should be able to fully enjoy Osaka's charm regardless of the season you visit.
First, Visit the Osaka Castle Area
I recommend exploring the park area centered around Osaka Castle from morning to noon. I often visit here on holidays to enjoy the history and nature.
Access:
・JR Osaka Loop Line "Osakajokoen Station"
・Osaka Metro Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line: Osaka Business Park Station, Chuo Line: Morinomiya Station
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park is a beautiful place where history and nature blend. When I first visited here, I was overwhelmed by its grandeur.
You can visit the castle tower, learn about Osaka's history, and enjoy the view from the top floor. The view overlooking the cityscape of Osaka is spectacular.
Also, at the beginning of spring, you can stroll through the plum grove where about 100 varieties and 1,200 plum trees bloom (mid-February to early March). Walking surrounded by the scent of plum blossoms is exceptional.
Around April, you can visit famous spots where about 3,000 cherry trees bloom in full glory (late March to early April). Cherry blossom viewing under full bloom is one of the highlights of Osaka sightseeing.
For those who want to learn more about this spot, please also check out the Osaka Castle Guide.
Osaka Museum of History
The Osaka Museum of History is a wonderful facility where you can learn deeply about Osaka's history.
You can learn about Osaka's history from prehistoric times to the present day in the permanent exhibition. It's very interesting to trace the changes in Osaka chronologically. You can also enjoy special limited-time exhibitions (check the official website for dates and content).
Also, you can enjoy the view of Osaka Castle and the city from the observation deck on the 10th floor. The view overlooking the cityscape of Osaka including Osaka Castle is breathtaking.
Website: https://www.osakamushis.jp/eng/index.html
For other museum options, please see the Osaka Museum Guide.
Rental Bicycle
Cycling in Osaka Castle Park is also a fun experience. I use it occasionally, and it's very convenient to be able to tour the vast park efficiently.
You can cycle around Osaka Castle Park and efficiently tour the vast park. Also, during the cherry blossom season in spring, I recommend cycling to Sakuranomiya Park where the cherry blossom trees along the river are beautiful.
Magical Trip offers a cycling tour to Osaka Castle, so please check it out.
Enjoy the Dotonbori and Namba Area from Afternoon
From the Osaka Castle area, move to Shinsaibashi Station using the Osaka Metro Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line from Morinomiya Station or Osaka Business Park Station. If you walk south through the shopping street from Shinsaibashi, you'll arrive at Dotonbori. From here, you can fully enjoy Osaka's modern charm.
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is one of the places where you can feel Osaka's energy and bustle the most. When friends or family come to Osaka, I always guide them here.
Take a commemorative photo in front of the Glico sign, which is a representative tourist spot in Osaka. This sign is one of Osaka's symbols, and I've taken photos here many times.
Also, take a stroll along the Dotonbori River and enjoy the waterside atmosphere. It's particularly beautiful at night when it's lit up. It's also interesting to observe the various unique large signboards. Just looking at the moving crab and pufferfish signs is fun.
Please check out the Dotonbori Guide, which provides detailed information about the food and attractions in this area.
Food Hopping
The Dotonbori area is a treasure trove of Osaka gourmet food. I often enjoy food hopping here on holidays.
The Dotonbori area, including Kuromon Market, is an area with a high concentration of restaurants. You can enjoy fresh seafood and Osaka's specialty dishes.
If you want to fully enjoy Kuromon Market, I recommend Magical Trip's tour.
I especially recommend takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. These are Osaka's representative foods, and they're all delicious.
The popular 551 Horai's pork buns are also recommended, though you might have to wait in line. The outside is chewy and the inside is juicy, creating an unforgettable taste once you try it.
Kuromon Market Website: https://kuromon.com/en/
551 Website: https://www.551horai.co.jp/
America-mura (Amemura)
America-mura is a vibrant area known as a hub for youth culture. I sometimes visit here to enjoy Osaka's latest trends.
In this area, you can check out the latest street fashion of young people. It's bustling with young people enjoying unique fashion. I especially recommend exploring the giant staircase-shaped complex facility called Big Step. It houses various shops and is fun just to walk around.
You might see street performances in Triangle Park where young people gather. It's also interesting to explore vintage shops selling unique second-hand clothes and accessories. You might find some hidden gems in this youth neighborhood of Osaka.
To learn more about this energetic spot, please check out the Amerikamura Guide.
Hozenji Yokocho
Hozenji Yokocho is a lovely place where you can feel the old-time atmosphere of Osaka. I occasionally visit to soak in the nostalgic ambiance.
First, let's visit Hozenji Temple, famous for its matchmaking powers. It's always bustling with young people praying for success in love. In the nearby alley, you can enjoy a midday drink at retro bars that retain the Showa era atmosphere.
It's also fun to explore the unique shops lining the narrow alleys. Pay attention to the signboards and decorations of each shop. I recommend photographing the retro signboards and decorations as photogenic spots.
To learn more about this local drinking spot, check out the Hozenji Yokocho Guide.
Head to the Ura Namba Area at Night
In contrast to the bustling main streets popular with tourists, Ura Namba is an area where over 100 unique restaurants loved by locals and connoisseurs line the streets. I often visit here with friends for drinks.
With many old buildings and signs, it has a nostalgic atmosphere. It's popular as a place to experience the deep culture and gourmet food of Osaka that you can't find on the main streets. You can enjoy the real Osaka night among the locals.
I recommend bar hopping as there are many unique izakayas and standing bars.
Through this course, you should be able to experience the multifaceted charm of Osaka in one day, from its history and modernity to its hidden face. Next, I'll introduce a course where you can enjoy the urban charm of Umeda and Nakanoshima.
Itinerary 2: Enjoying Urban Charm in Umeda and Nakanoshima
In this course, you can fully enjoy Osaka's urban charm. I often visit this area on weekends to enjoy shopping and gourmet food. It's recommended for those who want to enjoy Osaka's latest trends and urban scenery.
Course Overview
・Order of movement: Grand Front Osaka → Umeda Sky Building → Nakanoshima Park → Dinner in Umeda
・Time required: About 10 hours (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
・Main transportation: On foot, subway (Midosuji Line), water bus
・Recommended season: Spring (roses), Winter (illuminations), Summer (to seek coolness)
My recommendation is the illumination season in winter when the whole city is wrapped in light, creating a very fantastic atmosphere.
First, Enjoy the Famous Places in the Umeda Area
Access the area via JR "Osaka Station" or subway stations with "Umeda" in their name. The Umeda area is Osaka's gateway and a place where the latest trends gather.
Grand Front Osaka
Grand Front Osaka is a complex facility where you can enjoy shopping, gourmet food, and even the latest technology. You can explore two stylish commercial facilities and visit shops handling a wide range of products from fashion to miscellaneous goods.
You can relax in Umekita Garden as an oasis in the city, forgetting the hustle and bustle of the city in a lush green space. You can also enjoy shopping at famous brands and limited shops, with some brands making their first appearance in Japan or offering Osaka-limited products, so it's worth checking out.
Website: https://www.grandfront-osaka.jp/languages/
Also take a look at our Grand Front Osaka Guide.
Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building is one of Osaka's iconic architectural structures. When I first visited, I was taken aback by its unique shape and spectacular view. You can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view from the Floating Garden Observatory 173 meters above ground, and the view overlooking Osaka's cityscape is breathtaking.
You can also enjoy the view from the glass elevator, and the changing scenery as you ascend feels like you're taking a walk in the sky.
Website: https://www.skybldg.co.jp/en/
HEP FIVE
HEP FIVE is a shopping mall popular among young people. You can ride the red Ferris wheel that offers a view of Osaka's cityscape.
You can enjoy fashion shopping, looking for the latest trendy clothes and accessories. There are many brands for young people, allowing you to enjoy the latest fashion at affordable prices.
You can enjoy light meals at the food court where various restaurants gather, with options ranging from Osaka-style flavors to cuisines from around the world. Limited-time pop-up stores and events are also held, so there's always something new to discover no matter when you visit.
Website: https://www.hepfive.jp/
Pokemon Center Osaka
This is a must-visit spot for Pokemon fans. I visit occasionally, and I'm always surprised by the abundance of items. The charm is that you can purchase Osaka-limited Pokemon goods, with some items that can only be found here, so Pokemon fans should definitely check it out.
Website: https://www.pokemon.co.jp/shop/en/pokecen/osaka/
Explore the Underground Mall and Enjoy Lunch
The underground mall in Umeda is called a "dungeon" due to its scale and complexity. I got lost many times at first, but now I can confidently guide others.
Exploring Japan's largest Umeda underground dungeon, you'll find various shops lined up, as if there's a town underground. With many shops and restaurants, from souvenir shops to gourmet spots, you can enjoy a whole day just in the underground mall.
If you'd like to spend more time enjoying this area, please check out our Umeda Guide.
Enjoy an Urban Oasis in the Nakanoshima Area
The Nakanoshima area is a place with lush greenery and a calm atmosphere despite being in the center of Osaka. I sometimes visit here to relieve stress.
Nakanoshima Park
Nakanoshima Park is a lovely place where you can feel nature despite being in the heart of Osaka. I often relax here on weekends.
You can appreciate the rose garden where about 3,000 rose plants bloom (peak in May), and the experience of being surrounded by the scent of colorful roses is exceptional. You can capture the scenery of Osaka, also known as the "City of Water," in photos, and the cityscape reflected in the river is a perfect spot for photography.
We recommend reading our Nakanoshima Area Guide as well.
Osaka City Central Public Hall
The Osaka City Central Public Hall is a wonderful building that, while being a historical structure, is still actively used today. I visit occasionally and am always captivated by its majestic atmosphere.
You can enjoy the beauty of modern architecture, with the red brick exterior and interior decorations being well worth seeing. There are also opportunities to view planned exhibitions and special exhibitions, with various themed displays being held, so it's worth checking out.
Website: https://osaka-chuokokaido.jp/
Osaka Science Museum
The Osaka Science Museum is a must-visit spot for science enthusiasts. I visit occasionally, and there's always something new to discover.
You can experience various science experiments and exhibits in the exhibition hall from the basement to the 4th floor, enjoyable for both adults and children. You can enjoy starry skies and space images in the planetarium, and the universe recreated with the latest imaging technology is breathtaking.
You can purchase science-related goods at the museum shop, and unique science items make great souvenirs.
Website: https://www.sci-museum.jp/osaka-science-museum/
Nakanoshima Library
Nakanoshima Library is a beautiful building with over 100 years of history. I visit occasionally to calm my mind in its quiet and majestic atmosphere. You can tour this retro building, which is a historical structure from over 100 years ago, and its weighty atmosphere and beautiful decorations are a must-see.
Website: https://www.library.pref.osaka.jp/69733
Enjoy Dinner in Umeda from Evening to Night
The Umeda area has restaurants of various genres gathered. I often use this area when dining with friends or family.
Hankyu Department Store
Hankyu Department Store is a luxurious department store, and its food floor is particularly popular. You can enjoy high-quality meals at the restaurant area on the 12th-13th floors, with restaurants of various genres from Japanese to Western cuisine.
The charm is that there are various options from high-end restaurants to relatively reasonably priced eateries, allowing you to choose according to your budget and preferences.
Website: https://x.gd/w0bI8
Please also check out our Hankyu Umeda Main Store Guide.
LUCUA Osaka
LUCUA Osaka is a convenient shopping mall directly connected to JR Osaka Station. I often use it while shopping. The upper floors are concentrated with restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to authentic cuisine restaurants.
While more reasonable than Hankyu Department Store, it has many high-quality shops, with many restaurants perfect for dates.
Website: https://www.lucua.jp/en/
Be sure to check out our special feature on LUCUA Osaka.
Whity Umeda
Source: Wikipedia
Whity Umeda is a restaurant district spread out in Umeda's underground mall. It's a place loved by locals, and I use it often.
In the area spread out in the underground mall, there are various restaurants from chain stores to unique local shops. You can enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices, recommended for those who want to enjoy Osaka's down-to-earth flavors.
Website: https://en.whity.osaka-chikagai.jp/
Osaka Station Building (Ekibiru)
The Osaka Station Building, commonly known as "Ekibiru," is a dining spot familiar to locals. I often stop by on my way home from work.
The underground mall of the building adjacent to Osaka Station is called "Ekibiru" and has many local eateries. It's also used as a place for Osaka locals to drink. It's recommended for those who want to have a local experience while in the city, allowing you to enjoy authentic Osaka flavors and atmosphere.
As the Osaka Station area has become a city within itself, be sure to check out our Osaka Station City Guide.
Through this course, you should be able to fully enjoy Osaka's urban charm. Every time I tour this course, I feel Osaka's evolution and make new discoveries. Next, I'll introduce a course where you can enjoy the retro atmosphere of Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku.
Itinerary 3: Experiencing Showa Retro in Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku
In this course, you can fully enjoy Osaka's Showa retro atmosphere. It's recommended for those who want to experience Osaka's down-to-earth culture to the fullest.
Course Overview
・Order of movement: Tsutenkaku → Shinsekai → Spa World → Tennoji Park → Abeno Harukas
・Time required: About 7 hours (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
・Main transportation: On foot, subway (Midosuji Line)
・Recommended season: All year round
This course can be enjoyed regardless of the season, so if you're unsure, please choose this course.
Head to Osaka's Deep Spot, the Shinsekai Area
The Shinsekai area is a region where Osaka's common people's culture remains strong. There are several ways to access it, but I most recommend getting off at "Dobutsuen-mae Station" on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line.
Tsutenkaku
Tsutenkaku is a structure that could be called the symbol of Shinsekai. You can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka city from the observation deck. The view overlooking Osaka's cityscape is breathtaking.
Don't forget to stroke the soles of the Billiken statue's feet to bring good luck. You can purchase Tsutenkaku goods and Osaka souvenirs at the souvenir shop. There are many uniquely designed products, and it's fun just to look around.
Website: https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/
Taste Kushikatsu in Shinsekai's "Jan Jan Yokocho"
"Jan Jan Yokocho" in Shinsekai is the best place to experience Osaka's down-to-earth food culture. I visit here occasionally to enjoy the lively atmosphere and delicious food.
Known as the birthplace of kushikatsu, you can go on a food tour of famous shops. You can enjoy crispy fried kushikatsu while following the rule of no double-dipping.
It's also charming to bar hop multiple standing bars and enjoy local flavors and atmosphere. It's interesting to explore the unique shops lining the narrow alleys, and it's fun to see the retro atmosphere remaining in the signs and decorations.
I also recommend enjoying a drink from the afternoon in the lively atmosphere. The beer you drink among the locals is exceptional.
For more about this local street, check out our Jan Jan Yokocho Guide.
Spa World
Source: Wikipedia
Spa World is a relaxing bathing spot in Shinsekai. I often visit when I'm feeling tired.
You can enjoy a hot spring experience in various baths reproducing world hot springs. You can enjoy various types of baths, from European-style baths to Japanese open-air baths.
You can also experience various types of bedrock baths, warming your body from the core and feeling a detox effect. It's also charming to be able to relax in the rest area, with massage chairs and light meal corners available for a leisurely stay.
Website: https://www.spaworld.co.jp/english/
To the Tennoji/Abeno Area
Moving a bit from Shinsekai to the Tennoji/Abeno area. Here, you can enjoy a unique space where retro atmosphere and the latest facilities blend.
Abeno Harukas
Abeno Harukas is the second tallest building in Japan, and you can enjoy a grand panorama from the observation deck. You can view planned exhibitions and permanent exhibitions at the art museum, enjoying displays ranging from contemporary art to classics.
You can also dine at restaurants on the upper floors while enjoying the view. Since there's a department store, you can also enjoy shopping and taking breaks at cafes. It's perfect for souvenir hunting.
Website: https://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/en/
Tennoji Zoo
Tennoji Zoo is a healing spot in the middle of the city. I visit occasionally, and my heart is soothed by the sight of the animals. It's a zoo adjacent to Tennoji Station, making it very convenient to access.
In summer, you can sometimes participate in nighttime zoo events to observe nocturnal animals. It's a valuable experience to see the animals in a different state from daytime.
Website: https://www.tennojizoo.jp/en/
Through this course, you should be able to experience both Osaka's retro charm and its latest urban face at the same time.
Next, I'll introduce a course where you can enjoy nature in Osaka. Although Osaka has a strong image of being urban, there are actually many places rich in nature.
For those who want to learn more about Shinsekai, the main highlight of this course, please check out the Shinsekai Guide.
Itinerary 4: Enjoying Nature in Osaka
While Osaka has a strong urban image, there are actually many places rich in nature. In this course, you can enjoy such hidden charms of Osaka.
Course Overview
・Order of movement: Minoh Park → Minoh Onsen → Expo '70 Commemorative Park
・Time required: About 8 hours (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
・Main transportation: Train (Hankyu Minoh Line), on foot
・Recommended season: Spring (fresh greenery), Autumn (autumn leaves), Summer (to seek coolness)
My recommendation is the autumn foliage season. The sight of the area around Minoh Falls dyed in red and yellow is breathtaking, and I look forward to it every year.
Enjoy Osaka's Great Nature in Minoh Park
Minoh Park is a place rich in nature that can be accessed in about 30 minutes from central Osaka. I visit here at least once in autumn to refresh away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
For access, take the Hankyu Takarazuka Line from Osaka-Umeda Station, change to the Hankyu Minoh Line at "Ishibashi-Handai-mae Station," and get off at "Minoh Station."
Minoh Falls
Minoh Falls is the symbolic presence of Minoh Park. When I first visited, I was overwhelmed by its power. You can closely view the 33-meter high waterfall, and it feels very refreshing to be sprayed by the waterfall mist.
You can also enjoy the hiking course to the waterfall (about 3km), with the rich natural scenery along the way being one of the pleasures. It's also charming to be able to observe the rich nature and wildlife in the surroundings, and if you're lucky, you might encounter monkeys.
I also recommend taking commemorative photos with the waterfall in the background, which should make for great social media-worthy pictures.
For other Osaka hikes, please see our Osaka Hiking Guide.
Momiji Tempura
Momiji Tempura is a famous local food in Minoh. I always go to eat it every autumn. Its unique taste and appearance should be an unforgettable experience.
You can enjoy it while taking a break at the teahouses along the waterfall path, so I recommend stopping by on your way to the waterfall. This seasonal natural flavor is popular with many tourists as an autumn tradition.
Minoh Onsen
Source: Minoh Onsen Official Website
Minoh Onsen is the perfect place to relax after hiking. Whenever I visit Minoh, I always come here to relieve my fatigue. You can soak in the hot spring in a nature-rich environment and heal the fatigue from your walk.
It's also charming to be able to try various types of baths, including seasonal baths and medicinal baths, allowing you to choose according to your mood or physical condition on that day. You can also enjoy meals within the facility, tasting dishes made with local ingredients.
Website: https://minoh-spa.ooedoonsen.jp/
To the Expo '70 Commemorative Park Area
Expo '70 Commemorative Park is a vast park developed on the site of the 1970 Japan World Exposition (Osaka Expo). I often visit on holidays to spend time leisurely.
For access, follow the reverse route from when you came to Minoh Station on the Hankyu train, get off at "Hotarugaike Station" midway on the Takarazuka Line. From there, change to the monorail and head to "Banpaku-kinen-koen Station."
Expo '70 Commemorative Park has a vast site of about 258 hectares with abundant nature and cultural facilities, and you won't get bored even if you explore all day.
The park's symbol, the "Tower of the Sun," is a must-see, and its unique shape and colors overwhelm viewers. Every time I visit, I'm overwhelmed by its impact.
Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/languages/english/
EXPOCITY, adjacent to the park, is a large commercial facility where you can enjoy shopping and dining. It's an ideal place for souvenir hunting, with the latest fashion and Osaka-limited goods.
After moving from Minoh Park, you can spend time here leisurely until night. There's also a Ferris wheel, so I recommend viewing the night view of Osaka from here.
Website: https://www.expocity-mf.com/expo/
Through this course, you can experience an unexpected side of Osaka, which has a strong urban image, with its rich nature and history.
Recommended Tours in Osaka
For those who want to enjoy Osaka efficiently or know Osaka more deeply, guided tours are recommended.
Here, I'll introduce four particularly recommended tours.
"Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai" by Magical Trip
In this tour, you can fully enjoy Dotonbori and Shinsekai, which are representative gourmet spots in Osaka. The charm is that you can enjoy famous dishes such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu during the 3-hour tour.
Furthermore, you'll also visit nearby shrines, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy Osaka sightseeing and gourmet at the same time.
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. Since some areas of Shinsekai are not very safe at night, it's reassuring to use a tour with a local guide. If you plan to visit Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai at night, please 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 our Magical Trip tour that takes you around the Kuromon Market area for 2 hours. You can enjoy local food starting with takoyaki, and shopping for unique kitchen utensils.
The reasonable price of $44 per person, including 4-5 street food items and a local guide, is also attractive.
Click here for more details: Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka
"4-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour with Lunch" by Magical Trip
This tour is a 4-hour experience touring Osaka's attractions by bicycle. You'll enjoy cycling with a local guide from around Temmabashi Station towards Osaka Castle.
The charm is that you can enjoy Osaka while avoiding trains and crowds. The light lunch and cafe break you stop by along the way are also good opportunities to enjoy local flavors.
The price is about $69 per person, including guide, bicycle rental, light lunch, and cafe break. It's recommended for those who want to experience Osaka's charms efficiently and enjoyably Click here for more details: 4-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour with Lunch
By using these tours, you can experience Osaka's charms more deeply and safely. You'll be introduced to local perspectives and spots that are difficult for tourists to find on their own, so you're sure to become an Osaka expert.
For those who want to learn more, please check out our article on the Top 10 Tours in Osaka.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'll answer some common questions about planning an Osaka trip, drawing from my own experiences.
What's the Best Time for a One Day Trip to Osaka?
Osaka has its charms in each season, but spring and autumn are especially recommended. If you're enjoying nature like in Itinerary 4, the best seasons are spring (late March-April) when cherry blossoms bloom and autumn (November) when the autumn leaves are beautiful.
Personally, I like autumn the best when the climate is mild and you can enjoy the autumn leaves. However, you can basically enjoy the other itineraries year-round.
What Are the Must-Try Foods for Food Hopping in Osaka?
Osaka is called the "city of kuidaore" (eat until you drop), and there are many delicious gourmet foods. Here are four that you shouldn't miss:
First, takoyaki is a taste representing Osaka's common people. The texture with a crispy outside and gooey inside is exquisite. Next, okonomiyaki allows you to enjoy the difference between Kansai and Hiroshima styles. I prefer the Kansai style, but both are delicious.
Kushikatsu requires attention to the rule of no double-dipping, but the crispy fried kushikatsu is delicious. Lastly, 551 Horai's pork buns are a famous local product that you can easily buy at places like Osaka Station. Hot pork buns are especially recommended in the cold season.
What Are Some Osaka Tourist Spots That Can Be Enjoyed Even on Rainy Days?
There are many tourist spots that can be enjoyed even on rainy days. Here are my top three recommendations:
First, Abeno Harukas, introduced in Itinerary 3, is a complex facility where you can enjoy an observation deck, art museum, and shopping. You can enjoy it all day even on rainy days.
Next, the Osaka Science Museum is full of planetarium and science experiences. It's a facility that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
Lastly, the Umeda Station area has many underground malls and commercial facilities, so you can enjoy shopping and gourmet food all day without getting wet in the rain. In fact, I often spend rainy days in Umeda.
That concludes the complete guide for a one day trip to Osaka. Osaka is my second hometown, and even after living here for many years, I still make new discoveries.
When visiting Osaka, please use this guide as a reference to find your own way to enjoy Osaka. It's good to tour the classic spots, but it's also interesting to explore the back alleys. I also recommend using tours to interact with local people.
I sincerely hope that your stay in Osaka will be an unforgettable and wonderful experience!