Osaka Packages

Cherry Blossoms and City Life: Osaka Unveiled 

Everyone dreams of watching cherry blossoms and being mesmerized by their beauty at least once in their lives. Osaka, Japan, has been blessed with stunning spring cherry blossoms, and the views are to die for. Not just that, Osaka creates a contrast by presenting the modern life, full of shopping centres and neon-lit streets, on one side, and sanctifying the old and rural on the other. The contemporary aspect has adapted to offer an amazing, energetic nightlife alongside the culturally unique, magical daytime. Many picturesque sights and architectural marvels have been living in the heart of Japan, in Osaka. So, you should add Osaka to the top of your bucket list and start preparing to check it off. For a first-time traveler, an alienating experience in Osaka can be challenging, so here is a guide with all the information you need to have a dreamy trip. 

Country: Japan

Official Language: Japanese 

Population: 28.2 Lakhs (1 October 2025)

Currency: Japanese Yen 

Airport: Kansai International Airport (KIX) 

Must-Visit Places in Osaka

Osaka is Japan's second-largest metropolitan area. It is the economic centre of the Kansai region. Formerly known as Naniwa, it has transformed over time into a tourist attraction. With a perfect blend of village and urban, Osaka is the breath of fresh air that will help you reconnect with the elements of life. There are plenty of places that have become Instagram-perfect with their aesthetics and the messy pieces. So, to experience Osaka, you should not miss some of the magical places written below: 

1) Dotonburi: With the vibe of New York's Times Square, Dotonburi is the district of Osaka that is famous among tourists for its nightlife. Both sides of the canals are filled with neon billboards that add to the place's vibe. It was historically considered a theatre district because of the atmosphere and the advertisements. People visit Dotonburi for the entertainment. The city's history dates back to 1612, when the local administrator Nariyasu Doton recognized its necessity. The canal was completed after his death and was then named after him. 

2) Osaka Castle: In the period of Azuchi-Momoyama, the Osaka Castle played a significant role in the unification of Japan. Since then, it has been a prominent landmark. The castle was constructed in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle covers over 61,000 square metres and consists of 13 structures, all considered critical cultural assets. People visit Osaka Castle for its rich history, panoramic city views, artifacts, historical displays, and beautiful landscape. The castle is still well-maintained and preserved for the tourists. 

3) Hozenji: In the year 1600, Hozenji emerged as the entertainment centre with the traditional performances of Kabuki and Bunraku. The city is surrounded by temples that cater to the performing arts. There is a statue of Fudo Myoo at the Hozenji temple, also called Mizukake Fudo by locals, that must be splashed with water to be blessed with luck. People in distress and tourists perform the act and pray in front of them. In the city, you will find shops and restaurants serving authentic teppanyaki and other dishes. 

4) Amemura: Amerikamura or Amemura is located at the youth centre of Osaka. It is an interconnection of narrow lanes that are home to many fashion stores. The city's name, Amemura, translates to American Street, and the idea behind the shopping centre is to sell hip, American, urban, vintage apparel that matches the tastes of youth. The city also has cafes, restaurants, and bars serving both Japanese and non-Japanese cuisine. 

5) Minami: Located in southern Osaka, Minami, or Namba, has the urban city vibe that is a culmination of the modern, while also keeping the old intact. It is the cultural and commercial hub of Osaka, so vibrant neon lights, massive billboards, music, and a fun atmosphere surround it. Along the way, you can have delicious local food. It is also a famous shopping destination, home to international luxury brands, boutiques, and traditional stores. 

Things to do in Osaka

Osaka is about experience and the taste of life. When you are in Osaka, you will be swamped with unique cultural experiences and exciting nightlife. With its stunning skyscrapers, futuristic energy, and deep history, you will get to know Japan in miniature. None of them is missable. To understand and experience Osaka beyond the surface, it will take you 3 to 5 days. The vibrant atmosphere creates an authentic, natural, and captivating experience. You can refer to the compilation of things to do in Osaka below and be prepared to explore. 

1) Osaka Street Food Tour: As the motto of Osaka says, "kuidaore", meaning eat yourself broke, it can be understood that the people love to eat and do cafe or restaurant hopping. Osaka is full of authentic Japanese restaurants and cafes that fit your budget and give you a peek into the culture. The most local thing to do in Osaka is to dine at the regional and street restaurants. 

2) Experience the Tea Ceremony in Dotonbori: The tea ceremony is famous in Japan, where the instructor teaches the art of tea preparation, and on the other hand, you will learn how to keep calm and enjoy the process. Upon taking part, you will be guided to your designated seiza-style seat. The instructor will explain the process of making matcha tea, and at the end, you can enjoy it quietly. 

3) Take a Day trip to Universal Studios Japan: Out of the six locations in which Universal Studios have been opened, Japan is one of them. It is located in Osaka. The design and structure of the park are similar to the Florida studios. The major attractions at the park are the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Sing on Tour, Live Rock and Roll Show, rides, and games. This is a must-do on your vacation. 

4) Pray at the Namba Yasaka Jinja Shinto Shrine: The Namba Yasaka Jinja Shinto Shrine is for the Gion worship, dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The history of this temple is vague, as it dates back to 1069, a date that is still unconfirmed. With such a long history, people have been paying their respects and praying to Gozu Tenno, the god who protects against epidemics. Japanese culture places great value and respect on deities, so you should visit them. 

5) Explore the local markets: For the foodies and the shoppers, Osaka is a paradise. Many traditional shopping markets still retain their charm. These markets have kept the culture alive in the time of digitisation. Some of the most famous markets are the Kuromon Ichiba Market, Ikuno Korea Town, Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, Amemura, Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shotengai, Shi-Tennoji Temple Market, Ashiharabashi Up Market, Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, and Tempozan Market Place. 

6) Visit the Osaka Aquarium: The aquarium in Osaka is one of the best in the world. There are many kinds of fish and other aquatic animals in the aquarium, such as whale sharks, manta rays, tiger sharks, leopard sharks, octopuses, tortoises, and more. The tickets are more expensive than at other aquariums, but the experience justifies the price. 

Best Time to Visit Osaka

When visiting Osaka, it is advisable to choose the right time to enhance your experience. Osaka is pretty temperate year-round. No climate in Osaka causes severe weather. Still, the peak season is in Spring, from March to May, and in Fall, from October to November. The spring season ranges from 10 to 22 degrees Celsius, and the autumn season ranges from 15 to 23 degrees Celsius. You can also attend Hanami, cherry blossom-viewing festivals, in early April.

If you want your Osaka trip to be on a budget and avoid the crowds, consider traveling in the Summer, when the weather is hot and humid, or in winter, when it gets cold. Osaka also experiences the rainy season from mid-June to late July, but it does not rain every day so that you can travel then too. 

Food to Try in Osaka

Food enthusiasts know that Japanese food, or washoku, mainly focuses on rice, miso soup, seasonal ingredients, and that the diverse dishes do their magic. That particular diversity distinguishes the food and adds authenticity. Japanese cuisine is all about balance, freshness, and rich flavors. Food is prepared in Osaka like it is an art, with proper method and creativity. When you are in Osaka, not trying the traditional local food would be a shame. So, leave no place for regret, and Japanese food will not disappoint you. 

• Takoyaki
• Okonomiyaki
• Kushikatsu
• Kitsune Udon
• Ikayaki
• Butaman
• Oden
• Mitarashi-Dango
• Daifuku Mochi
• Torikara
• Taiyaki
• Udon
• Ramen
• Soba
• Yakitori
• Taiko Manju
• Sashimi
• Sushi
• Patit Tai
• Kappo

Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Osaka

• Opt for a comfortable backpack and organize your necessities.
• Make sure that you pack lightly.
• Pack some warm and comfortable clothes as well.
• Carry both cash and cards for payment, just in case.
• Download an offline map on your phone.
• Learn some basic Japanese phrases for meeting and greeting.
• Carry your reusable water bottle.
• Be aware of your belongings and valuables in public.
• Tipping is not necessary.