Osaka, Japan

Itineraries to Beat in Osaka

Japan has so many places to explore, but if you want a city experience different from Tokyo, Osaka is a great option. It offers the hustle and bustle but, at the same time, is close enough for day trips to serene, zen experiences like Kyoto and Himeji Castle.

Some of my notable spots and experiences from Osaka.

Osaka Castle

A stroll around Osaka Castle provided a serene walk and great photo opportunities.

Take a stroll along the grounds with the castle as the anchor. There is a moat and greenery to take in.

There is a fee to go inside if you are interested in its history. You can book skip-the-line tickets in advance, such as on Klook.

Osaka Castle offers a spectacular view of the reconstructed castle from 1930 with modern accessibility inside.

Another fantastic castle to visit is Himeji Castle, which requires a day trip but is memorable if you want to see an original castle from the inside.

Osaka Aquarium

On the way to the aquarium, we see a Ferris wheel that becomes our beacon.

We walk more quickly towards it.

The walk through the plaza and shopping area is pleasant as we reach our destination.

You wouldn’t think an aquarium would be for adults, but it was such a fun and memorable experience. This aquarium offers so many personal and varied exhibits that children and adults would enjoy exploring and learning together.

Up close and personal.

Fantastic souvenirs and gifts for animal lovers in your life.

After all the exploring and walking at the aquarium, stop by Sushi Hikari for dinner. Leaving the beautifully lit Ferris wheel behind us.

Sushi Hikari

It is a short walk from the aquarium. This is a great restaurant with a fantastic sushi omakase set, and what a fun, wonderful chef!

Not only was he entertaining and told great stories in English as we watched him work, but his food and hospitality were also excellent.

Admiring his cookware, I asked him where I could also purchase something similar, and he recommended the Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street for cookware! Needless to say, that immediately went on my list of must-visit places.

Highly recommend this restaurant, chef, and the omakase set if you get the chance (and can get in)! He did turn away interested parties while we were there.

Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street

If you want to buy kitchenware and cookware, look no further. Wow, I LOVED this area! This is a must-visit for anyone in the food industry or who loves to bake, cook, and host.

So many stores line this street, with a variety of cookware and everything you need.

You will need some balance skills for the best choices! You know what I’m talking about now, right? Be very aware of where your backpack, purse, and bags are as you peruse so you don’t accidentally knock something over.

It was very difficult to balance what I wanted to buy and what I could carry back home.

Found the adorable soy sauce and sauce dispensers I was looking for!!!

I also grabbed these dobins, or I see them as adorable kettles, inspired by a restaurant experience where they put soup into them.

So many storefronts and choices! Have at it!

Think about your game plan if you want to come here and bring a bunch of things home! With whatever remaining time you have left, check out the Dotonbori area!

Dontoburi

On a trip to Osaka, we must see what it is like at the famous Dotonbori area! There is a variety of food and tourist shopping experiences.

Snap a photo with the famous Glico Running Man above the Ebisubashi Bridge. Then come and pick a street food that calls to you!

Day vs. night.

Come at peak times to see what it’s like with the lights and food aromas surrounding you. It feels like Universal Studios, with the huge lights and larger-than-life billboards.

I’d recommend going a little earlier so it doesn’t get too crowded or the popular items sell out, like this crab. That said, don’t be too disappointed if it does; there is lots of delicious food elsewhere. It is more fun to grab food for the experience.

Universal Studios Japan

If you love amusement parks, it might be worth seeing some of the differences this place offers. The food is creative and well executed, and the character experiences differ from those in the States. Here are some of my favorite differences.

Merchandise is also on another level.

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Other Notable Foods

Honestly, this list can be very long, but I’ll mention a few here.

Fruit

We loved trying muscat grapes from various places. Not all places are equal, and prices vary, but we ate as many as we could and had the best we’ve ever had. So sweet and aromatic, muscat grapes have a distinct flavor if you come across a great one.

You can get them in various forms, including mixed fruit.

Fantastic Coffee

Hakubi Coffee

A coffee shop run by someone passionate about his craft, with great stories and English conversations. Learn about the beans and bring some back with you!