🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 175 (from laksa146)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa175.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/","crawl_time":1750784570,"first_indexed_time":1479471105,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,insideosaka!\/first-time-in-osaka\/ s443","src_root_hash":"13048799723405660375","history_drop_reason":"disallowed","meta_title":"First Time In Osaka - Inside Osaka","meta_descriptions":["Planning a trip to Osaka? This is the place to start. I’ll take you through all the big questions: When, where, why and how. And, of course, how much."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Planning a trip to Osaka? This is the place to start. I’ll take you through all the big questions: When, where, why and how. And, of course, how much.   Why Osaka? What Is Special About Osaka? Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city. In many ways it's the soul of Japan. While Tokyo is polished and pricey, Osaka is laid back and down-to-earth. It’s a great place to experience a large, modern Japanese city in all its glory, but on a more human scale than Tokyo – and for significantly less money. The city is all about great food (and lots of it) and shopping, especially bargain shopping. Best of all, Osaka is packed with friendly and easygoing citizens who are at ease with foreign visitors. Indeed, it’s probably easier to have a good time in Osaka than any other city in Japan. So, if you’re coming to Japan, you owe it to yourself to spend some time in Osaka. It’s always a pleasant surprise!   Osaka Holiday Essentials How Much Time Should I Spend In Osaka? You could easily spend a week in Osaka without feeling bored. But, for most people with limited time, a few days in Osaka would be good. For example, if you’re coming to Japan for 10 days, it would make sense to spend a night and parts of two days in Osaka (and spend the rest of the time in Kyoto and Tokyo).  See my  10 day Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo itinerary  for a complete breakdown of the practicalities.  Of course, if you want to skip Tokyo entirely, you could easily fly into Kansai International Airport and do a Kansai-only itinerary, including just Osaka, Kyoto and  Nara . For some specific  Osaka-Kyoto itineraries , see my  Osaka Itineraries  page, which has itineraries that include both cities.  Should I Visit Osaka or Tokyo? Both Osaka and Tokyo are great examples of a large, modern Japanese city. If you have time, you should visit them both. However, if you want to do a Kansai-only trip, it would be perfectly possible to visit only  Kyoto and Osaka  (and, possibly,  Nara ). This would allow you to see both sides of the Japanese experience: the modern and the traditional. Osaka is big enough and modern enough to give you a glimpse of Japan’s futuristic and hi-tech face, and Kyoto is all about Japan’s ancient traditions. One advantage of doing a Kansai-only trip is that it would involve less travel and would save you a lot of money (especially if you were to fly via Kansai International Airport).  What Should I See In Osaka? What Are Osaka’s Must-See Attractions? Osaka is not really about specific attractions. Rather, it’s a place that you experience in its entirety. You should just wander almost aimless and plunk down for coffee when you feel like it and let the experience of the city wash over you. That said, every visitor to the city should check out the  Kita  and  Minami  districts, as well as the  Osaka Castle Area . For some more ideas of things to see and do in Osaka, check out my  Things to Do in Osaka  page. And, for specific itineraries based on number of days or specific interests, see my  Osaka Itineraries  page.  If you're travelling with children, a must-see destination might be the  Universal Studios Japan theme park  in the Osaka Bay Area.  There's also  Legoland Japan  and the  SCMAGLEV and Railway Park , which are a 50 minute train ride away in Nagoya.  Is Osaka Expensive? What Is A Reasonable Osaka Budget? Japan is probably the cheapest country in the developed world. The only comparable countries are Portugal and Taiwan. Check out the actual numbers on the  Japan: It’s Cheaper Than You Think  page. And, best of all, Osaka is significantly cheaper than Tokyo. Prices for hotels and restaurants in Osaka tend to be at least 30% cheaper than those in Tokyo, sometimes more.   Sample Daily Osaka Budgets (Per Person\/Exchange Rates for Oct 2016) Budget Osaka Trip Pricing Guesthouse accommodation (per person): Y3500 Two simple restaurant meals: Y2000 Public transport: Y1500 One average museum admission: Y800 Sundry purchases: Y1000 Total: Y8800 (about US$87, €77) Mid-Range Osaka Trip Pricing Moderate hotel accommodation (per person\/twin occupancy): Y11,000 Two moderate restaurant meals: Y4000 Public transport plus one taxi ride: Y2500 Two average museum admissions: Y1600 Sundry purchases: Y2000 Total: Y21,100 (about US$208, €186) Where Should I Stay In Osaka? Unlike Kyoto, which has plenty of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), Osaka is all about hotels. There are hotels all across the city, but Osaka is a big place, so you should definitely stay in one of the city’s main urban hubs like Kita, Minami, Central Osaka (Honmachi) or the Osaka Castle Area. For details, see my  Where to Stay in Osaka  page.  If you want recommendations for specific hotels in particular budget ranges, see my advice on the  best Osaka Budget Hotels ,  Mid-Range Hotels ,  Boutique Hotels  and  Luxury Hotels . When’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Osaka? You can visit Osaka all year round – it’s never too hot, too rainy or too cold to visit. The summers (from late June to early September) are hot and humid, but not so hot that you cannot enjoy yourself. The winters (from early December to late March) are usually cold, but not freezing. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with warm to cool temps and generally sunny skies. The late March\/early April cherry blossom season is very popular for tourism to all parts of Japan including Osaka, but it can be hard to get hotel rooms (book well in advance!). For more details on the best seasons to visit, check out my  Best Time to Go to Osaka  page.  Is It Easy To Get Around Osaka? Osaka is a large and sprawling city. But because the subways and trains are so good in Osaka, it’s actually pretty easy to get around. For more details, see my  Getting Around Osaka  page. And here’s a priceless tip: Prepaid cards like Icoca (or Suica or Pasmo) make getting around Osaka by public transport a breeze. See my  Prepaid Cards – Icoca (or Suica and Pasmo ) page for details.  Is It Easy To Travel Around Osaka With Kids? I have two small children and we live in Kyoto but I often take my kids to Osaka because there’s so much for them to do there. My kids absolutely love Osaka. It’s a GREAT place to travel with children. As with the rest of Japan, you don’t have to worry about food safety or crime. And, Osaka has some of the best kid-friendly attractions in all of Japan. For more tips on traveling in Osaka with your kids, check out my  Osaka With Children  page.  Is It Easy To Get Money Out Of ATMs In Osaka? ATMs that work with international bank and credit cards are not as common in Japan as they are in many other countries. But, you can get money out of postal ATMs and ATMs at convenience stores like 7-11. For more on getting money in Japan, see my  Getting Money in Kyoto  page (yes, it’s about Kyoto but most of the information holds true for Osaka). Can I Meet A Geisha In Osaka? It’s not possible to meet a geisha in Osaka, but Kyoto is only 11 minutes away by shinkansen (bullet train). Kyoto is the heart of the geisha world. Read more about  Kyoto geisha  on my companion site  InsideKyoto.com  and to meet geisha themselves, please visit my guided tours site  ChrisRowthorn.com Can I See Sumo Wrestling In Osaka? While Tokyo is the best place in Japan to see sumo wrestling, it’s also possible to see sumo in Osaka. A basho (sumo tournament) is held every March in Osaka, usually from around 12 March to 26 March.  For more details on purchasing tickets, see my  How To See Sumo Wrestling in Osaka Or Kyoto  page. Is Osaka Safe For Travellers? Japan is one of the world’s safest countries. The crime rate is extremely low. People are honest. And, there is no political instability. Of course, you should use normal common sense and female travelers should take the usual precautions (ie, don’t hitchhike alone and don’t walk alone at night in an area that seems dodgy). OK, I Want To Visit! So How Do I Get To Osaka? Osaka is served by two main airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka International Airport (better known as Itami; ITM). Kansai International is Osaka’s (and Kyoto’s) main international airport. Itami is primarily a domestic airport and if you’re flying to\/from another city in Japan, you’ll probably use Itami (note, however, that some domestic flights go via Kansai).  You can check and compare Osaka flight prices and times between multiple airlines on  a flight comparison site . Kansai is about 45 minutes from Osaka by train or bus, while Itami is only about 25 minutes from Osaka by bus, taxi or train\/subway. For full details on these two airports and airport transport see my  Osaka Airport Transport  page.  If you're visiting more cities than just Osaka when you visit Japan, you will want to invest in a Japan Rail Pass. Read my guide about  how to buy a Japan Rail Pass online  or  buy it directly online . Visiting Tokyo and Kyoto? If you're visiting Tokyo and Kyoto as well as Osaka, be sure to check out my  First Time In Tokyo  and  First Time In Kyoto  guides on Inside Osaka's companion websites,  TrulyTokyo.com  and  InsideKyoto.com Osaka District Map \n\nClick an Osaka district for detailed info on attractions, places to eat and accommodation\n\n","attrs_markdown":"[Inside Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/)\n\nYour Osaka Travel Guide\n\n- [Osaka Itineraries](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-itineraries\/)\n- [Osaka Hotels](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-hotels\/)\n- [Osaka Ryokan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-ryokan\/)\n- [Best Osaka Restaurants](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-restaurants\/)\n- [Osaka Districts](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-districts\/)\n- [Best Time To Go To Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-time-to-go-to-osaka\/)\n- [Osaka Map](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-map\/)\n- [First Time In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/)\n- [Osaka Fall Foliage](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-fall-foliage\/)\n\n# First Time In Osaka\nPlanning a trip to Osaka? This is the place to start. I’ll take you through all the big questions: When, where, why and how. And, of course, how much.\n\n![Osaka Castle in evening](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Osaka-Categories\/i-f7XZKj7\/0\/L\/First_Time_in_Osaka-L.jpg)  \nOsaka Castle in evening.\n\n### Why Osaka? What Is Special About Osaka?\nOsaka is Japan’s third-largest city. In many ways it's the soul of Japan. While Tokyo is polished and pricey, Osaka is laid back and down-to-earth. It’s a great place to experience a large, modern Japanese city in all its glory, but on a more human scale than Tokyo – and for significantly less money. The city is all about great food (and lots of it) and shopping, especially bargain shopping. Best of all, Osaka is packed with friendly and easygoing citizens who are at ease with foreign visitors. Indeed, it’s probably easier to have a good time in Osaka than any other city in Japan. So, if you’re coming to Japan, you owe it to yourself to spend some time in Osaka. It’s always a pleasant surprise\\!\n\n#### Osaka Holiday Essentials\n- **Where To Stay In Osaka:** See our guide to the best areas and [the best hotels to stay in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/?utm_source=IO-osaka_tickbox).\n- **Things To Do In Osaka:** Check this [overview of Osaka activities](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/things-to-do-in-osaka\/?utm_source=IO-osaka_tickbox) with links to all the key information.\n- **Flights To Osaka:** Find the cheapest flights to Osaka and flight times from scores of airlines with [Skyscanner](https:\/\/www.skyscanner.net\/g\/referrals\/v1\/flights\/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024).\n- **Osaka Packing List:** Don’t forget to take any of the essentials with our comprehensive [Packing List For Japan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/packing-list-for-japan\/?utm_source=IO-osaka_tickbox).\n- **Travel Insurance:** [World Nomads](https:\/\/www.tkqlhce.com\/click-8149427-15371527) offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Claim online anywhere in the world.\n### How Much Time Should I Spend In Osaka?\nYou could easily spend a week in Osaka without feeling bored. But, for most people with limited time, a few days in Osaka would be good. For example, if you’re coming to Japan for 10 days, it would make sense to spend a night and parts of two days in Osaka (and spend the rest of the time in Kyoto and Tokyo). See my [10 day Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-kyoto-tokyo-10-day-itinerary\/) for a complete breakdown of the practicalities.\n\nOf course, if you want to skip Tokyo entirely, you could easily fly into Kansai International Airport and do a Kansai-only itinerary, including just Osaka, Kyoto and [Nara](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/nara-travel-guide). For some specific [Osaka-Kyoto itineraries](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-kyoto-1-week-itinerary\/), see my [Osaka Itineraries](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-itineraries\/) page, which has itineraries that include both cities.\n\nBest Osaka Luxury Hotel\n\n[![St.Regis](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![St.Regis](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-rzdZ8Nx\/0\/LbV46rjwHhHtLznh2CPHptsZbhGjzXH5wmhVzNwTK\/180x180\/i-rzdZ8Nx-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-01)\n\n[St.Regis](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-02)Central[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-03)\n\n[![Marriott Miyako](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Marriott Miyako](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-gSnHkxv\/0\/LNd4XWnhFtzXckXg6mfpsJ7SBQWLx6K4pLGK8jgxc\/180x180\/i-gSnHkxv-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/osaka-marriott-miyako.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-04)\n\n[Marriott Miyako](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/osaka-marriott-miyako.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-05)Tennoji[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/osaka-marriott-miyako.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-06)\n\n[![InterContinental](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![InterContinental](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-pSTb4Pm\/0\/NRvV8BtNKHsctQxmNZmkxFNH7fCnMmg92fpbMTkpq\/180x180\/i-pSTb4Pm-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/intercontinental-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-07)\n\n[InterContinental](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/intercontinental-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-08)Kita[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/intercontinental-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-09)\n\n[![Ritz-Carlton](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Ritz-Carlton](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-wmGZnnQ\/0\/NN7Fx64H6tbSwMjZxWjLr5RcH2JLhDvSBzmw83qX6\/180x180\/i-wmGZnnQ-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/the-ritz-carlton-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-10)\n\n[Ritz-Carlton](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/the-ritz-carlton-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-11)Kita[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/the-ritz-carlton-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-12)\n### Should I Visit Osaka or Tokyo?\nBoth Osaka and Tokyo are great examples of a large, modern Japanese city. If you have time, you should visit them both. However, if you want to do a Kansai-only trip, it would be perfectly possible to visit only [Kyoto and Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-kyoto-1-week-itinerary\/) (and, possibly, [Nara](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/nara-travel-guide)). This would allow you to see both sides of the Japanese experience: the modern and the traditional. Osaka is big enough and modern enough to give you a glimpse of Japan’s futuristic and hi-tech face, and Kyoto is all about Japan’s ancient traditions. One advantage of doing a Kansai-only trip is that it would involve less travel and would save you a lot of money (especially if you were to fly via Kansai International Airport).\n\n## Check Osaka Hotel Availability\n### What Should I See In Osaka? What Are Osaka’s Must-See Attractions?\nOsaka is not really about specific attractions. Rather, it’s a place that you experience in its entirety. You should just wander almost aimless and plunk down for coffee when you feel like it and let the experience of the city wash over you. That said, every visitor to the city should check out the [Kita](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/kita-and-umeda-area\/) and [Minami](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/minami-area\/) districts, as well as the [Osaka Castle Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-castle-area\/). For some more ideas of things to see and do in Osaka, check out my [Things to Do in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/things-to-do-in-osaka\/) page. And, for specific itineraries based on number of days or specific interests, see my [Osaka Itineraries](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-itineraries\/) page.\n\nIf you're travelling with children, a must-see destination might be the [Universal Studios Japan theme park](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/universal-studios-japan-guide\/) in the Osaka Bay Area. There's also [Legoland Japan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/legoland-japan-guide\/) and the [SCMAGLEV and Railway Park](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/nagoyas-scmaglev-and-railway-park-a-full-guide\/), which are a 50 minute train ride away in Nagoya.\n\nTop Activities In Osaka\n\n[![Visitors walk around in front of a 3D model of the Universal Studios logo against a forest of trees and blue sky at the Universal Studios theme park in Osaka, Japan](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Visitors walk around in front of a 3D model of the Universal Studios logo against a forest of trees and blue sky at the Universal Studios theme park in Osaka, Japan](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-89kQpMP\/0\/L4qdB59D2DMwwhdkVh8b967THwxG2kMKdq9fkKcJJ\/180x180\/universal-small-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/universal-studios-japan-guide\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01)\n\n[Universal   Studios Japan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/universal-studios-japan-guide\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Must-see family   \n theme park with   \n film-themed rides[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/universal-studios-japan-guide\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03)\n\n[![A view of Tsutenkaku Tower at the end of one of the streets of Shinsekai, Osaka, Japan, with colorful building frontage and a collage of Japanese text](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![A view of Tsutenkaku Tower at the end of one of the streets of Shinsekai, Osaka, Japan, with colorful building frontage and a collage of Japanese text](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-zw3H8zm\/0\/MTmj4F7xMCrbfXznfVZST3D9NN5mfvMdgVLwSk8LL\/180x180\/02-shinseki-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-shinsekai-food-tour\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01)\n\n[Shinsekai   Food Tour](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-shinsekai-food-tour\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Eat your way through   \n 13 different dishes of   \n Japanese cuisine[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-shinsekai-food-tour\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03)\n\n[![A small child silhouetted against the glow of an orange egg sculpture at the teamLab Botanical Garden exhibition in Osaka, Japan](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![A small child silhouetted against the glow of an orange egg sculpture at the teamLab Botanical Garden exhibition in Osaka, Japan](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-HKk87xm\/0\/MXjZVV7N8z2LWBCXkt9hmD6FC52PkgqvX7dp92ZNW\/180x180\/03-teamlab-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01)\n\n[teamLab   Botanical Garden](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Illuminations amidst   \n stunning nature at   \n teamLab’s art garden[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03)\n\n[![The 400-year old white façade of Himeji Castle in Osaka, Japan, against the blue sky with clouds](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![The 400-year old white façade of Himeji Castle in Osaka, Japan, against the blue sky with clouds](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-pDHWsSz\/0\/Kv6M2S457mwkCCgznvCD5JfBVRP3GW9q7bbf2Nh3m\/180x180\/04-himeji-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01)\n\n[Himeji Castle   Day Trip](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Explore Hyogo’s   \n sights in an all-in-one   \n day trip from Osaka[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03)\n### Is Osaka Expensive? What Is A Reasonable Osaka Budget?\nJapan is probably the cheapest country in the developed world. The only comparable countries are Portugal and Taiwan. Check out the actual numbers on the [Japan: It’s Cheaper Than You Think](http:\/\/www.chrisrowthorn.com\/japan_prices.html) page. And, best of all, Osaka is significantly cheaper than Tokyo. Prices for hotels and restaurants in Osaka tend to be at least 30% cheaper than those in Tokyo, sometimes more.\n\nBest Mid-Range & Business Hotels in Osaka\n\n[![Cross Hotel](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Cross Hotel](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-Gvsxdzj\/0\/L78tnLKVkMZ7T3mLp2bkWNb28SqTJ7F46sZvGVSmq\/180x180\/i-Gvsxdzj-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-01)\n\n[Cross Hotel](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-02)Minami[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-03)\n\n[![Mitsui Garden](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Mitsui Garden](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-BdfB6gG\/0\/M4fDsrMqFtjWjm2vm3WWrVVbRzkTksBrtTsftZSSn\/180x180\/i-BdfB6gG-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/mitsui-garden-osaka-premier.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-04)\n\n[Mitsui Garden](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/mitsui-garden-osaka-premier.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-05)Kita[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/mitsui-garden-osaka-premier.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-06)\n\n[![Hotel Brighton](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Hotel Brighton](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-gFcWDSv\/0\/KfZMxhDZ8D3SXMfJmsJpzwbWJTD4wmrdTKzvSFCQG\/180x180\/i-gFcWDSv-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/brighton-city-osaka-kitahama.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-07)\n\n[Hotel Brighton](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/brighton-city-osaka-kitahama.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-08)Central Osaka[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/brighton-city-osaka-kitahama.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-09)\n\n[![MYSTAYS Sakaisuji](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![MYSTAYS Sakaisuji](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-dZ3Hfrg\/0\/MCb2XcR2VhSpxQZpQv3Lrk4JbZ7VvtGMV5f8g4B3q\/180x180\/i-dZ3Hfrg-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/mystays-inn-sakaisuji-honmachi.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-10)\n\n[MYSTAYS Sakaisuji](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/mystays-inn-sakaisuji-honmachi.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-11)Central Osaka[More Info](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/mystays-inn-sakaisuji-honmachi.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-12)\n### Sample Daily Osaka Budgets (Per Person\/Exchange Rates for Oct 2016)\n##### Budget Osaka Trip Pricing\n- Guesthouse accommodation (per person): Y3500\n- Two simple restaurant meals: Y2000\n- Public transport: Y1500\n- One average museum admission: Y800\n- Sundry purchases: Y1000\n- Total: Y8800 (about US\\$87, €77)\n##### Mid-Range Osaka Trip Pricing\n- Moderate hotel accommodation (per person\/twin occupancy): Y11,000\n- Two moderate restaurant meals: Y4000\n- Public transport plus one taxi ride: Y2500\n- Two average museum admissions: Y1600\n- Sundry purchases: Y2000\n- Total: Y21,100 (about US\\$208, €186)\n### Where Should I Stay In Osaka?\nUnlike Kyoto, which has plenty of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), Osaka is all about hotels. There are hotels all across the city, but Osaka is a big place, so you should definitely stay in one of the city’s main urban hubs like Kita, Minami, Central Osaka (Honmachi) or the Osaka Castle Area. For details, see my [Where to Stay in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/) page. If you want recommendations for specific hotels in particular budget ranges, see my advice on the [best Osaka Budget Hotels](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-budget-hotels\/), [Mid-Range Hotels](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-mid-range-and-business-hotels\/), [Boutique Hotels](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-boutique-hotels\/) and [Luxury Hotels](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-luxury-hotels\/).\n\n### When’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Osaka?\nYou can visit Osaka all year round – it’s never too hot, too rainy or too cold to visit. The summers (from late June to early September) are hot and humid, but not so hot that you cannot enjoy yourself. The winters (from early December to late March) are usually cold, but not freezing. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with warm to cool temps and generally sunny skies.\n\nThe late March\/early April cherry blossom season is very popular for tourism to all parts of Japan including Osaka, but it can be hard to get hotel rooms (book well in advance!). For more details on the best seasons to visit, check out my [Best Time to Go to Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-time-to-go-to-osaka\/) page.\n\nBest Budget Hotels in Osaka\n\n[![City Plaza](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![City Plaza](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-H7wJsJd\/0\/NMfxHqr437DnZqVFfMZGXjnrJ2X2KcbWW3g3mvLBj\/180x180\/i-H7wJsJd-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?CID=1759498&pcs=1&hid=287699&tag=IO-HBOsakaBudgetHotels-01)\n\n[City Plaza](https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?CID=1759498&pcs=1&hid=287699&tag=IO-HBOsakaBudgetHotels-02)Central Osaka[More Info](https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?CID=1759498&pcs=1&hid=287699&tag=IO-HBOsakaBudgetHotels-03)\n\n[![Hearton Hotel](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Hearton Hotel](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-CCRZ7xB\/0\/L4nTghvsnNfZLfVFfT4Tv8VhF3zWG6PSXLFb4pcKx\/180x180\/i-CCRZ7xB-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/hearton-shinsaibashi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-04)\n\n[Hearton Hotel](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/hearton-shinsaibashi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-05)Minami[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/hearton-shinsaibashi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-06)\n\n[![The Lutheran](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![The Lutheran](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-QvtqvNP\/0\/NGtBNZTq56FvqxGNcxxmqSp47tNhhsHG5wbtCZ3tM\/180x180\/i-QvtqvNP-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/the-lutheran.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-07)\n\n[The Lutheran](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/the-lutheran.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-08)Osaka Castle[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/the-lutheran.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-09)\n\n[![Super Hotel](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Super Hotel](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-dkHCNjK\/0\/NVK3hgSPgS7w5zVv4WC5P4CXpcDGpc7qFFsh8Vngn\/180x180\/i-dkHCNjK-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/super-jr-shin-osaka-higashiguchi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-10)\n\n[Super Hotel](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/super-jr-shin-osaka-higashiguchi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-11)Shin-Osaka[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/super-jr-shin-osaka-higashiguchi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-12)\n### Is It Easy To Get Around Osaka?\nOsaka is a large and sprawling city. But because the subways and trains are so good in Osaka, it’s actually pretty easy to get around. For more details, see my [Getting Around Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/getting-around-osaka\/) page. And here’s a priceless tip: Prepaid cards like Icoca (or Suica or Pasmo) make getting around Osaka by public transport a breeze. See my [Prepaid Cards – Icoca (or Suica and Pasmo](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/prepaid-cards-icoca-suica-and-pasmo\/)) page for details.\n\n### Is It Easy To Travel Around Osaka With Kids?\nI have two small children and we live in Kyoto but I often take my kids to Osaka because there’s so much for them to do there. My kids absolutely love Osaka. It’s a GREAT place to travel with children. As with the rest of Japan, you don’t have to worry about food safety or crime. And, Osaka has some of the best kid-friendly attractions in all of Japan. For more tips on traveling in Osaka with your kids, check out my [Osaka With Children](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-with-children\/) page.\n\n### Is It Easy To Get Money Out Of ATMs In Osaka?\nATMs that work with international bank and credit cards are not as common in Japan as they are in many other countries. But, you can get money out of postal ATMs and ATMs at convenience stores like 7-11. For more on getting money in Japan, see my [Getting Money in Kyoto](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/getting-money-in-kyoto) page (yes, it’s about Kyoto but most of the information holds true for Osaka).\n\n### Can I Meet A Geisha In Osaka?\nIt’s not possible to meet a geisha in Osaka, but Kyoto is only 11 minutes away by shinkansen (bullet train). Kyoto is the heart of the geisha world. Read more about [Kyoto geisha](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/kyoto-geisha) on my companion site [InsideKyoto.com](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/kyoto-geisha) and to meet geisha themselves, please visit my guided tours site [ChrisRowthorn.com](http:\/\/www.chrisrowthorn.com\/)\n\nBest Osaka Boutique Hotels\n\n[![Cross Hotel](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Cross Hotel](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-Gvsxdzj\/0\/L78tnLKVkMZ7T3mLp2bkWNb28SqTJ7F46sZvGVSmq\/180x180\/i-Gvsxdzj-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-01)\n\n[Cross Hotel](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-02)Minami[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-03)\n\n[![KOKO HOTEL Osaka Namba](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![KOKO HOTEL Osaka Namba](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-Kmqt4JT\/0\/d7a7d147\/180x180\/i-Kmqt4JT-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/koko-osaka-nanba.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-04)\n\n[KOKO HOTEL](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/koko-osaka-nanba.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-05)Minami[More Info](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/koko-osaka-nanba.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-06)\n\n[![Bali Tower](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Bali Tower](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-dQQ3TGs\/0\/M3CZr6bRJ9b4FVdf2xgxxFdsTTrVvB38DVgkJNZr8\/180x180\/i-dQQ3TGs-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/bali-tower-osaka-tennoji.fr.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-07)\n\n[Bali Tower](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/bali-tower-osaka-tennoji.fr.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-08)Tennoji[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/bali-tower-osaka-tennoji.fr.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-09)\n\n[![St. Regis](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![St. Regis](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-rzdZ8Nx\/0\/LbV46rjwHhHtLznh2CPHptsZbhGjzXH5wmhVzNwTK\/180x180\/i-rzdZ8Nx-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-10)\n\n[St. Regis](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-11)Central Osaka[More Info](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-12)\n### Can I See Sumo Wrestling In Osaka?\nWhile Tokyo is the best place in Japan to see sumo wrestling, it’s also possible to see sumo in Osaka. A basho (sumo tournament) is held every March in Osaka, usually from around 12 March to 26 March. For more details on purchasing tickets, see my [How To See Sumo Wrestling in Osaka Or Kyoto](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/how-to-see-sumo-in-osaka-or-kyoto\/) page.\n\n### Is Osaka Safe For Travellers?\nJapan is one of the world’s safest countries. The crime rate is extremely low. People are honest. And, there is no political instability. Of course, you should use normal common sense and female travelers should take the usual precautions (ie, don’t hitchhike alone and don’t walk alone at night in an area that seems dodgy).\n\nPractical Osaka\n\n[![A spring time view of Osaka Castle framed by cherry blossoms next to some office buildings and against a bright blue sky](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![A spring time view of Osaka Castle framed by cherry blossoms next to some office buildings and against a bright blue sky](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-gQ2RKmG\/0\/LZQ4qVPgHH2CkM7SCdb2nsXfQgbnzbxM2xgF4LNSm\/180x180\/IO-practical-grid-01-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-itineraries\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01)\n\n[Osaka   Itineraries](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-itineraries\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)Make the most of your   \n trip with tailored   \n Osaka itineraries[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-itineraries\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03)\n\n[![Night view of Osaka’s Kita district with modern, illuminated buildings and a broad purple sky](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Night view of Osaka’s Kita district with modern, illuminated buildings and a broad purple sky](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-tStmSnM\/0\/MDXGzVTLNtVrT7fFGvSxvjpqrF7bnq3NGMZwjBCv6\/180x180\/IO-practical-grid-03-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01)\n\n[Where To Stay   In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)Our rundown of   \n the best areas   \n to stay in Osaka[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03)\n\n[![Visitors walk beneath the garish neon colours of the Dotombori Arcade in Osaka at night](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Visitors walk beneath the garish neon colours of the Dotombori Arcade in Osaka at night](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-pJ2T8hC\/0\/MFsnM439bWhgdLffXS76kkwKrHrnj2VtKTKP8CFR7\/180x180\/IO-practical-grid-02a-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/things-to-do-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01)\n\n[Things To Do   In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/things-to-do-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)An overview of   \n the best activities   \n for an Osaka visit[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/things-to-do-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03)\n\n[![A view of the illuminated Osaka Castle and grounds in early evening with a backdrop of office high-rise blocks](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![A view of the illuminated Osaka Castle and grounds in early evening with a backdrop of office high-rise blocks](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Activities-Grid\/i-H2QLqDs\/0\/MnngH862NMvPtCmFNLpC5VD2GL8z5MqTd895rtVqL\/180x180\/IO-practical-grid-04-180x180.jpg)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01)\n\n[First Time   In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)Answers to all   \n the big questions   \n for an Osaka trip[More Info](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03)\n### OK, I Want To Visit! So How Do I Get To Osaka?\nOsaka is served by two main airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka International Airport (better known as Itami; ITM). Kansai International is Osaka’s (and Kyoto’s) main international airport. Itami is primarily a domestic airport and if you’re flying to\/from another city in Japan, you’ll probably use Itami (note, however, that some domestic flights go via Kansai).\n\nYou can check and compare Osaka flight prices and times between multiple airlines on [a flight comparison site](https:\/\/www.skyscanner.net\/g\/referrals\/v1\/flights\/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024).\n\nKansai is about 45 minutes from Osaka by train or bus, while Itami is only about 25 minutes from Osaka by bus, taxi or train\/subway. For full details on these two airports and airport transport see my [Osaka Airport Transport](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/how-to-get-to-osaka-and-osaka-airport-transport\/) page.\n\nIf you're visiting more cities than just Osaka when you visit Japan, you will want to invest in a Japan Rail Pass. Read my guide about [how to buy a Japan Rail Pass online](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/japan-rail-pass-is-it-worth-it\/) or [buy it directly online](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=1591&aff_adid=616549&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F1420-7-day-whole-japan-rail-pass-jr-pass%2F).\n\n##### Visiting Tokyo and Kyoto?\nIf you're visiting Tokyo and Kyoto as well as Osaka, be sure to check out my [First Time In Tokyo](https:\/\/trulytokyo.com\/first-time-in-tokyo\/) and [First Time In Kyoto](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/first-time-in-kyoto) guides on Inside Osaka's companion websites, [TrulyTokyo.com](https:\/\/trulytokyo.com\/) and [InsideKyoto.com](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='64'%20height='0'%20viewBox='0%200%2064%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/wp-content\/themes\/eleven40\/images\/map-icon-64x64.png)\n\n### Where Are These Places Located?\nSee these places on the Inside Osaka Google map:\n\n- [Open the Osaka map](https:\/\/drive.google.com\/open?id=1UH-AYWT1VJYmMXJARkffq6a7MTY&usp=sharing)\n- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.\n- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.\n- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels \/ Ryokan \/ Guesthouses \\| VIOLET: Ryokan \\| PINK: Places to Eat \\| GREEN: Shops \\| YELLOW: Things to See and Do\n- If you’re using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.\n\n### Osaka Vacation Checklist\n- [ESSENTIALS](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-01) – For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my [First Time In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-02) guide\n- [HOTELS](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/city\/jp\/osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-Checklist-03) – Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on [Booking.com](https:\/\/sp.booking.com\/city\/jp\/osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-Checklist-04) and [Agoda.com](https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1759498&city=9590&tag=IO-Checklist-05) - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation\n- [WHERE TO STAY](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-06) – Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide [Where To Stay In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-07)\n- [BULLET TRAIN](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fen-US%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2F) – You can buy [shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fen-US%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2F) from Klook - popular routes include [Tokyo to Osaka](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2Froute-1304%2Ftokyo-to-shin-osaka-trains%2F), [Osaka to Kyoto](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2Froute-1457%2Fosaka-to-kyoto-trains%2F) and [Osaka to Tokyo](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2Froute-1306%2Fshin-osaka-to-tokyo-trains%2F)\n- [SIM CARDS](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=877294&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fsearch%2Fresult%2F%3Fquery%3Djapan%2520esim) – You can buy an [eSim to activate in Japan](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=877294&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fsearch%2Fresult%2F%3Fquery%3Djapan%2520esim) or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at [Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airports](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=tokyo%20sim&searchSource=8&partner_id=LAMDN2W&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=IO-Checklist-08) or [Kansai International Airport](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=kansai%20sim&searchSource=8&partner_id=LAMDN2W&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=IO-Checklist-09). You can also rent an [unlimited data pocket wifi router](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=japan%20wifi&searchSource=7&partner_id=LAMDN2W&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=IO-Checklist-10)\n- [PACKING LIST](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/packing-list-for-japan\/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-11) – View my comprehensive [Packing List For Japan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/packing-list-for-japan\/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-12)\n- [FLIGHTS](https:\/\/www.skyscanner.net\/g\/referrals\/v1\/flights\/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024) – Compare flight prices and timings to find the [best Japan flight deals](https:\/\/www.skyscanner.net\/g\/referrals\/v1\/flights\/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024)\n- [JAPAN RAIL PASS](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=1591&aff_adid=616549&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F1420-7-day-whole-japan-rail-pass-jr-pass%2F) – If you’re visiting more than one city, you might save money with a [Japan Rail Pass](https:\/\/affiliate.klook.com\/redirect?aid=1591&aff_adid=616549&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F1420-7-day-whole-japan-rail-pass-jr-pass%2F) – see if [it’s worth it](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/japan-rail-pass-how-to-buy-online\/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-13) for you\n- [TRAVEL INSURANCE](https:\/\/www.tkqlhce.com\/click-8149427-15371527) – [World Nomads](https:\/\/www.tkqlhce.com\/click-8149427-15371527) offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world\n- [WANT HELP?](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/japan-travel-consulting?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-14) – Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at [Japan Travel Consulting](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/japan-travel-consulting?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-15) can help\n### Osaka District Map\nClick an Osaka district for detailed info on attractions, places to eat and accommodation\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='0'%20height='0'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Osaka\/Osaka-Travel-Guide\/i-LxwMsDZ\/0\/O\/osaka-map.png)\n\n- [Shin-Osaka Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/shin-osaka-area\/)\n- [Kita Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/kita-and-umeda-area\/)\n- [Central Osaka Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/central-osaka-honmachi-and-around\/)\n- [Minami Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/minami-area\/)\n- [Tennoji Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/tennoji-and-abeno-area\/)\n- [Osaka Castle Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-castle-area\/)\n- [Osaka Bay Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-bay-area\/)\n\n#### Welcome to insideosaka.com\n![Chris Rowthorn](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='75'%20height='75'%20viewBox='0%200%2075%2075'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Chris Rowthorn](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/wp-content\/themes\/eleven40\/images\/chris-rowthorn-75.jpg)\n\ninsideosaka.com is an online guide to Osaka written by Chris Rowthorn, author of [Lonely Planet Japan](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/exec\/obidos\/external-search?tag=insidekyoto-20&keyword=Lonely+Planet+Japan&mode=blended) guides, founder of [InsideKyoto.com](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/) and [TrulyTokyo.com](https:\/\/trulytokyo.com\/) and long-time Japan resident. [More about Chris](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/about-chris-rowthorn)\n\n#### ChrisRowthorn.com\n[![Chris Rowthorn Tours - private Kyoto and Japan tours](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='150'%20height='100'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20100'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Chris Rowthorn Tours - private Kyoto and Japan tours](https:\/\/insidekyoto.smugmug.com\/Kyoto\/Inside-Kyoto-Blog\/i-8K2ZWWC\/0\/O\/chris-rowthorn-tours-arashiyama.jpg)](https:\/\/www.chrisrowthorn.com\/)\n\nChris Rowthorn's private tours of Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara and Japan. Personal and attentive trip planning and consulting.   \nVisit [ChrisRowthorn.com](https:\/\/www.chrisrowthorn.com\/) and [read customer reviews on TripAdvisor](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/8149427\/type\/dlg\/sid\/IO_CRToursside\/http:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/Attraction_Review-g298564-d2179328-Reviews-Chris_Rowthorn_Tours-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html)\n\n#### First Time In Osaka\n- [First Time In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/first-time-in-osaka\/)\n- [Packing List For Japan 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/packing-list-for-japan\/)\n\n#### Osaka Itineraries\n- [Osaka Itineraries](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-itineraries\/)\n- [Must-See Osaka 1-Day Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/must-see-osaka-1-day-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka 1-Day Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-1-day-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka 1-Day Cherry Blossom Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-1-day-cherry-blossom-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka 1-Day Itinerary with Children](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-1-day-itinerary-with-children\/)\n- [Osaka 2-Day Itinerary with Children](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-2-day-itinerary-with-children\/)\n- [1-Day Osaka Foodie Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/1-day-osaka-foodie-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka Vegetarian Foodie Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-vegetarian-foodie-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka 2-Day Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-2-day-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka 2-Day Itinerary with Children](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-2-day-itinerary-with-children\/)\n- [Osaka 3-Day Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-3-day-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka Shopping Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-shopping-itinerary\/)\n\n#### Japan Travel Insurance\n- [Why You Need Travel Insurance For Japan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/why-you-need-travel-insurance-for-japan\/)\n\n#### Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo Itineraries\n- [Osaka-Kyoto 1-Week Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-kyoto-1-week-itinerary\/)\n- [Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo 10-Day Itinerary](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-kyoto-tokyo-10-day-itinerary\/)\n- [How To Travel From Kyoto To Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/how-to-travel-from-kyoto-to-osaka\/)\n- [How To Travel From Tokyo To Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/how-to-travel-from-tokyo-to-osaka\/)\n- [Japan Rail Pass: How To Buy Online](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/japan-rail-pass-how-to-buy-online\/)\n\n#### Osaka Hotels\n- [Best New Osaka Hotels 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-new-hotels-in-osaka\/)\n- [Osaka Hotels Overview](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-hotels\/)\n- [Where To Stay In Osaka 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/where-to-stay-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Osaka Boutique Hotels 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-boutique-hotels\/)\n- [Osaka Ryokan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-ryokan\/)\n- [Best Osaka Luxury Hotels 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-luxury-hotels\/)\n- [Best Osaka Mid-Range and Business Hotels 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-mid-range-and-business-hotels\/)\n- [Best Osaka Budget Hotels 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-budget-hotels\/)\n- [Best Value Hotels in Osaka 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-value-hotels-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Osaka Hotels for Families 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-hotels-for-families\/)\n- [Most Convenient Hotels for Osaka Airports 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/most-convenient-hotels-for-osaka-airports\/)\n- [The Most Romantic Hotels in Osaka 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/the-most-romantic-hotels-in-osaka\/)\n\n#### Osaka Eating\n- [What To Eat In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/what-to-eat-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Osaka Restaurants](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-restaurants\/)\n- [Eat Like A Local In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/eat-like-a-local-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Curry Rice In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-curry-rice-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best French Restaurants In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-french-restaurants-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Izakaya In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-izakaya-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Kaiseki, Kappo and Other Haute Cuisine In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-kaiseki-kappo-other-haute-cuisine-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Kushikatsu in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-kushikatsu-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-okonomiyaki-in-osaka\/)\n- [Insider’s Guide to Osaka Okonomiyaki Restaurants](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/insiders-guide-to-osaka-okonomiyaki-restaurants\/)\n- [Best Ramen In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-ramen-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Resutoran-gai in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-resutoran-gai-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Soba in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-soba-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Sushi In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-sushi-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Takoyaki in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-takoyaki-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Tonkatsu in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-tonkatsu-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Unagi in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-unagi-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Udon in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-udon-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Vegetarian in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-vegetarian-in-osaka\/)\n- [Best Yakitori in Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-yakitori-in-osaka\/)\n\n#### Things To Do In Osaka\n- [Things To Do In Osaka 2025](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/things-to-do-in-osaka\/)\n- [Osaka Fall Foliage](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-fall-foliage\/)\n- [Osaka Cherry Blossoms – When and Where](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-cherry-blossoms-when-and-where\/)\n- [Osaka with Children](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-with-children\/)\n- [teamLab Botanical Garden in Nagai Park](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park\/)\n- [Universal Studios Japan Guide](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/universal-studios-japan-guide\/)\n- [Himeji Castle and Arima Onsen Day Trip from Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka\/)\n- [UNESCO World Heritage Sites In and Around Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-and-around-osaka\/)\n- [Best Osaka Souvenirs](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-osaka-souvenirs\/)\n- [Osaka Shopping](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-shopping\/)\n- [SIM Cards In Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/sim-cards-in-osaka\/)\n- [A Taste of Osaka by Bike](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/a-taste-of-osaka-by-bike\/)\n- [Den-Den Town Guide](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/den-den-town-guide\/)\n- [Sankyubashi](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/sankyubashi\/)\n- [Nakazakicho](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/nakazakicho\/)\n- [Tenjinbashi](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/tenjinbashi\/)\n- [Shinsekai: A Guide To Osaka’s “New World” District](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/shinsekai\/)\n- [Seven Slopes of Tennoji](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/seven-slopes-of-tennoji\/)\n- [Korea Town (Tsuruhashi)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/korea-town-tsuruhashi\/)\n- [Harukas: Japan’s Tallest Building](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/harukas\/)\n- [Osaka Skyline Views – The Best Views of Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-skyline-views-the-best-views-of-osaka\/)\n- [Osaka’s Streetcars](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-streetcars\/)\n- [Osaka’s Best Green Spaces](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osakas-best-green-spaces\/)\n- [Gay and Lesbian Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/gay-and-lesbian-osaka\/)\n- [Best Day Trips From Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/best-day-trips-from-osaka\/)\n- [Legoland Japan Guide](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/legoland-japan-guide\/)\n- [Nagoya’s SCMAGLEV and Railway Park: A Full Guide](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/nagoyas-scmaglev-and-railway-park-a-full-guide\/)\n\n#### Osaka Districts\n- [Central Osaka (Honmachi And Around)](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/central-osaka-honmachi-and-around\/)\n- [Eastern Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/eastern-osaka\/)\n- [Kita And Umeda Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/kita-and-umeda-area\/)\n- [Minami Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/minami-area\/)\n- [Northern Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/northern-osaka\/)\n- [Osaka Bay Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-bay-area\/)\n- [Osaka Castle Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-castle-area\/)\n- [Shin-Osaka Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/shin-osaka-area\/)\n- [Southern Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/southern-osaka\/)\n- [Tennoji And Abeno Area](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/tennoji-and-abeno-area\/)\n\n#### Getting Around Osaka\n- [Getting Around Osaka](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/getting-around-osaka\/)\n- [How to Get to Osaka and Osaka Airport Transport](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/how-to-get-to-osaka-and-osaka-airport-transport\/)\n- [IC Cards: Icoca, Suica And Pasmo](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/prepaid-cards-icoca-suica-and-pasmo\/)\n- [Pay for Almost Anything with an IC Card on Your iPhone in Japan](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/pay-for-almost-anything-with-an-ic-card-on-your-iphone-in-japan\/)\n- [Osaka Subways and Trains](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-subways-and-trains\/)\n- [Osaka Taxis](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-taxis\/)\n- [Osaka Buses](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/osaka-buses\/)\n\n#### Japan Itineraries\n- [Japan Itineraries Overview](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/japan-itineraries)\n- [1 Week Japan Itinerary: Tokyo and Kyoto](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/1-week-japan-itinerary-kyoto-and-tokyo-7-to-10-days)\n- [7 to 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Hiroshima](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/1-week-japan-itinerary-kyoto-and-tokyo-7-to-10-days)\n- [10 Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto and Takayama](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/10-day-japan-itinerary-tokyo-kyoto-takayama)\n- [10 Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto and Kanazawa](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/10-day-japan-itinerary-tokyo-kyoto-kanazawa)\n- [2 Week Japan Itinerary: The Grand Tour](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/2-week-japan-itinerary-the-grand-tour)\n- [Japan Itinerary For Traveling With Children](https:\/\/www.insidekyoto.com\/japan-itinerary-japan-with-children)\n\n#### Japan Reopens\n- [Can I Travel To Japan Now? June 2025 Update](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/can-i-travel-to-japan-now\/)\n- [Japan Covid Vaccination and Testing Page](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/japan-covid-vaccination-and-testing-page\/)\n- [Japan Mask Rules and Regulations](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/japan-mask-rules-and-regulations\/)\n- [A Guide to the Visit Japan Web app and Japan Entry Procedures](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/a-guide-to-mysos-visit-japan-web-and-japan-entry-procedures\/)\n\nDisclosure: insideosaka.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program,  \n an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk.  \n  \nWorld Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link.   \n We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.\n\nCopyright © 2017–2025 [insideosaka.com](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/). All Rights Reserved. All content [written by Chris Rowthorn](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/about-chris-rowthorn) \\| Photos used with permission \\| [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/insideosaka.com\/privacy-policy\/)\n\n![Clicky](https:\/\/in.getclicky.com\/100994488ns.gif)","attrs_readable_markdown":null,"meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/
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Meta Title	First Time In Osaka - Inside Osaka
Meta Description	Planning a trip to Osaka? This is the place to start. I’ll take you through all the big questions: When, where, why and how. And, of course, how much.
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Boilerpipe Text	Planning a trip to Osaka? This is the place to start. I’ll take you through all the big questions: When, where, why and how. And, of course, how much. Why Osaka? What Is Special About Osaka? Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city. In many ways it's the soul of Japan. While Tokyo is polished and pricey, Osaka is laid back and down-to-earth. It’s a great place to experience a large, modern Japanese city in all its glory, but on a more human scale than Tokyo – and for significantly less money. The city is all about great food (and lots of it) and shopping, especially bargain shopping. Best of all, Osaka is packed with friendly and easygoing citizens who are at ease with foreign visitors. Indeed, it’s probably easier to have a good time in Osaka than any other city in Japan. So, if you’re coming to Japan, you owe it to yourself to spend some time in Osaka. It’s always a pleasant surprise! Osaka Holiday Essentials How Much Time Should I Spend In Osaka? You could easily spend a week in Osaka without feeling bored. But, for most people with limited time, a few days in Osaka would be good. For example, if you’re coming to Japan for 10 days, it would make sense to spend a night and parts of two days in Osaka (and spend the rest of the time in Kyoto and Tokyo). See my 10 day Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo itinerary for a complete breakdown of the practicalities. Of course, if you want to skip Tokyo entirely, you could easily fly into Kansai International Airport and do a Kansai-only itinerary, including just Osaka, Kyoto and Nara . For some specific Osaka-Kyoto itineraries , see my Osaka Itineraries page, which has itineraries that include both cities. Should I Visit Osaka or Tokyo? Both Osaka and Tokyo are great examples of a large, modern Japanese city. If you have time, you should visit them both. However, if you want to do a Kansai-only trip, it would be perfectly possible to visit only Kyoto and Osaka (and, possibly, Nara ). This would allow you to see both sides of the Japanese experience: the modern and the traditional. Osaka is big enough and modern enough to give you a glimpse of Japan’s futuristic and hi-tech face, and Kyoto is all about Japan’s ancient traditions. One advantage of doing a Kansai-only trip is that it would involve less travel and would save you a lot of money (especially if you were to fly via Kansai International Airport). What Should I See In Osaka? What Are Osaka’s Must-See Attractions? Osaka is not really about specific attractions. Rather, it’s a place that you experience in its entirety. You should just wander almost aimless and plunk down for coffee when you feel like it and let the experience of the city wash over you. That said, every visitor to the city should check out the Kita and Minami districts, as well as the Osaka Castle Area . For some more ideas of things to see and do in Osaka, check out my Things to Do in Osaka page. And, for specific itineraries based on number of days or specific interests, see my Osaka Itineraries page. If you're travelling with children, a must-see destination might be the Universal Studios Japan theme park in the Osaka Bay Area. There's also Legoland Japan and the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park , which are a 50 minute train ride away in Nagoya. Is Osaka Expensive? What Is A Reasonable Osaka Budget? Japan is probably the cheapest country in the developed world. The only comparable countries are Portugal and Taiwan. Check out the actual numbers on the Japan: It’s Cheaper Than You Think page. And, best of all, Osaka is significantly cheaper than Tokyo. Prices for hotels and restaurants in Osaka tend to be at least 30% cheaper than those in Tokyo, sometimes more. Sample Daily Osaka Budgets (Per Person/Exchange Rates for Oct 2016) Budget Osaka Trip Pricing Guesthouse accommodation (per person): Y3500 Two simple restaurant meals: Y2000 Public transport: Y1500 One average museum admission: Y800 Sundry purchases: Y1000 Total: Y8800 (about US$87, €77) Mid-Range Osaka Trip Pricing Moderate hotel accommodation (per person/twin occupancy): Y11,000 Two moderate restaurant meals: Y4000 Public transport plus one taxi ride: Y2500 Two average museum admissions: Y1600 Sundry purchases: Y2000 Total: Y21,100 (about US$208, €186) Where Should I Stay In Osaka? Unlike Kyoto, which has plenty of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), Osaka is all about hotels. There are hotels all across the city, but Osaka is a big place, so you should definitely stay in one of the city’s main urban hubs like Kita, Minami, Central Osaka (Honmachi) or the Osaka Castle Area. For details, see my Where to Stay in Osaka page. If you want recommendations for specific hotels in particular budget ranges, see my advice on the best Osaka Budget Hotels , Mid-Range Hotels , Boutique Hotels and Luxury Hotels . When’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Osaka? You can visit Osaka all year round – it’s never too hot, too rainy or too cold to visit. The summers (from late June to early September) are hot and humid, but not so hot that you cannot enjoy yourself. The winters (from early December to late March) are usually cold, but not freezing. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with warm to cool temps and generally sunny skies. The late March/early April cherry blossom season is very popular for tourism to all parts of Japan including Osaka, but it can be hard to get hotel rooms (book well in advance!). For more details on the best seasons to visit, check out my Best Time to Go to Osaka page. Is It Easy To Get Around Osaka? Osaka is a large and sprawling city. But because the subways and trains are so good in Osaka, it’s actually pretty easy to get around. For more details, see my Getting Around Osaka page. And here’s a priceless tip: Prepaid cards like Icoca (or Suica or Pasmo) make getting around Osaka by public transport a breeze. See my Prepaid Cards – Icoca (or Suica and Pasmo ) page for details. Is It Easy To Travel Around Osaka With Kids? I have two small children and we live in Kyoto but I often take my kids to Osaka because there’s so much for them to do there. My kids absolutely love Osaka. It’s a GREAT place to travel with children. As with the rest of Japan, you don’t have to worry about food safety or crime. And, Osaka has some of the best kid-friendly attractions in all of Japan. For more tips on traveling in Osaka with your kids, check out my Osaka With Children page. Is It Easy To Get Money Out Of ATMs In Osaka? ATMs that work with international bank and credit cards are not as common in Japan as they are in many other countries. But, you can get money out of postal ATMs and ATMs at convenience stores like 7-11. For more on getting money in Japan, see my Getting Money in Kyoto page (yes, it’s about Kyoto but most of the information holds true for Osaka). Can I Meet A Geisha In Osaka? It’s not possible to meet a geisha in Osaka, but Kyoto is only 11 minutes away by shinkansen (bullet train). Kyoto is the heart of the geisha world. Read more about Kyoto geisha on my companion site InsideKyoto.com and to meet geisha themselves, please visit my guided tours site ChrisRowthorn.com Can I See Sumo Wrestling In Osaka? While Tokyo is the best place in Japan to see sumo wrestling, it’s also possible to see sumo in Osaka. A basho (sumo tournament) is held every March in Osaka, usually from around 12 March to 26 March. For more details on purchasing tickets, see my How To See Sumo Wrestling in Osaka Or Kyoto page. Is Osaka Safe For Travellers? Japan is one of the world’s safest countries. The crime rate is extremely low. People are honest. And, there is no political instability. Of course, you should use normal common sense and female travelers should take the usual precautions (ie, don’t hitchhike alone and don’t walk alone at night in an area that seems dodgy). OK, I Want To Visit! So How Do I Get To Osaka? Osaka is served by two main airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka International Airport (better known as Itami; ITM). Kansai International is Osaka’s (and Kyoto’s) main international airport. Itami is primarily a domestic airport and if you’re flying to/from another city in Japan, you’ll probably use Itami (note, however, that some domestic flights go via Kansai). You can check and compare Osaka flight prices and times between multiple airlines on a flight comparison site . Kansai is about 45 minutes from Osaka by train or bus, while Itami is only about 25 minutes from Osaka by bus, taxi or train/subway. For full details on these two airports and airport transport see my Osaka Airport Transport page. If you're visiting more cities than just Osaka when you visit Japan, you will want to invest in a Japan Rail Pass. Read my guide about how to buy a Japan Rail Pass online or buy it directly online . Visiting Tokyo and Kyoto? If you're visiting Tokyo and Kyoto as well as Osaka, be sure to check out my First Time In Tokyo and First Time In Kyoto guides on Inside Osaka's companion websites, TrulyTokyo.com and InsideKyoto.com Osaka District Map Click an Osaka district for detailed info on attractions, places to eat and accommodation
Markdown	[Inside Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/) Your Osaka Travel Guide - [Osaka Itineraries](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-itineraries/) - [Osaka Hotels](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-hotels/) - [Osaka Ryokan](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-ryokan/) - [Best Osaka Restaurants](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-restaurants/) - [Osaka Districts](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-districts/) - [Best Time To Go To Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-time-to-go-to-osaka/) - [Osaka Map](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-map/) - [First Time In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/) - [Osaka Fall Foliage](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-fall-foliage/) # First Time In Osaka Planning a trip to Osaka? This is the place to start. I’ll take you through all the big questions: When, where, why and how. And, of course, how much. ![Osaka Castle in evening](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Osaka-Categories/i-f7XZKj7/0/L/First_Time_in_Osaka-L.jpg) Osaka Castle in evening. ### Why Osaka? What Is Special About Osaka? Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city. In many ways it's the soul of Japan. While Tokyo is polished and pricey, Osaka is laid back and down-to-earth. It’s a great place to experience a large, modern Japanese city in all its glory, but on a more human scale than Tokyo – and for significantly less money. The city is all about great food (and lots of it) and shopping, especially bargain shopping. Best of all, Osaka is packed with friendly and easygoing citizens who are at ease with foreign visitors. Indeed, it’s probably easier to have a good time in Osaka than any other city in Japan. So, if you’re coming to Japan, you owe it to yourself to spend some time in Osaka. It’s always a pleasant surprise\! #### Osaka Holiday Essentials - Where To Stay In Osaka: See our guide to the best areas and [the best hotels to stay in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/?utm_source=IO-osaka_tickbox). - Things To Do In Osaka: Check this [overview of Osaka activities](https://insideosaka.com/things-to-do-in-osaka/?utm_source=IO-osaka_tickbox) with links to all the key information. - Flights To Osaka: Find the cheapest flights to Osaka and flight times from scores of airlines with [Skyscanner](https://www.skyscanner.net/g/referrals/v1/flights/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024). - Osaka Packing List: Don’t forget to take any of the essentials with our comprehensive [Packing List For Japan](https://insideosaka.com/packing-list-for-japan/?utm_source=IO-osaka_tickbox). - Travel Insurance: [World Nomads](https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-8149427-15371527) offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Claim online anywhere in the world. ### How Much Time Should I Spend In Osaka? You could easily spend a week in Osaka without feeling bored. But, for most people with limited time, a few days in Osaka would be good. For example, if you’re coming to Japan for 10 days, it would make sense to spend a night and parts of two days in Osaka (and spend the rest of the time in Kyoto and Tokyo). See my [10 day Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-kyoto-tokyo-10-day-itinerary/) for a complete breakdown of the practicalities. Of course, if you want to skip Tokyo entirely, you could easily fly into Kansai International Airport and do a Kansai-only itinerary, including just Osaka, Kyoto and [Nara](https://www.insidekyoto.com/nara-travel-guide). For some specific [Osaka-Kyoto itineraries](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-kyoto-1-week-itinerary/), see my [Osaka Itineraries](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-itineraries/) page, which has itineraries that include both cities. Best Osaka Luxury Hotel [![St.Regis](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![St.Regis](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-rzdZ8Nx/0/LbV46rjwHhHtLznh2CPHptsZbhGjzXH5wmhVzNwTK/180x180/i-rzdZ8Nx-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-01) [St.Regis](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-02)Central[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-03) [![Marriott Miyako](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Marriott Miyako](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-gSnHkxv/0/LNd4XWnhFtzXckXg6mfpsJ7SBQWLx6K4pLGK8jgxc/180x180/i-gSnHkxv-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/osaka-marriott-miyako.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-04) [Marriott Miyako](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/osaka-marriott-miyako.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-05)Tennoji[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/osaka-marriott-miyako.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-06) [![InterContinental](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![InterContinental](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-pSTb4Pm/0/NRvV8BtNKHsctQxmNZmkxFNH7fCnMmg92fpbMTkpq/180x180/i-pSTb4Pm-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/intercontinental-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-07) [InterContinental](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/intercontinental-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-08)Kita[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/intercontinental-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-09) [![Ritz-Carlton](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Ritz-Carlton](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-wmGZnnQ/0/NN7Fx64H6tbSwMjZxWjLr5RcH2JLhDvSBzmw83qX6/180x180/i-wmGZnnQ-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/the-ritz-carlton-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-10) [Ritz-Carlton](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/the-ritz-carlton-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-11)Kita[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/the-ritz-carlton-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-luxury-hotels-12) ### Should I Visit Osaka or Tokyo? Both Osaka and Tokyo are great examples of a large, modern Japanese city. If you have time, you should visit them both. However, if you want to do a Kansai-only trip, it would be perfectly possible to visit only [Kyoto and Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-kyoto-1-week-itinerary/) (and, possibly, [Nara](https://www.insidekyoto.com/nara-travel-guide)). This would allow you to see both sides of the Japanese experience: the modern and the traditional. Osaka is big enough and modern enough to give you a glimpse of Japan’s futuristic and hi-tech face, and Kyoto is all about Japan’s ancient traditions. One advantage of doing a Kansai-only trip is that it would involve less travel and would save you a lot of money (especially if you were to fly via Kansai International Airport). ## Check Osaka Hotel Availability ### What Should I See In Osaka? What Are Osaka’s Must-See Attractions? Osaka is not really about specific attractions. Rather, it’s a place that you experience in its entirety. You should just wander almost aimless and plunk down for coffee when you feel like it and let the experience of the city wash over you. That said, every visitor to the city should check out the [Kita](https://insideosaka.com/kita-and-umeda-area/) and [Minami](https://insideosaka.com/minami-area/) districts, as well as the [Osaka Castle Area](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-castle-area/). For some more ideas of things to see and do in Osaka, check out my [Things to Do in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/things-to-do-in-osaka/) page. And, for specific itineraries based on number of days or specific interests, see my [Osaka Itineraries](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-itineraries/) page. If you're travelling with children, a must-see destination might be the [Universal Studios Japan theme park](https://insideosaka.com/universal-studios-japan-guide/) in the Osaka Bay Area. There's also [Legoland Japan](https://insideosaka.com/legoland-japan-guide/) and the [SCMAGLEV and Railway Park](https://insideosaka.com/nagoyas-scmaglev-and-railway-park-a-full-guide/), which are a 50 minute train ride away in Nagoya. Top Activities In Osaka [![Visitors walk around in front of a 3D model of the Universal Studios logo against a forest of trees and blue sky at the Universal Studios theme park in Osaka, Japan](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Visitors walk around in front of a 3D model of the Universal Studios logo against a forest of trees and blue sky at the Universal Studios theme park in Osaka, Japan](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-89kQpMP/0/L4qdB59D2DMwwhdkVh8b967THwxG2kMKdq9fkKcJJ/180x180/universal-small-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/universal-studios-japan-guide/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01) [Universal Studios Japan](https://insideosaka.com/universal-studios-japan-guide/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Must-see family theme park with film-themed rides[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/universal-studios-japan-guide/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03) [![A view of Tsutenkaku Tower at the end of one of the streets of Shinsekai, Osaka, Japan, with colorful building frontage and a collage of Japanese text](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![A view of Tsutenkaku Tower at the end of one of the streets of Shinsekai, Osaka, Japan, with colorful building frontage and a collage of Japanese text](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-zw3H8zm/0/MTmj4F7xMCrbfXznfVZST3D9NN5mfvMdgVLwSk8LL/180x180/02-shinseki-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-shinsekai-food-tour/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01) [Shinsekai Food Tour](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-shinsekai-food-tour/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Eat your way through 13 different dishes of Japanese cuisine[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-shinsekai-food-tour/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03) [![A small child silhouetted against the glow of an orange egg sculpture at the teamLab Botanical Garden exhibition in Osaka, Japan](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![A small child silhouetted against the glow of an orange egg sculpture at the teamLab Botanical Garden exhibition in Osaka, Japan](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-HKk87xm/0/MXjZVV7N8z2LWBCXkt9hmD6FC52PkgqvX7dp92ZNW/180x180/03-teamlab-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01) [teamLab Botanical Garden](https://insideosaka.com/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Illuminations amidst stunning nature at teamLab’s art garden[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03) [![The 400-year old white façade of Himeji Castle in Osaka, Japan, against the blue sky with clouds](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![The 400-year old white façade of Himeji Castle in Osaka, Japan, against the blue sky with clouds](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-pDHWsSz/0/Kv6M2S457mwkCCgznvCD5JfBVRP3GW9q7bbf2Nh3m/180x180/04-himeji-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-01) [Himeji Castle Day Trip](https://insideosaka.com/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-02)Explore Hyogo’s sights in an all-in-one day trip from Osaka[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Activities-Grid-03) ### Is Osaka Expensive? What Is A Reasonable Osaka Budget? Japan is probably the cheapest country in the developed world. The only comparable countries are Portugal and Taiwan. Check out the actual numbers on the [Japan: It’s Cheaper Than You Think](http://www.chrisrowthorn.com/japan_prices.html) page. And, best of all, Osaka is significantly cheaper than Tokyo. Prices for hotels and restaurants in Osaka tend to be at least 30% cheaper than those in Tokyo, sometimes more. Best Mid-Range & Business Hotels in Osaka [![Cross Hotel](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Cross Hotel](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Gvsxdzj/0/L78tnLKVkMZ7T3mLp2bkWNb28SqTJ7F46sZvGVSmq/180x180/i-Gvsxdzj-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-01) [Cross Hotel](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-02)Minami[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-03) [![Mitsui Garden](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Mitsui Garden](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-BdfB6gG/0/M4fDsrMqFtjWjm2vm3WWrVVbRzkTksBrtTsftZSSn/180x180/i-BdfB6gG-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/mitsui-garden-osaka-premier.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-04) [Mitsui Garden](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/mitsui-garden-osaka-premier.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-05)Kita[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/mitsui-garden-osaka-premier.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-06) [![Hotel Brighton](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Hotel Brighton](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-gFcWDSv/0/KfZMxhDZ8D3SXMfJmsJpzwbWJTD4wmrdTKzvSFCQG/180x180/i-gFcWDSv-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/brighton-city-osaka-kitahama.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-07) [Hotel Brighton](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/brighton-city-osaka-kitahama.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-08)Central Osaka[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/brighton-city-osaka-kitahama.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-09) [![MYSTAYS Sakaisuji](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![MYSTAYS Sakaisuji](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-dZ3Hfrg/0/MCb2XcR2VhSpxQZpQv3Lrk4JbZ7VvtGMV5f8g4B3q/180x180/i-dZ3Hfrg-180x180.jpg)](https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/mystays-inn-sakaisuji-honmachi.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-10) [MYSTAYS Sakaisuji](https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/mystays-inn-sakaisuji-honmachi.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-11)Central Osaka[More Info](https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/mystays-inn-sakaisuji-honmachi.en-gb.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-mid-range-and-luxury-hotels-grid-12) ### Sample Daily Osaka Budgets (Per Person/Exchange Rates for Oct 2016) ##### Budget Osaka Trip Pricing - Guesthouse accommodation (per person): Y3500 - Two simple restaurant meals: Y2000 - Public transport: Y1500 - One average museum admission: Y800 - Sundry purchases: Y1000 - Total: Y8800 (about US\$87, €77) ##### Mid-Range Osaka Trip Pricing - Moderate hotel accommodation (per person/twin occupancy): Y11,000 - Two moderate restaurant meals: Y4000 - Public transport plus one taxi ride: Y2500 - Two average museum admissions: Y1600 - Sundry purchases: Y2000 - Total: Y21,100 (about US\$208, €186) ### Where Should I Stay In Osaka? Unlike Kyoto, which has plenty of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), Osaka is all about hotels. There are hotels all across the city, but Osaka is a big place, so you should definitely stay in one of the city’s main urban hubs like Kita, Minami, Central Osaka (Honmachi) or the Osaka Castle Area. For details, see my [Where to Stay in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/) page. If you want recommendations for specific hotels in particular budget ranges, see my advice on the [best Osaka Budget Hotels](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-budget-hotels/), [Mid-Range Hotels](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-mid-range-and-business-hotels/), [Boutique Hotels](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-boutique-hotels/) and [Luxury Hotels](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-luxury-hotels/). ### When’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Osaka? You can visit Osaka all year round – it’s never too hot, too rainy or too cold to visit. The summers (from late June to early September) are hot and humid, but not so hot that you cannot enjoy yourself. The winters (from early December to late March) are usually cold, but not freezing. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with warm to cool temps and generally sunny skies. The late March/early April cherry blossom season is very popular for tourism to all parts of Japan including Osaka, but it can be hard to get hotel rooms (book well in advance!). For more details on the best seasons to visit, check out my [Best Time to Go to Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-time-to-go-to-osaka/) page. Best Budget Hotels in Osaka [![City Plaza](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![City Plaza](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-H7wJsJd/0/NMfxHqr437DnZqVFfMZGXjnrJ2X2KcbWW3g3mvLBj/180x180/i-H7wJsJd-180x180.jpg)](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?CID=1759498&pcs=1&hid=287699&tag=IO-HBOsakaBudgetHotels-01) [City Plaza](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?CID=1759498&pcs=1&hid=287699&tag=IO-HBOsakaBudgetHotels-02)Central Osaka[More Info](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?CID=1759498&pcs=1&hid=287699&tag=IO-HBOsakaBudgetHotels-03) [![Hearton Hotel](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Hearton Hotel](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-CCRZ7xB/0/L4nTghvsnNfZLfVFfT4Tv8VhF3zWG6PSXLFb4pcKx/180x180/i-CCRZ7xB-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/hearton-shinsaibashi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-04) [Hearton Hotel](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/hearton-shinsaibashi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-05)Minami[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/hearton-shinsaibashi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-06) [![The Lutheran](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![The Lutheran](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-QvtqvNP/0/NGtBNZTq56FvqxGNcxxmqSp47tNhhsHG5wbtCZ3tM/180x180/i-QvtqvNP-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/the-lutheran.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-07) [The Lutheran](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/the-lutheran.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-08)Osaka Castle[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/the-lutheran.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-09) [![Super Hotel](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Super Hotel](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-dkHCNjK/0/NVK3hgSPgS7w5zVv4WC5P4CXpcDGpc7qFFsh8Vngn/180x180/i-dkHCNjK-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/super-jr-shin-osaka-higashiguchi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-10) [Super Hotel](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/super-jr-shin-osaka-higashiguchi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-11)Shin-Osaka[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/super-jr-shin-osaka-higashiguchi.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-best-osaka-budget-hotels-grid-12) ### Is It Easy To Get Around Osaka? Osaka is a large and sprawling city. But because the subways and trains are so good in Osaka, it’s actually pretty easy to get around. For more details, see my [Getting Around Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/getting-around-osaka/) page. And here’s a priceless tip: Prepaid cards like Icoca (or Suica or Pasmo) make getting around Osaka by public transport a breeze. See my [Prepaid Cards – Icoca (or Suica and Pasmo](https://insideosaka.com/prepaid-cards-icoca-suica-and-pasmo/)) page for details. ### Is It Easy To Travel Around Osaka With Kids? I have two small children and we live in Kyoto but I often take my kids to Osaka because there’s so much for them to do there. My kids absolutely love Osaka. It’s a GREAT place to travel with children. As with the rest of Japan, you don’t have to worry about food safety or crime. And, Osaka has some of the best kid-friendly attractions in all of Japan. For more tips on traveling in Osaka with your kids, check out my [Osaka With Children](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-with-children/) page. ### Is It Easy To Get Money Out Of ATMs In Osaka? ATMs that work with international bank and credit cards are not as common in Japan as they are in many other countries. But, you can get money out of postal ATMs and ATMs at convenience stores like 7-11. For more on getting money in Japan, see my [Getting Money in Kyoto](https://www.insidekyoto.com/getting-money-in-kyoto) page (yes, it’s about Kyoto but most of the information holds true for Osaka). ### Can I Meet A Geisha In Osaka? It’s not possible to meet a geisha in Osaka, but Kyoto is only 11 minutes away by shinkansen (bullet train). Kyoto is the heart of the geisha world. Read more about [Kyoto geisha](https://www.insidekyoto.com/kyoto-geisha) on my companion site [InsideKyoto.com](https://www.insidekyoto.com/kyoto-geisha) and to meet geisha themselves, please visit my guided tours site [ChrisRowthorn.com](http://www.chrisrowthorn.com/) Best Osaka Boutique Hotels [![Cross Hotel](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Cross Hotel](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Gvsxdzj/0/L78tnLKVkMZ7T3mLp2bkWNb28SqTJ7F46sZvGVSmq/180x180/i-Gvsxdzj-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-01) [Cross Hotel](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-02)Minami[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/cross-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-03) [![KOKO HOTEL Osaka Namba](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![KOKO HOTEL Osaka Namba](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Kmqt4JT/0/d7a7d147/180x180/i-Kmqt4JT-180x180.jpg)](https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/koko-osaka-nanba.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-04) [KOKO HOTEL](https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/koko-osaka-nanba.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-05)Minami[More Info](https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/koko-osaka-nanba.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-06) [![Bali Tower](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Bali Tower](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-dQQ3TGs/0/M3CZr6bRJ9b4FVdf2xgxxFdsTTrVvB38DVgkJNZr8/180x180/i-dQQ3TGs-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/bali-tower-osaka-tennoji.fr.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-07) [Bali Tower](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/bali-tower-osaka-tennoji.fr.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-08)Tennoji[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/bali-tower-osaka-tennoji.fr.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-09) [![St. Regis](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![St. Regis](https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-rzdZ8Nx/0/LbV46rjwHhHtLznh2CPHptsZbhGjzXH5wmhVzNwTK/180x180/i-rzdZ8Nx-180x180.jpg)](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-10) [St. Regis](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-11)Central Osaka[More Info](https://sp.booking.com/hotel/jp/st-regis-osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-osaka-boutique-hotel-grid-12) ### Can I See Sumo Wrestling In Osaka? While Tokyo is the best place in Japan to see sumo wrestling, it’s also possible to see sumo in Osaka. A basho (sumo tournament) is held every March in Osaka, usually from around 12 March to 26 March. For more details on purchasing tickets, see my [How To See Sumo Wrestling in Osaka Or Kyoto](https://insideosaka.com/how-to-see-sumo-in-osaka-or-kyoto/) page. ### Is Osaka Safe For Travellers? Japan is one of the world’s safest countries. The crime rate is extremely low. People are honest. And, there is no political instability. Of course, you should use normal common sense and female travelers should take the usual precautions (ie, don’t hitchhike alone and don’t walk alone at night in an area that seems dodgy). Practical Osaka [![A spring time view of Osaka Castle framed by cherry blossoms next to some office buildings and against a bright blue sky](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![A spring time view of Osaka Castle framed by cherry blossoms next to some office buildings and against a bright blue sky](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-gQ2RKmG/0/LZQ4qVPgHH2CkM7SCdb2nsXfQgbnzbxM2xgF4LNSm/180x180/IO-practical-grid-01-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-itineraries/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01) [Osaka Itineraries](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-itineraries/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)Make the most of your trip with tailored Osaka itineraries[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-itineraries/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03) [![Night view of Osaka’s Kita district with modern, illuminated buildings and a broad purple sky](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Night view of Osaka’s Kita district with modern, illuminated buildings and a broad purple sky](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-tStmSnM/0/MDXGzVTLNtVrT7fFGvSxvjpqrF7bnq3NGMZwjBCv6/180x180/IO-practical-grid-03-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01) [Where To Stay In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)Our rundown of the best areas to stay in Osaka[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03) [![Visitors walk beneath the garish neon colours of the Dotombori Arcade in Osaka at night](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Visitors walk beneath the garish neon colours of the Dotombori Arcade in Osaka at night](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-pJ2T8hC/0/MFsnM439bWhgdLffXS76kkwKrHrnj2VtKTKP8CFR7/180x180/IO-practical-grid-02a-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/things-to-do-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01) [Things To Do In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/things-to-do-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)An overview of the best activities for an Osaka visit[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/things-to-do-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03) [![A view of the illuminated Osaka Castle and grounds in early evening with a backdrop of office high-rise blocks](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='auto'%20height='auto'%20viewBox='0%200%20auto%20auto'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![A view of the illuminated Osaka Castle and grounds in early evening with a backdrop of office high-rise blocks](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Activities-Grid/i-H2QLqDs/0/MnngH862NMvPtCmFNLpC5VD2GL8z5MqTd895rtVqL/180x180/IO-practical-grid-04-180x180.jpg)](https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-01) [First Time In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-02)Answers to all the big questions for an Osaka trip[More Info](https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/?utm_source=grid&utm_medium=link&utm_id=IO-Practical-Grid-03) ### OK, I Want To Visit! So How Do I Get To Osaka? Osaka is served by two main airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka International Airport (better known as Itami; ITM). Kansai International is Osaka’s (and Kyoto’s) main international airport. Itami is primarily a domestic airport and if you’re flying to/from another city in Japan, you’ll probably use Itami (note, however, that some domestic flights go via Kansai). You can check and compare Osaka flight prices and times between multiple airlines on [a flight comparison site](https://www.skyscanner.net/g/referrals/v1/flights/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024). Kansai is about 45 minutes from Osaka by train or bus, while Itami is only about 25 minutes from Osaka by bus, taxi or train/subway. For full details on these two airports and airport transport see my [Osaka Airport Transport](https://insideosaka.com/how-to-get-to-osaka-and-osaka-airport-transport/) page. If you're visiting more cities than just Osaka when you visit Japan, you will want to invest in a Japan Rail Pass. Read my guide about [how to buy a Japan Rail Pass online](https://insideosaka.com/japan-rail-pass-is-it-worth-it/) or [buy it directly online](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=1591&aff_adid=616549&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F1420-7-day-whole-japan-rail-pass-jr-pass%2F). ##### Visiting Tokyo and Kyoto? If you're visiting Tokyo and Kyoto as well as Osaka, be sure to check out my [First Time In Tokyo](https://trulytokyo.com/first-time-in-tokyo/) and [First Time In Kyoto](https://www.insidekyoto.com/first-time-in-kyoto) guides on Inside Osaka's companion websites, [TrulyTokyo.com](https://trulytokyo.com/) and [InsideKyoto.com](https://www.insidekyoto.com/) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='64'%20height='0'%20viewBox='0%200%2064%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://insideosaka.com/wp-content/themes/eleven40/images/map-icon-64x64.png) ### Where Are These Places Located? See these places on the Inside Osaka Google map: - [Open the Osaka map](https://drive.google.com/open?id=1UH-AYWT1VJYmMXJARkffq6a7MTY&usp=sharing) - You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want. - Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map. - Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses \\| VIOLET: Ryokan \\| PINK: Places to Eat \\| GREEN: Shops \\| YELLOW: Things to See and Do - If you’re using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location. ### Osaka Vacation Checklist - [ESSENTIALS](https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-01) – For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my [First Time In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-02) guide - [HOTELS](https://sp.booking.com/city/jp/osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-Checklist-03) – Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on [Booking.com](https://sp.booking.com/city/jp/osaka.html?aid=1172200;label=IO-Checklist-04) and [Agoda.com](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1759498&city=9590&tag=IO-Checklist-05) - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation - [WHERE TO STAY](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-06) – Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide [Where To Stay In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-07) - [BULLET TRAIN](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fen-US%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2F) – You can buy [shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fen-US%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2F) from Klook - popular routes include [Tokyo to Osaka](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2Froute-1304%2Ftokyo-to-shin-osaka-trains%2F), [Osaka to Kyoto](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2Froute-1457%2Fosaka-to-kyoto-trains%2F) and [Osaka to Tokyo](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=827059&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Frails-32%2F1012-japan%2Froute-1306%2Fshin-osaka-to-tokyo-trains%2F) - [SIM CARDS](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=877294&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fsearch%2Fresult%2F%3Fquery%3Djapan%2520esim) – You can buy an [eSim to activate in Japan](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=2653&aff_adid=877294&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fsearch%2Fresult%2F%3Fquery%3Djapan%2520esim) or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at [Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airports](https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=tokyo%20sim&searchSource=8&partner_id=LAMDN2W&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=IO-Checklist-08) or [Kansai International Airport](https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=kansai%20sim&searchSource=8&partner_id=LAMDN2W&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=IO-Checklist-09). You can also rent an [unlimited data pocket wifi router](https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=japan%20wifi&searchSource=7&partner_id=LAMDN2W&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=IO-Checklist-10) - [PACKING LIST](https://insideosaka.com/packing-list-for-japan/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-11) – View my comprehensive [Packing List For Japan](https://insideosaka.com/packing-list-for-japan/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-12) - [FLIGHTS](https://www.skyscanner.net/g/referrals/v1/flights/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024) – Compare flight prices and timings to find the [best Japan flight deals](https://www.skyscanner.net/g/referrals/v1/flights/cheap-flights-to?adId=1100662&campaignId=13416&destination=osaa&mediaPartnerId=1924024) - [JAPAN RAIL PASS](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=1591&aff_adid=616549&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F1420-7-day-whole-japan-rail-pass-jr-pass%2F) – If you’re visiting more than one city, you might save money with a [Japan Rail Pass](https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=1591&aff_adid=616549&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Factivity%2F1420-7-day-whole-japan-rail-pass-jr-pass%2F) – see if [it’s worth it](https://insideosaka.com/japan-rail-pass-how-to-buy-online/?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-13) for you - [TRAVEL INSURANCE](https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-8149427-15371527) – [World Nomads](https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-8149427-15371527) offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world - [WANT HELP?](https://www.insidekyoto.com/japan-travel-consulting?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-14) – Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at [Japan Travel Consulting](https://www.insidekyoto.com/japan-travel-consulting?utm_source=checkbox&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=IO-Checklist-15) can help ### Osaka District Map Click an Osaka district for detailed info on attractions, places to eat and accommodation ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='0'%20height='0'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://photos.smugmug.com/Osaka/Osaka-Travel-Guide/i-LxwMsDZ/0/O/osaka-map.png) - [Shin-Osaka Area](https://insideosaka.com/shin-osaka-area/) - [Kita Area](https://insideosaka.com/kita-and-umeda-area/) - [Central Osaka Area](https://insideosaka.com/central-osaka-honmachi-and-around/) - [Minami Area](https://insideosaka.com/minami-area/) - [Tennoji Area](https://insideosaka.com/tennoji-and-abeno-area/) - [Osaka Castle Area](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-castle-area/) - [Osaka Bay Area](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-bay-area/) #### Welcome to insideosaka.com ![Chris Rowthorn](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='75'%20height='75'%20viewBox='0%200%2075%2075'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Chris Rowthorn](https://insideosaka.com/wp-content/themes/eleven40/images/chris-rowthorn-75.jpg) insideosaka.com is an online guide to Osaka written by Chris Rowthorn, author of [Lonely Planet Japan](https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/external-search?tag=insidekyoto-20&keyword=Lonely+Planet+Japan&mode=blended) guides, founder of [InsideKyoto.com](https://www.insidekyoto.com/) and [TrulyTokyo.com](https://trulytokyo.com/) and long-time Japan resident. [More about Chris](https://insideosaka.com/about-chris-rowthorn) #### ChrisRowthorn.com [![Chris Rowthorn Tours - private Kyoto and Japan tours](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='150'%20height='100'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20100'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Chris Rowthorn Tours - private Kyoto and Japan tours](https://insidekyoto.smugmug.com/Kyoto/Inside-Kyoto-Blog/i-8K2ZWWC/0/O/chris-rowthorn-tours-arashiyama.jpg)](https://www.chrisrowthorn.com/) Chris Rowthorn's private tours of Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara and Japan. Personal and attentive trip planning and consulting. Visit [ChrisRowthorn.com](https://www.chrisrowthorn.com/) and [read customer reviews on TripAdvisor](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/8149427/type/dlg/sid/IO_CRToursside/http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d2179328-Reviews-Chris_Rowthorn_Tours-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html) #### First Time In Osaka - [First Time In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/first-time-in-osaka/) - [Packing List For Japan 2025](https://insideosaka.com/packing-list-for-japan/) #### Osaka Itineraries - [Osaka Itineraries](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-itineraries/) - [Must-See Osaka 1-Day Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/must-see-osaka-1-day-itinerary/) - [Osaka 1-Day Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-1-day-itinerary/) - [Osaka 1-Day Cherry Blossom Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-1-day-cherry-blossom-itinerary/) - [Osaka 1-Day Itinerary with Children](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-1-day-itinerary-with-children/) - [Osaka 2-Day Itinerary with Children](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-2-day-itinerary-with-children/) - [1-Day Osaka Foodie Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/1-day-osaka-foodie-itinerary/) - [Osaka Vegetarian Foodie Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-vegetarian-foodie-itinerary/) - [Osaka 2-Day Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-2-day-itinerary/) - [Osaka 2-Day Itinerary with Children](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-2-day-itinerary-with-children/) - [Osaka 3-Day Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-3-day-itinerary/) - [Osaka Shopping Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-shopping-itinerary/) #### Japan Travel Insurance - [Why You Need Travel Insurance For Japan](https://insideosaka.com/why-you-need-travel-insurance-for-japan/) #### Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo Itineraries - [Osaka-Kyoto 1-Week Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-kyoto-1-week-itinerary/) - [Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo 10-Day Itinerary](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-kyoto-tokyo-10-day-itinerary/) - [How To Travel From Kyoto To Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/how-to-travel-from-kyoto-to-osaka/) - [How To Travel From Tokyo To Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/how-to-travel-from-tokyo-to-osaka/) - [Japan Rail Pass: How To Buy Online](https://insideosaka.com/japan-rail-pass-how-to-buy-online/) #### Osaka Hotels - [Best New Osaka Hotels 2025](https://insideosaka.com/best-new-hotels-in-osaka/) - [Osaka Hotels Overview](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-hotels/) - [Where To Stay In Osaka 2025](https://insideosaka.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/) - [Best Osaka Boutique Hotels 2025](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-boutique-hotels/) - [Osaka Ryokan](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-ryokan/) - [Best Osaka Luxury Hotels 2025](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-luxury-hotels/) - [Best Osaka Mid-Range and Business Hotels 2025](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-mid-range-and-business-hotels/) - [Best Osaka Budget Hotels 2025](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-budget-hotels/) - [Best Value Hotels in Osaka 2025](https://insideosaka.com/best-value-hotels-in-osaka/) - [Best Osaka Hotels for Families 2025](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-hotels-for-families/) - [Most Convenient Hotels for Osaka Airports 2025](https://insideosaka.com/most-convenient-hotels-for-osaka-airports/) - [The Most Romantic Hotels in Osaka 2025](https://insideosaka.com/the-most-romantic-hotels-in-osaka/) #### Osaka Eating - [What To Eat In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/what-to-eat-in-osaka/) - [Best Osaka Restaurants](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-restaurants/) - [Eat Like A Local In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/eat-like-a-local-in-osaka/) - [Best Curry Rice In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-curry-rice-in-osaka/) - [Best French Restaurants In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-french-restaurants-in-osaka/) - [Best Izakaya In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-izakaya-in-osaka/) - [Best Kaiseki, Kappo and Other Haute Cuisine In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-kaiseki-kappo-other-haute-cuisine-in-osaka/) - [Best Kushikatsu in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-kushikatsu-in-osaka/) - [Best Okonomiyaki in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-okonomiyaki-in-osaka/) - [Insider’s Guide to Osaka Okonomiyaki Restaurants](https://insideosaka.com/insiders-guide-to-osaka-okonomiyaki-restaurants/) - [Best Ramen In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-ramen-in-osaka/) - [Best Resutoran-gai in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-resutoran-gai-in-osaka/) - [Best Soba in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-soba-in-osaka/) - [Best Sushi In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-sushi-in-osaka/) - [Best Takoyaki in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-takoyaki-in-osaka/) - [Best Tonkatsu in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-tonkatsu-in-osaka/) - [Best Unagi in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-unagi-in-osaka/) - [Best Udon in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-udon-in-osaka/) - [Best Vegetarian in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-vegetarian-in-osaka/) - [Best Yakitori in Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-yakitori-in-osaka/) #### Things To Do In Osaka - [Things To Do In Osaka 2025](https://insideosaka.com/things-to-do-in-osaka/) - [Osaka Fall Foliage](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-fall-foliage/) - [Osaka Cherry Blossoms – When and Where](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-cherry-blossoms-when-and-where/) - [Osaka with Children](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-with-children/) - [teamLab Botanical Garden in Nagai Park](https://insideosaka.com/teamlab-botanical-garden-in-nagai-park/) - [Universal Studios Japan Guide](https://insideosaka.com/universal-studios-japan-guide/) - [Himeji Castle and Arima Onsen Day Trip from Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/himeji-castle-and-arima-onsen-day-trip-from-osaka/) - [UNESCO World Heritage Sites In and Around Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-and-around-osaka/) - [Best Osaka Souvenirs](https://insideosaka.com/best-osaka-souvenirs/) - [Osaka Shopping](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-shopping/) - [SIM Cards In Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/sim-cards-in-osaka/) - [A Taste of Osaka by Bike](https://insideosaka.com/a-taste-of-osaka-by-bike/) - [Den-Den Town Guide](https://insideosaka.com/den-den-town-guide/) - [Sankyubashi](https://insideosaka.com/sankyubashi/) - [Nakazakicho](https://insideosaka.com/nakazakicho/) - [Tenjinbashi](https://insideosaka.com/tenjinbashi/) - [Shinsekai: A Guide To Osaka’s “New World” District](https://insideosaka.com/shinsekai/) - [Seven Slopes of Tennoji](https://insideosaka.com/seven-slopes-of-tennoji/) - [Korea Town (Tsuruhashi)](https://insideosaka.com/korea-town-tsuruhashi/) - [Harukas: Japan’s Tallest Building](https://insideosaka.com/harukas/) - [Osaka Skyline Views – The Best Views of Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-skyline-views-the-best-views-of-osaka/) - [Osaka’s Streetcars](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-streetcars/) - [Osaka’s Best Green Spaces](https://insideosaka.com/osakas-best-green-spaces/) - [Gay and Lesbian Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/gay-and-lesbian-osaka/) - [Best Day Trips From Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/best-day-trips-from-osaka/) - [Legoland Japan Guide](https://insideosaka.com/legoland-japan-guide/) - [Nagoya’s SCMAGLEV and Railway Park: A Full Guide](https://insideosaka.com/nagoyas-scmaglev-and-railway-park-a-full-guide/) #### Osaka Districts - [Central Osaka (Honmachi And Around)](https://insideosaka.com/central-osaka-honmachi-and-around/) - [Eastern Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/eastern-osaka/) - [Kita And Umeda Area](https://insideosaka.com/kita-and-umeda-area/) - [Minami Area](https://insideosaka.com/minami-area/) - [Northern Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/northern-osaka/) - [Osaka Bay Area](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-bay-area/) - [Osaka Castle Area](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-castle-area/) - [Shin-Osaka Area](https://insideosaka.com/shin-osaka-area/) - [Southern Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/southern-osaka/) - [Tennoji And Abeno Area](https://insideosaka.com/tennoji-and-abeno-area/) #### Getting Around Osaka - [Getting Around Osaka](https://insideosaka.com/getting-around-osaka/) - [How to Get to Osaka and Osaka Airport Transport](https://insideosaka.com/how-to-get-to-osaka-and-osaka-airport-transport/) - [IC Cards: Icoca, Suica And Pasmo](https://insideosaka.com/prepaid-cards-icoca-suica-and-pasmo/) - [Pay for Almost Anything with an IC Card on Your iPhone in Japan](https://insideosaka.com/pay-for-almost-anything-with-an-ic-card-on-your-iphone-in-japan/) - [Osaka Subways and Trains](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-subways-and-trains/) - [Osaka Taxis](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-taxis/) - [Osaka Buses](https://insideosaka.com/osaka-buses/) #### Japan Itineraries - [Japan Itineraries Overview](https://www.insidekyoto.com/japan-itineraries) - [1 Week Japan Itinerary: Tokyo and Kyoto](https://www.insidekyoto.com/1-week-japan-itinerary-kyoto-and-tokyo-7-to-10-days) - [7 to 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Hiroshima](https://www.insidekyoto.com/1-week-japan-itinerary-kyoto-and-tokyo-7-to-10-days) - [10 Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto and Takayama](https://www.insidekyoto.com/10-day-japan-itinerary-tokyo-kyoto-takayama) - [10 Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto and Kanazawa](https://www.insidekyoto.com/10-day-japan-itinerary-tokyo-kyoto-kanazawa) - [2 Week Japan Itinerary: The Grand Tour](https://www.insidekyoto.com/2-week-japan-itinerary-the-grand-tour) - [Japan Itinerary For Traveling With Children](https://www.insidekyoto.com/japan-itinerary-japan-with-children) #### Japan Reopens - [Can I Travel To Japan Now? 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