Osaka Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

Osaka Things to Do

Osaka is the second largest metropolitan area in Japan after Tokyo. The history of Osaka goes back to the 5th Century when people from Korea and China explored the land. With them they brought artifacts, culture and new technologies in ceramics, construction, engineering. They also brought the new religion of Buddhism.

Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji temple, founded by Prince Shotoku in 539, is said to be the oldest state temple in Japan. A host of national treasures and important cultural properties are housed in it.

Osaka Castle

Construction of Osaka Castle was started in 1583 and then was destroyed several times due to wars. The latest installation was built in 1931. With its five-layered castle tower, the castle was designed to fit the splendor of the metropolis that Hideyoshi aspired to create. Today it still stands tall as Osaka’s symbol.

Hozenji Temple

Hozenji Temple, located at the eastern end of Hozenji Yokocho, was established in 1637. The temple’s main feature is the moss-covered statue called Mizukakefudo. Instead of donating money, worshipers splash water on the green sculptures. It is said the moss-covered statue is the only thing in the area to survive the bombings of World War II.

Downtown Dotonbori

Do you have a craving for neon lights and big crowds with tons of shops?  Then you must explore Dotonbori which is lined with tons and tons of restaurants and bars. This is a great way to spend a Saturday night.

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Umeda Sky Building

The Umeda Sky Building is a futuristic building which rises 170. Most of the building is occupied by offices, but there is an observation deck on the 39th floor. There is a food court designed as a Japanese street in the late 1800’s. A nice place to visit is the Floating Garden Observatory on the top of the Umeda Sky Building.  It offers a 360-degree outdoor view of Osaka city.

The Shark Whale and the Harbor

You will be glad you visited the aquarium. It presents the marine life of the Pacific Rim in an incredible way. At its heart is a huge tank with whale sharks, smaller hammerheads, rays and many other Pacific fish. Two activities other than the Aquarium that I would highly recommend are the nearby Hep Ferris wheel. The former will give you a terrific view of the harbor, and much of Osaka. One spin takes about half an hour but what a view!

Drop Me Off at Spa World!

This 3-story spa is the largest in the world. This internationally-themed spa offers the best from every continent including:  Asian style Japanese outdoor baths, Indian salt rub room, Indian massage baths, Chinese herbal baths, Turkish baths, Spanish massage baths, Roman baths and mud baths.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Osaka, Japan.