Osaka City Guide: Under30Experiences Japan Trip Report

Hey there, I’m Tim Gillespie, one of Under30Experiences' Regional Managers. As part of my work, I occasionally get to go explore different countries and scout out locations that our groups may enjoy. I recently went to Osaka, Japan, and wanted to share some tips on the city. This was my first time in Osaka, and honestly, I'm still trying to figure out why it took me so long to visit. It's such a cool city, so if you have the time, be sure to go check it out.

Here’s what this solo travel guide to Osaka, Japan covers:

• Best time to visit Osaka, Japan
• Safety in Osaka, Japan
• 3-day Osaka travel itinerary
• Top Things to Do near Osaka, Japan
• What foods to try in Osaka
• How to get around Osaka

Best Time to Visit Osaka, Japan

One of the most popular times to visit Osaka is during Japan’s Sakura season, which is in the Spring. But if you are looking to avoid the crowds, a trip during the off-season from December to February and from June to August is highly recommended.

However, if winter weather is not for you, then I suggest avoiding December to February. During these months, you will find the best deals and the lowest prices, plus limited crowds. But to really enjoy Osaka to its fullest, I’d aim to visit during the shoulder season of September through November. During these months, the weather lingers around 50°F (10°C) to 70°F degrees (21°C) during the daytime. Yes, there will be some crowds due to multiple festivals taking place, but the weather really is great this time of year.

Safety in Osaka, Japan

Osaka is widely regarded as one of the safest major cities in the world. Japan’s strong social values, low crime rate, and efficient policing contribute to a general sense of security that both residents and tourists enjoy. Violent crime is extremely rare, and petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching are uncommon compared to other large cities. Most neighborhoods, including downtown areas such as Namba and Umeda, are safe to walk around even late at night, and public transportation remains secure and well-monitored at all hours.

Here are some quick safety tips:

• Stay alert: Just like anywhere else, keep an eye on your surroundings.
• Travel smart: Use well-lit streets at night. Avoid dark alleys, even if your GPS says it’s a shortcut! Stay informed through social media for updates on safety tips.
• Public transport: Osaka has an efficient system. Buses, trains, and subways are not only safe but also a great way to get around.

Beyond crime, Osaka also takes safety seriously in terms of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons, which can occur in Japan. The city’s infrastructure is built to high safety standards, with earthquake-resistant buildings and efficient emergency response systems. Hotels and public spaces are well-equipped with clear evacuation signs and multilingual announcements.

3-day Osaka Itinerary

I spent a few days in Osaka and had such a blast! Obviously, a city of its size has many attractions and things to do on offer. It’s simply not possible to do it all. However, I was able to see and experience a variety of things and did so at an enjoyable pace. Though your time may be limited, be sure to take your time and enjoy the experience, and just don’t go about trying to check all the boxes before moving on!

Day 1: Osaka Castle and Dotonbori

• Start your Osaka explorations with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous sites. Explore the castle museum and enjoy the surrounding Osaka Castle Park, which is home to a variety of walking trails.
• After exploring the grounds of Osaka Castle, head over to Shitenno-ji Temple, Japan’s oldest officially established Buddhist temple, to experience the city’s spiritual heritage.
• If you are interested in Pokéman, then head over to Pokéman Cafe for lunch or simply a quick drink to experience this quirky eatery. Opt for a Pokémon latte, where you can choose from over 600 Pokémon characters to be used as your latte art!
• In the late afternoon, make your way to Dotonbori, Osaka’s most vibrant entertainment and food district. Walk along the canal and be sure to take photos with the Glico Man sign!
• Hang around Dotonbori until dark, when the area is lit up with flashy neon billboards, providing that futuristic sci-fi scene that we’ve all seen in movies. Stroll along the river and snack on street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

Day 2: Modern Osaka and Shinsekai District

• Begin your day in Umeda, the city’s business and shopping hub. Visit the Umeda Sky Building for a panoramic view from the Floating Garden Observatory. 
• Then head over to Nipponbashi Denden Town to experience its vibrant otaku culture, centered around electronics, anime, and manga. It's a paradise for enthusiasts to find a wide range of merchandise, from the latest gadgets to rare collectibles and retro video games.
• In the evening, explore the famous Shinsekai district, which has become popular on social media for its wacky views of highly decorative seafood restaurants and the Tsutenkaku Tower in the background. Be sure to try kushikatsu, a local specialty of deep-fried skewers.
• End your day at Spa World, a massive hot spring complex offering themed baths from around the world — a great way to relax after a day of walking.

Day 3: Namba Shopping and a Foodie’s Tour

• Get an early start and make your way down to Namba Yasaka Jinja, the famous lion head temple of Namba. It’s a small temple but impressive with its large center stage made from the open mouth of a lion.
• Walk over to Kuromon Ichiba Market, a bustling food market and the spot for all things food-related such as fresh sushi, wagyu beef skewers, and local snacks.
• Get your shopping done at Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street, which has all things Japanese cooking related: knives, ceramics, and cooking utensils. Continue shopping at Osaka Takashimaya, one of the largest malls in the city.
• Close out your day in Hozenji Yokocho Alley, Osaka’s popular drinking district. For alcohol enthusiasts, I recommend the "Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba." You'll visit three carefully selected izakayas beloved by locals, accompanied by a local guide.

Things to Do Near Osaka, Japan

Yes, we just laid out a pretty neat 3-day Osakal itinerary, but as I mentioned, not all things can be covered in 3 days, and not all of my recommendations will fit your preferences. For those of you with more time to explore, here is a list of the top things to do near Osaka.

• Kyoto: Just 30–45 minutes by train, Kyoto is the top day trip from Osaka. Visit iconic temples like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, and Kiyomizu-dera overlooking the city. 
• Nara: Only about 40 minutes away, Nara is famous for its friendly deer and UNESCO World Heritage temples. See the massive bronze Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, explore Nara Park, and stroll through the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Nara offers a peaceful, nature-filled escape from the urban energy of Osaka.
• Himeji: A bit farther (about 1 hour by train), Himeji is home to Himeji Castle, Japan’s most spectacular and well-preserved feudal-era fortress. The castle and its surrounding gardens make for a stunning half-day trip, easily paired with a visit to Koko-en Garden nearby.
• Mount Koya (Koyasan): For a more serene experience, take a 2-hour trip to Koyasan, a sacred mountain and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Okunoin Cemetery, the atmospheric Danjo Garan temple complex, and enjoy a shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian meal). It’s a peaceful contrast to Osaka’s bustling energy.

What Foods to Try in Osaka:

Did you know that Osaka is often called Japan’s Kitchen (Tenka no Daidokoro)? The city is packed with delicious street food, hearty local dishes, and inventive comfort cuisine.

A good majority of my time spent in Osaka was popping in and out of small eateries, walking through food markets, and tasting just about everything I saw. Of course, I didn’t always know what I was eating, but everything was enjoyable!  Here are some top foods to try during your stay in Osaka and other regions of Japan.

• Takoyaki (Octopus Ball): Perhaps Osaka’s most iconic snack, takoyaki are crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside balls of batter filled with diced octopus, green onion, and pickled ginger. They’re topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed flakes, and bonito flakes.
• Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancake): This beloved Osaka dish is a thick, savory pancake made from flour, cabbage, egg, and your choice of toppings such as pork, squid, or shrimp. It’s grilled on a hot plate and slathered with a sweet sauce and mayo.
• Kushikatsu (Deep Fried Skewers): A must-try in Shinsekai, kushikatsu are skewers of meat, seafood, or vegetables coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried to perfection. Dip them in the shared tonkatsu-style sauce — but remember, no double dipping!
• Negiyaki (Green Onion Pancake): Similar to okonomiyaki but thinner and made primarily with green onions, negiyaki is lighter and savory, often served with soy-based sauce. It’s popular among locals as a simple, comforting meal.‍
• Ramen and Udon: Finish your food adventures with a comforting bowl of Osaka-style ramen or kitsune udon, a noodle soup topped with sweet fried tofu.

How to Get Around Osaka:

Getting around Osaka is easy, efficient, and affordable thanks to its excellent public transportation system. You can download the Japan Transit Planner before your trip and purchase the Welcome Suica Card upon arrival at the airport.

Here is a quick breakdown of the methods of transportation available when visiting Osaka:

Osaka Metro (Subway)

The Osaka Metro is the fastest and most convenient way to travel within the city. It has nine main lines, connecting key areas like Umeda (Kita), Namba (Minami), Shin-Osaka, Tennoji, and Osaka Castle. Most signs and announcements are in English, and trains are frequent (every 3–5 minutes).

Popular lines for tourists are:

• Midosuji Line (Red) – runs north-south and links major spots like Shin-Osaka Station, Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba.
• Tanimachi Line (Purple) – connects Tennoji to Osaka Castle.

JR Lines

The JR Osaka Loop Line circles the city and stops at major stations such as Osaka Station, Tennoji, and Osaka Castle Park. The JR Lines are great for quick access to attractions and connections to nearby cities like Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, this line is included at no extra cost.

Buses

The public bus system in Osaka is well-developed, connecting every corner of Osaka with hundreds of routes running throughout the city, and like the subway, they start operating from the early hours of the morning until late at night. City buses fill in the gaps where trains don’t reach, though they’re slower and less used by tourists.

Taxi

Taxis are safe and clean but more expensive. These are best for short rides or late-night travel. Be sure to download the Go / Taxi App, which is Japan’s version of Uber.

Interested in visiting Osaka with Under30Experiences? Check out our 9-day Japan trip!