Guidebook for Chūō-ku, Ōsaka-shi
Entertainment & Activities
Kaiyūkan is easily one of the world's best aquariums. An 800m-plus walkway winds past displays of sea life from around the Pacific 'ring of fire': Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, unreasonably cute Arctic otters, Monterey Bay seals and unearthly jellyfish. Most impressive is the ginormous central tank, housing a whale shark, manta and thousands of other fish and rays. There are good English descriptions, but the audioguide (¥500) gives more detail. Expect lots of families and school groups.
204 locals raden deze aan
Kaiyukan Hall
1-chōme-1-10 KaigandōriKaiyūkan is easily one of the world's best aquariums. An 800m-plus walkway winds past displays of sea life from around the Pacific 'ring of fire': Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, unreasonably cute Arctic otters, Monterey Bay seals and unearthly jellyfish. Most impressive is the ginormous central tank, housing a whale shark, manta and thousands of other fish and rays. There are good English descriptions, but the audioguide (¥500) gives more detail. Expect lots of families and school groups.
Also known as Osaka Dome, this futuristic stadium is home to the Orix Buffaloes baseball team and also hosts concerts, trade fairs and other events.
273 locals raden deze aan
Kyocera Dome Osaka
Chiyozaki-3-chōme-中2 Nishi WardAlso known as Osaka Dome, this futuristic stadium is home to the Orix Buffaloes baseball team and also hosts concerts, trade fairs and other events.
Among the biggest in the world, this 112m-high Ferris wheel offers unbeatable views of Osaka Bay and the seemingly endless Osaka/Kōbe conurbation. Give it a whirl at night to enjoy the vast carpet of lights.
629 locals raden deze aan
Tempozan Ferris Wheel
1-chōme-1-10 KaigandōriAmong the biggest in the world, this 112m-high Ferris wheel offers unbeatable views of Osaka Bay and the seemingly endless Osaka/Kōbe conurbation. Give it a whirl at night to enjoy the vast carpet of lights.
Modeled after sister parks in the USA, 'USJ' bursts with Hollywood movie-related rides, shows, shops and restaurants. Top billing goes to the new, ¥45 billion (!) Wizarding World of Harry Potter , a painstakingly recreated Hogsmeade Village (shop for magic wands, Gryffindor capes and butterbeer) plus the 'Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey' thrill ride through Hogwart's School. Wizarding World admission is by timed ticket. Other popular rides include Spider-Man . Leaflet maps and signage are in English, though narrations and entertainment are in Japanese. Long queues are common at the park's major venues (90 minutes is not unusual on the Harry Potter ride). To shorten waits, USJ offers a
4440 locals raden deze aan
Universal Studios Japan
SakurajimaModeled after sister parks in the USA, 'USJ' bursts with Hollywood movie-related rides, shows, shops and restaurants. Top billing goes to the new, ¥45 billion (!) Wizarding World of Harry Potter , a painstakingly recreated Hogsmeade Village (shop for magic wands, Gryffindor capes and butterbeer) plus the 'Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey' thrill ride through Hogwart's School. Wizarding World admission is by timed ticket. Other popular rides include Spider-Man . Leaflet maps and signage are in English, though narrations and entertainment are in Japanese. Long queues are common at the park's major venues (90 minutes is not unusual on the Harry Potter ride). To shorten waits, USJ offers a
Shopping
Youth-oriented, fashion-forward shopping and entertainment centre, topped with a bright red Ferris wheel.
197 locals raden deze aan
Hep Five Reuzenrad
5-15 KakudachōYouth-oriented, fashion-forward shopping and entertainment centre, topped with a bright red Ferris wheel.
In addition to men's and women's fashions, look for musical instruments and a large Tower Records store.
372 locals raden deze aan
NU Chayamachi
10-12 ChayamachiIn addition to men's and women's fashions, look for musical instruments and a large Tower Records store.
Anchor of the namesake train line, this 13-storey department store also has two excellent food floors below ground.
797 locals raden deze aan
Hankyu Umeda Honten
8-7 KakudachōAnchor of the namesake train line, this 13-storey department store also has two excellent food floors below ground.
At 15 storeys above ground and two below, this massive department store anchors Osaka Station's southern side.
319 locals raden deze aan
Daimaru Museum Umeda
3-chōme-1-1 UmedaAt 15 storeys above ground and two below, this massive department store anchors Osaka Station's southern side.
At 16,000 sq m over six storeys, this is Japan's largest men's fashion retailer. Two upper floors house cinemas and restaurants.
125 locals raden deze aan
Hankyu Men's Osaka
7-10 KakudachōAt 16,000 sq m over six storeys, this is Japan's largest men's fashion retailer. Two upper floors house cinemas and restaurants.
Six floors of tech, gadgets and gizmos, three floors of fashion and a restaurant floor make this a prime destination east of Osaka Station.
671 locals raden deze aan
Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Umeda
1-1 ŌfukachōSix floors of tech, gadgets and gizmos, three floors of fashion and a restaurant floor make this a prime destination east of Osaka Station.
If you need a new backpack or any other kind of outdoor gear, head to this excellent shop in the splashy new Grand Front complex.
89 locals raden deze aan
KOJITUSANSO
3-1 ŌfukachōIf you need a new backpack or any other kind of outdoor gear, head to this excellent shop in the splashy new Grand Front complex.
East of Midō-suji, Shinsaibashi is one of Japan's great shopping zones, most notably in this eight-block-long, covered Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade between Nagahori-dōri and Dōtombori.
1409 locals raden deze aan
Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street
2-chōme-2-22 ShinsaibashisujiEast of Midō-suji, Shinsaibashi is one of Japan's great shopping zones, most notably in this eight-block-long, covered Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade between Nagahori-dōri and Dōtombori.
This new behemoth bookshop, the largest in Osaka, is the result of two book specialists joining forces. There's a big range of English-language books on the 6th floor, with travel guides on the 3rd floor. It's in the new Andō Tadao–designed Chaska Chayamachi building.
114 locals raden deze aan
MARUZEN & JUNKUDO Umeda
7-20 ChayamachiThis new behemoth bookshop, the largest in Osaka, is the result of two book specialists joining forces. There's a big range of English-language books on the 6th floor, with travel guides on the 3rd floor. It's in the new Andō Tadao–designed Chaska Chayamachi building.
A landmark market in a covered arcade is where the locals shop for fresh fish, meat, vegetables, pickles and more. In addition to fresh and prepared foods, some shops sell bentō and have lunch counters. It's one block east of Sakai-suji, about 10 minutes' walk from central Namba.
2932 locals raden deze aan
Kuromon Market
Nipponbashi-1-chōme-16 Chuo WardA landmark market in a covered arcade is where the locals shop for fresh fish, meat, vegetables, pickles and more. In addition to fresh and prepared foods, some shops sell bentō and have lunch counters. It's one block east of Sakai-suji, about 10 minutes' walk from central Namba.
This large bookshop has a great selection of foreign- and Japanese-language books. It's inside the Dōjima Avanza Building, about 10 minutes' walk from Osaka Station. Most English-language books are on the 3rd floor along with a cafe. English travel guides are on the 2nd floor.
70 locals raden deze aan
JUNKUDO Osaka
1-chōme-6-20 DōjimaThis large bookshop has a great selection of foreign- and Japanese-language books. It's inside the Dōjima Avanza Building, about 10 minutes' walk from Osaka Station. Most English-language books are on the 3rd floor along with a cafe. English travel guides are on the 2nd floor.
Nominally a DIY and houseware chain, Tokyu Hands is Japan's favourite place to browse for items you probably didn't need but will end up loving. It's stacked floor upon floor with everything from obscure tools to design-forward lighting, clocks, curios and craft supplies, just for starters. There's a smaller branch in Umeda .
406 locals raden deze aan
東急ハンズ Tokyu Hands
1-chōme-8-3 ShinsaibashisujiNominally a DIY and houseware chain, Tokyu Hands is Japan's favourite place to browse for items you probably didn't need but will end up loving. It's stacked floor upon floor with everything from obscure tools to design-forward lighting, clocks, curios and craft supplies, just for starters. There's a smaller branch in Umeda .
This blocks-long foodie's paradise sells just about anything related to the preparation, consumption and selling of food: all manner of pots, pans, knives, kitchen gadgets, tableware, even shopfront lanterns, bar signs and plastic food models. Start thinking about how to make room in the suitcase for that stuff you never realised you needed.
111 locals raden deze aan
千日前道具屋筋商店街振興組合
5-19 NanbasennichimaeThis blocks-long foodie's paradise sells just about anything related to the preparation, consumption and selling of food: all manner of pots, pans, knives, kitchen gadgets, tableware, even shopfront lanterns, bar signs and plastic food models. Start thinking about how to make room in the suitcase for that stuff you never realised you needed.
A great starting point for fun, nontraditional, pop- and street-inspired mementos of your time in Japan. Village Vanguard bills itself as an 'exciting' bookstore, but there's much more to the story: between the cluttered book and magazine racks are offbeat gifts, from animal-shaped coat hooks to design-led T-shirts, mobile-phone cases, kitchen devices, hip-hop hats, shoulder bags, homewares and more.
130 locals raden deze aan
Village Vanguard America Mura
1-chōme-10-28 NishishinsaibashiA great starting point for fun, nontraditional, pop- and street-inspired mementos of your time in Japan. Village Vanguard bills itself as an 'exciting' bookstore, but there's much more to the story: between the cluttered book and magazine racks are offbeat gifts, from animal-shaped coat hooks to design-led T-shirts, mobile-phone cases, kitchen devices, hip-hop hats, shoulder bags, homewares and more.
Arts & Culture
This new museum features temporary shows, including, so far, Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/kansai/osaka/sights/museums-galleries/abeno-harukas-art-museum#ixzz4AU1VKd4D
155 locals raden deze aan
Kunstmuseum Abeno Harukas
1-chōme-1-43 AbenosujiThis new museum features temporary shows, including, so far, Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/kansai/osaka/sights/museums-galleries/abeno-harukas-art-museum#ixzz4AU1VKd4D
This museum has one of the world's finest collections of Chinese and Korean ceramics, with smaller galleries of Japanese ceramics and Chinese snuff bottles. At any one time, approximately 400 of the gorgeous pieces from the permanent collection are on display, and there are often special exhibits (with an extra charge). From the station, cross the river and go right, passing the Central Public Hall.
413 locals raden deze aan
The Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka
1-chōme-1-26 NakanoshimaThis museum has one of the world's finest collections of Chinese and Korean ceramics, with smaller galleries of Japanese ceramics and Chinese snuff bottles. At any one time, approximately 400 of the gorgeous pieces from the permanent collection are on display, and there are often special exhibits (with an extra charge). From the station, cross the river and go right, passing the Central Public Hall.
This impressive museum houses regularly changing exhibitions of modern (post-1945) Japanese and international art. Also arresting is its underground construction by architect Cesar Pelli; it's like a submarine with walls over 3m thick with light that filters down through skylights above the lobby. The entrance is marked by a large sculpture of steel tubes above ground, said to resemble a butterfly. It's towards the western end of Naka-no-shima.
701 locals raden deze aan
The National Museum of Art, Osaka
4-chōme-2-55 NakanoshimaThis impressive museum houses regularly changing exhibitions of modern (post-1945) Japanese and international art. Also arresting is its underground construction by architect Cesar Pelli; it's like a submarine with walls over 3m thick with light that filters down through skylights above the lobby. The entrance is marked by a large sculpture of steel tubes above ground, said to resemble a butterfly. It's towards the western end of Naka-no-shima.
Built above the ruins of Naniwa Palace (c 650), visible through the basement floor, this museum houses dramatically illuminated recreations of the old city and life-sized figures in the former palace court. There are also interesting early-20th-century displays, and great views of Osaka-jō. English explanations are pretty sparse, so rent an English-language audio guide (¥200). The museum is just southwest of the castle park, in a sail-shaped building adjoining the NHK Broadcast Center.
979 locals raden deze aan
Osaka Museum of History
4-chōme-1-32 ŌtemaeBuilt above the ruins of Naniwa Palace (c 650), visible through the basement floor, this museum houses dramatically illuminated recreations of the old city and life-sized figures in the former palace court. There are also interesting early-20th-century displays, and great views of Osaka-jō. English explanations are pretty sparse, so rent an English-language audio guide (¥200). The museum is just southwest of the castle park, in a sail-shaped building adjoining the NHK Broadcast Center.
From its humble invention in 1958 by Andō Momofuku, (1910-2007, later chair of Nissin Foods), instant rāmen has grown into a global business. Exhibits at this offbeat museum showcase its birthplace, instant noodles from around the world, and a 'tunnel' of Nissin products. For many visitors, the highlight is customising your own package of instant rāmen to take away and eat later (¥300), including decorating the cup. Get the free English-language audio guide (¥2000 yen deposit). Expect long queues at weekends. It's about a 10-minute walk from the station.
294 locals raden deze aan
Cup Noodle Museum Osaka Ikeda
8-25 MasumichōFrom its humble invention in 1958 by Andō Momofuku, (1910-2007, later chair of Nissin Foods), instant rāmen has grown into a global business. Exhibits at this offbeat museum showcase its birthplace, instant noodles from around the world, and a 'tunnel' of Nissin products. For many visitors, the highlight is customising your own package of instant rāmen to take away and eat later (¥300), including decorating the cup. Get the free English-language audio guide (¥2000 yen deposit). Expect long queues at weekends. It's about a 10-minute walk from the station.
Two subway stops from Umeda, this museum contains a life-sized reproduction of an 1830s Osaka neighbourhood: shophouses, drug stores, an old-style sentō (public bath) and more. Enhancing the Edo Period mood, lighting shifts between day and night, shops sell traditional toys and unique souvenirs, and for ¥200 visitors can rent kimono for photo-opps. Invest ¥100 in the English audio guide, since English signage is limited. The building is right behind as you exit the station. Just outside is lively Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street, which claims to be Japan's longest shopping street at 3km. Pick up an English-language guide at the museum or along the route.
518 locals raden deze aan
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
6-chōme-4-20 TenjinbashiTwo subway stops from Umeda, this museum contains a life-sized reproduction of an 1830s Osaka neighbourhood: shophouses, drug stores, an old-style sentō (public bath) and more. Enhancing the Edo Period mood, lighting shifts between day and night, shops sell traditional toys and unique souvenirs, and for ¥200 visitors can rent kimono for photo-opps. Invest ¥100 in the English audio guide, since English signage is limited. The building is right behind as you exit the station. Just outside is lively Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street, which claims to be Japan's longest shopping street at 3km. Pick up an English-language guide at the museum or along the route.
Located within the expansive Osaka World Expo Park (Banpaku-kōen), this fabulous museum brims with interesting and colourful objects for a whirlwind tour through many of the world's cultures. Exhibits range from Bollywood movie posters to Ainu textiles, Ghanaian barbershop signboards to Bhutanese mandalas and Japanese festival floats, even a Filipino jeepney. Note: there's limited English signage so it's best to get an audio guide. From the station, cross the bridge to the park and follow the signs to the museum. From Kyoto, take the Hankyū line to Minami Ibaraki Station and change to the Osaka Monorail.
120 locals raden deze aan
National Museum of Ethnology
10-1 SenribanpakukōenLocated within the expansive Osaka World Expo Park (Banpaku-kōen), this fabulous museum brims with interesting and colourful objects for a whirlwind tour through many of the world's cultures. Exhibits range from Bollywood movie posters to Ainu textiles, Ghanaian barbershop signboards to Bhutanese mandalas and Japanese festival floats, even a Filipino jeepney. Note: there's limited English signage so it's best to get an audio guide. From the station, cross the bridge to the park and follow the signs to the museum. From Kyoto, take the Hankyū line to Minami Ibaraki Station and change to the Osaka Monorail.
In the park Ryokuchi-kōen, this fine open-air museum features a collection of traditional Japanese country houses, transported here and painstakingly reconstructed. Most striking is the giant gasshō-zukuri (steeply slanting thatch-roofed) farmhouse from Gifu Prefecture, and a thatched-wall farmhouse from Nagano, which looks to be wearing a shaggy coat. The whole place comes alive with fiery red maple leaves during November. Take the Kita-Osaka Kyūko line (an extension north from the Midō-suji subway line, ¥90 surcharge) to Ryokuchi-kōen Station. From the west exit, go straight (past McDonald's), follow the road down to Hattori Ryokuchi Park (服部緑地公園), and walk through the park to the museum.
60 locals raden deze aan
日本民家集落博物館
1 HattoriryokuchiIn the park Ryokuchi-kōen, this fine open-air museum features a collection of traditional Japanese country houses, transported here and painstakingly reconstructed. Most striking is the giant gasshō-zukuri (steeply slanting thatch-roofed) farmhouse from Gifu Prefecture, and a thatched-wall farmhouse from Nagano, which looks to be wearing a shaggy coat. The whole place comes alive with fiery red maple leaves during November. Take the Kita-Osaka Kyūko line (an extension north from the Midō-suji subway line, ¥90 surcharge) to Ryokuchi-kōen Station. From the west exit, go straight (past McDonald's), follow the road down to Hattori Ryokuchi Park (服部緑地公園), and walk through the park to the museum.
Reconstruction of Osaka's historic kabuki theatre, now a venue for plays, musicals, concerts and Japanese period dramas.
158 locals raden deze aan
Shin Kabuki-za
6-chōme-5-13 UehonmachiReconstruction of Osaka's historic kabuki theatre, now a venue for plays, musicals, concerts and Japanese period dramas.
Parks & Nature
四天王寺 本坊
1-chōme-11-18 ShitennōjiLovely strolling garden just north of Shitennō-ji.
On the eastern end of the Naka-no-shima island, this is a good place for an afternoon stroll or picnic lunch.
504 locals raden deze aan
Nakanoshima Rose Garden
Nakanoshima-1-chōme-1 Kita WardOn the eastern end of the Naka-no-shima island, this is a good place for an afternoon stroll or picnic lunch.
Sightseeing
Mitsuhachimangu
2-chōme-10-7 NishishinsaibashiSmall Shintō shrine in the middle of Amerika-Mura.
Atmospheric alley dotted with traditional restaurants and bars.
551 locals raden deze aan
Hozenji Yokocho street
2 Chome-7-21 HigashishinsaibashiAtmospheric alley dotted with traditional restaurants and bars.
This bridge has the best views of Dōtombori's famed neon nightscapes.
24 locals raden deze aan
Tsutaya Ebisubashi
1-chōme-8-19 DōtonboriThis bridge has the best views of Dōtombori's famed neon nightscapes.
Built 1911, this Neo-Renaissance building is an important cultural property.
307 locals raden deze aan
Osaka City Central Hall
Nakanoshima-1-chōme-1 Kita WardBuilt 1911, this Neo-Renaissance building is an important cultural property.
Home of the most famous Kuidaore Tarō statue, at the heart of Dōtombori.
147 locals raden deze aan
Nakaza Cuidaore Building
1-chōme-7-21 DōtonboriHome of the most famous Kuidaore Tarō statue, at the heart of Dōtombori.
三津寺与太呂
This small Buddhist temple makes for a quiet respite from the bustle of Shinsaibashi.
The crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku - built 1912, rebuilt 1956 - is the central landmark of Shin-Sekai.
238 locals raden deze aan
Cafe Tsutenkaku
1-chōme-19-6 EbisuhigashiThe crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku - built 1912, rebuilt 1956 - is the central landmark of Shin-Sekai.
Just south and parallel to the canal is this pedestrianised street, where dozens of restaurants and theatres vie for attention with the flashiest of signage: giant 3-D crab, puffer fish, dragon and more.
3588 locals raden deze aan
Dotonbori
Dotonbori-9-1 Chome Chuo WardJust south and parallel to the canal is this pedestrianised street, where dozens of restaurants and theatres vie for attention with the flashiest of signage: giant 3-D crab, puffer fish, dragon and more.
Nicknamed 'Ebessan', this famous shrine is said to have been founded by Japan's most revered historical figure, the priest-prince Shotoku-taishi, circa 600AD. These days it enshrines the Shintō god of commerce and hosts the Tōka Ebisu festival each January.
468 locals raden deze aan
Imamiya Ebisu-heiligdom
Ebisunishi-1-chōme-6 Naniwa WardNicknamed 'Ebessan', this famous shrine is said to have been founded by Japan's most revered historical figure, the priest-prince Shotoku-taishi, circa 600AD. These days it enshrines the Shintō god of commerce and hosts the Tōka Ebisu festival each January.
Only a short walk south of Dōtombori Arcade you'll find Hōzen-ji, a tiny temple hidden down a narrow alley. The temple is built around a moss-covered Fudō-myōō statue. This statue is a favourite of people employed in mizu shobai (water trade) who pause before work to throw some water on the moss-covered statue. Nearby, you'll find Hōzen-ji Yokochō, a tiny alley filled with traditional restaurants and bars.
212 locals raden deze aan
Hosen-ji-tempel
Only a short walk south of Dōtombori Arcade you'll find Hōzen-ji, a tiny temple hidden down a narrow alley. The temple is built around a moss-covered Fudō-myōō statue. This statue is a favourite of people employed in mizu shobai (water trade) who pause before work to throw some water on the moss-covered statue. Nearby, you'll find Hōzen-ji Yokochō, a tiny alley filled with traditional restaurants and bars.
A century ago, Shin-Sekai ('new world') was home to an amusement park that defined cutting edge. Now this entertainment district mixes down-on-its-heels with retro cool. It's centred around the crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku – built 1912, rebuilt 1956 – surrounded by ancient pachinko parlours, rundown theatres and a few homeless folks and suspicious-looking characters. Shin-Sekai still attracts plenty of visitors for nostalgia and cheap eateries behind over-the-top signage, especially for kushikatsu (deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers).
834 locals raden deze aan
Shinsekai
Ebisuhigashi-8-2 Chome Naniwa WardA century ago, Shin-Sekai ('new world') was home to an amusement park that defined cutting edge. Now this entertainment district mixes down-on-its-heels with retro cool. It's centred around the crusty, trusty, 103m-high steel-frame tower Tsūten-kaku – built 1912, rebuilt 1956 – surrounded by ancient pachinko parlours, rundown theatres and a few homeless folks and suspicious-looking characters. Shin-Sekai still attracts plenty of visitors for nostalgia and cheap eateries behind over-the-top signage, especially for kushikatsu (deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers).
Hiding in plain sight amid the skyscrapers of Umeda, this 1300-year-old shrine owes its fame to one of Japan's best known tragic plays (based on true events). Star-crossed lovers Ohatsu, a prostitute, and Tokubei, a merchant's apprentice. Rather than live apart, they committed double suicide here in 1703, to remain together forever in the afterlife. History aside, the shrine looks pretty modern and well-scrubbed, festooned throughout with mementos to the lovers, including ema (votive plaques) inscribed by visitors. There's a flea market the first Friday of each month.
189 locals raden deze aan
Tsuyu Tenjinsha (Ohatsu Tenjin)
2-chōme-5-4 SonezakiHiding in plain sight amid the skyscrapers of Umeda, this 1300-year-old shrine owes its fame to one of Japan's best known tragic plays (based on true events). Star-crossed lovers Ohatsu, a prostitute, and Tokubei, a merchant's apprentice. Rather than live apart, they committed double suicide here in 1703, to remain together forever in the afterlife. History aside, the shrine looks pretty modern and well-scrubbed, festooned throughout with mementos to the lovers, including ema (votive plaques) inscribed by visitors. There's a flea market the first Friday of each month.
Founded 593, Shitennō-ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, although only the big stone torii (Shintō shrine gate) is original, the oldest of its kind in the country (1294). Shitennō-ji's best visited for the lovely strolling garden, Honbō Teien , just northeast of the main precincts. Otherwise, the grounds are a somewhat desolate expanse of raked gravel, but there's a five-storey pagoda, which (unusually) you can climb up. On the 21st and 22nd of each month is a very good flea market outside the temple, with antiques and secondhand goods, including old kimono.
1112 locals raden deze aan
Shitennoji
1-chōme-1-11-18 ShitennōjiFounded 593, Shitennō-ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, although only the big stone torii (Shintō shrine gate) is original, the oldest of its kind in the country (1294). Shitennō-ji's best visited for the lovely strolling garden, Honbō Teien , just northeast of the main precincts. Otherwise, the grounds are a somewhat desolate expanse of raked gravel, but there's a five-storey pagoda, which (unusually) you can climb up. On the 21st and 22nd of each month is a very good flea market outside the temple, with antiques and secondhand goods, including old kimono.
Japan's tallest building (300m, 60 storeys), this Cesar Pelli–designed tower opened in March 2014 and dominates Osaka's southern skyline, offering sweeping city views. It houses Japan's largest department store (Kintetsu, floors B2-14), other shops, a hotel, offices, restaurants and observation decks. Admission is free except for the top-level Harukas 300 observation deck and the Abeno Harukas Art Museum , where temporary shows so far have encompassed Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Although Abeno Harukas is Japan's tallest building, the tallest structure is Tokyo Sky Tree , at 634m.
2395 locals raden deze aan
Abeno Harukas
1-chōme-1-43 AbenosujiJapan's tallest building (300m, 60 storeys), this Cesar Pelli–designed tower opened in March 2014 and dominates Osaka's southern skyline, offering sweeping city views. It houses Japan's largest department store (Kintetsu, floors B2-14), other shops, a hotel, offices, restaurants and observation decks. Admission is free except for the top-level Harukas 300 observation deck and the Abeno Harukas Art Museum , where temporary shows so far have encompassed Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Although Abeno Harukas is Japan's tallest building, the tallest structure is Tokyo Sky Tree , at 634m.
After unifying Japan in the late 16th century, General Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this castle (1583) as a display of power, using, it's said, the labour of 100,000 workers. Although the present structure is a 1931 concrete reconstruction (refurbished 1997), it's nonetheless quite a sight, looming dramatically over the surrounding park and moat. Inside is an excellent collection of art, armour, and day-to-day implements related to the castle, Hideyoshi and Osaka. An 8th-floor observation deck has 360-degree views. Hideyoshi's original granite structure was said to be impregnable, yet it was destroyed in 1614 by the armies of Tokugawa Ieyasu , rebuilt 15 years later, then razed again when anothe
3465 locals raden deze aan
Osaka Castle Park
Ōsakajō-1 Chuo WardAfter unifying Japan in the late 16th century, General Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this castle (1583) as a display of power, using, it's said, the labour of 100,000 workers. Although the present structure is a 1931 concrete reconstruction (refurbished 1997), it's nonetheless quite a sight, looming dramatically over the surrounding park and moat. Inside is an excellent collection of art, armour, and day-to-day implements related to the castle, Hideyoshi and Osaka. An 8th-floor observation deck has 360-degree views. Hideyoshi's original granite structure was said to be impregnable, yet it was destroyed in 1614 by the armies of Tokugawa Ieyasu , rebuilt 15 years later, then razed again when anothe
Opened in 1993 and named one of the world's top 20 buildings, the Sky Building resembles a 40-storey, space-age Arc de Triomphe. Twin towers are connected at the top by a 'floating garden' (really a garden-free observation deck) with breathtaking 360-degree city views day or night. Getting there is half the fun – an escalator in a see-through tube takes you up the last five storeys, between the towers (not for vertigo sufferers). The architect, Hara Hiroshi, also designed Kyoto Station . The building is reached via an underground passage, a short walk north of Osaka and Umeda stations.
1337 locals raden deze aan
Umeda Sky Building
1-chōme-1-88 ŌyodonakaOpened in 1993 and named one of the world's top 20 buildings, the Sky Building resembles a 40-storey, space-age Arc de Triomphe. Twin towers are connected at the top by a 'floating garden' (really a garden-free observation deck) with breathtaking 360-degree city views day or night. Getting there is half the fun – an escalator in a see-through tube takes you up the last five storeys, between the towers (not for vertigo sufferers). The architect, Hara Hiroshi, also designed Kyoto Station . The building is reached via an underground passage, a short walk north of Osaka and Umeda stations.
Drinks & Nightlife
Pop in for a drink at this cosy, mellow bar with tropical island decor, Southeast Asian munchies and a big window for bang-on views of the Tsūten-kaku tower. It's just inside the Osaka Shin-Sekai arcade, on the right.
95 locals raden deze aan
Bar NOCOSAREJIMA
1-chōme-17-7 EbisuhigashiPop in for a drink at this cosy, mellow bar with tropical island decor, Southeast Asian munchies and a big window for bang-on views of the Tsūten-kaku tower. It's just inside the Osaka Shin-Sekai arcade, on the right.
In the warren of tiny bars of the Dōyama-chō, east of Osaka Station, gay men have been coming to this subtly stylish spot since 1993. There's no cover, reasonably priced drinks, and a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike.
107 locals raden deze aan
G Physique Osaka
8-23 DōyamachōIn the warren of tiny bars of the Dōyama-chō, east of Osaka Station, gay men have been coming to this subtly stylish spot since 1993. There's no cover, reasonably priced drinks, and a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike.
The name is Italian for '500', appropriate since everything at this cosy bar costs ¥500. There's a hearty selection of food and the impressively extensive martini menu. It's not far from the corner of Sakai-suji; look for the 5 in a red circle.
13 locals raden deze aan
チンクエチェント
1-chōme-9-24 ImafukunishiThe name is Italian for '500', appropriate since everything at this cosy bar costs ¥500. There's a hearty selection of food and the impressively extensive martini menu. It's not far from the corner of Sakai-suji; look for the 5 in a red circle.
This popular, dimly lit bar in the Kita-Shinchi district is a short walk from JR Osaka Station and draws a good crowd of expats and Japanese. Among other bar-menu standards, they do a good burger with chunky fries, and you can get a meat pie.
104 locals raden deze aan
Captain Kangaroo
1-chōme-5-20 SonezakishinchiThis popular, dimly lit bar in the Kita-Shinchi district is a short walk from JR Osaka Station and draws a good crowd of expats and Japanese. Among other bar-menu standards, they do a good burger with chunky fries, and you can get a meat pie.
Serving the music-loving community since 1995, Rock Rock has a history of hosting after parties for international acts and attracting celeb visitors. Regular events with a modest cover charge showcase some of Osaka's finest rock DJs (and famous guests).
107 locals raden deze aan
ロックロック
Serving the music-loving community since 1995, Rock Rock has a history of hosting after parties for international acts and attracting celeb visitors. Regular events with a modest cover charge showcase some of Osaka's finest rock DJs (and famous guests).
Zerro has a good range of drinks and food, energetic bilingual bartenders, and a street-level location ideal for a spot of people-watching. Come early for relaxed drinks and conversation; come late on the weekend for DJs, dancing and a lively crowd.
143 locals raden deze aan
Zerro
2-chōme-3-2 ShinsaibashisujiZerro has a good range of drinks and food, energetic bilingual bartenders, and a street-level location ideal for a spot of people-watching. Come early for relaxed drinks and conversation; come late on the weekend for DJs, dancing and a lively crowd.
In Umeda's Ohatsutenjin-dōri arcade, have a Guinness or two and relax in the friendly atmosphere of this Irish-style pub, well liked among local expats and Japanese for after-work drinks and the free live music on weekends. There's a sign at street level.
183 locals raden deze aan
The Blarney Stone
2-chōme-10-15 SonezakiIn Umeda's Ohatsutenjin-dōri arcade, have a Guinness or two and relax in the friendly atmosphere of this Irish-style pub, well liked among local expats and Japanese for after-work drinks and the free live music on weekends. There's a sign at street level.
This is one of the oldest Irish-style pubs in Japan, and a good place to rub shoulders with expats and Japanese, enjoy free live music, catch sports matches, and, of course, have a pint. It's on the 6th floor of a futuristic building with what looks like a rocket on the front.
117 locals raden deze aan
Murphys Bar
Shinsaibashisuji-1-chōme-5 Chuo WardThis is one of the oldest Irish-style pubs in Japan, and a good place to rub shoulders with expats and Japanese, enjoy free live music, catch sports matches, and, of course, have a pint. It's on the 6th floor of a futuristic building with what looks like a rocket on the front.
An unbeatable spot for sophisticated drinks with a view, on the Hilton Osaka's 35th floor. There's a ¥1750 per person table charge (¥1200 for hotel guests) and drinks average ¥2000 each. Popular food menu items include a gourmet plate (¥3300) of smoked salmon, ham, cheese, salami, shrimp and more.
112 locals raden deze aan
Windows on the World
1-chōme-8-8 UmedaAn unbeatable spot for sophisticated drinks with a view, on the Hilton Osaka's 35th floor. There's a ¥1750 per person table charge (¥1200 for hotel guests) and drinks average ¥2000 each. Popular food menu items include a gourmet plate (¥3300) of smoked salmon, ham, cheese, salami, shrimp and more.
With city lights spread beneath you like a twinkling carpet, views are extraordinary from this chichi bar-restaurant. Drinks start at ¥1150, and there are Italian dishes like the namesake pizza with mascarpone, prawns, mushroom and black truffle (¥2850). Enter the hotel from above Nankai Namba Station.
111 locals raden deze aan
TAVOLA36
5-chōme-1-60 NanbaWith city lights spread beneath you like a twinkling carpet, views are extraordinary from this chichi bar-restaurant. Drinks start at ¥1150, and there are Italian dishes like the namesake pizza with mascarpone, prawns, mushroom and black truffle (¥2850). Enter the hotel from above Nankai Namba Station.
In the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.
86 locals raden deze aan
CRAFT BEER BASE BUD
1-chōme-3-1 UmedaIn the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.
Imagine a storeroom crammed with old records, CDs, worn-out knick-knacks and random ornaments. Then imagine a bar in the middle of it. That's kind of what to expect at this tiny, quirky place, where you'll be heartily welcomed by the long-haired owner as he spins folk-rock tunes on the record player and serves drinks and snacks. There's an English sign out front.
109 locals raden deze aan
Folk Rock Bar "Phoe～be"
Nishishinsaibashi-2-chōme-7 Chuo WardImagine a storeroom crammed with old records, CDs, worn-out knick-knacks and random ornaments. Then imagine a bar in the middle of it. That's kind of what to expect at this tiny, quirky place, where you'll be heartily welcomed by the long-haired owner as he spins folk-rock tunes on the record player and serves drinks and snacks. There's an English sign out front.
Everything Else
In the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.
86 locals raden deze aan
CRAFT BEER BASE BUD
1-chōme-3-1 UmedaIn the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.
On the 6th floor alone are 26 restaurants from kushikatsu to sushi, Chinese to Italian. At the far end, mostly organic Sai-ji-ki is an all-you-can-eat buffet.
2406 locals raden deze aan
Namba Parks
2-chōme-10-70 NanbanakaOn the 6th floor alone are 26 restaurants from kushikatsu to sushi, Chinese to Italian. At the far end, mostly organic Sai-ji-ki is an all-you-can-eat buffet.