Things to Do in Osaka

Explore Kyoto's charming streets and Nara Deer Park in one day departing from Osaka!

Watch the Japanese national sport of sumo wrestling in Osaka with a professional guide. Learn about the history and traditions of sumo wrestling.

• Practice authentic Kendo in a real Japanese dojo in central Osaka • Beginner-friendly program with friendly, patient instruction in English • No prior experience required—ideal for first-time visitors to Japan • Learn Samurai culture, Kendo history, and Bushidō in a clear, simple way • Wear traditional Kendo uniforms (Dōgi & Hakama) and full protective armor • Learn basic posture, footwork, and Shinai (bamboo sword) techniques • Enjoy a safe, match-style Kendo session under professional supervision • Martial arts or Kendo practitioners can spar with a title-holding Kendo master •Train in a dojo where authentic Samurai artifacts and history are on display • Take photos and videos in full Samurai gear • Comfortable facilities with air conditioning, showers, and changing rooms • Easy access within Osaka City This hands-on experience is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper cultural connection and an authentic taste of the Samurai spirit beyond sightseeing.

Ride the glass-walled escalator and visit the rooftop observation area

We'll discover the typical cuisine of Japan on this food tour of Osaka, which is sure to be a treat for your tastebuds! Your tastebuds will thank you!

• Access 60+ attractions at Universal Studios Japan with a single Studio Pass—no need to exchange for physical tickets at the gate.
• Step into Super Nintendo World™ and experience the world’s first interactive Mario Kart ride and Yoshi’s Adventure.
• Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and the thrilling Flying Dinosaur coaster.
• Donkey Kong Country™ opens December 2024, adding even more excitement to Super Nintendo World™.
• Did you know? Universal Studios Japan has been TripAdvisor’s #1 Japanese theme park for four years running.

Discover the art of ramen-making in Osaka. Learn from seasoned chef Shu and create your own bowl of authentic Japanese ramen. Book now!

Experience the world of sumo in Osaka with a hands-on workshop and a live 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament. Learn from a former wrestler and enjoy live commentary during the matches.

Enjoy cooking Osaka best street food Takoyaki with local guide's secret recipe and special ingredients including Wagyu and cheese. Making Takoyaki is really fun and your own cooked Takoyaki is more delicious than street vendors. Enjoy Japanese sake tasting with sake expert (your guide is a sake sommelier and former brewer.) You will have fun learning basics of sake such as history, culture and making process, also get tips how to choose sake at restaurants. There are more than 10 types of sake available. Tasting differences and find your favorite sake through the tasting. After this activity, you will be able to enjoy sake more on your trip in Japan. This is the unique activity combining tasting experience and cooking class together.

Free yourself from the everyday in a park full of amazing thrills and excitement

On this night tour of Osaka, you'll marvel at neon lights in the striking neighborhoods of Shinsekai and Dotonbori, as well as taste delicious local delicacies.

• Have a convenient experience at USJ with one-day entry and skip-the-line access to 4 or 7 top attractions in one seamless ticket.
• Get straight to fan favorites like Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge™, The Flying Dinosaur, and more without waiting in hours-long lines.
• Enjoy exclusive timed entry to Super Nintendo World™ and/or The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ with your selected pass.
• Choose between Express Pass 4 for 4 rides or Express Pass 7 for a fuller experience with access to 7 attractions.
###### How to use **Studio Pass** (park entry)
• You will receive a QR code on the Headout app.
• Scan the QR code at the park entrance.
• No physical ticket/barcode is provided. Use only the QR code.
**Express Pass** (skip waiting lines at rides)
• You will receive a separate QR code for your express pass.
• Scan directly at the entrance of each eligible ride.
• You can only access each ride **once** with the Express Pass QR code.

Book a day trip to explore the beauty of the MIHO Museum, Lake Biwa, the Shirahige Shrine and its iconic Torii gate.

Create your own pair of chopsticks in Osaka with this workshop. Choose your wood, shape it by hand, and finish it to perfection with the help of an instructor.

Start your day discovering Osaka’s top highlights before the crowds arrive! This early morning walking tour takes you through Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori with a friendly English-speaking guide. Learn about Osaka’s history and modern culture while sampling local street food and enjoying one included drink. Perfect for travelers who want to explore the city efficiently in just a few hours — a great introduction to Osaka’s lively atmosphere and rich traditions. (Operated by GuideMe Japan – find us on Instagram @guidemejapan!) Important: Please do not be late as we have other guests on this tour. We will departure on time, and cannot accept any late guests whatsoever.

Visit the observation deck and see historical artifacts

Step back in time on this tour of Osaka Castle, where history, stunning architecture, and serene gardens come together to create an unforgettable experience.

• Skip waiting in long queues to get physical tickets when you book this convenient e-ticket and visit one of the most important historical heritage sites built in Ancient Japan.
• Explore the castle with over 100 years of history and countless precious relics.
• Experience Japan from a century ago, with access to the castle’s 8 floors.
• Take in Osaka City’s panoramic views from the top.

Join a local guide for a hands-on cooking session in Osaka. Learn to prepare izakaya-style dishes and takoyaki, paired with sake tastings.

Experience the power and tradition of sumo wrestling in Osaka. Watch a live show with retired wrestlers, learn about the sport's history, and even step into the ring yourself.

Ramen is a very popular Japanese food. It is now world famous. Therefore, everyone has eaten it, but not many people have made ramen. In this cooking class, you will actually knead the ramen with your own hands. The soup is also made starting from boiling the chicken bones. There are several toppings to choose from, but you can put them on according to your taste. Let's make sightseeing in Osaka a memorable one with your own ramen made with your own hands. *Please leave a note upon booking for vegetarian option / pescatarian option / no-fish option. *Gluten-free option is not available.

Ride the Ferris wheel and cruise the river

Join us for a free tour of Osaka as we delve into the charms and most significant sites of one of Japan's largest and most vibrant cities!

• Universal Studios Japan is always buzzing! Skip long waits with an **Express Pass**, giving you front-of-the-line access to 4 or 7 rides of your choice.
• That’s not all! With your chosen pass, enjoy timed entry to Super Nintendo World™ and/or THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER. Do note that the timings are randomly assigned so make sure you plan your day accordingly!
• Zoom through the tedious lines at top rides like Minion Mayhem, Yoshi's Adventure, Hollywood Dream, and more.
• Explore **10 unique areas** like Minion Park, Hollywood, and New York, packed with thrilling rides and fun adventures perfect for the whole family.
###### How to use **Express Pass** (skip waiting lines at rides)
• You will receive a separate QR code for your express pass.
• Scan directly at the entrance of each eligible ride.
• You can only access each ride **once** with the Express Pass QR code.

Explore Osaka's cultural richness with a private driving tour. Visit Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Kuromon Ichiba and more, let your guide tailor the experience to your interests.

Enjoy a cozy whisky tasking experience in Osaka's Sonezaki. Discover the history and unique flavors of Japanese whisky. Compare them all with curated snacks to see which best suits your palate.

Embark on a journey through the vibrant streets of Osaka with our meticulously crafted tours, offering the perfect blend of exploration and personalization. Our itinerary is designed to uncover the city's hidden gems and cultural treasures, from Beautiful Osaka Castle and its surrounding park to the nitty gritty cityscape of Nishinariku’s Shinsekai! Our experienced English speaking local guides will tailor the experience to your interests, ensuring a personalized adventure that resonates with you. From savoring delectable street food to discovering tucked-away gems known only to locals, every moment is crafted to delight and surprise. To add to your convenience, our guides will meet you at your accommodation so you can start your adventure right from your doorstep. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, let us show you the magic of Osaka through our unforgettable tours. We will utilize public transportation (trains, subway) to travel to each location.

Take a break in the healing natural thermal pools at Naniwanoyu

Experience your favourite films at the Universal Studios theme park. Enjoy rides, shows and restaurants inspired by Harry Potter, the minions, and much more.

• Enjoy 1-day entry to Universal Studios Japan with Express Pass access to 7 or 8 rides, plus timed entry to Super Nintendo World™ and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™.
• Skip long lines and save 9–10 hours with Express Pass access to top rides, including Mine Cart Madness, Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, and more.
• Experience signature attractions like Flight of the Hippogriff™ and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ without waiting in queues.
• Pick Express Pass 7 to enjoy 7 top rides or Express Pass 8 to include one extra must-see attraction, all while skipping the lines.

Visit Osaka's ultra-popular Muscle Girl Bar, a lively spot that employs local fitness enthusiasts who pair top-level bartending with shows of strength.

Enjoy a comfortable and convenient transfer in a shared ride service from hotels in Osaka to Kansai Airport and Kansai Airport to hotels.

We will make a Japanese home-cooked meal together. (Partial demonstration) We use ingredients and seasonings that can be easily made at home. You can also choose from a menu of specialty dishes unique to Osaka. menu: 1. Ginger grilled pork, rice balls, miso soup and Japanese rolled omelette 2. Takoyaki 3. Kushikatsu and rice balls 4. Japanese lunch box We will also give advice on how to shop at Japanese supermarkets. We don't serve vegetarian or vegan. Please contact us regarding food allergies. You can experience making kimonos and obis using materials (silk) and techniques passed down from ancient times in Japan. In particular, you can experience a gorgeous bridal dress that is rarely seen even by Japanese people. For men, you can experience wearing the first formal kimono and hakama. You can't go out wearing it, but you can enjoy taking pictures (with your own camera, etc.) in the Japanese-style corner in the room.

Ride a boat and see the city from the river

Make the most of your trip to Osaka with access to more than 40 of its unmissable attractions, including the Castle, Tsutenkaku Tower and Legoland.

• Make your way up to the Kuchu Teien Observatory Deck at the Osaka Umeda Sky Building.
• The Osaka Umeda Sky Building featured in the British newspaper "THE TIMES" as one of the best architectures in the world, is the perfect spot to experience the beauty of Osaka, the commercial center of Honshu.
• Take in the panoramic views of the port city of Osaka from up above.
• Click insta-wothy pictures with spectacular views as you wander around the gallery.

Discover the cultural richness of Japan on a guided tour from Osaka. Explore Nara Park, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Arashiyama's beauty.

Learn how to cook 2 of the most popular Japanese dishes during a cooking class in Osaka. Make your own ramen and gyoza from scratch using fresh ingredients, then sit down and enjoy your creation.

This is a 2-hour calligraphy workshop in Namba, downtown Osaka. Even if you are a beginner, no worries as a Japanese calligraphy instructor will give you detailed instructions step by step. Writing Japanese using a brush and ink will be an unforgettable experience. In this workshop, you will know what the Japanese calligraphy really is besides learning calligraphy with writing your own name in kanji or katakana. At the end of the workshop, you will create a one-of-a-kind handwritten souvenir by writing your name on colored paper or on a name tag. Write your own name in Japanese and take it home with you, along with your memories of Japan. Dotonbori, Nihonbashi, and Kuromon Market are close by, so you can go to those areas before or after the workshop, so you can make the most of your day!

Ride a boat and listen to festival music

Discover the most emblematic places around the Japanese city with this Osaka private walking tour. You'll be joined by an English-speaking guide just for you!

• Enjoy sweeping views of Osaka at the height of 300 meters from the Harukas 300 observatory.
• Take your Osaka experience to new heights by upgrading your ticket for the helicopter tour. Get ready for a bird's-eye view of the city that will leave you breathless.
• Take a breather and relax at the Sky Garden with a wooden deck and cafe on the 58th floor of Abeno Harukas.
• On the 60th floor, soak in a panoramic view of downtown Osaka through large floor-to-ceiling glass panels.
• Don’t miss "Godzilla Attacks! Final Battle on the Summit of Abeno" at HARUKAS 300! Get access to a Godzilla Earth display, games, workshops & more until Jun 29.

Discover Japan's history on a full-day tour from Osaka to Hiroshima. Travel by bullet train, visit Miyajima Island and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The ultimate way to explore Osaka! A relaxing cruise along the Dotonbori River. Hop on a 20-minute cruise and enjoy iconic views of Osaka’s Minami area from the water—including the famous Glico sign.

"Why settle for street snacks when you can dine with a chef?" Forget the queues and tourist traps of Dotonbori. Join a former professional chef for an exclusive gourmet marathon in the hidden district of Tanimachi. WHY THIS TOUR? THE CHEF’S STANDARD I’m not just a guide. I’m an ex-chef who hates tourist traps. I only take you to places that pass my strict "Excellence Test." MASSIVE VALUE➔ 13 JAPANESE TAPAS + 4 DRINKS This is a full-course meal, not a snack tour. ・13 Chef-selected Tapas (Small plates) ・4 Local Drinks included ・High quality and variety. Come hungry! 100% AUTHENTIC OSAKA Explore Tanimachi ➔ The historic soul of Osaka. 3 local Izakayas and 1 secret Bar where real foodies hide... WHAT WE DO １，THE ESCAPE: Meet at Tanimachi, a quiet, historic district away from the tourist noise. ２，THE JOURNEY: Hop through 4 hidden spots (3 Izakayas & 1 Secret Bar) curated by the chef. ３，THE FEAST: Enjoy 13 Japanese Tapas and 4 drinks while learning the secrets of local food culture.

View distant cities and relax in a café

At this sumo show in Osaka, you'll have an unforgettable experience at the Ochiizumibeya restaurant. If you wish, you can also enjoy a meal.

• Wander through the city of Osaka at your own pace with an Osaka Amazing Pass, that gives you access to public transport and 40 tourist spots.
• Go easy on the pockets with the pass and save money on transport and admission tickets with the Osaka Amazing Pass.
• Get access to 40 popular tourist attractions in the city including Osaka Castle Museum, Umeda Sky Building and more!
• Upgrade your pass for 2 consecutive days if you wish to stay in and explore Osaka for longer.
• Fun fact: Some of the stone structures in Osaka Castle, one the attractions included in the pass, has been intact since the Edo Period (1603 to 1868).

Dive into Japan's sushi culture in Osaka. Make your own nigiri sushi and enjoy a meal featuring the dishes that you've prepared yourself.

Enjoy an award-winning Osaka street food tour. Explore Shinsekai’s hidden gems and feast like a local. Enjoy 15 local dishes and 3 drinks at some of Osaka’s most authentic neighborhood spots.