Osaka is a designated city in the Kansai region of Honshu in Japan. It was formerly known as Naniwa. This city is an important financial center of Japan. It is recognized as one of the most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities. Apart from the vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture, and delicious street food, there are many great places to visit in Osaka. There is Universal Studios Japan and Tsutenkaku Tower, one of the oldest towers in Osaka. This city has the Aquarium Kaiyukan, which is among the largest aquariums in the entire world. There are also some unique places to explore like the arcades at Den Den Town, the huge spa and water park at Spa World, or the colorful and busy Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street.
Here are the Best Tourist Attractions in Osaka
1. Legoland Discovery Center
Legoland Discovery Center is located in Osaka, Japan. This center offers an immersive experience for LEGO enthusiasts. It is an indoor theme park featuring a plethora of attractions such as themed rides, creative workshops, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can embark on thrilling adventures like exploring LEGO replicas of famous landmarks or building and racing LEGO cars. They can enjoy soft play areas and DUPLO-themed attractions. Legoland Discovery Center also hosts special events and birthday parties, making it a popular destination for families and LEGO fans alike.
2. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is an aquarium located in the ward of Minato in Osaka. It has a structure that resembles giant blocks of Lego. In this aquarium, visitors can see several thousand marines and other wildlife species. Not just from Japan, but also from Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean, the Great Barrier Reef as well as Monterey Bay. They can do so by checking out their permanent exhibits and feeding sessions. However, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the most popular aquariums in Japan.
3. Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is a Japanese Castle in Osaka, Japan. This castle is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. It also played an important role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century of the Azuchi-Momoyama period. Osaka Castle is one of the best places to visit in Osaka. It was established in 1586 and was built by a famous Japanese warrior named Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle has been reconstructed throughout the years in history due to destruction from enemies. Osaka Castle has some major attractions such as the main tower, which has five stories and is 42 meters tall. There is also a museum where visitors can explore and know the city’s history.
4. Floating Garden Observatory
Floating Garden Observatory is also known as Sky Garden. It is located between the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka’s Umeda District. The observatory has three floors, 39th, 40th, and rooftop. There is a bridge that is well famed for providing its visitors with an unobstructed 360-degree view of Osaka. To reach the observatory deck, visitors need to take an elevator up to the 35th floor. Make sure to visit the doughnut-shaped observatory to enjoy panoramic views of Osaka Castle, Rokko Mountains, and Mount Ikoma from indoor or outdoor platforms.
5. Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a district in Osaka, Japan. It is known as one of Osaka’s principal tourist and nightlife areas. Dotonbori is considered to be one of the top Osaka beautiful places. It is famous for its busy walkways and bridges. This is a place where numerous Japanese theatres originated. It is also known for the many large neon signs and billboards that are displayed here. However, Dotonbori is a popular area to enjoy Osaka’s vibrant nightlife and food scene.
6. Namba Yasaka Shrine
Namba Yasaka Shrine is one of the most unique places and attractions. It is the Shinto Shrine in Osaka. A shrine for Gion worship dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The visually mesmerizing shrine features a huge stage, that has been shaped like the head of the lion. The lion-shaped building is famous in Japan. The lion motif was likely influenced by the style of temples in Taiwan.
7. Shitenno Ji Temple
Shitenno Ji Temple is a Buddhist temple in Osaka, Japan. It is also known as Arahaka-ji, Nanba-ji. These temple buildings have been rebuilt a few times over the centuries. Shitenno Ji Temple has roots that date back to as early as AD 59. It is considered one of the best and oldest in Osaka. The main attraction of this ancient temple is the five-story pagoda, along with many other intricately designed and decorated buildings. Visitors can find paintings and statues, the Lecture Hall, and a corridor that links multiple gates of the temple.
8. Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan is a theme park located in Osaka, Japan. It was Opened on March 31, 2001. The first Universal Studios location in Asia. It features a colorful assortment of iconic characters such as Spider-Man, Hello Kitty, and Shrek, and its appeal surpasses even Tokyo Disney Resort. There are more than 60 thrilling rides and attractions. Visitors can experience an adrenaline rush on well-known rides like Harry PotterTM, the Forbidden Journey, and Mario Kart – Koopa’s Challenge. However, Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is a top attraction, offering exciting rides and entertainment in many Japanese trip packages.