Out of the big 3 (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka), most people disregard Osaka as a “boring place” or a “last stop” on their trip. But if it's not your first time to Japan and you love traveling to live like a local, you're really going to enjoy your time in Os...
Osaka castle is a must see, especially during cherry blossom season! It's a very popular tourist attraction that can get crowded, so come early, especially if you want a tour of the interior of the castle.
Osaka Castle
People usually get their fill of teamLab in Tokyo, but this is a special outdoor exhibit in Nagai park, which lights up in the night. This is different from any teamLab exhibit in Tokyo, so highly recommend you make the trip to see it!
teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
People think that stepping in this area will feel like America, but to be honest, it's a vibrant subculture of Osaka that has unique clothing, shops and great food options! Skateboarding and surfing culture is also very popular in this area!
Amerika-mura
Probably the most touristy area in Osaka, but there's a good reason for it. This is where food culture in Osaka really shows its true colors with so many options for Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and other street foods!
Dotonbori
While Tokyo has Disney, Osaka has Universal Studios! While a little bit out of the way, this is a perfect spot for fun with your family or friends! If you've been to Universal in America before, then there will probably be a lot of familiar attractio...
***BEST MEAL IN OSAKA*** You're not going to find a niche experience like this without my help; you might not even find the place since it's so hidden! But I was luckily enough to get to know former Michelin Star Chef Yu-san's restaurant and it was a magical experience. With...
If you haven't tried gyukatsu before, then you should try it at Motomura. The beef version of tonkatsu is famous for being super tender and juicy and is usually served on a sizzling stone!
If you're looking for a cute date spot to bring that significant other or someone that you met locally in Osaka, this cafe gives you the calming activity of making your own specialized tea or coffee drink and gives you a relaxing location to have dee...
Japanese Tea & Coffee Chashitsu
Located across the street from Utsubo Park in a relaxing neighborhood, this cafe is spacious and is great for meeting with friends or getting some work done. I spent my time with my Youtuber friend to catch up with him! Plus, the coffee and teas are ...
Standard Cafe&Gallery
*ONLY IN OSAKA* Michelin Star Curry
Did you know that Osaka is the ONLY place in Japan that has Michelin Star Curry Restaurants? I am a DIE-HARD fan of curry and Japanese curry is pretty high on my favorites! Don't miss an opportunity to explore some of the great curry places that rank...
The menu is simple but that means the curry is REALLY GOOD! Choose between the regular curry or add cheese or tonkatsu to make it more of a meal - but the curry sauce is what makes this restaurant well renowned.
Hakugintei
This restaurant offers North Indian Curry and Cuisine, which is a bit different from the other options in this list. But unlike many Japanese curry restaurants, this establishment also has vegetarian and vegan options!
Ganesh N
This curry combines Japanese and Indian curry flavors to create an aesthetic and flavorful journey. But, there are only 8 seats here, so it is first come first serve!
Synergy
With 15 seats, you might have a better chance trying this famed curry joint, offering more meat options with their curry dishes!
Watanabe Curry
Offering Indian styled curry with a rotating menu, this restaurant may be out of the touristy areas of Osaka, but that's when you know it's a hidden gem that is worth traveling for!
Teishokudo Kongoseki
Where to shop
A bit too touristy for my taste, but if you're looking for brand names and a little more, Shinsaibashi has it all. Plus, its close to Dotonbori, Amerika Mura and other spots that you probably have starred already on your google maps!
Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street
This is my favorite shopping streat to find great souvenier deals, delicious food and drink and a bustling culture that feels so different from the touristy areas of Osaka. It can be a little out of the way if you're staying closer to Dotonbori, but ...
Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street
Cheery, old-school covered shopping street lined with food, clothing & souvenir vendors.
Shinsekai Market
Located a bit south from other Dotonbori, this bustling, colorful district created in 1912 is home to a 103-m tower, restaurants & souvenir shops.
Shin Sekai "New World"
Of course Osaka's main station has great shopping, since the whole station is surrounded by malls, restaurants and, of course, Don Quijotes! You could spend days here just adding to your credit card balance!
