2025 Osaka Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

I planned a full day at the 2025 Osaka Expo, and I truly believe that preparation is crucial! We reserved a 9 AM entry slot and arrived at the venue by 8 AM to queue up. Even at that early hour, there were already plenty of people waiting to get in. The popularity of the Expo is absolutely impressive 🔥 There are numerous pavilions, but many of the popular ones require advance lottery-based reservations, such as the Gundam Pavilion, Monster Hunter Pavilion, and null2 Pavilion. These attractions cannot be booked on-site, so you’ll need to plan your time and sessions ahead of time; otherwise, you’ll only be able to take photos from the outside. For first-time visitors, I recommend prioritizing reservations for the pavilions you’re most interested in and then using the remaining time to explore freely. The venue is enormous, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and have a schedule ready! Overall, the experience is incredibly enriching, and with proper preparation, you can truly make the most of your visit.

#OsakaFoodGuide Help! I found a super breakfast shop in Osaka ✨ "Pant Espresso Sakaisuji Club" converted from a bank, which is only a 5-minute walk from Nagahoribashi. It's so convenient! The store opens at 8 o'clock and it's very stylish! As soon as you enter the door, there is a full bread and dessert area. Everyone must order a drink. After choosing the bread, you can choose to heat it on the spot or take it away~ We ordered a breakfast set, and the toast plate is super rich with sweet and salty! Although the set also includes drinks, I chose to order it a la carte for beautiful cold drinks. The latte art of the hot latte is also super beautiful! The clerk is super patient and keeps helping to recommend. The service is full💯 The first batch of customers in the store were local grandparents. We arrived at 9:30 and waited for half an hour, but everything was worth it! The set meal was so delicious that you licked the plate. The staff also carefully helped to pack up the small bread that you couldn't finish. I saw many locals come to pack bread directly, without queuing at all! I will go to this restaurant next time I come to Osaka! My dears, please save the address and choose this place for breakfast~ 📍15-12 Minamisenba, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture, Sakaisuji Club 1F #Osaka Breakfast Recommendation #Osaka Food #Bank Renovation Cafe #Osaka Tourism Must-Check-in

Scream! The Takashimaya in Osaka hides the most comprehensive Sanrio store in Kansai. After visiting three or four Sanrio stores and failing to find My Sweet Piano, I finally fulfilled my dream at Osaka Takashimaya 😭!! It's truly the "Sanrio Paradise of Kansai," and Sanrio fans absolutely cannot miss it! Located on the 6th floor in the children's clothing and accessories section, the store greets you with walls filled with adorable Sanrio merchandise as soon as you step in! Not only does it have the super rare My Sweet Piano items, but it also features many lesser-known characters' charms and plushies, making it a treasure trove for fans! From stationery and tableware to bedding and other home goods, the selection is incredibly comprehensive. You can even try your luck with the highly popular Ichiban Kuji lottery here—it's so amazing you'll shop until your feet hurt and still won't want to leave! The best part? You can store your luggage conveniently on the 7th floor of Takashimaya! No need to carry heavy bags while shopping—so thoughtful 💖 Whether you're looking to collect limited editions or buy cute gifts for friends, this store has it all! Sharing some fresh photos from the scene—hurry and find your favorite character! Sanrio fans, make sure to bookmark this store!

#MayGoodplace2025 #OsakaFood #OsakaTravel #FriedSteak Recently, the Osaka World Expo has been a hot topic. I didn't expect that this super popular and unforgettable fried steak ceiling would come to my mind. It's near JR Osaka Station and the store with the longest queue at lucua10F in Umeda Department Store😂 🌟I fell in love with it so late because I wondered why steak had to be fried🤣The first time I took a bite, I realized that the wonderful taste is that you can taste the tenderness of the beef at the same time, and it is slowly fried to your preferred degree of doneness, and the crispy taste of the bread crumbs is still there. You can eat one without realizing it (it is recommended for boys to eat more than 1.5 pieces)😋 🌟 Each person is equipped with a small stove, and can fry the meat to the degree of doneness they like, add three kinds of dipping sauces: yam grated, sweet mustard sauce, and soy sauce mustard, and there are side dishes like pickles mixed with rice. Everyone knows that Japanese white rice is invincible. Fried steak is really delicious💕It’s also great to end with a fern cake as a dessert! 📍530-0001 Osaka Prefecture Osaka City Kita-ku Umeda 3-chome 1-3 LUCUA 10F 💰Per capita consumption: starting from 1 wagyu beef 1930 yen, 1.5 wagyu beef 2600 yen, 2 wagyu beef 3060 yen (cannot be shared)

If you're unsure about visiting the American Pavilion at the Osaka Expo, this guide is for you! With so many pavilions to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. Many people recommend the American Pavilion, but is it really worth the wait? Here's everything you need to know to make your decision 🇺🇸 ＼Why the American Pavilion at the Osaka Expo is worth the wait／ Honestly, I expected long lines, but it was absolutely worth it! The American Pavilion 🇺🇸 is a must-visit, especially for those who have studied in the U.S., love baseball, or are fascinated by space 🥺 The cutting-edge technology combined with entertainment creates an immersive visual experience that feels like stepping into a Hollywood movie. The rocket launch display, in particular, gave me chills! Beyond the exhibits, the pavilion showcases the essence of modern America, which left me deeply moved 🥹. A large monitor displays videos, and at one point, a star-shaped character sings "together♩together♪~." That moment really struck a chord with me—it felt like an invitation to envision the future together with America 😍. Be prepared for potentially long waits, sometimes up to two hours. While the wait time is significant, the experience is even more rewarding! ↓ Who might not enjoy the American Pavilion 👦 Those who aren't interested in America 🇺🇸 This applies to all international pavilions—exhibits from countries you're passionate about are often the most engaging! For example, if you love music, Austria 🇦🇹 or Poland 🇵🇱 might be great choices with displays related to Mozart or Chopin. As someone studying in Malaysia 🇲🇾, I found the Malaysian Pavilion fascinating and shared lots of information with my family through its exhibits. So, if you're unsure, start with the pavilion of a country you love 👀 2025

Can't keep it a secret anymore! The hidden gem of Osaka locals, Kizu Market, is a must-visit spot that you'll regret missing. Recommended by locals, Kizu Market truly lives up to its reputation as a hidden foodie paradise! Head there at 7 AM, and you'll hardly see any tourists—it's quiet and perfect for a leisurely stroll and bite. Be sure to check out the fish bowl stall at the entrance, which always has a long line. Pro tip: divide and conquer—have one person queue while the other explores and grabs other delicious treats to maximize efficiency! The market is divided into a supermarket area and a seafood section. Though it's not huge, it's incredibly fun to browse, and you can eat and shop to your heart's content in just an hour! Highly recommend the sashimi box in photo 4 for 2,000 yen—the crab meat is sweet and silky, and the scallops are so tender they melt in your mouth, far surpassing what you'd get at a regular restaurant! However, the strawberries were a miss—guess nothing beats our Dandong 99! If you want to experience authentic Osaka life, this is the place to be! Few crowds, affordable prices, and everything you buy is a hit. Just go for it!

Must-visit treasure stores that will make you shop till you drop. A trip to Osaka wouldn’t be complete without visiting Shinsaibashi! This one-stop shopping paradise offers everything from drugstores and trendy brands to vintage shops. Here’s a curated list of must-visit stores to ensure a hassle-free shopping spree—follow along and shop without regrets! 🌟【For Drugstore Enthusiasts】 • Matsumoto Kiyoshi (Shinsaibashi Main Store) Open 24 hours with Chinese-speaking staff, and the shelves are super organized! Stock up on Anessa sunscreen, Rohto eye drops, and face masks piled high like mountains. Don’t forget to spend over 5,000 yen to qualify for tax refunds, and grab discount coupons at the entrance before checkout! • Daikoku Drugstore More budget-friendly than Matsumoto Kiyoshi, with must-buy items like large bottles of Hatomugi Skin Conditioner and Utena face masks! Note that some branches only accept cash, so make sure to exchange yen in advance. 🌟【Fashion Buyer’s Paradise】 • BEAMS T (Shinsaibashi Store) A representative of Japanese streetwear! Their T-shirts and shirts are full of creative designs, and the second floor features playful cartoon collaborations. Both men’s and women’s collections offer delightful surprises. • GR8 A must-visit for multi-brand store lovers! Featuring American streetwear brands like Champion and Stussy, the basement vintage section is packed with treasures, including retro denim pieces waiting to be discovered. 🌟【Vintage Lover’s Haven】 • RAGTAG (Shinsaibashi Store) A second-hand store as tidy as a department store! Immaculate Chanel and LV monogram pieces are well-displayed, and their try-on service is super thoughtful. Check the tags for "Tax Refund Available" before purchasing. • KOMEHYO (Shinsaibashi Store) A large chain of second-hand stores offering jewelry, watches, and bags. The first-floor European antique jewelry section is dreamy, perfect for finding unique and niche items. 🌟【For Dessert Lovers】 • LeTAO Otaru Cheesecake Shop Their popular double-layer cheesecake is a must-buy! The chilled version is creamy and smooth, and there’s often a long queue at the entrance—visit in the morning to avoid the crowd. • APITA Supermarket (Shinsaibashi Store) An excellent spot for souvenir shopping! They offer Royce Nama Chocolate, Shiroi Koibito, and Strawberry Daifuku. Some items are eligible for on-site tax refunds. Small Tips: 1. Shinsaibashi Shopping Street becomes a pedestrian-only zone on weekends, making it more enjoyable to stroll around. 2. Always carry your passport, as it’s required for tax refund registration. 3. Popular drugstores may run out of stock after 3 PM, so it’s best to shop in the morning. Follow this guide to shop from morning till night without stopping! Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a large suitcase. 🛒

Shopping Guide Attention all craft lovers! MALAIKA, a 5-story store in Osaka's Shinsaibashi, is a dream come true for anyone into handmade goods. I couldn't stop exploring! Especially the third floor, which is packed with fabrics, buttons, and small accessories for crafting. From finished products to semi-finished items and raw materials, everything is incredibly comprehensive✨ The fabric quality here is outstanding. While the prices were originally on the higher side, they’re now offering a 50% discount on all raw materials! You can even fill a special bag with small fabric scraps for just a few hundred yen, sparking endless creative inspiration. It's truly a paradise for craft enthusiasts😍 Whether you're into sewing, embroidery, or patchwork, you're bound to find treasures here! With five full floors, each hiding unique surprises—from stationery to craft supplies—you could spend an entire day here without getting bored. Take advantage of the discount period and bring your craft-loving friends along for a shopping spree! Make sure to bookmark this amazing store because you absolutely can't miss it on your next trip to Osaka's Shinsaibashi!

Who can relate? 😭 I stumbled upon this hidden gem in Shinsaibashi and ended up shopping until I couldn’t walk anymore! They have an incredible collection of unique items from all over the world, and every single piece perfectly matches my aesthetic. I spent over an hour browsing and still didn’t want to leave. The best part? The prices are super affordable! You can get small accessories for just 10 yen, making it a paradise for students on a budget. I spent just over 100 yen and got a gold-plated silver ring with amazing quality, and for 80 yen, I snagged a rustic moon bracelet that instantly elevates any outfit. The store is also filled with charming bells and incense that make you want to take everything home. The most unbelievable find was this Peruvian national treasure-level wooden box! It’s sold for over 200 yen online, but here it was only 90 yen!! The quality and craftsmanship are on par with high-end products—what a steal! 📍 Address: Malaika Shinsaibashi, Japan, 〒541-0058 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Minamikyuhojimachi, 3 Chome−3−1, Semba Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, Malaika Shinsaibashi Building If you’re heading to Osaka, you have to check this place out! It’s a hidden shopping paradise you’ll regret missing! 💥

You’ll regret buying too few. Attention, ladies heading to Osaka! Hankyu Department Store B1 is a paradise for souvenirs. These popular snacks are guaranteed hits—no regrets! ✨ Butter Tree Cookies are a must! Each bite is filled with rich butter flavor, and the sweetness is just right—not overly sugary like some Japanese desserts. Perfect for all ages! I stocked up on several boxes, and they were gone in no time after I got back home. Now I regret not buying more 😭. You can also find them at 7-Eleven, but the packaging at Hankyu is more elegant, making them ideal for gifts or personal enjoyment. ✨ Echire’s butter cookies and biscuits are also amazing! They’re soft, crumbly, and burst with buttery aroma. The packaging exudes sophistication, making them perfect for gifting. With so many varieties to choose from, you can’t go wrong with any of them—though indecisive shoppers beware 🤣. ✨ Baton’s Hermes Pocky is a local favorite and sells out every afternoon! The classic butter flavor is the most iconic. Its rich, crispy texture pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. 📍 Address: Osaka Hankyu Department Store B1 (Tax refunds available!) Next time you’re in Osaka, make sure to add these to your shopping cart! 💥

Help! I've discovered a must-visit haven for Sanrio lovers in Shinsaibashi! This Daiso store had me shopping until my legs gave out 🥹. Spanning three entire floors filled with super cute Sanrio items, and the best part? Everything is just 100 yen! This price point makes achieving Sanrio freedom a reality. The moment you step inside, you're surrounded by Kuromi, My Melody, and Cinnamoroll! From stationery, storage boxes, and tableware to hair accessories and plush toys, every corner is packed with surprises bursting with cuteness ✨. Adorably designed cups, towels featuring character prints, and super practical stationery sets—everything makes you want to take it all home! The three-floor space is huge, and if you take your time, you'll uncover tons of hidden gems. Whether you're collecting for yourself or looking for souvenirs, this place is perfect! If you're in Osaka's Shinsaibashi, you absolutely can't miss this magical store. For just 100 yen, you can fill your day with happiness. Sanrio fans, don't wait—just go for it!

Originally, I just came to Namba PARKS to grab a bite, but I was completely captivated by the adorable "Bread Thief" display at the entrance of VILLAGE VANGUARD! The moment I stepped inside, it felt like I had entered another dimension—walls filled with toys and figurines that left me absolutely stunned! ✨ From the super cute Bread Thief series to popular anime characters and trendy blind box collectibles, this place has it all! Beyond the exquisite figurines, there are also magazines, adorable snacks, and surprises hidden on every shelf. The best part? It's incredibly quiet on weekdays, so you can browse leisurely without the crowds, making it a truly relaxing shopping experience. Whether you're a kid at heart or a dedicated figurine collector, this store will make it impossible for you to leave! And here's a tip: snapping a few photos here will give you some seriously aesthetic shots. Next time you're in Namba, make sure to add this magical store to your must-visit list! 📍5th Floor, Namba PARKS. Just go for it!

Every time I pass by "ARROW TREE (Whity Umeda Store)" in Osaka Umeda, the rich, sweet aroma always stops me in my tracks! Especially the strawberry cakes displayed in the window, piled high like a mountain. Topped with luscious Fukuoka Amaou strawberries and fluffy whipped cream that looks like clouds, just one glance is enough to make your heart flutter! The Amaou strawberries truly live up to their reputation—each one is plump, juicy, and incredibly sweet. Paired with the light chiffon cake and creamy whipped topping, the layers of flavor are so rich they might just bring tears to your eyes! Besides the strawberry cake, their egg tarts are also a fan favorite. The crispy tart shell encases a silky custard filling, with a caramelized aroma that bursts in your mouth, delivering pure happiness. Whether as an afternoon treat or something to savor at home, it's absolutely perfect! Every bite feels like it melts away all your worries. If you're in Osaka Umeda, you must visit this place! Be sure to go early, or you might miss out! ✨

When visiting Osaka, don't just head to 7-Eleven! The underground supermarkets in department stores near shopping districts are the true hidden gems! You'll regret not discovering them sooner 😭 From fresh sushi and sashimi to premium wagyu beef and exquisite salads, the variety of food is overwhelming, and every item is crafted like a piece of art! Pro tip: Go shopping after 7 PM! This is when tons of ready-to-eat meals and bento boxes go on clearance, often at half price, letting you snag high-quality dishes for a steal 💰. Japanese dairy products are also a must-try—whether it's milk, yogurt, or pudding, you can't go wrong. The rich, creamy flavors are simply addictive! I ended up clearing out the seasoning section, ready to showcase my cooking skills back home. Next time you're in Osaka, make sure to save some stomach space and shopping bags to raid these underground supermarkets! It's a win-win deal you can't miss. Go for it, foodies! #OsakaSupermarkets #SupermarketAdventures

OMG! I discovered an amazing BBQ restaurant in Osaka called "Yakiniku Gyuma Yotsubashi Branch," and it's a dream come true for black-haired Wagyu beef fans 😍. Specializing in premium Japanese black-haired Wagyu, the meat is so tender it feels like it's dancing on your tongue. You might even get a chance to try Kobe beef here, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture that will send you straight to heaven! Every bite is pure happiness, and you'll definitely want to add this place to your must-visit list! The location is super convenient—situated in Kita-Horie, Nishi-ku, Osaka City, it's just a 1-minute walk from Exit 5 of Yotsubashi Station and only 6 minutes from Exit 7 of Shinsaibashi Station! Perfect for a post-shopping feast! The restaurant also offers private rooms, making it ideal for business dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoying BBQ while chatting in a cozy, private setting is such a chill experience. The best part? They even offer Chinese-language service! No need to worry about language barriers—communication is stress-free. Open from 11 AM to 11 PM, you can drop by anytime to indulge in Wagyu beef. Next time you're in Osaka, make sure to lock in this spot! 📍Address: 1-2-16 Kita-Horie, Nishi-ku, Osaka City 🚇Subway: 1-minute walk from Exit 5 of Yotsubashi Station, 6-minute walk from Exit 7 of Shinsaibashi Station 🕰️Business Hours: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM

Who would have thought? In Osaka, you can savor Kobe beef for the price of a cup of milk tea! "Motsuhiko Shinsaibashi Europe Street Branch" is a paradise for budget travelers, and I've visited it three times already! While I loved dining here at night, I recently discovered their lunch special available from 12 PM to 5 PM, which is the ultimate value for money! ✨ The Kobe beef lean meat served is incredibly generous in portion, tender, juicy, and paired with a vegetable platter and udon noodles—enough to leave you stuffed! You can even upgrade to their premium Kobe beef selection, which boasts perfect marbling and melts in your mouth when dipped in egg sauce. The best part? You leave without any greasy smell on your clothes, thanks to their top-notch ventilation system! From the ambiance to the service, everything is flawless. Whether you're a student or working on a tight budget, this place is a no-brainer! No wonder locals are flocking here to check it out. Next time I'm in Osaka, this spot is definitely on my list again! 📍 Motsuhiko Shinsaibashi Europe Street Branch 1-15-15-B1F (Basement Level 1), Higashi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

OMG! Discovered this dreamy parfait specialty shop "Night Parfait Specialty Store Parfaiteria Pal" in Shinsaibashi, and it’s absolutely stunning! Open from 5 PM till late night, every parfait here is a true work of art. The shop offers six dreamy parfaits, and the hand-drawn menu looks exactly like the real thing. They even provide an English menu, which is super thoughtful! Highly recommended options👇 🍑 Peach Parfait: Rich black tea ice cream with a fragrant aroma, paired with over ten ingredients for an incredibly diverse texture! The pomegranate mousse in the middle is sweet and tangy, a perfect palate opener—love at first bite! 🍇 Kyoho Grape Parfait: The staff’s recommendation is spot on! Juicy grapes generously layered on top, with pineapple jelly inside that’s perfect for balancing the sweetness. 🌰 Pistachio Chocolate Parfait: Creamy pistachio ice cream with a crunchy texture—chocolate lovers, this one’s a must-try! Each parfait is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, featuring fresh fruits and multi-layered textures for a complete sensory experience! Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as it’s often crowded. Save the address and go for it👇 📍Japan, 〒542-0083 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Higashishinsaibashi, 1 Chome−17−15 Maru Kiyo Building, 3rd Floor Dessert lovers, don’t miss out!

Help! It's my third visit to "WABISABI Hozensha Main Store," and I'm still blown away! This understated treasure is tucked away in the alleys of Namba, offering an unparalleled dining experience from ambiance to flavor. As soon as you step inside, the serene and classical atmosphere instantly soothes your soul. The private rooms are perfect for family gatherings or romantic dates! Specializing in Kobe beef and Omi beef, the marbling is so exquisite it looks like a work of art. The melt-in-your-mouth texture brings an explosion of happiness with every bite! Here's your must-order guide👇 ✔️ Kobe Beef Platter: Sample multiple cuts in one go—no misses here! ✔️ Thick-Cut Premium Beef Tongue: Chewy and flavorful, it gets better with every bite. ✔️ Premium Short Ribs: Tender, juicy, and bursting with rich aroma. ✔️ Beef Sushi: The perfect harmony of meat and rice—divine in every bite. ✔️ Beef Bone Soup: Warm and comforting, leaving you utterly satisfied. The best part? Attentive staff grill everything for you, and there's a menu in Chinese! Dirty utensils are replaced instantly, and they even help you take photos! If you're looking for a luxurious BBQ experience, this is the place to go—totally worth multiple visits! 📍WABISABI Hozensha Main Store Don't miss out, or you'll regret it! Grab your foodie friends and head over now!

Help! This tempura specialty shop has completely won me over! It's a weekend favorite, often packed with diners, and I finally got to try it—what a treat! The signature dish, "Ise Lobster Tempura Rice Bowl," is a visual feast the moment it arrives at your table. The whole lobster is freshly fried to a golden crisp, and when you peel off the shell, the meat is firm and springy. Pair it with juicy salmon roe and mix it with rice—it's so fresh it'll blow your mind! The thick-cut Sangen pork cutlet is another surprise; the meat is tender and juicy, and every bite bursts with flavor. I absolutely love the open kitchen setup in the restaurant. Watching the chefs fry tempura on the spot creates such a great atmosphere! Pair it with a glass of sake, and it's the perfect way to enjoy a weekend. Next time I'm in Osaka, I'll definitely come back for more!

Help! This seafood bowl has officially become my favorite! It's no exaggeration to say this is the most queue-worthy restaurant in Osaka. I woke up at 5 AM, took the first subway, and rushed over, only to find a massive crowd already gathered 😭 I ordered two signature bowls and was instantly blown away! The "Tuna, Sea Urchin, and Salmon Roe Bowl" with an extra egg yolk was divine. The salmon roe was juicy and fresh without any fishy taste; the Hokkaido sea urchin melted in my mouth; and the medium-fatty tuna was perfectly balanced, delivering an explosion of freshness with every bite! The "Salmon, Scallop, and Sea Urchin Bowl" was equally incredible. The scallops were tender and sweet, the salmon was rich yet not greasy, and every bite tasted like the ocean! The restaurant is located right behind the fish market, so I bought some Hokkaido sea urchin to take home. Even in the evening, it was still unbelievably fresh! Here's a heads-up 👇 ⏰ Opens at 6:30 AM, but people start queuing at 5:30 AM. By 7 AM, the line stretches onto the street. 🍚 Rice is limited and often sold out before 11 AM. 💴 Cash only, so don't forget to bring money! Seafood lovers, don't miss this! Waking up early for this is absolutely worth it!

A hidden gem discovered! This sushi restaurant in Osaka has become my go-to spot, and its Google rating consistently stays above 4.6. Every visit leaves me amazed by the freshness! Though the shop is small, it's always packed with locals, and the walls are adorned with thank-you letters and awards from fans, giving you a sense of trust and comfort. Each piece of sushi feels like opening a surprise box! The thickly sliced sashimi is piled so high you can barely see the rice. The tuna, in particular, is rich in fat and melts in your mouth, with a chewy and sweet freshness. The chef also regularly develops new dishes, so there's always something exciting to try! The most touching part is the price! My friends and I ordered three plates of sushi, five types of sashimi, and tempura, and the cost per person was under 200 yen! There’s no hidden menu, so even students can enjoy it without worry. The shop exudes a strong local vibe, making the experience not just about sushi but also about the warmth of local life. 📍Sushi Restaurant Maguro Ittetsu (立ち寿司 まぐろ一徹 千日前店) Sushi lovers, save this address! Missing out on this place in Osaka would be a lifelong regret!

A hidden gem discovered! This century-old sushi restaurant in Osaka offers an incredible variety of sushi for just over 100 yen per person. It's packed with locals but still under the radar for tourists! Located right next to the Central Market, the freshness is off the charts. 💡 Insider Tips: ✅ Walk-ins only! Each table has a 45-minute time limit, so it's best to arrive early. ✅ Closed on Sundays and only open until 1:30 PM on weekdays—go early to secure your spot. ✅ Choose from 4 combo platters or order à la carte, with the option to swap items (except toro!). ✅ The 400-yen soup is optional and has a rich flavor profile. ⚠️ A 2000-yen fine for food waste, so order responsibly! Every piece of sushi here is so fresh it practically glows✨. The uni is creamy, the salmon is rich, and the vinegared rice is perfectly balanced. This is where you can experience the purest flavors of traditional Japanese sushi. After dining here, you'll want to add it to your bucket list! Sushi lovers, grab your foodie friends and head over before the tourists catch on—missing out would be a regret!

The Osaka cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is the perfect time for both flower viewing and shopping, as the city becomes even more enchanting under the backdrop of pink blossoms. Shinsaibashi and Namba are the shopping hubs, with bustling shopping streets near the food alleys offering everything from drugstores to trendy fashion at affordable prices. Hidden gems like second-hand kimono shops or artisan craft stores in the alleys often bring delightful surprises, ideal for finding unique souvenirs. Umeda’s Osaka Frontline Shopping Center is another hotspot, featuring international brands and Japanese goods. Whether it’s stylish fashion items or exquisite trinkets, there’s something to captivate everyone. The cherry blossom trail next to the mall allows you to enjoy springtime romance while shopping. At Tennoji’s Abeno Shopping Center, you can combine high-end department store shopping with breathtaking views from its observation deck, offering a unique experience of shopping while overlooking the cherry blossom scenery. To enhance your shopping experience, it’s recommended to check for mall promotions in advance, such as tax-free offers or seasonal discounts. Avoiding weekend crowds can make your shopping trip more enjoyable. Carrying a lightweight shopping bag makes it easier to switch between flower viewing and shopping. The shopping journey during Osaka’s cherry blossom season is not just about spending but also immersing yourself in the spring atmosphere and cultural experience, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

It's been such a long time since my last visit to Osaka 😭 This is my first trip since the COVID-19 pandemic. Navigating Namba Station's underground area was quite overwhelming with its numerous exits. As a first-time solo traveler, I found it quite challenging. However, if you manage to find Exit B6, the hotel is right there. Just a heads-up, Exit B6 doesn't have an elevator. Actually, I couldn't even find Exit B6 and ended up coming out of another exit and walking up to the hotel. The lobby was incredibly clean and spacious, completely defying my expectations of Toyoko Inn being old and cramped. It opened in July 2023, so it's incomparable to other older hotels in Japan! The staff at the front desk were super friendly and welcoming. Even though I don't speak Japanese, I managed to understand them somehow 😂. The self-check-in machine was fascinating, and it even had a Korean language option—amazing! There's a section where you need to input your Korean address, and I was initially worried about writing it all in English, but it turns out you can just write "Korea." That saved me from a lot of confusion. You can conveniently pick up amenities from the desk. I even brought a portable luggage scale, but the lobby already had a scale available 👍🏻—so convenient! Inside the lobby, there's a public restroom, vending machines, a microwave, an ice machine, and a water dispenser. Note that there’s no bottled water in the rooms, so you’ll need to buy or fill up your own. Also, the gowns are provided separately for you to take. Check-in time is at 3 PM, and I was wondering what to do with my luggage. Thankfully, there are storage lockers in the basement. I initially thought they couldn’t be used on the day of check-out, but it turns out they can! You just set a password and use them easily. When I made my reservation, I requested a high floor, and they gave me the top floor 😄. The bathroom was small but very clean, so no complaints there. The bathroom amenities included toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and hand soap, so you don’t need to bring much. The breakfast buffet schedule is great, and since it’s included in the price, it’s a fantastic deal. I went down a little after 8 AM wearing a cap, and people were already enjoying their meals 😮. There’s a salad corner and a variety of bread. You can make sandwiches by combining the salad and bread. The hot food menu changes daily. On the basement level 2, there’s a separate coffee and bread corner, which was a nice touch. If you’re looking for a hotel in Namba, I highly recommend Toyoko Inn Hotel 👍🏻.

Katsuo-ji Temple, located in the southern part of Osaka, is renowned for its stunning wisteria flowers. Upon entering the temple, you'll find a small wisteria trellis on the right, offering a delightful preview. However, the main attraction lies on the left side facing the main hall—a vast trellis where wisteria sways gracefully in the sunlight, while the white wisteria quietly emits its delicate fragrance. This ancient temple, built in the latter half of the 7th century, is the fifth stop on the Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage. It houses the Eleven-Faced Thousand-Armed Kannon statue from the Nara period, designated as a National Treasure of Japan and the only ancient Buddha statue in Osaka. On the 18th of each month, the temple holds a special open viewing, allowing visitors to closely experience the thousand-year-old history. Legend has it that this ancient Buddha statue was specially crafted by Emperor Shōmu to ward off misfortune. The statue was created using a technique popular during the Nara period: clay was shaped and covered with hemp cloth, then refined with wood chips and dry lacquer to form the intricate eleven faces and thousand arms. This method is considered more challenging than casting bronze statues. Over the centuries, the statue has become a central figure of faith for the people of Osaka. The temple's significance even led to the surrounding area being named Katsuo-ji City. A unique feature of the temple is its incense ritual. The incense is laid flat in a radiating pattern within the incense burner, and worshippers fan the smoke onto themselves, symbolizing receiving blessings. 📍Address: 〒583-0024 Osaka Prefecture, Fujiidera City, Fujiidera 1-chome, 16-21 🚗 Access: Take the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line to Katsuo-ji Station, then walk for five minutes.

The subway entrance is literally inside the hotel! Located right above Tennoji Station, just take the elevator from the station directly to the lobby—no need to drag your luggage under the sun 🌤️. Next door is the massive Kintetsu Department Store, so you can shop and easily bring your purchases back to your room! You can also take the Haruka Express to Kansai Airport. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows! Enjoy breathtaking Osaka night views from your bed. Spacious and elegantly designed. Just 10 minutes to Shinsaibashi! Popular areas like Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Umeda are all about 10 minutes away by subway.

With just one pass? You can enjoy almost all of Osaka's tourist attractions—it's a great tip 👍 Choose between a 1-day or 2-day pass! Summary of usage locations: ✅ Osaka Castle Main Tower ✅ Osaka Castle Gozabune Boat Ride ✅ Housing Museum ✅ HEP Five Ferris Wheel ✅ Tsutenkaku Tower ✅ Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory ✅ Dotonbori Wonder Cruise ✅ Dotonbori River Cruise

Summary of the Expo! It was Golden Week and there were a lot of people, but we made a reservation for the pavilion in advance and they had basically taken measures to prevent crowds, so we didn't have to line up for anything and it was a comfortable Expo. On the way there and back, we could sit down if we waited for the train, and there were benches so it wasn't too difficult to take a break or eat a meal! It was still Golden Week so the temperature itself wasn't that high (23-24 degrees) so a short sleeve shirt and a jacket was just right, but the sun was quite strong, and there was almost no shade except for the large roof ring, so I think that if you're going there, a parasol, sunglasses, and other measures against the heat are a must. It was also good that we could go there safely even with a baby. My daughter was scared of the dark and loud noises, but she was very interested in looking around and I think it was a good stimulus for her. My daughter probably doesn't remember it lol, but it was a good memory 🫧 For those who are going, ・Make reservations in advance if you can ・Download the app ・Don't bring canned drinks (except canned milk) ・Make sure you take precautions against the heat ・Wear comfortable shoes If you do these things, I think you'll enjoy it! 📍 #OsakaExpo #EnjoyJapan