Osaka is the capital of Osaka Prefecture, and the largest city in Kansai, a region which also includes Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara. Osaka is one of the largest cities in Japan, third only to Tokyo and Yokohama in terms of population. However, Tokyo and Yokohama are seen as one large metropolitan area, so the designation as Japan’s “Second City” is usually given to Osaka.

Osaka Travel

Osaka prides itself as Japan’s culinary capital, a melting pot of cuisines and tastes. And because it is a major port city, it enjoys a continuous supply of fresh seafood, further fueling its culinary reputation.

While Tokyo can be a bit intimidating and overwhelming, Osaka has a casual atmosphere, a perfect entry point for first-time travelers to Japan. While the hustle-and-bustle is still there, the barrage of busyness is a bit more bearable than its larger eastern counterpart.

Attractions in Osaka include Universal Studios Japan, one of the most popular theme parks in the world in terms of visitors. If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy visiting Osaka Castle and Shitennoji temple. For shoppers and merry-makers, the Dotonbori-Shinsaibashi district should always be on top of your list.

Aside from all these, Osaka is also the primary gateway to the Kansai region. Kansai International Airport is the third busiest airport in Japan. If you’re traveling to other parts of the region like Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, Osaka can serve as your base of operations. The various trains, buses, and ferries at your disposal make traveling to these cities easy and efficient.

Additional information about Osaka:

Language: Japanese (Nihongo). English is rarely spoken by locals, but signs, tourist brochures, and other printed material are often bilingual and easy to understand.
Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥). JPY 1000 is at USD 9.36 as of March 2018
Money Exchange. There are a lot of money changers throughout Osaka, especially at Kansai International Airport, but it’s better to exchange before you make the trip. ATMs are available if you need cash right away.
Modes of payment: Cash is the preferred payment, but cards are accepted by most establishments. Shops on the more touristy areas often offer duty-free discounts if you show them your passport.
Electricity Info: 100V. Type A (Plugs with two flat pins), although Type B is sometimes used.

Plan Your Osaka Trip

Top Hotels and Hostels	Top Things to Do
Getting Around	Getting There

Osaka Travel Essentials

Osaka Pocket Wi-fi Stay Internet-connected while in Osaka! ➡️ RESERVE HERE	Japan Local SIM Local SIM Card with data plan! ➡️ RESERVE HERE
Universal Studios Japan 1-Day Pass Ride all you can at Universal Studios! ➡️ RESERVE HERE	Osaka Amazing Pass Unlimited subway rides and free entry to attractions. ➡️ RESERVE HERE!
ICOCA Card Easy access to train, subway and buses! ➡️ RESERVE HERE	JR Pass Unlimited train rides within the JR network. ➡️ RESERVE HERE

Top Osaka Hotels

Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel ➡️ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY	Khaosan World Tennoji ➡️ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan ➡️ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY	APA Hotel Higashi-Umeda Minami-morimachi-Ekimae ➡️ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY