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Osaka, the vibrant cosmopolitan city of Japan, is a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed by travelers. With its diverse culinary scene, expansive underground shopping malls, and warm and welcoming locals, Osaka has so much to offer beyond its delicious food and iconic Osaka Castle. As the capital of the Kansai region and often referred to as the “Manchester of Japan,” this bustling city is a must-visit destination. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere, explore the lively neighborhoods, and discover the unique cultural experiences that await you in Osaka. It’s time to add Osaka to your travel itinerary and unlock a whole new world of excitement and wonder in Japan.
Where to Stay in Osaka
As you would expect from a major Japanese city, Osaka has no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. As always, I’d suggest you stay somewhere central, to make accessing all the attractions as easy as possible.
The best places to stay are Namba and Umeda. However, my suggestion would be to stay near Namba Station. From Namba station it is an easy 5-minute walk to Dotonbori Arcade, plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and street food options.
Best Luxury Accommodations in Osaka:
The St. Regis Osaka: Experience luxury at its finest at The St. Regis Osaka. Located in the heart of the city, this prestigious hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with elegant décor and stunning city views. Indulge in exceptional dining experiences, unwind at the spa and fitness center, or simply relax in the comfort of your luxurious accommodation. The St. Regis Osaka sets the standard for opulence and sophistication.
InterContinental Osaka: Situated in the vibrant Umeda district, InterContinental Osaka combines modern elegance with impeccable service. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites adorned with contemporary Japanese design elements. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including fine dining options, a rooftop bar with panoramic views, and a luxurious spa. With its prime location and luxurious offerings, InterContinental Osaka is a top choice for discerning travelers.
The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka: Experience unmatched luxury and legendary service at The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka. This iconic hotel showcases refined accommodations, lavish amenities, and a sophisticated ambiance. From spacious rooms and suites to exquisite dining options and a tranquil spa, every aspect of The Ritz-Carlton exudes elegance and indulgence. Immerse yourself in the ultimate luxury experience in the heart of Osaka.
Best Mid-Range Accommodations in Osaka
Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka: Nestled in the Namba district, Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka offers a blend of European charm and Japanese hospitality. The hotel features tastefully decorated rooms with modern amenities, including a fitness center and multiple dining options. Its convenient location allows easy access to popular attractions and shopping districts. Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka provides comfortable accommodation with a touch of elegance.
Cross Hotel Osaka: Located in the bustling Shinsaibashi area, Cross Hotel Osaka combines contemporary design with a vibrant atmosphere. The rooms are stylishly decorated and equipped with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy the trendy rooftop bar, a variety of dining options, and the convenient location near shopping and entertainment venues. Cross Hotel Osaka offers a trendy and affordable option for travelers seeking a memorable stay.
Hotel Nikko Osaka: Conveniently situated near Osaka Station, Hotel Nikko Osaka offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities. The hotel features multiple dining options, including a revolving restaurant with panoramic city views. Guests can also enjoy the indoor pool, fitness center, and convenient access to transportation. Hotel Nikko Osaka provides a pleasant mid-range stay in a central location.
Best Hostels in Osaka:
J-Hoppers Osaka Guesthouse: Perfect for budget travelers, J-Hoppers Osaka Guesthouse offers affordable accommodation with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The hostel provides dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, as well as communal areas for socializing and meeting fellow travelers. Conveniently located near major attractions, J-Hoppers Osaka Guesthouse is an ideal choice for backpackers and those seeking a budget-friendly option.
Begin your search for the perfect accommodation now while the excitement is still fresh in your mind. Discover stylish and affordable options, and find the best accommodations at the lowest prices:
Explore a wide range of hotels in Japan here (Booking.com)
Explore a wide range of hotels in Japan here (Tripadvisor)
Explore a wide range of hotels in Japan here (Agoda)
Discover affordable hostels in Japan here (Hostelworld)
Easily compare prices and book hotels in Japan here (Hotellook)
Here are 21 Interesting Facts about Osaka you probably didn’t know:
The founders of the city – Rennyo, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Godai Tomoatsu and Seki Hajime, were actually not from Osaka. Osaka’s founders contributed to the advanced development, architecture and modernizing the city and the subway system.
The name translates to“large hill” or “large slope” due to the fact that the city is surrounded by mountains.
After Tokyo and Yokohama and with a population of over 2.5 million people in its greater metropolitan area, the city is the third largest city In Japan.
Osaka is also the capital city of the Kansai region and the largest of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto trio.
Osaka is famous for being the business center of Japan, but it also has a very rich history and unique culture! The city has roughly 3,395 temples which is the second most temples in Japan! The city is also home to many archeological ruins, ancient burial mounds, the most historical and retro buildings in Japan, and a large number of traditional events and festivals being held here every year.
The city was the capital of Japan many times due to its important port with lots of trade and business opportunities.
Naniwa-no-Miya Palace was built in the year of 650 in Osaka and was Japan’s first full-scale palace!
Due to its strategic location, the city has become the buzzing Economic Center of Japan and the gateway for travelers and traders from all over the World!
The World War II destroyed almost all historical monuments, buildings and tourist attractions. Many of these were rebuilt after the war.
Osaka Castle – the most famous building in the city, is a reconstruction and the third incarnation of the original one. The original Castle was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and was destroyed during the Natsuno Jin battle in 1615. A Tokugawa’s version of the Castle was built on top of it but some 50 years later, even this initial reconstruction was destroyed in a fire caused by lightning.
Being a gourmand’s paradise and food heaven, the city is known as the “nation’s kitchen”. The most famous dishes from Osaka are takoyaki and okonomiyaki and the most famous food district (and the very best I’ve ever been to!) is Dotonbori.
Back in the days during the Edo period Osaka served as the center for rice trade.
One of the symbols of Osaka is the Dotonbori Glico Sign which is a huge billboard made by Ezaki Glicoin in 1935. The billboard which you can see nowadays is the sixth incarnation (from 2014) of the original one.
With its 2,6km, the Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai is the longest shopping street in Japan! Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai is home to more than 600 permanent shops, boutiques and restaurants.
You can see some Fossils from the Jurassic to Cretaceous periods in Umeda’s underground shopping complex for free!
Osaka’s Aquarium “Kaiyukan” is one of the largest aquariums in the world!
People of Osaka use their own dialect and some locals even refuse to use the official high Japanese language even when they are not in Osaka.
The city is the birthplace and is still very famous for its Kabuki and Bunraku theatres.
The favourite sport in Osaka is Baseball and almost all of all train companies own or owned a baseball team!
Located in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is the very first Universal Studios outside of the United States.
Osaka is a city with a strong comedy culture so saying to somebody “You are funny” is the best compliment for the people! Therefore the food capital of Japan feels more friendly than other major cities.
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Planning a trip to Japan?
Japan Accommodation
Begin your search for the perfect accommodation now while the excitement is still fresh in your mind. Discover stylish and affordable options, and find the best accommodations at the lowest prices:
- Explore a wide range of hotels in Japan by clicking here (Booking.com)
- Explore a wide range of hotels in Japan by clicking here (Tripadvisor)
- Explore a wide range of hotels in Japan by clicking here (Agoda)
- Discover affordable hostels in Japan by clicking here (Hostelworld)
- Easily compare prices and book hotels in Japan by clicking here (Hotellook).
Explore Asia
As a trusted platform, 12Go Asia offers convenient booking services for trains, buses, ferries, and flights across multiple Asian countries. 12Go Asia has a user-friendly interface and reliable connections, you can easily plan and book your transportation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey throughout your Asian adventure.
Japan Flights
Make the most of your trip by finding the most affordable flights. We highly recommend using Kiwi.com, a reliable flight comparison site. Click here to compare and book cheap flights to Japan.
Private Airport Transfers
Kiwitaxi is a popular online platform that specializes in providing private airport transfers and transportation services worldwide. It offers convenient and reliable door-to-door transfers between airports, hotels, and other destinations. With Kiwitaxi, you can pre-book private taxis or minivans with professional drivers, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Rental Car in Japan
Looking to rent a car in Japan? Rentalcars.com has you covered! We search through all the major car rental companies in Japan to find you the best price possible.
Japan Tours
If you enjoy guided tours, here you ca
Travel Insurance
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Enjoy the day!
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