Best Things to Do in Osaka: Castles, Markets and City Views
- The Anonymous Hungry Hippopotamus
- Mar 22
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Osaka may be famous as Japan's Kitchen, but the city offers far more than incredible food. The dynamic city of Osaka is one of the largest and most important urban centers in Japan, known for its energy, warmth, and distinct personality.
Historically, Osaka developed as a major commercial hub. That legacy is still reflected today in its bustling streets, modern skyline, and role as a center of business and culture.
Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street
(Longest Covered Shopping Arcade in Japan)
Compared to the more traditional atmosphere of its neighbor Kyoto, Osaka feels lively and contemporary, with a strong sense of local pride and individuality.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle
At the heart of the city, you'll find Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks.
Originally constructed in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle played a central role in the unification of Japan.
Although it has been rebuilt several times due to war and natural disasters, the current structure faithfully reflects its historic grandeur, with white walls, green-tiled roofs, and gold accents that gleam in the sunlight.
The castle stands eight stories tall with five external tiers, covering eight internal floors.
Ishiyama Hongan-ji Temple Marker
Surrounding the castle is the expansive Osaka Castle Park, which spans about 261 acres.
The park is particularly known for its wide open lawns, tree-lined paths, and seasonal beauty.
World Union Peace Monument
I found it especially beautiful during Fall when hundreds of trees across the grounds boasted shades of crimson and amber.
Osaka Skyline from Osaka Castle Park
This vast public space offers a contrast to the dense urban environment beyond its borders.
Osaka Castle Moat
One of the most striking features of the castle complex is its moat system, consisting of both inner and outer moats that encircle the castle. These moats, bordered by massive stone walls, were designed as defensive barriers and remain an impressive example of traditional Japanese fortification.
The stone walls themselves are remarkable, made from enormous, carefully fitted stones that have stood for centuries.
Toyotomi Hideyoshi Statue
Throughout the park, visitors can also find various monuments and historical markers related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the castle’s history. Statues, gates, and reconstructed turrets help tell the story of the site’s historic importance.
Kawasakibashi Bridge
A lovely way to enter or exit the park is over the pedestrian and cyclist, Kawasakibashi Bridge, which crosses ...
the scenic Okawa River that flows through the city center. Whichever routes you choose for ingress and egress, include this castle and park on your Osaka itinerary.
Dotomburi
In contrast to the tranquility of Osaka Park, my second sightseeing suggestion is Dotombori, known for its dazzling lights and energetic atmosphere.
Dotonbori Canal
Running through the heart of the area is the Dotonbori Canal, a narrow canal lined with promenades, restaurants, and towering neon signs. The canal reflects the bright lights of the district at night, creating a vivid, almost cinematic scene that has become one of the defining images of Osaka.
The district traces its roots to the early 17th century, when it emerged as Osaka's theater and entertainment quarter..
Although the theaters are largely gone, the spirit of entertainment remains, now expressed through bright signage, street performances, and an atmosphere that is constantly in motion.
Kani Doraku Dotonbori
One of the most memorable sights in Dotonbori is the famous restaurant, Kani Doraku Dotonbori Main Branch, instantly recognizable by the enormous, mechanical crab mounted above its entrance. The giant crab, with its dancing legs and claws, is one of the district’s most photographed features.
Equally entertaining, at least to me, and in line with animated food, are these bouncing noodles I found. See what I mean by a constantly moving environment?
A short walk along the canal leads to Ebisu-bashi Bridge, one of the most famous gathering spots in the city. From here, you can see the iconic Glico Running Man sign, often called the “Glico Man.”
The sign, depicting a runner crossing a finish line with arms raised in victory, has been a symbol of Osaka since 1935 and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Japan.
Dotomburi is almost always filled with people taking photos, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the lively surroundings, so brace yourself for the crowds.
Ebisubashi-Suji Shopping Street
Nearby, the covered shopping street Ebisubashi-suji, stretches inland from the canal. This arcade is lined with shops, boutiques, and cafes, offering everything from fashion to souvenirs. It provides a slightly more relaxed contrast to the neon intensity of the canal-side streets. I said, "slightly." I definitely recommend a walk through Dotonbori, especially in the evening. It provides a sensory experience unlike anywhere else I visited in Japan.
Harukas
Harukas
My final recommendation for sightseeing in Osaka is Harukas. At just over 984 feet, it is the second tallest skyscraper in Japan. Completed in 2014, Abeno Harukas held the title of Japan's tallest building until the opening of Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower in Tokyo.
The highlight is the Harukas 300, on the upper floors of the tower, with its floor-to-ceiling glass panels that create an open, expansive feeling and remind you just how high off the ground you are.
From this height, the views stretch across the entire city, showing off its nearby dense neighborhoods and distant mountains.
On clear days, like the one when I visited, you can see as far as Osaka Bay.
The experience was especially memorable because I was able to see the sun set over the city, scattering blue light, creating silhouettes and casting dramatic shadows.
I headed back down on the state of the art elevator, and was once again reminded just how high I had traveled, ...
... and how quickly.
By the time I was back on the ground, the city lights of Osaka were aglow against a brilliant backdrop of the sunset's afterglow.
My visit to Osaka revealed a city that thrives on contrast and character. From historic landmarks to neon energy and from the sweeping views atop a skyscraper to the phenomenal food culture on the streets below, Osaka is a rich and layered experience. I hope you'll visit.
(After sightseeing, explore Osaka's famous food scene and don't leave without trying these local specialties. Visiting both Kyoto and Osaka? Here's what not to miss in Kyoto. For a complete guide to Japan, click here.)
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