Top Rated Attractions in Osaka

Located in Osaka's Chuo ward, Dōtonbori draws a large amount of locals in search of local food and drink. The district is filled with dazzling lights, entertainment venues, nightclubs, shops and loads of restaurants. The area is also known for its mini bridges which cross the Dōtonbori canal, the billboard of local runner Glico Man, and one of Osaka's famous restaurants, Hariju. This restaurant only serves Japanese beef and has been around here since 1924. Colorfully lit LED building facades of the Dōtonbori capture the modern, vibrant essence of Osaka. With so much to offer, this thrumming neighborhood has lots of options for a happening evening in the city.

Riddled with an array of rides and attractions, Universal Studios Japan brings the world of movies to life. The theme park is the third in the Universal Studios' family and the first opened outside of the United States. Here, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter recreates J.K. Rowling's fictional world, inviting visitors to cast their own spells and sip on butter beer. Other timeless attractions include a ride though Jurassic Park, virtual roller-coasters and movie sets that offer a glimpse into what goes into the making of onscreen magic. Spread across its gargantuan expanse is a troupe of themed attractions inspired by the cities of New York, San Francisco and much-favored characters like Hello Kitty and Minions. Complete with a range of movie-themed restaurants, Universal Studios Japan appeals to adults and children alike.

The sprawling park surrounding Osaka Castle actually sees far more visitors than the actual castle itself. It is easy to understand why, given its beauty, especially during certain seasons. To the east, there is a grove of about 1,200 plum trees of varying varieties and colors. In November, you will not want to miss the chrysanthemum festival. The cherry trees in spring and other blooming shrubs and flowers are equally popular. Besides flora galore, there are jogging paths, a baseball field and other facilities such as a music hall.

Not far from the urban cacophony of downtown Kobe, the Nunobiki Falls are a stunning ensemble of cascades. A steep, winding path leads through the wilderness to the foot of these waterfalls, believed to be some of the most majestic in Japan. A collection of four separate falls, namely Ontaki, Mentaki, Tsutsumigadaki and Meotodaki, their plummeting water fills the air with an omnipresent roar that attests to their might. Surrounded by flourishing, verdant hills, these fervent cascades tumble down stark cliffs, into pristine, rocky pools. The falls may also be viewed from Shin-Kobe Ropeway, alongside a panoramic view of the city, trickling rivers and the aromatic Nunobiki Herb Garden. A source of inspiration for artists, poets and religious scholars alike, Nunobiki Falls are some of the most revered natural landmarks of Kobe to lie this close to the city.

Edion Arena Osaka is a multi-sports center. It comprises courts for playing volleyball, basketball, handball, tennis and other sports. Even judo, boxing and similar sports are practiced here. However, the arena is the most well-known for being the venue for professional sumo tournaments that are held annually. Apart from the sports facilities, the gymnasium also has several meeting halls and rooms for private events. For specific timings and other details, check website.

The zoo is located in Tennoji Park, southwest of the Shitenno-ji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. The park also has a circular garden called Keitakuen. The Tennoji Zoo, opened in 1915, houses 1,401 animals, including koalas, pandas, kiwis, reptiles, birds, mammals and a Tasmanian devil, which you cannot find in any other zoo in Japan. There is also a separate bird sanctuary, a reptile house that duplicates a natural environment and a hippopotamus. Pamphlets in English will help you find your way around this wonderful facility. Admission is free for junior high school students and younger than that.