6 Recommended Sightseeing Spots to Enjoy in Osaka City

Osaka City evokes a variety of sightseeing images, from culinary delights and city-style resorts to aquariums. Despite being a large metropolis, Osaka City is also rich in natural beauty, offering numerous tourist spots where visitors can enjoy the outdoors or find relaxation in historically scenic areas. The city’s charm lies in the fact that you can explore various locations and enjoy yourself from early morning until late at night.
Here, we introduce the top recommended sightseeing spots in Osaka City.

1. Experience Osaka’s Culinary Spirit at “Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho”

One of the greatest pleasures of sightseeing in Osaka City is undoubtedly the food, often referred to as “kuidaore” (eat until you drop). While Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi are classic destinations famous for the Kuidaore Doll, deciding where to eat in these crowded districts can be a challenge. That’s where “Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho,” located on the 2nd floor of Tempozan Marketplace, comes highly recommended.
Popular among tourists as a convenient stop during sightseeing, this spot welcomes you with a flashy, Osaka-style neon-lit gate. A retro Showa-era feel is expressed with items like an actual three-wheeled truck. You'll find a wide array of gourmet choices, from Osaka must-eats like okonomiyaki, doteyaki, and takoyaki, to Chinese and Korean cuisine. There are so many options, it might be hard to choose! With nostalgic elements like rotating barber poles, red public telephones, and tin signs reminiscent of movie sets, it’s also a perfect place for snapping fun commemorative photos.

2. More Than Just Viewing: “Kaiyukan” Aquarium

Osaka’s “Kaiyukan” is not just a major tourist attraction within the city—it’s one of the most popular aquariums in all of Kansai, and even famous nationwide. As one of the world’s largest aquariums, it consistently ranks among the global top for quality and experience, making it a must-visit for Osaka tourists.
The building spans 8 floors and houses 14 tanks filled with diverse marine ecosystems. Unique displays and a tunnel-like tank make you feel as if you’re walking under the sea. You begin the tour on the 8th floor and gradually descend via a spiral ramp while observing marine life, with the highlight being the Pacific Ocean tank where a majestic whale shark swims around you.
With over 60% of visitors being repeat guests, it’s best to go during less crowded times. For couples, the romantic nighttime aquarium experience is highly recommended. Since its opening in 1990, Kaiyukan has been loved by all—from women and families to school excursions and children’s groups from Kansai. It’s undoubtedly a staple of Osaka City tourism.

3. Japan’s Third Most Popular New Year’s Shrine Visit Spot: “Sumiyoshi Taisha”

Famous as the shrine that attracts the most New Year’s visitors in Osaka, Sumiyoshi Taisha is the head shrine of all Sumiyoshi Shrines across Japan. It frequently appears in literature and even NHK morning dramas, making it a shrine always bustling with visitors and worshippers.
Surrounded by deep greenery, its vast grounds make it a perfect place to relax during your sightseeing journey. The changing expressions of nature across the seasons make it worth visiting throughout the year. From rows of stone lanterns to the iconic arched “Sorihashi” bridge, there are countless scenic spots that will stop you in your tracks.
The main shrine, built in the ancient “Sumiyoshi-zukuri” architectural style, features four distinct shrine buildings and is deeply impressive. The majestic and dignified presence of the place naturally makes one stand tall. This is a peaceful and calming spot recommended for those exploring Osaka City.

4. A Deep and Unique Local Experience in Osaka: “Shinsekai”

If you want to experience Osaka’s down-to-earth local vibe and deep cultural flavor, head to Shinsekai. The symbol of Shinsekai is “Tsutenkaku,” a uniquely shaped tower that looks like a fusion of the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower—perfectly reflecting the unpretentious spirit of Osaka locals who embrace anything good regardless of appearance.
At the entrance, you’ll be greeted by the smiling “Billiken,” a golden god of good fortune born in New York. When visiting Tsutenkaku, be sure not to miss trying “kushikatsu” (fried skewers)—but remember, no double-dipping in the sauce! Of course, you should also sample Osaka’s iconic “konamon” (flour-based foods) like okonomiyaki.
You’ll overhear Kansai-dialect banter and observe the expressive Osaka aunties, immersing yourself in the local culture. With venues for manzai and rakugo performances, the area is also rich in entertainment, offering full cultural satisfaction.

5. A Shrine Too Impactful to Forget: “Namba Yasaka Shrine”

Even among the temples and shrines of Osaka City, “Namba Yasaka Shrine” stands out with its unusual appearance. Located in the heart of Namba, a shopping and entertainment district always bustling day and night, it’s a spot that surprises every first-time visitor.
The highlight is the “Shishiden” (Lion Hall). Rather than simply being home to a lion statue, the shrine building itself is shaped like a lion’s head! The fierce expression is so impactful that small children visiting for the first time have been known to cry. It is believed that the lion’s wide-open mouth swallows evil spirits and grants victory, attracting worshippers from all over Japan praying for success in competitions, academics, and job hunting.
If you visit during a festival, you may witness the rare sight of the lion’s eyes lighting up. Interestingly, the nose also functions as a speaker—how Osaka! It’s a great place to take a truly unique and memorable photo during your sightseeing.

6. Outdoor Fun in the Big City: “Maishima Sports Island Auto Campground”

“Maishima Sports Island” is a popular sightseeing destination in Osaka City with easy access. Known for its various sports and outdoor leisure activities, it attracts tourists looking for both relaxation and excitement. Its facilities include a baseball stadium and tennis courts that have hosted international matches—you may even spot a famous athlete in action.
The expansive campground, surrounded by nature, offers a variety of areas such as BBQ deck houses, picnic roofs, family gardens, and designated plots. Most zones are car-accessible, eliminating the hassle of hauling heavy gear.
There’s also a lighthouse-themed park with gentle streams and playgrounds for children, where families can relax and enjoy the scenery. Kids can also explore tide pools and play with crabs and fish by the shoreline. This kind of outdoor experience in such a big city is rare and highly recommended.

◎ Summary

Osaka City offers countless sightseeing spots that appeal to both children and adults, with so much to see and do that time will never seem enough. That’s why it helps to narrow down your destinations in advance for a smoother trip. Besides enjoying the urban cityscape, why not take the time to explore historical sites, natural settings, and deep, truly “Osaka” experiences that will make your visit unforgettable?