• Vibrant Dotonbori Canal and cityscape in Osaka, Japan during sunset.

Osaka Travel Guide

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12 - 7 ℃
TODAY
Osaka Prefecture is the birthplace of Kansai-style okonomiyaki and many classic Japanese street foods. Centered around Osaka (the prefectural capital), the clash of trade, traditions, and modern technologies contributes to the dynamic energy of this prefecture overlooking Osaka Bay.

Osaka Featured Food Experiences

Food Tours
Classes
Dining Experiences
Drinking Tours

Osaka Featured Restaurants

Hozenji Sushidokoro Nakatani 1
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OSAKA

Hozenji Sushidokoro Nakatani

Dinner: $274.32-281.35
Bestseller
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Yakitori Matsuoka 1
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OSAKA

Yakitori Matsuoka

Dinner: $91.44-98.47
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Matsumiya 5
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OSAKA

Matsumiya

Lunch: $168.81-239.15
Dinner: $168.81-239.15
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XEX WEST aburiyaki & sushi An 1
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OSAKA

XEX WEST aburiyaki & sushi An

Lunch: $56.27-70.34
Dinner: $126.61-140.68
New Restaurant
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Osaka Prefecture proudly stretches itself across the Kansai region, a modern metropolitan area with some of the best food in Japan. In the wake of Japan opening up to foreign trade, Osaka Prefecture operated as an essential trading hub, where the boisterous capital city of Osaka still overlooks the industrial Osaka Bay to the west. Once a port town but now the third largest city in Japan, the glittering city of Osaka is like Tokyo’s rowdy younger sibling, famous for its laidback nature and slower pace of life. Far less serious than their Tokyoite counterparts, the people of Osaka harbor a widespread love for comedy shows performed in the Kansai dialect, matched with a wild party culture that seems to never sleep. Osaka Prefecture is also the center of the Osaka-Kyoto-Kobe regional trifecta, collectively known as the Keihanshin metropolis area.

As the capital of Kansai, Osaka is proudly attributed with the creation of two classic Japanese food favorites: okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancake, “grilled as you like it”) and takoyaki ( molten balls of batter filled with octopus pieces and topped with savory-sweet sauce). Lovingly nicknamed the “Nation’s Kitchen,” Osaka has a loud reputation for high-quality food and so much of it. The region’s obsession with food fuels the local motto, kuidaore, meaning (and encouraging) “to eat yourself into ruin.” You’re spoilt for choice with street food on every corner (kushikatsu deep-fried skewers is a must-try) and izakayas offering all-you-can-eat dining; let alone the number of high-class restaurants serving fresh fugu (pufferfish) and premium wagyu beef. Osaka Castle lies in the heart of the city, while the colorful characters of Universal Studios live on the city’s outskirts, plus all kinds of business, shopping, and nightlife from Namba to Shinsekai, with pockets in-between and beyond.

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Photo of faq question markFrequently Asked Questions

What are the must-try foods in Osaka?

Osaka is famous for its street food, including takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Don't miss these local specialties when visiting the city.

Where can I find the best street food in Osaka?

Dotonbori and Kuromon Ichiba Market are two of the best places to explore Osaka's vibrant street food scene. Both areas offer a variety of stalls and restaurants featuring local delicacies.

Are there any unique food experiences in Osaka?

Yes! You can try making your own takoyaki or learn how to cook okonomiyaki in one byFood's Osaka cooking classes. These hands-on experiences are a fun way to immerse yourself in the city's food culture.

What’s the best way to get around Osaka?

The Osaka Metro and JR trains are the most convenient ways to travel within the city. Consider purchasing an Osaka Amazing Pass for unlimited rides and discounts on popular attractions.

What are the top attractions in Osaka?

Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, and the Umeda Sky Building are must-visit spots. For a cultural experience, visit the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine or explore the retro charm of Shinsekai.
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