Osaka Overview

Osaka is the capital city of Japan's Osaka prefecture and after Tokyo, has the second greatest population of any city in the country. The city is a focal point for Japanese industry and shipping and is also noted as the country's historical commercial capital. Within the Kansai region, Osaka is situated at the entrance to the Yodo River where it meets Osaka Bay. Visitors to the city will find a bustling metropolis that puts little stock in reminiscing in its past and much more significance on the importance of its present and future. more...

Osaka Activities

A small amusement park with a correspondingly small selection of attractions, but is still well worth a visit and good for the little ones with its more gentle selection of rides. A merry-go-round, ghost house, roller coaster and bungee ride are among the attractions on offer. A Ferris wheel offers some good views over the surrounding area. A food court is on hand for meals, snacks and beverages and remains open until the park closes its last ride. more...

Osaka Events and Festivals

Toka Ebisu Festival: held at the beginning of the month, the Toka Ebisu Festival is a time when residents of Osaka visit shrines to pray for good business in the year ahead. Visitors buy good luck charms and at midnight (on the 10th) geisha are carried through the city on palanquins (decorated platforms). more...

Osaka Sightseeing

The Dotombori Bridge over the artificial river in the Namba district is one of the city's most famous sights and one which appears on many a picture postcard. Once you've stood on the bridge and got some good photographs of the surrounding area, you can check out the many restaurants and shopping outlets. more...

Osaka Transport

Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the chief gateway to the city for international visitors and is situated approximately 50kms southwest of the city centre. It's a new airport and claims the title as Japan's second busiest. Connections are maintained with 72 cities in 32 countries, by more than 50 airlines. more...

Osaka Travel Tips

Citizens of the Republic of Ireland, UK, US, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Japan and may do so for stays of up to 90 days on nothing more than a passport with a remaining validity of at least six months. more...