OSAKA ATTRACTIONS

OSAKA AIRPORTS

Itami Airport is the common name for Osaka International Airport. Itami Airport is a domestic airport servicing Kansai. The name Itami Airport comes from its location.

Kansai International Airport is the main international airport of Japan's Kansai region, including the cities of Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.

OSAKA AMUSEMENT PARKS

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is a landmark in Osaka. The bright red HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is located on top of HEP FIVE shopping and entertainment complex in Umeda, central Osaka.

Osaka Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Osaka Aquarium features the display of two whale sharks.

Taiyo-no-hiroba (Osaka Castle Park Playground) is a very large childrens playground in the Osaka Castle Park.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel in Osaka's Tempozan Harbor Village region is a popular tourist attraction. Tempozan Ferris Wheel has a diameter of 100 metres.

Universal Studios Japan is one of three Universal Studios theme parks, this one being located in the Universal City Osaka district Osaka Japan. The park is similar to Universal Orlando Resort, containing many of the same rides.

OSAKA BRIDGES

Ebisubashi is a bridge across Dotonbori Canal on the Ebisubashi Shopping Arcade. Ebisubashi, which is nicknamed ‘Pick-up Bridge’ as it is a famous place for young guys to pick up girls, is located in Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka, which is famous for its restaurants.

Osakajo Shinbashi Bridge provides the link between Osaka Business Park and Osaka Castle Park.

Tempozan Bridge, also known as Tempozan Ohashi or Tempozan Great Bridge, is the large girder bridge that spans the mouth of the Ajigawa River close to Osaka Bay (Osaka). Tempozan Bridge needs to be high enough to allow large ships with masts up to 45m to pass underneath. The largest span of Tempozan Bridge is 152m long.

OSAKA TERMINALS

Tempozan Passenger Terminal is where you can catch a ferry across toUniversal Studios Japan. Tempozan Passenger Terminal is located in Tempozan, Osaka.

OSAKA CASTLES

Chihaya Castle was a hilltop style Japanese Castle built on Mt. Kongo (Osaka) in 1332. Chihaya Castle was constructed substantially of earthworks and wooden structures, however today you can still see some stoneworks such as stairs.

Fukui Castle was a hilltop style Japanese Castle located in Ibaraki Osaka Prefecture. Fukui Castle was burnt to the ground in 1657. Today only some earthworks remain. This Fukui Castle is not the same as the Fukui Castle in Fukui Prefecture.

Ikeda Castle, located in Ikeda Osaka, is a Japanese Castle, which was built in 1334 and destroyed around 1568 after a loss in a battle. In 2000 a modern reconstruction of the donjon (tower) of Ikeda Castle was completed.

Kishiwada Castle (also known as Chikiri Castle), located in Kashiwa Southern Osaka, is a flatland style Japanese Castle, which was built by order of Hideaway Koide in 1597, on the site of a fort constructed by Tokay Wada in 1334. Control of Kishiwada Castle transferred to Takatsuki and then Okabe Mino 1640. The Okabe clan maintained control of Kishiwada Castle until the Meiji Restoration. The donjon (tower) was destroyed by lightning 1827. A modern reconstruction of the donjon including a museum with exhibition rooms for artefacts and watch tower was completed in 1954.

Osaka Castle is a hill top style Japanese Castle and Osaka's most famous landmark. While the main donjon (tower) is modern reconstruction, Osaka Castle features thirteen structures which are designated Important Cultural Properties. Osaka Castle also features an observation deck and museum.

OSAKA EMBASSY and CONSULATES

USA Consulate in Osaka.

OSAKA GARDENS and PARKS

Daisen Park is located in Sakai Southern Osaka, between the Daisenryo Kofun and the Kamiishizu Misanzai Kofun. Daisen Park covers 35 ha and features a traditional Japanese gardens, 400 cherry blossom trees, Hana-to-mizu-no-hiroba (flower and water park) and the Sakai City Museum.

Osaka Expo Park was the site of the Osaka '70 International Expo. Osaka Expo Park is also popular in cherry blossom season and is considered one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots.

Forest Park - Osaka Castle Park is part of the greater Osaka Castle Park.

Hamadera Park, located in Southern Osaka is famous for its beautiful pine trees with more than 5000 trees in the park. Hamadera Park features entertainment facilities, including a swimming pool with a giant slide and a rose garden.

Ikeda Castle Remains Park, located in Osaka, was redeveloped in 2000 with a beautiful Japanese garden and the rebuilt Ikeda Castle keep in one corner.

Keitakuen Garden is a traditional Japanese garden located within Tennoji Park, in southern Osaka. Japanese garden features a pond and tea house.

Kema Sakuranomiya Park is located on the river bank and incorporates the Osaka Mint building which is famous area for viewing cherry blossom.

Kurondo-enchi (Kurondo Picnic Site), located in Eastern Osaka features many hiking courses around Lake Kurondo surrounded by beautiful flora.

Meiji-no-mori Mino Quasi- national Park is a 963 ha natural beauty spreading over lower mountains around 100 to 600 meter high in Mino-shi in Mino, north of Osaka. Meiji-no-mori Mino Quasi-national Parkk forms a habitat for 980 species of plants and over 3,000 species of insects.

Nagai Botanical Garden, located in the south east corner of Nagai Park in Nagai Osaka, features 11 special gardens and a large 580sqm flower bed. Nagai Botanical Garden has a total size of 24 hectares and displays over 1,000 species of trees.

Nakanoshima Park is a quite green oasis in Nakanoshima, right in the heart of busy Osaka. Nakanoshima Park features 4000 trees, river frontage and a rose garden.

Nishikinohama Beach Park - ‘Nishiki’ means two colors, which represents white sand and green pine groves in this park. Nishikinohama Beach Park is located in Southern Osaka.

Nishinomaru Garden is Osaka's most popular location for cherry blossom viewing. Nishinomaru Garden features around 600 cherry trees and is located within Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka Castle Park is a large 106.7 hectare park which includes many facilities, gardens and attractions including Osaka Castle and its cherry blossom which are considered one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots.

Osaka Castle Park - Japanese Garden is a traditional Japanese garden, located within the Inner Moat and very close to the Osaka Castle donjon (tower).

Osaka Castle Park - Nioi-no-mori is the "Fragrant Forest" within the Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka Castle Park - Omoide-no-mori (Grove of Remembrance) also know as Peach Grove is a major feature when in blossom or in Autumn when the leaves turn red. Omoide-no-mori (Grove of Remembrance) is located within Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka Castle Park - Plum Grove is a major feature when in blossom or in Autumn when the leaves turn red. Plum Grove is located within Osaka Castle Park.

Rose Garden located within Nakanoshima Park in Nakanoshima central Osaka.

Sakuya Konohana Kan (The Great Conservatory), located in Tsurumi Osaka, is a large greenhouse which features 15,000 plants from 2,600 species from around the world. Sakuya Konohana Kan's climate control system allows plants to bloom all year round including those from tropical or high altitude climates. Open 10am to 5pm. Closed Mondays. Entry 500 Yen.

Satsukiyama Park, located in Ikeda Osaka, features Satsuki azalea a traditional expression of May in Japanese. Also breath-taking viewing during its cherry blossom season.

Satsukiyama Zoo, located in Ikeda Osaka, is a unique zoo in Japan as it has a collection of Australian animals including wombats, wallabies and sheep, from Ikeda's sister city Launceston, Tasmania, on top of Japanese native animals such as monkeys and deer.

Senjima Park, located in Osho Ward Osaka, is an 112,034 sqm open space public park which was established in 1970. Senjima Park features azaleas and cherry blossom trees (flower in early April). Senjima Park also has five hills created from the material from the construction of the subway. The highest hill is 35m and named Mt Showa.

Shirokita Park is located next to the Yodogawa River in Osaka. Shirokita Park covers 9.5 hectares and features many seasonal flowers including cherry blossom (April), chrysanthemum (November) and lilies (May and June). The Lily Garden features around 13,000 plants from three verities; Edo, Ise and Higo.

Tennoji Park Osaka features many scenes with statues made with wire and covered with flowers. Tennoji Park also includes the traditional Japanese garden Keitakuen, Osaka Municipal Museum of Art, Tennoji Zoo and Chausuyama Tomb.

Tennoji Zoological Gardens houses some 1,500 animals of 300 different species, including koalas, lesser pandas, elephants, and the only kiwi bird in Japan. Tennoji Zoological Gardens is located in Tennoji, Osaka.

Yahataya Park is located in Minato Osaka. Yahataya Park was established in 1923 as the city athletic field, later it was used as a venue for an international trade fair. Today Yahataya Park is home to the Osaka Municipal Central Gymnasium and the Osaka Pool which includes an ice rink.

OSAKA LANDMARKS

Applause Tower, also known as Chayamachi Applause and the Hankyu Chayamachi Building, is a distinctive Skyscraper in Umeda Osaka.

ATC (Asia-Pacific Trade Center) is a world-class international trade complex filled with shops and extensive business information. The ATC is located in Sakishima district which is part of Osaka Bay Area.

Bank of Japan in Nakanoshima Osaka, is a branch office of the Bank of Japan which is the central bank of Japan.

Castle Tower Building is located in the OBP (Osaka Business Park). Osaka Business Park is a district of Osaka located close to Osaka Castle with many skyscrapers.

Chausuyama Kofun (Burial Mound) is in Tennoji Park, Osaka.

The Crystal Tower Building is a 156 metre high skyscraper in Osaka Business Park (OBP). The Crystal Tower Building is said to be one of the most beautiful skyscrapers in Osaka.

Daisenryo Kofun (Emperor Nintoku’s tomb), located in Southern Osaka, was built in 5th century, Emperor Nintoku’s tomb is the largest keyhole-shaped tome in Japan.

Dotombori Canal is a famous canal which is lined with restaurants, cafes and shops in Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka, which is famous for its restaurants.

Dotonbori Street is a very colorful, popular and famous street in Dotonbori lined with restaurants and cafes. Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka.

Dowa Kasai Phoenix Tower also known as the Nissay Dowa General Insurance HQ Osaka is a Skyscraper in Umeda Osaka.

Former Osaka City Museum is located within the inner moat of Osaka Castle. The Former Osaka City Museum building is not currently in use.

The Former Osaka Guest House is located within Osaka Castle Park.

Fountain Osaka Castle Park is the main fountain in Osaka Castle Park.

Fujitsu Kansai System Laboratory is located in the Osaka Business Park.

The huge neon sign of Glico Sign, the symbol of Glico Candy. Glico Man is located in Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka, which is famous for its restaurants.

Hosho-an Hermitage is located within the greater area of the Osaka Castle Park and specifically on the north eastern edge of Nishinomaru Garden.

Hozenji Yokocho is a narrow, stone-paved lane with a atmosphere of old days in Osaka. Hozenji Yokocho is lined on both sides with small food shops and cafes, some of them are quite famous.

Japan Mint Osaka is the Head Office for the Japan Mint which has branches in Tokyo and Hiroshima. Japan Mint Osaka was opened in 1871 and began producing coins. Today you can take a tour of the Japan Mint Osaka and there is also a museum. Japan Mint Osaka also famous for its cherry blossom being considered one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots.

The KDDI Osaka Building is a Skyscraper located in the OBP (Osaka Business Park).

Kishiwada Danjiri Hall, located in Southern Osaka exhibits some of the floats from previous Kishiwada Danjiri Festivals (The Fighting Festival). Kishiwada Danjiri Hall also has multimedia presentations of previous festivals.

The Matsushita IMP Building is a Skyscraper located in the OBP (Osaka Business Park).

Osaka City Hall is the Osaka City administration building or "Osaka City Town Hall". Osaka City Hall is located in Nakanoshima area of central Osaka.

Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library, located in Nakanoshima area of central Osaka, was built in 1904 and the left and right wings were added later. Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library is designated as Japanese important cultural properties.

Osaka Prefectural Police Office is the headquarters for the Osaka Prefectural Police force. The Osaka Prefectural Police Office features a very distinctive modern architecture. Osaka Prefectural Police Office is located across the moat and road from Osaka Castle in Chuo Ward Osaka.

Osaka Prefecture Government Office is where the elected officials of the Osaka Prefectural Government meet. Osaka Prefecture Government Office is located across the moat and road from Osaka Castle in Chuo Ward Osaka.

Sumitomo Life Insurance Nakanoshima Building also known as Sumitomo Seimei Nakanoshima Building, is a 29 story Skyscraper designed by Nikken Sekkei Ltd and located in Nakanoshima Osaka.

Tsutenkaku Tower, located in Shinsekai, is a well known Osaka attraction with an observation deck. Tsutenkaku Tower is styled after the Eiffel Tower.

Umeda Dai-ichi Seimei Building is a Skyscraper located in Umeda Osaka.

Umeda Sky Building is the seventh-tallest building in Osaka, Japan, and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Umeda Sky Building consists of two 40- story towers that connect at their two uppermost stories, with bridges and an escalator crossing the wide atrium-like space in the center. The building features a rooftop observatory.

WTC Cosmo Tower, located in Sakishima Osaka, is a trade information center linked with 282 cities around the globe. With 3 stories underground and 55 stories above ground, the WTC Cosmo Tower has a height of 256 meters, which is the highest tower in western Japan.

YTV (Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation) Building is located in the Osaka Business Park.

OSAKA MOUNTAINS

Mt Ikoma is highest mountain in the Ikoma Mountain range at 642m. Mt Ikoma is located on the border of Nara and Osaka Prefectures.

Mt. Kongo, located in Southern Osaka, is the highest mountain in Osaka Prefecture (altitude: 1,125 meters), near the top are Katsuragi Shrine and Temporinji Temple.

OSAKA MUSEUMS and ART GALLERIES

Chihaya Nature and Astronomy Museum is located on Mt. Kongo, in Southern Osaka.

Entrepreneurial Museum of Challenge and Innovation (EMCI), located in Chuo Osaka, presents the history and achievements of 107

Itsuo Art Museum has a collection by Ichizo Kobayashi (1873-1957), with about 5,000 pieces in total, among them 15 pieces are designated as Important Cultural Properties and 19 pieces as Cultural Properties. Itsuo Art Museum is located in Ikeda Osaka.

Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, located in Namba, is the only museum in the world that features a permanent exhibition of Kamigata Ukiyoe. In Kamigata (Osaka's name during the Edo period), many Ukiyoe (colored woodblock prints) were created featuring Kabuki actors. Impressive expressions of actors' eyes and faces, expressing various human emotions are vividly depicted in these Ukiyoe. The Museum exhibits some 30 items.

Mino Insect Museum, located in Mino Osaka, exhibits over 6,000 of insects with some live species that visitors can touch and feel.

Modern Transport Museum Osaka displays an extensive range of trains along with a few early cars and planes, but prize display item is the very first Shinkansen. The trains on display include steam, diesel, electric and a prototype magnetic levitation train. The Modern Transport Museum Osaka has many interactive displays including simplified driver controls of a variety of engines, which control very large model train sets. The Modern Transport Museum Osaka is located next to the Bentencho Station Osaka on the Osaka Loop Line.

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum is the site of development of the world's first instant noodle. The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, located in Ikeda Osaka, includes interactive displays where you can make your own instant noodles.

Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka, located in Nakanoshima Osaka, has the world's best collection of oriental ceramics including two National Treasures and 13 important cultural properties.

Namban Bunkakan Museum, located Umeda Osaka, features the artworks brought to Japan by the Portuguese and Spanish merchants and missionaries during 1543-1693. This culture is refered to as "Namban Bunka". The museum opens only twice a year: May 1-31 & Nov 1-30 (close on Mondays) Open Hours: 10am – 4pm Admission: 800 yen

National Museum of Art Osaka, located in Nakanoshima Osaka, is a uniquely designed underground museum opened in 1977 housing Japanese and foreign contemporary art. National Museum of Art Osaka is located next to the Osaka Science Museum.

Osaka Human Rights Museum, also known as Liberty Osaka, is located in Naniwanishi Osaka. The purpose of the Osaka Human Rights Museum is to exhibit the importance of human rights, along with past and present discrimination against groups of people.

Osaka International Peace Centre is a museum which focuses on the destruction of Osaka during World War II. There are also exihibits of Japan's roll in World War II. Osaka International Peace Centre is located within Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka Maritime Museum is distinctive and award winning building housing a collection which shows Osaka's strong connection with the sea and maritime activities.

Osaka Municipal Museum of Art, located in Tennoji Park, in the building was the former residence of the Sumitomo family. Osaka Municipal Museum of Art displays paintings and ceramics including some Important Cultural Properties.

Osaka Museum of History is located in a distinctive modern building opposite Osaka Castle Park. The Osaka Museum of History covers the 1,400 year history of Osaka through life-size reconstructions, scale models, photographs and movies.

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, located in Tenjinbashi Osaka, features a life sized recreation of Osaka during the late Edo period, plus pictures and models showing the housing and lifestyle during the later periods. Closed Tuesdays. Entry 600 Yen.

Osaka Museum of Natural History, located in Nagai Osaka, features 10,000 exhibits including a life sized replica of a Naumann's elephant (extinct elephant that used to live in Japan) and dinasaur displays plus the types of foods eating by humans in the past.

Osaka Science Museum, located in Nakanoshima Osaka, houses a collection of historic science exhibitions. The Osaka Science Museum also houses the planetarium. The Osaka Science Museum is located next to the National Museum of Art Osaka.

Panasonic Konosuke Matsushita Museum, located in Eastern Osaka celebrates the history of the founder, Konosuke Matsushita, and Panasonic (formally called Matsushita Electric).

Sakai City Museum is located Daisen Park in Sakai Southern Osaka. Sakai City Museum covers the distinctive history of Sakai city.

Sakai HAMONO Museum, located in Sakai Southern Osaka, is dedicated to knives produced in the region. Sakai is famous for its knives. About 90% of kitchen knives used in Japan are from Sakai.

Suntory Museum in Tempozan Osaka is a cultural complex featuring a Gallery and an IMAX® Theater. Suntory Museum has a distinct award winning architectural design.

OSAKA ONSEN

Spa World is one of the largest spa leisure complexes in the world offering 16 different baths. Spa World is located in Tennoji Osaka.

OSAKA RESTAURANTS

551 Horai, located in Namba Osaka, is a famous Gyoza (Fried dumpling).

Kani Doraku Crab Restaurant is world famous for the six and a half meter moving crab on the front of the restaurant. Kani Doraku Crab Restaurant is located in Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka, which is famous for its restaurants.

Zuboraya is a famous Fugu or Puffer Fish Restaurant located in Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka, which is famous for its restaurants.

OSAKA SHOPPING

Bic Camera is chain of camera and home electronics stores in Japan. Bic Camera Namba is located in Namba.

Big Step is a shopping centre located in Namba Osaka. Big Step features fashion stores, restaurants and a cinema.

Daimaru is a chain of department stores. Daimaru Department Store Shinsaibashi is located in Shinsaibashi, central Osaka.

Daimaru is a chain of department stores. This one is located in Umeda, central Osaka.

Don Quijote is a famous discount department store which has outstanding display on the front of the building. Don Quijote Dotombori is located in Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka, which is famous for its restaurants.

With a history of 380 years, Ebisubashi-suji Shopping Arcade was already an established shopping area in the Edo Period. Shops of all kinds and for all ages line the street, a roofed arcade 600 meters long. There are traditional kimono tailors, restaurants, fast food shops, jewellers, and boutiques featuring the latest fashions.

E-ma is a shopping centre (mall) located in Umeda, central Osaka.

EST Umeda is a shopping centre (mall) located in Umeda, central Osaka.

Hankyu Department Store Umeda is located in Umeda, central Osaka.

The Hankyu Grand Building is a Skyscraper in central Osaka. The Hankyu Grand Building was built in 1979, has 32 floors and is 127m high.

Hankyu Sambangai Shopping Centre is located above the Hankyu Umeda Station in Umeda central Osaka.

Hanshin Department Store is a major department store which is part of the Hanshin Umeda Station complex in (Umeda) central Osaka.

HEP FIVE is a landmark in Osaka. HEP FIVE is a large shopping and entertainment complex with a large ferris wheel mounted on the roof (HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel).

HEP NAVIO is a youth focused shopping centre (mall) located next to the HEP FIVE building which is a landmark in Osaka. HEP FIVE is a large shopping and entertainment complex with a large ferris wheel mounted on the roof (HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel).

HERBIS Plaza ENT is a shopping centre (mall) located in Umeda, central Osaka. HERBIS Plaza ENT contains some of the top international fashion brands including BVLGARI, Gucci, Coach, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany.

HERBIS Plaza WEST is a shopping centre (mall) located in Umeda, central Osaka.

Jan-Jan Yokocho, which runs along one side of Shinsekai, is dining and shopping street which contains Izakaya (Japanese-style pubs) and Kushikatsu restaurants (meat, fish and vegetables breaded and deep fried on sticks).

Joshin Gundams is a large home electronics and white goods store.

Kintetsu Department Store located in Abeno Osaka.

LOFT is a chain of shopping centres (mall). LoFT Shinsaibashi is located in Shinsaibashi Osaka.

LOFT is a chain of shopping centres (mall). LoFT Umeda is located in Umeda, central Osaka.

Marui Namba is a department store in Namba central Osaka.

Namba City is a shopping complex with 300 shops of clothing, brand items, restaurants and cafés, adjoined to both subway and Nankai Namba Station in Namba central Osaka.

Namba NanNan, located in Namba, was the first underground shopping centre (mall) in Osaka.

Namba Walk is an underground shopping centre (mall) in Namba central Osaka.

Nike Store - Osaka is the main Nike Store in Osaka.

NU Chayamachi is a shopping centre (mall) located inUmeda, central Osaka.

OPA Shinsaibashi is an eleven story high shopping centre filled with fashion and sporting stores, plus restaurants on the top three floors. OPA Shinsaibashi is located in Shinsaibashi, one of Osaka's main shopping area.

PARCO is a chain of department stores. PARCO Shinsaibashi is located in Shinsaibashi, one of Osaka's main shopping area.

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade is a long covered shopping street in Shinsaibashi Osaka.

Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street is the longest shopping street in Japan with shops all a long 2.6km section of the street. Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street is where you can experience Japanese downtown shopping style.

Yodobashi Camera is a chain of large camera stores that also sell an extensive range of home eletronics and computers. Yodobashi Umeda is located in Umeda central Osaka.

OSAKA SHRINES and TEMPLES

Hozenji Temple is a very small temple that was established in 1637. Hozenji Temple is located in busy Dotonbori, a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka, which is famous for its restaurants.

Ishikiri Shrine, located in Eastern Osaka, was established in 658, (normally called Ishikiri Shrine) is well known to Osaka people as ‘Ishikiri-san' or ‘denbo no kamisan (god of curing lumps)’.

Jigenji Temple, also known as Nozaki Kannon, is one of the most famous temples in Japanese history with reference made to in many novels, songs and plays. Gyoki (668-749), the high priest at that time, made a wooden sculpture of the Goddess of Mercy and enshrined it. This is the origin of the temple. Jigenji Temple is located in Eastern Osaka.

Jokoji Temple, located in Eastern Osaka, was established in 745, it is the birth place of ‘Kawachi-ondo’, the most famous bon odori (a traditional Japanese dance) song.

Katsuoji Temple is a Buddhist temple in Mino city north of Osaka. Supreme rulers in various periods in history had worshipped in Katsuoji Temple to pray for fortune in war and it is still known as a “temple of good luck at games".

Katsuragi Shrine is located near the top of Osaka's highest mountain, Mt Kongo. Katsuragi Shrine was established in 665AD by En-no-gyoja, who also established the nearby Temporinji Temple.

Kishiki Shrine, located in Southern Osaka, is famous for Kishiwada Danjiri Festival ‘The Fighting Festival’ held in mid September, which involves up to 1,000 people pulling Danjiri (floats) up the steep slopes of the path to Kishiwada Castle at great speed. Kishiki Shrine was established in 1361.

Kureha Shrine, located in Ikeda Osaka, was originally built in 77 then rebuilt in 1969. It enshrines Emperor Nintoku and Kurehatorinohime, who brought weaving skills from China.

Kyuanji Temple is famous for its legacy of buildings from its long history and the beautiful garden where people can enjoy various flower and trees throughout the year. Especially, autumn is the most spectacular with its Momiji (Japanese maple). Kyuanji Temple is located in Ikeda, Osaka.

Nanshuji Temple, located in Southern Osaka, was established in 1557 and is famous for Sen-no-Rikyu, the most famous tea master in Japanese history. Nanshuji Temple features beautiful Karesansui style Japanese garden. The San-mon (the main gate), and Kara-mon (the gate in Chinese style) are both designated Important Cultural Properties.

Nose Myokensan Temple is a Buddhist temple from the Nichiren sect temple which attracts many visitors on a new year’s. Nose Myokensan Temple is located on top of the beautiful Mt Myoken in Nose Osaka, where there are many large beech trees including some with a circumference of 2 meters.

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine hosts Osaka's biggest festival Tenjin Matsuri, which is one of the greatest boat festivals in the world. This has made Osaka Tenmangu Shrine the most famous of the Tenjin shrines in Japan. Osaka Tenmangu Shrine was established in 949AD under order of Emperor Murakami to enshrine the Sugawara no Michizane. The current buildings of Osaka Tenmangu Shrine date back to 1845, with the previous buildings being destroyed by fire.

Ryuanji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Mino, which was established by the En-no-gyoja in 658AD after he was enlightened through his training under the Mino Waterfall.

Shitennoji Temple was established in 593AD, making it the first Buddhist temple in Japan. Shitennoji Temple is located in Tennoji Osaka.

Sumiyoshitaisha Shrine is the most famous shrine in Osaka, and the headquarter of some 2000 Sumiyoshi shrines throughout Japan. Sumiyoshitaisha Shrine is located in Tennoji Osaka.

Taikoji Temple is a Buddhist temple located on Mt Satsuki in Ikeda Osaka. Taikoji Temple was built in 1395 by the order of Mitsumasa Ikeda, the lord of Ikeda Castle at the time.

Tsuyunoten Shrine (Ohatsu Tenjin) is a tranquil oasis among the noise of busy Umeda in central Osaka. Tsuyunoten Shrine was established in the 6th century.

OSAKA SPORTING VENUES

Japanese Archery Kyudo Field is located in the Osaka Castle Park, Osaka.

Nagai Stadium is an athletic and football stadium which was using the 1964 Summer Olympics and 2002 FIFA World Cup. It is the home ground for Cerezo Osaka Club (J League).

Osaka Castle Park Baseball Ground is located in Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka Dome is a baseball stadium in Nishi-ku Osaka.

Osaka Municipal Central Gymnasium is an indoor sporting arena with a seating capacity of 8,200. Osaka Municipal Central Gymnasium is the home venue for Osaka Evessa basketball team.

Osaka Pool is located in Yahataya Park in Minato Osaka. Osaka Pool also features an ice rink.

Osaka Shudokan is a martial arts training facility located in Osaka Castle Park.

OSAKA THEATRES and CONCERT HALLS

Izumi Hall, located in Osaka Business Park, is a musical performance hall which is mainly designed for classical chamber music. Izumi Hall, completed in 1990, has an interior modeled on Grosser Musikvereinssaal in Vienna.

Joruri Theatre, located in Nose is a Japanese traditional puppet theatre, which is now very rare to experience in Japan.

Since opened in 1984, National Bunraku Theatre has been taking a significant role to preserve, develop and pass on the traditional art forms of the Kamigata (Osaka-Kyoto), especially the art of Ningyo Joruri Bunraku (puppet drama). National Bunraku Theatre> is located in Namba central Osaka.

Osaka Castle Band Shell is a performance venue in Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka City Central Public Hall, located in Nakanoshima area of central Osaka, is a well known symbol of the area. Osaka City Central Public Hall features beautiful stained glass windows, crystal chandeliers and dramatic ceiling painting.

Osaka-jo Hall (also referred to as Osaka Castle Hall) is a multipurpose indoor arena which is used for rock and pop concerts along with martial arts championships. Osaka-jo Hall is located within Osaka Castle Park.

Theatre BRAVA! (Ion Cosmetics Theatre BRAVA!) is performing arts venue in the OBP (Osaka Business Park) region of Osaka. Theatre BRAVA! Holds a varity of events including theatre, dance shows and concerts.

Umeda Arts Theatre is a venue for classical music, opera, ballet and musicals located in Umeda Osaka.

Umeda Kagetsu Theatre is a comedy theatre in Umeda Osaka.

OSAKA MAIN CITIES and TOWNS

Amerikamura district located in central Osaka is popular with Japanese youth. Amerikamura features many fashion shops and bars.

Den Den Town is Osaka's Akihabara. This area was once popular for its wide variety of consumer electronics stores. These days, Den Den Town has become known as a haven for anime and otaku culture. Tora no Ana and, Joshin Gundams are popular among them. There are many maid cafes and cosplay cafes as well. Den Den Town is located in Namba.

Ikeda is one of the popular suburbs in Osaka. Ikeda has many things to offer from its beautiful Satsukiyama (Mt Satsuki), many significant temples and shrines in plus the birthplace of instant noodle.

Izumisano is a city located in Osaka, Japan. Izumisano is home to the offshore Kansai International Airport, and to the 256m/840ft Rinku Gate Tower Building, the second tallest building in Japan.

Kaizuka (Kaidzuka) is a city located in Osaka, Japan on Osaka Bay, southwest of the prefectural capital of Osaka.

Kishiwada is a city located in the South of Osaka Prefecture, Japan. Kishiwada is famous for its Kishiwada Castle.

Mino is a popular day trip destination from Osaka. Mino is 15Km north of central Osaka. It features museums, temples and park lands.

Namba is an entertainment district of central Osaka, famous for its giant crab and other restaurants. Namba includes Dotonbori where many of the most famous images of Osaka come from including the Glico Man and the Giant Crab which are located around the Dotonbori canal.

Osaka is located in Kansai region on the main island of Honshu. Osaka is Japan's second largest city and is a major industrial, port and economic centre. Osaka's top attractions include Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building.

Osaka Bay Area is a recently redeveloped area which includes many attractions: Universal Studios Japan, Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Osaka Aquarium. Included in the Osaka Bay Area is the districts of Tempozan, Sakishima and Universal City.

Osaka Business Park is a Skyscraper district in Osaka close to Osaka Castle.

Sakai is a city located in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. It has been one of the largest and most important seaports of Japan since the Medieval era. Sakai is known for its keyhole-shaped burial mounds, or kofun, which date from the 5th century. The largest of these, Daisen Kofun, is believed to be the grave of the Emperor Nintoku and is the largest grave in the world by volume.

Sennan is a city located in Osaka, Japan.

Shinsaibashi is a district in the Chuo-ku ward of Osaka, and is Osaka's main shopping area.

Shinsekai is a colorful district of Osaka with fugu and kushi-katsu restaurants. The main attraction in Shinsekai is theTsutenkaku Tower. Shinsekai is located in Tennoji District of Osaka.

Tempozan is a recently redeveloped area in the Osaka Bay Area. Tempozan has many attractions including the Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Osaka Aquarium.

Umeda is a commercial and business district in central Osaka. Umeda is best known as the city's main northern railway terminus (Osaka Station, Umeda Station), but also contains many skyscrapers including the Umeda Sky Building.

Universal City Osaka is a redeveloped area in the Osaka Bay Area which features Universal Studios Japan.

OSAKA TRAIN STATIONS

Hankyu Umeda Station is one of three train stations in Umeda each operated by different rail companies. Hankyu Umeda Station is located below the Hankyu Sambangai Shopping Center.

Hanshin Umeda Station is located directly below the Hanshin Department Store. Hanshin Umeda Station is one of three train stations in Umeda each operated by different rail companies.

Kansai Airport Station is the train station at Kansai International Airport. It provides train services to Osaka and Kyoto.

Minoo Station is the train station servicing Mino is a popular day trip destination from Osaka.

Morinomiya Station - JR is one of the stations close to Osaka Castle Park.

Morinomiya Station - Subway is one of the stations close to Osaka Castle Park.

Osaka Business Park Station (subway) is located within the Osaka Business Park which is a district of Osaka located close to Osaka Castle with many skyscrapers.

Osaka Castle Station is one of the closest train stations to Osaka Castle.

Osaka Station is a station on the West Japan Railway Company (JR West) located in the Umeda district in Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan. It is the city's main rail terminal in the north of the city. Osaka Station is not serviced by the Shinkansen. The Shinkansen terminal for Osaka is Shin-Osaka Station.

Shin-Osaka Station is the only station in Osaka where the Shinkansen stops. Shin-Osaka Station has interconnects to other parts of Osaka.

Universal City Station is the closest train station to Universal Studios Japan.

OSAKA LAKES and BAYS

Mino Waterfall, located in Mino Osaka, is one of the best 100 waterfalls in Japan. This magnificent waterfall is about 33 meter high.