Osaka Travel Tips

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1 of 1 in Osaka Prefecture

Osaka (大阪, Ōsaka), Japan's second-largest metropolitan area after Tokyo, has been the Kansai region's economic hub for centuries. Historically known as Naniwa, it was Japan's first capital before the Nara Period, when the capital shifted with each new emperor.

In the 16th century, Toyotomi Hideyoshi built Osaka Castle, and the city was poised to become Japan's political center. However, after Hideyoshi's death, Tokugawa Ieyasu ended the Toyotomi lineage and moved the capital to Edo (now Tokyo), changing the course of history.

Getting around

In Osaka, the city is split into two main areas: Kita (North) around Osaka/Umeda Station and Minami (South) around Namba Station. Kita is a popular spot for shopping and business, while Minami is known for its entertainment and nightlife. Osaka has four major train stations: Osaka/Umeda, Namba, Tennoji, and Shin-Osaka. Keep in mind that bullet trains (shinkansen) only stop at Shin-Osaka Station, which is one stop north of Osaka Station. Around these stations, you’ll find several train lines run by different companies, along with subway connections that make it easy to move around the city.

Traveling around Osaka is simple thanks to many train and subway lines. JR West operates the handy Osaka Loop Line, similar to Tokyo’s Yamanote Line, and also connects you to places like Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Kansai Airport, and Universal Studios. The subway is one of the easiest ways to explore central Osaka with eight lines covering the city. For tourists, prepaid IC cards like Icoca are the easiest way to ride trains and buses — just tap and go. There's also the Kansai One Pass, made for visitors, which includes discounts at tourist spots. If you're planning to do a lot in one day, passes like the Osaka Amazing Pass or 1-Day Eco Card give unlimited rides and free or discounted entry to many attractions.