The best things to do in Osaka

What is it? A food lover’s paradise – and the first-ever Time Out Market to open in Asia, celebrating the best of Osaka under one roof. Similar to the beloved Time Out Markets found all over Europe, Time Out Market Osaka is home to 17 food stalls serving delicious dishes from all over the world, including Italy, China, Korea, Japan and more.

Why go? I know I’m biased – but Time Out Market Osaka is truly epic. Think of it as the best food market you’ve ever been to, featuring dishes from first-class local chefs, the city’s top restaurants, bars and cultural experiences, based on Time Out’s editorial curation. And while you can get cracking ramen and popular Japanese street food there – like takoyaki (those battered, octopus-spiked balls) and okonomiyaki (a Japanese-style cabbage pancake) – if you're craving the food of your home country (or just really want a great burger), you can get that here, too.

Time Out tip: Time Out Market is card-only and does not accept cash. And I think it goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyway: come hungry.

Address: 〒530-0011 Grand Green Osaka South Building B1F, 5-54 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka

Opening hours: 11am–11pm, Monday to Sunday (last orders at 10.30pm)

Price: Various

What is it? A majestic and historic traditional Japanese castle surrounded by moats and lush gardens.

Why go? Osaka doesn’t have as many significant and historical buildings as Kyoto, so if you’re keen for a cultural hit, this will do the trick. Originally built in the late 1500s by Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a symbol of power and unity – and subsequently destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries – Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks today. The five-storey, multi-tiered building is architecturally striking, with gold-fringed edges and a granite stone foundation, and it towers over the city. It’s well worth a gawk.

Time Out tip: There are around 3,000 cherry trees dotted around Osaka Castle – for maximum flower frothing, plan your trip to Japan around late March to early April.

Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan

Opening hours: 9am–5pm

Price: The castle grounds, called Osaka Castle Park, are free to enter, but to explore the museum and observation deck inside, entry costs approximately $13 AUD.

What is it? A delicious, insightful and knowledgeable way to experience Osaka – also known as Japan's kitchen.

Why go? Food tours are one of the best ways to explore (and eat your way around) a new place. Forget the tourist traps – good tours with in-the-know guides will take you to locals-only spots serving traditional street food. Meals are peppered with insights and cultural context that enhance the experience and deepen your appreciation of the city’s culinary identity. Plus, Osaka is home to some of the best food in Japan – from chewy udon noodles to sweet-and-savoury okonomiyaki and coral-toned sashimi, you’ll eat until your jeans are about to pop open.

Time Out tip: Before you book, check reviews to find a reputable tour operator that suits your vibe. I went with Secret Food Tours and spent three glorious hours laughing, eating and learning with my guide, Akiko. Highly recommend.

Address: Osaka

Opening hours: Various

Price: Food tours aren’t dirt cheap – I paid around $200 AUD. But when you consider how many dishes you taste (and the sake), plus the enjoyment and wisdom you gain from the day, it’s absolutely worth it in my books.

What is it? A pumping, neon-lit district in Osaka – and a Japanese fever dream.

Why go? One of the most popular spots in Osaka, Dotonbori draws in thousands of locals and tourists for its high-octane energy and fun. My favourite time to visit was at night – when the streets dazzled with colourful lights and my senses went into overdrive. Also, I’d heard Osaka called the Venice of the East. When you see the boats and the shimmering canals, it makes total sense.

Time Out tip: Don’t have dinner right in Dotonbori – prices are higher and it’s more touristy. Walk just 10 minutes further and you’ll find something great.

Address: 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan

Opening hours: 24 hours

Price: Free

What is it? A bustling local market loved for its fresh seafood, street food and local produce.

Why go? I almost always visit a market when I’m in a new place – not just because eating is one of my favourite things to do, but because you get a real feel for the culture. And Kuromon Ichiba is one of my faves. From grilled scallops to fresh uni, Wagyu beef skewers, soft takoyaki and just-plucked-from-the-sea sashimi, the food options here are ace.

Time Out tip: Visit Kuromon Ichiba in the morning when the produce is at its freshest and the energy is high.

Address: 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan

Opening hours: 9am–6pm

Price: Various