The Osaka hit list

Your ultimate guide to the hub of Kansai – what’s good, what’s cool and what’s new in Osaka’s five most vibrant city districts.

By the Time Out Osaka editors

WHAT MAKES THE PERFECT holiday destination?

History, culture, arts and nature, plus sensational food and plentiful shopping, and most importantly, great value for money. These are the things that Osaka is widely known for and have made this modern Kansai region metropolis one of Japan’s most popular destinations. However, with the endless variety that the city has to offer, Osaka may seem overwhelming. Fret not, though, as we’ll break it down for you: Osaka city is made up of five main districts, each with a unique character and set of attractions. To help you make the most of your time in this great city, here’s an introduction to each of the areas and the best things to do while you’re there. We’ll also highlight some of the relatively newer additions to the city, which have sprung up during the pandemic, that you should not miss.