Osaka Instagrammable Must Visit Places
Formerly known as Naniwa, Osaka has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai Region for centuries. Before the Nara Period, when the capital changed with each new emperor, Naniwa was Japan's first capital city. In the 16th century, Toyotomi Hideyoshi chose Osaka for his castle, and the city might have become Japan's political capital if Tokugawa Ieyasu had not ended the Toyotomi lineage after Hideyoshi's death and established his government in distant Edo (Tokyo).
Now Osaka rivals Tokyo and Kyoto in popularity. As Japan's second-largest city, this Kansai metropolis offers everything from delicious food and shopping to theme parks and historical sites. This article will help you with the information you need to plan your visit to Osaka without confusion about which places to explore. Plus, these places are the best for your Instagram posts!
1. Discover Osaka’s Iconic District at Dotonbori
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When you first think of Osaka, Dotonbori Street might not come to mind. However, when you search for Dotonbori Street on Google, the iconic Glico Running Man is likely the first thing you remember. The Glico Man is one of the most famous sights in Osaka. This big, brightly lit sign has been glowing above the Dotonbori Canal in Osaka's main shopping and entertainment area for more than 80 years.
The story behind why the running man was chosen as Glico's mascot comes from the company's first product, a caramel candy. Company founder Ri-ichi Ezaki created the snack in 1922 by adding glycogen from oysters to provide energy. It was believed that each candy could give enough energy to run 300 meters, so a running man has been used as the company's mascot and logo ever since.
Fee : Of course it's free to walk along the road :)
2. Wonder Through the Retro Charm of Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku
Source : https://osaka-info.jp/
Tsutenkaku Tower is a key symbol of Shinsekai, one of Osaka's busiest districts. Standing at 103 meters tall, it offers great views of the city from its observation deck. On the 5th floor, you'll find Biliken-san, the God of Happiness. It's said that rubbing the soles of his feet can bring good luck.
The Light Observation Deck on the 4th floor also provides excellent views. If you're planning a special event, Tenbo Paradise at the top of the tower can be rented for occasions like wedding proposals. Shinsekai, which means "new world," gives a taste of old Osaka, and Tsutenkaku Tower is its most famous landmark. Although the 100-meter tower might not seem very tall today, it stands as a symbol of progress and innovation. Start your visit at the top for the best views, then head to the third floor to see exhibits about the area's lively history.
Fee : Free :)
3. Feel A Majestic Journey of Osaka's Iconic Landmark at Osaka Castle
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Osaka Castle is the most famous landmark in the city. Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583 to unify Japan, it covers a large area of 1.056 square kilometers. Inside the castle grounds, you can see important historical buildings like the Tenshukaku tower, Kinzo Storehouse, Enshogura Gunpowder Magazine, and the Otemon gate.
The current castle tower is the third version. The original was destroyed during the Siege of Osaka, and the second tower was lost in a fire caused by lightning during the Tokugawa period. Inside the castle, there is a museum with exhibits about the castle’s history and the era of provincial wars. The 8th-floor observatory offers great views of the city.
The castle is surrounded by secondary citadels, gates, turrets, and impressive stone walls and moats. The Nishinomaru Garden, which used to be the "western citadel," is a lovely lawn garden with 600 cherry trees.
Osaka Castle Park, which covers about two square kilometers, is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, especially in late March and early April.
Operating Hours : 9 AM - 5 PM
Entrance Fee : Free for children age 15 or younger. ￥600 for Adult.
4. Experience a Scenic Escape Into Nature by the Beauty of Minoo Park
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Minoo Park (箕面公园, or Minō Kōen in Japanese) is a forested valley located just north of Osaka, away from the city. In the fall, it is one of the best places in the Kansai Region to see autumn colors in a natural setting, unlike the fall leaves found at temples and gardens. The colors are usually at their best in the second half of November.
The main hiking trail in Minoo Park is about three kilometers long and follows the Minoo River through the valley. The trail starts near Hankyu Minoo Station and leads to Minoo Waterfall. This waterfall is 33 meters tall and is the park's main attraction. The name "Minoo Waterfall" comes from its similarity to winnowing, a farming method used to separate grains from husks (the Japanese word for "winnow basket" is "mino"). This name was later used for the whole area.
Operating Hours : 10 AM- 4 PM
Entrance Fee : Free :)
5. Unveiling a Landmark of Elegance at Osaka City Central Public Hall
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Osaka City Central Public Hall was built in 1918, right after the Meiji period ended. It is located in Nakanoshima, a popular area known for its western-style buildings from the Meiji and early Showa periods. The hall is in a redbrick building designed by Tatsuno Kingo, who also worked on Tokyo Station and Nara Hotel.
The building mixes neo-Renaissance and Baroque styles and was named a Nationally Important Cultural Property in 2002. Only the exhibition room on the 1st basement floor and the Free Visit Area are open to the public. Guided tours are available but need to be booked in advance. The hall is situated between the Dojima and Tosabori Rivers and is a short walk from Yodobashi Subway Station.
Operating Hours : 9.30 AM - 9.30 PM
Entrance Fee : Free , but the use of facilities and guided tours with reservations are charged.
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