Kobe waterfront © Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com
About a half an hour by commuter train from Osaka, the city of Kobe makes a very pleasant excursion from Osaka.
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine © Avigator Thailand / Shutterstock.com
Sumiyoshi Taisha, in southern Osaka, is Osaka’s most impressive shrine. A great way to get there is the street tram.
Midosuji Boulevard in fall foliage season
Midosuji Boulevard in fall foliage season © Pond Thananat / Shutterstock.com
Few people associate Osaka with fall foliage but the city has some great foliage spots, including the main street of Osaka: Midosuji Boulevard, which runs right through the heart of the Minami district. Check out our Osaka Fall Foliage page for more details
Okonomiyaki, a real Osaka treat
Okonomiyaki, a real Osaka treat © Pasu Chakajpan / Shutterstock.com
Osaka is known for its approachable and plebian food. One of the city’s most famous specialties is okonomiyaki, which are batter and cabbage-based “pancakes” filled with all kinds of delights. Check out our Osaka’s Best Restaurants page for some recommended places to eat in the city.
Minoh Falls
Minoh Falls © Krunja / Shutterstock.com
About an hour north of Osaka, Minoh Park is a fantastic daytrip out of the city, especially in the fall, when the foliage comes alive. Check out Northern Osaka page for details.
Tempozan Ferris wheel in the evening
Tempozan Ferris wheel in the evening © Face-Moon / Shutterstock.com
The entertainment and dining complex of Tempozan, out in the Osaka Bay Area, is usually visited in the day, but it’s also a great evening destination.
Kita district in the fall
Kita district in the fall © Mirko Kuzmanovic / Shutterstock.com
The Kita district looks especially appealing in the fall. This view over the Yodo-gawa River toward Osaka City Hall is particularly pleasing.
Dotombori district in the evening
Dotombori district in the evening © LMspencer / Shutterstock.com
This pic of the lights of Dotombori and the entrance to Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade captures the frenetic vibe of the Minami district.
Hozenji Yokocho in the rain
Hozenji Yokocho in the rain © Nomad.Pic / Shutterstock.com
Hozenji Yokocho, a quiet pedestrian-only alley in the Dotombori area of the Minami district, is easily Osaka’s most atmospheric lane. Check it out!
Kita Shinchi entertainment district
Kita Shinchi entertainment district © beeboys / Shutterstock.com
Kita Shinchi, in the Kita district, is Osaka’s traditional and exclusive entertainment district. This is where Osaka’s captains of industry wine and dine their important clients. It’s fascinating to walk through.