Night in Osaka
Last week I introduced some tips on getting to Osaka, this week I’ll be introducing some spots to go check out in Osaka!
Umeda Sky Building
Umeda Sky Building
First up, the Umeda Sky Building! One of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, the Umeda Sky Building is the world’s first linked twin skyscraper. The iconic landmark has been named one of the “Top 20 Buildings Around the World”, and the rooftop observatory, named The Floating Garden Observatory, is the perfect spot to view the entire city.
The Umeda Sky Building is only a 10 to 15 minute walk from Osaka and Umeda Station, and there are many signs in English to help you find your way there.
The building is open from 10:00 to 22:30 (last entrance time is 22:00) and admission costs only around ₩6,500 (¥700). If you have time, go once during the day and once during the night!
Night View
Universal Studios Japan
Entrance of Universal Studios Japan
If you’re a fan of roller coasters and rides, then you should also check out Universal Studios Japan! The theme park is easily accessible by subway. There are direct trains that depart from Osaka station or even Kansai Airport to get to Universal Studios Japan. Admission is a little on a pricey side, with one-day passes priced at approximately ₩67,000 (¥7,200).
Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The highlight of Universal Studios Japan is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is a must-visit destination for all Potter fans! The magical spot allows you to visit Hogsmeade, visit Zonko’s Joke Shop, Honeydukes and many other shops! After you’ve taken a picture with the Hogwarts Express and had your glass of Butterbeer, you can wander into Hogwarts!
If you’re not a fan of rides, just outside the park’s gates is Universal Citywalk Osaka. A “street” filled with shops selling Universal Studios merchandise, Osaka souvenirs, and a shopping mall that houses hotels and many restaurants. The Osaka Takoyaki Museum is located on the forth floor of the mall. It’s filled with different vendors selling the famous local dish, so be sure to check it out!
Namba (Dotonburi)
Namba (Dotonburi)
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Osaka is Namba. This location is also easily accessible by taking the subway to Namba Station. Dotonburi, a long street filled with restaurants and shops, is the highlight of Namba. The popular district never sleeps, with restaurants open until late into the night. Here, you’ll find the iconic Glico Running Man amidst many vibrant neon signs. Also located in the Namba area is the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade, a shopping center approximately 600m long! Namba is an area filled with endless possibilities, so be sure to check it out if you go to Osaka!
Article by Kristi from Canada
myHUBS 
[…] This is probably the most obvious travel destination considering how close it is. I decided to go to Tokyo and my flights were just over 200,000 KRW. However you can easily get flights to Osaka for a similar price, or cheaper in most cases. In the Tokyo vs. Osaka debate I would suggest going to Osaka. Tokyo is very similar to Seoul, so you aren’t experiencing much of a different atmosphere. Osaka has many great cities nearby that are a very short (and cheap) train ride away, such as Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe. From a budget standpoint Tokyo is much more expensive in terms of accommodations and food, especially when you are staying in central Tokyo. In a city like Osaka or Kyoto you are likely to see more clearly what the Japan culture is truly like, as opposed to the cold, congested nature of Tokyo. You can read more about Osaka in Kristi’s article’s here and here. […]