Tsutenkaku, takoyaki, Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Castle—are you also longing to visit these famous Osaka destinations? But the most feared things when traveling are transportation confusion and tangled itineraries, or not knowing how to prepare in advance. To solve this worry, this article has specially compiled the latest 2025 Osaka travel planning info, including flights, accommodation, transportation, and recommended attractions, covering everything from start to finish. After reading this article, you'll be able to easily plan a perfect Osaka trip too!

Don’t Know How to Plan a Free Trip to Osaka for the First Time? This Pre-Travel Guide Has You Covered

A free and easy trip to Osaka sounds appealing, but what needs to be prepared before entering Japan? What things need to be arranged in advance? Don’t worry—just follow the guide below to see what to pay attention to before heading to Osaka, Japan!

👉Visit Japan Web Must Be Filled Before Entry

Although not mandatory, it is recommended to fill in the relevant information on the Visit Japan Web platform in advance. The Visit Japan Web website has integrated information on quarantine, immigration inspection, and customs declaration. After completing it and receiving the QR code before entry, remember to take a screenshot of the QR code in advance to avoid scrambling for Wi-Fi in the arrival hall.

👉Average Temperature and Clothing Advice in Osaka

Osaka has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by distinct seasons—hot and humid summers, and mild, dry winters. So when preparing clothing, you can refer to the information below:

• Spring (Mar–May): 11–20°C / Light jacket, long sleeves

• Summer (Jun–Aug): 24–32°C / Light jacket, short sleeves

• Autumn (Sep–Nov): 18–26°C / Light jacket, long sleeves

• Winter (Dec–Feb): 4–12°C / Coat, down jacket, heat tech wear  

Also, here's a good piece of news: late March to early April, and mid-November to early December are the best times for cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing in Osaka. Try to free up your schedule during those months!

👉Special Coupons and Ticket Usage

A shopping spree in Osaka wouldn't be complete without coupons! Many well-known brands such as Don Quijote, EDION, Bic Camera, and drugstores offer various discounts, which can be found inJapan's coupon roundup sites. Organize them before departure and the more you buy, the more you save!

Image Source:JR西日本

For transportation, ICOCA and Suica transportation cards are also highly recommended—similar to Taiwan’s EasyCard. In addition to physical cards, electronic versions are available. Just download the app, bind your credit card, and you’re ready to use.

👉Itinerary Planning Tips

Aside from clothing prep, transportation, and immigration details, you can also take advantage of special passes and travel hacks to explore Osaka more easily and affordably!

• JR Kansai-Airport Express HARUKA: From Kansai Airport, it takes only 35 minutes to Tennoji and 50 minutes to Osaka! Valid within 90 days of reservation. Save more by purchasing it as part of the Have Fun in Kansai Pass combo!

• Have Fun in Kansai Pass: A must-have ticket set for Kansai travel! Includes access to popular attractions and eateries in Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, and more. Choose 3 or 6 attractions to visit within 7 days. Just show the e-ticket QR code for easy entry. (Check the exclusive attraction map before using, as the list may update anytime—refer to the official website for the latest info.)

• JR Kansai Wide Area Pass (5 days): A must-have transportation pass for Japan travel! Covers popular cities and regions in Kansai. Unlimited rides on JR West’s express, rapid, and local trains during the valid period. Includes HARUKA airport express!

• Keihan Railway Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing 1-Day / 2-Day Pass: Unlimited rides for 1 or 2 days on the Keihan Main Line and the Otokoyama Cable Line—great for visiting attractions along the route.

Recommended 5-Day-4-Night Osaka Itinerary – This Is How You Can Plan Your Free Trip!

Must-Visit Attractions for a Free Trip to Osaka! 7 Stunning Spots You’ll Regret Missing

When talking about famous recommended attractions in Osaka, most people think directly of Universal Studios and Osaka Castle. Of course, those are classics, but if you want to experience the more local, authentic side of Osaka, then the following 7 attractions are absolutely worth visiting!

Attraction 1｜Universal Studios Japan 

A must-visit dream world in Osaka—so big you can’t finish it in a day! Offers limited-time themed events, super cute merch, tons of facilities, and the new Donkey Kong Country area, with loads of fun activities waiting for you to explore!

• Google maps

Attraction 2｜Osaka Castle

Image Source：photo AC 

One of Japan’s top 3 famous castles, alongside Kumamoto Castle and Nagoya Castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Here you can see the lifestyle and history of the past—great for learning about Osaka’s historical charm. The adjacent Osaka Castle Park has around 3,000 cherry blossom trees blooming in spring, creating a stunning blend of flowers and ancient architecture—no wonder it’s one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom spots.

Image Source：OSAKAINFO

• Google maps

Attraction 3｜Tsutenkaku

Also one of Osaka’s iconic landmarks, standing at around 103 meters high with an observation deck that offers views of Osaka’s cityscape. It features two popular experience zones: TOWER SLIDER and Dive & Walk.

Image Source：通天閣観光株式会社

• TOWER SLIDER: A slide about 60 meters long. As you slide down quickly, you can enjoy Osaka’s views along the way.

• Dive & Walk: A thrilling free-fall jump from 40 meters and a skywalk experience around the 26-meter-high central observation deck.

 Opening hours: 10:00–20:00 (Last entry 19:30)

• Google maps

• Travel Tip: If you have the Have Fun In Kansai Pass, you can redeem discount tickets for Tsutenkaku entry, TOWER SLIDER, and Dive & Walk!

Attraction 4｜Abeno HARUKAS

A skyscraper standing 300 meters tall. The 58th to 60th floors host the HARUKAS 300 Observation Deck. It has a café and a 360-degree glass window offering panoramic views of Osaka’s cityscape. You can also experience the helicopter helipad tour and thrilling skywalk!
Opening hours: 9:00–22:00 (Last entry 21:30)
Travelers visiting Abeno, remember to manage your time properly!

Image Source：あべのハルカス

• Google maps

• Travel Tip: With the Have Fun in Kansai Pass, you can redeem tickets for HARUKAS 300. 

• Similar spots: Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck, LUCUA Osaka 

Attraction 5｜Shinsaibashi 

Image Source：Japan Holiday

Image Source：HAPPYJAPPY

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street offers all kinds of clothing brands, drugstores, luxury stores, and restaurants. Nearby, America Mura is famous for its youthful street culture and indie shops—great for finding unique items.

• Google maps

• Similar spot: Dotonbori

Attraction 6｜Osaka Mint Bureau (Osaka Mint Museum)

Image Source：日本觀光局

Image Source：独立行政法人 造幣局

A building that retains traces from the Meiji era. The museum lets you learn about Japan’s minting history and various currencies. It’s also one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. Every spring, a cherry blossom event is held where visitors can walk the 560-meter-long “Sakura Tunnel” for free. 

Opening hours for cherry blossom viewing in 2025:

• Weekdays: 10:00–19:30

• Weekends: 09:00–19:30

• Google maps

Attraction 7｜Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Image Source：photoAC

Located in the middle of a shopping street, this shrine enshrines the god of learning—Sugawara no Michizane. Many exam takers come here to pray for success. The Tenjin Festival held every July is one of Japan’s top three festivals, alongside Tokyo’s Kanda Festival and Kyoto’s Gion Festival.

• Google maps

• Similar spot: Namba Yasaka Shrine

 A Must-Go Event in Osaka – A Sneak Peek at Expo 2025 Osaka

Speaking of Osaka, we must mention this grand event of the year—Expo 2025 Osaka, themed "Designing Future Society for Our Lives."
So, what will be exhibited at the Expo? Let’s continue reading to find out!

❓What is Expo 2025 Osaka? (Held: 2025/4/13 – 10/13)

Image Source：PR TIMES

The World Expo, also known as the Universal Exposition, has been a global stage for showcasing cutting-edge culture, economic strength, and technological innovation since its inception in 1851. It draws worldwide attention and brings together countries and organizations from across the globe.

Expo 2025 Osaka will feature a wide array of exciting pavilions and exhibitions that are sure to impress! Want the full scoop on how to explore it all? Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Expo 2025 Osaka – packed with must-see highlights, top 5 pavilions, food tips, and super handy travel info!

❓ How to Get to Expo 2025

The Expo’s main venue is located on Yumeshima, a man-made island in Osaka Bay. Since there are no parking lots nearby, it’s best to take the Osaka Metro directly to Yumeshima Station, which drops you right at the venue. Alternatively, you can hop on a direct airport limousine bus and get off at Yumeshima Transportation Hub No.1, then simply walk to the site.

❗ Meet the Mascot – Myaku-Myaku

While you’re there, don’t forget to snap a pic with Myaku-Myaku, the official Expo mascot! This mysterious creature is made from cells and water, symbolizing the flow of human DNA, wisdom, technology, and culture. Its name reflects the idea of connections being passed down from one generation to the next – a perfect symbol for the future-forward theme of the Expo!

Whether you’re heading to Expo 2025, shopping, eating your way through Osaka, or exploring historic landmarks, this travel guide has everything you need for a fantastic trip. And if you're planning a DIY Osaka adventure, be sure to grab the Have Fun in Osaka Pass – a legendary ticket that gives you access to top attractions and saves you tons on transport and admission. Add it to your packing list and get ready for the ultimate Osaka experience!