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Eat, Drink & Cook in Japan

15 Best Osaka Food Tours [2024 Update]

Osaka is a city obsessed with food, and there’s no better place to experience Japanese food and local specialities. Enjoying an Osaka food tour is the best way to savour the fantastic food and soulful vibes of this gourmet city fondly known as ‘Japan’s Kitchen’.

I’ve hand-picked the best Osaka food and drink experiences by comparing each tour and highlighting what’s important. Why should you trust me?

Living in Osaka for nine years, I’ve taken many tours and discovered the most delicious dishes and best culinary neighbourhoods. After reading this, you’ll find an experience right for you.

Here are the 15 best Osaka food tours.

If you’re in a hurry, jump down to my at a glance comparison guide .

Osaka Food Tours: Quick Links

• Osaka Food Tour at Shinsekai with 10 Dishes
• Ura Namba Food Tour: Eat Like a True Osakan
• Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Dotonbori and Namba
• Osaka Night Bites Foodie Walking Tour
• Osaka Street Food Tour

Compare Osaka Food Tours: Quick Comparison Guide

• Kuromon Market Food Tours – eat your way through Osaka’s gourmet market

Osaka Food Tour: Best of the Best Experiences

‘  Savour deliciously addictive Osakan soul food around the famous Dotonbori and Namba area on tour 1 . Wash it down with sake and craft beer in backstreet bars on an Osaka street food tour.

Explore Osaka’s vibrant food scene and nightlife culture on fascinating tour 2 . Enjoy local and Japanese dishes at standing bars in off-the-beaten-track hipster hangout Temma.

Eat authentic Osaka food until you drop in Shinsekai’s secret spots on highly-acclaimed tour 3 . Ten dishes, two drinks and fun and friendly guides make it excellent value.

Discover trendy Ura Namba, one of Osaka’s best-kept culinary secrets, on tour 4 —an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars in a maze of narrow streets away from the tourist crowds.

Experience magical neon lights and hidden alleys bar hopping on this Namba and Dotonbori food tour. Get a taste of Osaka’s food and drink culture and meet the locals on tour 5 .  ’

Price per person based on two people attending a tour: $ = up to $89; $$ = between $90 & $129; $$$ = over $129. Some experiences offer discounted rates for groups of more people.

1. Osaka Street Food Tour

Discover the city’s best cuisine on this unforgettable private and personalised Osaka street food tour.

• Savour Osaka’s delicious soul and street foods, like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes)
• Explore the lantern-lit narrow streets and alleys of Namba in the heart of Osaka’s food scene
• Eat and drink like a local and learn about Osaka cuisine
• Sample different places to eat, like izakaya (Japanese-style pubs), street stalls and liquor stores
• Includes: A private and personalised tour, 6-8 dishes of Japanese and Osakan food, 2 drinks (alcoholic or soft), a walking experience and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Location: Dotonbori and Namba
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, flexible start time

Book Osaka Street Food Tour >>

2. Osaka Night Bites Foodie Walking Tour

Enjoy a fun and memorable night on this highly-rated small-group Osaka night food tour.

• Savour local delicacies like tonpeiyaki (pork omelette) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), and dote nikomi (slow-cooked beef in miso)
• Hang out with and chat with the locals over drinks at three tachinomiya (standing bars)
• Get off the beaten track and discover two distinct neighbourhoods
• Learn about food culture on one of the best food tours in Osaka
• Optional upgrade: 100g (around 3.5 ounces) of premium Kobe wagyu beef
• Includes: A whole dinner’s worth of food tastings from 3 restaurants, 3 drinks, a cultural walking tour and a train ticket
• Location: Kyobashi and Tenma
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 6pm

3. Osaka Food Tour at Shinsekai with 10 Dishes

Enjoy an unforgettable gastronomic journey with passionate and fun-loving locals.

• Savour 10 delicious Osaka specialities like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls), plus karaage (fried spiced chicken), gyoza, dessert and more
• Experience retro Shinksekai’s neon-lit streets and hidden alleyways.
• Visit five local places to eat: Izakaya (Japanese-style pub), tachinomiya (standing bar), restaurant, market and backstreet stall
• Choose from Japanese drinks like sake, beer, chuhai (shochu and lemon) and highball (whisky and soda)
• Includes: 10 dishes from 5 places, 2 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and a guided walking tour
• Location: Shinsekai and Nishinari
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 5.30pm

4. Ura Namba Food Tour: Eat Like a True Osakan

Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover Osaka’s delicious food culture on a private and personalised tour.

• Discover local specialities like okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and Osakan udon noodles, and fusion cuisine in this lively neighbourhood
• Explore this super-cool and buzzing area of Osaka to see how the locals entertain themselves
• Visit izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), tachinomiya (standing bars) and quirky bars
• Choose places to eat or leave it to your guide’s recommendations
• Includes: Private and personalised experience, 6-8 dishes of local food, 2 drinks (alcoholic or soft), walking tour and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Location: Ura Namba (area between Osaka-Namba and Nippombashi stations)

Book Ura Namba Food Tour >>

5. Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba

Discover izakaya (Japanese-style pub) food and drink culture with a local guide.

• Enjoy tasty food and drinks among Dotonbori’s bright neon lights and less-visited Ura Namba
• Try local specialities like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls), and classic Japanese drinking snacks
• Visit three different izakayas with a knowledgeable local guide
• Meet fellow travellers on this fun food and bar crawl
• Includes: 8 deep-fried skewers, 1-2 dishes, 3-4 alcoholic or soft drinks, 3 izakayas and a walking tour
• Location: Dotonbori and Shinsekai
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 6pm and 7pm

Book Osaka Bar Hopping Tour >>

Now you’ve seen my top recommendations, let’s continue the best Osaka food tours, including Kuromon Market.

To help you decide the right tour for you, here’s a quick comparison of what’s included, where you’ll go and the price.

All Osaka food and drink experiences include walking tours with English-speaking guides.

6. Osaka Deep Backstreets Tour with Dinner

Discover Osaka, off-limits to tourists, learn about local history and enjoy a post-tour meal.

• Explore parts unseen, including a red-light district, gambling dens, yakuza strongholds, a fishing restaurant, dimly lit gritty Osaka backstreets and more
• Devour delicious Osaka soul food like nikudofu (slow-cooked beef) and tonpeiyaki (pork omelette), plus karaage (deep-fried chicken) and yakitori (chicken skewers) — with dinner option
• Taste local snacks, takoyaki (octopus balls), and gyoza from street food stalls
• Select the ‘Tour with Dinner’ option for an authentic meal
• Includes: A full dinner of 5-6 dishes, 2 snacks and a deep Osaka walking tour with a professional guide
• Duration and start time: 3-3.5 hours, 5.30pm
• Location: Shinseakai and nearby South Osaka neighbourhoods

Book Osaka Backstreets Tour >>

7. Osaka Night Food Tour

Enjoy a perfect adventure for food lovers to see Osaka at night.

• Savour Osaka’s tasty kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) from a Michelin-rated street food stall
• See Dotonbori’s dazzling neon lights and the Glico running man sign
• Visit an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) for regional and Japanese cuisine
• Meet the friendly locals for a beer or nihonshu (sake)
• Includes: Multiple dishes from four food stops, one drink and a guided walking tour
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 5pm

Book Osaka Night Food Tour >>

8. Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

Savour Osaka’s soul foods on this great-value culinary journey.

• Eat delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in their birthplace – Shinsekai
• See the shimmering neon lights and narrow streets on the Dotonbori food tour leg
• Tuck into takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Osaka-style savoury pancake)
• Visit a Buddhist temple and Shinto shrine and get insights into Japanese culture
• Includes: 6 skewers and two dishes (vegan menu available), 1 drink and a guided tour
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 4.30pm and 5.30pm

Book Osaka Local Foodie Tour >>

9. Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

Enjoy the thrill of cycling and a food trip on the road less travelled.

• Savour melt-in-your-mouth grilled wagyu beef in Osaka’s ‘Korean Town’
• Sample delectable dishes like sushi, skewers, udon and chijimi (spicy pancakes)
• Learn about Osaka’s knife-making history and treat yourself to a chef’s knife souvenir
• Enjoy the serenity at one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples
• Includes: Lunch (multiple food stops), 1 bottled water, cycle hire and a guided bike tour
• Location: Shinsekai, Tennoji and Tsurushashi
• Duration and start time: 3-4 hours (approx.), 9.30am

Book Osaka Food & Bike Tour >>

10. Osaka Backstreet Night Tour

Enjoy a fun-packed evening and the raucous atmosphere of Osaka nightlife.

• Eat dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese-style pub) and get to know your group
• Savour Japanese food like fresh sushi, grilled yakitori (chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls)
• See Dotonbori’s neon lights before heading off to some backstreet bars
• Meet friendly locals and have more drinks (not included) until late
• Includes: Dinner, 1 drink, introductions to more bars and a guided tour
• Location: Namba and Dotonbori
• Duration and start time: 3 hours (approx.), 6pm

Book Osaka Backstreet Night Tour >>

11. Ultimate Kansai Region Food Experience

Experience Kansai’s food and drink specialities from the regional gourmet hub of Osaka.

• Try Osaka cuisine like fugu (pufferfish) prepared by professionally trained chefs
• Sample Kyoto culinary delights such as wagashi (confectionery), sake, and green tea
• Savour the mouth-watering taste of marbled Kobe wagyu beef
• Discover the origins and cultures of the dishes you eat and the local drinks
• Includes: Private and personalised experience, 6-8 dishes, 2 beverages, walking tour and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Duration and start time:   3 hours, flexible start time

Book Ultimate Kansai Food Experience >>

Kuromon Market Food Tours

‘  Known as ‘Osaka’s kitchen’, Kuromon Market is a lively place full of delicious food stalls and restaurants. You’ll find all manner of seafood, meat and vegetables along its 580 metres length.

Experience Kuromon Market and eat local and Japanese dishes until you drop on great-value tour 12 . Discover Osaka’s extraordinary food culture and see six different food markets on unique tour 13 .

On tour 14 , you’ll explore the market and sample tasty food before visiting a shopping street for kitchenware. Enjoy Kuromon Market and its delicious dishes on budget-friendly guided tour 15 .  ’

12. Kuromon Market Food Tour

Sample 10-12 Kuromon Ichiba (Market) foods on an excellent-value experience.

• Savour Osaka delicacy fugu (pufferfish) and soul food classics okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Try Japanese food favourites like sashimi, sushi, scallops, wasabi cheese and sakura mochi (rice and red bean confectionary)
• Learn about the market’s history and culture on this Osaka food market tour
• Experience a working Japanese food market and see foods you didn’t know existed
• Includes: 10-12 food tastings (lunch), coffee or tea, unique traditional chopsticks and a guided walking tour
• Location: Kuromon Market (meet at Nippombashi Station)
• Duration and start time: 1.5 hours (approx), 2pm

Book Kuromon Market Food Tour >>

13. Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious

Osakans say ‘ kuidaore ’, which means ‘to ruin oneself by extravagance in food’, and you’ll see why during this fascinating experience.

• Explore six diverse food markets where people shop and eat
• Visit the famous Kuromon Market and the locals alternative Tenjinbashi-suji
• Savour wagyu beef yakiniku (grilled meat) at ‘Korean Town’
• Sample dishes and whatever takes your fancy on this unique Osaka food tour
• Included: 6 Osaka food markets guided English-speaking tour and food recommendations
• Location: Namba, Temma, Tenjinbashi-suji, Tsuruhashi, Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji
• Duration and start time: 4 hours (approx.), 9am or 2pm

Book Osaka Food Markets Tour >>

14. Osaka Kuromon Market Food Tour with Tastings

Experience Kuromon Market like a local on this engaging tour.

• Enjoy various dishes from five market food stops
• Sample fresh sushi, wagyu beef skewers and local treats
• Learn about Osaka’s food culture and way of life from a local guide
• Visit Osaka’s ‘Kitchen Town’, Sennichimae Doguyasuji, an ideal place to pick up a Japanese knife
• Includes: Various dishes from 5 food stops, 1 drink and an English-speaking guided tour
• Location: Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 9am

Book Osaka Kuromon Market Tour >>

15. Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka

Explore Osaka’s culinary culture and discover unusual dishes you’ve never seen before.

• Sample tasty treats like fresh seafood, hotpot and street food
• Try Osaka’s most renowned soul food, takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Learn about the history, culture and cuisine of Kuromon Ichiba (Market)
• Uncover Japanese kitchenware and tableware for a souvenir to bring home at Doguyasuji
• Includes: 4-5 food samplings and a walking tour
• Duration and start time: 2 hours, 11 am

Book Kuromon Market Street Food Tour >>

Well, that’s a wrap! Please, don’t miss out on an opportunity to take an Osaka food tour. Its rich gourmet heritage makes it the perfect place to experience local, seasonal, and Japanese cuisine.

Images: kimishowota ,  Alexander Smagin

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10 Foods to Try in Osaka

Japan is famously a foodie’s paradise. Meals like sushi, ramen, and katsu curry are celebrated the world over. But Osaka is where food is truly innovated upon, and many of Japan’s most delightful culinary surprises can be found. With Tsuruhashi, one of Japan's most celebrated Koreatowns, and districts famous for their restaurants like Shinsekai and Dotonburi there’s plenty to explore. From bite-sized pockets of joy like takoyaki to the wholesome and savvy innovation that is omurice, there is so much food to love in Osaka

Calvin Chan Wai Meng / Getty Images 

If there’s one food that’s entirely associated with Osaka, it’s the fried and diced octopus balls known as takoyaki. The crispy, seasoned batter on the outside complements the gooey soft inside and is covered with a combination of sticky sweet sauce, bonito flakes, mayonnaise, and powdered seaweed before serving. The balls are fried in a special takoyaki pan, a griddle with spherical molds, and seeing the chef masterfully shape these perfect balls is all part of the fun. Typically eaten as street food, you’ll be able to try these in any of the Osaka arcades or food markets. You can also visit the popular Kougaryu in Shinsaibashi. A serving will usually consist of eight to 12 takoyaki and will undoubtedly fill you up for the day.

Okonomiyaki

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Another of the delicious konamon (flour foods) popular in the Kansai region, okonomiyaki could be described quickly as a layered savory pancake but the endless options for this cheap and delicious staple make it a dish you’ll want to try over and over again. The Osaka/Kansai style of okonomiyaki mixes the ingredients, typically cabbage and pork, into the batter, then is grilled on both sides before toppings and sticky sauce is added. In some places, you can cook the okonomiyaki yourself or watch the chef make it right in front of you. As this is generally a very customizable dish, vegetarian options are almost always available. Like takoyaki, you’ll easily find this inexpensive dish as street food but if you’d rather sit down to eat, try Mizuno in Dotonburi.

kaipong / Getty Images

Also known as kushiage, these fried vegetable and meat skewers are said to have originated in the Shinsekai district of Osaka, a district that should be top of any food lovers trip to Osaka. Kushi means skewers and katsu means a cutlet of meat so a lot of the skewers you’ll find will be meat dipped in panko, egg, and flour before being deep-fried. Many restaurants will also offer options such as shiitake mushrooms, quail eggs, lotus root, onion, and eggplant so vegetarians can also indulge in this Osaka delicacy. Dip your skewers in your provided tonkatsu sauce before eating but, as this sauce can be shared with several others, never double dip your skewer. One of the most famous kushikatsu spots is Daruma in Shinsekai.

Pressed Sushi (Oshizushi)

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While sushi is something you can indulge in all over Japan, Osaka is home to one of the biggest fish markets in Japan and has a big fishing culture in general. You can also try the Osaka specialty oshizushi (also known as box sushi): sushi that has been pressed in a mold known as oshibako. One example of Osaka’s oshizushi includes battera which is pressed sushi with mackerel and kombu and is named after the Portuguese word for a small boat. Due to the skill it takes to make this flavourful pressed sushi, there aren’t as many places to try it but a great option is Yoshino Sushi . They also serve great lunch sets.

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Barbecued meat is a real treat in Japan with unparalleled cuts of steak that will melt in your mouth. Yakiniku is thought to be Korean in origin (very similar to the famous Korean barbecue) and the Japanese trend is thought to have originated with a Korean person living in Osaka. You’ll be able to cook your meat over a traditional charcoal grill or a flat teppan cook surface. Both options are equally fun and this is a meal that’s best enjoyed as a group. Typically you’ll pick the cut and grade of beef you want and some vegetable sides to barbecue as well. One yakiniku place to try is Kitahama Nikuya which serves some of the finest cuts of beef in Japan, they also have English menus.

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Another Osaka delicacy, negiyaki is a beloved relative of okonomiyaki but the key difference is that the cabbage is replaced with a ton of green onions resulting in a thinner pancake with a completely different flavor profile. Of course, this is still covered in the sticky sweet sauce and toppings familiar to okonomiyaki lovers. Yamamoto specializes in negiyaki and is said to be the originator of this alternative savory pancake.

Kitsune Udon

This hearty dish translates to fox udon based on the myth that foxes love to eat fried tofu (the same myth that also gives us the name inarizushi ). Thick udon noodles are served in dashi broth and topped with aburaage or fried slices of tofu that have been braised in sweet soy sauce. The deep-fried tofu is also said to resemble a fox when it shrivels up. Usami-Tei Matsubaya is said to be the restaurant where kitsune udon originated and also offers some delicious sides like tempura.

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Though traditionally associated with China, these steamed buns are very much a favorite throughout Japan and the pork bun is a firm staple in Osaka. In fact, over 170,000 buns are sold a day from the popular Kansai chain 551 Horai . Often served with karashi (Japanese mustard), you can pick up hot buns to eat immediately or chilled ones which can keep for days. Outside of the Kansai region , they’re known as nikuman but since niku refers specifically to beef, the name doesn't work in Osaka. Hence the name butaman (meaning "pork bun").

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While yakiniku focuses on fine cuts of meat which are cooked over an open flame, horumon takes the same principle but applies it to offal. Other horumon based dishes include two hotpot dishes namd chiritori nabe and motsu nabe . Innards that are generally used include intestine, tongue, kidneys, stomach, and spleen. These are combined with a number of vegetable sides to barbecue. Considered full of collagen, this is a non-wasteful approach to meat-eating that’s cheap and extremely popular in Osaka. To try a high-end restaurant that specializes in horumon (and yakiniku) with English menus head to Mannoya .

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One of Japan’s most heartwarming dishes got its start in Osaka. It is thought to have originated in 1925, at the popular restaurant Hokkyokusei , when a customer would frequently order omelet and white rice. The chef decided to combine the two by wrapping the rice snugly within the fluffy omelet before topping with a savory tomato sauce. Thus Japan’s famous omurice was born. Several variations have developed since with curry sauce being added on top and various extras like fried chicken or mushrooms.

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14 Unique & Fun Osaka Food Tours to Enjoy in 2024

Often hailed as Japan's kitchen, Osaka is famous for its diverse and delectable street food, traditional dishes, and modern culinary innovations. We've handpicked sensational food tours that offer a deep dive into the city's rich gastronomy. From bustling street food to traditional delights and innovative cuisine, sample the flavors of Osaka with us, one unforgettable tour at a time. (Main Photo: Viator)

Osaka Private Night Tour: Dōtonbori & Ura Namba, 4 Hours With A Local

Osaka is a city that buzzes with energy all night long! Whether you're exploring the vibrant Namba entertainment district or seeking out culinary delights in the bustling lanes of Dotonbori , a magical night in Osaka is always on the cards. For a tailor-made nightlife adventure, the Osaka Private Night Tour is your perfect companion. A knowledgeable local guide will lead you on a four-hour escapade through the heart of Dotonbori and Ura Namba , the epicenter of Osaka's electric nightlife . You'll wander the nostalgic Ukiyokoji streets, savor late-night ramen , belt out tunes at Jankara karaoke , and hop from bar to bar , immersing yourself in the authentic nocturnal pursuits of the locals. Within 24 hours of your booking, you'll receive a questionnaire to capture your interests and preferences. Your responses will help pair you with a compatible guide who will craft the perfect itinerary for you. The tour is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to choose the meeting spot and accommodating last-minute tweaks to ensure your night is exactly what you've dreamed of.

• Great opportunity to experience how Osaka locals spend their nightlife.
• This tour is a private tour so you can enjoy the activities at your own pace.
• Itinerary is flexible and customized based on your preferences.

Hidden Osaka - Yukaku Red Light Tour & Culinary Adventure

Osaka is a city of contrasts, embodying the duality of Yin and Yang. By day, it radiates positive vibes, but as dusk falls, a more secretive side emerges, illuminated by the glow of neon in the nightlife districts. Dive into this lesser-known aspect of Osaka with the "Hidden Osaka - Yukaku Red Light Tour & Culinary Adventure." Your local guide will escort you through the enigmatic after-hours scene in two significant districts: Tobita and Shinsekai . Over the course of three hours, you'll venture to places like Tobita Shinchi and Tsutenkaku, areas seldom seen by tourists. The adventure is interspersed with visits to anime -inspired buildings, playful attempts at Enichi festival games , and a jaunt through Izakayas to sample Osaka's quintessential street food. Take the opportunity to explore the nocturnal heartbeat of Osaka and uncover the roots of its enduring energy.

• Explore off the beaten path of Osaka with a local English-speaking guide.
• Take a dive into Osaka's deeper side with insider perspectives.
• Experience a nightlife that is more eccentric than your ordinary night tours.

Osaka Food Market Tour

Osaka has earned its nickname "the city of Kuidaore," which translates to "eat until you drop," for good reason. Culinary delights are woven into the very fabric of Osaka's culture, and every street corner offers an array of mouth-watering local fare. For food enthusiasts eager to get to the heart of this epicurean excitement, the Kuromon market is an absolute must-see. To truly savor the Kuromon Market, consider joining the Osaka Food Market Tour. Spend three flavorful hours with a local guide who will weave you through the bustling stalls, introducing you to local delicacies that may include Michelin-rated octopus, sizzling yakisoba, and exquisite tuna sushi . Alongside the tastes, you'll be treated to engaging stories about the market's history, its culture, the Osakan lifestyle , and of course, the food. After indulging at the market, the tour continues to Osaka's "kitchen town," where you'll have the chance to meet local chefs. They'll share insights on essential cooking tools needed to prepare authentic Osaka dishes—perfect for those who wish to bring a slice of Osaka's culinary magic into their own kitchens. And don't miss out on the impressive display of plastic food samples, a unique and artistic representation of the local cuisine that's sure to capture your imagination.

• Get a taste of Osaka's delicacies at its best at the city's most famous market.
• Receive insights and recommendations on what to eat and where to find them.
• Meet with locals and get an insight into their perspectives on Osaka's food culture.

Osaka Shinsekai Evening Street Food Tour

While Namba and Dotonbori dazzle with their modern cityscape, to truly experience the heart of Osaka's past, a visit to Shinsekai is essential. Developed in the early 20th century, Shinsekai blossomed as a hub for Osaka's entertainment scene, particularly in the postwar Showa period. The nostalgic ambiance of that era still lingers in the district, with shops and eateries that have served generations of locals. To immerse yourself in Shinsekai 's unique atmosphere after dusk, consider joining the Osaka Shinsekai Evening Street Food tour. Over the course of three hours, a local guide will lead you through the alleyways and backstreets of this retro neighborhood, sharing insights only known to residents. You'll pause at five different food spots and savor six traditional local foods and drinks, each with its own place in the tapestry of Osaka's rich culinary heritage. This tour not only fills your stomach with delectable bites but also fills your soul with the genuine spirit of old Osaka.

• Stress free navigating around the deeper side of Osaka with an English speaking local guide.
• Enjoy some of Osaka's delicious street foods and drinks recommended by a local.
• Find hidden gems of Osaka only locals know about.

Osaka Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl Evening Tour in Uranamba Area

Meeting new people can truly elevate a good trip to a great one, and what better way to do so than by bar hopping? However, diving into a local bar scene and striking up engaging conversations can be intimidating, especially for foreign tourists. But there's no need to worry—the Osaka Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl Evening Tour is here to guide you. With a local guide by your side, you'll navigate through the city's favorite watering holes, from the old-school izakayas of Sennichimae to the sake bars of Uranamba. This three-hour tour not only promises a first-hand look at Osaka's vibrant drinking culture but also offers a perfect chance for newcomers to appreciate the art of Sake. Get ready to make unforgettable connections and memories!

• Meet new people and construct a social network.
• Enjoy drinking and looking for a cultural experience at night that is full of fun.
• Enjoy bar hopping that is foolproof and backed with a trustworthy local who speaks English.

Osaka City, Okonomiyaki Tasting Private Half Day Tour

Osaka is famous for its Konamon, or flour-based dishes, and no visit is complete without indulging in the local street food. Among these, Osaka Okonomiyaki , often referred to as Osaka's savory pancakes, is a must-try. Imagine freshly grilled pancakes packed with cabbage, pork, and squid, then smothered in a luscious sweet and tangy sauce—this is a flavor combination beloved by Osakans. In a city brimming with Okonomiyaki spots, picking the best can be overwhelming. But you don't have to do it alone—the Okonomiyaki Tasting Private Half Day Tour is here to guide your palate. Join your local guide for a 3-hour culinary adventure in Umeda , where you'll be led to a hidden gem inside the Umeda Sky Building. There, you can savor some of the finest Okonomiyaki , grilled right before your eyes—a quintessential Osakan experience not to be missed.

• Enjoy the best Okonomiyaki found around without you having to do the research.
• Have an English speaking local guide assist you on translation.
• Enjoy a taste of Osaka's food culture first hand.

Ramen Craftsman Experience in Osaka

Ramen , the soul-warming Japanese noodle soup, has skyrocketed in popularity worldwide. Each bowl is a symphony of flavors that perfectly complement the fresh, springy egg noodles, creating a comfort food that leaves you wanting more. However, replicating that restaurant magic at home can seem like an elusive dream. Enter the Ramen Craftsman Experience in Osaka—a chance to uncover the secrets behind the perfect bowl of ramen . In this intimate tour, a ramen shop owner opens his doors to teach you the craft. Over the course of an hour, you'll learn about the essential tools and techniques needed to create those heavenly bowls of ramen . While the complex broth is prepared in advance, you'll get hands-on experience with boiling the noodles and assembling your very own ramen dish. This experience is not only fantastic for children aged seven and up, as it offers a fun cooking lesson, but it also deepens their understanding of Japanese food culture. Imagine the satisfaction of savoring a bowl of ramen made by your own hands—this tour promises a unique and delicious ramen adventure that's truly one of a kind.

• Love to eat ramen and dream of making your own bowl.
• Have hands-on experience making your very own ramen with instructions from a pro who speaks English.
• Experience cooking in the kitchen of an actual ramen restaurant.

Takoyaki DIY Cooking in the Heart of Osaka

Takoyaki , another of Osaka's beloved street foods, is just as iconic as Okonomiyaki . These round, savory pancake balls are filled with pieces of fresh octopus and green onions, smothered in a sweet and tangy brown sauce, and then topped with mayonnaise and bonito flakes. They're not only delicious but also a delight to watch being made. The skilled flipping and turning of the Takoyaki on the griddle is a form of entertainment in itself. If you're interested in trying your hand at making these delightful treats, the Takoyaki DIY Cooking in the Heart of Osaka tour offers the perfect opportunity. Hosted at the retro-chic karaoke bar , 7up, this tour provides all the materials and guidance needed to create your own Takoyaki . Over the course of an hour, you'll cook up 20 Takoyaki balls (1 batch), and to make the deal even sweeter, you'll receive your first drink on the house. The bar 's intimate environment is ideal for mingling with locals and making new friends. And since 7up is also a karaoke bar , the fun doesn't stop with cooking—you can take the mic and belt out a song or two, fully immersing yourself in the vibrant Osakan culture. It's an experience that combines delicious food, social interaction, and entertainment , making for an unforgettable addition to your Osaka adventure.

• Get a first-hand experience making Takoyaki guided by an English-speaking local.
• Enjoy meeting new people over drinks and building networks.
• Try doing Japanese-style Karaoke in a unique atmosphere.

Tea Ceremony experience in Osaka Dotonbori

Dotonbori is indeed known as the lively heart of Osaka, where the streets are alive with an array of food stalls, bustling shops, and vibrant entertainment options. Yet amidst this energetic atmosphere, there lies an oasis of calm where one can immerse themselves in the traditional Japanese art of tea. The Tea Ceremony Experience in Osaka Dotonbori tour invites you to step into a world of tranquility and cultural richness. Led by a professional with over a decade of experience, this approximately 45-minute session allows you to partake in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony . It's not just about enjoying the soothing qualities of green tea; you'll also savor exquisite Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets ), gain insights into the history and culture surrounding the tea ceremony , and learn the proper etiquettes of this elegant practice. This tour is perfect for those looking to balance the excitement of Dotonbori with a peaceful interlude. If you need to set aside a moment of serenity in between your whirlwind trip, take this opportunity to find your peace of mind while you sip on some marvelous green tea inside a cultural atmosphere.

• Enjoy a more traditional and cultural experience in Osaka.
• Authentic tea ceremony conducted by a professional who speaks English.
• Enjoy delicious green tea with Wagashi in a peaceful environment.

3-Hour Osaka Local Food Hopping Tour in Namba

In Osaka's Namba district, nightlife may be known for its focus on drinks, but for those who are more passionate about food, Namba is a treasure trove. The area is filled with local eateries that serve up delectable local dishes, making it an ideal destination for food lovers to indulge in the full culinary experience of Osaka. If you're looking to combine a taste of Osaka's fantastic nightlife with a foodie adventure, consider the 3-Hour Osaka Local Food Hopping Tour in Namba . This tour lasts for three hours and takes you into the city after dark, hopping from one top-notch restaurant and izakaya to another. You'll get to try some of Osaka's famous dishes such as Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki . While you sample a variety of foods, you'll also be enriched with historical and cultural insights, ensuring that you leave with both a satisfied appetite and new knowledge. Namba 's vibrant nightlife creates a lively atmosphere that welcomes everyone to join in the fun. The tour offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in this vibe while enjoying delicious local food and drinks. It's a fantastic way to experience the charm of Osaka's food culture and nightlife with family and friends, and to create lasting memories of your trip.

• Discover what makes Osaka the "City of Food"
• Experience the nightlife of Osaka with a trustworthy local English-speaking guide who will give you perfect recommendations.

Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

For those who have a passion for both food and cycling, Osaka offers a unique opportunity to blend these two joys together. Imagine embarking on a journey where you can pedal through the city and simultaneously savor the culinary delights that Osaka is famous for. The Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour is an exciting option that caters to this very idea. Over the course of 3 to 4 hours, you'll be accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking local guide who will lead you on a cycling adventure through the heart of Osaka, with a focus on the southern parts of the city. As you ride, you'll get to visit local markets, interact with residents, and indulge in an array of local specialties. From slurping udon noodles to tasting fresh sushi , enjoying the luxury of Wagyu beef, snacking on skewers, and trying out chijimi pancakes, your taste buds are in for a treat. This tour is a fantastic way to break away from the usual sightseeing routine. You'll get fresh air, exercise, and a deep dive into the rich food culture that Osaka has to offer. It's a perfect blend of adventure and gastronomy, a chance to create memorable experiences as you navigate through the city's vibrant streets. Why not add a bit of pedal power to your exploration and discover the hidden culinary treasures of Osaka?

• Combine the joy of cycling and delicious discoveries in a foodie tour.
• Access a bigger radius of the city more freely than using public transport.
• Explore off-the-beaten-path areas with an English-speaking local guide and sample unique Osaka delicacies.

Deep Dive: Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious!

Indeed, while Kuromon Market may be the most renowned food market in Osaka, the city's culinary landscape extends far beyond this single location. Osaka is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of markets that each contribute to the city's rich food culture. From the underground food halls known as "Depachika" found in department stores to the bustling "Shotengai" or shopping streets, there's an abundance of spots to explore for those seeking unique and delicious experiences. For foodies looking to delve deeper into Osaka's market scene, the Deep Dive: Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious tour is an excellent choice. During this 4-hour journey, a local guide will introduce you to a variety of markets, including some that are lesser-known to tourists. You'll have the chance to visit places like Tsuruhashi Ichiba in Korean Town, the long Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, and Pulala Tenma, among others. Each destination on the tour is brimming with character and plays a significant role in showcasing the different facets of Osaka's food culture. This tour is an opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the local cuisine and to make some delicious discoveries that are truly unique to Osaka. If you're eager for an in-depth gastronomic adventure, this tour promises to be an unforgettable part of your culinary exploration in the city.

• Explore Osaka's food scene beyond the Kuromon Market.
• Get recommendations from a local English-speaking guide on the best places to eat and what to try.
• Visit destinations that are not in your guide books.

Takoyaki cooking experience in Osaka bay by cruise

Takoyaki , the renowned octopus ball snack of Osaka, is traditionally enjoyed at street stalls or izakayas, offering a taste of the city's classic street food culture. However, for those seeking a twist on this beloved snack and a truly memorable experience, the Takoyaki Cooking Experience in Osaka Bay by Cruise Tour presents a playful and romantic alternative. Imagine the unique combination of cruising across the picturesque Osaka Bay while learning to make authentic Takoyaki aboard a private boat. This 3-hour tour offers you a chance to not only indulge in the art of Takoyaki -making under the guidance of an experienced captain but also to enjoy your creations amidst the sea breeze and panoramic views of Osaka's skyline. This experience elevates the humble Takoyaki to new heights, blending culinary craftsmanship with the tranquility of a boat ride. It's a creative and enjoyable way to enjoy one of Osaka's signature dishes while taking in the offshore sights. If you're looking to step outside of the conventional culinary box and create lasting memories, this Takoyaki cooking cruise is an opportunity you won't want to miss.

• A foodie experience that is unique to Osaka.
• Enjoy a boat ride across Osaka Bay and catch some stunning views.
• Get first-hand experience in making Takoyaki.

Sushi Cooking Class in Osaka

around the world as a hallmark of Japanese cuisine , is much more than merely sliced fish atop seasoned rice. It is an art form that takes skill and precision to perfect, and for those eager to uncover the intricacies of crafting sushi , the Sushi Cooking Class in Osaka tour is an ideal opportunity. This tour provides a unique chance to learn from a licensed chef and professional instructor within the welcoming atmosphere of a local's home. The intimate setting, limited to just 8 participants, ensures personalized attention during the 2.5-hour session. You'll start by learning how to prepare the perfect sushi rice and then move on to the delicate art of rolling sushi . Sushi making is a delicate craft, and under the guidance of your instructor, you'll have several attempts to master the technique and fully appreciate the subtleties of this cuisine. After your hands-on experience, you'll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor—a beautiful sushi dinner accompanied by miso soup, the traditional Japanese omelet known as tamagoyaki, and possibly more. There's also the option to enhance your meal with a tasting of Japanese sake and local beers, discovering the perfect pairing to complement your sushi . You may even fancy up your dinner with Japanese sake and local beer-tasting options and enjoy the harmony this creates with sushi . Your dinner also comes with a Taiyaki (fish-shaped pancakes with sweet red bean paste) for dessert, so leave some room to fit that all in!

• Learn how to make a special sushi dinner that is memorable.
• Get first-hand experience taught by a professional.
• Enjoy the cooking class in English and not worry about translations.

Written by:

Hiroko Ariga

Hiroko, a Japanese national raised in Sydney, Australia, is a graduate of Sophia University with a degree in Literature and holds an MBA from the University of Newcastle, Australia. Initially working for a global institution, she transitioned to freelance writing after the birth of her son. In addition to LIVE JAPAN, she is a contributor to Tokyo Weekender Magazine. A Registered National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, she actively collaborates with the Kanagawa government, designing tours around Hayama and Miura Peninsula and is recognized as an official Kanagawa guide. Besides being a devoted mother, Hiroko is a Kimono teacher passionate about Ikebana and Japanese History.

• Area Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi
• Category Outdoor Activities Culture Experience Other Restaurants
• How To: Sightseeing

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The 9 Best Food Tours in Osaka You Need To Try In 2024

Osaka is globally and locally considered the kitchen of Japan, so what better way to explore this incredibly fascinating city, with its numerous alleyways of izakayas and streets lined with food stalls, than to hop on a food tour?

Of course, there is a fantastic degree of flexibility involved when creating your own exploring itinerary. However, the excitement of being taken someplace off the beaten path, with a chance to rub shoulders with locals, while being guided by a knowledgeable and engaging local is just too great of a deal to pass on – and we highly, highly recommend this option.

Below we’ve curated a fantastic list of the top 9 best food tours in Osaka for you to discover.

1. Osaka Food Tour (10 Delicious Dishes, 5 Hidden Eateries)

Keen to discover the food scene of Osaka like a true local? This all-encompassing Osaka food tour will take you to deep corners of this dense city and have you learning about the eateries that only true locals will know about and frequent.

The tiny bars and small few-seated restaurants can be quite intimidating for some to enter, especially if you feel like your language skills are limited. However, on this tour, your friendly guide, who is a well-known local, will introduce you to some hidden gems that will welcome people from all walks of life.

This entire food tour will have you stopping at five different places to sample 10 different Osaka traditional dishes. You’ll also be guided on which drinks to pair with your food, from alcoholic beverages such as chuhai and plum wine to Japanese soda.

Highlight :

• Visit 5 restaurants to sample 10 different dishes at hidden and authentic Osaka eateries
• Visit pockets of Osaka that are normally frequented only by locals
• Learn about the history of Osaka’s food and culture

2. Engaging, Immersive Osaka Foodhood Tour (15 Foods, 3 Drinks)

If you consider yourself a massive foodie, this immersive Osaka Foodhood tour is a fantastic option for you!

Dotonbori and Shinsekai receive an enormous amount of love from tourists, and rightfully so. They’re both super engaging, exciting, and fun-filled areas that are as fascinating as they are memorable.

However, many areas in and around Osaka offer just as much character and adventure and are often without crowds.

Tenma and Kyobashi are two such areas, and this food tour gives them the amount of attention that they deserve. Deep in the Osaka suburbs, these two neighborhoods are brimming with overwhelmingly fascinating food culture and nightlife.

Tenma is home to a huge shotengai, whereas Kyobashi is a watering hole that’s a diamond in the rough – often overlooked and not nearly as crowded as other food streets.

In this food hall tour, you’ll be discovering Osaka by night, skipping your way through tiny standing bars and traditional Japanese restaurants. By the end of the tour, you’ll be full of the likes of sashimi, kushikatsu, seasonal grilled vegetables, and much more.

• 3-hour food tour of underrated foodie neighborhoods in Osaka
• Experience a full dinner as well as 3 additional drinks!
• Learn about the history and culture of Osaka

3. Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour

Fancy witnessing the nittier, gritter side of Osaka? This backstreet tour of Osaka will introduce you to Kevin, a knowledgeable Japanese-Australian who won’t hesitate to tell you more about the unfiltered side of Japan.

You will experience some of the most authentic Japanese eateries in Osaka whilst learning about the history of the region that’s not normally portrayed in blogs. Gain insights into taboo topics and truly deep-dive below the surface level of Osaka as a region.

The eateries you will be taken to will likely not appear on any ‘lists’ online; they’re only frequented by locals and are considered ‘hidden’ – what a treat! Fill your stomach up with 8 different delicious Japanese foods, and then arrive at the final destination, which is an izakaya, for a course meal to finish off the fantastic food tour.

• Indulge in 8 different authentic Japanese dishes
• Learn about the history of the region; facts commonly unknown
• Stoll through the red light district from the Taisho era (optional)

4. The Ultimate Osaka Night Tour

Exploring Osaka by day is one thing, but exploring the neon-lit city by night is just a whole new experience.

In this ultimate Osaka night tour, you’ll get to witness this vibrant city come to life at night, dining at some of the best pubs that Osaka has to offer, and discover some hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise know about.

The guide is a well-versed local, knowledgeable and passionate about what the nightlife and food culture of Osaka has to offer. You’ll start the tour off at an izakaya, where you’ll get to eat an authentic Japanese pub-style dinner.

From there, you’ll be walking the streets of Namba, but not as you know it. Follow your guide through the quiet, unknown alleys of Namba, away from the crowds and noise, and into the joints of the locals.

You’ll finish off at the party center of Shinsaibashi and Amemura, but not before grabbing a selfie at Dotonburi.

• Discover a different side of Osaka – the party side
• Enjoy a full dinner at one of Osaka’s best local izakaya restaurants
• Explore the backstreets of Namba like a local
• Tour includes your first drink at every post-dinner venue!

5. Half Pint Craft Beef in Osaka

Craft beer is a long-time passion of Japanese people and this tour of the best craft beer in Umeda will expose you to a side of Japan that you probably didn’t know existed!

For craft beer enthusiasts, this is the dream tour. It will focus on specific Japanese craft beers and their respective breweries, led by a Certified Beer Server who boasts extensive knowledge of the industry.

For those who are not craft beer enthusiasts, this is still quite a fun tour to engage in. You will come across a wide range of Japanese beers and gain interesting and valuable insights into the world of Japanese craft beer. You may even discover a new favorite beer!

• You are entitled to a half-pint at each location!
• Get insight and exposure to several craft bars in downtown Osaka
• The guide is a certified beer server with extensive knowledge on craft beer

6. Osaka Night Life: Eating and Drinking

This food tour focuses on the neighborhood of Tenjinbashi, one of Osaka’s most famous food streets. If you’re a Netflix fiend, you might even recognize this street from the popular “Street Food” series!

Despite the global attention it received, Tenjinbashi is still relatively low-key, frequented by locals, and devoid of crowds.

This tour will take you deep into the crevices of Tenjinbashi, through its narrow alleys of hidden bars and restaurants, and introduce you to some of the most welcoming hosts you’ll ever come across.

Expect to experience some of Japan’s most authentic dishes, including takoyaki, Wagyu beef, sushi, and ramen!

• Experience nightlife in Osaka, led by a local
• Eat quintessential Japanese dishes at authentic Japanese restaurants

7. Osaka Kuromon Market and Kitchen Town Tour

The Kuromon Ichiba Market is Osaka’s version of the Tsukiji Markets, and, coming from the city that’s known as Japan’s kitchen, you just know that the market will be good!

Taking you through is a knowledgeable local guide who won’t hesitate to point out the best places to sample fresh seafood, sashimi, and produce. You’ll be spoilt for choice, as Kuromon Ichiba boasts a whopping 39 fishmongers, 10 grocery shops, 12 butchers, 7 candy shops, and 24 restaurants!

After you’ve had your fill, head to Sennichimae Doguyasuji, a place where you can witness the model plastic Japanese foods being made. Known as Osaka’s ‘Kitchen Town’, Sennishimae Doguyasuji is also an area you can purchase Japanese ceramics, dinnerware, knives, and the like.

Don’t forget to bring extra cash for all the souvenirs you’ll be purchasing for your home!

• Explore the Kuromon Ichiba Market like a local
• Get insights on the most high-quality seafood at the market
• Visit and learn more about Sennichimae Doguyasuji, Osaka’s ‘Kitchen Town’
• Shop for souvenirs

If you want to visit similar places in Osaka, make sure you check out our article about the best street food spots in Osaka .

8. Nostalgic Shinsekai Osaka Street Food Tour

The gorgeous neighborhood of Shinsekai is as stunning during the day as it is at night, and the best thing about this tour is that you can opt to do it during the AM or PM!

Shinsekai offers a nostalgic, vintage atmosphere to all those who visit it; references to the early 1900s and 1960s can be found along the colourful streets through its architecture, exterior and interior decor, and signage. Despite its neon-lit facade, the retro vibes truly shine through.

In this food tour, you’ll be introduced to some famous Osaka street foods, including kushikatsu (battered and fried skewers), and takoyaki (octopus balls), at restaurants that operate on a 24-hour basis.

You’ll discover some authentic hole-in-the-wall joints that would otherwise be overlooked, and learn more about the food culture of Osaka than you would if you were exploring on your own.

Shinsekai is exciting and bustling during the day, but at night, it truly comes alive with lit-up lanterns and neon signs.

• Discover 5 different food stops with authentic Japanese foods
• Immerse yourself into a retro-style neighborhood in Japan – plenty of photo opportunities!
• Experience the local cuisine, such as kushikatsu

9. Backstreets of Osaka Food Tour at Night

Osaka at night is nothing short of amazing – the frisson in the air as you explore this crazy beautiful city cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world, and Dotonbori is located right in the center of all the excitement.

If you think you know Dotonburi, think again.

This food tour that will take you through the backstreets of the vibrant Dotonburi entertainment area will expose you to a side that you’ve never been to before.

You’ll still get to experience the frenzy of the street, but instead of fighting your way through the crowds, you’ll explore the windy little alleyways, which will eventually bring you to the other side of Osaka.

Sample local dishes such as kushikatsu, cram yourself into a tiny izakaya, clink beers with the locals, and finish up with some delicious local dessert.

• 4 different food stops with street food and local restaurant experiences (including kushikatsu, takoyaki, and seasonal dishes)
• Explore the smaller alleyways of Dotonburi
• Discover Osaka’s retro drinking alleys

Endeavoring to sample all that Osaka, Japan’s Kitchen, has to offer is a big feat. We know because we’ve tried.

It’s an impossible task because there is just so much on offer in this eclectic, vibrant, food-fueled city!

However, these top 10 best food tours in Osaka will not only expose you to the best side of Osaka’s food scene but will take you deeper than the surface level and allow you to learn how it all came to fruition.

We hope you enjoyed reading about these food tours in Osaka, and if you’ve decided to explore the city through any of them, let us know how your experience goes!

If you want to know how to make some of Osaka’s specialities, make sure you also join one of the 5 best cooking classes in Osaka !

Wanna join food adventures in Tokyo and Kyoto too? Check out our selections of the best food tours in Tokyo and the best food tours in Kyoto .

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10 Osaka Food Specialties and Where to Try Them

Osaka, Japan's third largest city, is often referred to as the nation's kitchen and for a good reason. Known for its vibrant food culture, the city is a gastronomic paradise that offers an array of mouth-watering specialties. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, every corner of Osaka promises a unique culinary experience that goes beyond the familiar sushi and ramen .

In this blog post, we'll take you on a culinary journey through the streets of Osaka , introducing you to the city's top 10 food specialties and where to find them. Each dish has its own story, deeply rooted in the city’s history and tradition. So prepare to whet your appetite and embark on a flavorful adventure that will leave you craving for more.

1. Takoyaki

Takoyaki, small, round balls made of a wheat-flour-based batter and cooked with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion, is a beloved street food in Osaka . Originating from the 1930s, it reflects Osaka's creative culinary spirit.

These bite-sized delights are typically brushed with takoyaki sauce, similar to Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise, then sprinkled with green laver (aonori) and shavings of dried bonito (katsuobushi).

Best Places in Osaka to Try Takoyaki:

Aizuya : Considered the birthplace of Takoyaki, Aizuya offers a nostalgic journey to the snack's origins. Their Takoyaki is known for its classic taste, balancing the flavors of octopus and batter with a delectably crispy exterior.

Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae : Situated in Namba, this spot is a favorite among locals for its tender and juicy takoyaki. They masterfully blend the traditional recipe with a slightly softer batter, creating a unique texture that melts in the mouth.

Kukuru: This establishment stands out for its 'Akashi-yaki' style Takoyaki, which uses a more liquid, dashi-rich batter, offering a softer and more eggy version of the classic snack. It's a must-try for those looking to explore variations of Takoyaki.

Learn to prepare authentic dishes including Takoyaki.

2. Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki, often described as a Japanese savory pancake, is made from a batter of flour, grated nagaimo (a type of yam), water or dashi, eggs, shredded cabbage, and various ingredients such as green onion, meat (usually pork), octopus, squid, shrimp, or cheese.

Okonomiyaki in Osaka is particularly renowned for its distinct style, where the ingredients are mixed into the batter before grilling, as opposed to layered, which is common in other regions.

Top Okonomiyaki Restaurants in Osaka:

Mizuno : A must-visit in Dotonbori, Mizuno has a rich history dating back over 60 years. Their specialty lies in their use of yam in the batter, creating a uniquely fluffy and light texture. The restaurant's customizable options allow diners to tailor their Okonomiyaki to their taste.

Chibo : Located in several parts of Osaka, Chibo is celebrated for blending traditional Okonomiyaki with innovative ingredients. Their signature dish, Dotonbori Okonomiyaki, is a flavor-packed creation that perfectly encapsulates Osaka's bold culinary style.

Kiji : Nestled in the Umeda Sky Building, Kiji offers an authentic Osaka Okonomiyaki experience. Their pancakes are known for their rich, umami flavor and perfectly crisp exterior, a result of the meticulous grilling technique that has been perfected over the years.

Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Osaka's vibrant street food scene.

3. Kushikatsu

Kushikatsu, also known as Kushiage, is a quintessential Osaka dish consisting of skewered and breaded deep-fried meat, seafood, and vegetables. This culinary delight originated in the Shinsekai district of Osaka during the early 20th century, offering an affordable and quick meal for the working class.

The essence of Kushikatsu lies in its simplicity and the variety of ingredients used, ranging from pork, beef, chicken, to shrimp, scallops, and an assortment of vegetables. Served with a dipping sauce, Kushikatsu is a testament to Osaka's love for hearty, street-style food.

Famous Kushikatsu Joints in Osaka:

Daruma Shinsekai : A legendary name in the world of Kushikatsu, Daruma, established in 1929, is known for its traditional approach and strict 'no double dipping' rule in their shared sauce containers. Their skewers, featuring a light yet crispy batter, are a benchmark for quality in the Kushikatsu scene.

Yaekatsu : Tucked away in the bustling Namba district , Yaekatsu is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its wide variety of skewers and particularly light and crisp batter. Their attention to using fresh, high-quality ingredients elevates the humble Kushikatsu to a gourmet level.

Tengu: This establishment offers a slightly more modern take on Kushikatsu, with a cozy ambiance. Tengu is renowned for its expansive menu, featuring classic items as well as more unconventional choices like cheese and asparagus skewers.

Taste iconic dishes like kushikatsu while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Namba.

4. Osaka-Style Ramen

Osaka-style Ramen, while less internationally renowned than its counterparts from Tokyo or Hakata, offers a unique local twist on the Japanese noodle soup. Characterized by a rich and hearty broth, typically soy sauce (shoyu) or pork bone (tonkotsu) based, it's often served with thick, chewy noodles. The Osaka Ramen scene is a blend of traditional and modern styles, reflecting the city's dynamic and evolving culinary landscape.

Best Ramen Shops in Osaka:

Kinryu Ramen : With its distinctive 3D dragon signage, Kinryu Ramen is an iconic spot in Dotonbori . Known for its generous portions and richly flavored broth, it offers a classic Osaka Ramen experience, available 24/7.

Ramen Yashichi : This Michelin-recommended ramen shop specializes in a creamy, rich chicken-based broth. Their meticulous preparation and the balance of flavors in their ramen have earned them a loyal following.

Ippudo Namba : Part of the famous Ippudo chain, the Namba outlet provides a fusion of Hakata-style tonkotsu with a distinct Osaka twist. The shop is known for its modern ambiance and the ability to customize the firmness of your noodles, along with various toppings.

Explore Osaka and try this delectable specialty.

Udon, thick and chewy wheat flour noodles, is a staple in Japanese cuisine , and Osaka offers its unique take on this classic dish. Osaka's Udon scene is characterized by its diversity, ranging from simple, broth-based dishes to more elaborate offerings featuring various toppings like tempura, tofu, and meat. The Udon in Osaka stands out for its distinctively soft yet firm texture and the depth of flavor in the accompanying broth, often made from a blend of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin.

Must-visit Udon Restaurants:

Tsurutontan Soemoncho : Renowned for its oversized bowls and generous portions, Tsurutontan Soemoncho offers a wide variety of Udon dishes. Their menu features both traditional and innovative creations, making it a perfect spot for both Udon connoisseurs and newcomers.

Udon Iroha: A hidden gem in the Namba district, Udon Iroha is famous for its Kama-age Udon – noodles served in a communal hot pot with a flavorful dipping sauce. Their focus on simple, high-quality ingredients has earned them a loyal following.

Dotonbori Kamukura : This place is known for its unique combination of Udon and rich broth, offering a different take on the classic Udon dish. The ambiance adds to the experience, capturing the lively spirit of Osaka's food culture.

Visit Dotonbori and have a taste of udon.

6. Takomeshi

Takomeshi, a flavorful rice dish cooked with octopus, is a lesser-known but essential part of Osaka's culinary repertoire. It combines tender, succulent pieces of octopus with seasoned rice, often flavored with a mix of soy sauce, sake, and sweet mirin.

The dish showcases Osaka's love for seafood and its ability to transform simple ingredients into a delicacy. Takomeshi not only reflects the city's coastal connections but also its historical penchant for creative, comforting cuisine.

Best Spots to Savor Takomeshi:

Takomeshi Tako Tako King : Situated near the bustling Tsutenkaku Tower, this restaurant specializes in Takomeshi. They serve perfectly cooked octopus that is both tender and flavorful, combined with expertly seasoned rice.

Ajiho: Known for its traditional approach, Ajiho offers a version of Takomeshi that is both authentic and comforting. The dish here is prepared with a focus on bringing out the natural flavors of the octopus, paired with subtly seasoned rice.

Tako no Tetsu : A popular choice among locals, Tako no Tetsu offers a more modern interpretation of Takomeshi. Their dish features a blend of tender octopus and perfectly cooked rice, infused with a unique blend of seasonings that elevate the overall flavor.

Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through Osaka's vibrant Namba district.

7. Negiyaki

Negiyaki, a thinner and lighter cousin of the famous Okonomiyaki, is a savory pancake loaded with green onions (negi) and typically seasoned with a soy-based sauce. This dish is a testament to Osaka's culinary ingenuity, transforming simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Unlike Okonomiyaki, which is denser and contains a variety of ingredients, Negiyaki focuses on the sweet and slightly sharp taste of green onions, complemented by a thin, tender batter. It's a popular choice for those who enjoy a lighter, yet equally delicious, alternative to the more commonly known Osaka specialties.

Premier Negiyaki Eateries in Osaka:

Yamamoto Negiyaki : Widely regarded as the best place to experience Negiyaki in Osaka, Yamamoto Negiyaki has perfected the art of this dish. Their Negiyaki is renowned for its balance of flavors and the perfect texture of the pancake.

Negiyaki Yamamoto Umeda Store : A branch of the famous Yamamoto Negiyaki, this restaurant offers the same high-quality Negiyaki in the bustling Umeda area. The ambience here adds to the dining experience, offering a glimpse into Osaka's lively food culture.

Tsuruhashi Fugetsu : Known for both Okonomiyaki and Negiyaki, Tsuruhashi Fugetsu offers a version of Negiyaki that is rich in flavor and perfectly cooked. It's an ideal stop for those looking to compare and contrast Okonomiyaki and Negiyaki.

Taste local delicacies and immerse yourself in the area's rich history and culture.

Fugu, or pufferfish, is one of Japan's most famous and luxurious culinary delights , known as much for its unique flavor and texture as for its potential danger if not prepared correctly. In Osaka, Fugu is a seasonal specialty, typically served in the colder months, and is prepared by highly trained and licensed chefs.

This delicacy can be enjoyed in various forms, including sashimi (thinly sliced), nabe (hot pot), and even Fugu sake (infused with the fish). Eating Fugu is not only about savoring its delicate and refined taste but also about experiencing an age-old Japanese culinary tradition.

Renowned Fugu Restaurants in Osaka:

Dotonbori Fugu: Situated in the heart of Osaka's food district, Dotonbori Fugu specializes in Fugu prepared in traditional styles. Their Fugu course meals are an excellent way to experience the different preparations of this exquisite fish.

Fugu Ryori Saikyo Honten : Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional cuisine, this restaurant offers a luxurious Fugu dining experience. Their chefs are skilled in the art of Fugu preparation, ensuring a safe and delightful meal.

Step into the world of Osaka's delicious street foods with this tour in Dotonbori and Namba.

9. Osaka Sushi

Osaka's sushi scene, though often overshadowed by the fame of Tokyo's sushi , presents its unique charm and flavors. Known for its 'hako-zushi' or 'box sushi', Osaka's sushi style is distinct in its presentation and taste. This style typically involves pressing sushi rice and toppings in a mold, creating layers of flavors and textures.

The sushi in Osaka often features marinated, cooked, or cured ingredients, rather than just fresh fish. This reflects Osaka's historical preference for longer-lasting foods during the time when refrigeration was not available, leading to the development of unique preservation techniques and flavor profiles.

Top Sushi Bars in Osaka:

Endo Sushi Kyobashi : A revered name in Osaka's sushi landscape, Endo Sushi offers an exquisite array of sushi, prepared with the freshest ingredients. Their focus on quality and traditional techniques makes for an unforgettable sushi experience.

Harukoma Sushi: Located in the bustling Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, Harukoma Sushi is celebrated for its generous cuts of fish and wide variety of options. It's a must-visit for those looking to experience the local take on sushi.

Sushi Hoshiyama : Offering a more contemporary approach to sushi, Sushi Hoshiyama is known for its innovative flavor combinations and impeccable presentation. The chef's expertise in blending traditional and modern techniques results in a truly unique dining experience.

Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Osaka.

10. Teppanyaki

Teppanyaki, where 'teppan' means iron plate and 'yaki' means grilled, is a style of Japanese cuisine that has gained international fame for its theatrical and interactive cooking style. In Osaka, teppanyaki is not just about the food, but also the experience of watching skilled chefs preparing your meal right before your eyes.

This cuisine is not only a treat to the taste buds but also to the eyes, as chefs deftly flip, chop, and grill ingredients, ranging from high-quality beef, seafood, vegetables, to rice and noodles.

Best Teppanyaki Restaurants for an Authentic Experience:

Teppanyaki Icho Umeda: Located in the Hilton Osaka, Icho Umeda is renowned for its high-quality ingredients and skilled chefs. Their menu features a range of options, from succulent Kobe beef to fresh seafood, cooked to perfection on the teppan.

Steak house Juju : This cozy yet elegant restaurant provides a more intimate teppanyaki experience. Steakhouse Juju is celebrated for its fine selection of meats and personalized service, ensuring a memorable meal for each guest.

Savor authentic flavors and enjoy a unique, vintage Japanese experience.

An Unforgettable Culinary Journey in Osaka

As our delectable journey through Osaka concludes, it's clear that this city is a culinary hotspot. Its unique array of dishes, from the crunchy takoyaki to the delicious okonomiyaki, perfectly encapsulates the vibrant and rich culture of Osaka.

The city's food scene, as warm and welcoming as its people, promises an unforgettable gastronomical adventure for both daring food explorers and lovers of traditional cuisine alike. So, when you're in Osaka , don't miss the chance to indulge in these 10 specialties at their most famous establishments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What food is osaka famous for.

Osaka, often referred to as the "Kitchen of Japan", is renowned for its diverse and delicious food. It's particularly famous for dishes like Takoyaki (octopus balls), Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake), and Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables).

What is Osaka special for?

Osaka is special for its vibrant street food culture. From bustling markets to small food stalls, the city offers a unique gastronomic experience. Aside from its famous dishes, Osaka is also known for other culinary delights such as Negiyaki (a variant of Okonomiyaki), Kitsune Udon (noodles with tofu), and Yakiniku (grilled meat).

Is Osaka the food capital?

Yes, Osaka is often dubbed as the "Food Capital" of Japan. Known for its rich culinary scene, the city is a paradise for food lovers. It's not just the variety, but also the quality of food that makes Osaka a culinary capital. Japanese tend to rate restaurants strictly, making the city's food scene highly competitive and diverse.

What are 3 popular foods in Japan?

Japan's cuisine is incredibly diverse, but three popular foods that stand out are Sushi & Sashimi (raw fish served with rice), Ramen (noodle soup), and Fugu (Japanese pufferfish). While these dishes are popular throughout Japan, each region, including Osaka, adds its unique twist to them.

Continue reading

Osaka Food Guide

It has been said that the people of Osaka spend more on food than on anything else, and the term "kuidaore" ("eat until you drop") is used to describe the food culture here. At the same time, the locals have high expectations towards the quality of their cuisine, and restaurants have to maintain high standards or face closure.

Not surprisingly, Osaka is famous for various local dishes, some of which have attained nationwide and even international fame. Luckily for the budget traveler , most of these dishes are economical fares:

Okonomiyaki

Kitsune Udon

Where to eat

The best place to experience Osaka 's food culture is the neon-laden Dotonbori district near Namba Station, which is packed with all types of eateries along its main thoroughfare and many side streets.

For a nostalgic atmosphere of past decades, the Shinsekai district with its kushikatsu shops and shogi parlors cannot be beaten. Another major dining district is Kitashinchi , a ten minute walk south of Osaka Station, while Osaka Station City itself is a safe destination for the less adventurous diners with its multiple elegant restaurant floors.

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10 Excellent Osaka Food Tours and Cooking Classes

Make the most of your time exploring Osaka's food scene with a guided tour or a Japanese cooking class. Each of these 10 food tours brings you unique encounters with Osaka cuisine, from staple dishes like takoyaki and kushikatsu, to advanced tea blending techniques and more!

Often described as the kitchen of Japan, the area around Osaka is a culinary playground for visitors looking to sample a wide range of Japanese cuisine.

From food that nourishes body and soul to luxurious meals from the food markets, there are numerous opportunities to savor Osaka's culinary delights. Selecting just 10 favorites was a challenging task!

Explore Osaka's Food Scene

1. Osaka Food Tour: 13 Delicious Dishes at 5 Local Eateries 2. Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai 3. Osaka Nighttime Food-n-Fun with Locals 4. Osaka Cuisine Cooking Class 5. Ramen and Two Types of Gyoza Dumpling Cooking Class 6. Deep Dive: Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious! 7. Retro Osaka Street Food Tour in Shinsekai 8. Japanese Tea Blending Workshop in Osaka 9. Osaka Sake Tasting with Takoyaki DIY 10. Absolute Osaka Food Tour

1. Osaka Food Tour: 13 Delicious Dishes at 5 Local Eateries

Photo courtesy of Viator This popular Osaka Food Tour was inspired by the Netflix show "Somebody Feed Phil." Follow in the footsteps of the series as you uncover hidden culinary treasures featured on the show.

Visitors will get a chance to savor a variety of Japanese dishes from the ever-popular takoyaki to some more common but expertly prepared dishes such as udon and soba noodles! Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Osaka with two carefully chosen beverages—one alcoholic and one non-alcoholic—that perfectly complement your culinary exploration.

This small group tour ensures personalized attention from your guide and the chance to delve deeper into the local food culture. Ask questions, learn, and truly savor the essence of Osaka through this unforgettable culinary journey!

2. Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

Photo courtesy of Viator

Osaka's Dotonbori and Shinsekai are the best places to start exploring local street food. Join the Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour to enjoy local Japanese cuisine while uncovering the cultural and historical treasures of the area.

Dotonbori is a haven of street food places where you’ll sample steaming bites of takoyaki and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Then you’ll set off to Shinsekai and sample the delights of kushikatsu, deep-fried morsels of breaded ingredients.

Explore hidden alleys, temples, and secret spots known only to locals, gaining a deeper understanding of Osaka's vibrant culinary scene.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this small group food tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more of Osaka's delectable delights.

↑ Return to the top of article.

3. Osaka Nighttime Food-n-Fun with Locals (6 or less!)

Photo courtesy of Viator Delve into the vibrant local culture as you join a small group of no more than six fellow food enthusiasts on this nighttime food tour !

Led by an expert guide, wander through the atmospheric streets of Tenma and Kyobashi, where hidden gems and authentic eateries await. Sample a variety of local dishes, savoring the flavors of Osaka's culinary scene while enjoying a few drinks along the way.

Some of the culinary highlights of this tour include Dote Nikomi - Osaka style slow cooked beef in a miso sauce, Tonkatsu - deep friend pork with a delicious twist, kushikatsu skewered cuisine, Tonpeiyaki - another classic Osaka dish made with pork, egg, sauce, and dried fish flakes, and more!

Vegetarian options are also available! These include tofu, cucumber with miso paste, simmered vegetables, and other dishes.

You’ll gain valuable insights into the local food scene and culture as your guide shares fascinating stories and insider tips.

4. Osaka Cuisine Cooking Class

Photo courtesy of Viator Get hands-on with the rich culinary heritage of Japan as part of a traditional cooking class in Osaka. Visitors get the opportunity to join a small group of fellow food enthusiasts and embark on a journey of culinary discovery led by expert instructors.

Learn the art of preparing popular Japanese dishes, including the savory delights of takoyaki (fried balls of batter and octopus) and the hearty comfort of okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

You’ll wash it all down with a soothing warmth of miso soup. Expand your culinary repertoire and gain valuable insights into traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

Indulge in the fruits of your labor as you savor the dishes you've created during the class, tasting the authentic flavors of Japan firsthand.

Don't miss this opportunity to master the art of Japanese cooking in the heart of Osaka. This cooking class promises to delight your senses and ignite your passion for Japanese cuisine.

5. Ramen and Two Types of Gyoza Dumpling Cooking Class

Photo courtesy of Viator Take part in cooking a foodie favorite with this hands-on ramen and gyoza cooking class in Nishinomiya. Join a small group of fellow food enthusiasts for an intimate culinary experience led by expert instructors.

Under the guidance of a skilled ramen cook, you'll learn the secrets of crafting authentic ramen from scratch, mastering the delicate balance of flavors and textures that define this beloved dish.

Discover the art of making two types of gyoza dumplings, perfecting your folding techniques and filling combinations for a satisfying culinary adventure.

With a maximum of six participants, this small-group class ensures personalized attention and ample opportunities to ask questions and refine your skills.

After the cooking session, you'll sit down with your fellow classmates to enjoy the fruits of your labor, savoring the delicious ramen and gyoza you've prepared together.

6. Deep Dive: Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious!

Photo courtesy of Viator Enjoy a deep culinary dive through the bustling streets of Osaka and discover why it's hailed as a food lover's paradise. Visitors on this foodie tour are treated to an insider's perspective on the city's vibrant culinary scene, delving into local food culture rarely experienced by visitors.

Follow your knowledgeable guide to four different foodie locations, including a department store marketplace, the renowned Kuromon Market, Korea Town, and a historic neighborhood brimming with culinary delights.

Along the way, indulge in tastings of regional specialties and surprising delicacies, expanding your palate and immersing yourself in the flavors of Osaka.

Choose between morning or afternoon tours to suit your schedule, allowing for flexibility in your exploration of Osaka's culinary treasures.

You’ll leave this tour with a newfound appreciation for Osaka's rich culinary heritage and the skills to explore its food scene independently.

7. Retro Osaka Street Food Tour: Shinsekai

Photo courtesy of Viator Explore the authentic charm of Osaka's Shinsekai district on our immersive guided tour, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of this retro neighborhood beloved by locals.

Leave the crowds behind and discover the real Osaka as you delve into the fascinating history of Shinsekai, a vibrant area steeped in tradition dating back to the 1900s.

Say goodbye to language barriers as your guide navigates menus and shares insider tips on the best dishes to try at different shops along the way.

From delightful morsels of takoyaki to the addictive bite-sized fun of kushikatsu, there’s a myriad of delights to try!

Whether you're a food enthusiast or a curious traveler seeking an authentic local experience, our guided tour of Shinsekai promises an unforgettable journey through the flavors and traditions of Osaka's beloved neighborhood.

8. Japanese Tea Blending Workshop in Osaka

Photo courtesy of Viator Delve into the wonderful world of Japanese tea and bring back some blends, recipes, and drinks that you’ll want to make every night of the week!

Using traditional Japanese techniques, participants on this tour will learn how to brew tea like a master using locally sourced organic Japanese tea leaves.

But why stop at just brewing tea? With this class, you’ll also learn how to mix the robust flavors of Japanese tea with fruit and syrup. And even get fancy results out of unique “tea cocktail” creations!

This hands-on workshop that takes you through all the steps is a wonderful blend of modern and traditional techniques and will have you experiencing this ancient drink in totally new ways.

You’ll be able to try all of this along with a beautiful selection of Japanese snacks to also sample along the way. This makes this tour a great way to spend an afternoon or downtime day on your Osaka trip!

9. Osaka Sake Tasting with Takoyaki DIY

Photo courtesy of Viator Visitors to Osaka always fall head over heels for the region’s famed street food takoyaki . These delightful bite-sized balls filled with pickled ginger, crunchy tempura bits, and tender octopus are a staple sight in the city.

Now why not elevate the experience and try takoyaki along with some of the most flavorful Japanese sake as part of this tasting experience in Osaka?

To add to the wonderful experience you’ll get to be the one to make your own takoyaki and you’ll even incorporate some less common ingredients such as cheese and Wagyu beef!

The in-house sommelier will help pair your beautiful creations with your favorite sake and we promise that you won’t forget this amazing food experience any time soon!

10. Absolute Osaka Food Tour

Photo courtesy of Viator This guided food tour was designed for both first-time visitors and Japanese cuisine enthusiasts alike. Say goodbye to navigating with a map and let a local guide lead you through the vibrant streets of Dotonbori and Namba, sharing insider tips on the best places to eat in this bustling district.

You'll be visiting four different eateries to sample their offerings and also pass through Osaka landmarks such as Kuromon Market and Hozenji Yokocho, a nostalgic alley lined with izakaya bars.

From savory street snacks to mouthwatering specialties, each stop offers a unique culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds.

Capture unforgettable memories with a photo opportunity of the iconic Glico Man sign, a symbol of Dotonbori's vibrant atmosphere and bustling energy. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this dynamic neighborhood as you explore its hidden culinary gems.

Enjoy the Culinary Delights of the Osaka Area

Osaka has long held the title of “the nation’s kitchen” in the Japanese consciousness. And it continues to hold onto that reputation through to the modern day.

So go out and take advantage of this storied culinary history and seek new and exciting experiences through our partners at Viator.

Main image by Pixta

Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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Osaka Food Tours

We have four unique and internationally awarded tours:

Backstreet Osaka Tour – Deep Osaka Food Tour  – Fisherman’s Market Tour  –  Hotspots & Hidden Gems of Osaka Tour  

Japan’s #1 food tour & “Top 20 Food Tours In The World in 2022” according to Trip Advisor for OUR tour business!

Our goal is to provide an amazing experience… EVERYTIME!

Why book with Osaka Food Tours?

• Our 5 unique tours are more than your standard food tour: mixing history, traditional Osaka food & drinks, fun facts and very local insights.
• We focus on fun and memorable food tours which you will rave about to your friends and family when you get home
• The perfect tours for those who want to become a true Osaka foodie
• We guarantee entertaining and insightful tours, blending historical info with quirky facts about Osaka and Osakan food culture 
• Our guides are enthusiastic, passionate & always add a dose of humor
• You’ll go to authentic eateries and hotspots rarely visited by tourists which you are likely to miss on your own

Our Internationally Awarded Tours

Hotspots & hidden gems osaka tour.

3rd most popular tour Osaka Airbnb (466 reviews) 4.88

・Featured on Britains channel 4 program “Jane McDonald: Lost in Japan”

・Kickstart your Osaka adventure with both the buzzing hubs & secret spots

・Discover the frenetic canal side entertainment district in all its glory

・Modern Osaka meets evocative, traditional hidden alleys

・A comprehensive guide of central Osaka in 3hrs with local recommendations

・Great value: comes with a drink, guidebook, snack & a friendly guide

Deep Osaka Food Tour

 #1 Food Tour in Japan  2022/23 Viator (827 reviews)

・Mentioned on 7th season of the uber famous foodie Netflix show “Someone Feed Phil”

・Eat & drink at some of the most flavorsome, authentic, stalls & restaurants

・Dive into pockets of deep Osaka where street food is alive & brimming

・Check out a world where Osaka cuisine & beverages meets local history

・Taste the entire range at street stalls, markets, izakayas, restaurants etc

・ Get a massive 10 dishes to savor over: Delicous, quality & authentic

Backstreet Osaka Tour (With Dinner)

 #1 Overall Experience in Japan on Trip Advisor  2022/23 (911 reviews)

・Featured on Youtube’s Reformatt show, 1.6 million views 

・Delve into a network of old, twisting, alleys full of charm & character

・Hear historic facts & encounters of a region controlled by the yakuza

・Venture into the intriguing ghetto area with a controversial past

・Explore a unique Taisho Era preserved historical red light district

・One hour at a traditional Izakaya, 5 dishes served. The “soul food” of Osaka din 

Local Fisherman's Market Food Tour

5th most popular tour Osaka Airbnb (358 reviews) 4.85

・Endulge in a myriad of Osaka food specialties:  10-13 unique items. 

・Sensory experience: sights, smells and tastes come alive in these markets

・Enjoy first class seafood to tea to local snacks and dessert sweets

・Come with an empty stomach…a gastronomic experience awaits

・We’ll give a detailed explanation of every dish…know what you eat

Things to know about our tours

• Tours are available everyday of the week. However tours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday fill up quick so please book early
• Our walking tours are not difficult however you will be walking for around 1km-4km depending on the tour so please bring comfortable shoes
• Vegetarian and pescatarian food options are available, however dairy free & vegan options are unfortunately not available 
• Both Alcohol & soft drinks are available. Just let our knowledgeable guides know which drinks you prefer
• If there is unsuitable weather we will notify you 3 hours before your tour starts and refund your pay in full
• Private tours can be booked by filling out the form below to contact the team
• Solo travelers are welcome! Over 50% of people come alone
• Local Japanese and foreign tourists alike are welcome however all tours are in English
• Children are also welcome, however the following tours might not be suitable: Deep Backstreets Osaka tour & Dinner With a Reformed Yakuza

Our professional guides have extensive knowledge of Osakan food, drinks, history and culture while adding a touch of humour and personality to each tour

Latest News

Our Osaka Food Tour on Netflix’s “Someone Feed Phil”

We received #1 & #2 experience in the whole of Japan, 2022

2 page article in Sydney Morning Herald

Contact Us: Osaka Food Tours, Inc.

Did you want a Private Tour? It’s available for all our tours. Did you have any other questions?

• Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour
• Osaka Food & Drinks Tour
• Hotspots & Hidden Gems Tour
• Kuromon Fisherman’s Market Tour
• Others / Private Tour

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I Had Some of the Best Meals of My Life in Osaka — Here’s Where to Eat and Drink in Japan’s Most Exciting Food City

Tokyo and Kyoto might get all the buzz, but Osaka's food scene is top notch.

Andrea Fazzari

Through an unblinking black eyeball, a 20-foot-high scarlet octopus ogles my lunch.

She lords over the second floor of a restaurant in Osaka’s Shinsekai quarter, a pastiche of Paris and Coney Island erected in the early 1900s, neglected by the midcentury, and respected today for its retro-futurist architecture and first-class fast food. Ursula-san already clutches takoyaki (octopus fritters) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in her white-suckered tentacles but, unsurprisingly for a native Osakan, she’s still hungry.

Between us is a checkerboard lane and a monsoon. Seated by a rain-lashed window, my guide, Noriyuki Ikegami, and I are safe inside Tsuruhashi Fugetsu, a chain specializing in another Osakan treasure, okonomiyaki. With the muscle memory and blasé demeanor of someone who has done this ten thousand times, our server dumps a bowl of shaved cabbage and batter onto the hot, hissing grill built into our table. Over the next 20 minutes, she periodically reappears to add shrimp, steak, and pork; flip the pancake and paint it with mayo and a sweet, tangy brown sauce; fry up a sunny-side egg to slide on top; and finally bury it all in dancing bonito flakes. Okonomiyaki is a delicious mess. As is Osaka.

You can’t just call Japan’s third-largest city a food town. Two syllables cannot encompass the diversity and quality of the cooking, from hot and saucy takoyaki on the street to tradition-steeped kaiseki at the Michelin-starred Nishitenma Nakamura, where chef-owner Akemi Nakamura tenderizes squid sashimi with knife strokes as delicate as calligraphy. Osakans dine with athletic fervor and passion, and everyone I meet wants to know — demands to know, really — the same thing: “What have you eaten?” I tell them:

—The Netflix-famous Izakaya Toyo’s blowtorched tuna cheeks, which make for good TV but butane-flavored tuna; my meal is saved by chain-smoking chef-owner Toyoji Chikumoto’s zany showmanship and his chutoro maki rolled up as casually as a yoga mat with gutsy tears of shiso .

—Raspberry cake cloaked in seed-speckled glaze, a plush fig muffin, several single-origin chocolate bars, and an Ethiopian pour-over at Yard, a sleek café and cocoa lab on the edge of peaceful Tennoji Park.

—Steamed monkfish liver, craggy fried chicken, and wasabi-pickled mountain yam at Sumiyaki Shoten yo Ohatsutenjin, a rambunctious izakaya down a nocturnal alley near Umeda Station, washed down with passion-fruit-sake spritzes.

Add too much okonomiyaki to the list. Ikegami eyes the second helping on my plate and gently reminds me, “We have a lot more to eat.”

Osakans dine with athletic fervor and passion, and everyone I meet wants to know — demands to know, really — the same thing: ‘What have you eaten?’

Here’s what you’ve probably heard about Osaka — if you’ve heard anything at all, given Tokyo’s and Kyoto’s decades of tourism dominance. It’s chaotic. It’s gritty. It’s not very pretty. None of that is untrue, particularly in and around Shinsekai. The name means New World, an optimistic prophecy for a Western-inspired future epitomized by Tsutenkaku Tower, which at 210 feet was the tallest building in Asia when it was constructed in 1912. But a fire destroyed it during World War II, and the new world began a slow slide into an underworld. Today, Shinsekai is rough around the edges but perfectly safe, though it does help to have a guide like Ikegami, who leads culinary tours of the area for Arigato Travel. 

Shaking our umbrellas, we push into Yamatoya, a hideout populated by pachinko pit bosses and ladies with soft packs of cigarettes clutched in sharp sets of nails. Yamatoya specializes in pressed and square-cut box sushi, traditionally made with thrifty cuts that could be cooked, preserved, or treated to last in the lunch pails of the laborers who flocked to Shinsekai in 1956 to reconstruct Tsutenkaku.

Ikegami orders the mackerel, and within minutes, chef Doi-san passes the sushi across the counter. It looks like a mosaic of iridescent tiles and hits with comic-book ZAPS! and POWS! of vinegar and brine — flavors insistent enough to, however briefly, rouse those workers from an endless grind of hard days. Once the “new” tower was complete and employment in Shinsekai evaporated, many of the construction workers became homeless. The acclaimed photographer Daido Moriyama grew up in Osaka around that time; so iconic was the rebuilt Tsutenkaku, he would later put it on the cover of his 2016 book, Osaka, a blinding white rocket against a nighttime sky.

I find that book in the library of the Flag, a boutique hotel in Shinsaibashi. “I hated the smell of the town, the way people talked,” Moriyama wrote in “Dark Picture,” a 1996 essay republished in Osaka. “Typically, I was enamored of Tokyo, interested only in its illusory smartness depicted in songs and books and movies, and the gap between that and the image of the Osaka I was actually in touch with was so extreme that Osaka seemed disagreeable.”

“Dark Picture” brightens into a love letter to a complicated muse, a city that luxuriates in, and then subverts, its own stereotypes: here a sketchy alley, there a Louis Vuitton. This entertaining split personality shines when seen on foot, and with the Kita (north) and Minami (south) areas of the central tourist corridor mostly following a grid, Osaka is extremely easy to navigate. When I’m not hungry, I walk. And walk and walk and walk, until I’m hungry again.

Related: The Best, Worst, and Cheapest Times to Visit Japan

That’s my post-Shinsekai dinner plan. The Flag is around the corner from the humming Shinsaibashi shotengai (shopping street) that funnels a river of pedestrians onto Osaka’s most famous photo op, the Ebisubashi bridge, and onward to Dotonburi, or, as I like to call it, the San Antonio River Walk on cocaine. Sightseeing riverboats glide beneath the bridge, their passengers gawking at the neon canyon above. The electric billboards stare back, reflecting on the water in shimmering distortions of ice blue, hot pink, ultraviolet. Ramps and stairs stitch the bridge and upper streets of Dotonburi to the crowded cafés and convenience stores along the canal. People everywhere. Lights everywhere. Food. Everywhere. Tonkotsu ramen, takoyaki, bubble waffles, matcha crêpes, Kobe steaks — I want nothing, but I want it all. The feeling encapsulates the Osakan expression kuidaore, which means “to eat oneself to ruin.”

Tomofumi Fujimaru waits at the Andō train station. Skinny jeans. Ivory turtleneck. Black Range Rover.

It takes 30 minutes to get from Osaka to the wellspring of its new-wave wine scene. The train trundles out of downtown and backward in time, piercing skyscrapers shrinking to concrete apartment blocks to single homes with vegetable gardens and bedsheets on clotheslines. “Eighty years ago, Osaka was the number one grape producer in Japan,” Fujimaru says as we zip through Kashiwara, where the hills outside of town once housed 119 wineries. Very few remain.

The 46-year-old Fujimaru is considered the consigliere of natural wine in Japan, a country in thrall to the category, if not to its own wine-making abilities. “A lot of people say foreign wine is superior and that Osakan wine is tasteless or really sweet,” he says. “I wanted to make wine for a meal, dry and fully matured.”

Related: 25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan

Fujimaru parks on the side of a switchback, gets out of the car, hops the metal barricade, and gestures for me to follow him into the forest. A short walk brings us to a clearing, where a fairy-tale tunnel disappears into a jumble of bamboo. On the other side, we emerge onto a path that long ago crumbled into a ravine. A narrow metal plank forms a makeshift bridge across the 10-foot gap. Fujimaru trots across, landing in one of nine vineyards that provide grapes for the 15,000 bottles he produces annually of his cult label, Cuvée Papilles.

Each meal in Osaka seems to be better than the last. Nothing will top that pasta, I think as I walk to Yohaku, a new bakery-by-day, restaurant-by-night I found on Instagram.

What this formerly abandoned vineyard lacks in access, it makes up with sunny southwestern exposure, cool nights, vine-friendly sand-and-clay soil, and a magnificent view of a miniature village in the distance framed by an amphitheater of unruly evergreens. The field slopes down gently, giving the sense that if you cleared the wild growth and tucked yourself into a burlap sack, you could glide all the way down to the Yamato River, as if you were on an amusement park super-slide.

Fujimaru touches the trellised vines. “Before, this was all Delaware,” he says, referring to the American variety that makes up 70 percent of the grapes grown in Osaka Prefecture. “But this place is good for Merlot.” We’re between harvest and first frost, so while the Merlot clusters have since journeyed down the mountain and toward the city, their papery leaves remain, all chartreuse and amber, curling in on themselves like old sticky notes.

We follow the fruit’s reverse commute to Shimanouchi Fujimaru, the first urban winery in Japan. Fujimaru’s second in command, Atsushi Tanaka, shows me around the first floor of this nondescript building, where first-of-their-kind experiments include Delaware grapes macerating in rotund earthenware vessels. Then we head upstairs to the cozy restaurant for house-made fettuccine with sweet potatoes and allspice-laced braised beef. A strange and pleasant grittiness runs through the pasta. “The pomace from the wine making,” Tanaka says, explaining that the grape seeds and skins are dried, ground, and folded into the dough like coarsely cracked peppercorns. This vineyard spice brings nuttiness and tannins and connects the life cycle of the wine in a closed loop.

Tanaka pours a cascade of Cuvée Papilles Osaka Red. Composed primarily of Fujimaru’s Merlot gamble, the blend is a vivacious geyser of blackberry and plum. Some wine pairings lean in to their food. This one is all contrasts, with the wine’s wild-yeast edge, energetic juiciness, and savage acidity countering the sonorous richness of the pasta like a DJ mashing up Cardi B and Luther Vandross.

Each meal in Osaka seems to be better than the last. Nothing will top that pasta, I think as I walk to Yohaku, a new bakery-by-day, restaurant-by-night I found on Instagram. Just inside the shoji doors, bronzed canelés, boxy banana gâteaux, and white-chocolate-and-yuzu sablés shine under glass. On the floor, three empty wine bottles communicate Yohaku’s liquid affinities. The room is dark, but I can make out the exuberant cerise and viridian watercolors on the Osaka Red label. Much as I’d happily crush another bottle, I try a musky orange Alsatian Gewürztraminer and settle in at 33-year-old Yoji Arakawa’s 10-seat counter.

Osaka’s personality is chill by Japan standards, but its artisans share the countrywide attention to craft and detail, whether making soba, throwing pottery, or brewing matcha

Arakawa is among the young chefs who’ve cooked in Tokyo and abroad but decided to do their own thing in Osaka, which is the hometown of his wife and business partner, Tomoko Arakawa, a Paris-trained pâtissier. “In Osaka you can eat the same level of food at about sixty percent of the prices in Tokyo and Kyoto, and customers are strict about quality and price,” Arakawa tells me. “Shops that are low quality or not worth the cost do not last long, so in Osaka you can be satisfied no matter where you eat.”

That tracks. Yohaku, however, inhabits another plane. Creative joie de vivre, can-do scrap, and yes-chef precision underpin Arakawa’s menu, which expresses Japanese ingredients through French technique and fermentation. He cooks every single dish himself, in a workspace smaller than a New York studio kitchenette. “Until now I have worked in large restaurants with more than 15 chefs. I want to make a simpler store,” he says. “Since I’m working alone, I’m limited in what I can do, but I cherish the ideas that are born only when there are restrictions and rules.”

Man, those ideas. My stool is inches from their execution, close enough to feel the heat when Arakawa brûlées reef squid to stack with fresh pear and foie gras confit on an altar of sous-vide leeks, close enough to hear a half-dozen vacuum-sealed bags exhale when he slits them open to furnish an epic pickle plate. With all of Arakawa’s equipment and mise en place within reach, it seems like only his upper body moves, like a car-dealership inflatable dressed in an indigo tunic. He fits a wedge of sudachi on the rim of a bowl bearing tagliolini, matsutakes, conger eel, and pink shiso blossoms and slides it across the counter, gesturing for me to squirt the citrus over the pasta. The simultaneously fatty and luminous result presents an alternate history in which Japanese chefs invented beurre blanc.

Simple pleasures (house-baked rye, a Hokkaido cheese plate with fermented pineapple) complement the big swings. Sprightly yuzu-pineapple kombucha and silky lattes complement the wine service, and dessert sees fat amethyst figs sunk into vanilla-bean rice pudding, crowned with the palest jade egg of wasabi ice cream and cilantro flowers. The canelés follow me back to the hotel.

Nothing will top this, I think. Of course, I’m wrong.

Sukuna Ueda beats the matcha with his bamboo whisk, peers deep into the frothy liquid like it’s going to tell his future, and shakes his blue-beanie-capped head. “I’m sorry,” he sighs. “I’m going to do it over.”

Osaka’s personality is chill by Japan standards, but its artisans share the countrywide attention to craft and detail, whether making soba, throwing pottery, or brewing matcha at Wad, a stylishly austere café in the west end of Minamisenba. Ueda is the ochaban, head of tea service. After studying jazz in San Francisco, he returned to his native Osaka with the desire to “delve more into Japanese culture.” Tea became his medium.

When you order matcha at Wad, Ueda invites you to pick your bowl; the selection rotates based on which artists have just shown in the upstairs gallery. My vessel has a sapphire lip and air bubbles suspended in its curves and looks like it belongs on a coral reef. “Good choice,” Ueda says, then gets to work preparing my matcha, twice.

Related: Why I Spend My Summers Biking Around Osaka

I lift my bowl with both hands, inhale, and sip the grassy, ethereal tea. The experience is borderline eucharistic, and I give the matcha its due reverence before jumping into another kind of tea ceremony. Wad makes its own uji syrup ( uji is a type of matcha) for a can’t-miss dessert. The kakigori, an emerald mountain of shaved ice, arrives looking like a scale model of St. Lucia’s Gros Piton. The fine fluffy crystals drenched in sweet (but not too sweet) syrup are incredible. Could it be the best thing I’ve eaten in Osaka?

I consider that question at my second hotel, Japan’s first W, a mirrored onyx Tadao Ando tower on Midosuji, Osaka’s Fifth Avenue. From my 27th-floor suite, I study the silent silver stitches of southbound traffic migrating through the skyscrapers before bed, where instead of counting sheep I count snacks: perfect latte from standing-room-only indie roaster Mel; magenta mochi with a juicy raspberry center at Mochisho Shizuku, where the traditional wagashi confectioneries resemble precious stones; a supple vanilla Swiss roll in the company of a hundred houseplants at Pyroc Coffee & Bar. 

All these delicacies live in Shinmachi, the W’s backyard and “the very best area of Osaka,” according to Masuhiro “Julian” Yokota, whom I find behind the counter at the micro-bakery Yotsubashi Pain. Shinmachi has always been a place to buy and sell. From the early 1600s through World War II, when it was Osaka’s red-light district, the commodity was sex. Then came women’s wear, real estate, plastics, and more when corporations moved in and erected mid-rise office buildings. And today there are eccentric rubber stamps, vintage Starter jackets, and Yokota’s furutsu sando, the specialty at Yotsubashi Pain.

Like most Japanese kids, Yokota grew up with this trinity of fruit, cream, and white bread, and wanted to make a “more delicious and lovely” version for his nostalgic fellow millennials. Each weekend, he lines the case with vibrant glow-ups: grapes and coconut-milk cream; pomegranate-beaded chocolate cream on cocoa bread; and mango, passion-fruit jam, and whipped yogurt cream cheese. Late afternoon, I snag the last sandwich, Earl Grey cream inlaid with half-moons of glistening tangerine. The sweet acid of the citrus cushioned in the airy dairy gives big Creamiscle energy, with a grown-up whisper of fragrant bitterness. The house-baked white bread is so soft I leave fingerprints in it, then devour the evidence. I think this could be the best thing I’ve eaten in Osaka. 

In the end, it’s Yokota who sabotages his own victory. He is the one who recommends Noodle Fishtons, less a hole than a crack in the wall. A hulking vending machine takes my order and spits out a ticket, which I pass to a cook, who directs me to a stool at the end of the counter, by the bathroom, to marinate in the white noise of the lunch rush: eager slurping, the hollow tink of plastic spoons on ceramic bowls, and the microwave’s intermittent beep. “If you would like to reheat, please feel free to ask the staff,” says one of many notecards laminated and posted around the ramen-ya . Requests another, “Please refrain from eating while looking at your mobile phone.” I feel attacked.

Fishtons’s thing is tsukemen, or dipping ramen — noodles that are eaten after being submerged in a separate bowl of broth. They do about half a dozen styles, including the version I order, flavored with barrel-aged soy and aimori (red vinegar). It comes on a tray in a constellation of bowls. The largest contains marbled pink slices of roasted pork folded over two types of noodles: thin, soft yellow ones made from Japanese white flour, and thicker, darker ones made from nutty Kyoto wheat. The next-largest bowl holds the dipping sauce, a profound brown elixir of pork and fish stocks, strips of braised pork belly, scallion, and powerful soy sauce aged the old way, in timber casks. Condiments fill the other saucers: briny kombu tea, fresh sudachi , spicy miso, Okinawan sea salt, wasabi, and fruity-sharp aimori . You mix and match to create different sensations and flavors. I collect some noodles and pork, splash them in the vinegar, plunge them into the broth, then my mouth, and depart from my body.

Have you ever eaten something that wholly possesses you? I mean muscles-spasming, speaking-in-tongues, call-the-exorcist possession. In that moment, in that restaurant, I don’t know the words I’m forming to describe the tsukemen — the springiness of its dueling noodles, the luscious fat rippling through the pork, the broth’s audacious acidity and umami, as inescapable as a riptide. I do know that whatever small coil of my brain remains autonomous has made its final commendation: the aimori tsukemen at Noodle Fishtons is the best thing I’ve eaten in Osaka.

My ecstatic babble draws an interruption from a cook, who seems both irritated and alarmed. “Excuse me,” he hiss-whispers. “Can you please be quiet?”

About the food in Osaka? Not a chance.

Where to Stay

Hotel The Flag

Stylish minimalism in the shopping haven of Shinsaibashi.

The slick brand’s first hotel in Japan. Generously sized suites have incredible views and Nintendo-wallpapered closets.

Where to Eat

Izakaya Toyo: A ton of waiting and a ton of fun, with great food (except for the torched tuna cheeks made famous by Netflix).

Mel Coffee Roasters : Perfect coffee drinks on a busy Shinmachi corner.

Mochisho Shizuku : Like a modern art gallery for traditional Japanese sweets.

Nishitenma Nakamura: This cerebral, seasonal Michelin-starred kaiseki seats just a handful a night, which means reservations are essential. 81-6-7506-8218

Noodle Fishtons : Grab a seat at the counter for transcendent tsukemen (dipping ramen).

Pyroc Coffee & Bar :   This place doesn’t know if it wants to be a café or a greenhouse, which is not a problem at all.

Shimanouchi Fujimaru : The first urban winery in Japan, with an excellent upstairs restaurant that pours proprietary natural wines.

Sumiyaki Shoten yo Ohatsutenjin : From happy hour to early morning, this place rocks with feisty sake and shochu cocktails.

Tsuruhashi Fugetsu : Hearty okonomiyaki at branches all over Osaka; the Shinsekai outpost looks like a Wendy’s from the 1980s (a compliment!).

Wad : A masterful tea program and towering bowls of kakigori (shaved ice) that will blow up your social media feeds. 

Yamatoya : Colorful Shinsekai characters show up for box sushi and other Osakan favorites.

Yard Coffee & Craft Chocolate : Third-wave coffee and alluring confections (including house-brand chocolate bars) on the edge of Tennoji Park.

Yohaku : Baking by day and cooking by night in a tiny kitchen that radiates creativity and ingenuity.

Yotsubashi Pain : The signature item at this offshoot of famed Osaka pâtisserie Le Sucré-Coeur is the fruit-and-cream sandwich.

How to Book

Arigato Travel:  This company specializes in insightful food-focused and customized tours for small groups and individuals in various Osaka neighborhoods. I took a walking tour with Arigato; the company can also plan multiday itineraries.

A version of this story first appeared in the July 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "The Hunger Games. "

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Osaka Food Guide

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

We spent a fortnight in Japan’s kitchen to prepare the ultimate Osaka food guide with our favorite Osaka street food and some not-to-miss Osaka restaurants. It’s a tough job, but somebody has to do it!

After eating our way through Southeast Asia for three months, we ended our recent Asia sojourn with a bang by spending 12 days in Osaka. We had high hopes for the city affectionately known as Japan’s kitchen and were only disappointed when it was time for us to leave for the next leg of our journey to taste the world.

Let’s just get it out in the open – we love Osaka. To outsiders of Japan, Osaka lives in the shadow of Megacity Tokyo and historic Kyoto. The food options in these cities are great – some of the best in the world.

Osakans take their food love to an even higher level of obsession with the concept of “kuidaore” where people literally eat until they drop. Yes, food is that important in Osaka and it shouts to be eaten from every street corner vendor and hidden noodle shop.

Discover the best food to eat in Japan .

Many people visit Japan to see the temples, the geishas and the castles. While we enjoy those sites, we love day-to-day modern Japanese culture even more.

From the giant railway complexes littered with 10 story department stores to the tiny ramen shops that are tucked away deep in the drab basements of those very same train stations, modern Japan is a feast that never lets up.

Osaka is everything we love about Japan – wonderful people who literally walk you to their favorite restaurant around the block, long shopping streets that seem to never end and dimly lit, restaurant filled alleys.

Tour Idea Book a 3-hour Osaka Food Tour where you can taste a variety of local Osaka food favorites.

With such an intense culinary culture, Osaka is a city with a wide variety of eating options ranging from Japanese street food on Dontonbori Street to fine dining at Kappa restaurants. Some Osaka restaurants serve beef from nearby Kobe while other Osaka menus feature typical Japanese favorites like sushi, ramen and udon.

Discover 40 of the best noodle dishes in the world .

Many of these restaurants are lit with big neon signs. Others are Osaka hidden gems, hiding in plain sight. They’re all the reason that ‘Japan’s Kitchen’ is one of the best food cities in the world .

The challenge isn’t finding things to eat in Osaka but rather deciding where to eat in Osaka with so many great choices. This is why we traversed the city with an Osaka map to create a comprehensive Osaka eating guide with our favorite Osaka foods and drinks.

So, without further ado, here are our contenders for the best eats in Osaka…

Osaka Food Guide | What and Where to Eat in Osaka

Are you wondering what to eat in Osaka? We tackled the tasty challenge of creating our Osaka Japan dining guide through a combination of advance research of how Osaka eats and on-the-ground reconnaissance where we scoured the internet, talked to locals (through the extraordinary power of Google Translate) and followed our noses.

36 meals and many snacks later, we are proud to present an Osaka guide that is perfect for visitors and also has a surprise or two for residents, even those with an Osaka food blog.

Osaka Street Food

Osaka is infamous for its snack food. Streets like Dontonbori and Ota-Road are teeming with vendors selling a myriad of fried treats, and some of the best restaurants in Osaka Japan are actually street food vendors.

While “researching” the best food in Osaka, we found many favorites plus some new treats like the Pombashi rice dog , a hot dog encased in a fried Japanese rice batter. We also discovered that the Japanese love to reinvent treats with fried batter as witnessed by the strange batter-fried heads pictured above.

If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Osaka that won’t break the bank, we recommend starting on the street. Not only is Osaka street food tasty, but it’s also some of the best cheap food in Osaka.

Osaka first hit our radar as the home of takoyaki. For the unfamiliar, tayokai are little dough balls stuffed with octopus and topped with savory sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed and katsuobushi flakes.

We love popping the steaming hot dumplings into our mouths for the quintessential Osaka street food experience. We couldn’t find a way to eat them without scorching our tongues, but that approach seems to be the only way to truly enjoy the gooey, rich flavored yet chewy snack.

Video Alert Watch our Osaka Street Food Video to see us eat takoyaki and okonomiyaki at Osaka’s Kuromon Ichibi Market.

Okonomiyaki

A close contender to takoyaki for snack food king of Osaka, okonomiyaki is a savory pancake with cabbage, meat and savory toppings. More like a pizza than a pancake, okonomiyaki is an ideal late-night snack after an evening at the bars.

Pro Tip Okonomiyaki is the perfect snack after a night of drinking. Luckily, Osaka seems to have okonomiyaki stands on practically every corner.

Fish-shaped and stuffed with fillings like red bean paste and custard, taiyaki are tasty little cakes that are perfect snacks for Osaka residents on the go. The sweet, red bean filling is tasty, but we found the crunchy tail to be the best part.

Pro Tip If you’re looking for fun food to eat in Osaka, start with taiyaki.

Okonomiyaki Taiyaki

Trust the Japanese to combine two great snack foods into an even greater snack food. The folks at Kogasin created the Okonomiyaki Taiyaki to create a fish-shaped sandwich with cabbage and meat in the middle. Or, as we like to call them – crazy fun pancakes.

Before it permanently closed for business, Kogasin served a tasty bacon and egg flavor that exploded with yolk on the first bite – state of the art Osaka snack food at its best.

Video Alert Watch our Okonomiyaki Taiyaki Video to see us eat this local Osaka food.

Tako Tamago

On the odd occasion when we eat lollipops in the USA, we choose among flavors like cherry and lemon. In Osaka, however, our lollipop of choice is glazed baby octopus stuffed with quail eggs.

We first tried this eclectic version of meat-on-a-stick at the Kuromon Market, and then we tried it again the following week at the same spot. In case yo’re wondering, we liked it just as much the second time.

Tour Idea Book a Kuromon Market Food Walking Tour in Osaka. This small group tour takes two hours and includes samples in the Kuromon Market and stops on Dontonbori Street.

Tamago Katsu Sando

Considering all the snack food we ate in Osaka, we never expected one of our favorites to be a breaded egg sandwich. Yes, a breaded egg sandwich .

Boxed like a gift for your significant other or favorite Osaka foodie, the inside of the tamago katsu sando at Kitashinchi Sand mystified us with its lushly scrambled egg center surrounded by a crispy crust. As we bit into the savory tamago sandwich, we marveled at how the tiny Osaka restaurant could create such an oozy center while achieving a deliciously crispy golden brown crust.

Hananoki is located at 1-21-33 Nipponbashi Chuo-ku Osaka, Japan. Kogasin was located at 1 Chome-18-13 Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, Japan. It is now permanently closed. Kitashinchi Sand is located at 530-0002 Ōsaka-fu, Ōsaka-shi, Kita-ku, Sonezakishinchi, 1 Chome−1−2−11, アレーナ 堂島, Osaka, Japan. Naruto Taiyaki is located at >5-7-1 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan. Pombashi Rice Dogs was located on Oto-Road in Osaka, Japan. It has permanently closed.

Osaka Sushi

Since we adored sushi in Tokyo during our first trip to Japan , we were pleased to find that the sushi in Osaka is just as good. In some ways, it’s actually better.

Osaka sushi is less expensive and more accessible compared to sushi sold in the bigger city to the east. We ate lots of sushi in Osaka, even some served on a conveyor belt, though our favorite Osaka sushi spots were at markets.

Maguroya Kurogin at the Kuromon Ichiba, a central market for Osaka shopping, sells some of the world’s freshest tuna. You can witness the fish being sliced all day and served in luscious pink blocks or chirashi-style topped with popping good salmon eggs over rice. If you’re lucky enough to get a seat at the stand’s small counter, you may even be offered free slices of otoro. Do not turn this offer down .

We first encountered Kizu-Ichiba fish market just south of Namba through a wrong turn while walking to our favorite coffee shop. Once there, it only seemed logical that a down to earth sushi counter like Maruyoshi would sit at the market’s entrance. This is the kind of shop where market employees sit, cigarettes dangling from their mouths, as they enjoy some of the freshest, most affordable sushi in town.

Do not miss the gargantuan eel nigiri. Maruyoshi’s fatty, savory eel will make you think twice about what your favorite fish may be on a sushi plate. As we say in our video, this is two-bite sushi even though somehow Daryl managed to fit the luscious eel rice combo in his mouth in one big bite.

Video Alert Watch our Osaka Sushi Video to see us eat sushi some of the best sushi in Osaka at Maguroya Kurogin and Maruyoshi.

Kuromon Market is located at 2 Chome-3-2 Nipponbashi, Chuo, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0073, Japan. Kizu-Ichiba fish market is located at the Kizu-Ichiba fish market in Osaka, Japan.

Osaka Ramen

Ramen in Osaka is like Po Boys in New Orleans . Ask five locals for their favorite spots for this Japanese food staple, and you’ll likely get five different answers. As for us, we have three different answers for a question about the best ramen in Osaka, so we’ve included all three in this Osaka restaurant guide.

Read our Osaka ramen guide .

Once you find 7.5 Hz under one of the many nondescript modern buildings in Umeda, you will be rewarded with takaida-kei ramen – thick, hearty, al dente noodles served in an addictively salty beef broth along with a soft-boiled egg topped with large scallions. Ramen at this quiet counter is serious business, and the energy-packed noodles will satisfy your appetite for days.

We developed a love for Hakata Ippudo ramen from the moment we arrived in Osaka, and that love would not wane during the duration of our visit. Sure, Ippudo has locations throughout the world, but Osaka’s Ippudo stands out for its Shiromaru Classic with vermicelli-like al dente noodles served in a rich porky broth and the bolognese-like Karaka with ground pork in a broth so spicy that even Mindi was impressed.

Discover more of the best soups in the world .

Sometimes you just need to ask a local for food advice in Japan. In our case, that question resulted in one of the friendly staffers from nearby Brooklyn Roasting Company (see below) guiding us on a two-block walk on a brisk Osaka evening to Ryukishin . Once there, we noticed the line snaking from the ramen counter’s front door – always a good sign.

Pro Tip Ryukishin tonkotsu ramen is as good one would expect from a highly acclaimed ramen shop, but we STRONGLY recommend the spicy chili potage ramen – it’s #3 on the shop’s ticket machine. This ramen reminded us of chicken pot pie in its consistency but with a chili-inflected, spicy twist. If you’re hungry in Namba area, go here first!

7.5 Hz is located at 1 Chome-2-2 Umeda, Kita-ku, Ōsaka, Japan. Hakata Ippudo has locations around the world. We ate at the Namba location at <3-1-17 Nanbanaka, Naniwa-ku, Osaka, Japan. Ryukishin is located at 2-10-25 Nanbanaka, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan.

Yamato, a tiny udon shop located at the Kizu-Ichiba fish market, serves one thing and serves it well. We first noticed this tiny gem when we were eating sushi at Maruyoshi just next door. Actually, we couldn’t help but notice Yamato because the line outside was literally ou the door and down the sidewalk.

We understood the line when we went to Yamato for our very last Osaka meal which we ate before flying to London via Helsinki . The restaurant opens at 5 am.

The price for a bowl of udon seemed high at around $15 US at the time of our visit, but not really considering that the bowl is big enough to share and is loaded with tempura and perfect strands of udon. Though the staff didn’t speak any English during our meal, service was both quick and friendly.

Yamato is located at the Kizu-Ichiba fish market in Osaka, Japan.

Yakiniku (Grilled Meat)

The word yakiniku literally translates to grilled meat, but that’s just part of the Osaka dining story when it comes to meat. Yakiniku is THE way to eat kobe beef in Osaka. A yakiniku dinner involves grilling meat on a tableside gridiron in a style more typical in Korean cities like Seoul and Busan .

Food is not cheap at an Osaka steakhouse, but Yakiniku is an essential way to eat in Osaka. It’s also a fun way to dine with friends on a Saturday night, which is what we did at a restaurant called Tsuruichi.

Pro Tip Like many types of produce in Japan, lettuce is oddly expensive. Be careful – plates with a few pieces of lettuce cost the equivalent of $6 USD each during our dinner. Ouch!

Tsuruichi is located at 3-3 Shimoajiharacho Tennoji-ku Osaka, Japan.

Osaka Kushikatsu

Why eat hamburgers in Osaka when you can eat katsu, deep fried chicken cutlet strips served over rice? If you love meat on a stick, then you’ll love kushikatsu which takes meat on a stick to the next level by frying it and serving it with a dipping sauce.

Katsu is available all over the city. However, most kushikatsu shops are in the Shinsekai neighborhood near the Spa World onsen.

Discover more of the best fried chicken in the world .

Osaka Drinks

We were surprised to find a thriving Osaka bar scene and even more surprised to find third wave coffee shops. The following are our favorite spots to drink in Osaka.

Cocktails, Beer and Japanese Oddities

It’s a known fact that the Japanese love kitsch. This love is visible in anime and manga art, at maid cafes and at Mr. Kanso, a chain of quirky bars that serve a variety of food from cans. Ironically, the beer is served from a tap. Go figure.

We were intrigued by the concept but were less enamored by delicacies like canned scallops. It’s a fun stop during a night out in Osaka, though we recommend sticking with beer. You can eat great Osaka must eat food like ramen and sushi later.

Video Alert Watch our Mr. Kanso Video to see us eat canned food in Osaka.

Mr. Kanso has multiple locations in Japan.

Craft Beer in Osaka

Lager beer is cheap and plentiful in Osaka. Though it goes well with food like ramen and sushi, sometimes we want something more.

Luckily, the Osaka craft beer scene is thriving at happening bars like Beer Belly. Expect great Japanese pub grub (think raw duck tataki and fried camembert cheese) in addition to well-crafted beer, a true win-win situation, when you visit this Osaka pub.

Beer Belly is located at 1 Chome-1-31 Tosabori, Nishi Ward, Osaka, Japan.

Osaka Coffee Houses

One of our first priorities whenever we arrive in a city is to find a good coffee bar, preferably one of the third wave variety. These coffee bars not only serve as our sources of liquid energy but also as workspaces and ways to connect with the community.

We discovered Brooklyn Roasting Company on our first full day in Osaka – we liked it so much that we returned most of the following 11 days of our visit. This coffee bar has it all – good coffee, solid pastries, plenty of electrical outlets and friendly people on both sides of the counter.

Interestingly, two of our favorite Osaka experiences happened at this coffee bar. The first was watching a young couple view our YouTube videos and laugh at all the right places. The second was when a friendly barista walked us to Ryukishin (see above.)

Brooklyn Roasting Company has multiple locations. We frequented the original Namba location at 1 Chome-1-21 Shikitsuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0012, Japan.

Vending Machine Beverages

There’s no excuse for being thirsty in Osaka because practically every block has at least one vending machine, and 99% of the vending machines sell drinks like iced coffee, juice and soda. With so many vending machines selling the same products, the best vending machine is the closest vending machine.

Vending machines are located all over Osaka.

Frequently Asked Questions

Don’t miss eating Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki and Kushikatsu as well as Sushi, Sashimi and Ramen when you visit Osaka.

Osaka restaurants run the gamut from cheap eats to fine dining. Prices range accordingly.

No. Tipping is not necessary in Japan.

Anthony Bourdain visited Daruma, Gosakudon, Jiyuken, Kani Doraku and Takonotetsu (Pizza Ball House) while filming the first season of N o R eservations.

People typically eat dinner between 6pm and 8pm in Osaka.

Reservations are necessary at better restaurants in Osaka. However, you should be able to walk into casual restaurants and ramen shops though you may need to wait in a queue. Worst case scenario, there’s always street food.

Osaka has 94 Michelin-starred restaurant including three 3-star restaurants, ten 2-star restaurants and 81 1-star restaurants.

Things to Do in Osaka

Wondering what to do in Osaka ? We won’t judge you is you spend your entire Osaka trip eating. If you want to do more, consider the following Osaka activities:

• See the major Osaka attractions via the Osaka Wonder Bus and Cruise .
• Have a blast at Universal Studios Japan with a one-day ticket.
• Experience local culture at a Samurai Cafe show.
• Get fishy at the Osaka Aquarium .

Osaka Planning Checklist

• Buy discounted travel insurance from Heymondo .
• Find a great Osaka hotel via Booking.com , Expedia or Hotels.com .
• Find an apartment in Osaka with a kitchen .
• Buy a universal travel adaptor from Amazon so you can charge your laptop, cell phone and camera in Asia.
• Buy an Osaka travel guide from Amazon so that you don’t miss any bites or sites.
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a fun Osaka tour with GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book a tasty Osaka food experience .

Hungry for More in Asia?

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Funding We self-funded our trip to Osaka and paid for all food featured in this guide.. Special Thanks We thank the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau for their research assistance prior to our trip.

Original Publication Date: November 18, 2016

Thursday 6th of February 2020

Hi there! Any idea what time maruyoshi opens in the mornings?

Friday 7th of February 2020

We really don't know but we do know that they open early, probably about the same hour as the fish market. You could check in person or get someone who knows Japanese to call.

Thursday 12th of December 2019

love your post! thank you for posting about Osaka!

Trefor Davies

Saturday 17th of February 2018

Heh there. The spelling is way off on a lot of the restaurant and food items making this guide almost useless for actually finding the places you suggest. It’s Tamago Katsu Sando at Kitashinchi Sand if anyone wants to actually find it..

Saturday 24th of February 2018

Thanks for the feedback and updated information regarding Tamago Katusando. We take accuracy seriously on our website and are glad you brought the issue to our attention.

Monday 3rd of April 2017

I have been dying to go to Osaka for a foodie adventure. We hunt down most of what you have on this list in the States the best we can, but can't wait to try the real deal in Japan. Japanese food is amazing, and I hear Osaka has some of the best.

Wednesday 5th of April 2017

You will love Osaka when you get there. The food is indeed amazing!

Anita Hendrieka

Wednesday 23rd of November 2016

There is seriously so much good food in Japan. I spent 10 days in Tokyo and didn't get to make Osaka so you have convinced me to go now. Ramen and Udon are my favourite foods ever!

We also missed Osaka on our first Japan trip. We loved Tokyo and Kyoto, but Osaka is the Japanese city we love the most.

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Food , Japan

Osaka food tours – 7 best tours for food and drink travelers.

Osaka is one of our favorite food cities in Japan. There are so many great dishes to eat and so many places to eat. It can be overwhelming though. Booking a food tour in Osaka can help people who travel for food to eat better and learn more while visiting this food-focused city.

In this post, I share our recommendations on how to book one of the best Osaka food tours. And, I share our tips on how to make the most of your experience.  

*This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my  DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Why Book A Japan Culinary Tour

There are a lot of great reasons why booking a Japanese food tour could make your Osaka trip that much more special. First, there is a language barrier in Japan. Of course, there are picture menus to help you with ordering but we end up with more questions than answers when we are on our own eating in Japan. A food tour will help you learn more about the cuisine. 

This also helps with the second issue, Japanese cuisine is complex and layered. It’s so different from American or European cuisine. By taking a food tour, your Osaka local guide will help you learn more about the culture through the cuisine. 

Last, we love taking food tours at the start of our stay in a new city. It really makes the rest of our trip better. Your guide will give you inside tips on where and  what to eat in Osaka . Over the years, we’ve received great restaurant recommendations from some of our food tour guides.

If you need help planning your trip to Japan, check out our sample itineraries: 

Japan 7 Day Itinerary – How To Spend One Week Eating In Japan

Food Focused Two Week Japan Itinerary – 14 Days Of Eating Well

How To Book Hotels In Osaka

In the 10+ years of traveling to Japan, we’ve learned a thing or two about booking a hotel in Osaka. We’ve stayed at some great hotels like the  Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka  and  St. Regis Osaka . And we’ve stayed at some not-so-great hotels.

When planning a trip to Osaka, we use  Booking.com  for our accommodations. In addition to booking hotels, we’ve used them for  booking apartments  for longer stays. We’ve even used them to book villas and  ryokans in Osaka  when we want something special. We’ve even found some charming and less expensive  guest houses in Osaka  on Booking.com.

See the Top-Rated Osaka Food Tours On Viator 

How About A 12 Day Food Tour In Japan?

If you are looking for something more than just an Osaka one day tour, Intrepid Travel offers a  12 day Real Food Adventure In Japan . It hits some of our favorite food cities in the Kansai region of Japan. That includes Osaka, Kyoto, and  Koyosan  in Wakayama, which is just south of Osaka.

Along the way, travelers learn to make  sushi , eat street food, and stay the night in a Buddhist monastery. These are all food experiences we’ve had in Japan and would totally recommend. 

Check out Intrepid Travel’s 12 Day Real Food Adventure In Japan 

How To See The Best Of Osaka Japan On A Food Tour

A great  food tour  means that you can start to understand Japanese food culture while exploring a new city. It is more than just the food that is served.

It means you have the chance to meet new people, ask loads of questions, and learn about the history and culture of a new city. It’s one of our favorite ways to see a city! In this post, we share our recommended food tours in Osaka.

All pricing is provided in Japanese yen. This helps you plan your budget based on the current currency rates. With some tours, pricing will adjust based on how many people have already booked, how many people are in your party, and the time of year. 

We recommend using  Viator  for booking food tours and experiences. We like Viator for a few reasons. One, we’ve used them for tours around the world without any problems. Second, you will receive immediate confirmation of your booking.

Last, Viator is a reputable company that is actually owned by TripAdvisor, so if there are any issues with your booking, there is a big company standing behind the booking.

Eating sushi at a market in Osaka

Osaka Food Market Tour And Lunch

This  small group tour of Osaka  begins with a walk through Tsuruhashi Wholesale Fish Market. This is where many of Osaka’s restaurants buy freshly caught seafood. Enjoy mouthwatering sashimi surrounded by seafood vendors selling their daily catch.

The tour continues around the market where other local Japanese snacks and seasonal fruits are sampled. From the market, it’s time to ride the Osaka metro to a restaurant in the Shinsekai neighborhood for lunch. 

The tour price starts at around ¥12000 per person depending on group size. It’s a half-day tour, which starts at 10 am. Because this tour covers a lot of ground, you will be using the Osaka metro.

The cost of the metro is not included. (Book an Osaka 1-Day or 2-Day Metro Pass  here ).

Book this Osaka tour  here . 

Why we like this tour:

With a maximum group size of six, the small size allows the guide to customize the experience and improvise along the way. The tour features a number of Osaka specialties including Okonomiyaki and Kushikatu.

Two must eat dishes in Osaka . This is also a great tour for repeat travelers to Osaka to learn more about what and where to eat because it can be customized ahead of time.

We took an Osaka private tour with this same company. Our experience was a little different because they customized it for us. Because we’ve been to Osaka numerous times they gave us a more food professional.

Our guide was knowledgeable and detailed and taught us a lot about food in a city we know well.  

Check Rates For This Osaka Market Tour And Lunch 

Exploring Kuromon Market In Osaka

Kuromon Market And Dotonbori Food Tour

For first-time visitors to Osaka, this food tour provides a great introduction to one of Japan’s best culinary cities. The tour focuses on the famous Osaka market, Kuromon, and  Dotonbori , Osaka’s food street.

Beginning in the famous Kuromon Market, the centerpiece of Osaka food culture, the tour showcases the wide variety of vendors in the market, from butchers selling wagyu beef to tofu and of course sushi.

Eating your way around the market, the tour guide provides insight into the rich history of Japanese cuisine as well as individual dishes.

After the market, the tour continues past a number of famous Osaka sites including Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street and Dotonbori Bridge, where the tour ends. 

Book this Kuromon Market Tour  here . 

Why we like this tour: 

The tour can accommodate up to eight guests with pricing starting at ¥10000. Any special dietary requirements should be made at the time of booking. The tour begins at Nippombashi Station at 10:45 am and lasts three hours. 

In Osaka, food is incredibly important. Sampling local specialties such as yakitori, okonomiyaki, and takoyaki all in one tour, provides first time visitors to Osaka with great insight into what sets Osaka apart from other Japanese cities. With all of these dishes and more, guests will certainly not leave this tour hungry.

Check Rates For This Kuromon Market Tour 

Eating Sushi in Osaka

Osaka Food And Bike Tour 

Explore Osaka on two wheels while enjoying a sample of its culinary offerings. This three-hour tour focus on the south side neighborhood of Shinsekai.

In between bites of spicy pancakes, wagyu beef, sushi, and other delicious snacks, your guide will lead you through local markets.

The guide will also introduce you to locals to gain a better understanding of just how important food is to the residents of “Japan’s Kitchen.”

In addition to amazing local food, the riding tour leads past stunning Buddhist temples and visits one of Osaka’s many knife producers. 

Pricing for the tour starts at ¥9000. While not overly strenuous, the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart, or serious medical conditions. Pregnant travelers are also advised not to participate. 

Book This Osaka Bike Tour  here . 

Osaka is a massive city made up of dozens of neighborhoods. Hoping on two wheels to explore one of its iconic neighborhoods in a small group of seven is an experience not to be missed.

Add the opportunity to sample a number of local delicacies while meeting local residents is the cherry on top. This Osaka foodie tour provides a unique perspective of the city. 

Check Rates For This Osaka Bike Tour 

Osaka Night Tour Through The City’s Backstreets

Outside of the bright neon lights of Dotonbori lies another Osaka. An Osaka filled with illegal gambling dens, intriguing alleys, and areas controlled by the yakuza (Japanese mafia).

Led by Andy, a half-Japanese, half-Australian guide, this Osaka night tour explores parts of the city that most tourists steer clear of. 

During the approximately three-hour-long tour, guests will develop a deeper understanding of this multi-layered city.

Sample delicious Osaka street food while exploring authentic Osaka, bursting with history, and a bit rough around the edges. It’s a unique Osaka itinerary unlike any other.

Pricing to explore this other side of Osaka begins at ¥5600. The tour includes a one-hour all-you-can-eat kushikatsu experience at a vegetarian-friendly restaurant.

Accommodating up to 12 guests, the tour is perfectly suited for couples and small groups of friends. 

Book This Osaka Night Tour  here . 

We like this Osaka street food tour because it’s so quirky and unique. It’s great for people who want something more than the typical food tour.

Best of all, after the tour is over, Andy offers his personal recommendations on where to find the best shopping, dining, and drinking options for his guests. 

Check Rates For This Osaka Backstreets Night Tour 

Izakaya in Osaka

Namba Food And Bar Hopping Tour 

Osaka is an amazing city for food. And with food, comes drink. This bar-hopping tour is a great way to explore several of Osaka’s drinking establishments, which are often overlooked by tourists.

Your guide will help navigate Japanese drinking culture and customs while sampling local sake, beer, and other alcoholic beverages.

Focusing on the Dotonbori and Namba areas of Osaka, the three-hour night tour visits three local izakaya bars. Here you’ll sample local beer snacks while learning how to read a Japanese menu. 

Pricing for the tour starts at ¥6500. Additional costs for food and drink may be required. The perfect tour for couples or small groups of friends, maxing out at seven guests.

The minimum age in Japan for drinking is 20 years old. Most bars in Osaka do not accept credit cards so it is advised to have enough cash available. 

Book This Namba Food Tour  here . 

For first-time visitors to Osaka learning how and what to order in a Japanese bar is challenging. The Namba bar hopping tour is a great way to get your feet wet on learning the customs associated with drinking in Japan.

With a small group setting, the tour allows for a detailed conversation about the different Japanese alcoholic drinks, bar snacks, and etiquette.  

Check Rates For This Namba Food And Bar Tour 

Making Takoyaki in an Osaka Cooking Class

Osaka Cooking Class 

Cooking is at the heart of Japan, especially in Osaka. In this traditional Japanese cooking class learn the secrets and techniques to prepare some of Japan’s most iconic dishes. With only eight participants in each class, you’ll receive personal hands-on attention. 

Learn to prepare traditional Japanese green tea, takoyaki (fried octopus balls), miso soup, and okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake). They also arrange for an optional sake or beer tasting. 

This three-hour class is highly recommended for travelers who love to cook. Set in a traditional Japanese house, it’s a fun, hands-on experience that introduces the art of cooking in Japan. 

Prices for the cooking class start from ¥9000. Vegetarian options are available but all dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking.

Book this Osaka cooking class  here .

Why we like this cooking class:

We took this cooking class during an earlier visit to Osaka. It’s hosted by two sisters who not only love to cook but share the recipes that were handed down to them by their mother and grandmother. It’s also a great opportunity to go into someone’s home and see what it’s like to live in Japan.

The tour is a little outside of the city center of Osaka, but they provide directions by train and will meet you at the station. 

Check Rates For This Osaka Cooking Class 

Osaka Sushi Cooking Class

Fewer things are more Japanese than sushi. In this Osaka sushi cooking class, you will learn from a professional sushi instructor what it takes to prepare the most iconic Japanese dish.

In addition to sampling, your own hand-rolled sushi, enjoy traditional miso soup and Japanese omelet. Guests can enjoy their meal with an optional Japanese sake or beer tasting, for an additional fee. Limited to eight guests, pricing for the class starts at ¥11000. 

Set in a traditional Japanese home, the class begins with your instructor demonstrating how to make the all-important  sushi rice .

Rice rolling techniques for sashimi sushi are explained then it’s your turn to get rolling. Preparing side by side with the chef, guests will also learn how to create sushi rolls using  inari  (tofu skin). 

Book this Sushi Cooking Class  here .

Why we like this cooking class:  

It takes years to master the art of preparing sushi. For any traveler who’s been curious about how sushi is made, this is a perfect class.

Lasting just over two and a half hours, participants will learn the basics of sushi making while having the opportunity to experience the process firsthand. Best of all, travelers can enjoy the sushi they made. 

This Osaka cooking class is hosted by the same sisters who taught our cooking class in Osaka. We just love them and can’t recommend them enough! It’s also taught at their home. 

Check Rates For This Sushi Cooking Class 

FAQs – HOW TO BOOK A FOOD TOUR IN OSAKA

The Asahi brewery outside of Osaka does offer free tours. It is highly recommended to make a booking in advance. Visitors who arrive at the brewery without an appointment must wait, upwards of two and a half hours, for the next available tour. Appointments can be made by calling the brewery. English-speaking representatives are available when calling. Tours are given in both Japanese and English. The tours last approximately 30 minutes and include a tasting of three beers. Learn more here .

Comfortable shoes! Most food tours involve a lot of walking and standing. Also, wear comfortable clothing with layers, which means a rain jacket or umbrella during bad weather.

No, if you follow our Osaka Food Guide and our Dotonbori Food Guide you can eat well. But, you will be missing out on a lot of the history and culture of this food-centric city. Spending even two or three hours on a food tour is such a great way to learn more about a city and its culture – all while eating and drinking!

Osaka is an incredible food city and is known for many dishes. During an Osaka food tour, you can expect to sample okonomiyaki, sushi, takoyaki, and ramen. All of these are classic Japanese dishes.

Eric Hoffman

Eric Hoffman is the co-founder of Food And Drink Destinations. Eric is a lifelong traveler who is passionate about helping people learn how to travel for food. He lives with his wife, Amber, in Limerick, Ireland, after spending 3 years living in Spain. Over the last 20 years, they've traveled to over 70 countries together, always in search of great food travel experiences. Eric also loves cooking at home, always looking to perfect his Italian recipes.

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12 Highly-rated Places to Eat on Dotonbori, Osaka’s Iconic Food Street

By Author Kay A.

Posted on Last updated: January 6, 2023

Categories Area & Restaurant Guides

Osaka is known in Japan for its delectable food, and if you want the full experience when it comes to all the delicious types of food here, there’s one area in the city you need to visit — Dotonbori.

Dōtonbori (道頓堀, どうとんぼり) is a street located in Namba where locals and tourists alike flock to get their fix of Osaka specialties, whether it be a meal at a restaurant, a snack at one of the many street stalls, or both. You can spend an entire day just eating different things here, which is why it is associated with the term kuidaore (食い倒れ, くいだおれ), meaning to eat until you drop.

I love the bustling vibe in Dotonbori and the colorful restaurants and stalls with massive replicas of Osaka favorites like takoyaki, or seafood like crab and octopus. The atmosphere is exciting, albeit a little overwhelming when it comes to deciding exactly where to eat. After all, our stomachs can (unfortunately) only hold so much. 

So for those who have limited time in Osaka, here are 12 highly-rated places to eat on Dotonbori that are popular with locals as well as domestic and international tourists in Japan.

Table of Contents

Kushikatsu Daruma Dotonbori (道頓堀だるま)

Kushikatsu (串カツ, くしかつ), sometimes known as kushiage (串揚げ, くしあげ), is an Osaka delicacy consisting of skewed meat and vegetables, which are battered and fried. Kushikatsu Daruma is one of the most popular chains for this type of food and Dotonbori’s is absolutely worth visiting. The giant face above the entrance of the restaurant alone makes it hard to miss!

Kushikatsu Shirotaya (串カツ しろたや)

Shirotaya has excellent kushikatsu, some of the best I’ve had in Osaka thus far, especially for the price. It doesn’t have a flashy appearance like some of the places on this list and is tucked inside the third floor of the Nakaza Kuidaore Building, but it doesn’t need any gimmicks to lure in customers. 

I love their variety of kushikatsu, which are cooked right in front of you if you get a counter seat. The kushikatsu are crispy on the outside and juicy and tender inside. My favorites are the chicken tenders and the mozzarella, which is perfectly melty and stringy with each bite.

Chibo Okonomiyaki Restaurant

Trying okonomiyaki , a savory grilled pancake, is a must when in Osaka. Chibo is a beloved chain restaurant with branches worldwide, and their Dotonbori branch is certainly worth visiting as it has a special okonomiyaki called Dotonboriyaki (道頓堀焼き). This item is the most popular, which is no surprise given that it is larger than your typical okonomiyaki and packed with pork slices, shrimp, squid, cheese, and beef tendon with konjac. 

There may be a line outside but it moves fast as the friendly staff takes your order while you wait. You can customize the okonomiyaki to your liking in case there’s something you’d prefer to omit, and there are also gluten-free options!  

Your okonomiyaki is cooked right in front of you if you have a counter seat and the flourish of mayonnaise that is then spread and made into a beautiful pattern on the okonomiyaki is fun to see. Although the okonomiyaki is made quickly, taste is not compromised.

I got the Mentaiko Mayo Cheese Fuwatoroyaki but asked for regular mayonnaise instead of mayo containing mentaiko (明太子, めんたいこ) — seasoned pollack roe. Despite omitting what may have been an important topping (it’s in the name, after all), the golden brown okonomiyaki was packed with flavor with perfectly crispy pork slices. The perilla leaves inside were also a refreshing touch. The size was just right for me as it wasn’t overly filling, meaning I had room to eat other things on Dotonbori. But don’t worry, if you want something more hearty, there are larger sized okonomiyaki, such as the aforementioned Dotonboriyaki, as well as many side dishes.   

Ajinoya Honten (味乃家 本店)

I have been wanting to try Ajinoya Honten but whenever I go, there’s a huge line and I haven’t had the time to wait, unfortunately. Once I passed by at 3pm and there were even more people waiting than there had been at noon! However, this is a testament to the popularity of this place, which has been in business for decades. 

Their various kinds of delicious, fluffy okonomiyaki bursting with cabbage are loved by both locals and tourists. The staff will also cook the okonomiyaki for you so that your tastebuds have a perfect experience. I’ve heard their special okonomiyaki sauce is excellent as well.

Teppanjinjya Dotonbori Branch (鉄板神社)

This teppanyaki restaurant is tucked into the basement of the Erika (エリカ) building, but it is easy to find. Jinjya (神社, じんじゃ) means shrine, so the outside of the restaurant has both a large white lantern with the restaurant’s name on it and a bell, which are both typically found at shrines in Japan. I love the stylish and relaxed atmosphere in Teppanjinjya . It’s a perfect place to wind down and try different kinds of grilled food served on skewers while enjoying a beer or two with some edamame and jazz music. My favorites were the bacon-wrapped camembert cheese, shiitake mushroom stuffed with minced meat, and the asparagus. They also have seasonal specialties such as oyster and Yellowtail in the fall.  

Kani Doraku Dotonbori (かに道楽)

One of the most famous sights in Dotonbori, other than the neon Glico Running Man, is a giant moving red crab atop Kani Dōraku , a restaurant specializing in (unsurprisingly) crab, which is kani (かに) in Japanese. They have a ton of different dishes featuring crab, such as sushi, tempura, boiled crab, simmered crab, grilled crab, and the list goes on. Given the price, I wouldn’t recommend coming here unless you want a full-on crab experience and get one of their set meals. Otherwise, you can grab a kani man (かにまん), which is a steamed bun filled with crab meat, at their outdoor stall. 

There are several branches across Japan but this particular one in Dotonbori is the first. I haven’t had the chance to enjoy a sit-down meal here as I want to enjoy this restaurant with my family; however, I have gotten one of their fancy bento boxes for my husband and daughter to share. It took about thirty minutes to prepare, which was fine because I was able to eat some things along Dotonbori as I waited. As is typical of bento boxes, it was cold by the time my family had it but despite this, they enjoyed every last bit and felt very spoiled by the meal. This makes me look forward to when we can enjoy a piping hot meal in the restaurant. 

Dotonbori Imai Honten (道頓堀今井 本店)

Boasting over seven decades of history, Dōtonbori Imai catches almost every traveler’s eye because of how much it contrasts with many of the showy and modern restaurants in the area. It is located in a modest traditional Japanese building with black kawara (tiles) and a willow tree called Yoimachiyanagi , which has become a landmark of sorts in Dotonbori. 

Known for its kitsune udon, which originated in Osaka, this restaurant is commonly featured in gourmet magazines in Japan. This is one reason why there’s usually always a line of people outside waiting to have a taste of the famous noodles and the special dashi (broth), a family recipe that has been passed down generations.

If you live in Japan and can’t make it down to Dotonbori to try this udon restaurant, they have an online store where you can order their broth, noodles, or even bentos.

Harijyu (はり重)

The Harijyū building , built in 1948, sits on the corner of Dotonbori and houses three highly-rated restaurants that all feature beef in different styles — one specializing in Japanese curry, the second sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, and the third a western-style grill.

There is also a meat shop where you can get fresh meat or packaged meals like beef stew to cook at home, and even ready-made food such as bentos and katsu (cutlet) sandwiches.

Mattari Purin (まったりプリン)

Mattari Purin is located in the Harijyu building, but unlike the others, it doesn’t specialize in meat. Instead, it’s the place you go to for a quick dessert.  The custard pudding ( purin in Japanese, written as プリン) from this store is among the best I have ever had in my life and is true to its name, mattari (まったり) meaning rich in flavor. It’s thick and creamy with a perfect balance of vanilla, sugar, and egg, with a hint of cheesecake flavor. It’s no wonder that Mattari Purin has been featured various times on television programs, in magazines, and in newspapers in Japan.

Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka (たこ焼き道楽 わなか)

Of course, I can’t write an article about what to eat in Dotonbori without including one of the most famous must-have foods in Osaka — takoyaki! These savory grilled balls of batter containing a piece of octopus and topped with delectable sauces are sold in many shops along Dotonbori but one of the most well-known is Takoyaki Dōraku Wanaka . This is a chain shop but the Dotonbori branch is absolutely worth visiting.  You can either dine inside and grab a beer while you’re at it or take your takoyaki to go. I recommend getting their variety box ( ooii , おおいい) so that you can try four different flavors — traditional takoyaki sauce with mayonnaise, green onion with salt, soy sauce, and mentaiko mayonnaise (usually shortened to mentai mayo, 明太マヨ, in Japanese).

Creole Junk (くれおーるJUNK)

If you want to try some takoyaki with a spin on it, check out Creole Junk . This stall serves standard takoyaki as well as four different gourmet takoyaki topped with either porcini mushroom sauce, olive oil, cheese and black pepper, truffle salt, or two different kinds of spicy sauce. They also have fried chicken and yakisoba if you want a little extra. 

There are small outdoor tables where you can enjoy your takoyaki with some bottled beer. I’ve tried the porcini mushroom sauce and I quite enjoyed the creamy and savory taste of it on the soft and piping hot takoyaki. It was like a tasty hug on a crisp winter day.

Salon De The Alcyon

If you somehow have room for dessert, then you’ll want to visit the Salon De The Alcyon patisserie. Their seasonal sweets, such as cakes and tarts, are exceptional. You can either dine in with a dessert and one of their many teas at the fancy European-style salon on the second floor, perhaps even treat yourself to a Paris Afternoon Tea set, or simply order some sweets to go from the first floor.

When I first visited in the winter, they had several desserts flavored with Earl Grey tea, my favorite, so I ordered an Earl Grey mousse with orange peel to go as well as a strawberry shortcake for my husband and daughter. They packaged everything perfectly so everything looked just like it had in the store’s glass display case by the time I got home. After one bite, I was instantly hooked by the perfect balance of flavor and texture, and my family felt the same. I’m looking forward to trying more of their desserts, especially their fruit tart, which was already sold out in the afternoon when I arrived.

If you’re interested in visiting any of these shops (which you absolutely should!) you can find them on this Google map to make it easier for you to eat your way through Dotonbori! 

Happy feasting! Pin me for later

Kay is a Canadian freelance translator and writer who has been in Japan for more than a decade. Having lived in the Chugoku, Kanto, and now the Kansai regions, she hopes to share their various local cuisine on JFG.

She also writes about her experiences being a mother in Japan on her website, Tiny Tot in Tokyo.

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Must eat in Osaka —16+ best food in Osaka & must try food in Osaka

With the title of “national kitchen”, it gives you a feeling like walking in a food court no matter where you are in Osaka. However, to have the convenience and save time for the trip, I recommend checking out the following list of restaurants for each specific kind of food. Under each food is the top 3 best restaurants with location and general reviews as well as price range, which would be helpful and easy for you to make a choice.

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So, what to eat in Osaka and where to eat in Osaka? Let’s check out our suggested +16 must eat in Osaka (food must eat in Osaka, must eat food in Osaka), must try food in Osaka (Osaka must try food, food must try in Osaka) including top food in Osaka, best food in Osaka (best food to eat in Osaka, best food to try in Osaka), famous food in Osaka, Osaka local food, Osaka traditional food, traditional food in Osaka and best street food in Osaka as well as best places to find them in Osaka!

Takoyaki (#must try food in osaka)

Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru

Dotonbori has some great takoyaki stalls to choose from and Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru is super popular among street food lovers. The well-baked, golden and crispy octopus balls are the biggest sensation of the eatery.

Location: Minami Price range: Low

Visit Universal Studios Japan and crave takoyaki? Don’t worry about it! There’s a Takoyaki TAKOPA counter, also known as Takoyaki Park (改称), right in the Universal City Walk. There are five counters here, and you certainly don’t have to wait long.

Location: Takoyaki Park, Osaka Bay Price range: Low

To learn about common takoyaki, go to Takohachi in Tennoji and have some akashiyaki instead. It’s similar to takoyaki, but dipped in light, delicious dashi broth. Indeed, it’s great for people who want to try a more novel style of this snack.

Location: Tennoji Price range: Low

Okonomiyaki (#must eat in osaka)

If you only have time for one okonomiyaki restaurant in the city, choose the popular Michelin-rated Kiji Bib Gourmand in Umeda. The long queue of guests in front of the restaurant is a testament to its excellent cuisine.

Location: Kita Price range: Low

For brilliant and creative okonomiyaki as well as some other dishes cooked on a teppan (iron grill), try this great restaurant. This place is just a short walk southwest of Honmachi Station. The name is written in English on the eaves, so finding it is not a problem.

Location: Central Osaka Price range: Average

Kyochabana Shin-Osaka Eki (#famous food in osaka)

Are you looking for a delicious yet healthy dinner option at Shin-Osaka Station? At Kyochabana, you will get affordable, tasty and creative Japanese food.

Location: Shin-Osaka Price range: Low

Kushikatsu (#best food in osaka)

Shichifukujin (#best food in osaka)

Shichifukujin in Tenma is a seat-only kushikatsu restaurant, super popular among locals. Their crispy skewers are awesome, the beer is totally affordable, and they serve oden (Japanese-style fish cake stew) to balance all those fried foods. A great choice if you are in the area!

Location: Kita Price range: Moderately low

Tengu (#osaka must try food)

Can’t get in line at Daruma? Don’t worry, there’s another kushikatsu restaurant in Shinsekai that’s just as good, if not better. Tengu will definitely satisfy all your greasy fry desires.

Location: Tennoji Price range: Moderately low

Karatto is a stylish, quite high-end kushikatsu restaurant located a short walk from Shinsaibashi Station. The food is not only good but also served in large quantities. The place is open until 5:00 am – it’s a great way to end a night of karaoke or party.

Location: Minami Price range: Average

Delicious sushi (#osaka must try food)

Endo Sushi Kyobashi

If you are looking for delicious, affordable sushi, Endo Sushi Kyobashi is the place for you. What a great stop if you travel between Osaka and Kyoto via Kyobashi Station!

Location: Kyobashi Castle Price range: Moderately low

Daiko Sushi Minamiten

Visit Shinsekai but don’t like to eat fried food at all the kushikatsu restaurants? Drop by Daiko Sushi in Jan Jan Arcade for a budget-friendly and fun meal.

Sushi Tokoro Jinsei

Sushidokoro Jinsei is a small sushi restaurant located in Shinsaibashi District. It’s a pretty cool place that’s totally worth the money. From food to service, everything is very well cared for. Of course, you’ll enjoy sushi in a fancy atmosphere at this place.

Location: Minami Price range: Moderately low

Ramen (#traditional food in osaka)

Chukasoba Kazura

Not all ramen is made the same. Chukasoba Kazura in Awaza serves shoyu chicken ramen with an amazing light soup that tastes like a mousse. Look for Kanji on the sign. You may have to line up with the locals, but it will definitely be worth a try.

Location: Central Osaka Price range: Moderately low

Ryukishin RIZE

Everyone needs to taste a bowl of ramen before departing from Japan. Ryukishin RIZE in Namba, with its savory bowl of shio ramen, is a popular restaurant as the famous instant noodles. A great destination for you if you like thick meat soup.

Menya Ageha (#what to eat in osaka)

For delicious ramen with meat within walking distance of Osaka Castle Park, try this famous local eatery. It’s casual and very friendly to drop by. The name is written in English on the brown noren door screen below the sign.

Location: Osaka Castle Price range: Low

Ramen Uroko

Osaka has a lot of great ramen shops but Ramen Uroko stands out even in harsh competition. Located at the stop on the south side of Shin-Osaka Station, this business serves an excellent ramen shio that will meet your taste for sure.

Izakaya / Sake (#what to eat in osaka)

Binbiya is a premium, Michelin-starred izakaya in Kita-Shinchi District that specializes in fresh, yet surprisingly affordable seafood dishes. The dinner here will not cost you more than 7,000 yen unless you order more drinks. Great value for the money!

Location: Kita Price range: Average

Chirori (#what to eat in osaka)

Chirori is a modern, local izakaya serving phenomenal small dishes and an extended collection of sake to pair with. Located one stop south of Shin-Osaka Station, this place is a wonderful spot for dinner with friends.

Location: Shin-Osaka Price range: Average

Osaka Yakiton Center

Interested in experiencing a local bar on your trip? Head to Osaka Yakiton Center in Namba for delicious grilled pork skewers. The English menu is not available; however, the staff are very friendly, and you can even pour your own wine!

Soba (#best food to eat in osaka)

Sobakiri Arabompu

Noodle restaurants are noticeable in Osaka. Enjoy your soba at Arabonpu in Kita District where the owner serves beautifully textured artisan noodles in a small, quiet shop.

Besides Shinsaibashi Station, Nishiya is a famous udon restaurant, long-established and great for a hearty meal in the middle of the shopping malls. They also serve dishes other than udon, so everyone can find something of their own here.

Shuhari (#best food to eat in osaka)

Shuhari is a soba specialist eatery not too far from Osaka Castle Park. Their soba and tempura are very chewy and well-processed. The wasabi is fresher than anywhere else. Look for the wooden steps at the entrance.

Location: Osaka Castle Price range: Average

Udon (#best food to try in osaka)

Kidatake (#must eat food in osaka)

Kidatake is a simple, raw udon restaurant located in Namba, which serves one of the best bowls of udon noodles in the city. It’s perfect for a casual lunch while exploring the area.

Tokumasa Udon

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These meals will make you want to travel, just to eat!

Prepare yourself to drool over these 41 meals, each featuring mouthwatering photos, details, and where you can eat it.

I've also included some of my personal travel eating tips and answered some of your top questions... like "Mark, how do you make money to travel?".

You must love food as much as I do!

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Osaka Food Guide: 11 Must Eat Foods (and Where To Try Them)

Throughout Japan people love to eat.

But even in the food loving country of Japan, Osaka is still known as one of the ultimate food destinations – a city with passionate food lovers and an abundance of things to eat.

And that’s precisely the reason why I was so excited to visit Osaka, Japan – for the food.

In this Osaka food guide blog, I’m going to share with you 11 Japanese foods to try in Osaka, and then share restaurants where you can try them.

NOTE : Before we get started on this food guide, just remember that Osaka is a big city in Japan, and just about all the best Japanese foods from around the country are available. But I’ve narrowed in on 11 of the dishes in Osaka that I think are some of the most important and local favorites.

Also, a big thank you to Dwight Turner who is responsible for encouraging Ying and I to come to Osaka on an impulse decision. Go check out his blog here .

Ok, let’s get started…

1. Sushi & Sashimi

I know, this could seem a bit obvious, but to me, I had to include sushi and sashimi in this Osaka food guide because I believe it is the most important food in all of Japan.

While many of the Japanese foods mentioned on this list below are available at Japanese restaurants throughout the world (as are sushi and sashimi), the freshness and quality of sushi and sashimi in Japan is unparalleled.

Even though you could eat sushi somewhere else in the world, to me it’s the ONE food worth flying to Japan just to eat.

You might also be interested in my Tokyo food guide .

The simplicity, the freshness, and the presentation, are all factors that contribute to eating sushi in Japan and make it such a glorious food experience.

Osaka is home to one of the largest fish markets in Japan , with a lively tuna auction that goes down early in the morning to get the sushi and sashimi started for the day.

Sushi and sashimi are available throughout Osaka, from supermarkets and budget stalls to the highest end sushi restaurants, and everything in-between.

I was pretty happy with how affordable sushi was – for less than $10 you can eat a world-class sushi meal in Osaka, a plate of sushi that could easily cost $20 – $30 outside of Japan.

In addition to normal nigiri sushi that includes a ball of rice and a slice of fish on the top, Osaka is also famous for its old style box sushi , known as hako-zushi, and available at markets through Osaka, the basements of departments stores, and a famous restaurant called  Yoshino Zushi .

Here are a few of the places I ate sushi when I was in Osaka:

Tokisushi (ときすし)

After exploring the Kuromon Ichiba Market one afternoon, we wanted to sit down for a more substantial meal. A quick search on Foursquare lead us to Tokisushi (ときすし), a small and friendly sushi bar, where they serve some seriously good sushi.

I ordered the 12 piece set, which included 12 different pieces of nigiri sushi, all picked by the chef, which probably changes by the day depending on what fish and seafood is available.

Everything on my plate of sushi was excellent, but the negitoro, minced fatty tuna sitting over a bite of rice wrapped in fresh seaweed, was my ultimate piece.

And along with serving awesome sushi, their service was excellent, and all the staff were friendly and helpful.

Address : 4-２１ Nanbasennichimae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0075, Japan Open hours : 11 am – 2 pm for lunch at 5 pm – 10 pm for dinner on Tuesday – Sunday (closed on Monday) Prices : I ate the 12 piece special sushi set for just 1,050 JPY ($8.70) – great value I think Website : http://www.tokisushi.jp/ How to get there : Tokisushi (ときすし) is located very close to the Namba area of Osaka

Harukoma Sushi (春駒 支店)

Of all the restaurants in this Osaka food guide, this place is one of my favorites.

Located somewhere in the middle of Japan’s longest shopping street (Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai – try to pronounce this one), Harukoma Sushi (春駒 支店) is popular sushi restaurant in Osaka, and I absolutely loved it.

We arrived at about 5 pm, and had to wait in line for around 15 minutes to get in, but the line moved quickly for how many people were waiting. From outside, the restaurant looked quite small and calm, but inside it was large, with about 10 sushi chefs, and it was loud and energetic – it felt like I was at the fish market – a fantastic sushi dining environment.

They had an English menu, and the ordering was done in a-la carte fashion. I wrote down all the different types of sushi and rolls I wanted, handed it to our kind waitress, and within minutes our platter of sushi arrived.

Don’t go to Harukoma Sushi (春駒 支店) looking for delicate, extremely beautiful sushi (the kind that won’t make you full). Instead, go there for generous slices of thick cut fresh fish. It’s the type of sushi restaurant you eat at when you want to get full with great quality.

I could hardly believe how big they cut the tuna belly and the quality and quantity of their uni (sea urchin). One of the best restaurants in Osaka for me.

And again, just like at so many of the restaurants included in this Osaka food guide, the staff at Harukoma Sushi (春駒 支店) were helpful and really kind.

There are two branches of this sushi restaurant within the same market, both with a continual line of customers waiting to get in. I ate at the larger branch, on the main market walking street.

Address : 5-5-2 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan Open hours : Around 11 am – 9:30 am daily Price : 3 of us ate a lot of sushi until we were full for 4,000 JPY ($33.15) – excellent value How to get there : It’s not too far from either Temma JR station or Ogimachi Subway Station, along Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai walking street.

Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants

Around popular shopping districts like Namba and Umeda you’ll find plenty of budget sushi restaurants in Osaka that serve sushi that rotates around the restaurant on a conveyor belt.

Conveyor belt sushi restaurants often have a clear system of different colored plates that cost different amounts, and often their cheapest plates will be in the 100 – 130 JPY per plate range.

While it can’t compare to the quality at a real sushi restaurant, I quite enjoy conveyor belt sushi for the food and the atmosphere.

I think Japanese mainly eat conveyor belt sushi when they want a budget meal in Osaka that they can eat quickly.

Endo Sushi (ゑんどう寿司)

Do any searches for the best sushi in Osaka, and you’ll quickly come up with Endo Sushi , a famous restaurant located at the Osaka fish market.

I made the mistake of going on a holiday, and they were closed. So unfortunately, no Endo Sushi for me on my latest trip to Osaka.

Address : 1-1-86 Noda Fukushima-ku Osaka City Open hours : 5 am – 2 pm (closed on Sunday and Holidays) Prices : 1,050 JPY ($8.74) for a 5 piece set Website : http://www.endo-sushi.com/english.html How to get there : It’s about a 10 minute walk from Tamagawa Subway Station

2. Yakiniku & Horumon (Japanese BBQ)

It’s not only fish and seafood that Japan excels at serving, but grilled Japanese beef and meat is another meal you don’t want to miss when you’re in Osaka.

For just about any meat lover, Japanese beef is the holy grail of meat – it’s the type of beef that you’ll have dreams about.

Yakiniku is the Japanese style of grilling beef, typically where you grill the meat yourself on a tabletop charcoal grill in the middle of your table.

Before we get into the meat, I just want to touch on the fact that even though you’re eating indoors, you’ll likely get real charcoal to cook your meat over, not a gas powered grill – and this makes so much difference in flavor.

When you go to a yakiniku restaurant and see the different selection of Japanese beef available on the menu, you’ll start drooling just from the raw meat photos.

Do you like my photos? Check out the camera gear I use here .

Kobe beef, one of the world’s most famous meats, is a type of Japanese wagyu from Kobe, which is located just a 30 minute train ride from Osaka – so Osaka has plenty of Kobe beef available.

But there’s not just Kobe wagyu beef, there’s also  Matsuzaka beef , which some consider superior to Kobe beef, and there are varying levels of Japanese wagyu beef as well.

For yakiniku, the meat is sliced into bite sized pieces, grilled over charcoal, and often served with just a few light seasoning like high quality salt, sesame oil, shoyu, and sometimes a dab of sweet wasabi. But the meat is so flavorful and juicy, it honestly needs little, if any help.

While you’ll often seen the advertising for the most beautiful marbled slices of wagyu, another popular yakiniku meal is known as horumon bbq, the random bits of meat like stomach and esophagus.

If you’re ready to take on some parts of the cow that you didn’t even know were possible to eat, a horumon experience is something you can’t miss in Osaka.

There are plenty of Yakiniku restaurants in Osaka like Susumu and Matsuzakagyu , but since Kobe is so close to Osaka, it’s also fun to take a day trip to Kobe for some beef as well.

La Shomon (焼肉バル Kobe, Japan)

Through a friend of a friend, Dwight connected with Lauralee. Along with being extremely kind and agreeing to take us on a food tour of Kobe, her and her husband own a couple of yakiniku restaurants, and invited us to sample some beef.

When our train arrived to Kobe, we met up with Lauralee and her husband, who drove us out to La Shomon (焼肉バル), one of their beef restaurants located in the Tarumi area of Kobe.

The raw beef came on a plate, beautifully decorated, and when I saw the veins of fatty marbling in the meat we were about to grill, I almost couldn’t handle my anticipation.

This was the best beef meal of my life. The meat was unbelievably juicy and had a depth of flavor that I’ll never forget.

In addition to the best beef I’ve ever had, La Shomon (焼肉バル) also specializes in dry aged Japanese wagyu. The meat was grilled in a block, then sliced into bite sized pieces. Again, it was outrageous, with a hint of a cheese flavor to complement the intensely good beef.

La Shomon isn’t in Osaka, but it’s worth making the trip to Kobe (Tarumi) for.

Address : 垂水区神田町4-10 2F, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan 655-0027 Open hours : 11 am – 10:30 pm daily, and 11 am – 10 pm on Sundays Prices : You’re likely to spend about 3,000 – 6,000 JPY per person ($24.96 – $49.92) – a wonderful deal when it compares to the quality of the beef you’re about to eat Website : Check out their Facebook page How to get there : La Shomon is about a 20 minute train ride from central Kobe, in an area called Tarumi. You can get off the train at Tarumi station, and the restaurant is very close, at the base of the walking street.

If you’re interested in watching the video, here our full Kobe beef adventure:

(Or watch it on YouTube here )

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In Osaka (and throughout Japan), people take their ramen very seriously .

It’s a dish, that at the right restaurant, many are willing to stand in a long line to patiently wait their turn to have a bowl of piping hot noodles in broth.

Ramen is one of those dishes in Japan that has a cult following – everyone has their favorite spot, and when you want to eat a bowl of ramen, nothing can deter your craving.

The noodles used in ramen are typically wheat noodles, similar to Chinese  lamian . They are cooked to varying degrees of chewiness, sometimes served more al-dente, while other times they are served softer.

But the real flavor and pleasure of eating a bowl of ramen (at least for me) is in the broth, and there are a number of different popular styles, which can be identified by the richness and flavor of the broth.

This is a great explanation of the different types of ramen you’ll find in Japan, but a few of my favorites are shio, a salt based broth, shoyu , a soy sauce based broth, and finally, the heavy creamy tonkotsu ramen, made with pork bones that are boiled until the marrow is unleashed.

Finally, the toppings, and most notably, the thick slices of pork chashu, and the spoonful of raw minced garlic, elevates a bowl of ramen to perfection.

For myself, it depends on what mood I’m in that determines what styles of ramen I feel like eating. But a good bowl of rich buttery tonkotsu is tough to beat.

Ramen Yashichi (らーめん弥七)

I can say with some certainty, that my bowl of chicken based shoyu ramen at Ramen Yashichi (らーめん弥七) in Osaka, was the best bowl of ramen I’d ever had… in fact, I didn’t even know ramen could be this good before Dwight took me here for the first time.

As with many ramen restaurants in Japan, you have to pay at a vending machine, and then get a ticket that corresponds to your bowl of ramen of choice. You then proceed to hand it to the chef as you sit down.

Ramen Yashichi (らーめん弥七) is a small restaurant, but they maintain a quality and flavor of ramen that blew me away.

The broth is technically shoyu, but it’s heavy and buttery, and perfectly salty and creamy, with both slices of chashu and a scoop of fragrant wok fried pork, to make the flavor even better.

All in all, it was a beautiful bowl of ramen, definitely worth waiting in line to eat.

Address : 3-4-8 Toyosaki, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Open hours : 11 am – 4 pm on weekdays only (closed on Saturday and Sunday) Prices : I ordered the special bowl for 990 JPY ($8.24) How to get there : Ramen Yashichi (らーめん弥七) is very close to Nakatsu Subway station. Once you exit the station, walk east, and the ramen restaurant is just before you reach the main highway.

Hakata Ippudo Ramen (一風堂 池田店)

Hakata Ippudo Ramen is one of the most famous Japanese ramen brand chains, with branches all over Japan, and even in other countries – like Thailand.

I wasn’t really expecting to eat here, but after visiting the Instant Ramen Museum , we decided to have a real bowl of ramen, and we stepped into a ramen restaurant that looked good, and because I can’t speak or read Japanese, we had no clue it was Hakata Ippudo Ramen until we got in and started reading the menu.

I ordered the Momofuku Classic, a plain but soothing bowl of noodles. But their most famous ramen is the tonkotsu.

You’ll find a few other branches of Hakata Ippudo Ramen in Osaka, including one at Namba .

Address : 2-10 Masumicho, Ikeda, Osaka Prefecture 563-0041, Japan Open hours : Lunch and dinner Website : http://www.ippudo.com/index.html How to get there : The branch I ate at is located just off the Ikeda train station, near the Instant Ramen Museum

Udon is a thick and chewy Japanese noodle made with wheat flour, and served in a variety of different ways.

To me, as opposed to ramen – beyond the thickness difference – udon is sort of the more elegant noodle option.

It seems that it’s often a bit plainer in flavor (the broth or sauce is typically not as heavy or salty as ramen), and it’s more of a delicate flavored noodle and even the style of eating it seems more delicate.

That doesn’t mean it’s not one of the must eat foods in Osaka, because it’s extremely popular, and really good – it’s probably my wife’s favorite Japanese noodle option.

Udon noodles are served in many different styles, including with curry, in hot soup, in cold soup, and even dry with a dipping sauce (highly recommended by the way).

Even though all types of Japanese udon dishes are available at restaurants in Osaka, one of the local favorite styles, originating in Osaka, is kitsune udon . The udon noodles come in a light dashi stock flavored broth, and the main topping is a piece of sweet stewed tofu.

You’ll find some top notch udon restaurants throughout Osaka.

Sanshyu Udon (情熱うどん 讃州)

Located just down the street from where we stayed for the first week when we were in Osaka, we went to Sanshyu Udon (情熱うどん 讃州) for lunch one day.

The udon noodles are all made in house, and I chose to order the curry udon, which came with a pile of shredded green onions and a poached egg (maybe?) on top.

Ying ordered the cold udon noodles, in a light shoyu broth, that was ice cold, with an egg, thin pieces of pork, and ginger included. Ying’s bowl of udon was my favorite.

Address : Japan, 531-0072 Osaka Prefecture, 3-4-1 Osaka Open hours : 11 am – 3 pm and 5:30 pm – 9 pm (closed on Sunday) Price : About 800 – 1,200 JPY ($6.66 – $10) per bowl of udon How to get there : Sanshyu Udon (情熱うどん 讃州) is located just two houses down from Ramen Yashichi (らーめん弥七), so you could eat at these two awesome restaurants back to back. Take the subway to Nakatsu station, and walk east for about 5 minutes and the restaurant is right on the edge of the highway (but don’t cross the street).

Chitose Nikusui (千とせ)

I was seriously hoping to eat at a restaurant called  Chitose Nikusui (千とせ) when I was in Osaka, but unfortunately, due to back to back holidays on my last few days in Osaka, I missed it. But it looks so good if you have a chance to try it. Let me know if you try it!

5. Japanese Curry

When I was attending university in the United States years ago, one of my go-to meals when I really needed some motherly comfort food, was Japanese curry.

No, I wouldn’t go to a restaurant, but I’d go to the nearest Asian supermarket, buy a packaged box of Japanese curry base, then cook it up with a bunch of beef and carrots and make a giant pot of fresh steamed rice to go with it.

Of all the food included in this Osaka food guide, Japanese curry might be the most comforting of them all.

For myself, just like for many Japanese, Japanese curry is one of the ultimate comfort foods.

Japanese curry is quite a fusion food, a curry flavor that originally comes from India, but routed through the curry culture of Britain .

The curry has a familiar curry powder blend flavor, but the sauce is dark and thick, more like a brown gravy than a typical saucy curry.

There are a number of ways Japanese curry is served, with udon noodles is common, but probably the most popular is right over a bed of Japanese steamed short grain rice.

While Japanese curry can’t compare to the depth of spice in Indian or Thai curries , there’s something about Japanese curry that just makes one warm and fuzzy inside – perhaps it’s the mild blend of curry powder, the thick rich gravy sauce, the option of a fried pork katsu cutlet, and the fresh steamed Japanese rice.

Japanese curry is one of those meals, kind of like ramen, that’s famous for being a 24 hours a day food, and in both Osaka and Tokyo it seems to be a favorite among late-night gamers.

Oretachi No Curry Ya (俺たちのカレー家)

Tripadvisor is not always the best guide for finding things to do or restaurants to eat at when you travel. But sometimes there are some great suggestions, and Oretachi No Curry Ya (俺たちのカレー家) was an excellent recommendation for Japanese curry in Osaka.

The restaurant, located just a stones throw from Osaka’s Namba train station, is small and friendly, and you’ll see the mouthwatering photos of their curry on the glass outside the restaurant.

I ordered their main speciality, a plate of Japanese curry with a pork katsu on top, a cup full of green onions, and finally a soft half cooked egg placed over everything.

It was one of the better versions of Japanese curry that I’ve had that I can remember – the curry was thick and creamy, the katsu was fried fresh so it was still crispy, and the green onions, in abundance, provided a fresh crispness to the entire plate.

Address : 14-13 Namba Sennichimae, Kawanishi Dai3 Bldg. 1F, Osaka 542-0075, Osaka, Japan Open hours : 11 am – 9 pm on Monday – Friday, and 11 am – 10 pm on Saturday and Sunday Prices : My full option curry plate cost 900 JPY ($7.49) How to get there : Oretachi No Curry Ya (俺たちのカレー家) is located just on the east side of Nankai Namba station

Camp Curry (野菜を食べるカレー)

Located somewhere within the confusion of Osaka’s massive Umeda station, within the Eki Marche Osaka food center is Camp Curry (野菜を食べるカレー), a camping and backpacking themed Japanese curry restaurant.

It’s a small restaurant, and all the seating is bar counter style, so no matter where you sit, you’ll have a clear view of the chefs cooking your curry fresh.

They serve their plates of curry within cast iron skillets, and you’ll even have a shove to eat with.

The curry was a little on the mild side for me, but it was a good quick meal right in Umeda Station, and I enjoyed the theme.

Address : 3-1-1 Umeda, within the Eki Marche Osaka food center Open hours : 10 am – 10 pm daily Price : 800 – 1,000 JPY per dish ($6.66 – $8.32) Website : http://curry.camp/ How to get there : Once you’re at Umeda Station, navigate your way to Eki Marche, and you’ll find Camp Curry towards the back

Ghar Curry家

It’s been said many times that some of the best international restaurants in the world are found in Japan – for instance you’ll find some of the best Italian food outside of Italy in Japan.

Ghar Curry家 is a trendy restaurant in Osaka that serves outstanding curry that’s very Indian in flavor and profile, but still served with Japanese rice. I had their lamb meatball curry and their minced lamb curry, both of which were delicious.

Address : 西区京町堀1-9-10-103, Osaka, Japan 550-0003 Open hours : 11:30 am – 2 pm for lunch daily, 6 pm – 10 pm for dinner on weekdays only (closed for dinner on weekends) Prices : My curry cost 850 JPY ($7.07) Website : http://ghar-curry.com/ How to get there : Take the subway to Hommachi station, take Exit 28, and it’s just a short walk from there.

6. Shokudo (Diner Restaurants) – Katsu, Tempura, Donburi

One of the best types of restaurant to eat at in Japan if you’re looking for budget eats is a diner style restaurant, which you’ll frequently come across throughout Osaka.

Rather than featuring tonkatsu, tempura, broiled salted mackerel (one of my personal favorites), oyakodon, or some of the other favorite Japanese diner dishes on this Osaka food guide, I just decided to include them all under the Shokudo diner meal category

( Note : These dishes, like katsu and tempura can be very high end and high quality as well (which is amazing), but for this guide I’ve included the budget versions).

Diner restaurants are where people of all walks of life stop in for a quick, easy, relatively cheap most of the time, filling, and pretty good tasting meal.

They are sometimes family run, other times they are chain style cafeteria restaurants.

At some Shokudo you’ll pay and order from a vending machine, and at others you can walk through a line, and pick and choose whichever dishes look good to you.

Along with the occasional oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl), one of my favorite meals to eat at a cafeteria diner restaurant in Japan is the broiled mackerel set, which typically comes on a tray, served with a few small side salads and pickles, and a bowl of rice.

The food is good, and it’s one of the top ways to eat on a budget when in Osaka.

Shokudo restaurants are common throughout Osaka, and you’ll pass many as you walk around the city. But here are a few of the ones I ate at, just in case you need some specific restaurant suggestions:

Shokudo Diner (心斎橋食堂) – Shinsaibashi

This Shokudo Diner (心斎橋食堂) located in the Shinsaibashi area of Osaka is cafeteria style, and you just walk through the entrance and pick and choose whichever dishes you want.

I had a fish, an omelet (not pictured), some pickled seaweed, and some eggplant, and everything was pretty good, and I enjoyed the laid back diner style.

For my entire meal I spent a total of 1,280 JPY ($10.65), a bit expensive because I took so much food – but you can choose however much you want, and eat on a budget as well.

Address : 東心斎橋1-17-15, 大阪市中央区, Ōsaka, Japan

Umeda and Osaka Stations

Around Umeda and Osaka stations, where there are lots of people, you’ll find numerous Japanese diner restaurants, all of which serve pretty tasty food.

Price : Meal above cost 650 JPY ($5.41) Open hours : I think it was 24 hours per day

7. Takoyaki

Takoyaki is almost a synonym of Osaka.

These little golf ball sized batter balls stuffed with a piece of octopus are perhaps the most famous thing to eat in the city, and they are a big hit and food craze around the world as well.

When you get to Osaka and start wandering around and eating, you’ll be quick to find that at just about every major market there are a few takoyaki vendors… and they are typically some of the busiest restaurants in the entire market.

One of the best things about takoyaki is watching them being made.

It begins with a hot griddle that includes golf ball shaped holes in it. A bunch of pancake like batter is first poured flat into the hot mold, before a pre-cooked piece of octopus is tossed in the middle.

As the batter becomes partially cooked, and when the chef determines the correct time, the chef takes a duo of chopsticks and works quickly to form the batter into balls, keeping the octopus in the center.

The takoyaki sizzles in the mould until it’s golden brown, and it’s then ready to be dished out.

When you order takoyaki in Osaka, they will typically dish them into a boat shaped tray, and then you can order a selection of different toppings – some of the typical toppings include Japanese mayonnaise, takoyaki sauce (which kind of tastes like sour teriyaki sauce), seaweed flakes, cheese, and the mandatory sprinkle of bonito fish flake shavings.

For myself, takoyaki is one of those foods that has to be hot and fresh for me to enjoy, so it’s crispy on all the edges, and soft and gooey in the middle. If it sits for too long and loses its crispy edges, it’s not nearly as good.

Ok, let’s move on to a few places you can try takoyaki when you’re in Osaka:

Takoyaki Wanaka at Kuromon Ichiba Market

On my first day in Osaka, we visited Kuromon Ichiba Market (great market by the way), and we decided to stop for takoyaki.

The restaurant turned out to be Takoyaki Wanaka (たこやき道楽 わなか 千日前本店), one of the more famous brands of takoyaki in Osaka with multiple branches around the city.

Our first helping of takoyaki turned out to be one of the best versions I had during our trip – probably partly because we were served when the takoyaki was so fresh and hot.

Address : 1-21-2 Nihonbashi Chuo-ku Osaka-shi Osaka Open hours : 9 am – 7 pm daily Prices : 400 – 500 JPY ($3.33 – $4.16) Website : http://takoyaki-wanaka.com/ How to get there : You’ll see them making takoyaki somewhere in the middle of the walking street at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Takoyaki Wanaka (たこやき道楽 わなか 千日前本店) – Original Branch

Funny enough, a few days after eating the takoyaki at Kuromon Ichiba, we were walking around Namba, and Ying wanted to eat some more takoyaki.

I had no clue until researching for this food guide, that it was the same place (different branch) as the place we had tried a few days ago. Takoyaki Wanaka (たこやき道楽 わなか 千日前本店) is very well known, and very popular.

Address : 11-19 Sennichimae Nanba Chuo-ku Osaka-shi, Osaka Open hours : 10 am – 11 pm from Monday – Friday, and 8:30 am – 11 pm on weekends Prices : 400 – 500 JPY ($3.33 – $4.16) Website : http://takoyaki-wanaka.com/ How to get there : It’s right on the east side walking street off of Namba Station

Koga Ryu Takoyaki (甲賀流 本店) – Amerika Mura

Located in the Amerika Mura (Ame-mura) area of Osaka, Koga Ryu Takoyaki (甲賀流 本店) has been a long-time standing takoyaki shop, and a favorite for many.

It’s right in the heart of the district where many people come to hang out and be seen. For myself, the takoyaki was good, but the edges weren’t quite as crispy as I was hoping for.

Address : 2-18-4 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka Open hours : 11 am – 8 pm on weekdays, 11 am – 10 pm on weekends Prices : 300 – 400 JPY ($2.50 – $3.33) Website : http://www.kougaryu.jp/ How to get there : You can either get there from Yotsubashi Station or Shinsaibashi Station

8. Okonomiyaki

Just like takoyaki, and even similar in ingredient makeup, is Osaka’s okonomiyaki, yet another food that originates from Osaka, and people passionately love to eat.

I’ll admit and say that I’m not the hugest lover of okonomiyaki. It tastes good sometimes, but to me it’s just kind of like a big pancake, and there’s not that much to it.

However, many others, including my wife Ying , really love okonomiyaki, and because of its popularity throughout Osaka, it really is something you need to experience when you visit.

Part of the joy of eating okonomiyaki is seeing it being made right before you, and eating it socially with a group of friends.

The batter mixture recipe includes flour, eggs, sometimes dashi stock (dry fish stock), and often a heap of finely shaved cabbage.

Once the batter is all mixed up, it’s then fried on a hot griddle at the restaurant, sometimes on a hot griddle right before you, and it’s topped and decorated with the ingredients to complete the version of okonomiyaki you ordered.

Okonomiyaki is then cut into pizza like slices, and you can either choose to eat it by cutting off a bite, or using your individual spatula to lift up your entire slice to your mouth.

Okonomiyaki Kiji (きじ)

Undoubtedly, the highlight of eating at Okonomiyaki Kiji (きじ), was the chef, who must be one of the friendliest chefs in Osaka. And after reading some more reviews , the kindness wasn’t just for us.

Along with Dwight and Ying, we tried a number of different okonomiyaki’s and my personal favorite was the version we ordered that was served with mochi rice cakes on top. They were so sticky, they were like melted cheese on top.

Overall, a very nice okonomiyaki restaurant, and a great chef.

Address : 1-1-90 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku | B1F Umeda Sky Bldg., Osaka 531-0076, Osaka Open hours : 11:30 am – 9:30 pm from Friday – Wednesday (closed on Thursday) How to get there : Okonomiyaki Kiji (きじ) is located on the basement floor of the beautiful Umeda Sky Building . It’s about a 10 minute walk from Osaka Station.

Ajinoya Okonomiyaki (味乃家)

I have to be honest and say I didn’t actually eat at Ajinoya Okonomiyaki (味乃家), but when I was getting some video editing done , Ying went off with her sister and had okonomiyaki here.

In her words, “it was the best okonomiyaki I’ve ever had… it was very fluffy, they added a lot of meat and sauce.”

She also really liked that at Ajinoya Okonomiyaki (味乃家), you could self-add as much sauce and bonito fish flakes as you wanted.

I’m not sure if this is the best okonomiyaki in Osaka, but I’ll trust my wife on this one, who said it was really good.

Address : Japan, 〒542-0076 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka Open hours : 11:30 am – 10:45 pm daily Website : http://www.ajinoya-okonomiyaki.com/ How to get there : Ajinoya Okonomiyaki (味乃家) is located in the Namba area of Osaka. From the train station, head north, and the restaurant is along Hozenji Koisan Dori.

Japanese food is known for being extremely pretty and the presentation of the food really stood out to me when I was traveling in Japan.

But not all foods can be pretty…

And oden is a Japanese food that I wouldn’t classify as looking too pretty from its appearance.

Known as a winter food throughout Japan, oden includes an assortment of ingredients simmered in a broth prepared with a hint of both dashi and soy sauce, giving it a light and soothing flavor.

While there can be all sorts of ingredients boiled inside the oden pot, daikon and yaki chikuwa, are two of the most populars items and should be consumed in every oden eating session.

Here’s a great guide to oden eating .

What is really interesting to me, is that oden is a Japanese food that has a huge range of qualities and is available everywhere from street food stalls to highly regarded Michelin starred restaurants in Japan.

And you can even get oden at 7 Eleven and Lawson.

Oden at Kuromon Market

One of the best places I had oden in Osaka was back again at Kuromon Ichiba Market.

If you take a walk down the main walking street of the market, you’re bound to see a nice lady dishing out piping hot vegetables, tofu, and skewers, from a scary looking vat of brown bubbling broth.

Don’t be afraid to get in there and choose a few items from the jacuzzi.

When I was in Osaka, I also really wanted to try Hanakujira , a highly regarded oden restaurant in Osaka, but I ran out of time before I could try it. If you have a chance to go, it looks like it surely won’t disappoint.

10. Kushikatsu (串カツ)

Born in Osaka, kushikatsu is yet another home-grown Japanese food that’s wildly popular in Osaka.

Are you starting to see a pattern of famous snack foods invented in Osaka?

Kushi in Japanese means skewers, and katsu means breaded and deep fried things. The result of this popular street food is a bunch of vegetables and even meats, all skewered, coated in a light batter, and deep fried until golden brown.

You can kind of think of kushikatsu like assorted chicken nuggets on a stick – with a bunch of choices for what’s inside.

But that’s not all:

Kushikatsu wouldn’t be kushikatsu without the sauce – at least it’s really the sauce that made it good for me.

The sauce has a ponzo sauce flavor, kind of like Worcestershire sauce, but more citrusy. A crunchy fried stick dipped in the sauce is surprisingly tasty.

While you’ll find kushikatsu throughout Osaka, the Shinsekai area is home to a high concentration of restaurants serving it, and it’s the area everyone seems to go when they’re in the mood for kushikatsu.

If you like drinking beer, a few skewers of salty and crispy kushikatsu makes a pretty good beer snack.

Kushikatsu Daruma (串カツだるま)

One of the most famous places in all of Osaka that serves kushikatsu is Kushikatsu Daruma (串カツだるま). It’s a chain restaurant, and there are even branches outside of Japan now as well.

The original location is in Shinsekai, and we ate at a branch (not the original one), but one about a 5 minute walk away.

Since I had no idea what to order, I got the Doubutsuenmae Set for 2,000 JPY ($16.68), which included a range of different skewers which we all shared.

I really liked the skewer of beef and the cheese. They sort of tasted like onions rings, but with all sorts of different insides. Again, the sour, sweet, and salty sauce is what really made it good for me.

Kushikatsu Daruma is legendary when it comes to kushikatsu in Osaka.

Address : 3-4-4 Ebisu-higashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka 556-0002 , Osaka Open hours : 11 am – 9 pm daily Prices : We paid 2,000 JPY ($16.68) for our samplers set Website : http://www.kushikatu-daruma.com/ How to get there : There are branches of this place all over Osaka, but I ate at the location right in Shinsekai, about a 10 minute walk from Ebisucho Subway Station.

11. Izakaya / Yakitori

Along with sushi and sashimi, one of my favorite things to eat in Osaka are the small plates of delicious food served at Izakaya’s, Japanese pubs.

Food is typically served on small plates where the focus is one flavor and quality over quantity, and dishes at Izakaya restaurants can range from slices of tuna belly to grilled skewers of chicken or pork.

Yakitori, Japanese grilled skewers of chicken, is one of my favorite Izakaya foods.

You won’t just get a skewer of bland chicken. The chicken will likely be some of the juiciest and most flavorful chicken you’ve ever had, always cooked over charcoal.

When you eat yakitori at a bar in Osaka, you’ll also have a choice of all sorts of different parts of the chicken including breast, thigh, gizzard, liver, skin, chicken neck meat, and probably even some parts of the chicken you didn’t know were edible (that was the case for me).

If you’re not too picky, the best way to order yakitori is to just order the amount of skewers you want in your set, and let the chef mix and match the parts of the chicken for you.

The two things that stand out most to me about eating yakitori are that the chicken is always grilled over real charcoal (giving it an always natural and delicious smoky flavor), and that the chicken is never overcooked.

Every izakaya in Osaka has their own main dishe – some serve yakitori, others tuna, or other snacks and small plates of food.

The best thing to do when you go to an izakaya is to order their speciality.

Izakaya’s in Osaka can be small and intimate, with only bar counter seating, or they can be big and rowdy and loud.

Whatever size of izakaya you visit, you can be sure there will be good food to snack on, drinks, and plenty of good socializing and fun.

Tayutayu Nambasennichimaeten (たゆたゆ 難波千日前店) – Pork Yakiton

Tayutayu Nambasennichimaeten (たゆたゆ 難波千日前店) is an izakaya that specializes in grilled pork known as yakiton, and they really emphasize the random parts of the pig (known in Japanese as horumon).

The grilled pork skewers were extremely flavorful with a perfect smoky and fatty taste, and the staff were really friendly.

Address : 2-6-10, Sennichimae, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Open hours : 5 pm – 1 am daily Prices : We paid 5,070 JPY ($42.19) for 4 of us Website : http://tayu2.com/ How to get there : The location of Tayutayu Nambasennichimaeten (たゆたゆ 難波千日前店) that we went to was right across the street from Dotonburi. You can get there easily from Nipponbashi station.

Chayamamchi Maguroya (梅田芝田一丁目まぐろや) – Tuna Izakaya

Dwight had checked this place out on his previous visits to Osaka, saying it was the ultimate tuna spot … and he wasn’t joking.

Chayamamchi Maguroya (梅田芝田一丁目まぐろや) is a loud, busy, and still friendly, izakaya in Osaka that specializes in tuna in all different forms, sizes, and degrees of rawness.

You can get oden cooked skewers of tuna eyeball socket and fried tempura, but the real highlight is indulging in a plate of melt-in-your-mouth tuna belly that’s so buttery, it will dissolve on your tongue (without you even chewing).

Address : 北区芝田1-5-6 (梅田旭ビル1F), Osaka, Ōsaka, 530-0012, Japan Open hours : Not fully sure about the hours, but I think from about 5 pm – midnight or so daily Prices : There were 3 of us, and we had about 8 dishes, plus drinks for around 5,000 JPY ($41.61) Website : http://maguroya-nakatsu.jp/ How to get there : Chayamamchi Maguroya (梅田芝田一丁目まぐろや) is located on the west edge of Umeda Station, near the railroad tracks. Use the map to find the exact street.

Yakitorisumisu (焼鳥スミス)

This is yet another place I went with Dwight. This time, he had to return an umbrella because the owner had let him borrow it a few nights before.

They invited us in, and we ended up having one of the greatest local Japanese izakaya Osaka experiences – food, fun, sake, and a really friendly crew.

Address : Nakazakicho Walking Street (see map) Open hours : Night time until late Prices : Dwight and I had a few drinks and about 15 skewers of yakitori for around 5,000 JPY ($41.61) Instagram :  https://instagram.com/takashikozo/ How to get there : Take the subway to Nakazakicho Exit 1

Watch the entire video of this unexpected, late night yakitori and sake here:

(Or here’s the link on YouTube )

Shimotaya (裏なんば酒場 しもたや) – Izakaya at Doguyasuji (Namba)

On my last night in Osaka, my wife and I were walking around the Namba train station area and went into the walking street of Doguyasuji.

Doguyasuji is known for its kitchen supplies, and also for its izakaya bars and restaurants at night. There are many to choose from.

We stopped in a place down a side alley called Shimotaya (裏なんば酒場 しもたや thank you to everyone for your help in the comments identifying this place), and it was the perfect way to end a 14 day eating trip to Osaka.

I didn’t want to end this Osaka food guide without a quick mention of an Osaka speciality meal called kappo , the Osaka version of an elegant kaseiki meal, but instead served bar counter style, where you eat with the chef watching you – and you can see everything the chef does.

Kappo is typically a very high end meal, where the chef emphasizes freshness, presentation, and creativity. It’s more than just a meal, it’s an experience.

Kigawa is one of the famous kappo restaurants in Osaka, and you can read reviews about it here and here .

Unfortunately I didn’t have a chance to try a kappo meal when I was in Osaka, but I’m hoping to have the chance on future visits.

The language of Japanese has a lot of cool words.

But probably my favorite is Kuidaore , a term that translates to eating oneself into bankruptcy.

In my opinion, the term doesn’t have to do with the fact that Japanese food is a bit on the pricey side, but it’s rather a metric of the abundance of food and how food is such an important part of social life and culture in Osaka (also check out my Tokyo food guide here ).

While I hope you don’t spend your entire bank account on food when you’re in Osaka (although that wouldn’t be a bad idea), I do hope you come very close to accomplishing this Osaka tradition, and I hope this Osaka food guide gives you some great ideas about all the delicious food available, and restaurants to try them at.

Enjoy the food, and if you have any questions about visiting Osaka, or any other food tips or restaurant suggestions, I would love to hear from you.

Are you ready to eat in Osaka? Leave a comment below now!

If you like my photos and videos, check out the camera I use .

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Knifeplatoon

Going to Osaka early next year, your blog will help me so much. Cheers mate

vishal kaushik

3 years ago

Awesome guys. Thanks for share!!

Unlimited-Recipes

I miss Osaka and the quality yummy food! Can’t wait to get back there. Enjoyed the read, Cheers, Adam

Yes good content.

5 years ago

6 years ago

I’m missing Osaka sooooo much! Now that we are living Catalonia, I miss Asia food in general. There are sushi places here, and we do have amazing fresh fish, but it’s just not the same as eating in Osaka. One of my favorite food cities in the world! Thanks for sharing.

Very interesting article, excellent work! I really appreciate people who put effort in things like this. I’ll use this post as a guide when I go to Osaka, thank you!

Food so enticing. Everything was well said or should I say written. Can’t wait to go to Japan. You are awesome

7 years ago

Definite YES to grilled beef and Izakayas! I can’t wait to go back to Osaka and try the rest on your list!!

Well written and very helpful in understanding the different types of food in Osaka. I am glad every second word was not “Amazing” – which tells me the article is written by an experienced & well rounded traveller.

Trinidad M. Castillejos

Dear Mr Mark & Mrs. Ying & Micah Wien, I’m watching & Love the food travel here in Fruitvale Village Oakland, California USA. Thank you.

Hi Mark, I have been watching your video all the while and it has been very enriching. Will be traveling to Osaka/Kyoto/Kobe this year. Just wondering is it very expensive to travel from Kobe to Tokyo by Train? And which would be the prefer area to stay in Osaka?

Taylor from OnTheGas

This is exactly what I was doing in Japan. Visiting different cities just to try out ramen, sushi, udon, umorice, sashimi and a lot of Japanese cuisines. I just can’t get over with it. Looking at your photos make me reminisce of my Japan trip. I can’t wait to return there.

Thanks for this! I have lots of family in Osaka (my mother grew up there and later moved to the US). Having eaten a lot of this food made fresh at home, going to Osaka was fun. My relatives knew what “hole-in-the-walls” to eat in. Food was always excellent and the prices were great. I don’t think I ever saw an American in any of those. I also ate and drank beer at a German gasthaus, had an excellent French restaurant dinner with fine wines, plus a visit to a Kobe beef house. Let’s not forget fugu (blowfish). That was amazing! My aunt served me a traditional Japanese breakfast every morning. I gained 5 lbs in 2 weeks eating Japanese food. I was skinny to start with. All that healthy food and I ate a lot of it. I lost the weight once i got State-side. Have fun in Osaka! If you have the chance, go to a seafood restaurant where you can get a steaming pot of crab legs, shellfish, etc. Or try the grilled sparrow…really good. Ika no shiokara, salted squid, is delightful with a cold beer or sake. For sushi, my uncle ordered delivery. The delivery person brings it via bicycle in a cooler on a nice melamine plate that you return the next time you order. It was way better than any sushi I had in the US. That was a treat. Osaka is an adventure in food!

I have heard about coromon echiba market. Have wish to visit their. One of the most known food item i have heard is sushi, although I have eaten in my country but would like to taste over their. I will visit Osaka soon.

Will be going to Osaka just for the food after three weeks of rock climbing in china. we will be eating all the foods. this article was very helpful. Thank you, Nick and Emily

Awesome to hear that Nick and Emily, hope you have a great trip and enjoy the food!

Going to Osaka on August, hope I could find my way to those places when I get there. Can I just ask, how much is your daily food budget? Including Bfast, Lunch & Dinner? Would 3000JPY be enough for a day? Thank you!

Thanks alot for all the sharing… looking forward for a good trip with all these nice food in Osaka next month.

Anjali Devnani

Now I feel bad for booking only 2 days in Osaka 🙁 But thank you so much for the recommendations I’m going to be eating my way through japan with a smile 🙂

Monstrosity123

Thanks Mark you are a great help . I’m going to Osaka this Friday . I’m going to use all your tips thanks a lot !!!! 😉

I am going there for two weeks starting April 1. I cannot wait to try out some of the dish!

I’m not going til June, but research starts now. Thanks for the guide!

john anderson

Great blog Mark! Going to Osaka in April and looking forward to checking out the places you’ve mentioned.

Flying today from Argentina to Japan , and I’m definitely using all your guides as reference. I’ll be travelling mainly because of the food so… yeahhh…. Im planning on entering to the Tuna Izakaya or maybe Sanshu and screaming Kuidaore!!!!!!!! Do you think that’ll work? haha Any way, thanks for you awesomeness Mark!!

Hey Diego, great news that you’re flying to Japan. Yes, very doable, do it all, and enjoy the food!

Tristan Hau

Hi Mark, your vid is sure my top reference for me as I am going to Osaka with my wife next Month. Just wondering why do you know so many nice place to try food and drinks consider this trip is a rush trip (on your day 1 video you said your decision is a bit rush for go/no go). You know it took me more than 30 hours to do the research until I know that you have Osaka vlog. The research now is over. Cheers Mark.

Thank you very much Tristan, and hope you have wonderful trip. I started doing a lot of research quickly, on local blogs / websites, and also when I started posting on social media I would get recommendations on where to eat from locals. So that’s mainly how.

Adele Gruber

I enjoyed watching your video, and your expression for every new “taste sensation.” I am going to Japan in a couple of weeks, and am soooo looking forward to the food!!!! Thanks for sharing your food experiences.

heading to Osaka in a couple of weeks, hope that we would be able to try your fantastic recommendations. My mouth was already watering just reading your blog 🙂 thanks!

Hey Jelaine, that’s great news. Hope you have a great trip and enjoy the food!

Charlie Holt

Mainly from your Videos , in which I am totally addicted to, my wife and I are planning a pilgramige to Japan , Tokyo , Osaka , Kobe and lastly Kyoto …thank you so much for the time and effort that you impart in both your Videos and Travel Guides Mahalo and Aloha from Bavaria

Did you seriously recommend a chain ramen restaurant from Fukuoka as an example of Osaka cuisine? It has Hakata in the name, the old name for central Fukuoka.

John Marlon.

Used to teach there in the 90’s. Kiki was popular back then. Although they ere in a nearly impossible location to find. The owner was friendly in those days as well. Good to know they are still in business.

Ready to eat in Osaka but clueless as to where to go. Yelp and Trip Advisor hasn’t been very helpful. Help!!! I am currently in Ikeda, Osaka. Just went to the Momofuku Andover Instant Ramen Museum. Not sure where to go now!

Hi Mark! Just wanted to let you know that my husband and I found your food blogs and vlogs about osaka food really helpful for our recent trip! We tried most of your recommendations and honestly – the food was incredible! Our favourites were Harukoma (such a great price for awesome sushi!!) and the tuna man at kuramon markets. We actually first found your site whilst looking for places to eat in Taipei last year on our honeymoon – and we also tried most of your recommendations then too! You’re basically our yearly holiday routine to get advice on amazing food now. Thanks so much for this site! Your commendations and your vlogs are awesome.

Hi Priscilla, awesome to hear from you, and glad you and your husband had a great trip and enjoyed the food in Osaka. Thank you!

8 years ago

I’d like to visit these places

Hey Apolo, hope you can visit!

I love ur blog and ur videos mate, lov ur reactions

The food has a realy good aspect. Nice travels.

Thanks Tiago.

Loved your suggestions. I lived in Osaka many years ago and I think you did justice to the food scene there. A suggestion, Japan has its own style of Chinese food, Japanese style. I can’t remember the term in Japanese anymore but it’s something you might explore if you are interested. Saw you on Zimmerin Bangkok show and was sold on your food opinion.

Hey Jeff, thank you very much, and I appreciate your recommendation. Would love to spend more time in Japan!

You’re awesome! The reviews and vlogs are exceptional and very entertaining.

Thank you very much Justin, glad this is helpful.

One of my favorite Japanese foods to eat sushi, but I’m not the biggest fan of the nigiri style. Personally, I only like nigiri sushi when it has unagi, which is eel, or shrimp on it. Other than that, I mainly like to eat the type that come in the roll form. However, I especially love sushi rolls when they are made with tempura.

I recently found your blog and videos channel while watching your Singapore food vlogs. The food looks so delicious; I’ve subscribed by the way.

I can’t believe you haven’t been to Vancouver yet considering Bangkok to Vancouver is only a 9 hours flight relative to Hawaii. When you do come, please send me a brief email as I’d love to show you around Vancouver and show you where all the best food places it (I may be out of town however 😉 enjoy travelling and eating as well.)

Anyways, hope to hear from you soon. (Please do contact me if you wish to visit Vancouver, I’d like to show you around the best food places in Vancouver)

Michaela Maestas

Hi, All your blogs and videos are always outstanding, I share them on Facebook all the time. Thanks . We learn so much . Great work. – Michaela and Ernesto Maestas , ABQ, New Mexico 87104

Stephen Ngo

OMG, thank u so much. I’ll be in Osaka for a week starting Tuesday, I’m Going to start with the homegrown favorites like takoyaki and okinomiyaki. After reading your remarks about Kobe beef my mouth is watering. Thank u for the recommendations and directions. I hope to gain 10 kilos!

Tine Priisholm

Wonderful blog post! Just what I was looking for – pictures, prices, addresses, and everything you need! 🙂 Thanks a bunch!

Hey Mark Love your vlogs! When you gonna visit hk?!

Hi Mark! your experience is very inspiring! and i enjoy all of your writing and you youtube videos!

I’m in Osaka right now and this post saves me so much searching time. Going out to hunt for that tuna belly! Thanks for the best food blog ever!

Hi Mark Wiens, I have watched all your videos about Japan. They were all very detailed and helpful. Thank you so much! However, I just wonder that if you want to go to a place, how do you know what trains or buses or subway stations, etc…that you have to take to get there? Did you use any apps or tools to find out?

Hi Mark, I loved your page and also your video of your 14 days trip to Osaka. This will help me and my husband for our trip to Osaka next week. We will be staying there for 12 days so we are really excited to try their food. I hope someday you can visit our country, Philippines and also try our local foods here, Im sure you’re gonna love it as well. Thanks!

**I also subscribed to your channel, and loved all your videos. Specially your reaction everytime you taste the food, it’s like the taste is so heavenly and it sometimes makes me hungry by just watching you eat. Haha.. Keep it up!

Oh Wow Mark, thoroughly enjoyed reading your Osaka food journey, it brought back so many scrumptious memories for me, thank you! I was there for 4 years and most of my days were spent trying out different eateries. All my Japanese girlfriends said that it’s the national past time (along with shopping). There was a really tiny hole in the wall shop at the basement of Daimaru in Kobe that did the best Maguro-toro with negi (shallots) and sesame dressing…. it was cheap and generous and best of all delish! did you happen to come across this one by any chance?

Hey Ella, great to hear from you, glad this brings back some delicious memories of eating in Osaka. Hmm, that sounds really good, but I don’t think I came across it. Makes me want to go back immediately to Japan for some more food!

Love your stuff. I was wondering do you have a Google Map showing all of your places you visited and/or ate. Something similar to the Tokyo Google Map which is an excellent resource!!

Hey King, thank you very much. Yes, I have a map: https://drive.google.com/open?id=10k7p7KofN6MeDywMbRIgz-icxYc&usp=sharing

Paulina Stock

I’m actually in Osaka now thanx to yr blog i know where to go and where to eat and yes I have the same reaction as you when having the first bite lol Thank you for the great work Mark Me and my husband really enjoy watching your you tube channel Don’t ever stop!

My Wife and I spent the last few days in Osaka eating what was probably the best meals of our lives thanks to your blog post. Many thanks and great work!

Hi Weiyi, that’s awesome to hear, glad you had such a great trip!

tahra hamilton

Mark God Bless you!! you make my days very interesting and you always leave me hungry!! Keep up the good work this was great I watched every episode while you were in osaka! Much love and success to you!!

Michael Chen

Hi Mark Me and a group of friends have decided to go Japan and were confused with transportation and im curious of what you did. We are deciding whether or not to purchase a railways pass or not but we are not sure if it is worth it. So i was wondering how much did transportation cost for you in this trip. Also was it hard getting over the language barrier. Thanks for the videos and this blog 😀

Hi Michael, good to hear from you. I didn’t buy a train pass, because I only took short train rides from Osaka to Kyoto and Kobe, but didn’t go further than that. If you plan to do more extensive long distance travel pretty quickly, I think it may be a good idea to buy a pass. For language, it’s not too hard as long as you’re not in a rush and have time to look at the signs thoroughly – there will usually be English signs if you look. Hope you have an amazing trip!

Greetings to you from Toronto. Its been great spending all this time following you and Ying to Tokyo/Osaka/Kyoto with all your fantastic informative insights. No question you are a lover of food in all its many, many forms. My wife and i have to turn away from watching you and take a time out because you make us salivate so much. Its just too much to bear for the hunger. We have to wait till beginning of May when we will be in Japan for a 14 day eating bonanza. Byeee for now.

Hey Ronnie, great to hear from you, awesome that you’ll be going to Japan soon!

Traveling to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka next month. Thanks for the food bucket list.

Hey Rienk, awesome to hear that, hope you have an amazing trip!

Thanks for the tips Mark! I recently took a trip to Osaka and tried Tokisushi near Kuromon Ichiba market based on your recommendation. Needless to say, it was delicious!

Hey Jonathan, you’re welcome, glad it was helpful!

Catherina Brandenburger Ko

We are planning a trip to Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe. My husband and I are both chef de cuisine, living in Luxembourg, Europe. Just border to France!

We have a little sampling of Japan last September, for 4 days only but simple fall in love to Japan. We have been to the Tuna auction in Tsukuji fish market. 10000 yen of taxi ride plus got up at 2:30 am are totally worth it. My 10 years daughter choose this over Disney Tokyo….My girl Aiko want to visit visit the Wasabi farm but later we found that Osaka region is also full of culinary adventure, so we are planning to do that this year.

Anyway, notice that you are into cooking? Eating! We know that we can count on your food guide! You are such a blessed people live in Thailand which it has the probably the most interesting cuisine.

Thanks for your blog, review and suggestion….and your Eating!

loic drezet

Hello Mark,

Thank you very much for this superb and detail blog. I’m going with my wife in March to Osaka and a bit of saliva fell on the computer while reading your blog!! Just one question, do you think that a Ramen broth can be vegetarian or not? Do you have this option when you order on the machine? thank you for your answer!

Hey Mark! I’ll be going Kyoto, Osaka and Wakayama this April and without a doubt I’ll be following your food guide! by the way, where is the juicy fried chicken location?

Will be in Osaka mid February. Will bookmark this blog and use it as a guide. More power to you Mark! Keep those blogs coming! 🙂

Thank you Tristan, hope you have a great upcoming trip to Osaka!

Tyler Magl’s

Mark, Keep up the good work I’ve spent that last 2 hours watching your Burma/ Japan movie! rad brother!

Thank you very much Tyler!

Hi Mark. I love foods so much, and I have watched many of your videos. I’m appreciated for your hard work and effort. Not sure if you are a big fan of Chinese foods, you should go visit Guangzhou, China. Different varieties of the delicious foods, dim sum (most famous in the world), street foods, attractions around and inside the city, and lots of shopping centers would definitely make it a worth place for visiting.

Born in Suzhou, China Live in Hangzhou, China Eat in Guangzhou, China Die in Liuzhou, China

Hey Cody, thank you very much for your support. I’m a huge fan of Chinese food as well. I’m hoping to spend some time in China in the future!

Going to Osaka in late Jan 2016. I’m familiar with Tokyo but not Osaka and Western Japan. My wife loves to watch your Youtube blogs, especially the looks of food orgasms. : P Thanks for the list! Now I know where some of the known good places are.

Thank you very much Yuletak, hope you have a great upcoming trip to Osaka!

Violet Lavender

Hi Mark! I’m planning my trip to Japan and was googling for must-eats in Osaka and came upon your amazing post!! It’s so comprehensive and colourful all the photos. Thank you for writing all the tips; you’ve now convinced me to visit Osaka longer than I planned. I had no idea it was such a foodie city!! 🙂 Happy Eating! ^^ Cheers, Violet

i watched all your video from osaka , kyoto , kobe its very enjoy your video . good job well done

Thank you very much Jason!

We literally just booked our trip to Osaka because of you! We will be in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe during Christmas and New Years period, super excited! Your blog and youtube videos are both my food bible!

Thanks Mark and keep up the good work!

P.s If you ever visit Bali, I’ll wrote you some local street food recommendations.

Stacy Horton

After following your blog and youtube channel for the last few months in the lead up to our Japan holiday, today was finally the day my wife and I embarked on our “Mark Wiens Recommended Day” in the Osaka region. First up was yakiniku lunch at La Shomon in Kobe which was amazing! The staff were very happy when we told them we’d come from Osaka specifically to eat at their restaurant and we showed them their own photo in your blog ( http://migrationology.smugmug.com/Japan-2015/i-rG6DM5N/0/X3/kobe-beef-japan-1-X3.jpg ). After a train ride and a few hours walking around Himeji Castle (so many stairs), we headed back on the Shinkansen and metro to Shinsaibashi to hunt down Ikkaku. We ordered the same things as you except only young chicken and we were not disappointed. I am a huge fan of chicken in all it’s forms but this was just perfection. After finishing all the plates, even though I was feeling full I had to order another piece of young chicken or I knew I would later regret not doing so. We have another few days left in Osaka before we head to the Gifu region and we’ll be trying to visit both Harukoma Sushi and Chayamamchi Maguroya since we’re both huge sushi/sashimi fans. When we get back to Tokyo we have a few more of your recommendations to visit as well.

Thanks for maintaining your blog, it’s such a great source of information for those of us who, like yourself, feel that food is the best reason to travel!

Hey Stacy, so cool, thank you very much for sharing, and I’m so happy you enjoyed the food. Thinking about that beef and that chicken have my mouth watering right now. Have a great remaining time in Osaka, and enjoy that sushi for me!

Awesome guide!! Thank you!

Hey Sharon, you’re welcome, glad it’s helpful.

Sangeet Pradhan

Love your Channel Man!! Good to know there are Food Lovers like you 🙂 . You Rouse To great Heights with your passion 🙂 !! Cheers Mate!!

Thank you very much Sangeet!

I had an incredible dinner at Harukoma last year and I’m glad you featured it in your blog. The wait was long but it was so worth it. I had one of the sushi set and the egg omelette sushi (tamagoyaki) was superb! I found that Osaka food generally has a richer taste than food in Kyoto and Tokyo, which suited me more. I’ll be sure to check out some of the places you’ve suggested in my next trip to Japan.

Hi Mark! I watched all of your Japan-related Youtube videos in preparation for my trip. The videos are so helpful and entertaining. You have a knack for choosing the best words to describe food. Thank you for making and posting the videos.

9 years ago

Hello Mark! Love your blog, very informative and I adore your visuals 🙂 We recently launched the world’s first online platform called visit.org, where you can book tours and activities with nonprofits, and at the moment we are giving away our cookbook with recipes from nonprofits for free to everyone who signs up here http://bit.ly/1WESVQ1 ! We would be honored if you could check our recipes! 🙂 Thanks!

maja knezevic

Thanks for delicious recepes and presentation..Are there reasonable priced Kobe beef restaurants in Bangkok?

Marg Mitchell

Hi Mark great info OSAKA food scene looks fantastic. We are traveling from Australia to Japan next year for the first time but my vegetarian food loving husband is starting to freak out with all these pictures of sushi….whats the menu for vegos?

Great list and can’t wait to try the food – going to print this list out to check off during my trip. Heading to Osaka from November 30th to December 4th! #foodexcursion

I’m moving to Osaka next week and cannot wait to get through this whole list. Thanks so much, lots of great ideas for eating out already 🙂

Wilard Monserrate

Yummy..:) Its my favorite foods..thanks for share great information on Japanese foods..Many of times I go to japan..i love the country, people and food also! one’s again in Japanese (どうもありがとうございます)

I will be heading to Japan for the first time and a foodie like me has hooked up to your blog and videos..! Thanks to your work I have clearer picture what to anticipate..Awesome work! Japan here I come!

Hey Shirley, great to hear you’ll be visiting Osaka soon. Glad this guide will help. Hope you have an amazing trip and enjoy all the delicious food.

Abhilasha Trivedi

Wow! The mouth-watering dishes are just amazing! All thanks to your great and informative post that whoever plans to visit Japan will know very well about the multiple dishes that one can try. Wonderful photographs are like icing on the cake!

Thank you very much Abhilasha, really appreciate it.

I am freaking starving now – thanks, good to know that Osaka is more than sushi and rice!

Hey Adam, thank you for reading, glad this post made you hungry!

hi Mark, You should change Sanshu Udon to Sanshyu Udon. Sanshu means 3 kinds, and Sanshyu is romantic ways to call Kagawa prefecture. Kagawa’s other nick name is Udon prefecture. Also Koga Ryu should be Kouga. Koga is usually family name and Kouga is the area that known by home town of ninja. Izakaya at Namba is Shimotaya. http://r.gnavi.co.jp/k507241/lang/en/

Hi Toro, thank you very much for your useful input. Ok, I will get that changed now. Appreciate the help!

What a fantastic review! Thank you so much for sharing your experience in Osaka. You visited good restaurants which I would like to share to my foodie friends. I promote Japanese food culture here in Australia, run Washoku lovers community, and I’m from OSAKA:) So glad you love my home country! Thanks again:))

Hey Yuri, great to hear from you, thank you very much. What part of Japan are you from? Do you go back to visit often?

Michael Leahy

Thanks Maks for such a wonderful blog, your photographs almost bring the food alive. I recently spent a week touring the Kansai area with Osaka as my accommodation centre. You make it all look so simple…….. For more “wonderful sources of information” may I suggest that people also watch your YouTube video – Best Sushi So Far and a Quick Visit to Nara……. ((PS… the Isuien Garden was worth the 900Y fee, perhaps next time?)) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBS7j4X49Ng

Hi Michael, thank you very much, really appreciate it. Glad you just spent some time in the Kansai region as well – such an amazing place. Thank you for the tips, next time I’ll definitely go into the garden!

very nice and helpful blog and vlogs, after viewing so much on your youtube channel that has certainly sparked the idea to book a flight to osaka in 3 more weeks! as this is my first trip there i am very curious to taste what actual ramen or rather in general all kinds of the food in japan, as i am a regular fan of keisuke tonkotsu king in singapore. 😀 thank you

Hey Adelin, good to hear from you, and happy to hear you’ll be taking a trip to Osaka soon. Hope you have an excellent trip and enjoy the food!

Great article mark! I’ll checkout all of your recommendation

An EPIC food guide blog Mark. Amazing pics. Also I love your videos, we make a ritual of sitting down and watching them as soon as they come out. Keep up the great work

Hey Aaron, great to hear from you, thank you very much.

Edward Chin

This blog and video is very useful when planing a trip to japan, the yakiniku and the kobe beef looks so delicious. is there any other kind of beef that you could introduce to us? i’ve heard that japan have other even better beef than kobe beef! i really enjoy watching all the videos, thanks for giving out budget information for the travelers 🙂

Hi Edward, thank you very much and glad to hear this Osaka food guide is useful. Yes, I’ve also heard about the other wondrous kinds of Japanese beef available. Unfortunately I haven’t been able to try them yet, but on my next trip to Japan, that will be my goal! Thank you for your support.

I love your latest videos on Osaka! You should host your own travel show! Your passion for food is infectious!

Thank you very much Gwen!

Everything looks wonderful! I’m from Osaka living in LA. Next time I go back I want to go to all the places you went! Great job Mark!

Thank you very much Yoshi!

Amaresh Hazare

Just all is a big WOW!!! love it all…amazing 🙂

Darshan Kapadia

Hey Mark, I am really a big fan of you. I am going to visit Japan next month for two weeks and specially Osaka for 3 days. I am really excited about my trip now and I want to some food what you listed here.

Thanks Mark…

Thanks for this awesome post Mark! I’m heading to Japan next month from Australia and this will be a great guide 🙂

We’re landing in Tokyo and will slowly make our way to Kyoto and Osaka! Can’t wait to eat!!!!

Always love to see your youtube VDOs!

Amazing post !!! everything looks incredible omg i really love sushi

Hi Mark, It’s such a wonderful experience to read your blog and watch the videos , it inspires me to travel for food. But how do you manage to be so fit after eating . You look so fit in the videos.

Thanks, Aqheel

Hey Aqheel, good to hear from you, and I’m glad you love to travel and eat as well. A for staying fit, I try to stay away from sweets, most drinks other than water and coffee, and also mostly packaged / processed foods. Other than that, I also love to exercise and keep active, and also probably a bit just runs in my family.

Thank you again for your support!

And further to my previous comment, I found a website describing the izakaya where you went for your last bite in Osaka: https://www.kansaiscene.com/2015/08/foodspotting-13/

Apparently it’s very good! Take care!

This is one of the best place you have been to & I’m full after dinner but my mouth is watering after today’s video. Keep up the great work mark ☺watching your upload is a highlight of my evening’s.

Thank you very much Ahmed!

Mark, thanks for the blog and videos. They’ll be very helpful for our upcoming trip! By the way, as far as I can tell, the name of the izakaya you went last in Osaka in Doguyasuji is Shimotaya. I hope this helps!

Hey Luigi, great to hear from you, and thank you very much for the information about the last Izakaya restaurant, really appreciate that, and I will update the guide. We had no idea where we were going on that last night, and most of the izakaya’s were all full at that time because it was right around 7 pm when we went… luckily that place had 3 empty seats and we jumped on them. It was fantastic. Again, thank you for the helpful information.

Just some guy

Really well written and entertaining read, Mark. Just wanted to say, as a stressed college student, watching your daily vlogs are always a highlight of my day. It’s almost like I’m travelling the world with you. Now, that you’ve conquered Japan, where are you headed to next?

Really cool to hear from you, and thank you for watching our videos and reading the blog. Not sure yet, but I’d like to go to Indonesia soon.

Hi Mark! Thank you for introducing Japanese food. Please put soy sauce on a natto roll and negitoro. It is more delicious if I　you attach soy sauce

Hi Osamu, thank you very much, and thank you for the tips as well. Ok, will do for next time for sure!

sorry the link was wrong

※　http://golden-zipangu.jp/japan-foods/

sorry again Although I tried to upload the link even doing many times couldnt indicate correctly. so forget it. thank’s.

Hi Keiko, ….your link works fine if you highlight it then copy and paste it http://golden-zipangu.jp/japan-foods/

In addition to above although the explanation is in Japanese, you can emagine regional foods from those pics.

and we have not only regional foods but also many kinds of Japanese traditional sweets and sake, ume-syu (Japanese plum wine), sake shochu which is clear liquor distilled spirits from sweet potatoes, rice, buckwheat, etc. or onsen all over Japan.

Thank’s for introducing lots of Japanese cuisine. I’m from Osaka, so glad you came and tried many good foods there. When you eat takoyaki in Osaka next time, please ask if they have tako-sen, wihich is cheap snack for kids or students who don’t have enough money. it looks similar a Mexican taco and convenient daily snack for ordinary people in Osaka. like a hot dog or taco. ※please take a look at tako-sen ↓ https://www.google.co.jp/search?q=tako-sen&hl=ja&tbm=isch&imgil=ZZd3DKXfOoyMyM%253A%253B4beWs2mlxa7aDM%253Bhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fumi2tsukuba.wordpress.com%25252F2008%25252F06%25252F17%25252Fkaroushi%25252Fcimg2485%25252F&source=iu&pf=m&fir=ZZd3DKXfOoyMyM%253A%252C4beWs2mlxa7aDM%252C_&biw=1280&bih=611&usg=__jqF5nZ-WyPMuteWXyNjt44L-tkQ%3D&ved=0CF4QyjdqFQoTCIzzm-aOqsgCFcKYlAodcdEKYw&ei=wckRVsyOB8Kx0gTxoquYBg#imgrc=ZZd3DKXfOoyMyM%3A&usg=__jqF5nZ-WyPMuteWXyNjt44L-tkQ%3D

also I reccomend you to try monja at Tsukishima area which is near Tsukiji fish market in down town Tokyo. Tsukishima is a famous area of lots of monja restaurants on the streets. I know it doesn’t look good,but so tasty. I’m sure you ‘d love it. 　 ※monja ↓ https://www.google.co.jp/search?q=%E3%82%82%E3%82%93%E3%81%98%E3%82%83&hl=ja&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0CAkQ_AUoAmoVChMIxp_M6JKqyAIVCpCUCh0rCANM&biw=1280&bih=611

you might know we have a big diffrent taste of food between Osaka and Tokyo, or east and west of Japan. especially, soup broth of udon or soba and tamago-yaki which is kinda Japanese square formed omlet. please find out when you try them next time.

※tamago-yaki ↓ https://www.google.co.jp/search?q=%E3%82%82%E3%82%93%E3%81%98%E3%82%83&hl=ja&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0CAkQ_AUoAmoVChMIxp_M6JKqyAIVCpCUCh0rCANM&biw=1280&bih=611

At the end, we have not only ramen or sushi but also more different kinda Japanese regional cuisine all over Japan from north to south. when you have opportunities to visit there, please try some of them or more. ※Japanese regional cuisine ↓ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_regional_cuisine .

thenk’s for reading long comments. I hope you enjoy your travel and foods as much as you could to introduce for foreign tourists of Japan.

Thank you very much for the kind and thoughtful message, and for sharing all the extra things to eat. I still have so much to come back to Japan for to eat!

Next time I visit Japan I’d really love to visit some other regions and explore the local food, and especially get out of the main cities and be more in the countryside.

Thank you again for all your help!

Hi Mark, video and foods look so insanely good. I enjoy and thank you so much.

Thank you very much Nui!

great as always. Tomorrow my wife and me will fly to Japan. Yakushima and Tokyo. Yoshihashi is on the list! We would never know this place without you so thank you very much. A few lines down, you wrote that you like to visit Germany sometimes. From my side it would be very cool if you and your wife want to stay in our house for a few days. Of course for free. We live near Frankfurt. You can go there directly by train. So if you plan something around Frankfurt and want to safe the money for the hotel let me know 😉 You got my Email now. Please keep up doing what you do. We love to watch.

Hi Daniel, good to hear from you, and glad you’ll be going to Japan soon. Thank you very much for the invitation to Germany and to stay at your place, really appreciate it. Will definitely remember if we make it to Germany. Have a great time in Japan, and greetings to your wife.

Japan has so many awesome things going for it, but the food is definitely my highlight!!

Hi Rebecca, glad to hear you love the food!

Thank you very much for all those wonderful post you are sharing. your fun from the Philippines

Thank you very much Sonia!

Bryan Herrarte

Hola Mark and ying

I wonna talk about that restaurant that had fried stuff on sticks.. I really think that pieces of breaded chicken breast would of been Perfect whit all of those delisious fried goodys. I didint understand Why not the double dip Buddy :/ it was yours and ying’s right?

รัก-สา-สุก-ขะ-พาบ-ด้วย-คะ

Hey Bryan, Great to hear from you, thank you very much for your support, Ying and I appreciate it. As for the sticks, I believe it’s because the sauce is communal and shared between many people. But they also had cabbage on the side that you could dip into the sauce to get more sauce and then add it to your skewer. Thank you again!

I came across your blog series as we are Taiwanese and the videos you produced during your stay was excellent. Homesick!

This is one of the best food blog post I have ever seen.

Keep up the great work. Hopefully one day, you could arrange a trip to Vancouver, BC, Canada. Great foodies here as well.

Hi Lawrence, nice to meet you, and thank you very much for reading my blog. My sister went to University in Vancouver and I went to visit her once, about 12 years ago now, and I loved it. I would love to go back again, the mix of food available in Vancouver amazing. Thank you again for your support.

Love all the photos and videos you made on Osaka and Tokyo. Some of these food places recommendation, especially the diners, really help me in planning my November trip to Osaka and Kyoto! We’ll definitely check out the takoyaki places and the diners you visited!

-Best regards from California

Hi Mandy, thank you for the comment, and glad this food guide is helpful for planning your upcoming trip to Japan. Hope you have a great trip!

The photography is amazing and this blogpost was so informative! Need to go to Japan someday

Thank you very much Sophie, really appreciate it.

Hey Mark, I am a avid follower of your articles and youtube. You’ve been such a inspiration for foods to try when i’m in Japan (i’m there next week for 3 weeks!!) I wanted to do a food tour but they were to expensive so a friend of mine suggested I make a list of foods and go out and find them during my trip..so without you the list would be quite short. Thank you!!

Hi Marie, thank you for the comment and really appreciate your support on the blog and watching our videos. Glad you’re in Japan now, enjoy the food!

Mark your videos just make my whole family drool and you know my son likes you so much , he is 10 years old and makes the Mark food orgasmic expression. Hope you and Ying makes some kids to carry on the great work you do. Best of luck

Hi Irwin, haha, thank you very much, and so cool to hear about your son. We’re hoping to have some kids in the future, I hope. Greetings to your whole family, and thank you all for watching our videos.

Thanks so much for all the helpful info and videos !! Really enjoyed them. We gonna be in Osaka and Tokyo in 4 weeks , really excited to try all these food!!

You’re welcome Lyle, thank you for watching and following. Have a great trip to Osaka!

Thank you for such a fantastic post! I have been watching each one of your Osaka videos. I can’t wait until I go to Osaka myself! Is there anywhere in particular you’d suggest? 🙂

Hi J, good to hear from you, thank you for watching our videos. Osaka in general is a really nice city, but a good area to base yourself, for transportation / food / entertainment is around Umeda or around Namba. Thanks!

Hi Mark! I love watching all your videos! Especially the ones about japan. My friend and I are leaving for japan in November, so we’ll make sure to stop at some of your recommendations. The kobe beef on top of our list ;D. Thanks for the blog.

Hey Emilie, thank you very much, and that’s great news you’ll be going to Japan soon. Hope you have a great upcoming trip, and thank you for watching our videos.

Great blog post! I hope to travel to Japan one day and experience all of the delicious food that you had. Keep up the great blog posts, they are much appreciated. Safe travels and God bless you and Ying!

Hey Koopy, thank you very much, really appreciate it!

Chanthi Sreng

I love watching your YouTube videos! Those are all the foods that I love eating. My girlfriend laughs when I make the orgasmic expressions when I enjoy my meal. Also I have a man crush for you.

Haha, thank you very much Chanthi, and so glad you can’t resist the delicious faces!

I love watching your videos! I’m traveling to Japan with my boyfriend in the winter, and we’re definitely using your videos and your blog posts as a guide 🙂 Thanks for creating such awesome material!

Hi Yuan, nice to meet you, and thank you very much for watching our videos. Good news that you’ll be visiting Japan soon as well. Hope you have an amazing upcoming trip!

Always been watching your vids, love your pictures. The pictures looks amazing mark. Surprised you have time to take pictures and capture your moments via video. ! btw, how easy is it to communicate in english in japan? i want to go Osaka one day.. and vist the castle…as well as the tuna place you went to in the market. Your one of the peeps which gives a true representation how places look like how locals eat as well as reviewing delicious and reasonably priced food. keep up the good work mark!

Hi Timmy, thank you very much for your kind and encouraging words. As for communication, sometimes it definitely can be challenging, but I think the main thing to do is just go for it, and just take your time figuring things out slowly, and also be very flexible. Sometimes I had no idea what I was ordering at restaurants, but it always turned out good in the end. In Japan most of the signs are Romanized, so you can usually find signs to the place you need to go. You will be fine when you go!

Wow! Everything looks so good! Can’t wait to eat all that great food, we leave for Japan next Wed!

Thank you Lynn, have an amazing trip to Japan!

IS there a video on harukoma?

Hey G, it’s still coming, will be on Day 12 of the Osaka videos.

Hi, Mark ! Awesome food ! I love the passion that you have in what you do ! Keep up the good work !

Thank you Emanuel

Cristina &Vo Tran

My husband and I love your video and vlogs! You have such an honesty to your reaction to everything you eat, keep up the awesome work!

Nice to meet you Cristina & Vo,thank you very much for following, really appreciate it.

Hey Mark, the timing of your videos could not be any better as I’m making the trip to Japan tomorrow and will be in Osaka next weekend! I look forward to trying all these places but most of all La Shomon!! keep up the good work and I hope it’s easy to make a reservation for that heavenly beef 😀

Hi Ellis, thank you very much, and so cool to hear you’re going to Japan tomorrow. Hope you have an amazing trip and enjoy all the food!

Thanks you for sharing the amazing food in Japan. I enjoyed your vlogs and blog. :):):) But Mark, is it possible if you can do a video or post a blog, if not a reply regarding how are you able to plan your whole trip in Japan on a tight budget? I am a college student and really want to visit Japan. What would you recommend? Thanks you. 🙂

Hi Julia, that’s a great question, and I will try to write a few more posts regarding this. Definitely Japan is not the cheapest place, but I think food and attractions can be affordable, and so the main expenses are accommodation and transportation. Will write more soon. Thanks!

Viettiep Phan

Look naturally gorgeous. The food is extremely fresh but the price is so high. I can’t go to Japan now but I enjoyed this amazing food from your video. Thank you. |(From Viet Nam)

Thank you very much Viettiep

Next summer, I planned to visit Japan for two weeks, with about 5 days in Osaka. Initially I thought that it might be too long to stay almost a week in Osaka, but after seeing all this delicious food available, I’m starting to think 5 days won’t be enough! THANK YOU MARK for this very informative and interesting read.

Hey Morris, if you enjoy eating, you’ll be able to keep yourself very busy and happy for the full 5 days in Osaka. Hope you have an amazing trip!

Mark, I am a long time viewer of your YouTube channel and this is my first post. Like many of your viewers, I long to travel and experience all that the cultures and countries I travel to have to offer. You have allowed me to live vicariously throughout your travels and have given me countless hours of enjoyment. Your Osaka trip was no different! I wish you all the foodie joy that this world has to offer! Safe journeys! -Mike

Hi Mike, thanks for stopping by and for watching our videos for so long. Glad you enjoy traveling, learning about other cultures, and food as well. Thank you for all your support!

Thanks Mal!

Hello! Thank you very much for coming to Japan Please come again from Japan

Thank you Chizuru, I hope to come again!

Victoria@ The British Berliner

Absolutely marvellous! It’s almost 23:00 in Europe and even though I had a hearty dinner I began to crave some Japanese titbits. And you’re so right about travelling to a destination just because of the food.

Last year, I took my husband and son to Thailand, Inodnesia & Korea, and all our son could think of was having “real” sushi. And so we did! He’s very into Japanese culture at the moment and ihas been learning a bit of Japanese LOL!

Hi Victoria, thank you, and glad we share the same view that it’s worth traveling for the food. Also, cool to hear your son enjoys sushi, fantastic!

Sawadeekap !!!

Thank you very much for a GREAT INFORMATIVE about Food in OSAKA. You also have a GREAT PICTURES !!!

Looking at your pictures, make my saliva drooling !!!

Since I am a Muslim, I don’t eat pork. As for beef and chicken only the ones that being slaughtered accordingly I can eat. So my question is:

1) I really like Oden … but I am not quite sure what type of soup based they are using. With my limited vocabulary , it seems that the Oden is meatfree based … do you know what are the ingredients for the soup based?

Thank you !!!!

Hi Ghazali, nice to hear from you, glad you enjoyed this food guide. For oden, I’m not fully sure, and it could vary, but I think it’s typically dry fish stock, but not meat. However, like in the one pictured, they did have beef skewers cooking in the broth. I didn’t do too much research when I was in Osaka, but I believe there are many Halal restaurants. Are you able to eat most seafood?

Hope this helps, and hope you’re able to visit Osaka in the future.

I watched all your Osaka videos and it makes me want to go there myself so so badly. Japanese cuisine is well-known of its quality, everyone knows about that and say the same about it. Often hear people saying, just walk into any random restaurant/cafe in Japan, it will be good. Hard to find something that taste bad.

But to be honest, yes, the price is what stopping me. I know it is going to be worth it but then, still have to save more and perhaps one day go on impulse, like you!

Thank you for bringing us around Osaka (virtually), I hope one day it’s my turn to come.

Continue to great work! Cheers from Singapore.

Hi Viola, great to hear from you, thank you very much for watching. I understand about the price. I had wanted to visit Japan for many years before going for the first time as well, and it was largely because I had to save up before going. However, even though it can be expensive, I think there are really some great deals on food, and also for accommodation we rented an Airbnb apartment for 4 of us, and it cost $80 per night – so that’s pretty good for 4 people. And also, I think if you try to visit many cities in Japan quickly, that’s when things get really expensive, but if you choose to just stay around the Osaka area, it’s much more affordable. Hope this helps, and hope you can visit Japan in the future.

Love your work but must draw the line at RAW chicken!! If you ate that in Wales you’d be on the toilet for a week! Anyway keep up the good work. I’m visiting Thailand in November. If I spot a good eatery I’ll let you know Regards Gareth

Hey Gareth, thank you very much, haha, no raw chicken for me in Wales! Have a good upcoming trip to Thailand, thanks!

Wow this is really a food site, amazing photos, which are all so inviting. Thank you for replying me (koma11sen on youtube) often, I really hope I can visit Osaka in the near future! So many cool places I had never experienced in Tokyo. I will share youru blog on my fb! Kuidaore? May not be a too bad reason for bankrupcy… your tummy gets satisfied :p Keep up your good work! izumi

p.s. my friend wanted to know which editing program you use for vlogs, they are really awesome x

Hi Izumi, nice to hear from you, thank you very much for watching our videos. I use Adobe Premiere CC for editing.

your pictures of food are so tantalizing, I just wanna gulp down everything. I was in Tokyo and Akita when I was in Japan, I remember Tokyo being very expensive, I was plagued with indecision when I have to eat. Osaka prices seems a bit more reasonable.

I saw your video on your arrival and the chicken sashimi, I kept thinking how can you eat raw chicken at 3am when your stomach is half a sleep and hungry.

I am so happy for you and your wife able to go anywhere on the spirit of the moment, and enjoy life’s every niceties. I certainly found joy just watching it.

Hi Mary, thank you for reading and for watching our videos. I think overall Osaka is a bit more affordable than Tokyo, and I especially found that with accommodation as well. Haha, oh yah that 3 am chicken sashimi!

Yu.Cey Chang

I find your recommendations on food very interesting.When I am in Japan I shall visit and taste all what you written about. Regards, YC

Hi YC, thank you very much!

Gil Patrick Erica

Great Blog and Videos, haha hopefully I can visit the restaurants you visited hehe

Keep it up! mate

Thank you Gil!

Hey Mark, excellent videos and blogs. My buddies and I love watching your videos! Keep up the great work and safe travels to you and your wife. Your “job” along with your work ethic are awesome! #untilTheNextVideo

Hi Lee, thank you very much, really appreciate your support. Greetings to your friends as well!

Great post and videos! I have really enjoyed! I recommend the following very small restaurant as Kappo. http://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270401/27017867/ You can enjoy Japanese dishes at reasonable prices there. But the staff cannot speak English and serve of foods may be slow because a cook is only one. And… The box sushi is Hako-zushi not Kako-zushi. It’s a typo.

Hi Peter, thank you very much. Excellent, thank you for the Kappo recommendation as well, would love to visit when I visit Osaka next time. Will fix that typo now.

Perfect timing! I am heading off to Japan for 3 weeks in March/April (including Osaka to watch the sumo tournament) and this guide is just great.

Hi Fabian, great to hear that. Oh excellent, have a fun time in Osaka and enjoy the sumo tournament.

Jeunesse Raymundo

Thank you for documenting my next food trip! Question here from Cali, is Kobe beef gamey at all? I’ve had American Wagyu but I wasn’t a fan, but it could be the restaurant and how it was prepared. I like prime beef aged less than 28 days, not too strong. I watch every video, thank you so much for your hard work.

Hi Jeunesse, thank you very much for watching. In my opinion I didn’t taste any gaminess (a little perhaps in the dry aged meat mentioned), but not in the typical bbq yakiniku style. It’s more of a mild beef flavor, but an extremely buttery texture, paired with the beef oils and juiciness. Are you planning to go to Japan soon?

Jeffrey Tan

Hi Mark, This is awesome. Thanks for sharing as my family will be visiting Osaka form 28 March to 5 April next year for the Sakura experience. We certainly love Japanese Food and you sharing is most helpful to us. Anyway we can download this information onto PDF format as I want it stored into my ipad when I visit Osaka? Thanks Mark.

Hi Jeffrey, glad you’ll be visiting Osaka next year, and I think during Sakura will be a wonderful time. I haven’t yet had the time to make this into a PDF, but perhaps I’ll put that together in the next few weeks. Thanks!

Amogh Phadke

you are not new to my family. I have been following you for a long time. Your video blogging has tempted me and my wife to Visit Japan. My wife wants to visit Osaka first because she thinks she knows Osaka In & out thanks to you :). We both are waiting for you to make some VLOG on united states visit, it will give us different perspective :).

Hi Amogh, thank you very much, and glad you and your wife would like to visit Japan and especially Osaka. When I visit the US next, I’ll try to do some vlogging. Greetings to your family and thank you all for watching our videos.

“マジックスパイス(Magic Spice Osaka)” http://bit.ly/1KJVAEv

When you feel like getting your kicks with spicy food, visit Magic Spice and have a bowl of their Indonesian-style soup curry where you will discover a new horizon of spices. The food might not be the same as what comes to your mind hearing “Indonesian-style”, but it’s still great.

Probably Magic Spice is one of the most renowned eating spots among spicy food lovers like you. To me, they surpass other averaged curry restaurants not only in spiciness but also depth of flavor (the exterior and interior of the place also goes far beyond others, by the way).

I’d have lunch at the place every day-off with my face towel for wiping water-fall-like sweat on my face while eating my favorite chicken soup curry at “Raputa” level – they categorize the spiciness into seven or more levels.

Their restaurant is located on Naniwa-Suji street which is a little bit far from Namba Station. They also have branches in Tokyo and Nagoya as well as Sapporo where their original restaurant is situated. Give it a shot.

Hi Yoiyoibei, thank you very much for the recommendation, that looks delicious. Unfortunately, we just left Osaka, but I will remember this place for next time. Thanks!

Mark, I’ve love your videos and blog. You inspired me to be a food blogger but I don’t know how to start. Hoping someday I can make it. Good luck to you and God bless.

Hi Jecterz, thank you very much, appreciate your support. Have you already started a food blog? If not, this post might help: http://migrationology.com/2015/04/how-to-start-a-travel-blog/ Thank you!

Hi Mark and Ying!

Thank you for Awesome food and traveling guide. I am a Japanese in north part of Japan. I always enjoyed your huge smile reaction to every foods. There are many foods with local character at many cities in Japan. I hope you and Ying will enjoy many foods and cultures in Japan.

Hi Jun, nice to meet you and thank you very much for watching our videos. We really enjoyed this trip to Japan, both the food and the culture. I hope to visit the northern part of Japan on our next trip!

Hi Mark, I am Christie from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Can you include coordinates for all the places you went? That would ease a lot of for us to find these places.

Would you blog on where you been visit?

I will be going to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara next year April.

Hi Christie, nice to hear from you. I’m working on a map right now, it’s not fully complete yet, which is why I didn’t yet include it, but as soon as I finish it, I’ll post it into this Osaka guide. I visited both Kyoto and Nara on this trip, but didn’t do too much, but I will be posting about it soon. Glad you’re going to Japan next year!

Loved all the vlogs Mark. I was in Osaka earlier this year. I’m glad you finally posted a video featuring okonomiyaki. In Dotonburi we ate it at a restaurant that had 4 different floors of chefs serving it! One of my favorite meals in Japan. Keep up the great work! -Ryan

Hi Ryan, good to hear from you. Thank you for watching all of our vlogs. Oh cool to hear about your okonomiyaki experience. Do you remember which restaurant you ate at?

It’s called Chibo. Check it out next time your in Osaka.

Thanks Ryan, will do.

Mark, all your videos make me smile, and I always feel glad for you. I went to Japan in May of Tokyo, and we did not know what to do until we stumbled across the first video I watched. It was the top 25 things to do in Japan, and that was like a tour guide for me! I wish I tried some of that Okonomiyaki, but enough about me. You are my favorite food blogger and it makes me feel famished even after a meal! Keep up there work Mark!

Hi Christian, nice to meet you and thank you very much for watching our videos. Glad you had a great previous trip to Japan, and enjoy the food. You can always try some okonomiyaki on your next visit! Thank you again for your support.

It’s always a delight to read your posts. Can’t wait to go to Japan next year! Will be keeping this guide handy!

Mike Torres

This is just one of the few (as well many other) reason Japan is on my bucket list. This county is “awesome!” Also come to New York City.

Cool to hear that Mike, I agree. Thank you, I would love to.

John O’Brien

Thanks mate. I have been dying to return to Japan for a food tour, but it is so big. .. The cities and a little daunting. Can you recommend a particular area to stay in osaka. … you know, well placed to access the places you have reviewed? Thanks. Always enjoy your work. John

Hey John, the two main hub areas of central Osaka are Umeda / Osaka Station, and the Namba Area. I stayed for a few days at each location, both are good, offer plenty of choices for food and things to do, and transportation all over the city and Japan. Thank you for following!

Sean Korshin

I don’t normally write reviews and such , but dude you are killing it. Your blogs and videos are fun, informative, and such great care and skill go into the editing. I went backpacking around Southeast Asia last year and soon I’m going to see more of Thailand and then do a couple of weeks in Japan. Your videos are like a godsend. Truly helpful. Your review of P’Aor in Bangkok basically made me buy a ticket to Thailand… Thanks so much and keep doing what you do! I expect you’ll have your own show on some travel network soon.

Hi Sean, thank you for the hugely encouraging comment, and I’m so glad to hear the videos and blog posts are helpful. Awesome that you’ll be coming back to Thailand again. How long will you be in Thailand? Will you be traveling more about SE Asia?

Thanks Ryan

Love your review Mark!! Will definitely try them when I’m going to Japan (hopefully soon!!). Keep on traveling and blogging.

Thank you very much Louis

Hi Mark, just want to say I’ve only stumbled across your videos recently, but I’ve fallen in love with them and have been eagerly watching every new update for a few weeks now (even went back and watched most of them all the way from early 2014) and your Tokyo and Osaka videos especially have inspired me to want to go travelling to japan myself to eat all the amazing food you’ve displayed for us! All the best, keep up the amazing work! (especially this latest blog post, the quality in both this and your recent Osaka videos are outstanding)

Hi Niall, great to hear from you, thank you watching our videos, and for checking out this guide. Glad to hear you’re eager to travel to Japan for the food!

Last year i was in Tokyo and there was a Japanese curry restaurant where you can pick the spicyness level from 1 -10! It’s called Curry House CoCo Ichibanya. I would recommend it for the next time. I ended up with level 9 but next time i will choose level 10 haha 🙂

Hey Mac, thank you for sharing. I’ve actually been to CoCo, but at a branch in Bangkok, and I think I went with something like an 8 or 9 as well, but should have gone for the 10 too. Next time for both of us!

christian andersen

love you blog, and your enthusiasm about food….happy birthday to me, im going to Osaka next week, and will try some of the places out, only problem is, that i can decided what to try…..im lost:-) -thaks for videos and great reviews….

Christian _ Denmark

Hi Christian, haha, traveling to Japan for the food is definitely a Happy Birthday moment. How long will you be in Osaka? And will you travel around Japan as well? Really depends on what type of food you’re most interested in, but I really recommend those first few sushi restaurants at the top of this Osaka food guide.

Jehan Motashaw

I just want to say your content is just getting better and better. You have had an action packed year so far from the Philippines to Taiwan and now to Japan. Kudos!! I eagerly await more vlogs from your next destinations as well.

Take care and best of luck to both Ying and yourself.

Regards, Jehan

Hi Jehan, thank you very much, we really appreciate your support, and I will tell Ying as well. Hope you have a great day!

Tenzing Thinley

Mark, we first watched your videos before our journey 19 months ago and they led us to many delightful food places. Kuala Lumpur was a treat. We also went to Japan and Taiwan for a month each-and we enjoyed some of the food you are enjoying too. Your amazing blog, still continues to deliver…enjoy!

Hi Tenzing, thank you for the comment and for watching our videos. Glad you enjoyed Kuala Lumpur, as well as Japan and Taiwan – so many great food destinations. Nice to see your blog and your story as well. Greetings to your family!

Tony Rocamora

Hi Mark Congrats for the blog and the youtube videos. Impressing level of detail, great pictures and data. Just a commment about you guys eating raw chicken (sashimi) . Amazed you are not afraid of possible health risks since chicken develops dangerous bacteria very easily. Not concerned?

Hi Tony, thank you very much. I wasn’t sure when I was eating it at the time, but just went with it. But since posting the video, many have re-assured me and others that the chicken production for sashimi grade chickens in Japan is handled in a much different way from chicken production in other parts of the world. So I think as long as you go to a specific chicken sashimi restaurant in Japan, it’s not a concern.

Magda & Sylvain

We can’t stop watching your videos over and over again! Problem is we get so hungry watching them. 🙂

Osaka will be our next stop in 2016 (already went to Tokyo last year).

Keep up the fantastic work and passion.

Greetings from Berlin,

Hi Magda & Sylvain, nice to meet you and thank you for watching our videos, we really appreciate it. Glad you’re planning another trip to Japan soon!

ohhh gosh. i have to bookmark this page!! the photos look great; i’m sure the food tasted better. definitely japan is one of priorities for travelling to in the next few years.

Thank you very much Gloria, hope you can visit Japan in the future!

Kelli Kuniyoshi

We leave for Japan in a few days and I am looking forward to some awesome eating!! I definitely enjoy your blogs and can’t wait to go back and participate in some kuidaore. I did get some helpful hints for my upcoming trip and can’t wait to try some of the places you have mentioned!

Hi Kelli, excellent, glad you’re going to visit Japan in a few days. Enjoy the food, and I hope you don’t spend all your money!

lester francis

That was a long but very easy to read blog post. Loads if good information and very good food shots. I do not get time to travel but it is because of people like you there are so many new things and places I get to see. I keep looking for new vlogs from you. Thank you and keep up the good work.

Hi Lester, thank you for reading, glad you enjoyed it!

Hey Mark! Always love your blog and always take recommendations from your videos if I am going to a new place which you’ve been to! I know you’ve been to Kuala Lumpur but please come again and have a meet and greet!

Hi Samia, thank you very much. Sounds good, definitely when we visit Kuala Lumpur again, we’ll let you know!

Evelyn Young

Mark and Ying, I love watching your food videos and my 4-year-old daughter is a huge fan too! She would rather watch you than Disney, Sesame Street, cartoons, or anything else 🙂 This blog post is amazing! Japanese food is so beautiful, like art work! I would love to visit there someday. Hey, next time you’re in the USA, please come to Oregon!

Hey Evelyn, we really appreciate it, haha, your daughter is awesome. Ok, next time we’re in the US, we’ll try to visit Oregon, would love to. Say hello to your family and give a big hug to your daughter from Ying and I!

First of all, I would like to Thank You for this Insightful and Beautifully Written Blog Post. I really enjoy reading it ( Actually I’ve read it TWICE to sink the information in really well ). Throughout my reading my mouth is actually watering and those photos My Goodness!

I just share your content in Twitter. I’m sure people will love it and find it useful to this content. Keep up the Awesome Work as you always do. Please remember your fans around the world are waiting More Super Awesome Stuffs from you. 🙂

Kindest Regards, Thiha Min

Hi Thiha, nice to hear from you, and thank you very much for reading and sharing this food guide. Haha, glad it made your mouth water. Nice to see your blog as well!

I’m very surprised you were in Osaka. I think you definitely enjoy Osaka and Kobe food. As I mentioned before, You love Kansai food more than Tokyo food. Because most of food are very delicious and cheap. But you still walk around expensive area, Shinsaibashi and Umeda, in Osaka. Next time you should walk around Tenma and/or Fukushima area in Osaka at night. You can find easily a variety of nice restaurants. I really recommend.

Hi Tadaharu, nice to hear from you, and thank you very much for the local recommendations. I will definitely remember for next time!

amazing blog Mark ! Hope to get back to Japan once i have the chance and taste all these yummy food !! Cheers ~ Keep all the updates coming man can’t wait for the rest of the vlogs 🙂

Thank you very much Jing!

Bruce Richardson

As always Mark a wonderful review! I love tuna in all it’s many wondrous forms and now you’ve made me drool all over myself! 🙂

Hah, thank you Bruce, that sounds about exactly like what I do when I think about tuna as well!

While I am not a huge fan of sea food other than shrimp, crab, and crawfish the dishes you all shared with us look very appealing. If I ever get the chance to travel to Japan I will give some of them a try the yakisoba and yakitori might suit my taste along with my favorite udon noodles. As always thank you Mark for such a lovely vlog/blog 🙂 y buenos dias

Hi Toki, good to hear from you, and glad some of the seafood dishes looked good to you as well. Even without the seafood, there are so many good specialities in Japan, I know you would enjoy it. Hope you have a great day also!

Hey Mark, I’m so glad you just did Osaka. I’ll be going there in early December, so I’ll definitely try some on your list with the limited time I have there… Cheers!

Hi Simon, thanks for reading and so good to hear you’ll be visiting Osaka soon!

love your videos and I enjoy watching it everyday!!!! thanks for the vlog!!

Thank you very much HQ

Best food blog ever!

Thank you for your support Carine

Hi Mark, By luck, I was also traveling in Osaka when you started releasing your vlogs ! Unfortunately I didn’t run pass by you during those days -I’m now back in Tokyo for additional days before going back to Paris-

As per your recommendation/video, I went to TayuTayu one night right after trying Kiji, for which I didn’t know you went there as well ! Kiji was packed when I went, so the staff and chief were under water, I had to wait 1.5 hours before getting served. But worth the wait anyway.

Anyway, back to TayuTayu, it was… incredible !! I had first ordered Set 2 of the Skewers, and the house specialty Meatballs. Man, I died on the spot eating these. The skewers were beautifully cooked and done, a real feast. So I also ordered Set 1 afterwards, which was on par with Set 2. I would have like to try more, but alone, it’s a bit difficult to eat more than that after a complete okonomikyaki as well haha I think the japanese menu has more choices but well…the Sets were already good choice to begin with. Anyway, great great location ! I also recommend for people interested. I would definitely go back there if I travel back to Osaka.

Hey Adelin, wow, this is amazing, thank you for sharing, and glad you had such a good time in Osaka as well. Glad you enjoy Tayu Tayu, a fantastic little place – such good food and friendly service. True about the menus, I was always wandering what we were missing out on with only half the menu in English, but nevertheless, such excellent food!

Cristbal Ford

Hi Mark ! Love your blog. ..and so much now that I am working for an International Boarding g School here in Canada .I am in charge of one of the Cooking Clubs .Most of the students coming g from Asia . Every Thursday is the class . Thanks a lot for show me such a big variety of Asian food …this week our recipe is a desert but I can’t wait to try to make sushi or one of those delicious kabbots! Gracias !

Hi Cristbal, nice to hear from you, thank you very much for reading. Glad you are in charge of a Cooking Club at the school, that’s sounds like a lot of fun and a good food experience. Enjoy the dessert and the sushi!

HI Mark ! A huge fan of your YouTube channel! This guide is very useful for my future trip! By far the best food blogs I’ve seen ! It’s very informative and yoh make it look so scrumptious ! Once again well done !

Hi Rima, thank you very much, we really appreciate it, glad this will be helpful on your future visit.

Hi mark, Thank you for the videos and blog.i really really enjoy watching it.????

You’re welcome, thank you very much for watching.

Oranuch Johansson

Dear Khun Mark and Khun Ying

Wonderful food! I have never been in Janpan but will do in near future. Japanese people is sooooo nice… I have a freind from Japan who lives in Bangkok and Sweden. Thank again for you nice video from Japan. I love Japan!

Hi Khun Oranuch, nice to hear from you, glad you’ll visit Japan soon, I think you will enjoy it. Hope you’re doing well!

Zachary Kleinbaum

I love your food travel logs Amazing work that you do Thanks so much always looking forwarding to seeing your videos on you tube

Hi Zachary, thank you very much for your support, really appreciate it.

Was planning my maiden trip to Tokyo, with a quick peak at Kyoto & Osaka. This writeup couldn’t have come at a better time after the mouth watering article on Tokyo.

Hey Ken, glad you’re planning a trip to Japan!

One of my top 5 vlogs series so far ! Many thanks for the blog and you vlogs, I really enjoy visiting these places through your eyes and taste buds 😉 !

I now know for sure where to land first if and when I’ll visit Japan ! I’m daydreaming about Kobe beef because of you… 😉

Keep enjoying yourself ! Best regards from France !

Hi Diego, thank you, really appreciate your support watching and reading. That’s a good choice for a first meal in Japan!

Mmmmm, Kobe Beef looks soooo yummy 😀

Thanks Joacim!

toh seng kit

planning to visit japan next year, love to hear about your blog, thank you very much.

Good to hear that Toh!

Thiago Mendonça

Hi! Awesome guide! I’m starving just reading it! One of my food / cultural travel destination dream is Japan, Osaka por food, Tokyo for tech and some smaller cities to dive into the ancient local culture. Now I have thanks to you, a lot of good places to visit when I finally take my vacation and make this trip. Thank you a lot and keep doing this awesome job.

Best regards from a fan from Brazil.

Hi Thiago, nice to hear from you, and that you’re planning to visit Japan in the future. That sounds like a good choices for places to visit. I haven’t had a chance yet to go to any smaller towns / villages, but that will definitely be on my list for next time I visit Japan as well. And I hope to visit Brazil in the future as well.

Mark, thank you for your Osaka and Tokyo Food Guide. Right timing too as I am thinking of going to japan next year, God permits. All those sashimi especially your picture of the UNI really made my mouth water. They looked so fresh and the tuna….UNBELIEVABLE!

Would you also have a tip where to stay at affordable places? I’d rather spend my money on the food rather than the accommodation as long as it is clean. I will be travelling alone and I just love Japanese food, not too much on the ramen though. I always look with anticipation whenever you post something. Next time, maybe you can organize a food tour in Japan and I’d be your first customer.

Hi Rosita, you’re welcome, glad this is helpful. Visiting Japan for the food is well worth it! The entire time we were in Osaka, we stayed at an Airbnb rental apartment for about $80 per night, but we were with 4 people, so it was really a good deal. For one person, not so good, but you could definitely give it a search. For Tokyo, my wife and I stayed at Oak Hotel, pretty good place on a budget. Thank you, a Japan food and travel tour would be really cool!

How do you eat so many yummy foods and still keep your figure!! Awesome blog!!! Love the photos! Going to definitely check out the vlog…..

Thank you Fela, we had to walk to all the restaurants!

Thanks a lot, Mark!! This is so helpful and I alr added this as my fav guide for my future traveling to Osaka????. I thought Kobe beef was very expensive, but I was surprised after I saw the prices at La Shomon. Definitel in the list of eating the luxurious delicious beef!

Hey Jenny, thank you very much, glad this is helpful, and hope you can visit Osaka in the future. La Shomon has extremely reasonably prices, one thing is because they are located a bit outside of the city (about 20 – 30 minutes from the center or Kobe), and they are catering to local a local crowd, instead of right in the middle of the city. It’s a fantastic restaurant.

Joschi Starke

Hello Mark and Ying! What can you say, migrationology.com is the best ever Food Guide. I am a very big fan of your YouTube videos and your Food Guide. I try to not miss any part of your blog. Each of a food lover, and likes to go on trips should look your blog. I wish you well, go on like this. I really admire everything what are you doing.

Thank you Joschi

Hi Joschi, I can’t thank you enough for all your support over the years. Also, thank you for the encouraging words!

This is awesome mark! Definitely worth checking out all of your recommendation

Thank you Arvin.

Bruno Gambini

Japan! Wow, it is sure a wonderdul country and with so much great food! From what you wrote and showed in the videos so far, the Kobe beef and the Japanese curry seem to be the best speacialties of Osaka. I did not know Ramen (Cup Noodles) was invented in Japan, I thought this instant food was from China. One question: is takoyaki the same thing as a Hong Kong dumpling? I have never eaten none of them, but as far as I could see, they look, to me, pretty much the same. Am I correct?

Hey Bruno, good to hear from you. The takoyaki are very different compared to Chinese dumplings. Takoyaki are more like pancake batter balls, and they are kind of runny inside and solid all the way through. Hong Kong dumplings, would typically be more of a noodle wrapper and filled with minced pork. So quite a bit different. Are you able to try Hong Kong dumplings where you’re living?

Graeme Kemp (Aussie expat in Canada) 46 yr old.

I just want to say Thankyou! I absolutely love watching your food trips, while I don’t travel much, your enthusiasm and joy with the places you go and the food you eat really make it as though I’m there with you. Your piece on Kobe and especially the Kobe beef really gave me joy and a need to try it…my mouth was watering as you were eating!

Please keep doing what you and Ying are doing, you make a great team and a total pleasure to watch.

All the best

Graeme Kemp (food blogger wannabe).

Hi Graeme, great to hear from you, and thank you for your support, for watching our videos and reading our blogs. Glad we share a passion for food and travel!

I’ve loved this series in Japan, although I’d probably knock down an old lady to get some of that tuna you were showing us. i don’t think there’s anything better than super fresh, amazing tuna sashimi.

Did you find the food a bit bland, compared to your normal garlic and hot chilies? Other than wasabi/horseradish, was there much spice?

Thanks for all the work you and Ying do on these videos and the blog. I get to travel with you, and that’s a wonderful thing.

Hey Missy, thank you for the comment. Haha, yah I would agree with you and the fresh tuna. Because Japanese food is so focused on the natural and fresh ingredients, I really love it, even though many things don’t have all that much spice. But yes, after 2 weeks in Japan, I was definitely ready to start eating some spicy food.

Hey Mark, You were not kidding when you said a huge blog!! I wish I had this when I had my trip to Japan. Unfortunately it did not have any of the restaurants that I went to so I could not share the experience. But MY GAWD everything looks so tasty.

p.s. I share your stuff with everyone I see. 🙂

Hey Dave, no problem, glad this brought back some food memories from Japan. Thank you very much for sharing!

This is brilliant. I’m flying from NZ to Osaka in 2 days time and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching your videos on Osaka. Now I can go and check out some of these places too. Thanks Mark 🙂 Itadakimasu!!

Hey Sam, thank you very much, and so cool to hear you’re going to Osaka in 2 days. How long will you be staying in Japan?

Thank you for the fantastic post! I’ll visit my friends in Osaka next week and I’m looking forward to the good food and good company -as usual- in Japan Especially I’m looking forward to the food my friends mother prepares when we are there… unbelievable and not possible to get here in Japanese Restaurants here in Germany I never ate the Curry style dishes you are mentioning… So good advise! I hope that you’ll get the opportunity to make some more trips to Non-Asian countries! Keep the good and interesting posts on Youtube! Thumb up! Regards from Germany Uwe

Hi Uwe, glad you’ll be visiting Japan soon as well. Yes, I’m really hoping to be able to take a European trip soon in the future. I would love to visit Germany. Have a safe and great trip!

viana copeland

looks incredible!!! Hope you enjoyed it – i enjoy watching the videos – A LOT !!! Thank you for the blog and vlog 🙂

Thank you very much Vina!

• Travel tips

Best Osaka Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Osaka, Japan

Besides trying all the traditional Japanese food in Osaka, there are a few must-try Osaka food that you should not miss. Many of these famous Osaka foods are affordable and can be found in the touristy areas of Dōtonbori, Namba, Umeda, and Shinsekai.

I spent almost a month in Osaka during my last trip and found many good food in the city so that I could compile a list of the best food in Osaka. So if you are planning a trip to Japan soon, follow my Osaka Food Guide and find out where and what to eat in Osaka for your upcoming trip.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

Tips for eating in Osaka, Japan

Before trying some of the best food in Osaka, take a look at my post on  everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included a lot of travel information, including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are a few additional tips for eating in Osaka:

• Be prepared to wait in a queue.  It could be 10 minutes to 2 hours. The best places to eat in Osaka ALWAYS have a queue.
• Most restaurants accept cash only , especially the small noodle shops where you must buy a ticket before sitting down.
• Bring your credit card,  as some places accept credit cards.
• Check the hours of operation  when you are eating in Osaka. Some restaurants are open for lunch only. Some are open for both lunch and dinner but breaks in between.
• Download Google Translate , an app that can translate Japanese to English. Some restaurants have Japanese-only menus, but most seem to have English menus. 
• Tipping is not required in Japan .

Best Osaka Food: Where and What to Eat in Osaka

I’ve been to Osaka a few times in the past few years, but it was the last trip that I really spent a significant amount of time in the city. Which means I had time to roam around Osaka to find all the best food in the city.

In this post, I listed all the famous Osaka food and where to find them in Osaka. Also, I included the hours of operation and Google Maps links to each Osaka restaurant and food outlet so you can easily find them.

Osaka famous snacks

What is Takoyaki: a savoury ball-shaped snack in Osaka. It is made with flour, eggs, and octopus, then topped with takoyaki sauce and dried bonito flakes. Each takoyaki is made into a perfect sphere with a metal ball-shaped pan.

Where to eat Takoyaki in Osaka:

• Takoyaki Wanaka (10:30am-9pm) – try the Ooiri 8-piece variety box with 3 flavours or the Takosen, where two octopus balls are sandwiched between Wanaka original rice crackers. There are many locations in Osaka; the Sennichimae location is the original store.
• Takoyaki Tamaya (11am-9pm; closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays) – their batter is made with 20 kinds of ingredients, including lobster dashi broth. Super yummy!
• Takoyaki Kukuru (11am-9pm) – popular takoyaki chain with many locations in Osaka. Their takoyaki has giant pieces of octopus sticking out.
• Takoyaki Market (11am-10pm) – there are 5 takoyaki outlets includes Takoyaki Kukuru.

What is Ikayaki: squid pancake, a regional specialty in Osaka. It is made with a savoury pancake batter and bite-sized pieces of squid. The dough is pressed between two iron plates, and sometimes an egg is added to the folded crepe. The result is a hearty and chewy pancake.

Where to eat Ikayaki in Osaka:

• Hanshin Meibutsu Ikayaki (10am-9pm) – the food outlet inside Snack Park at Hanshin Department Store in Umeda is very popular. There are four items on the menu. Use Google Translate to translate. I had the grilled squid (top left on the menu).

Benishouga-no-Tempura

What is Benishouga-no-Tempura : deep-fried Japanese pickled red ginger tempura. Thin slices of fresh ginger are marinated in plum vinegar before they are dipped in a batter and deep-fried. A great snack as-is and excellent when paired with alcohol.

Where to eat is Benishouga-no-Tempura in Osaka :

• Tempura Tarojiro (5-11:30pm Monday to Friday; 11:30am-11:30pm Saturdays and Sundays) – try fried red ginger from this yummy tempura restaurant.
• Mansai (9:30am-5:30pm) – a shop in Kuromon Ichiba Market that sells all kinds of fried fishcake, including red ginger in fishcake.
• Cooked food section at supermarkets – sometimes you can find fried benishouga at the supermarket.

Osaka Famous Food

Okonomiyaki.

What is Okonomiyaki: Japanese savoury pancake made with noodles, shredded cabbage, flour batter and various toppings, including seafood and meat. Then a copious amount of sauce drizzles directly on the pancake. Some restaurants cook okonomiyaki on a hot plate right before you at your table. So you get to eat a delicious meal and watch a show simultaneously!

Where to eat Okonomiyaki in Osaka:

• Okonomiyaki Kiji (11:30am-9:30pm; closed Sundays) – the Michelin Bib Gourmand recommended restaurant was founded in 1954 and serves okonomiyaki and “modern-yaki”. Get a number and queue outside. Everyone is seated at the same time, and all the savoury pancakes are cooked on the main flat grill.
• Okonomiyaki Mizuno (11am-10pm; closed Thursdays) – the line moves fast at this Michelin okonomiyaki restaurant in Dotonbori.
• Tsuruhashi Fugestsu (11am-11pm) – a restaurant chain with many locations in Osaka. They make your okonomiyaki at your table.
• Kyabetsu-yaki (10am-8pm) – cheap okonomiyaki in Namba for take away only.
• Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street during Tenjin Matsuri – Hashimaki is okonomiyaki on chopsticks and is a typical festival snack in the Kansai region. I found a food vendor selling hashimaki during the Tenjin festival.

What is Kushikatsu: skewered and deep-fried meat, seafood and vegetables. In some traditional restaurants, the ponzu-type dipping sauce is on the table, and you dip your skewer only once (no double-dipping!). Kushikatsu originated in Shinsekai, but you can find a kushikatsu restaurant anywhere in Osaka.

Where to eat Kushikatsu in Osaka:

• Kushikatsu Daruma (11am-10:30pm) – this kushikatsu restaurant chain has many locations in Osaka. Choose a combo meal with Doteyaki (beef tendon and konjac side dish) or individual skewers. And they have an English menu.
• Yaekatsu (10:30am-8:30pm; closed Thursdays) – a well-known local kushikatsu restaurant in the retro alley in Shinsekai. Sit around the kitchen as they fry your skewers in front of you.

Kitsune Udon

What is Kitsune Udon: a bowl of thick wheat flour noodles with a big piece of seasoned fried tofu in a mild sweet broth. The tofu is called Kitsune, which means “fox.” It is said that Kitsune is a fox’s favourite food. This udon dish originated in Osaka and can be eaten hot or cold.

Where to eat Kitsune Udon or other Udon in Osaka:

• Kitatake Udon (11am-3pm) – try a bowl of Michelin Bib Gourmand udon at this super popular udon restaurant. I tried the cold kitsune and Wagyu beef udon, and it was delish! Go early, as the restaurant closes when the noodles are sold out.
• Udonzin Beat (11:30am-3pm, 1-10:30pm; closed Wednesdays) – they are known for their Michelin vegetable udon, but I ordered the Wagyu udon instead. So good!
• Udon-bo Osaka (11:30am-3pm & 5:30-8pm Tuesday to Friday; 11:30am-3pm Saturdays and Sundays) – I had the cold tempura udon that comes with fried fish cake and egg. Probably my favourite udon place in Osaka! There’s always a queue at this Michelin udon restaurant, but the line moves quickly.

Hako Zushi and Kaiten Sushi

What is Hako Zushi: layered sushi pressed into a wooden box. It starts with vinegared rice, then various ingredients like mackerel, shrimp, conger egg, sea bream, egg and other colourful ingredients are added. It is also known as “oshi-zushi” or “Osaka zushi”.

What is Kaiten Sushi: conveyor belt sushi. Invented in Osaka in 1958, the way sushi is served in Kaiten sushi restaurants was inspired by bottles rotating around a conveyor belt in a beer factory.

Where to eat Hako Zushi in Osaka:

• Yoshino Sushi (10am-2pm Monday to Friday) – try hako zushi set lunches at the restaurant or buy boxed hako zushi for take away.
• Food level at Takashimaya , Hanshin and Hankyu Department Store (10am-8pm) – find packaged hako zushi and other sushi, sashimi and maki rolls at the B1 level.

Where to eat Kaiten Sushi in Osaka:

• Genrokuzushi (11am-10:30pm) – conveyor belt sushi restaurant chain in Osaka. Many locations across the city.
• Kura Sushi Osaka Dotonbori Global Flagship Store (11-12am Monday to Friday; 10:20-12am Saturdays and Sundays) – conveyor belt sushi restaurant chain with many locations in Osaka and around the world.

Where to eat sushi in Osaka:

• Kuromon Ichiba Market – a covered shopping street with many vendors sell fresh sushi and sashimi. There are also cooked seafood and other sweet treats. Eat on the spot or take away.
• Osaka Kizu Market (4-11am Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursday to Saturday) – a lesser-known seafood market in Osaka that sells fresh seafood at affordable prices. It is possible to eat there but only on the benches outside the wholesale market.
• Kizu Uoichi (6am-1pm Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursday to Saturday; 6am-12pm Sundays) – popular sushi restaurant at the perimeter of Osaka Kizu Market. Go early (like 7am) and queue up for their overflowing tuna rice bowl.
• Maruyoshi Sushi (5am-1pm Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursday to Saturday; 8am-1pm Wednesdays) – its next to Kizu Uoichi. They also serve fresh sushi.
• Izakaya Toyo (1-6:30pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays; 12-6:30pm Saturdays) – Osaka’s famous flamethrower chef was featured on Netflix Street Food Asia. Chef Toyoji Chikumoto is as animated and charming in real life as he was on the show.

Other must eats in Osaka

Japanese cuisine in osaka.

Besides all the unique food Osaka is known for, there are other Japanese food in Osaka that you should check out.

Other places to eat in Osaka:

• 555 Horai Ebisubashi Honten (10am-9:30pm) – known for its butaman (large Chinese steamed buns stuffed with pork). Commonly found on the food level of department stores and train stations.
• Osaka Ohsho (11am-10:30pm) – a large restaurant chain in Japan famous for its gyoza (pan-fried dumplings). There are many outlets in Osaka but go to the main store in Dotonbori – there is a giant gyoza above the restaurant.
• Hakugintei (11:45am-4pm Monday to Friday; 11:45am-2pm Saturdays) – I had a Michelin Bib Gourmand curry with tonkatsu, cheese and spinach. It has a bit of heat and oh so delicious!
• Torisoba Zagin Niboshi (10:30am-9pm) – foodies love the ramen with creamy chicken broth, sous vide chicken and pork and its signature fried burdock root. It also comes with two pieces of beef sushi. There are two shops in Osaka. The other shop is the main shop and is close to Higobashi Station.
• Akashiyaki & Okonomiyaki Takohachi (11:30am-3pm & 5:30-10pm Monday to Friday; 11:30am-10pm Saturdays & Sundays) – I found akashiyaki in Osaka. It is similar to takoyaki, except it is eggier. Instead of drizzling it with sauce, dip it in a clear dashi broth. This is a popular dish from Akashi in Hyogo Prefecture.

Desserts in Osaka

Can’t forget about the sweet tooth. Good thing Osaka has many dessert places. Actually, there are too many to name but here are my top three favourite sweet treats.

Dessert places in Osaka:

• Rikuro’s Cheesecake (9am-8pm) – famous for its fluffy and jiggly cheesecake. Buy one at the store to bring back to your hotel, or try it at the cafe upstairs.
• Pablo Cheese Tart Shinsaibashi (11am-9m Monday to Friday; 10am-9pm Saturdays & Sundays) – Pablo sells basque cheesecakes, souffle cheesecakes, melty cheese tarts, mini cheese tarts in various flavours, and my favourite, cheese soft serve ice cream.
• Coconchi Osaka Shinsekai (10am-9pm Monday to Friday; 9am-10pm Saturdays & Sundays) – many stores sell castella cakes (Japanese sponge cakes) in Osaka. I found the cutest mini castella cakes in the shape of Billiken, the mascot of Shinsekai, in a souvenir shop in Shinseikai.

Looking for tours around Osaka? Check out these experiences:

Which must-eat food in osaka are you most excited to try.

I hope you will try all the famous Osaka food when you are in the city. They are affordable and easily accessible. Even if you are only spending a few days in the city, there are many opportunities to find good food in Osaka.

And if you find other great places to eat in Osaka not mentioned in the post already, let me know in the comments below.

Thank you for reading my Osaka Food Guide

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kansai region

• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Kyoto: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kyoto Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• Kurama to Kibune hiking itinerary
• Uji day trip from Kyoto
• Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
• Nara famous food: Where and What to Eat
• Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Where to stay in Osaka for first time traveller
• Minoh Waterfalls Trail: easy day hike from Osaka
• Osaka to Kobe day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Best food in Kobe: Where and What to Eat
• Arima Onsen day trip itinerary
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

Food around the world

• What to eat in Sofia Bulgaria: 21 must-try food
• Vienna food guide: 23 must-try food
• Budapest food guide: 26 Best Budapest Food
• 25 Bucharest Food: What to eat in Bucharest
• Porto food guide: 17 Best Porto Food
• 21 must-eat food in Singapore
• Where to eat Michelin star street food in Singapore
• 15 traditional Hong Kong food
• 22 must-eat food in Taiwan
• Taiwan 7-11 food: 10 must-eat
• 15 Ximending food for foodies travelling to Taipei
• Hualien Food Guide: What and Where to eat in Hualien, Taiwan
• Yilan Food Guide: Where and What to eat in Yilan County

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Solo Travel in Japan: 17 Best Cities to Visit in Japan

Kagoshima Travel Guide: 12 Top Things to Do in Kagoshima Japan

Japan Off The Beaten Path: 11 Best Japan Hidden Gems

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Osaka to kobe day trip: best things to do in kobe in one day, ms travel solo.

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A complete travel guide to Osaka, Japan

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Located on the island of Honshu within the Kansai region, Osaka is Japan’s third-biggest city and one of the nation’s largest ports. The metropolis has a reputation for amazing street food and a burgeoning culinary landscape, a diverse art scene and thriving nightlife – a personality that rose from the ashes of World War II. The 1945 bombing of Osaka destroyed around a third of the city, but resilient locals recreated an urban sprawl with eclectic charm, edgy architecture and contemporary drawcards. Whether you’re planning a multi-day stay or a quick stopover, these are the best things to do in Osaka, Japan . 

Where is Osaka, Japan?

Situated roughly in the centre of Japan on the island of Honshu, Osaka belongs to its eponymous prefecture and the city is perched on the delta of the Yodo River. A direct flight from Sydney, Australia to Osaka, Japan takes just under 10 hours, or two and a half hours from Tokyo via Shinkansen . 

How do I get from Tokyo to Osaka? 

The quickest way to travel from Tokyo to Osaka is by catching a Nozomi Shinkansen , which takes two and a half hours to complete the journey. However, it’s worth noting the Nozomi train is not included in the JR Pass so visitors will need to purchase a separate ticket for this train. 

How many days do you need in Osaka, Japan? 

Visitors can see the best of the city within two to three days within the city. However, if you plan to venture further afield or take day trips into the surrounding areas, allocate more days. 

Things to do in Osaka, Japan 

Ride a ferris wheel.

Osaka has four Ferris wheels for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike. The largest of the four is Redhorse Osaka Wheel which stands 123 metres tall at Expocity at Expo Commemoration Park. The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is 112.5 metres tall at Tempozan Harbour Village next to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. The HEP Five Ferris Wheel can be found on the roof of the HEP Five Shopping Centre and is 106 metres above the ground at its highest point. The Ebisu Tower claims to be the world’s first oval Ferris wheel with four-seat cabins that rotate horizontally. The Ebisu Tower Wheel is a smidge over 77 metres tall and can be found in Dotonbori. 

Visit a temple

There are many shrines and temples peppered across the city of Osaka, however some of the most popular are Sumiyoshi Taisha in Sumiyoshi-ku, Shitenno-ji in Tennoji-koen Park, Hozen-ji Temple in Hozenji Yokocho, the dragon-faced Namba Yasaka Jinja near Namba Parks, Osaka Tenmang shrine in the Kita district, and the famous Daruma dolls of Katsuo-ji Temple in Minoh. 

Eat your way through the food scene

Osaka is known for its fantastic culinary scene, which includes delicious street food as well as fine dining venues. Get a taste of the real Japan by hunting down a dinner spot beloved by locals. The main thoroughfare of Dotonbori is lined with eateries, as are many of the smaller streets that branch off from it. Take a walk down the Edo-period Hozenji Yokocho and check out the 60 small traditional shops and restaurants. Try takoyaki, fugu or okonomiyaki in Kitashinchi entertainment district, of strol Shinsekai for kushikatsu shops. 

Get a bird’s-eye view of Osaka

One of the best things to do in Osaka is to visit a rooftop observation deck to take in the view of the city at sunset. Harukas 300 is a triple-tiered observation area on floors 58 to 60 in Japan’s tallest skyscraper, Abeno Harukas. The Kushu Teien Observatory (also known as Floating Garden Observatory) in the Umeda Sky Building has panoramic views of the city and a spectacular escalator that’s become Instagram-famous. Tsutenkaku Tower is a famous Shinsekai landmark with an indoor observation deck on the fifth floor, an open-air deck known as Tembo Paradise on the rooftop, and a Tower Slider that snakes its way from the top of the tower to the third-floor basement. 

Shop ‘til you drop

Whether you’re in the market for luxury goods, budget treasures or antique trinkets, there’s a shop, mall or arcade to suit your style.  Shinsaibashi-suji is one of Osaka’s oldest and busiest shopping destinations. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a series of underground malls with department stores, independent shops and bookstores. Kuromon Ichiba is a covered public market selling fresh produce and souvenirs. International brands can be found in America Mura , colloquially known as Ame-Mura. HEP Five is a massive leisure complex with shopping, dining, cinemas and other entertainment venues. Den Den Town is a collection of more than 150 retailers dedicated to electronics. Tennoji (where you’ll find Tsutenjaju Tower) is a mix of old specialty shops, contemporary fashion and souvenir stores. Not far from Tennoji is Janjan – Yokocho (also known as Nanyo-dori Shopping Street) which has cheap eateries, a retro vibe and old-world retailers. If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, find your way to Hirakata T-Site in the north of Osaka, which has a bookstore with seven-metre tall bookshelves. 

See Sakura at the best cherry blossom spots in Osaka 

Late March to early April (and sometimes into May, depending on where in Japan you are) sakura (cherry blossoms) bloom throughout Japan. If you’re in Osaka for the springtime, visit Daisen Park , Kishiwada Castle Garden or Akashi Park to view the blooms. On the right bank of Kema Sakuranomiya Park in Miyakojima Ward near The Mint is a famous central blossom-viewing area. One of the best things to do in Osaka during this season is to walk the rows of trees along Higashioji Street or the East Plaza of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park . If a day trip is possible, venture out to Mount Yoshino , an area renowned for its vast plantation of cherry blossom trees. 

Spend some time in nature

One of the best things to do in Osaka is to escape the hustle and bustle of the city into a green retreat or meet the animals at the local zoo. Kema Sakuranomiya Park is located on the banks of the Osaka River; Nakanoshima Park is on the Nakanoshima Sandbank between Dōjima and Tosabori Rivers; Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park in Tsurumi Ward is famous for its windmill and tulip farm; and Tennoji Zoo is an 11-hectare precinct in Tennoji Park. A 35-minute drive from central Osaka will get you to Minoh Park to see Minoh Falls and the picturesque bridge. A day trip outside the city can see you braving the 280-metre-long Swing of the Stars suspension bridge in Hoshida Park , also known as the Forest of Osaka. 

Check out the castles in Osaka

Take a step back in time by visiting one of the castles in Osaka, and their museums. Two of the most accessible castles in Osaka are Osaka Castle and its beautiful gardens and Kishiwada Castle , a waterfront structure right in the centre of the city with views over Osaka Bay. 

Brush up on your art, history and nature knowledge at a museum

One of the best things to do in Osaka is to visit one of the many art, history or nature museums. Visitors to the city should add the Osaka Museum of History , Cup Noodle Museum and Osaka National Museum of Art to their itineraries. 

Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan 

Home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Nintendo World, Universal Studios Japan was the first in the world to open outside the United States. Those short on time with aspirations of experiencing the best the park has to offer should look into purchasing express passes as the lines for rides can be extremely long, and both the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Nintendo World often require timed entry. 

Catch Pokémon

Tucked away on the 13th floor of Daimaru Department Store in Kita Ward is the Pokémon Centre , an official retailer with merchandise, toys, food and games – some of which can’t be found anywhere else in the world. If that isn’t enough Pokemon, reserve a table at the Pokémon Cafe on the 9th floor to indulge in themed snacks and sweets. 

Hit up a major tourist attraction

It’s true that every city is home to hidden treasures only found by those willing to veer off the beaten path, however, some of the best things to do in Osaka really are the major tourist attractions. 

• Experience the neon lights of Dotonbori at night, get a photo with the Glico Man or snap a selfie on Ebisubashi bridge. 
• The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest in the world. 
• See Shinsekai ‘New World’ lit up at night, with the shop signs and food stalls framing the famous Tsusenkaku Tower. 
• Cruise the city canal on a Tombori River cruise
• Those familiar with TeamLab Planets in Tokyo should visit TeamLab Botanical Garden Osaka , the newest outdoor museum installation by the world-famous collective. 
• Join a Japanese whiskey tasting at the award-winning S untory Yamazaki Distillery . 
• Watch a Kabuki performance at Osaka Shochikuza Theatre .
• Take some time out at Solaniwa Onsen Osaka Bay Tower which has baths, saunas, open-air bathing and garden viewing areas. 

Where are the best photo spots in Osaka? 

• Osaka Castle: the Japanese Garden, Gokuraku-Bashi Bridge & Osaka Castle Park 
• Dotonbori from Ebisubashi bridge
• The Glico Man in Dotonbori from the yellow stairs immediately opposite the usual photo spot 
• Shinsekai ‘New World’ towards Tsutenkaku Tower as viewed from Koen Hondori or Janjan Yokocho
• Shitennoji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan 
• The red footbridge at Sumiyoshi Taisha 
• Namba Yasaka Shrine 
• The cobblestone street of Hozenji Yokocho 
• The daruma dolls of the Katsuo-ji Temple in the mountains north of Osaka 

Read more:  The ultimate guide to the best food in Japan When is cherry blossom season in Japan? Nine of the best Kyoto districts for sightseeing, food and culture Live like a 17th-century Japanese ruler at Ozu Castle

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22 EPIC Things To Do In Osaka

By: Author Lora

Posted on Last updated: May 4, 2024

Japan, a land of ancient traditions and modern marvels, offers a myriad of experiences for travelers.

If you’re looking for things to do in Osaka, you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through some of the most captivating things to do in Osaka

From bustling cityscapes to serene temples, each corner of this captivating city is filled with wonders waiting to be discovered.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Japan Essentials

We almost always find the best flights to Tokyo and Osaka on Momondo .  It may be worthwhile to compare these with Skyscanner and a new but promising flight aggregator, WayAway .

Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your Japan travel SIM  or portable WiFi device in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.

Find out which JR Pass will save you the most for your trip to Japan.

Check out our ultimate Japan travel blog where you can find many more interesting Japan articles to prepare for your trip.

Need help with your Japan trip planning? Check out this post on how to plan your trip to Japan.

Must-See Attractions In Osaka 

There are many exciting places to head to in Osaka, offering a mix of traditional culture and modern attractions.

Whether you are exploring historic castles or indulging in delicious street food, Osaka has something for everyone.

Areas 

Below, we break down the best areas to visit in Osaka.

Dotonbori And Namba: Pulse Of Osaka’s Energy 

Dotonbori and Namba pulse with Osaka’s energy, offering a kaleidoscope of neon lights, bustling streets, and mouthwatering street food.  

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere, sample local delicacies, and snap photos with iconic landmarks like the Glico Running Man. 

As night falls, the district transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle, with hundreds of neon lights and billboards adorning the streets, making it a renowned landmark of Japan.  

Additionally, it serves as an ideal accommodation choice for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere with a diverse array of bars, restaurants, and nightlife options. 

How To Get There: Dotonbori and Namba are easily accessible by subway, with Namba Station serving as a central hub for transportation. 

For a more hassle-free trip in Osaka, we recommend getting the Osaka Amazing Pass .

Shinsaibashi: Trendy Shops And Chic Boutiques 

Shinsaibashi beckons with its trendy shops, chic boutiques, and bustling entertainment scene.

Stroll along the iconic covered shopping street, explore diverse fashion brands, and indulge in delectable cuisine at local eateries. 

How To Get There : Shinsaibashi is conveniently accessible via subway to Shinsaibashi Station on the Midosuji Line. 

Umeda: Osaka’s Bustling Business Hub  

Umeda stands tall as Osaka’s bustling business and entertainment district, boasting skyscrapers, upscale shopping centers, and lively nightlife.  

Ascend to the Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views, shop till you drop at Grand Front Osaka, and dine at top-notch restaurants. 

How To Get There: Umeda is a major transportation hub, easily accessible by subway, JR trains, and private railways, with Umeda Station serving as the central point. 

Where to Stay in Osaka: Our Best Recommendations 

Tennoji: Blend of History, Culture, And Modernity 

Tennoji offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity, with attractions like Shitennoji Temple, Tennoji Park, and the Abeno Harukas skyscraper.

Explore the bustling streets, visit the vibrant Tennoji Zoo , and unwind in the tranquility of the surrounding green spaces. 

How To Get There : Tennoji is conveniently accessible by subway to Tennoji Station, served by the Midosuji and Tanimachi lines. 

Osaka Bay: Dazzling Waterfront Attractions 

Osaka Bay dazzles with its waterfront attractions, including Universal Studios Japan, Lego Discovery Center, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and Tempozan Ferris Wheel.

Immerse yourself in entertainment, marvel at marine life, and enjoy stunning bay views from the top of the iconic Ferris wheel. 

How To Get There: Osaka Bay attractions are accessible by various transportation options, including the JR Yumesaki Line and Chuo Line. 

Shopping 

There are many places to visit in Osaka for shopping, from high-end luxury malls to traditional shopping streets.

The city offers a wide range of options for all kinds of shoppers, with something to suit every taste and budget.

Go Shopping In The Shinsaibashi Shopping Area

Indulge in a shopping spree at Shinsaibashi, conveniently adjacent to Namba’s iconic Dotonbori.  

This bustling district hosts a plethora of high-end stores like Chanel and Cartier, alongside bargain finds and 100 yen shops for budget-conscious travelers.  

Even without purchasing, enjoy window shopping for luxury handbags, artisanal jewelry, and traditional attire.  

The main thoroughfare, Shinsaibashi-suji street, stretches nearly 2 kilometers and is lined with shops, eateries, and nightlife venues.  

Best Japanese Souvenirs You Should Take Home

How To Get There: The main street begins at the iconic Dotonbori bridge and extends to the Shinsaibashi subway station, where the Midosuji and Nagahoritsurumiryokuchi trains make stops. 

For those heading to the Dotonbori bridge, the nearest subway station is Namba station, accessible via the Midosuji, Sen-Nichimae, or Yotsubashi lines. 

JR Namba station, the terminal of the Yamatoji line, is the closest JR station to the Dotonbori bridge. 

Savoring Osaka’s Culinary Treasures At Kuromon Ichiba Market 

Kuromon Ichiba Market, known as “Osaka’s Kitchen,” offers a feast for the senses with its bustling atmosphere and diverse array of food stalls. 

Indulge in Osaka’s iconic street food, from grilled scallops to otoro sushi, and savor the freshest seafood dishes prepared by skilled chefs. 

Experience the lively ambiance of Kuromon Ichiba Market as vendors call out their offerings and shoppers navigate the bustling alleyways.

With servings sized for sampling, Kuromon Ichiba Market invites you to indulge in a variety of Japanese delicacies. Wander freely and savor the opportunity to taste a diverse array of specialties. 

Best Japanese Street Food You Need To Try

How To Get There : Kuromon Ichiba Market is easily accessible by subway, with Nippombashi Station. Take Exit 2, walk for about 2 minutes veering left, and you’ll arrive at the market. 

For JR users, head to JR Namba station, the terminal of the Yamatoji line. From Osaka Castle, take the JR Loop Line from Osakajokoen station toward Tennoji station. You can change trains at Tennoji station or any subsequent stations.

Both trains stop at all stations from Tennoji Station to Imamiya Station. 

Best Temples And Shrines  

Attractions in Osaka boast some of the most breathtaking temples and shrines in Japan, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The intricate designs and serene atmosphere of these sacred sites make them a must-see for any traveler.

Shitennoji Temple: Ancient Icon Of Serenity 

Dating back to the 6th century, Shitennoji Temple stands as one of Japan’s oldest temples.  

As you enter the temple grounds, lush gardens and majestic pagodas greet you.

Explore the Golden Hall, Five-story Pagoda, and more, immersing yourself in the temple’s rich history and cultural heritage. 

How To Get There: Visitors can easily access Shitennoji Temple by taking the Tanimachi subway line to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station, which is just a short walk from the temple grounds. 

Namba Yasaka Shrine: Tranquil Oasis In Urban Namba 

Nestled in the vibrant Namba district, Namba Yasaka Shrine is a cultural gem, famous for its towering lion head-shaped stage.  

Amidst the urban hustle, the shrine offers a tranquil escape, surrounded by lush greenery and serene ponds. 

The shrine’s iconic lion head stage serves as a focal point for festivals and performances, embodying the spirit of strength and reverence. 

This was one of our favorite shrines in Osaka.  

How To Get There: From Namba Station, take a short walk to Namba Yasaka Shrine, easily accessible on foot from the station. 

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine: Center Of Spiritual Solace 

Dedicated to the deity Tenjin, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine offers a serene escape in the city center. Amidst lush greenery and ancient stone pathways, visitors find solace.  

The shrine’s intricate architecture and cultural events celebrate knowledge and learning, inviting contemplation and spiritual growth. 

How to Get There: Travelers can conveniently reach Osaka Tenmangu Shrine by taking the JR Loop Line to Osaka Tenmangu Station, which provides direct access to the shrine. 

Hozenji Temple: Hidden Sanctuary In Dotonbori’s Bustle 

Tucked away in the lively streets of Dotonbori , Hozenji Temple offers a peaceful retreat from the urban chaos.  

The temple highlight, is the iconic moss-covered statue of Fudo Myoo, surrounded by offerings and prayers.  

The serene garden, with its lush greenery and trickling water features, provides a quiet sanctuary for reflection and contemplation. 

How to Get There: Hozenji Temple is easily accessible from Namba Station, a major transportation hub in Osaka. Visitors can reach the temple with a short walk from the station. 

Castles 

When looking for things to do in Osaka, visiting the castles is a must.

These historic landmarks offer a glimpse into the city’s past and provide a beautiful backdrop for exploring and learning about Japanese history.

Osaka Castle: Iconic Symbol Of History And Resilience 

Step back in time at Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city’s rich history.

Originally built in 1583, Osaka Castle met destruction in 1615 and 1665.  

Reconstruction commenced in 1931, resulting in today’s ferroconcrete replica.  

The castle now hosts an informative museum detailing its history and the legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a renowned Samurai.  

Due to its popularity, we advise you to visit early to avoid crowds.  

The castle grounds are mostly accessible, with elevators available for those with mobility concerns. 

How To Get There: Osaka Castle is accessible via Osakajokoen Station on the JR Loop Line or Tanimachi 4-chome Station on the Tanimachi subway line. 

Experiences And Activities 

There are several activities to do in Osaka, ranging from exploring historical landmarks to enjoying culinary delights.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in the vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene the city has to offer.

Here we list some of the best.

Universal Studios: Where Fantasy Comes To Life 

Step into the magic of Universal Studios Japan and embark on unforgettable adventures inspired by your favorite movies and characters.  

From thrilling rides like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to immersive experiences in Jurassic Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

How To Get There: Universal Studios Japan is located in the Osaka Bay area, easily accessible by train from Osaka and nearby cities.

Take the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station, and follow the signs to the park entrance for a day of excitement and entertainment.

Check prices and availability: Universal Studios Tickets

Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour: Discover Hidden Gems 

Embark on the award-winning Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour, offered by Viator, for an unforgettable adventure through the city’s enchanting backstreets.  

Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore hidden gems and stroll through streets off the beaten path, immersing yourself in Osaka’s vibrant culture. 

How To Get There: The tour typically starts at a designated meeting point in central Osaka. Check the tour details for specific meeting locations and transportation options.  

Please note that this tour is not suitable for children. 

Check prices and availability: Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour

Join A Food Tour: Taste Osaka’s Culinary Delights  

Embark on a flavorful journey through Osaka’s culinary scene by joining a food tour.

Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore hidden gems and local favorites, sampling various delicious dishes along the way.

From savory street food to gourmet specialties, discover the diverse flavors that make Osaka a food lover’s paradise.

10 Best Osaka Food Tours For 2024

Cooking Class: Unleash Your Inner Chef 

Immerse yourself in the world of Japanese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class experience. Learn the art of sushi rolling, tempura frying, or ramen making from expert instructors.  

Discover the secrets of traditional Japanese recipes and savor the flavors of your culinary creations. 

How To Get There: Cooking classes are offered at various locations throughout Osaka, including cooking schools, cultural centers, and local restaurants.

Check the class details for specific location information and transportation options. If you want to know more, we wrote about our experience here .

Check prices and availability: Osaka Cooking Class

16 BEST things to do in Osaka at night

Osaka Aquarium: Journey into the Depths 

Embark on an underwater adventure at the Osaka Aquarium , one of Japan’s largest and most impressive aquariums.  

Explore the diverse marine life of the Pacific Rim, including awe-inspiring whale sharks, playful dolphins, and colorful coral reefs. 

How To Get There: The Osaka Aquarium is located near Osakako Station on the Chuo subway line.

Visitors can reach the aquarium with a short walk from the station, making it easily accessible for families and marine enthusiasts alike.

Check prices and tickets: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Must-Visit Towers 

When visiting Osaka, the must-see things include the iconic towers that offer breathtaking views of the city.

These towers provide a unique perspective of Osaka’s skyline and are a popular attraction for tourists.

Umeda Sky Building: Touching the Sky In Umeda 

Ascend to new heights at the Umeda Sky Building, an architectural marvel that offers panoramic views of Osaka’s skyline.

With its iconic twin towers connected by a “Floating Garden Observatory,” visitors can marvel at the cityscape from 170 meters above ground. 

How To Get There: The Umeda Sky Building is conveniently located near Osaka and Umeda stations, major transportation hubs in the city.

Visitors can easily access the building by train or subway and enjoy a short walk from the stations to reach the entrance. 

Best Museums In Osaka  

If you’re looking for must do things in Osaka, you’ll do no wrong in visiting some of the best museums in the city.

You’ll find a diverse range of exhibits and collections that showcase the rich history and culture of Osaka.

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living: Stepping Back in Time 

Experience the charm of Osaka’s past at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.  

Through meticulous recreations of Edo-period streets and buildings, visitors are transported back in time.  

Discover traditional homes, shops, and workshops, gaining insight into life in old Osaka. 

How to Get There: The museum is located near Tenjimbashisuji 6-chome Station on the Tanimachi subway line. It’s a short walk from the station, easily accessible for visitors. 

Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda: Unveiling Noodle Creativity 

Delve into the world of instant noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda.  

Explore interactive exhibits detailing the history and innovation behind everyone’s favorite quick meal.  

Get hands-on in the “My Cupnoodles Factory” and create your own customized cup of noodles. 

How To Get There: The museum is located near Ikeda Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line. It’s a short walk from the station, making it convenient for visitors to access. 

Hidden Gems In Osaka You Mustn’t Miss

Kids Plaza Osaka: Where Learning Meets Fun 

Kids Plaza Osaka is a paradise for children and families, offering a plethora of interactive exhibits and activities.  

From science and technology to arts and crafts, kids can explore and learn through play.  

With themed zones and special events, every visit promises new adventures and discoveries. 

How To Get There: The museum is located near Ogimachi Station on the Sakaisuji subway line. It’s within walking distance from the station, making it easily accessible for families. 

Glico Museum: Celebrating Osaka’s Iconic Brand 

Discover the history and legacy of Glico, one of Osaka’s most iconic brands, at the Glico Museum.  

Through exhibits and displays, learn about the company’s origins, products, and impact on Japanese culture. 

Don’t miss the chance to create your own personalized Pocky snacks in the DIY workshop. 

How To Get There: The museum is located near Nishikujo Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line. It’s a short walk from the station, making it convenient for visitors to access. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Osaka captivates visitors with its diverse attractions, from bustling streets to serene temples.  

Whether indulging in street food or exploring historic landmarks, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant city. 

Trip within a Trip: Osaka and Kyoto, Japan

May 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Make your next trip to Japan even better by adding on four days in exciting Osaka (pictured) and Kyoto © EarnestTse / Shutterstock

Senior Director of Content Laura Motta recently spent 10 days in Japan . To make the most of her time in the country, she included a four-day mini-excursion to Osaka and Kyoto – a trip within a trip, if you will, which anyone can replicate.

Everyone goes to Tokyo , and I would never tell you to skip it. But another critical part of any Japan itinerary is that magical Shinkansen (bullet train) ride south to Osaka , and the astounding sites that await beyond. A mind-boggling pair of cities – Osaka and Kyoto – are crammed with more shrines and temples, steel-and-glass skyscraper malls, scenic vistas and world-class restaurants than you can experience in a month, never mind in just a few days. This was my third trip to Japan and my second time visiting Osaka and Kyoto.

Before I get to my recommendations, here are a few practical tips:

• When to arrive: Arriving in Osaka around midday lets you drop your bags at the hotel, rest and then hit Dōtonbori in the evening, when its famous neon lights are ablaze. 
• Getting there from the airport: The spotless, inexpensive airport limousine bus from Kansai Airport makes eight stops in Osaka, which include all of its main train stations.
• Getting around: Japan is world-famous for the ease and comprehensiveness of its public transit for a reason. You can – and certainly should – do this route without a car. High-speed (more expensive/faster) and local (less expensive/slower) trains cover every inch of this region and will shuttle you quickly between Kyoto and Osaka. Both cities have easy-to-use subway systems.
• What to pack: Certainly, your walking shoes and room in your stomach for a lot of ramen. Keep in mind that Japan has four distinct seasons and temperatures vary significantly between them. Check the weather ahead of time – and pack accordingly.
• How to structure your days: It’s tempting to cram your schedule when there are so many things to see. Yet realistically, you won’t be able to do more than two major sites – maybe three, if you’re really going for it – in a single day. This is especially true in Kyoto, where the best sites are far apart and can require up to an hour of travel to reach.
• Take it easy:  Don’t forget to eat, hydrate, rest and wander. And tell yourself you’ll be back.

Day 1: Osaka

Snack time .

You’ve been traveling all morning. It’s time to eat. (Unless, of course, you stuffed yourself en route on the amazing bento boxes you can get at Tokyo Station.) Keep it simple like I did and grab onigiri (rice balls) or a  sando  at 7-Eleven. There’s one on every corner, you’ll only spend a few dollars, and buying local snacks – especially in Japan – is among travel’s greatest joys. 

See the neon

If you’re in Osaka, go see the Glico man. It's a rule. Or maybe it's just mine. This famous animated sign of a runner, arms raised, about to cross the finish line in some hypothetical marathon in the sky, remains delightful despite the tourist crush on the streets below. This ad for the Glico candy company (candy bars give you energy – get it?) has become an informal mascot of Dotonbori , Osaka’s dining and nightlife district. After dark, it’s fun to wander here through the area’s many arcades, claw-machine and pachinko parlors, and shops. If you start here on a weeknight, it’s delightfully quiet.

Insider tip: Arrive before sunset and duck into a tiny side street to Hōzen-ji , a small temple known for its moss-covered statues. I was there when they were lighting the lanterns for the evening – a dreamy experience indeed.

Have a cheap and cheerful dinner

Dotonbori is teeming with restaurants. You can’t miss the distinctive signage advertising takoyaki (grilled octopus balls), gyoza and crab. My favorite takoyaki stand, Takoyaki Yoriyabunzaemon , is humble compared to its bombastic neighbors; there is no 5ft marquee. Inside, you’ll sit on a well-worn barstool while the single cook pours takoyaki batter into the famous round molds and serves it to you still piping hot, and slathered in mayo, barbecue sauce and bonito flakes. A warning: if you value the skin on the roof of your mouth, do not eat too fast here.

Day 2: Kyoto

Bullet train .

The Shinkansen train between Osaka and Kyoto is cheap and lightning fast. This trip is included in many Japanese rail passes , but if you’re paying for a standalone ticket, you’ll pay 1420 yen (about US$10). The trip takes 15 minutes, so slower local trains hardly seem worth the mildly cheaper price. Arrive midday and head to your hotel to check in and drop your luggage. Before you depart, don’t forget to look around Kyoto Station for the eki  ink stamp, which you can imprint into a notebook as a souvenir. Every train station in Japan has a uniquely designed stamp, even if you sometimes have to ask the attendant at smaller stations where to find it.

Stay in style

If there’s one place to splurge on a fabulous hotel in Japan, it’s in Kyoto. Whether you’re strolling under vibrant fall leaves or spring cherry blossoms, or wandering the narrow alleys and stepped streets of the Gion district , Kyoto is romantic, its temples and shrines otherworldly. My choice was Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto , a new luxury property that blends smart contemporary design with traditional Japanese accents. Beside its excellent restaurant – more on that below – the highlight is the hotel's updated approach to the traditional onsen . This vast, moodily lit indoor space offers heated pools and loungers amid beautiful rock formations and water features. And unlike many onsen experiences, this one is a bathing-suits-required, mixed-gender space where everyone can hang out. There is also no surcharge for entry.

Visit the temples

My boyfriend cheekily refers to Fushimi Inari Taisha , Kyoto’s famous shrine with its rows and rows of vermillion gates ascending a dramatic hillside, as “the Instagram shrine.” It’s hard to say that he’s wrong: the site is a favorite among foreign travelers for good reason. The gates are simply gorgeous and – yes – photogenic. Just don’t expect to find yourself there alone. 

Insider tip: Afterward, stop at the charming Vermillion Cafe for a sweet snack and coffee. Sit on the back porch, which overlooks a lovely stretch of forest, for especially serene vibes (spectacular in autumn).

If you still have energy left in the afternoon, head to Nishi Hongan-ji , a mammoth Buddhist temple complex that’s home to some of the largest wooden structures in Japan. After you marvel at the huge lanterns and expansive halls, stop by the brightly painted Chinese Gate, which dates back to the late 1500s. This temple is also within walking distance of Kyoto Station, and can be a good place to start or end your trip.

Day 3: Kyoto

Go for the gold.

Kinkaku-Ji , sometimes called the Golden Pavilion, is among Kyoto’s (and Japan’s) most famous and photographed landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage site , where a brilliant gold temple appears to float along the shores of a serene lake, is well worth braving the crowds for, especially in sunny weather when the reflection of the lake glints off of the temple’s exterior walls. Go early, packing your patience – and you’ll understand instantly why so many people flock here. 

School Bus Coffee Stop is a charming spot for an easy, affordable breakfast or lunch in cozy, industrial-farmhouse-style surroundings. Comforting selections like bagel sandwiches and avocado toast are accompanied by the shop’s excellent, house-roasted coffee.

Modern love

For an aesthetic palate cleanser after a quick lunch, stop by the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art , which houses rotating exhibits, often of contemporary and modern art, in a fantastic brick structure that dates to the 1930s.

Taste sensation

And you’d be remiss if you stayed at the Mitsui without eating at its elegantly flamboyant Italian restaurant, Forni . Yes, there are pizzas and pastas on its à la carte menu. But I’d highly recommend the tasting dinner, where impeccably composed dishes like sea bream citrus tartare and grilled wagyu arrive on geometric plates and stands. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

Day 4: Osaka

Smart hotel.

After going luxe in Kyoto on meals and lodging, I came back to Osaka looking to save money without sacrificing too much comfort. I wasn’t ready to sleep in a sarcophagus-sized pod or get every meal at 7-Eleven. (Well, not every meal – just a few.) After getting off the train from Kyoto at the massive Shin-Osaka Station, I took the easy-to-use metro to one of the best places I’ve stayed in Japan, the chicly designed, austere-but-comfortable  Hotel Noum , just across the river from Temmabashi Station. The location made transportation connections easy and kept me sheltered from the stark urban rush of Umeda, Osaka’s high-rise business district. Rooms are small, comfortable and spotless; mine had a river view. The hotel also has an airy coffee shop in its lobby that attracts as many locals as travelers. I popped in here for a breakfast pastry and a latte and was ready to start the day.

Window(less) shopping

Even if you don’t stay in Umeda, visiting the neighborhood is a must. Spend a day wandering its cavernous, endless indoor shopping malls and underground food courts. You may never see daylight, but you will find everything from Hermès bags to the best 300-yen (US$2) gyoza you’ve ever tasted. I like to check in on the enormous red whale, which hangs suspended from the atrium of the Hep Five department store, which also happens to have a ferris wheel on its roof.

Enjoy a messy lunch

Train stations are where you’ll find some of the best food in Japan – and Osaka’s sprawling Umeda Station is no exception. My favorite train-station ramen is at Menya Takei, located behind the entry gates for the Hankyu Railway. Menya Takei specializes in tsukemen , in which the ramen noodles and broth are served separately. Dip the noodles into the broth to eat – yes, you’ll undoubtedly get it all over your clothes, but that’s part of the fun. Lots of laundry to do when you return home is a sure sign of a great trip. 

Insider tip : Ask the gate agent to let you through. They’ll make you pay for a rail ticket on the way in, and then may refund you on the way out.

From Osaka, hop back onboard the Shinkansen for more exploring in Japan, or do what I did and catch a quick, affordable domestic flight to Tokyo’s Haneda airport to connect to your flight home.

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

The 24 best things to do in Japan Find out if you need a visa to enter the country Take to the open road on these top drives How to discover Japan on a budget

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Osaka Guide: The Best Things to See and Do in Two Days

(SPOT.ph)  As traveling has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, Japan has become one of the best countries to visit among Filipinos because of its reasonably priced flights from the Philippines, exciting culture , food that is satisfying to our palate, and its wide selection of goods that you can bring home. But the most attractive thing about this country is that you can travel from end to end by train, thanks to its very efficient transportation system. You can spend as little as five days visiting a few adjacent cities or as much as two weeks exploring the whole of Japan. And one of the top-of-mind cities in Japan that can be toured for a day or two is Osaka .

What to Know about Osaka, Japan

Osaka is the second largest metropolitan area and the second most populated city in Japan, next to Tokyo . Considered the more laid-back counterpart of the capital, Osaka is popularly known as the nation’s soul kitchen. The Osaka gastronomy started after the Osaka Castle was built by the new ruler Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583. Because Osaka was conveniently positioned at the center of everything, he envisioned making the city the core of commerce. He called merchants from neighboring regions of Sakai and Fushimi to trade the goods they transported via boats in Osaka. The city also became the trading center and source of staple goods, such as rice, that provided food to the entire nation. With this, Osaka flourished to become the Merchant City.

Because of the constant supply of raw ingredients from different parts of Japan, people in Osaka began experimenting with various dishes. The dashi, an essential ingredient unique to Japanese culture, made its first appearance in Osaka. Dashi has become integral to the flour-based dishes of Osaka cuisine, including udon, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. Today, Osaka has lived true to this promise of being the culinary capital by having some world-renowned chefs, overwhelmingly delicious street food, and the country’s most beloved dishes.

Osaka City Tour on Day 1

Osaka castle.

We’re all familiar with the traditional Japanese architecture of temples and castles that give Japan its unique charm. But the green and white facade of the Osaka Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan because of the history it symbolizes. Osaka Castle (or Osaka-jo in Japanese) was built by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, a feudal lord and warrior during the Sengoku period. His obsessed with gold is prominent in the castle's interior and exterior, which are adorned with this precious metal. He held the castle as a stronghold during a period of unrest, bringing temporary peace. Throughout history, the castle was destroyed by wars and fire, and the most recent reconstruction happened in 1928. Nevertheless, there are still original structures that have remained intact since the 1600s.

You can enter the castle to visit the museum, which details the extensive history of Osaka and the castle. On the top floor, you can see the view of the park surrounding the castle. The Osaka Castle Park opened in 1938 and is a popular destination during the sakura (cherry blossom) and koyo (falling leaves) seasons. If you want a picturesque view of Osaka Castle from afar, you might also want to ride a boat around the moat for the ultimate experience.

Osaka Castle is at 1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka,. The castle tower is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is 600 yen for adults.

Have you ever tried Pocky? The manufacturer of Pocky and one of Asia’s most popular confectionary companies, Glico, is advertised by the running man. The huge, neon sign is a landmark that brightens the entire Dotonbori stretch by the river. The sign features a man running on a blue race track, who was chosen as the official mascot for Glico’s first product, a candy caramel. The founder, Ri-ichi Ezaki, created the snack as an energy product by adding glycogen. Each treat can give you the energy to run 300 meters, so the running man becomes the appropriate representation of the treat.

Dating back to 1935, the sign had several overhauls to highlight sporting triumphs throughout the years, such as when Japan hosted the Soccer World Cup and the city supported the mighty Hanshin Tigers, Osaka’s baseball team. In recent times, the neon sign has also included known landmarks such as the Osaka Castle and the Tsutenkaku Tower in its background. Because of its vibrancy and retro-futurist vibe, the area below the Running Man has become the favorite meeting place of people. It is the center of all the fun activities in Dotonbori where you get to meet performers and magicians.

Glico Man is at 1-chōme-10-3 Dōtonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka.

Harukas 300

Want to see the 360-degree view of Osaka from the tallest skyscraper in the city? Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas, perfectly gives you that amazing view. The Harukas 300 observatory occupies the building's top three floors (58th - 60th).

On the 60th floor, covered by floor-to-ceiling glass panels, you can see the whole of Osaka and even the surrounding regions of Kyoto, Kobe, and the Rokko Mountains. Here, it feels as if you’re walking on air. On the 58th floor, you can see an open-air wooden deck space and a cafe. During the daytime, you see a diorama or a historical map below you. At sunset, there's the vicinity with a filter of gold turning to wine red as the dusk falls. At night, the cityscape looks like a box of jewels.

Abeno Harukas does not only have an observatory, but it also houses the largest department store in Japan, an art museum, and a hotel. The Abeno Harukas Kinetsu Department Store covers 100,000 square meters of retail space and occupies two buildings. Meanwhile, the Abeno Harukas Art Museum does not have a permanent art collection but has changing exhibitions of mainly Western and Buddhist art.

Harukas 300 is at 1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka. The observatory is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Tickets for adults cost 1800 yen per person.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Considered one of Japan’s most spectacular aquariums, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is located in Osaka’s bay area. The aquarium tries to recreate the natural environment of the aquatic animals of the Pacific Rim. The place is creatively built such that the 15 large tanks represent the various regions of the Pacific Ocean. The center of attraction, the Pacific Ocean, is a nine-meter deep, 34-meter long tank containing 5,400 tons of water that serves as the home of whale sharks. Other interesting tanks include the sunlit Japan Forest and the icy Antarctica.

In this two-and-a-half-hour trip to discover marine life, visitors take a spiral ramp from the eighth to the fourth floor. There are 30,000 creatures and 620 species, including otters, sea lions, penguins, dolphins, whale sharks, rays, and jellyfish. If you’re lucky, you can also witness them during feeding and training times.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is at 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka. It is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Admission fees cost 2,700 yen per adult.

Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda

Cup Noodles fans out there, which I bet is everyone, get excited about Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda. It has everything about Cup Noodles right at the birthplace of the world’s first instant noodles! How geeky and cute, right?

Momofuku Ando invented Chicken Ramen, noodles that cooked instantly by just adding hot water, using common tools in his backyard in 1958. On a trip to the U.S., however, he realized that supermarket managers didn’t find it super convenient to eat because they still needed a cup to heat the noodles. This gave way to his ingenious invention of the Cup Noodles in a disposable cup. With this innovation, he became the CEO and Chairman of Nissin Food Products. Later, he also invented the Space Ramen, which can be eaten in space.

Inside the museum, you will get a visualization of the personal story of Mr. Ando and how the Cup Noodles came to be. The exhibits also show the 800 product packages that came after Chicken Ramen. If you want some immersion, it’s also nice to try some activities such as designing and customizing your original CUPNOODLES package, where you can select your favorite soup and toppings. If you’re in for actual cooking, you can also make Chicken Ramen by hand. This includes kneading, spreading, steaming, seasoning, and drying the wheat flour.

Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda is at 8-25 Masumicho, Ikeda, Osaka. It is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day except on Tuesdays. Admission is free. For the activities, the my CUPNOODLES Factory activity costs 500 yen per person while the Chicken Ramen making costs 1,000 yen per adult.

Kuchu Teien Observatory

If you can’t get enough of the stunning Osaka cityscape, head to another equally good observatory at the Umeda Sky Building. Designed by the prominent architect Hiroshi Hara, The Umeda Sky Building consists of two 173m tall skyscrapers erected at the end of the economic bubble in 1993. The open-air Floating Garden Observatory of Kuchu Teien on the 39th floor links these two buildings together.

However, the observatory is not the only attraction that this tourist spot has. To reach the top, you will ride either of the two aerial escalators made of glass panels that will make you feel like you’re floating on air. This is one of the popular Instagrammable spots in the landmark.

Kuchu Teien Observatory is at 1-chōme-1-88 Ōyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka. It is open for visitors from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. every day. Tickets are at 1,500 yen per adult.

Shopping and Food Trip in Osaka on Day 2

Dotonbori food district.

Living and embodying the term "kuidaore" ("eat until you drop") that is used to describe the food scene in Osaka, the people of Osaka spend on quality food more than anything else in the world. The best place to experience this interesting food culture is in the Dotonbori district, packed with eateries serving well-loved local dishes. It is a paradise for foodies who want authentic Japanese food from street food vendors, Izakaya-style pubs, and all-you-can-eat restaurants. Some exciting food that you can try include takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, kitsune udon, teppanyaki, gyoza, and candied fruit.

Dotonbori Food District is in Chuo Ward, Osaka. The opening and closing times of establishments here vary, so we recommend that you check online before going.

Shinsaibashi-suji

Shinsaibashi-suji is a shopping haven for all kinds of shoppers. Spanning two kilometers, this shopping street has many cosmetics stores, clothing establishments, and character shops. The entrance to this strip is by the Glico Man sign. Drugstores are found on almost every block of this area, with two well-known chains, Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Daikoku Drug, selling Japanese cosmetics and medicines. Apparel and accessories shops, originally from Japan, such as Uniqlo, GU, and Owndays, are also conveniently located here. There are also quirky capsule toy specialty stores, 100-yen shops, and character shops around the area.

Shinsaibashi-suji is in Chuo-ku, Osaka.

Amerikamura

If you’re in for something hip and trendy, you should follow wherever the Osaka youngsters go. These young folks are always seen at Amerikamura, or what they call Amerikamura, which is the center for new trends and street fashion such as the Harajuku style. People go here to shop for vintage clothes, vinyl records, and sneakers imported from the West Coast of America. You can also spot new concept clubs here.

Amerikamura is in Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo Ward, Osaka.

Umeda is the place to be if you want an all-in-one luxurious shopping and entertainment experience. The skyscrapers around the area are malls that house high-end fashion shops, lifestyle boutiques, and technology stores. Three of the most famous shopping centers here are Grand Front Osaka, LUCUA Osaka, and Yodobashi Camera, all found near the Umeda station. Big department stores also offer different kinds of products: Hankyu Umeda Main Store for luxury items, Hanshin Department Store Umeda for food and souvenir specialties, and Daimaru Umeda for other fashion items. As for entertainment, you can find karaoke and dart bars around the area.

Umeda is in Kita Ward, Osaka.

Kuromon Market

The Kuromon Market is a 600-meter stretch known for its fresh seafood. The history of the place dates back to the early 19th century when fish traders did business in this area. Since establishing the market in 1902, it has grown to hold approximately 150 establishments today. Some of the vendors sell fresh seafood, vegetables, and meat, while others are eateries that serve smaller portions of noodles, curry, grilled seafood, onigiri, and pickled vegetables.

Kuromon Market is at 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka.

Shinsekai is a district that was developed after being neglected for decades. Paris was chosen as the model for the northern half of the district, with the Tsutenkaku Tower modeled after the Eiffel Tower. The southern portion drew inspiration from Coney Island in New York. At Shinsekai, you will also find the Janjan Youocho shopping street, with its famous kushikatsu shops. Kushikatsu, one of Osaka’s best-known specialties, is freshly fried skewers of chicken, beef, pumpkin, and asparagus with dipping sauce.

Shinsekai is at 1 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwaku, Osaka.

Extra Day at Universal Studios Japan

Just in case you have one more day to spare, you might want to spend it in Universal Studios Japan . Universal Studios Japan is the third most visited theme park globally. This is because its concept is a seamless fusion between the Eastern and Western cultures - the concept of huge theme parks mimicking famous Western cities and the introduction of iconic Japanese characters such as Mario and Luigi. 

How to Get Around Osaka

The easiest and cheapest way to go around most of Osaka is via the Osaka Metro train line . The city’s main hubs, which are Shin-Osaka, Kita, Honmachi, Minami, and Tennoji, are conveniently located on the Midosuji subway line of the Osaka Metro. There are just two tourist spots that are relatively off the line: Universal Studios Japan through the JR line and Cup Noodles Museum Ikeda through the Hankyu Line. A prepaid ICOCA card is the best way to pay for your trips across all train companies.

Where to Stay and Eat in Osaka

We recommend that you stay in a district that’s accessible to everything, meaning to the train stations and shopping areas. The most famous ones are Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Umeda. In Shinsaibashi, you can stay at Hotel Nikko or nearby hotels such as Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu or Courtyard by Marriott Osaka Honmachi. In Namba, you may want to check in at Swissotel Nankai Osaka, Hotel Royal Classic Osaka, or Citadines Namba Osaka. In Umeda, great choices are Hilton Osaka or Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka.

As for food, there are countless excellent restaurants around the metro. Therefore, we will suggest the best ones for each type of Japanese food that you might want to eat. A must-try for Kobe beef is Ishida, located at the Links Umeda Mall. You shouldn’t miss Gyukatsu Motomura, which has branches in Namba and Umeda for beef katsu.

For ramen, don’t get discouraged by the long lines of Ichiran; it means it’s a crowd favorite! Meanwhile, if you want to experience a Michelin-rated restaurant serving Osaka's iconic okonomiyaki, check out Mizuno in Dotonbori. If you’re just too tired to leave the Shinsaibashi and Namba vicinity but still want good food, we recommend that you try out Sushi Takeuchi, Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae, and Tempura Tarojiro.

How to Get to Osaka

Spending your vacation in Osaka is perfect for relatively short trips as it is only four hours away from the Philippines via a direct flight. You can take the Nankai or JR lines from Kansai International Airport to the city center. If you’re coming from Tokyo , we recommend you experience Japan’s bullet train, the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen, to get to Osaka in two and a half hours.

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