Osaka, Japan is famous for its pristine castle, adrenaline-inducing Universal Studios theme park, and bustling Dotonbori shopping and eating area. These places all have their own merits however you may wish to go off the beaten path. Here are some underrated places to visit in Osaka.
Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine
The Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine is one of the oldest in Osaka. Greeted by a bright red torii gate, you’ll enter a tranquil space which belies historic Japan. This shrine is dedicated to Inari, the deity of agriculture and prosperity, and features traditional buildings and a beautiful garden. You’ll spot fox statues around its grounds, acting as Inari’s messengers between heaven and earth.
Karato Market
While often dwarfed by the Kuromon Ichiba Market, Karato Market is well worth a visit. Japanese markets are always a lively affair, and Karato Market is no exception! It draws locals and visitors in for two neat reasons. The first is that its fishermen are known for selling fugu – pufferfish, a specialty seafood; and the second is its weekend Ikiiki-bakangai event where seafood is on special. Indulge in the freshest sashimi, fugu soup and sushi.
Doguyasuji Arcade
Found in the heart of the Namba neighbourhood, Doguyasuji Arcade is the perfect stop for finding items for your kitchen. It is very culinary-centric so you can buy the sharpest knives, charming Japanese ceramic dishes, takoyaki moulds and special Japanese ingredients to cook up a storm or give as a present.
Osaka Ekimae Buildings
You wouldn’t normally think to find dinner underground, but you’ll do just that at the Osaka Ekimae Buildings. Four buildings are connected via their basement levels, filled with a maze of tiny bars and eateries. It’s a popular spot for locals to frequent after work for a beer and snack. Most of the businesses offer ‘one coin’ menus, meaning drinks and snack items are just ¥500!
Minoh Falls
With water cascading over a 33-metre drop, Minoh Falls are an impressive sight to see. Wander along a 2.8-kilometre path through Minoh Park and its lush foliage to be rewarded with this peaceful spot. Minoh Park is particularly beautiful in autumn when the leaves begin to turn all kinds of fiery colours.
Suntory Yamazaki Distillery
Calling all whisky lovers! The Suntory Yamazaki Distillery is located on the outskirts of Osaka for you. It was purposely built on top of one of the ‘100 best water sources’ in Osaka, meaning high quality water is incorporated into the whisky brewing process. A visit to the distillery will showcase the fascinating process, complete with a tasting of raw and completed whiskys.
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
The city of Osaka has been through many reconstructions during its longstanding history. Each period has its own unique style of houses, architecture, and sacred sites so the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living offers a walk through time. Accompanied by your local volunteer guide, learn about a part of Osaka’s history in the Meiji, Taisho, Showa and Edo periods.
Ikuno Korea Town
Even though you’re in Japan, we love finding touches of other cultures interwoven into the country. Osaka has Ikuno Korea Town, an exciting area filled with wafting scents of sizzling K-BBQ and the tunes of K-Pop. With 20% of residents of Korean descent, explore the streets to find Korean groceries, skincare, cafes and food.
If Osaka is on your bucket list, discover this fascinating city on a Globus or Cosmos tour in Japan.
