Things to do in Osaka, Japan
Recommended
-
Learn about Bunraku
Osaka has been at the heart of bunraku (traditional Japanese puppet theatre) for many centuries. The exhibition at the National Bunraku Theatre has a wealth of knowledge about this quintessentially Japanese art form, and you can even have a go with the puppets yourself.
-
Kyoto Handicraft Centre
While looking around the Kyoto Handicraft Centre, watch real craftsmen working on their one-of-a-kind creations. Observe how Kyoto’s most prominent traditional handicrafts are made, and then try to make them yourself, with 60-minute sessions led by specialist, English-speaking instructors.
-
Visit the Instant Noodle Museum
Did you know that instant noodles were invented in Japan? One man had the philosophy that “peace comes to the world when people have enough to eat”, and his passion led to the invention of this staple of modern Japanese cuisine. You can find out how instant noodles were invented, its history, and you can also make your own, original noodles!
-
Taste Asahi Beer in a Brewery
Fancy a beer? You can taste world-famous Asahi beer at Suita Brewery in Osaka. Not only do you get a guided tour of the brewery, but you can sample the freshly brewed beer – free! Advance booking is necessary.
-
Meet deer at Nara Park
If you’re feeling a little tired walking along Kyoto’s long avenues, why not visit Nara Park and have a break with its resident deer. The park is home to approximately 1,200 deer, and they are surprisingly tame. The park is also close to key attractions such as Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Todaiji Temple – containing the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana - making the park the perfect pit-stop between sights.
-
Visit Higashi (East) Honganji Temple and Nishi (West) Honganji Temple
It’s just a short walk from Kyoto Station to these famous Temples – Higashi (East) Honganji Temple and Nishi (West) Honganji Temple – both of which are free to enter. There are few better ways to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s peaceful serenity.
-
Visit Nishiki Market
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, Nishiki Market bustles along a narrow, old, shop-lined street. There is a mouth-watering array of fresh and processed foods available, including Kyoto specialities such as pickles, Japanese sweets, dried food, sushi and fresh seafood and vegetables. Daimaru department store has a first-class food hall in its basement where there are many free samples on offer – it’s a great way to sample Japanese cuisine or stave off hunger pangs until dinnertime.
-
Visit the Imperial Palace in Kyoto
Kyoto Imperial Palace was the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family until 1868, when the Emperor and capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. Free guided tours of the grounds enable you to get to grips with the core of Japan’s traditional monarchy, without an expensive price-tag.
