Osaka, a prefecture where laughter and smiles never cease. This guide provides useful information for both tourists and residents.
Basic Information
Overview of Osaka
- Prefecture name: Osaka
- Area: 1,905 km2 (46th / 47 prefectures)
- Population: 8,823,358 (3rd / 47 prefectures)
- Website: https://www.pref.osaka.lg.jp.e.agb.hp.transer.com/
Osaka is Japan’s second-largest prefecture after Tokyo. At its core is Osaka City, including lively districts known as “Kita” (North) and “Minami” (South). “Kita” encompasses the business hub of “Umeda” and key transportation centres like Osaka Station, while “Minami” hosts entertainment and dining hotspots such as “Namba,” “Dotonbori,” and “Shinsaibashi.”
Osaka is known as a prefecture where you can meet friendly locals. People are proud of their unique culture and try to make you laugh, even if you don’t understand the language. Also known as a food paradise, Osaka is filled with a variety of soul foods to explore and enjoy. Osaka is home to Universal Studio Japan and recognised as a hub for entertainment. The diverse range of sightseeing spots and the city’s lively atmosphere set Osaka apart from other cities.
Location and Access
Situated in western Japan, Osaka is the biggest prefecture of the Kansai region. Easily accessible from both domestic and international locations, There are two major airports: Itami Airport and Kansai International Airport.
Access to Hokkaido:
- By Plane: Approximately 2 hours from Itami Airport or Kansai International Airport to New Chitose Airport.
Access to Tokyo:
- By Shinkansen: Approximately 2.5 hours from Shin-Osaka Station to Tokyo Station.
- By Plane: Approximately 1 hour from Osaka Itami Airport or Kansai International Airport to Haneda Airport or Narita Airport.
Access to Kyoto:
- By train: Approximately 30 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto via JR, or about 1 hour from Osaka Station (Umeda) to Kyoto city center via Hankyu.
Access to Fukuoka:
- By Shinkansen: Approximately 2.5 hours from Osaka Station to Hakata Station.
Access to Okinawa:
- By Plane: Approximately 2 hours from Osaka Kansai International Airport to Naha Airport.
Climate in Osaka
With distinct seasons, spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures. The main characteristics include hot summers and relatively low rainfall throughout the year. June is prone to the rainy season, and September is susceptible to the influence of typhoons.
Spring (March to May): From mid-March to April, there can be continuous rainfall.
- Average high: Approximately 15-25°C
- Average low: Approximately 5-15°C
Summer (June to August): After the rainy season ends, the days are very hot and humid.
- Average high: Approximately 25-35°C
- Average low: Approximately 20-25°C
Autumn (September to November): It’s a comfortable season, with dry air and often a refreshing breeze.
- Average high: Approximately 20-30°C
- Average low: Approximately 10-20°C
Winter (December to February):The cold is not very severe, and snow rarely falls.
- Average high: Approximately 10-15°C
- Average low: Approximately 0-5°C
Transportation in Osaka
Efficient subway networks and buses within Osaka make accessing tourist destinations easy. Bicycles are widely used, providing an ideal way to explore the city freely.
Train
Major routes covered by Japan Railways (JR), private railways, and subways, with convenient use of IC transportation cards. English signs are available everywhere at stations, making it tourist-friendly. Tourists will mainly use Metro Midosuji line and JR Osaka Loop Line.
Bus
Osaka City Bus and Hankyu Bus connect major areas and tourist spots. Bus fares vary based on distance. IC cards are accepted, howerver, announcements may only be in Japanese on some routes, which may be difficult for foreign tourists to use.
Taxi
Taxis are a convenient means of transportation, readily available near tourist attractions and major facilities. Starting fares are around 600 yen, with an additional approximately 320 yen per kilometer. Friendly drivers often engage in enjoyable conversations with passengers.
Bicycle
Numerous bicycle rental spots in the city make cycling a comfortable and safe way to explore Osaka’s relatively flat terrain.
Living Information
Living Environment
Osaka offers a great balance between the convenience of city life and the richness of nature. In Osaka City, you’ll find bustling shopping malls, a variety of restaurants, and plenty of entertainment options. Public transportation is highly developed, making it easy to get around by train or bus, so you can comfortably live here without needing a car.
If you venture to the suburbs, like Minoh or Takatsuki, you’ll discover lush parks and natural surroundings that allow you to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, Osaka is known as a casual gourmet place, where you can enjoy delicious meals at affordable prices, from street food to a wide range of international cuisines.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Osaka Prefecture is relatively lower as a big city, especially when it comes to housing. For example, in central Osaka city, a studio apartment typically costs between 50,000 to 60,000 yen per month, while a family-sized apartment ranges from 100,000 to 120,000 yen. If you move 20 to 30 minutes out from the city centre, you can find studio apartments for around 40,000 to 50,000 yen and family-sized apartments for 70,000 to 90,000 yen.
Utility bills are similar to those in other cities, averaging 10,000 to 15,000 yen per month. Osaka is also known for its budget-friendly prices, with plenty of affordable options for clothing and groceries compared to Tokyo. Dining out is also varied, with choices ranging from casual meals under 1,000 yen to upscale dining experiences. Overall, Osaka Prefecture is a place where you can enjoy the convenience of city life while keeping your living costs relatively low, around 150,000 yen per month including rent.
Tourist Information
Top Tourist Attractions
Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
An unmissable theme park filled with excitement and thrills from Hollywood movies. Purchase express passes if you want to ensure entry to popular areas such as Mario, Harry Potter, and Minions.
Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Japan’s largest aquarium, showcases popular animals like whale sharks, penguins, seals, and dolphins. To promote natural observation conditions, animal performances are not conducted.
Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/
Osaka Castle
A historical landmark and famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Explore Japanese samurai culture and museums within the castle. From the main square, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Website: https://www.osakacastle.net/
Dotonbori
A symbol of Osaka along the riverside, offering diverse entertainment and gourmet experiences. It’s also an ideal area for nightlife.
Local Specialties in Osaka
Osaka’s culinary scene is a feast of street food wonders from the iconic takoyaki to savory okonomiyaki and crispy kushikatsu. Markets like Kuromon Ichiba offer fresh delights.
- Takoyaki: Osaka’s representing soul food, round savory balls with a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful center, made from wheat flour batter mixed with octopus and green onions.
- Okonomiyaki: A Japanese-style pancake cooked on a griddle, featuring cabbage and pork. Enjoyed with various toppings and seasoned with sauce and mayonnaise.
- Ikayaki: It’s a simple dish similar to the okonomiyaki described above, with squid inside the dough. The chewy and fluffy texture with the dashi flavor is amazing.
- Kushikatsu: Deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables, available in various ingredients, enjoyed with original sauce.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
- Tenjin Matsuri: Held on July 24th and 25th annually, recognised as one of Japan’s three major festivals. Features boat processions, parades, and fireworks, attracting numerous participants and tourists.
- Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri: A traditional festival held every September, known for powerful men pulling danjiri (decorated festival floats) at high speeds, making sharp turns without slowing down.
Osaka, despite being Japan’s third-largest prefecture, is a welcoming and friendly destination where you can enjoy casual conversation with locals and indulge in local food delights. A stay in Osaka, filled with laughter, is sure to provide you with an undoubtedly enjoyable experience.
