15 best things to do in Osaka with kids

Dotonbori Area

The scenic Dotonbori in Osaka is simply a must see destination for all travellers visiting Osaka.

This colourful entertainment and tourist district is the beating heart of Osaka, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavours that epitomize Japan's urban culture.

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Cruise along the Dotonbori

One of the best ways to experience Dotonbori is by taking a cruise down the Dotonbori Canal.

You'll be in the heart of the action, but from the peaceful vantage point of the water.

As you glide along the canal, you'll see famous landmarks like the Glico Running Man Sign, Kani Doraku Crab Restaurant, and countless other interesting buildings.

Meanwhile your guide will share fascinating titbits about the hidden spots and backstories of some of Osaka's most iconic landmarks.

It's like getting a mini-history lesson while floating through the heart of the city!

The best part about the cruise is that you get to see Dotonbori from a completely different perspective.

It's a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the streets and just relax while taking in the sights.

One of the coolest parts is passing under the low bridges, you can almost touch them from the boat!

There are numerous cruise operators along the Canal and you can just purchase tickets on site.

The cruise isn't long, most are about 20 minutes. Still, it's a fun and relaxing way to take in the sights.

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Dotonbori Giant Ferris Wheel Ebisu Tower (Don Quijote Ferris Wheel)

As you stroll through the bustling streets of Dotonbori, you can't miss this quirky landmark.

Standing at 77.4 metres tall, this unique Ferris wheel is the world's first oval-shaped Ferris wheel.

It's perched on top of the Don Quijote store (or "Donki" as it's more affectionately known), perfect for some pre- or post-ride shopping.

The ride takes about 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to snap those insta-worthy shots or simply soak in the views of Osaka's landmarks.

Tickets are available on site.

Location: 7-13 soemon-cho chuo-ku osaka osaka 542-0084 (View on map)

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Fishing Restaurant ZAUO

For those seeking a unique dining experience that's fun for both adults and children alike, Fishing Restaurant ZAUO is an adventure in itself.

This innovative restaurant takes the concept of "catch of the day" to a whole new level, allowing diners to literally catch your own meals.

Upon entering ZAUO, you'll be greeted by various indoor fishing ponds teeming with different types of fish.

The restaurant provides fishing rods and bait, turning dinner into an exciting activity that will thrill kids of all ages.

The catch-and-eat concept is not only entertaining but also ensures the freshest possible meal.

Once a fish is caught, the staff will prepare it according to your preference - whether that's sashimi, grilled, or deep-fried.

For those who'd rather skip the fishing experience, there's also a regular menu available.

The atmosphere at ZAUO is lively and fun, with cheers erupting every time someone catches a fish. The decor, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese fishing boat, adds to the charm.

While the fishing aspect is undoubtedly the main draw, the quality of the food shouldn't be overlooked and we found that the food was delicious as well.

The fact that ZAUO is not just frequented by tourists but popular with locals as well is a testament to the quality of its food.

ZAUO proves that sometimes, the most memorable meals are the ones you have to work for - and in this case, the work is all part of the fun!

Location: Hotel Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka Namba B1F, 1-1-13, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 542-0073 (View on map)

Reservations are recommended.

Make reservations on TableCheck

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a theme park that caters to all ages with its incredible mix of movie magic, cutting-edge technology, and beloved franchises.

One of the newest and most exciting additions to USJ is Super Nintendo World, which truly feels like stepping into a Mario video game.

Kids (and nostalgic parents) will love this Interactive world. To fully experience the interactive elements here, consider purchasing one of the Power-up Bands.

The Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge ride, where you'll wear special goggles to see characters and items while zooming through the Mario Kart course, was unlike any ride we've ever been on. It really felt like we were in a real Mario Kart race!

Keep your eyes peeled for Mario, Luigi, Peach, and the cutest little mushroom dude, Toad.

Note: Entry to Super Nintendo World is on a timed entry basis so make sure you get a ticket or an Express Pass that comes with a Timed Entry Ticket. Get the earlies time that you can as this area only gets more crowded during the day.

Another highlight of USJ would undoubtedly be the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , where you'll be transported straight into the magical world of Harry Potter., making this a must-visit destination for all the Potterheads out there.

As soon as you enter the archway, you'll be greeted by the sight of Hogsmeade Village, complete with snow-capped roofs and crooked chimneys.

The attention to detail is impressive, from the moving portraits in Hogwarts to the Hogwarts Express train.

Sip on butterbeer, meet magical creatures like the Hippogriff, and soar above the castle in the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride.

The ride was one of the best in USJ and it really gives you the sensation of flying!

The Waterworld show is a timeless spectacle that continues to captivate audiences with its high-energy performances, stunts, and special effects, including the airplane crash sequence that never fails to amaze!

Insider tip: USJ usually opens before its official opening hours, allowing early bids to secure a head start on popular attractions. We entered up to 30-45 minutes earlier than the official timings during our visits.

Location: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan (View on map)

Get tickets to Universal Studios Japan

Purchase Express Passes:

• Express Passes
• Express Pass 7 (enjoy 7 USJ rides)

Osaka Bay Area/Tempozan Harbor Village

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

Standing at an impressive 112.5 metres tall, with a diameter of 100 metres, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel offers a breathtaking views of Osaka Bay and the surrounding cityscape.

Located just a 5 minute walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line, it is conveniently situated near popular attractions like Osaka Aquarium and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Osaka.

Each gondola comfortably seats up to eight people and is climate-controlled, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of the weather. The entire rotation takes about 15 minutes, giving ample time to soak in the views and snap photos.

As you ascend, the 15-minute journey unfolds, unveiling sights of Osaka's harbour, the urban skyline, and glimpses of Universal Studios Japan.

Keep an eye out for Hogwarts Castle which comes into full view during the ride.

While all 60 gondolas offer excellent views, don't miss the chance to ride in one of the 8 see-through gondolas for an extra thrill.

These feature transparent seats and floors for the best views all-round as you float above the city.

Location: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka City(View on map)

Get tickets to Tempozan Ferris Wheel on site or reserve advance tickets online

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Osaka Aquarium KAIYUKAN

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukuan is one of the largest aquariums in the world.

The aquarium's unique layout takes you on a spiral descent around a massive central tank, a 9 metre deep and 34 metre long tank that is home to the star attraction: the majestic whale sharks.

It's quite a sight to watch these gentle giants glide by, surrounded by other sharks, manta rays, and countless other species.

Osaka Aquarium excels in recreating natural habitats. Each meticulously crafted zone transports you to a different region of the Pacific Rim.

From the icy waters of Antarctica to the colourful coral reefs of the tropics, you'll feel like you're taking a grand tour of the Pacific Ocean's diverse ecosystems.

The Japanese forest river exhibit and the Ecuadorian rain forest display add a refreshing touch, showcasing the connection between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

One of the highlights for us was the jellyfish exhibit. Set against dark backgrounds with clever lighting, these graceful creatures create an almost otherworldly spectacle that's simply captivating.

The penguin area is also one of the most popular attractions at the aquarium, offering visitors a chance to observe these charming birds up close in a carefully recreated Antarctic environment.

One of the most exciting aspects of the penguin exhibit is the underwater viewing area.

Here, you can watch penguins "fly" through the water, showcasing their incredible swimming abilities.

It's fascinating to see how these birds, awkward on land, transform into graceful swimmers beneath the surface.

For a dose of playful energy, the seal exhibit is a must-see.

Watching these charismatic creatures frolic around, popping their heads through holes in the ice, and engaging in playful antics brings a smile to visitors of all ages!

Location: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan (View on map)

Get tickets to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukuan

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LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Osaka

Located in the Tempozan Marketplace dining and shopping complex, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre offers a family friendly experience for LEGO enthusiasts.

Highlights include: 

• Miniland: A detailed LEGO replica of Osaka's iconic landmarks
• Build & Test Zone: Create and race LEGO vehicles
• 4D Cinema: Immersive LEGO-themed short films
• LEGO Factory Tour: See how LEGO bricks are made
• Kingdom Quest: An interactive ride to save a princess
• Merlin's Apprentice: Pedal your carts to make them fly. The faster you pedal, the higher your cart will go!

While much smaller than the full-scale LEGOLAND parks, the Discovery Centre packs plenty of brick-building fun into an easily accessible location.

Location: Tempozan Market Place, 552-0022 Osaka, Minato Ward, Kaigandori, 1 Chome−1−10 天 (View on map)

Kita and Umeda Area

Umeda Sky Building

Standing tall in Osaka's bustling Umeda district, the Umeda Sky Building is an architectural wonder that shouldn't be missed.

This unique structure, completed in 1993, consists of two 40-storey towers connected by the Kuchu Teien (Floating Garden) Observatory which spans the 39th, 40th, and rooftop floors.

The building's futuristic design features a latticed framework and tubular bridges that create an eye-catching silhouette against the sky.

To reach the top, you'll ride in glass elevators that offer glimpses of the city as you ascend.

The observatory itself provides a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka.

Whether you visit during the day to see the city bustling below or at night to witness the twinkling lights, the views are simply spectacular!

On clear days, you can even spot Kobe to the west and parts of Kyoto to the Northeast.

The open air Sky Walk offers an exhilarating experience as you stand 173 meters above the ground.

You'll also find a charming and romantic feature that has become increasingly popular among visitors - The Heart Lock Fence area where you can attach heart-shaped padlocks purchased from the nearby shop.

Note that in order to do this, you'll need to pre purchase the "Admission Ticket + Heart-shaped Padlock" ticket.

After the exhilaration of the Sky Walk, settle into a comfortable seat at the SKY 40 cafe which offers a selection of home roasted original blend coffees, seasonal items and snacks, and a World Beer Selection.

The cafe boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that frame Osaka's sprawling cityscape, and is the perfect way to relax and soak in the views.

Before you descend back to the ground level, the Gallery Shop on the 39th floor is worth exploring.

The carefully curated selection here reflects both the building's unique architecture and Osaka's vibrant culture.

We had lots of fun picking up souvenirs here!

Location: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan (View on map)

Get tickets to observatory at Umeda Sky Building

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Kids Plaza Osaka

Kids Plaza Osaka is a place that's basically a child's dream come true (and pretty fun for us adults too)!

It's an amazing blend of a children's museum, science centre, and an indoor playground - all rolled into one exciting destination!

Kids Plaza Osaka is packed with interactive displays that teach kids about everything from the human body to world cultures.

As soon as you step inside, you'll be greeted by a mesmerizing Ball Circus that'll have you captivated. This is just the start of your adventure.

Head up to the 5th floor and you'll be hit with this incredible energy – kids laughing, colourful exhibits everywhere, and the buzz of little minds exploring and learning.

The Science section is a hands-on paradise where kids can explore all sorts of cool experiments.

There's a Pump Playground where little ones can send water swirling through tubes, and a bubble area where they can step inside a giant bubble!

At the Kids Street area, little ones can play dress-up and try out different roles in a mini-town.

For the tiniest travellers, there's a special area called Peek-A-Boo, filled with age appropriate toys for babies and toddlers.

And if you've got budding TV stars, there's even a TV studio where kids can try their hand at being on camera or behind it.

But the real showstopper at Kids Plaza Osaka is the incredible Kids Town.

This colourful, multi-story play structure is like something out of a dream.

Designed by the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, it's a wild and whimsical space that spans two floors.

Your kids will love crossing the red suspension bridge, scaling walls, and peeking out of quirky windows.

The Tube Slider is also just an awesome way to go from the fifth to fourth floor.

One of the things we love about Kids Plaza Osaka is how well-thought-out it is for families.

There are nursing rooms, plenty of diaper-changing spaces, and even strollers you can borrow for free.

Re-entry (on same day) is also permitted so you can break for lunch then head back to continue your exploration.

It's clear they've really considered what parents need to have a stress-free day out!

Location: 2 Chome-1-7 Ogimachi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0025, Japan (View on map)

Get tickets to Kids Plaza Osaka

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The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Step into a time machine and learn about the history of living conditions in Osaka at the Museum of Housing and Living.

This unique attraction offers visitors a chance to experience daily life in Japan's past, from the Edo period to the mid-20th century.

You can walk through a meticulous recreation of Osaka town, explore the traditional houses, and admire the attention to detail, from the architecture to the placement of everyday objects within them.

As you wander through the faithfully reconstructed town, you'll notice the ambience subtly shifting to reflect different times of the day and even the weather.

This clever use of lighting and sound effects adds an extra layer of immersion, making it feel as if you've truly stepped back in time.

"Night time" at the museum brings its own special magic.

As day turns to night in this miniature world, you'll be treated to a special surprise - a simulated fireworks display that adds a festive touch to your visit, and evokes the spirit of festivals from bygone eras.

If you're looking to enhance your experience, the museum offers a fantastic opportunity to dress up in Japanese traditional clothing for 1,000 yen, making your photos that much more memorable and picture-perfect.

This hidden gem is not often on tourists' itineraries for Osaka but it's well worth a visit!

Location: 8F Housing Information Center bldg, 6-4-20 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi (View on map)

Get tickets

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Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street is a shopper's paradise and foodie's dream come true!

Stretching for nearly 2.6 kilometres, Tenjinbashi-suji is actually Japan's longest shopping street.

The street is packed with over 600 shops, ranging from trendy boutiques to traditional Japanese stores.

The variety of food here is simply mindboggling as the street is filled with fantastic eateries and food stalls serving up everything from piping hot takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), to fluffy taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste) and crispy tempura.

Tenjinbashi-suji can get pretty busy especially on weekends but don't let that deter you - the lively atmosphere is part of its charm!

Just be prepared for crowds and maybe plan your visit for a weekday if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Location: View on map

Other Areas of Osaka

Osaka Castle

An iconic Osaka landmark, Osaka Castle stands as a majestic reminder of Japan's rich history.

This magnificent fortress, with its imposing stone walls and iconic green-roofed tower, provides a beautiful backdrop for your day of exploration.

Upon stepping into the castle grounds, you'll be transported back in time to the days of samurais and shoguns.

Inside the castle, visitors can explore the various galleries and exhibits.

From ancient artifacts to intricately crafted armour, each display tells a fascinating story about Osaka's significance in Japanese heritage.

Climb to the top of the castle's top floor observation deck and you'll be rewarded with a bird's eye view of Osaka's modern skyline as well as Osaka Castle's picturesque grounds.

While the interior of the castle can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, the spacious park surrounding it offers a perfect retreat.

Families can enjoy a picnic on the grounds, particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.

The queue for on-site tickets can stretch up to 30 minutes, so save yourself some time and frustration by nabbing your tickets in advance.

Tickets from Klook allow you to skip the queues and dive straight into your castle adventure.

‍Insider tip: It's worth noting that exploring the castle's exterior and park is free of charge.

This allows families to appreciate the castle's grandeur without committing to the entrance fee if your time or interest is limited.

Location: 1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan (View on map)

‍Get tickets to Osaka Castle

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teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka

Stepping into teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is like entering a digital dreamscape where nature and technology intertwine in mesmerizing harmony.

Located in the expansive Nagai Botanical Garden, this evening outdoor exhibit is a feast for the senses and offers visitors a unique blend of real flora and interactive art installations.

The garden comes alive after dark, transforming into a wonderland of light and colours.

Flowers bloom and wither in accelerated time, butterflies flit across glowing rock formations, and streams of light cascade around your feet.

The scale and ingenuity of the exhibits left us in awe.

The garden is divided into several distinct areas, each offering a unique immersive experience.

You are free to move between these areas as you wish allowing for a personalized experience.

The installations are interactive and responsive to human presence, weather conditions, and even wildlife such as birds, making each visit unique.

The combination of natural elements and technology is seamlessly executed, creating a surreal ambience that's both calming and enchanting.

As you wander through illuminated grass fields and forests of floating lamps, you can't help but feel transported to another world.

One highlight for us were the Ovoids in the Camellia Forest, where waist-high glowing eggs infuse the surroundings with a magical aura.

These ethereal egg-shaped lamps emit a soft, warm light that shifts and changes colours.

As visitors move through the space, the lamps closest to them light up and change colour, creating a ripple effect that spreads through the entire forest.

Another area that delighted us were the large Ovoids in the Eucalyptus Forest, boasting towering 10-foot tall luminous orbs that beckon playful exploration.

Children and adults alike will find revel in navigating between these colossal orbs, engaging with them in a way that sparks joy and curiosity.

Overall, a visit to teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is sure to be a memorable experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional botanical gardens, and invites visitors to explore the intersection of art and nature in a whole new light!

Location: 1-23 Nagaikoen, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 546-0034, Japan (View on map)

Get tickets

Other things to do in Osaka

Gashapon Stores

If you love quirky or unique collectibles, or simply the thrill of turning the crank and the surprise of what your capsule may contain, then Gashapon stores may be your thing.

You can find these machines scattered throughout Osaka but the Gashacoco store in Namba stands out for its size and variety.

From adorable animal figurines to limited edition toys there's something for everyone, whether you're a fan of anime, video games, or Japanese culture.

It's like embarking on a mini treasure hunt every time you insert a coin into a machine.

And with the affordable prices of each capsule (typically 300-500 yen), it's easy to get carried away and try your luck multiple times!

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Visit an Animal Cafe

Animal cafes are big in Japan and Osaka is no exception.

These cafes aren't just about cats and dogs (though those are really fun too).

You can find yourself face-to-face with adorable micro pigs, wise-looking owls, and even fascinating reptiles.

Some of them are like mini zoos where you can get up close and personal with animals you might not encounter in your everyday life.

The best part is you get to interact with these wonderful creatures in a cozy, relaxed environment.

It's a great way to de-stress and indulge in some animal therapy.

A word of caution for parents with young kids.

while these cafes are generally family-friendly, it's super important to remember that the animals' welfare comes first.

If your little ones tend to get a bit too excited or noisy, or if they're not gentle with the animals, you might be asked to leave.

It's all about creating a safe and calm space for both the animals and visitors

So, before you go, have a chat with your kids about using their "inside voices" and treating the animals with care.

It's a great opportunity to teach them about respecting animals too!

Where to Stay

Centara Grand Hotel Osaka

If you're looking for a family friendly hotel in the heart of Osaka that combines comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury, the Centara Grand Hotel Osaka might just be your perfect match.

This relative newcomer to the city's hotel scene, having opened its doors in 2023, is already making waves with travellers.

It has also become of our favourite places to stay with the family in Osaka.

One of the standout features are their family rooms.

Designed with both parents and kids in mind, these spacious accommodations comfortably sleep up to two adults and two children.

Mom and Dad get their privacy with a king-sized bed, while the little ones get to live out their bunk bed dreams in a separate area.

The kiddos absolutely love their bunk beds, especially when it comes with a bird's-eye view of the bustling city below.

The rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows, giving you a panoramic view of Osaka's skyline.

After a long day of sightseeing, you can unwind in the luxurious rain shower or take a relaxing soak in the bathtub.

Location-wise, the Centara Grand Hotel Osaka is a winner.

Situated in the lively entertainment and shopping district of Namba, it's a shopper's paradise.

Popular malls like Namba Parks, Namba City, and 0101 Namba Marui are all within walking distance.

The hotel is just a 7 to 10 minute stroll to various subway lines and train stations, including Namba station and Osaka Namba, providing a convenient base for your Osaka adventures.

Not to mention the famous Dotonbori is just a leisurely 15-minute walk away.

Location: 2 Chome-11-50 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan (View on map)

Book stays at Centara Grand Hotel Osaka‍