Although it’s one of Japan’s smallest prefectures, the modern Osaka Prefecture is a commercial and culinary powerhouse. It's home to Osaka city and the busy Kansai International Airport, and neighbors the popular Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe. Thanks to attractions such as Osaka Castle and Shitenno-ji Temple, plus fistfuls of excellent markets and eateries, there are plenty of things to do in Osaka Prefecture. You’ll find a grittier urban culture here than in polished Tokyo, and people who defy many Japanese stereotypes. Kampai to that.
Osaka Prefecture is a year-round destination because there’s always something to do whatever the weather. However, summers are very hot and humid, while winters are milder than in Tokyo. Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) are generally the most pleasant. Spring blossoms and autumn leaves liven up the parks and gardens in an otherwise rather concrete-heavy urban area, and you can go between indoor and outdoor spaces without worrying about the weather.
Osaka Prefecture has an extensive public transportation system that’s fairly easy for non-Japanese speakers and readers to navigate. The Midosuji Subway Line is especially useful as it runs north–south through the central city and connects many neighborhood hubs. The JR Osaka Loop Line is also a convenient way to sightsee around the city. Use a prepaid Icoca card for tap-on tap-off access to the train and subway, or a Suica or Pasmo card if you’re arriving from Tokyo. Local buses connect to more out-of-the-way places but are a bit less straightforward to navigate.
Every region of Japan has its culinary specialties, but Osaka Prefecture is especially beloved as a foodie hotspot. Although you can get most Osaka dishes throughout the country, seeking out the authentic versions in their home prefecture is worth the effort. Look out for takoyaki (grilled octopus balls), okonomiyaki (pancakes), kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered items), teppanyaki (hotplate restaurants), and kitsune udon (noodles with deep-fried tofu). Thanks to stiff competition between restaurants, the quality of food in Osaka Prefecture tends to be very high.
Local Currency Japanese Yen (¥) | Time Zone JST (UTC +9) | Country Code +81 | Language(s) Japanese | Attractions 38 | Tours 535 | Reviews 1,496 |
Osaka is a city while Osaka Prefecture is an administrative area that extends beyond the city. Osaka city is within the prefecture. In practical terms for travelers, there’s not much difference between the city and the prefecture as the prefecture encompasses the city. The central city areas are most interesting to travelers.
...MoreOsaka, which is both a city and a prefecture, is best known for its beautiful Osaka Castle, its down-to-earth cuisine, and its outgoing people (compared to many other Japanese). Osaka was traditionally a trading-class city so it has a working-class vibe that is reflected in its cuisine and shopping experiences.
...MoreYes, two days in Osaka Prefecture is generally enough, especially if you’re short on time in Japan. Osaka has some interesting modern architecture as well as the reconstructed Osaka Castle, and is a culinary hotspot. It’s also a handy jumping-off point for exploring other nearby places that may be more interesting, such as Kyoto.
...MoreYes, Osaka Prefecture is worth visiting. Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city (after Tokyo and Yokohama), and it’s a great place to experience contemporary Japanese culture. It’s also famous for its food and shopping. However, travelers short on time might want to limit their time in Osaka as it’s not the most interesting or attractive place in Japan.
...MoreNo, Osaka Prefecture is not necessarily nicer than Tokyo Prefecture. Both are large modern prefectures and cities, where you can find a variety of cultural and culinary attractions. Tokyo is much larger than Osaka, which is a pro for some travelers and a con for others. Osaka is no nicer or more beautiful than Tokyo, though.
...MoreYes, most travelers find Kyoto Prefecture is better than Osaka Prefecture for sightseeing and cultural activities. Unlike Osaka, Kyoto wasn’t extensively damaged during World War II, so it has a greater concentration of old heritage sites. While Osaka is a lively city and a good place to experience contemporary Japanese culture, Kyoto is better for tourists.
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