3 things to do Updated 16 September 2026

Things to do in Osaka

Things worth doing, bookable and self-guided

3 things to do in Osaka, bookable and self-guided, each carrying a verdict.

An open sightseeing boat passing under neon signs on the Dotonbori canalIt depends

Tombori River Cruise

Free on the Amazing Pass and the only thing on Dotonbori that is better from the water than the pavement.

¥2,000 11:00–21:00 Tazaemon-bashi pier
OsakaExplore

Not to be missed

DotonboriTenjin MatsuriOsaka Castle
The Universal Studios Japan globe at the park entrance in OsakaIt depends

Universal Studios Japan

There is no single USJ ticket price any more, and the change is recent enough that most published figures are already wrong.

From ¥8,900 Demand-based pricing Konohana-ku
OsakaExplore
Stalls of second-hand goods filling the grounds of Shitenno-ji templeWorth it

Shitennoji flea market

One fixed date a month turns a quiet temple into the best market in Kansai, and it costs nothing to walk into.

21st monthly Free Tennoji-ku
OsakaExplore

Not to be missed

Shitenno-jiShinsekaiNamba to Shinsekai

The rest of Osaka

Every other collection in the city guide, with what is in it.

Sights 6 Museums 3 Districts 4 Restaurants 6 Bars 3 Where to stay 4 What to eat 4 Walks 2 Events 2