Osaka is commonly called kuidaore no machi, “the city where you’ll eat til you drop.” Indeed, many people visit Osaka just for the food — but there’s so much more to experience in Japan’s second-largest city, especially in the spring.

Fluttering cherry blossoms and a fairy-tale castle. Tiny izakaya bars and buzzing video-game stores. Ancient shrines and glowing lanterns. Not only is Osaka beautiful, but it’s considered to be friendlier and more affordable than Tokyo. We’ll guide you through some of the must-see and must-do attractions in Osaka.

3 Reasons to Buy Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Japan

1. Travel insurance can reimburse the costs of covered emergency medical care. Your domestic health insurance card won’t be accepted in Japan. “Medical caregivers in Japan require payment in full at the time of treatment or concrete proof of ability to pay before they will treat a foreigner who is not a member of the national health insurance plan,” the U.S. Department of State cautions.¹ That’s why it’s so important to have travel insurance with emergency medical and dental benefits.
2. Travel insurance can protect the money you spend on a trip. Osaka’s not exactly a budget destination — and flights from the United States may cost $750 or more.² Travel insurance with trip cancellation benefits can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel the trip for a covered reason.
3. Travel insurance can help if you need prescription medication. Japan has strict laws about prescriptions: not only can you be arrested for the possession, use, or importation of a prescription drug that is illegal in Japan, but if you run out of an important medication, local pharmacists won’t fill a U.S. prescription.³ Use the free Allyz® TravelSmart app  from Allianz Global Assistance to call 24-Hour Hotline Assistance, which can help you obtain a local prescription; the app can also tell you the nearest place to fill it.

One of the best travel insurance options for Japan or other far-flung destinations is the OneTrip Prime Plan, which includes substantial benefits to protect international travelers. Get a quote for your next trip.

3 of the Best Things to Do in Osaka

1. Marvel at the Osaka Castle. The elaborate roofline of the Main Tower is the best-known symbol of Osaka, but the castle grounds actually encompass 13 historic structures that trace their history to 1583.⁴
2. Pay homage to your favorite cheap snack. In Osaka, you can visit the Cup Noodles Museum and immerse yourself in hot, brothy goodness. See a recreation of the shed where instant chicken ramen was invented, sit in a theater shaped like the iconic cup, and design your own custom cup of soup to take home.
3. Tour “Osaka’s Kitchen.” The city itself has been called the “nation’s kitchen” for centuries, and the culinary heart of Osaka is the Kuromon Ichiba Market. At its 150 stalls, you can sample and buy sushi, shellfish, skewered meats, specialty teas and more.

3 of the Best Boutique Hotels in Osaka

If you’re visiting a vibrant city, why stay in a bland hotel? We found three unique hotels in Osaka with an aesthetic you won’t forget.

In the bustling Namba entertainment district, Hotel WBF Artstay Namba Osaka is a bright oasis decorated with artwork made by children in a Thai orphanage. The rooms are small but spotless; complimentary amenities include Japanese pajamas and slippers, as well as free afternoon drinks.

Budget travelers adore the Arietta Hotel, a chic and comfy boutique hotel with some rates under $50 per night. The location is convenient, the bedrooms and baths are spacious, and a basic breakfast is included.

For a truly authentic Osaka experience, consider booking your stay at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn with tatami mats, futons and a sauna. Yamatoya Honten is one favorite. It has just eight rooms, some with stunning city views, and the option of a private or communal bath. You can even try on a yukata (casual kimono) in the lobby.

3 of the Best Restaurants in Osaka

In a foodie city like Osaka, it’s tough to recommend just three places to eat. But we’ll try! The first dish you absolutely must try is ramen, a noodle soup that can be heavy or light, complex or simple. Learn the system — typically you buy a ticket from a vending machine, then present it to the staff — then find your favorite shop. Some of the best ramen in Osaka can be found at Kingemon Dotonbori Branch, known for its shoyu ramen and house-made soy sauce.⁵

Next on the menu: okonomiyaki. One of Osaka’s signature creations, okonomiyaki is like a grilled pancake stuffed with savory ingredients: pork belly, cabbage, grated yam and tempura bits. A small restaurant named Kiji is widely considered to be one of Osaka’s best restaurants for this dish.

The last Osaka treat? Takoyaki, which are battered dumplings filled with sliced octopus, spring onions and ginger, then served with spicy mayonnaise and sauce. You’ll find them everywhere in the city, but many fans swear by Aizuya, the restaurant where they were invented in 1935.⁶

If your mouth is watering, that means it’s time to book a trip to Osaka! Don’t wait too long to protect it, either; the best time to buy travel insurance is immediately after making your first trip payment. Get a quote, choose a plan, and keep it on hand with the TravelSmart app.

What Do I Need to Travel to Osaka?

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