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In a fairly formal and reserved country, Osaka feels funky and laidback. That is reflected in the endless options for a quick delicious bite, but it’s the people, Osakans, who set the stage, and they are boisterous welcoming hosts. Belly up to a standing bar or settle into a tiny izakaya and you can expect to be engaged. For us, that always elevates the culinary experience to a higher level.
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Yoko, Osaka Tour Leader
Yoko is a cooking instructor and guide based in Osaka. Along with leading cooking classes in Osaka, she has also led workshops in traditional Japanese fermentation techniques abroad. She believes local kitchens are the best place in which to get to know a country and looks forward to introducing visitors to Osaka’s and Japan’s unique food and culture.
Hikaru, Osaka Photographer
Osaka-based Hikaru began working as a photographer in 2019, focusing primarily on street snaps and portraits.
He started working as a full-time photography assistant in 2023, shooting commercial projects. He currently specializes in profile photography, event photography, and creating videos for websites and social media.
Miyo, Osaka Food Leader
Miyo has a background in Comparative Cultural Studies and experience as an interpreter and guide, specializing in bridging cultural gaps through meaningful connections. Fluent in English and Japanese, she creates immersive experiences by sharing the history and stories behind local cuisine. Beyond guiding, she is a certified pronunciation coach, helping Japanese professionals refine their English. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, cooking, sewing, and yoga—hobbies that spark conversations and bring people together.
CB’s work was started in 2009 by Ansel Mullins and Yigal Schleifer as a humble food blog called Istanbul Eats. The following year we published a book of our reviews, now in its tenth edition. That year we also launched our first culinary walk in Istanbul, a route we are still using today. In 2012, we realized that what we built in Istanbul was needed in other cities we knew and loved. We started CB that year with Athens, Barcelona, Mexico City and Shanghai as pioneering members of our network. Since then, we’ve been regularly adding worthy destinations – culinary capitals where the food tells an even bigger story – to our network. Today, we work in over 20 different locations on four continents.
Where is Osaka?
Osaka sits in Japan’s Kansai region, on the island of Honshu. Historically a merchant city, Osaka’s position on the Yodo River and Osaka Bay has played a big factor in shaping its identity. Think of it as Japan’s pantry – a place where kuidaore (“eating oneself bankrupt” or, more colloquially, “eat until you drop”) is a badge of honor.
What are the best things to do in Osaka?
Beyond the obvious – diving headfirst into the city’s well-known street food scene – you can lose yourself in the glittery maze Dotonbori or find tranquility in the serene Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine, one of the oldest in Japan. For a taste of the contemporary, explore the trendy boutiques and galleries of the Amerikamura district.
When is the best time of year to visit Osaka?
Osaka is a great year-round destination, but spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) is when the weather is most reliably pleasant. Spring brings cherry blossoms and autumn is painted in red and gold – this can mean more tourists, but it also makes for some unforgettably spectacular foliage.
What is the weather like in Osaka?
Osaka’s got four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid; winters are fairly mild. Be prepared for the rainy season in June and July, and occasional typhoons in late summer and early autumn.
Is Osaka expensive?
Osaka can be surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to its big sister Tokyo. While high-end dining and accommodation options abound, there are plenty of budget-friendly alternatives. From affordable izakayas (pubs) to delicious street food, you can easily eat well on the cheap.
Is Osaka safe?
Osaka has a low crime rate and is considered quite safe. As with any major city, it’s always wise to be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
What is the best food in Osaka?
Known as “Japan’s kitchen,” Osaka has a lot going on culinarily. Start with the iconic takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and get ready for a diverse array of offerings, from family-run tachinomi (standing bars) to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Where is the best place to stay in Osaka?
For first-time visitors, the Namba and Umeda areas offer convenient access to major attractions and transportation hubs. If you’re seeking a more local vibe, consider staying in the Shinsekai district, known for its retro atmosphere and kushikatsu (skewer) restaurants.
What is the COVID-19 situation in Osaka?
Currently, there are no mask mandates or specific COVID-19 mandates in place in Osaka.
Can Americans travel to Osaka?
American citizens can generally enter Japan visa-free for tourism purposes for up to 90 days.
Can I fly directly to Osaka?
Kansai International Airport (KIX) serves as the main gateway to Osaka, with direct flights from many international destinations. If you’re already in Japan, the shinkansen (bullet train) offers a swift (2.5-3.5 hours) and scenic journey from Tokyo.
What is the best restaurant in Osaka?
Our favorite restaurants in Osaka range from hole-in-the-wall ramen joints to Michelin-starred sushi places. Right now, we’re obsessed with Takoyaki Shop, which you can read about in our piece on exploring Osaka by night.
Are there beaches in Osaka?
While Osaka itself isn’t known for its beaches, you can easily access nearby coastal areas like Suma Beach and Nishikinohama Beach, an hour away by train.
Is Osaka suitable for children?
A family-friendly city, Osaka has plenty to offer young travelers. There’s interactive exhibits at the Osaka Science Museum and even Universal Studios Japan. It can get crowded, so consider basing your family in areas like Namba or Umeda, which offer wider streets and better pedestrian infrastructure.
Is Osaka accessible for folks who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility?
While Japan is becoming increasingly accessible, with improved infrastructure at many train stations and tourist attractions, navigating some of Osaka’s older neighborhoods with narrow streets and uneven surfaces may present challenges. It’s always wise to check accessibility information in advance.
