OSAKA EXPO 2025 - Mar 27 2025

5 Must-Visit Osaka Spots to Pair with the 2025 Osaka Expo

5 Osaka sightseeing spots to enjoy along with the Osaka Expo
① Osaka Castle - A symbol of history and nature
② Dotonbori - Enjoy Osaka's gourmet food and lively atmosphere
③ Universal Studios Japan (USJ) - A theme park full of fun
④ Kaiyukan - Relax and unwind at one of the world's largest aquariums
⑤ Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory - Panoramic view of Osaka's nightscape
Summary of 5 Osaka sightseeing spots to enjoy along with the Osaka Expo

5 Osaka sightseeing spots to enjoy along with the Osaka Expo

5 Must-Visit Osaka Spots to Pair with the 2025 Osaka Expo

The Osaka-Kansai Expo, which will be held from April 13 to October 13, 2025, is a major event that will attract attention from all over the world. This expo, which will be held on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka, is not only a great opportunity to enjoy cutting-edge technology and cultural exchange, but also to enjoy sightseeing in the surrounding area of Osaka. Here are 5 tourist spots in Osaka that you should visit along with the expo. Be sure to experience the charms of Osaka, which is full of history, gourmet food, and entertainment!

① Osaka Castle - A symbol of history and nature

Osaka Castle, towering over the center of Osaka, is a historic spot that symbolizes the Sengoku period. Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle offers a spectacular view from the castle tower, where you can feel the breath of the past in contrast to the future-oriented Expo. The surrounding Osaka Castle Park is also famous for its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, making it the perfect place to refresh yourself while strolling. It is easily accessible, about 30 minutes by train from the Expo site. Climbing the castle tower and looking out over the city of Osaka will add to the excitement of your trip!

Osaka Castle

access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Osaka Loop Line "Osakajokoen Station" or Osaka Metro "Morinomiya Station"
Recommended points: Enjoy a picnic-like atmosphere in the park while learning about history from the exhibits inside the castle tower.

② Dotonbori - Enjoy Osaka's gourmet food and lively atmosphere

Osaka is known as the "city of gourmets." Its center, Dotonbori, is a spot where you can enjoy Osaka specialties such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. The canal area, decorated with Glico signs and flashy neon lights, becomes even more lively at night. It's the perfect place to feel the energy of down-to-earth Osaka after experiencing the cutting edge at the Expo. Taking photos while eating is sure to make for great social media posts!

Dotonbori

Access: About 5 minutes walk from Osaka Metro "Namba Station"
Recommended points: Take a commemorative photo in front of Kani Douraku's moving crab sign and munch on some freshly made takoyaki.

③ Universal Studios Japan (USJ) - A theme park full of fun

Universal Studios Japan, located about 20 minutes by car from the Expo site, is a mecca for entertainment that both adults and children can enjoy. It is home to attractions from Hollywood movies and popular Japanese anime, and offers a sense of excitement that is linked to the international atmosphere of the Expo. There are also many time-limited events, so if you visit during the Expo, you can have fun all day.

Universal Studios Japan

Access: About 5 minutes walk from Universal City Station on the JR Yumesaki Line
Recommended points: Immerse yourself in the world of Mario at Super Nintendo World.

④ Kaiyukan - Relax and unwind at one of the world's largest aquariums

Located in the Osaka Port area near the Expo site, Kaiyukan is one of the world's largest aquariums. You'll be soothed by the tanks filled with giant whale sharks and colorful sea creatures. In keeping with the Expo theme of "Designing a Future Society for Life," it's wonderful to experience the diversity of nature and life. You can also enjoy the Ferris wheel and shopping in the surrounding Tempozan area.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Access: Approximately 5 minutes walk from Osaka Metro "Osakako Station"
Recommended points: Immerse yourself in the tunnel-shaped aquarium and feel like you're walking through the ocean.

⑤ Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory - Panoramic view of Osaka's nightscape

Umeda Sky Building, located in the Kita area of Osaka, is attractive for its uniquely designed rooftop observation deck. With a 360-degree panoramic view, you can enjoy the cityscape and night view of Osaka. You may even be able to see the Expo site in the distance, and the view of the future and present intersecting is impressive. We also recommend enjoying a slightly luxurious dinner after the Expo.

Umeda Sky Building

access: Approximately 10 minutes walk from JR Osaka Station or Osaka Metro Umeda Station
Recommended points: Visit at dusk to enjoy the romantic night view.

Summary of 5 Osaka sightseeing spots to enjoy along with the Osaka Expo

The Osaka-Kansai Expo is a special opportunity to experience the future, but if you also enjoy Osaka's traditions, cuisine, and entertainment, your trip will be twice as satisfying. The historic Osaka Castle, the lively Dotonbori, the fun-filled Universal Studios Japan, the relaxing Kaiyukan Aquarium, and the spectacular Umeda Sky Building - all of these are spots that go perfectly with the Expo. Be sure to make time for it and enjoy the multifaceted charms of Osaka!