12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days 🏯🍜

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We only had three and a half days in Osaka, and we were eager to explore everything this vibrant city has to offer — from neon-lit streets to historic temples. This blog isn’t a complete Osaka travel guide; it’s simply a personal account of what we did during our short stay.

 

From wandering Dotonbori and indulging in street food to cozy cat cafés, shopping streets, and even a magical Ghibli store, these were the highlights of our mini Osaka adventure.

 

If you want even more Japan adventures, check out my other travel stories here: Japan Blogs on Saru’s Postcards.

1. Explore Dotonbori 🌉✨

Dotonbori is the heart of Osaka’s nightlife and food culture. We loved strolling along the canal, snapping photos of the famous Glico man sign, and soaking in the neon lights. Nearby, you’ll find amazing street food stalls, karaoke bars, and quirky souvenir shops — perfect for a lively evening.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

2. Visit Osaka Castle 🏯🌸

No trip to Osaka is complete without Osaka Castle. The surrounding park is ideal for a stroll, and the castle museum gives you insight into Japan’s history. You can also enjoy panoramic city views from the observation deck.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

3. Eat Okonomiyaki & Takoyaki in Shinsekai 🍳🐙

We couldn’t leave Osaka without tasting its famous street food. In Shinsekai, we enjoyed okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls) while exploring this nostalgic district filled with retro shops and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

4. Wander Kuromon Ichiba Market 🐟🥩

Known as “Osaka’s kitchen”, this market is perfect for foodies. We sampled fresh seafood, local snacks, and fruit while taking in the lively atmosphere. If you love cooking or food photography, this is a must-visit.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

5. Shop in Shinsaibashi-suji 🛍️👗

This shopping street is packed with fashion boutiques, souvenir shops, and cafes. It’s a great spot to pick up unique items, from traditional Japanese crafts to trendy clothing.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

6. Visit Hozen-ji Temple 🪷🙏

A serene escape from the bustling city, Hozen-ji Temple offers moss-covered statues and a peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, you can find traditional tea houses and small eateries — perfect for slowing down a bit.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

7. See the Giant Lion Head at Namba Yasaka Shrine 🦁⛩️

We were amazed by the gigantic lion-head stage at this shrine — a unique and photogenic spot. It’s not only a cultural gem but also a short walk from Namba’s lively streets.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

8. Relax in a Cat Café 🐱☕

Cat cafés are almost everywhere in Osaka, and we simply couldn’t resist. After walking all day since our arrival in Japan every single day, we needed a little rest — and what better way than surrounded by adorable, purring cats?

 

We found a cozy café where we could sit back, sip some coffee, and recharge our energy while the cats wandered around freely. It was the perfect mini-break in our busy exploration schedule.

 

Nearby tips:

  • Cat cafés often pop up near Shinsaibashi, Namba, or Umeda, so you can fit a visit between shopping or sightseeing.

  • Many cafés have refreshments and snacks, making it a great spot to relax before your next adventure.

9. Try Rikuro’s Cheesecake 🍰🕒

No Osaka trip is complete without Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake. Located near Namba, it’s famous for its soft, jiggly texture. Be sure to watch the cheese soufflés rise in the oven while you wait — it’s mesmerizing!

10. Stroll Ebisubashi-suji Shopping Street 🏮🍡

Connecting Dotonbori and Namba, this street is full of shops, street food stalls, and entertainment options. It’s ideal for a leisurely evening walk or last-minute souvenir hunting.

11. Take a Day Trip to Kobe 🚆🥩

Just a short train ride from Osaka, Kobe offers beautiful harbor views, famous Kobe beef, and charming European-style streets. We explored the waterfront, tasted local specialties, and soaked in the relaxed atmosphere — a perfect contrast to Osaka’s bustling streets.

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

12. Visit a Ghibli Store at LUCUA Osaka 🚂🍃

As big Studio Ghibli fans, we couldn’t miss Donguri Kyōwakoku at LUCUA Osaka (Level 8, directly above Osaka Station). A huge Totoro greets you at the entrance, and inside we found all kinds of magical displays — from Jiji in a cage (Kiki’s Delivery Service) to a photo spot with Kiki’s bakery theme.

 

Of course, the highlight was spotting the Spirited Away train scene, recreated as part of the shop décor. Even if you don’t buy anything (though we totally did…), just walking around feels like stepping into a Ghibli world.

 

Nearby:

  • Grand Front Osaka — modern shopping and dining 🍣

  • HEP Five Ferris Wheel 🎡 for city views

  • Umeda Sky Building 🌆 with its Floating Garden Observatory

Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days
Dotonbori canal at night with neon signs, Osaka nightlife, Glico man sign, Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, historic landmark in Osaka, Okonomiyaki and takoyaki street food in Shinsekai, famous Osaka food, Fresh seafood stalls at Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka food market, Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street, fashion shops and crowds in Osaka, Moss-covered statue at Hozen-ji Temple, peaceful Osaka temple, Giant lion head stage at Namba Yasaka Shrine, unique shrine in Osaka, Visitors relaxing in an Osaka cat café, cat café Japan experience, Rikuro’s fluffy cheesecake in Namba Osaka, famous Japanese dessert, Ebisubashi-suji shopping street at night, Osaka shopping and food street, Kobe harbor waterfront view, Kobe day trip from Osaka, Ghibli store Donguri Kyowakoku at LUCUA Osaka, Totoro and Spirited Away displays, 12 Things We Did in Osaka in Just 3½ Days

Conclusion 🗾✨

Even though we only had three and a half days in Osaka, we managed to pack in so many unforgettable experiences— from wandering neon-lit streets in Dotonbori, indulging in Rikuro’s cheesecake, and exploring historic temples, to cozying up with cats and stepping into the magical world of Ghibli at LUCUA.

 

This trip reminded us that Osaka is a city of contrasts: bustling shopping streets sit alongside tranquil temples, modern towers rise above historic neighborhoods, and street food stalls sit side by side with high-end restaurants.

 

If you’re planning a short stay in Osaka, don’t stress about seeing everything — focus on what excites you the most, and let the city surprise you. For us, every moment, every bite, and every stroll felt special.

 

For more Japan adventures and travel inspiration, check out my other blogs here: Japan Blogs on Saru’s Postcards.

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