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 determined to soak up as much of this vibrant city as possible — from neon-lit streets and lively food markets to historic temples and quirky cafés. This isn’t a complete Osaka travel guide; it’s a personal account of what we experienced 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, and walking along the canal is an experience in itself. We loved snapping photos of the iconic Glico Man sign and watching the neon lights reflect in the water.

 

Nearby, the streets are lined with street food stalls, karaoke bars, and quirky souvenir shops, making it perfect for an evening stroll. One of my favorite moments was stopping to try fresh takoyaki right off the grill — the combination of hot octopus balls and sweet sauce is unforgettable!

 

Tip: Visit Dotonbori at night for the full neon-lit spectacle, but return during the day if you want to shop and see the canal from a calmer perspective.

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 visiting Osaka Castle. Surrounded by Osaka Castle Park, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially during cherry blossom season when the castle grounds are blanketed in soft pink petals.

 

Inside, the castle museum gives insight into Japan’s history, samurai culture, and castle architecture. Don’t miss the observation deck — panoramic views of Osaka are absolutely worth it. We found ourselves lingering, taking in the contrast of historical architecture against the modern city skyline.

 

Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk in the park.

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 🍳🐙

Shinsekai is a nostalgic district with retro shops and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, but its food scene is the real highlight. We savored okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and takoyaki while exploring the streets.

 

What makes this area so charming is its atmosphere — a mix of old Osaka vibes, neon signs, and the smells of street food. Each bite felt like a true taste of the city.

 

Tip: Look for small family-run eateries for the most authentic flavors.

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”, Kuromon Ichiba Market is a must for food lovers. We sampled fresh seafood, grilled scallops, skewers, and seasonal fruits while taking in the bustling market energy.

 

The vendors were lively and welcoming, always ready to share a sample or explain their specialties. For food photography enthusiasts, this place is a paradise — the colors, textures, and smells are all incredibly vibrant.

 

Tip: Go in the morning to see the market at its liveliest and grab the freshest seafood.

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 🛍️👗

Shinsaibashi-suji is a fashion and shopping haven. From traditional Japanese crafts to trendy boutiques and quirky cafes, it’s a place to get lost for hours.

 

We found unique souvenirs and gifts here, and the street’s covered arcade makes it ideal even if the weather isn’t perfect.

 

Tip: Don’t forget to explore the smaller side streets — often, hidden gems are tucked away from the main thoroughfare.

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 is famous for its moss-covered statues and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to pause and reflect after hours of exploring Osaka.

 

Nearby, traditional tea houses and small eateries offer a calm break, giving a glimpse of old Osaka tucked behind the city’s neon glow.

 

Tip: Bring a camera — the mossy statues and temple alleyways make for beautiful, atmospheric photos.

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. It’s not only photogenic but also incredibly unique. The massive mouth-shaped stage is said to swallow evil spirits, making it a cultural gem that’s fun and intriguing to visit.

 

Tip: Combine this visit with Dotonbori or Shinsaibashi — it’s just a short walk away.

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 🍰🕒

Rikuro’s cheesecake is a must-try Osaka specialty. Near Namba, it’s famous for its fluffy, jiggly texture. Watching the cheesecakes rise in the oven while you wait is almost hypnotic — and tasting them is pure bliss.

 

Tip: Go early to avoid long lines; these cheesecakes sell out quickly!

10. Stroll Ebisubashi-suji Shopping Street 🏮🍡

Connecting Dotonbori and Namba, this street is alive with shops, street food, and entertainment. We enjoyed a leisurely evening stroll here, stopping for snacks and picking up last-minute souvenirs.

 

Tip: Visit after sunset for the neon lights and vibrant energy, making it a perfect photo spot.

11. Take a Day Trip to Kobe 🚆🥩

Just a short train ride from Osaka, Kobe is perfect for a relaxed day trip. We explored the harbor waterfront, enjoyed some of the world-famous Kobe beef, and wandered charming European-style streets.

 

It was a refreshing contrast to Osaka’s bustling streets, giving us a taste of Japan’s coastal city charm.

 

Tip: Check train schedules ahead to maximize your day; a half-day trip is possible, but a full day is ideal.

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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