Osaka is a fantastic place to visit. It is a major commercial center known for its modern architecture and its nightlife. Here visitors will find delicious street food, historical castles and shrines, and beautiful cherry blossom trees in the spring. Knowing where to stay is always a challenge in such a large city, though. So if you are looking for more info about the areas of Osaka, take a look at this article to see see the best places where to stay in Osaka.
1. Namba / Minami
If your passions are food and nightlife then Namba / Minami is the area for you. It is in the southern section of Osaka, a never-ending area of bright light, dining areas, and little alleys, and is surely one of the best places to visit in Osaka. There is always something happening in Namba. It is easy to find places to eat, places to shop, places that are well known, and places that you have never heard of. It is the perfect area just to stroll at night, as that is when it truly comes to life. One of the most popular hangout spots in Namba is Dotonbori, a street known for its colorful signs and eccentric airs. It is a great spot for people watching!
Dōtonbori
Address: Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0071, Japan
Website: Dōtonbori
Click here for some Airbnb options in Namba / Minami neighborhood
2. Kita / Umeda
Kita / Umeda is the northern district of Osaka, the busiest transportation hub in the city. It has a bustling business district, loads of eating joints, and plenty of shopping, including an underground network of malls. This area is truly the hub of Osaka in the day time as people are ever coming and going for work, for attractions, or for a great meal. Many of Osaka’s hotels are located within the Kita area.
Umeda Sky Building
Address: Japan, 〒531-6023 大阪府大阪市北区大淀中1−1
Website: Umeda Sky Building
Click here for some Airbnb options in Kita / Umeda neighborhood
3. Osaka Castle area
One of the best neighborhoods to live in Osaka is the area surrounding Osaka Castle. It is among the, and is truly a beautiful spot to stay in as it is less crowded and absolutely beautiful during the cherry blossom season (in the spring). The surrounding waterways (which used to be moats around the castle) are lovely, adding an air of going back a few centuries in history. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a well-known warlord, brought the city under his control in the 16th century and built Osaka Castle. It has since been burned down and reconstructed in the 17th century and again in the 20th century. Inside the castle, there are displays of weapons, armors, and folklife. The 8th floor has a viewing area for visitors. The area itself is rich with interesting history. There is even a water bus service originating in this Osaka Castle area, that can take people for a cruise down the river.
Osaka Castle
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0002, Japan
Website: Osaka Castle
4. Honmachi (Central Osaka)
If you’re planning a long stay and don’t know where to live in Osaka, the Honmachi area is quite central and is conveniently located between Kita and Namba, on the Midosuji subway line. It is an office district, so though there is not a lot happening, there are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area. If you enjoy walking, it is possible to even walk to Osaka Castle from Honmchi. The area itself is also packed with reasonably priced hotels.
Utsubo Park
Address: 2 Chome Utsubohonmachi, Nishi Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 550-0004, Japan
Website: Utsubo Park
5. Konahona (Universal Studios)
Konahona is home to Universal Studios Japan and has endless waterfront views. It is within easy commuting distance of downtown, but also retains a quiet air that allows visitors to relax and rest. Set along the mouth of the Yodo river, there are plenty of green spaces for people to enjoy. As far as eating options, local cuisine is plentiful in the area.
Universal Studios Japan
Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 554-0031, Japan
Website: Universal Studios Japan
Click here for some Airbnb options around Universal Studios Japan
6. Tennoji Area
Tennoji Area is up and coming in Osaka. It is just a bit south of the lively Namba and home to a major railway station (Tennoji station). The area has been recently renovated with several new shopping malls and some of the best places to eat in Osaka. Kintetsu Department Store has 14 floors (making it one of the largest in Japan) within the Abeno Harukas which is the tallest building in Japan as of 2014. The 16th floor of the building holds the Abeno Harukas Art Museum, which has rotating exhibits throughout the year. The tops 3 floors are reserved as observation areas. The area is also home to Shitennoji Temple, Tennoji Park, and Tennoji Zoo.
Shitennoji Temple
Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 543-0051, Japan
Website: Shitennoji Temple
7. Shin-Osaka Area
The Shin-Osaka Area has almost nothing to do, but it is home to the bullet train where most travelers from other areas in Japan will enter Osaka. It is easy to get to other parts of the city from here as well since the Midosuji subway line is at the station. Kita and Namba are both just minutes away on the Midosuji subway line. It is easy to reach Kyoto from the Shin-Osaka Area, too (only about 100 minutes), making it a great spot to stay if you’re looking to see both Osaka and Kyoto without moving hotels. The area has plenty of hotels, designed for people traveling through Japan, along with loads of good restaurants boasting a variety of cuisines.
Shin-Ōsaka Station
Address: Osaka Prefecture, Japan
Website: Shin-Ōsaka Station
Neighborhood nights in Osaka
There are 24 Osaka districts that make up this huge city that has so much to offer. Hopefully this article will help you determine the best area for you to stay based on what you are looking for and what you are interested in. AND if two neighborhoods appeal to you, why not try both! Enjoy your visit to Osaka!
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