I’ve been to Osaka a fair few times – it’s one of the coolest spots in Japan. Last time I went, I was only in Osaka for 24 hours. A buzzing city, there’s no shortage of things to do but the architecture, nightlife and amazing food are what it’s best known for.

In fact, it’s even nicknamed ‘the nation’s kitchen’ – the variety of food served here is amaaaazing.

This article will help you plan your 24 hours in Osaka down to a tee. If you just have a day for the city, you can still fit a lot in – with my help!

As with any Japanese city, there’s plenty of pretty shrines to see as well as a good old dose of history to be had at national landmarks. I knew I was lucky enough to be going back very soon but I’d recommend you put a few days aside to see the city. If you’re struggling for time though, this is how I’d spend 24 hours in Osaka.

24 Hours in Osaka

– You can’t miss the Dotonbori on your 24 hours in Osaka!

Your morning in Osaka

To pack the most in, I’d get an early start and begin by going up the Abeno Harukas, Japan’s tallest building. It opens at 6.30am and if you try and time a visit for sunrise you’ll get some great city views. Entrance costs 1500 yen (£10.50) to go up to the Harukas 300 observation deck on floors 58 to 60.

Back inside, visit the Abeno Harukas Art Museum on the 16th floor before heading to nearby Muu Muu Diner for a quick pancake breakfast. From here, you can walk it off in Tennoji Park and its botanical Keitakuen Garden. This used to belong to a family of wealthy merchants but is now open for the public to enjoy for 150 yen (£1).

Watch this video to learn more about going up the Harukas 300 in Osaka.

How to do your day in Osaka for cheaper

If you want to see as much as possible in your 24 hours in Osaka it’s well worth getting a YOKOSO Osaka ticket. It gives you discounts at all the top tourist attractions in the city, for one great price.

“Get discounts at 32 tourist spots all over Osaka including the Tsutenkaku Tower, Osaka Water Bus, the Umeda Sky Building and more. Ticket includes a day’s use of the Osaka Municipal Subway, New Tram and bus with unlimited rides”.
Check out the latest prices for the YOKOSO Osaka ticket on Klook.

Lunch in Osaka

If you exit east of the park, you’ll then come out in the Shinsekai neighbourhood. Although often viewed as the seedy part of town, it has an interesting design – half of the district is based on Paris and the other half on Coney Island. With all of its bright lights, cheap eats and the Tsutenkaku Tower