Looking to explore local spots in Osaka? Want to discover some hidden gems?

If you’ve already visited the major tourist attractions or want to uncover more of Osaka’s charm, here are some suggestions for a half-day short trip from central Osaka.
From hands-on experiences in traditional crafts to lesser-known hidden spots, use this guide as inspiration for your Osaka adventure!

*Please go to the homepage of each venue for detailed information such as admission fee.

Expo ’70 Commemorative Park was developed on the former site of the Japan World Exposition (Osaka Expo) held in 1970. Its iconic symbol, ‘Tower of the Sun,’ is a work by renowned Japanese artist Taro Okamoto, standing about 70 meters tall.

Visitors can explore the inside of Tower of the Sun, which features a restored ‘Tree of Life,’ a 41-meter structure representing the evolution of life from primitive organisms to humanity, along with the ‘Sun of the Underworld’ exhibit. The grand and energy-filled displays are sure to amaze you. The tour takes about 30 minutes.

*Please note that visits to the Tower of the Sun require advance reservations.
*For tours, a separate entry fee for the Natural and Cultural Gardens is required (same-day tickets may be available if there are open slots).

After visiting the Tower of the Sun, it is recommended to go around Natural and Cultural Gardens and Japanese Garden and enjoy the seasonal flowers.

▼Check this article for details on best period to visit and how long for a tour▼
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In addition, next to Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is Japan’s largest shopping complex EXPOCITY, where you can find the biggest Ferris wheel “OSAKA WHEEL” and an aquarium for small creatures “NIFREL”. Also, more than 300 shops gather at the shopping mall “La La Port EXPOCITY”.

It’s a place where visitors can enjoy a wide selection of fashion, accessories, gourmet food, and souvenirs.

Step into the world of a Japanese folktale! The Open-Air Museum of Old Japanese Farm　Houses is an outdoor museum featuring relocated and restored traditional houses from various regions of Japan.
One of the homes, relocated from Shirakawa Village in Gifu Prefecture, showcases the “gassho-zukuri” style, known for its steep, triangular thatched roof. It is worth noticing that no nails at all were used in the construction.

In addition, the museum features 12 other buildings, including a traditional house from southern Iwate Prefecture where the main house and stable are combined, and a raised-floor grain storage structure from Amami Oshima. Each building reflects the unique adaptations made for insulation, ventilation, and other needs based on the climate and culture of its region. It would be a great opportunity to experience traditional Japanese living first-hand.

Katsuo-ji, the temple of good fortune, is located in Minoh. The expansive grounds are dotted with red Daruma dolls, making it a great spot for taking photos.

Besides, the temple offers audio guides for international visitors, a stamp rally, and original souvenirs, providing plenty of ways to enjoy your visit! You can explore the temple in about an hour

▼Check this article for details on best period to visit▼
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After visiting Katsuo-ji, take the Hankyu Bus back to the nearest station, Minoh-Kayano Station (get on from the backdoor and get off from the front).
When you get off the bus, there are popular eateries like “Ippudo Ramen” and “Kushikatsu Tanaka,” famous for Osaka’s signature skewered cutlets, making it a convenient spot for lunch or a quick snack.

Minoh Waterfall is a nature-rich spot easily accessible from central Osaka! With a drop of about 33 meters, Minoh Falls has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls and is a must-see tourist attraction in Osaka.

It’s about a 40-minute walk from Minoh Station to Minoh Waterfall, and in just two hours’ round trip you can fully enjoy the surrounding nature. Along the path, you’ll find local street food like the famous “Momiji Tempura” (fried maple leaves) and charming forest cafes with great views. Taking a leisurely stroll and soaking in the scenery is one of the best parts ,so be sure to take your time to relax and enjoy! By the way, the admission is free.

Also, you may walk to Minoh Waterfall from Katsuo-ji Temple as mentioned above.

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If you have more time to spend, a hot spring themed facility called “Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Minoh Onsen Spa Garden” is nearby.

You can enjoy various entertainment options, like trying out festival food stalls while wearing a yukata or watching traditional theater performances. It’s easy to stop by on your way from Minoh Station to Minoh Falls, making it a convenient detour.

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The Cupnoodles Museum, dedicated to the globally beloved Nissin Foods brand, offers free admission and provides insights into its history and innovations.
A must-try experience is the ‘My Cup Noodles Factory,’ where you can create your own custom cup noodles! Design your cup, choose your favorite ingredients and soup base, and make a unique creation (takes about 45 minutes, fee required).

To participate in the experience, you’ll need a numbered ticket, which is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of your visit. The museum’s official website provides updates on crowd conditions   , so be sure to check it beforehand.
Since it’s also close to Minoh Waterfall, you could easily spend half a day in Ikeda in the morning and visit Minoh in the afternoon for a perfect day trip.

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CUPNOODLES MUSEUM OSAKA IKEDA

Additionally, “Shubodai” at Mount Satsuki is a great scenic spot in Ikeda! It’s perfect for　photos with the townscape framed through the torii gate in the background.

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Temples rooted in non-touristy areas offer a glimpse into the daily lives of locals, providing a chance to experience authentic Japanese culture. Sojiji Temple, which lends its name to the nearby Hankyu Kyoto Line station, is one of the stops on the “Saikoku Kannon Pilgrimage,” a recognized Japanese heritage site. The temple’s founder, Fujiwara no Yamakage, is renowned for offering meals he prepared for a thousand days and is revered as the founder of the culinary tradition “Hocho-do” (the Way of the Knife). In line with this, the temple has a mound for retired knives and kitchen amulets, making it a place loved by chefs.

In 2020, a café opened at Sojiji Temple. Its unique structure is inspired by the Himalayan Mountains, symbolizing the transmission of Buddhism from the Himalayas to Japan. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing time, blending in with the local community and temple parishioners.

What’s more, if you take the Hankyu Kyoto Line for about just 20 minutes, there is Minase Shrine, which is a recommended spot to enjoy seasonal beauty with cherry blossoms in spring, wind chimes in summer, and autumn leaves in fall.

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Mount Ikoma, standing at an elevation of 642 meters on the border between Osaka and Nara, is home to Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park. The park features over 20 rides and has free admission. With more than 90 years of history, this park offers fun for both children and adults in a safe environment. A must-try is the Cycle Monorail, where you can cycle through the air while enjoying the breathtaking view. It is an exciting experience for visitors of all ages (rides require a fee).

The cable car connecting Toriimae Station and Ikomasanjo Station is also a popular attraction. On your way up, you can stop and visit Hozanji Temple, located halfway up the mountain, which is well worth a visit.

Hoshi no Buranko is one of the largest wooden suspension bridges in Japan. Located in the lush Hoshida Enchi of Katano City, it has become increasingly popular among international visitors in recent years. The bridge spans 280 meters in length, with a maximum height of 50 meters above the ground, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside!

Especially in autumn, the gradient of vibrant autumn foliage creates a stunning landscape. The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late November to early December. There’s also an observation deck in the park, so it is recommended to spend at least two hours for a leisurely walk.

From the nearest bus stop, it’s about a 40-minute walk through Hoshida Enchi to reach Hoshi no Buranko. Since the trails inside the park are unpaved, it is more like a light hike, so wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended.

When it comes to Osaka’s famous landmarks, places like Osaka Castle, Tsutenkaku Tower, Umeda Sky Building, and the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel are more well-known. But, have you discovered that there are still many more charming spots waiting to be explored?
Be sure to visit them and uncover a new side of Osaka!