OSAKA
From gourmet foods to shopping, Osaka has everything!
Visit to enjoy excellent shopping near the major train stations and savor local gourmet specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
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Harukas 300 Observatory Complete Guide: Access, Tickets, and View from the Observatory
Abeno Harukas is a landmark supertall complex in Osaka. Located at the very top of the building, Harukas 300 Observatory is one of the city’s best viewpoints and a favorite among visitors from Japan and around the world. Here’s a guide to Harukas 300, along with key tips to know before your visit. -INDEX- What is Harukas 300 Observatory? How to Get to Harukas 300 Observatory How to Buy Tickets for Harukas 300 Observatory The View from Harukas 300 Observatory Nearby Sightseeing Spots to Visit Together with Harukas 300 Observatory Winter Illuminations at Harukas 300 Observatory Harukas 300 Observatory spans three floors—from the 58th to the top 60th floor—of Abeno Harukas, the supertall complex located in Osaka’s Abeno district. As the name suggests, the 60th floor rises to an impressive height of 300 meters above ground, offering breathtaking views not only of Osaka city but also far into the distance. Below is an overview of each floor. On the 60th floor, you’ll find the Sky Corridor, a fully glass-enclosed observation walkway. Some sections feature glass flooring, allowing you to look straight down and experience an exhilarating sense of floating and thrill. Photo spots with the official character “Abeno Bear” are also popular with visitors. The 59th floor is home to SHOP HARUKAS 300, where you can purchase exclusive Abeno Bear plush toys, observatory-original sweets, stationery, and other souvenirs available only here. After your visit, you’ll take the elevator down from the exit on the 59th floor. The Sky Garden on the 58th floor is an open-air plaza with a partially open ceiling, creating a refreshing outdoor atmosphere high above the city. On the same floor, you’ll find SKY GARDEN 300, which offers light meals and drinks. You can enjoy food and beverages both indoors and outdoors while taking in the views. Tennoji Station—one of the nearest stations to Harukas 300 Observatory—is one of Osaka’s major transportation hubs, served by multiple JR lines and Osaka Metro lines. It offers direct access from popular areas such as Umeda and Namba with no transfers required. Access to Harukas 300 from Umeda / Osaka Station By Osaka Metro Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and ride directly from Umeda Station to Tennoji Station in about 20 minutes. From Tennoji Station, walk to Harukas 300 Observatory. The total travel time is approximately 30 minutes. By JR Take the JR Osaka Loop Line from Osaka Station to Tennoji Station, which takes about 20 minutes. After getting off at Tennoji Station, walk to Harukas 300 Observatory. The total journey takes around 30 minutes. Access to Harukas 300 from Namba Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line from Namba Station to Tennoji Station. The ride takes about 10 minutes with no transfers. From Tennoji Station, walk to Harukas 300 Observatory, arriving in approximately 22 minutes total. Tickets for Harukas 300 Observatory are sold at the ticket counter on the 16th floor of Abeno Harukas. Ticket Prices ・Adults: 2,000 yen ・Junior & Senior High School Students: 1,200 yen ・Elementary School Students: 700 yen ・Preschool Children: 500 yen ・Children under 4: Free Same-day tickets are available from 10 minutes before opening until 30 minutes before closing. Prices may change, so please be sure to check the latest information on the official website. As the observatory can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended. Buying tickets on your smartphone ahead of time allows for smooth entry even during busy periods, helping you make the most of your travel time. The views from Harukas 300 Observatory change dramatically depending on the time of day, so choose your visit to match your travel schedule. During the daytime, the open panoramic view stretches far beyond Osaka city. On clear days, you can see Mount Rokko in Kobe, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, and the Ikoma mountain range. It’s also fun to spot famous Osaka landmarks such as Osaka Castle and Tsutenkaku from above. In the early evening, Harukas 300 takes on a more dramatic atmosphere as day transitions into night. The sky gradually turns shades of orange and purple, while city lights begin to glow below—making this an especially beautiful time for photography. At night, a dazzling sea of lights spreads out beneath you, creating a romantic cityscape that feels like scattered jewels. With last admission at 9:30 p.m., Harukas 300 is easy to visit even after sightseeing or dinner. After visiting Harukas 300 Observatory, be sure to explore the many nearby attractions and fully enjoy the Tennoji and Abeno area. Ten-Shiba, Tennoji Park Entrance Area Ten-Shiba is a grassy open space located at the entrance of Tennoji Park. With cafés and restaurants, a flower shop, and a paid play area for children, it’s a popular urban oasis in the heart of the city. It’s an ideal spot to relax and take a break before or after visiting Harukas 300 Observatory. Tsutenkaku Tower Tsutenkaku Tower is a landmark of Shinsekai, a downtown area known for its nostalgic, retro atmosphere. Standing 108 meters tall, the views from the observation decks on the 4th and 5th floors offer a very different perspective from that of Harukas 300 Observatory. ▼Check this article▼ Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower Complete Guide | Access, Food, and Experiences Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (Osaka Bay Area) Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of Osaka’s must-visit attractions, famous for its massive acrylic tanks. Why not take a short trip from Tennoji to see the impressive whale sharks up close? ▼Check this article▼ Complete Guide to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan! From Amazing Creatures to Ticket Info and Visiting Tips Every winter, Harukas 300 Observatory hosts a seasonal event called “Abeno Harukas Sky Illumination.” On the open-air garden of the 58th floor, glowing light gates and illuminations are installed, while the windows on the 60th floor are transformed into giant screens for projection mapping that blends stunning night views with immersive visuals. This winter’s theme is “Immersive Projection Mapping: What If Osaka Drifted into Outer Space?” As soon as you step into Harukas 300, a vast universe filled with distant stars unfolds before your eyes. Immerse yourself in a dreamlike, otherworldly experience through this imaginative “what if” story. Event Period December 24, 2025 (Wed) – February 11, 2026 (Wed, public holiday) 18:00–22:00 (Last admission: 21:30) February 12, 2026 (Thu) – April 23, 2026 (Thu) 18:30–22:00 (Last admission: 21:30) ▶For more details plz click here Rising 300 meters above the ground, Harukas 300 Observatory offers sweeping views not only of Osaka city but also, on clear days, as far as Awaji Island and Kyoto Tower. If you’re traveling around Kansai, this spectacular viewpoint is well worth a visit.
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Let’s go to shrines and temples in Kansai for New Year’s “Hatsumode”!
“Hatsumode” refers to the first shrine or temple visit of the year, the purpose is to present thanks for the last year and pray for good fortune for the year ahead. Each shrine or temple offers its own blessings. This article introduces popular New Year’s shrine visit spots in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara, categorized by their blessings. It also includes information about convenient train tickets for your visit. Come and experience this unique Japanese tradition! -INDEX- Hankyu Hanshin New Year Ticket 【OSAKA/Luck at winning】Katsuo-ji temple 【KYOTO/Eradication of diseases 】Yasaka Shrine 【KYOTO/Marriage】Shimogamo Shrine 【KYOTO/God of Beauty】Kawai shrine 【KOBE/Good match】Ikuta Shrine 【Nishinomiya/Prosperity in business】Nishinomiya Shrine 【Nishinomiya/Warding off evil】Mondo Yakujin Toukouji 【Takarazuka/Prayer for a safe birth】Nakayamadera Temple 【NARA/Be cured of a disease】Yakushiji Temple “Hankyu Hanshin New Year Ticket” offers unlimited one-day rides, which is perfect for your New Year’s shrine visits. This is a special New Year’s Ticket offering unlimited rides for one day on all lines of Hankyu Railway, Hanshin Railway, and Kobe Kosoku Railway (includes a commemorative gift voucher). Usage Conditions: ・Only 1,200 yen for unlimited one-day travel on all Hankyu and Hanshin lines! ・Receive a commemorative gift at participating shrines and temples by exchanging your digital voucher. ・valid Jan 1–11 Please see this page (Slutto QRtto FAQs) for how to use it. Sales Period: December 20, 2025(Sat.)~ January 11, 2026(Sun.) Valid Period: January 1, 2026 (Thursday, holiday) ~ January 11, 2026(Sun.) Price: [Basic version] 1,200 yen (adults only) [Nose edition] 1,600 yen (adults only) Sales Locations: You can purchase it on the Surutto QRtto web page. Daruma is popular as a good luck charm because it gets up after falling. Famous as a temple of luck, Katsuoji Temple has Daruma statues placed all over the temple grounds. Use the Daruma fortune to tell your fortune in various areas such as entrance exams, love, and sports. The shrine has been in existence since before 794, and is known as “Gion-san”. The headquarters of Yasaka Shrine and other shrines dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto throughout Japan. In addition to the main shrine, which is designated as a national treasure, there are many other deities enshrined within the precincts, including the Pestilence Shrine, which is dedicated to dispelling plague and evil. Shimogamo Shrine is known as a power spot for love knot. Here, you can draw a kimono-shaped fortune, called “Enmimusubi-mikuji. You will receive instructions on how to fall in love based on a waka poem from the Tale of Genji. The “Himemamori,” with its gorgeous chirimen fabric, is also gorgeous. If you want to be beautiful, go to Kawai Shrine! This is a small shrine inside Shimogamo Shrine, where the god who protects women is enshrined. Kawai Shrine offers a special ema (votive picture tablet) to pray for beauty. Use the cosmetics you normally use to apply beautiful makeup to your ema and make a wish. You will definitely become more beautiful, not only on the outside but also on the inside. Ikuta Shrine is located in the middle of the city of Kobe. The red and divine main shrine is fantastic, and the solemn atmosphere will cleanse your body and soul. Behind the main shrine is the Ikuta Forest, where you can do “water divination for marriage”. Also, the ema (votive tablet) at Ikuta Shrine is in the shape of a very cute heart. Say a prayer for a good match! Nishinomiya Shrine is the headquarters of all the Ebisu Shrines in Japan, which worship the god of good fortune, Ebisu-sama, and is known locally as “Ebessan of Nishinomiya. It is famous as the god of prosperity in business. The “Tai-mikuji”, which is given only during the New Year period, is very popular. In a long life, there are milestones at key points, and breaks due to various physical and social changes. In order to prepare for this milestone, the old people came up with the tradition of “bad luck years”. Yakujin Myoo is said to ward off all kinds of evil. Mondo Yakujin Tokoji Temple is one of the three Yakujin Myoo in Japan. Let’s pray for good luck to ward off bad luck so that we can have a peaceful new year. Nakayamadera Temple, the first Kannon sacred site in Japan, was founded by Prince Shotoku. Many pregnant women from all over Japan visit this temple, which is known as the “Temple of Safe Childbirth”. Nakayama Temple has an escalator so that pregnant women do not have to climb up the stone steps. This is a kind gesture that only a temple dedicated to praying for safe childbirth can make. Don’t miss the five-story pagoda, which was rebuilt in 2017 for the first time in about 400 years. The deep blue color is very impressive. Yakushiji Temple, a World Heritage Site, was built in 680 by Emperor Tenmu to pray for the healing of his empress’ illness. The main deity of the temple, Yakushiji Nyorai, is the Buddha of medicine. He removes people’s illnesses and misfortunes and gives them health and happiness. It is said to have the blessing of removing not only physical illnesses but also people’s grumbling hearts. Let’s visit a temple in ancient Nara and get power from it. I hope that the new year will be a good one for you.
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Best 7 Onsens (Hot Springs) Near Osaka
Onsen, or hot spring, is definitely one thing that you need to experience in Japan! If you have limited time but are eager to enjoy the unique atmosphere of a hot spring town, spend a night at an onsen inn, or combine sightseeing with a quick visit to a hot spring, we have selected some of the best hot springs and onsen towns near Osaka. Check the following recommendations as inspiration for planning your trip! Index Onsen etiquette: Everything you need to know about hot spring One of the best Japanese onsen towns near Osaka & Kyoto: Arima Onsen Coastal delights and hot spring town near Osaka: Kinosaki Onsen Hidden gem for hot spring enthusiasts: Takedao Onsen Koyokan Bettei Azalee Natural hot springs with private bath options in center Osaka: Solaniwa Onsen Can also visit Minoh Waterfall: Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Minoh Onsen Spa Garden Enjoy two types of natural hot springs in private rooms: Takenosato Onsen Manyo no Yu Only 50 minutes from Osaka by Hankyu Railway: Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Fu Fu no Yu Before you try Japan’s hot springs, understanding onsen etiquette is essential. In Japan, there is a deep-rooted etiquette for enjoying hot springs, which centers on showing consideration for others sharing the bath. Knowing this etiquette is also part of the cultural experience! Here, we introduce some general guidelines to follow. 1.Please avoid bathing after consuming alcohol. 2.Before entering the bath, make sure to rinse off any dirt by using the shower and soap. 3.Keep your hair and towel out of the bath water. It is considered impolite to enter the bath in a swimsuit or underwear. 4.Diving or swimming in the bath is not allowed. 5.When using the shower or wringing out towels, take care not to splash water on others. 6.Before leaving the bath area, wipe off excess water from your body with a wrung-out towel. 7.The use of smartphones and taking photos is prohibited in both the bath and dressing room areas. Besides, having tattoos may often restrict access to public baths. It’s recommended to check the rules on the official website of any hot spring facility you plan to visit. Recently, some facilities allow guests with tattoos if they are covered with stickers. Additionally, selecting an accommodation with a private bath attached to the room or opting for a reservable private bath are great options for tattooed guests to enjoy the onsen or hot spring. Located in Hyogo, Arima Onsen is a recommended hot spring town for travelers coming from Osaka or Kyoto. It’s not only one of Japan’s three best historical hot springs, but also stands out for its easy accessibility. Dating back to around the year 600, Arima Onsen offers a unique experience with two distinct types of hot springs: Kinsen, a reddish-brown spring rich in iron, and Ginsen, a clear, radon-infused spring. These springs differ remarkably in appearance, scent, and feel. Be sure to try both at the public baths Kin-no-Yu and Gin-no-Yu to fully appreciate their unique qualities! * “Kin-no-Yu” and “Gin-no-Yu” are both tattoo-friendly. The hot spring town is packed with souvenir shops and local eateries, making it a great place for leisurely strolling. While exploring, you might even see the steam rising from the springs! For convenient access, express buses run directly to Arima Onsen from Osaka Umeda and Kyoto, making it easy to travel even with larger luggage. Travel time from Osaka to Arima Onsen is about an hour one way by express bus, making it an easy day trip option. However, with a variety of ryokan and hotels to choose from, staying overnight is also a great choice to fully immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of this onsen town. If you’re looking to visit Arima Onsen affordably, consider the “Taiko-no-Yu” coupon, which includes a rail pass and admission to the “Taiko-no-Yu” onsen facility—a perfect package for getting the most out of your visit! ▼Check here for more details▼ How to Get to Arima Onsen from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe – A Complete Transportation Guide The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town Arima Onsen Taikou-no-yu Package Tickets Kinosaki Onsen, located close to the Sea of Japan in northern Hyogo Prefecture, is one of Kansai’s most popular hot spring towns besides Arima Onsen. During winter, many visitors flock here to enjoy the famous crabs caught locally around Kinosaki Onsen. The highlights of Kinosaki are savoring fresh seafood and hopping between its unique public baths! In addition to crab, the town’s restaurants serve fresh sashimi and seafood rice bowls. The “soto-yu meguri,” or bath-hopping, invites you to visit the town’s seven public baths, each with its own architecture, atmosphere, and water qualities. Enjoy the variety as you explore each one! *All 7 public baths of Kinosaki Onsen are tattoo-friendly. Winter is the ideal season to visit Kinosaki Onsen, offering a chance to witness the enchanting snowy landscape that adds to the charm of this traditional hot spring town. An overnight stay is highly recommended to fully enjoy Kinosaki’s atmosphere. Stroll through the town in yukata and geta provided by the inn, experiencing a unique side of Japanese culture. For an additional activity, try your hand at the traditional craft of making mugi-wara zaiku, or straw craft, for an authentic local experience. About an hour by train from Osaka Umeda, Takedao Onsen Koyokan Bettei Azalee sits quietly in the Takarazuka Valley. This serene inn is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed stay surrounded by nature rather than in a bustling hot spring town. Each guest room at Takedao Onsen Koyokan Bettei Azalee is a private cottage with its own 100% natural hot spring bath. Here, you can enjoy uninterrupted relaxation while taking in the natural scenery. As a private space, it’s also tattoo-friendly. In the evening and morning, Japanese cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients are prepared, including options with premium Japanese Black Wagyu beef for sukiyaki or shabu-shabu. There’s also a spacious open-air communal bath (accessible to guests with tattoos), where you can enjoy soaking in a large, scenic hot spring. For those on a tighter schedule, Takedao Onsen Koyokan Bettei Azalee offers day-use options, including guest rooms with private, natural hot spring baths. If you don’t have time to venture out of town, Solaniwa Onsen in Osaka offers a convenient and relaxing hot spring experience within the city. Located 10-minute from Osaka Umeda by JR and right outside Bentencho Station, this onsen theme park features a grand bath area with nine different types of baths. Plus, the rooftop boasts an expansive 3,300 square meters Japanese garden—perfect for strolls and photo ops! Another great reason to visit Solaniwa Onsen is the private baths. There are ten private rooms equipped with open-air baths, a tsuboniwa (small traditional garden), and a relaxation space. For a more authentic onsen experience, there are special tatami-mat rooms, which offer the ambiance of a traditional Japanese inn right within the city. ▼Check this article▼ 4 private onsen & baths to enjoy in a private room in Osaka! Hot spring resorts where you can stay overnight or enjoy a day trip *Both the hot spring and inn are closed for an extended period of time for maintenance starting March 31, 2025. Located in northern Osaka, Minoh Waterfall is a scenic spot surrounded by a lush forest park. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience another side of Osaka’s natural beauty. Near Minoh Waterfall, you’ll find the hot spring theme park “Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Minoh Onsen Spa Garden.” Known as “beauty water” for its smooth, viscous texture, the high-quality bicarbonate spring here offers a soothing experience. The facility is packed with entertainment activities, providing visitors with chances to experience traditional Japanese culture! The large bath area features a Japanese aesthetic with a wall mural of Mt. Fuji, tatami flooring, and a stone bridge, creating a unique and relaxing ambiance. There’s also an outdoor bath for enjoying the open air. In addition, there are free performances, including traditional theater and music shows, along with classic Japanese pastimes like table tennis (a favorite onsen activity) and stalls offering fun games like shooting galleries. Wearing a yukata, you can enjoy a festive atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Japanese fair. By the way, how about combining a visit to Minoh since it is right nearby? ▼Check this article▼ Minoh, one of the famous tourist spots in Osaka Minoh, Osaka-1 Day Trip|Enjoy The Most Beautiful Nature in Osaka! Kyoto Takenosato Onsen Manyo no Yu is a 24-hour natural hot spring, a rarity in Kyoto City, offering two types of mineral-rich spring water, “simple spring” and “sodium bicarbonate spring.” Known as “beautifying waters,” both types will leave your skin feeling silky smooth! Inside the facility, you’ll find nine types of baths, including open-air baths, jacuzzis, high-concentration carbonated baths, reclining baths, and saunas. There are also private rooms with open-air baths available for day-use, offering a serene and private experience. At Takenosato Onsen Manyo no Yu, you can enjoy the onsen on its own, but it’s even better to combine it with sightseeing in the Kyoto Nishiyama area! The Kyoto Nishiyama area is actually a hidden gem! Here, you’ll find traditional temples, a grand bamboo grove (even larger than the one in Arashiyama!), and the world-famous Suntory Yamazaki Distillery (tours require advance reservation). For more detailed highlights of Kyoto Nishiyama, check out the article linked below! ▼Highlights on Kyoto Nishiyama▼ Kyoto Nishiyama|An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots, also has its own hot springs! “Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Fu Fu no Yu” is a day-use hot spring facility located about an 8-minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station. Positioned across from the scenic Nakanoshima Park in the Arashiyama district, it offers a convenient stop during your sightseeing, with views of the famous Arashiyama and Togetsukyo Bridge nearby. At the indoor baths of Fufu-no-Yu, you can enjoy the natural “Arashiyama Onsen.” The spring water at Arashiyama Onsen is a mildly alkaline simple spring, known for its therapeutic benefits for nerve and muscle pain, as well as its skin-beautifying properties perfect for soothing tired feet after sightseeing. The onsen also features a rustic open-air bath, where you can relax deeply while soaking up the natural ambiance. Body soap and shampoo are provided, and rental towels are available, so you can drop in anytime during your travels without needing to bring anything along. ▼Check this article▼ Arashiyama, Kyoto-1 Day Trip|From Popular Spots to Best Kept Secret Spots! Kyoto Arashiyama Sightseeing Half-day Model Course! Capture the bamboo forest, temples, nature, and major spots! 8 Sweets in Arashiyama, Kyoto, from Easy Eats to Stylish Cafes We’ve introduced hot springs that are easily accessible from central Osaka and perfect to pair with sightseeing. Soak in large baths filled with mineral-rich waters and let the relaxation wash over you. Experience the long-cherished culture of onsen in Japan—it’s a must-try during your visit!
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5 Private Onsen & Baths to enjoy in Osaka! Hot spring resorts to stay overnight or enjoy on a day trip
If you are going on a trip to Japan, you want to enjoy the sentiment of a onsen or onsen stay, but you also want to enjoy private bath without worrying about being seen. For those who are interested, we have picked up private onsen and elegant private room baths in Osaka, the center of tourism in the Kansai region. Please refer to them for your trip. -INDEX- ・Kansai’s largest urban spa, “Umekita Onsen Ren Wellbeing Park” ・Private onsen with free-flowing hot spring! “Solaniwa ONSEN OSAKA BAY TOWER”, an open-air bath with a view of spot garden ・The largest scale in Kansai! “Natural Onsen Nobeha-no-yu Tsuruhashi”, a one-day private onsen to enjoy with family ・“Hotel Hanshin Osaka”, a city hotel with onsen baths in guest rooms ・Private baths are also available! “Ooedo-Onsen-Monogatari Minoh Spa Garden”, an all-day spa theme park Umekita Onsen Ren Wellbeing Park is one of the largest urban spas in Osaka, Kansai region, offering health promotion services to visitors based on the five themes of hot springs, diet, exercise, spirit, and beauty. The most attractive feature of “Umekita Onsen Ren Wellbeing Park” is the outdoor infinity pool. The pool offers a panoramic view of the greenery of Grand Green Osaka and the cityscape. The “Basic Plan” includes access to the public baths, sauna, gym, studio, heated indoor swimming pool, rest and dining area, and a welcome drink. Towels, indoor clothes, and a variety of amenities are also included, making it possible for visitors from far away to enjoy a lightweight experience. Private rooms are also available for those who wish to spend a relaxing time with family and friends. This luxurious space includes not only a bath, but also a sauna, sofa bed, and even a TV. ♨Private bath(Onsen)♨ additional fees required ♨Large bath♨ Tattoos are allowed as long as they are completely covered up with stickers sold at the reception desk. “Solaniwa ONSEN OSAKA BAY TOWER” is a long-stay onsen theme park conveniently located about 10 minutes by train from the Umeda area of Osaka. The large bath with nine different types of baths is attractive, but what is luxurious is the 10 private rooms with completely private open-air baths, spot gardens, and rest rooms. The hot water in the private open-air baths is called “hot water for beautiful skin”, a mildly alkaline source that wells up from 1,000 meters underground. It is precious to be able to take a break in a private space after soaking in the hot spring. You will feel relaxed in body and soul. Special Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats provide an even more luxurious experience like that of a onsen hotel. Enjoy the luxury of lying down on the tatami after taking a bath. The rooftop is also equipped with a vast Japanese garden and footbath. There is also a photo spot with an excellent view! Wear a fashionable yukata and take a stroll. In addition, there is a restaurant, a game and fairground corner, a relaxation corner, fish therapy, and other fun contents! You can play all day long even on a rainy day. ♨Private bath(Onsen)♨ Day use only. Additional fee required. ♨Large bath♨ Tattoos are allowed as long as they are completely covered up with stickers sold at the reception desk. Located in Tsuruhashi, Osaka, “Natural Onsen Nobeha-no-yu Tsuruhashi” is a one-day onsen resort facility that requires an open-air bath with free-flowing hot spring and a sauna with 12 kinds of precious medicinal ores. The fourth floor of the building is the floor of “Meimeiyudokoro Hanarikyu”, where you can enjoy private onsen baths, and there are 11 private open-air baths available. The baths are the largest family baths in the Kansai region and are popular even among foreign visitors. The private open-air bath with free-flowing hot spring has a small garden with plants and trees, and the rooms are furnished with antique furniture, giving it the feel of a onsen resort in a mountain village. Guests can relax and enjoy the high quality hot spring with their family in a cozy private space. ♨Private bath(Onsen)♨ Use by family or one person only, up to 4 persons per room Additional fee required Tattoos are not allowed. ♨Large bath♨ Tattoos are not allowed. “Hotel Hanshin Osaka” is a city hotel located just one stop from Osaka-Umeda, and a short walk from Fukushima Station on the Hanshin Railway. The hotel is popular for its large spa and sauna, where guests can enjoy natural hot spring from 1,000 meters underground. This natural onsen can actually be enjoyed in the bathrooms of guest rooms. Just turn on the faucet in the bathtub and the hot spring water comes out! It is rare for a city hotel to have a hot spring in the guest room, so you can heal your tired body after a day of sightseeing in the hot spring and go back to the city the next day with renewed energy! It is rare for a city hotel to offer onsen in guest rooms, and after a long day of sightseeing, guests can relax in the onsen and return to the city the next day with renewed energy! ♨Spa&Sauna♨ Tattoos are not allowed. *Both the hot spring and inn are closed for an extended period of time for maintenance starting March 31, 2025. “Minoh Spa Garden” is the closest onsen to Minoh Falls, one of Osaka’s most famous tourist attractions. The main attraction is the large public baths with walls painted with red Fuji, tatami mat floors, and stone bridges, as well as the free popular theater and singing shows, ping-pong corner (a staple of fun at hot spring resorts!), manga corner, gourmet food, fair days, and other entertainment like a festival every day! ), manga corner, gourmet food, fair, and other entertainment that makes every day a festival! You can spend a fulfilling day in the museum wearing your favorite yukata (relaxing clothes for bathing), which you can choose from a variety of designs. We also have three private baths for those who wish to bathe in a serene atmosphere. You can enjoy a spa-like atmosphere. Next door is the “Oedo-Onsen-Monogatari Minoh Kanko Hotel”, which boasts an open-air bath with a spectacular view of the sky, and guests can use the Minoh Onsen Spa Garden for free. ♨Private bath♨ Not a hot spring. Additional fee required. ♨Large bath♨ Tattoos are allowed as long as they are completely covered up with stickers sold at the reception desk. ▼Nearby attractions to visit 【Minoh】 Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there What is the highlight of Katsuo-ji in Minoh? A temple of luck to win in Osaka sightseeing 【Ikeda】 CUPNOODLES MUSEUM OSAKA IKEDA Halal, vegan and vegetarian cuisine in Osaka & recommended sightseeing spots to experience Japanese culture! ・Kyuan-ji Temple, famous for its hydrangeas 10 Best Places to see Hydrangea in Kansai 【Suita】 Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! 【Umeda】 Osaka-Umeda-1Day-Course | Sightseeing! Shopping! Gourmet! Enjoy Osaka Umeda to the fullest! Relax in the warm water of your private room. Enjoy your trip to Japan with an exquisite bath time.
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Access from Osaka to Kyoto: Train Time, Fares, and Discount Passes of Different Railways
Osaka, the city of delicious food, and Kyoto, the historic ancient capital, are two must-visit destinations in Kansai. Three different railway companies connect these two cities: Hankyu Railway, JR, and Keihan Railway. Whether you want to travel fast, keep the cost low, or enjoy a comfortable ride, this guide explains all the advantages and disadvantages, along with access tips and recommended discount passes for traveling from Osaka to Kyoto. -INDEX- Comparing train fares and travel times from Osaka to Kyoto Money-saving passes for traveling from Osaka to Kyoto Reserved seating options Special trains between Osaka and Kyoto If you are starting your journey from the Umeda area, you can take either Hankyu Railway from Osaka-Umeda Station or JR from Osaka Station. If you prefer to use the Keihan Line, you can transfer at Yodoyabashi Station, which is just one stop from Umeda Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line. The best train to take will vary depending on where you board and which part of the area you plan to visit. If you want to visit the main downtown district around Shijo–Kawaramachi, the closest station is Hankyu Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station. If you want easy access to Kyoto Tower, JR Kyoto Station is directly in front of it. For sightseeing spots like Gion and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the most convenient choice is Keihan Gion-Shijo Station. Hankyu Railway JR Keihan Railway Main Station in Kyoto Kyoto-kawaramachi Station Kyoto Station Gion-Shijo Station Number of trains 6 trains per hour 4 trains per hour 5 trains per hour One-way fare Adult ¥410 Adult ¥580 Adult ¥490 Travel Time About 43 min by Limited Express / Semi Express About 29 min by Rapid Service About 49 min by Limited Express Operating Hours Limited Express: 8:00–16:00 Semi Express: 6:00–23:00 5:00–24:00 6:00–23:00 Advantages ・Lowest fare ・Direct access to the city center of Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi) – very convenient for sightseeing ・Limited Express and Semi Express trains are reasonably fast ・Optional reserved-seat service “PRiVACE” available for extra comfort ・Fastest travel time ・Very convenient connections to the Shinkansen, Nara, and Shiga areas ・Convenient access to the eastern side of Kyoto (Gion, Kiyomizudera, etc.) ・Optional reserved-seat “Premium Car” available for a more comfortable ride Disadvantages ・Does not go to Kyoto Station, so a transfer is needed if using the Shinkansen ・Higher fare ・Rapid trains can be crowded ・Delays can affect a wide area ・Longer travel time ・Requires transfer from Umeda to Yodoyabashi Station ※Fares are as of November 2025 All three railway companies offer convenient 1-day passes (and 2-day passes for JR) that allow unlimited rides. These passes are especially useful if you plan to visit sightseeing spots a little further from central Kyoto such as Arashiyama or Fushimi Inari Shrine. Hankyu 1-day Pass (Digital Ticket, 2025) JR-West QR 2-day Pass Keihan Railway Osaka–Kyoto 1-day SIGHTSEEING PASS Price Adult 1,300 yen Adult 4,000 yen Adult 1,650 yen Validity 1 day 2 days 1 day Advantages ・Easy access to Arashiyama with a transfer at Katsura Station ・Ticketless with QR code ・Reach Arashiyama with a transfer at Kyoto Station ・Ticketless with QR code ・Convenient for travel between Osaka, Fushimi Inari, and Gion ・Includes Iwashimizu-hachimangu-sando-cable to Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine ・Special discounts at temples and attractions along the Keihan line ・Ticketless with QR code Disadvantages ・Only valid on Hankyu lines ・Credit card only ・Only valid on JR lines ・Must be used on two consecutive days ・Extra fee for Limited Express or “A-Seat” ・Credit card only ・Only valid on Keihan lines ・Ishiyama-Sakamoto and Keishin lines in Otsu are not included ・“Premium Car” requires an additional fee ・Credit card only For travelers who prefer to sit during the ride, both Hankyu and Keihan offer reserved-seat services. Hankyu provides PRiVACE, while Keihan offers the Premium Car. With an additional fee of only 500 yen, you can enjoy wide, comfortable seats and a relaxed journey. There is also space for large luggage, making it convenient for travelers with suitcases. Hankyu Railway – “PRiVACE” Tickets can be reserved in advance through the dedicated online booking site. No membership registration is required, and reservations open 14 days before travel. Up to 4 seats can be booked at one time. Seats are arranged in a spacious 2+1 layout (three seats per row) with generous width and legroom. Each seat comes with its own power outlet and a personal table. Free Wi-Fi is also available, allowing you to charge your phone, work on your laptop, or enjoy the internet during the ride. *If seats are still available, you can also purchase your ticket on the spot after boarding on the day of travel. Keihan Railway – “Premium Car” Ticket reservations open 14 days before the travel date. Seating is arranged in a spacious 2 + 1 layout (three seats per row), with only 40 seats per car — providing ample space between seats for a premium experience. Just like with PRiVACE, every seat is equipped with a power outlet, drink holder, and personal table. Free Wi-Fi is available, and the car is also fitted with security cameras and air purifiers for a safe, comfortable ride. ▼For more info▼ A Guide to Hankyu Railway’s Reserved Seat Service “PRiVACE”| Make Your Journey Comfortable between Osaka and Kyoto! If you want to enjoy more of a sightseeing atmosphere while traveling by train, we highly recommend the “Kyo-Train Garaku,” a special sightseeing train that lets you feel the spirit of Kyoto the moment you step on board.Each carriage has its own seasonal and botanical theme, featuring traditional Japanese design elements such as tatami-style seating and dry landscape garden motifs. The interiors are different in every car, creating a stylish “Japanese-modern” atmosphere that keeps the ride interesting no matter how many times you take it. No seat reservation is required, and you can ride with a regular train fare, making it easy and convenient. The train operates only on weekends and public holidays. ▼For more info▼ Kyo-Train Garaku | Feel Kyoto, From the Moment You Step On Board – Specially Designed Train
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