Overview
Take a trip to Osaka on your Japan Vacation
Osaka is located in central Japan on the main island of Honshu. Osaka is the capital city of Osaka Prefecture, and although the prefecture is Japan’s second smallest in area, Osaka has one of the largest population densities in all of Japan.
Formerly known as Naniwa, Osaka was Japan’s capital from 683-745 AD. Given its ideal location, approximately 40 minutes travel time between Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, Osaka is an important commercial centre and point for land and water transportation, as Osaka Bay is situated to the west of the city. Once referred to as the ‘nation’s kitchen’, Osaka was Japan’s trading centre for rice.
Osaka is surrounded by mountains to the north, south, and east. With canals and rivers running through the city, Osaka features over 800 bridges.
Osaka was a major target during World War II, having bombs continually being dropped on its industrial districts during the last year of the war. Facing enormous devastation, Osaka’s resilience was demonstrated when it quickly rebuilt its infrastructure after the war and regained its status as a major industrial and cultural centre.
With Osaka Castle being the city’s most well-known structure, Osaka also features many museums, galleries, parks, temples and shrines, and various cultural venues to be enjoyed during Oska tours on a Japanese vacation. As well, it boasts having Japan’s longest shotengai (Japanese-style street shopping arcade).
Known for its cuisine, Osaka is considered a food lover’s paradise. Its central location makes Osaka a prime city to visit and experience Japanese culture, history and life.
Osaka was a major target during World War II, having bombs continually being dropped on its industrial districts during the last year of the war. Facing enormous devastation, Osaka’s resilience was demonstrated when it quickly rebuilt its infrastructure after the war and regained its status as a major industrial and cultural centre.
With Osaka Castle being the city’s most well-known structure, Osaka also features many museums, galleries, parks, temples and shrines, and various cultural venues to be enjoyed during Oska tours on a Japanese vacation. As well, it boasts having Japan’s longest shotengai (Japanese-style street shopping arcade).
Known for its cuisine, Osaka is considered a food lover’s paradise. Its central location makes Osaka a prime city to visit and experience Japanese culture, history and life.
At a Glance
Languages
JapaneseCurrency
Japanese Yen (JPY)Trending Trips
Unforgettable Journeys.6 Trips Found
Showper page
9
6 Trips Found
Japan Odyssey: Cherry Blossom Edition
Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingSee Japan in bloom on this small group tour, from Kyoto’s shrines to Tokyo’s neon, with onsen soaks, geisha culture, and spring’s most fleeting wonder.
11 days
From US$8,599/p.p.
Request a Quote
Japan Uncovered: Pop Culture & Cuisine
Osaka, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingPrivate-guided and Small group journey through Japan, blending anime worlds, temple rituals, and late-night izakaya flavours for curious travellers.
10 days
From US$5,532/p.p.
Request a Quote
Ultimate Japan: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto & More
Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingJourney through Japan's enchanting landscapes, from modern Tokyo to historic Kyoto. Slip into a kimono and immerse yourself in a traditional tea ceremony along the way.
15 days
From US$8,609/p.p.
Request a Quote
Japan Road Trip: Kyushu Edition
Fukuoka, Kyushu, and OsakaExplore Japan’s southern island on this independent trip through Kyushu’s lush forests, volcanic peaks, sea cliffs and soul-soothing hot spring towns.
15 days
From US$4,031/p.p.
Request a Quote
Japan In Style: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
Osaka, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Hakone, Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingExplore the highlights of Japan through its most iconic cities—Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka. Discover a dynamic mix of culture, cuisine, and history, from vibrant markets and modern cityscapes to ancient temples and traditional districts. With seamless
9 days
From US$7,368/p.p.
Request a Quote
Whispers of Old Japan: Culture, Forests & Fjords
Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Hakone, Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingUncover the rich tapestry of Japan on this exclusive cultural journey, featuring private tours of iconic landmarks and authentic experiences from Tokyo to Osaka.
11 days
From US$5,255/p.p.
Request a Quote
Japan Odyssey: Cherry Blossom Edition
Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingSee Japan in bloom on this small group tour, from Kyoto’s shrines to Tokyo’s neon, with onsen soaks, geisha culture, and spring’s most fleeting wonder.
11 days
From US$8,599/p.p.
Request a Quote
Japan Uncovered: Pop Culture & Cuisine
Osaka, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingPrivate-guided and Small group journey through Japan, blending anime worlds, temple rituals, and late-night izakaya flavours for curious travellers.
10 days
From US$5,532/p.p.
Request a Quote
Ultimate Japan: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto & More
Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingJourney through Japan's enchanting landscapes, from modern Tokyo to historic Kyoto. Slip into a kimono and immerse yourself in a traditional tea ceremony along the way.
15 days
From US$8,609/p.p.
Request a Quote
Japan Road Trip: Kyushu Edition
Fukuoka, Kyushu, and OsakaExplore Japan’s southern island on this independent trip through Kyushu’s lush forests, volcanic peaks, sea cliffs and soul-soothing hot spring towns.
15 days
From US$4,031/p.p.
Request a Quote
Japan In Style: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
Osaka, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Hakone, Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingExplore the highlights of Japan through its most iconic cities—Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka. Discover a dynamic mix of culture, cuisine, and history, from vibrant markets and modern cityscapes to ancient temples and traditional districts. With seamless
9 days
From US$7,368/p.p.
Request a Quote
Whispers of Old Japan: Culture, Forests & Fjords
Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Hakone, Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and Shibuya CrossingUncover the rich tapestry of Japan on this exclusive cultural journey, featuring private tours of iconic landmarks and authentic experiences from Tokyo to Osaka.
11 days
From US$5,255/p.p.
Request a Quote
What do the experts say?
You should try a Zen meditation session. Imagine slipping into a silk kimono for the day—carefully tied by an expert dresser, every fold precise, every colour chosen to suit the season. It’s a ritual that feels as personal as it is timeless.
What do I love about Japan? In a word - EVERYTHING. The incredible contrast that Japan offers - new/innovative vs old/traditional, the warm and welcoming people, the incredible rich culture, the culinary wonders awaiting around every corner, the cleanliness, efficiency and safety. It's one of the best places to visit in Asia in my opinion.
Every season offers something to fall in love with, but autumn feels especially magical—fewer tourists, crisp weather, and foliage that rivals the famous blossoms.
Osaka's entertainment and nightlife district
The Osaka Castle is always a popular inclusion ...
Faces representing people from around the world
The dense skyline of Umeda District
Japanese castle architecture
Travel Stories
Get inspired about Your Trip to Japan
Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.
With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way.Exclusive Savings
Insider Benefits
Trending Stories
ExcellentBased on 5,251 ReviewsVery nice!🥰😘💙❤️🇪🇸🇭🇷Andrea MarićWe recently traveled to Portugal and had the most wonderful experience. As our first venture overseas, we decided to search online for travel assistance. We happened across Goway Travel and are so glad we did!
Michael Keon, our Destination Specialist, is extremely proficient and knowledgeable in his profession. "Thorough" is an understatement. He assisted every step of the way from the moment we stepped on our flights, transfer arrangements, hotel accommodations, train travel and multiple tours/outings tailored to our specific needs/wish list.
He provided unparalleled guidance and support during the planning process and was always available to discuss any questions/concerns. His communications were always prompt and concise.
Without a doubt, our best trip to date...there will be no hesitation to contact Mr. Keon for future travels.
Joanna Lynn Mays
Michael Andrew Mays
Joanna MaysWhat made this experience great was Cedric Wai. Had a client going to Asia and this is Cedric's wheelhouse since he is from there.
Everything was wonderful. Everything went smoothly. The individual tours were wonderful and all the guides were exceptional. A lot of traveling-the flight was very good on Cathay Pacific would highly recommend their airline seats were comfortable and spaced well. Being on an airplane for 16 hours sucks in general, but other than being a little sore from being stuck in one place all was good.
Thank you so much for all your help and the trip was wonderful and everything that it should be! Next trip will be much more relaxing, sitting still for a while on a beach somewhere ha ha!Careen SullivanAndrea Paredes helped me plan a last minute Colombia trip for my clients who had never been! They loved every minute of it. The hotels, history, excursions, and flights went very smooth. They were so happy with all their tour guides. Deanna Frisbie BorregoMy destination specialist, Katie Stephenson was amazing from the onset. Her customer service, communication style and planning skills was so timely and top notch.
Our trip was to Fiji, New Zealand and Australia, from Aug 4-22, 2026. The way she planned and booked the trip makes the experience convenient and enjoyable. The flexibility of payment makes the decision faster and attractive. Everything we need to know including contacts were readily available within our travel documents itinerary.
Overall, I'll say it's money well spent and a lifetime experience particularly for my kids.FestusI'm a new travel agent and used Goway to help plan a group trip to the UK. Ani, from Goway was so great! She was very detailed oriented, she had great communication and was very thorough in the planning. I felt confident that my clients would be taken care of. My clients had an amazing trip and loved all of it! SieKyeAthul Ajay was our travel agent and he was excellent from the beginning to the end of planning our trip. Great at communicating and replying back too. Sabrina GaffoglioIsabella Luu made the arrangements for our trip to Scotland and all aspects of the trip and stay were excellent. Our assistance at the airports were very good as all were alerted to our needs. Our ride services were excellent. Isabella was always available to answer any questions that we had in a knowledgable and prompt manner, which is always very important to me.Audrey HenryHad an excellent tour of Australia, thanks to our travel specialist Katie Stephenson. She was patient as we kept modifying our plans. Got support from Goway and Katie when there was a need to rebook a tour midway through, all handled easily by Goway.Ron PrestonWe went on a highly customized comprehensive (though quick tour) of England and a bit of Scotland through Goway. Ingrid Aird did an amazing job of planning and arranging every detail with her deep experience, insight, thoughtfulness and creativity, tuning into the needs of each traveler; and she did so even though our decision to travel was rather spontaneous and last minute! Our family had the best time! We look forward to working with Ingrid and Goway again!Vilja Breiling
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified