The place to Keep in Osaka in 2023 (Finest Areas and Locations)

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you have to visit Osaka. A vibrant city full of culture, that’s famous for its mouthwatering street food, various shopping options, and exciting nightlife. But, before you can explore everything Osaka has to offer, you first have to figure out where to stay in Osaka.

I’ve visited Osaka countless times; not only was Osaka my home base when I spent a year living abroad in Japan, but my mom was born and raised in Osaka. As a result, I consider the city to be my second home.

I’ve been traveling to Osaka ever since I was a child and have stayed in accommodations around the entire city; from Tennoji to Umeda. Needless to say, I have a fair bit of experience with most of the Osaka neighborhoods.

So, whether you’re looking for an urban oasis close to the action or something quieter but still easily accessible by train, I’ve got you covered. Within this post, I will outline the best areas to stay in Osaka for first-time visitors, for the best nightlife, for the coolest vibes, for families, and for those on a budget. I’ll also provide some of the best accommodation options, from chic boutiques to luxurious hotels and lively hostels.

Without further ado, let’s get into this list of the best places to stay in Osaka:

Best Areas to Stay in Osaka

Quick Look: These are the Best Areas to Stay in Osaka

Kita (Umeda): Best Place To Stay in Osaka for Your First Time

First up, if you’re looking for places to stay in Osaka center, then you should look at the Kita (Umeda) area. Considered to be the best neighborhood in Osaka, Umeda is located in the north of Osaka (Kita translates to north). The center for transportation and business, it offers a bit of everything: delicious food, great shopping, various museums, historic shrines, and tranquil parks.

I absolutely love staying in Kita (Umeda), since you can’t beat this area for convenience. Umeda Station is one of the largest and busiest train stations in Japan, with lines heading into Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. Being so close to this line saves so much time, and as a result, means you’re unlikely to get lost on any train transfers (which I’ve done multiple times on my trips to Japan).

It’s also close to some amazing shopping and dining options, and yet there are many quiet, spacious streets too, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. In all honesty, I prefer Kita (Umeda) over Minami (Namba) for this reason alone, as I’m not a huge fan of constant crowds.

Best Places to Stay in Kita (Umeda)

If you’re wondering where to stay in Osaka city center, read on for some of the best accommodation options in Kita (Umeda):

1. Aloft Osaka Dojima: A 4-star hotel with a chic and modern design, Aloft Osaka Dojima is a great hotel option located close to the canal. With friendly and professional staff, spacious rooms, delicious breakfast, and a fitness center, Aloft Osaka Dojima is the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Click here for more details.

2. Hotel Elcient Osaka: For a cheaper, 3-star hotel located close to Umeda Station, I recommend Hotel Elcient Osaka. Offering an onsen (public bath), a sauna, a fitness center, and a buffet breakfast, Hotel Elcient Osaka is the ideal choice if you’re looking for an affordable, clean, and comfortable hotel in Kita (Umeda). Click here to learn more.

3. Conrad Osaka: If you’re interested in luxury, then Conrad Osaka could be the perfect choice for you. Located on Nakanoshima Island, Conrad Osaka offers spectacular views of the city, lovely rooms, a heated indoor pool, a fitness area, and multiple amazing restaurants. For more details, click here.

5 Top Things To Do in Kita (Umeda)

Here are some of the best things to do in Kita (Umeda):

1. Umeda Sky Building: Offering spectacular panoramic views of Osaka, the Umeda Sky Building is an iconic landmark consisting of two connected skyscrapers. With its Kuchu Teien Observatory located 173 meters up in the air, the Umeda Sky Building provides an unparalleled lookout of Osaka. The building also features a cafe, a restaurant, and a gallery shop, and tickets cost 1,500 yen ($10.61 USD). Click here for directions to the Umeda Sky Building.

2. Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai: If you’re looking for some of the best deals in Umeda, you have to check out Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai, Japan’s longest shopping street. Filled with amazing, family-owned, budget-friendly shopping and dining options, this 2.6-kilometer-long shopping street takes 40+ minutes to explore. Click here for directions.

3. HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel: One of the most well-known sights in Umeda, taking a ride on the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is another fabulous way to admire some stunning views of Osaka. Sitting on top of a mall filled with trendy shops marketed towards the youth, this is a great place for families to visit. The ride costs 600 yen (around $4.25 USD), and each air-conditioned carriage holds up to four people. Click here for directions to the HEP Five Ferris Wheel.

4. Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine: For one of Umeda’s top cultural and historical sites, you have to visit the Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine. Built over 1300 years ago, it’s famous for its tragic love story between Ohatsu and Tokubei; a story akin to Romeo and Juliet, making it the perfect stop for couples. Furthermore, it’s also located at the end of the Ohatsu-Tenjindori Shotengai, a shopping street filled with budget-friendly stores, and it hosts a flea market on the first Friday of every month. Click here for directions to the Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine.

5. Pokemon Center: Whether you’re visiting Osaka with children, friends, a significant other, or alone, the Pokemon Center is a must-see attraction. Located in the Umeda Daimaru Department Store, the entire 13th floor is devoted to all things Pokemon. With interactive displays and arcade games, the Pokemon Center offers an exciting experience for kids and adults alike. Click here for directions.

Where to Eat and Drink in Kita (Umeda)

Here are a few of the best bars and restaurants in Kita (Umeda):

1. Nidaime Hamaguri-Ramen Shieru: If you’re looking for a small and cozy restaurant offering some of the most delicious ramen in Osaka, then the Nidaime Hamaguri-Ramen Shieru is the place to go. A local favorite, this unpretentious restaurant is the perfect spot to re-energize after a long day of sightseeing.

2. Gimpei Osaka-Kitashinchi: An izakaya (a casual Japanese bar that offers small dishes and snacks along with its drinks) filled with mouth-watering seafood, the Gimpei Osaka-Kitashinchi definitely earns its immense popularity and reputation. With comfortable, traditional tatami rooms and a relaxing ambiance, this is one of the best restaurants in Umeda.

3. Bar K: This small but popular bar focuses on providing some of the best cocktails with Japanese whisky, and offers impeccable service and a relaxing atmosphere. Known for being unpretentious and English-friendly, Bar K is the perfect spot to unwind.

Minami (Namba): Best Area in Osaka for Nightlife

If you’re wondering where to stay in Osaka for nightlife, then you should consider the Minami (Namba) area. With Minami translating to ‘south’, the Namba area is (unsurprisingly) located in southern Osaka. The area is home to a plethora of restaurants and bars and is known for its bright neon signs, assorted shops, and various entertainment options.

I spent over a month staying in an apartment in the heart of Namba, and it was incredible to constantly be so close to some of the top Osaka sights such as the Glico Running Man sign and the Yasaka Jinja shrine. However, I also honestly found it quite overwhelming. As soon as I left my apartment, I was encompassed by crowds (and this was during the pandemic when there were no international tourists).

I wasn’t a huge fan of staying in Namba because I get quite anxious in crowds, but if you’re social, into nightlife, and love being surrounded by activity, then Minami (Namba) is the perfect choice when considering where to stay in Osaka.

Best Places to Stay in Minami (Namba)

Here are some of the best accommodation options in Minami (Namba). In other words, these are the top Osaka hotels near nightlife:

1. Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station: Located right outside Namba Station and the Namba Parks shopping mall is the Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station. With great views from the ninth floor and a delicious breakfast spread, it’s the perfect choice for those seeking comfort and convenience. Click here for more details.

2. Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka: Another hotel with a fantastic location, the Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka is right outside the JR Namba Station. With a British-inspired interior design and stunning surrounding views, this hotel is perfect for those seeking a more luxurious stay. Click here to learn more.

3. Fourz Hotel Kintetsu Osaka-Namba: For a more affordable yet very comfortable hotel located right in the middle of Namba, you have to check out Fourz Hotel Kintetsu Osaka-Namba. Not only does this hotel offer an onsen (public bath), but it’s also just a few minutes away from Osaka’s iconic Glico Running Man sign and the Dotonbori Canal. It is without a doubt the best place to stay in Osaka for nightlife. If you want to learn more, click here.

5 Top Things To Do in Minami (Namba)

Here are some of the best things to do in Minami (Namba):

1. Dotonbori and the Glico Running Man Sign: Dotonbori is the beating heart of Namba and the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the cultural and exciting nightlife of Osaka. Following the narrow Dotonbori River, this neighborhood is home to bright multi-dimensional signs, delicious food stalls, and a wide variety of shops.

From the iconic Glico Running Man sign, (where you absolutely have to copy his famous pose), to the giant Don Quijote discount store, there’s something for everyone in Namba. Click here for directions to Dotonbori and the Glico Running Man sign.

2. Kuromon Ichiba Market: An essential stop for all the foodies out there, the Kuromon Ichiba Market is a vibrant public market that dates back to the Edo period. Filled with over 150 shops offering the best seafood, produce, and sweets, this is the perfect place to sample new foods, with many vendors offering small portions of mouthwatering local cuisine. It does get pretty crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly. Click here for directions to the Kuromon Ichiba Market.

3. Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade: Another incredible shopping spot in Namba, the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade is a bustling street spanning around 600 meters. With a wide variety of shops from drug stores selling affordable cosmetics to clothing stores selling traditional kimonos or trendy new street clothes, the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade is the perfect place for some window shopping. Click here for directions to the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade.

4. Namba Yasaka Shrine: If you’re looking for something a little different and slightly bizarre, you have to check out the Namba Yasaka Shrine – it’s one of the most unique shrines I’ve ever visited. With its main building shaped like a giant lion head, its teeth bared to demolish any evil spirits following you (resulting in good luck), it’s one of Osaka’s most worthy Instagram spots. Click here for directions to the Namba Yasaka Shrine.

5. Namba Bar Hopping and Night Walking Tour: Last but not least, one of the best things to do in Namba is to enjoy its vibrant nightlife, and one of the greatest ways to do this is to take a bar hopping tour. I highly recommend this tour in particular, as it takes you to the coolest local bars that are mostly undiscovered by tourists. Click here to learn more and book the tour.

Where to Eat and Drink in Minami (Namba)

Here are a few of the best bars and restaurants in Minami (Namba):

1. Yakiniku M Hozenjiyokocho: A great choice for meat lovers, Yakiniku M Hozenjiyokocho is a cozy and popular joint where you grill the meat yourself. Providing high-quality meats and amazing side dishes, Yakiniku M Hozenjiyokocho is a great option to visit as a group (I love eating yakiniku with friends).

2. Ajinoya Honten: When I think about Osakan cuisine, I think of two dishes: takoyaki (grilled octopus) and okonomiyaki (a savory pancake). If you’re interested in trying the latter, then you have to stop by Ajinoya Honten, an awesome okonomiyaki restaurant in the center of Namba. While its popularity means that you may have to wait a while before getting seated, it’s undoubtedly worth it.

3. Voyager Stand Osaka: If you’re after a lively and exciting bar with friendly staff, affordable drinks, and an upbeat atmosphere, then I recommend visiting the Voyager Stand Osaka. You won’t be disappointed.

Amerikamura: Coolest Place to Stay in Osaka

Located north of Dotonbori, (of the Minami (Namba) area), Amerikamura is one of the trendiest and most artistic districts in Osaka. Filled with funky and colorful murals, wonderful second-hand clothing stores, and inviting cafes, Amerikamura has been Osaka’s center for youth culture and fashion since the 1970s. Amerikamura also has a thriving live music and nightlife scene, so it’s great for those wondering where to stay in Osaka for the music, clubs, and fashion.

While I’ve never stayed in Amerikamura myself, I’ve visited the area multiple times. It has some of the coolest vintage stores in Osaka and I really love wandering around and admiring the unique street art. So, if you’re interested in staying in a super cool and interesting neighborhood, Amerikamura is one of the best places to stay in Osaka.

Best Places to Stay in Amerikamura

Here are some of the best accommodation options in Amerikamura:

1. Henn na Hotel Osaka Namba: If you’re intrigued by the idea of being checked into a hotel by dinosaurs, then you have to check out the Henn na Hotel Osaka Namba, located in the center of Amerikamura. Not only is it surrounded by restaurants, cafes, pubs, and a public market, but it also comes with free parking (for those wondering where to stay in Osaka with parking). Click here for more details.

2. Shinsaibashi ARTY Inn: Another great hotel option in the middle of Amerikamura, Shinsaibashi ARTY Inn offers clean, comfortable rooms, a spa, a sauna, and an onsen (public bath). It’s also located in an amazing spot, surrounded by several vintage, music, and artsy shops. If you want to learn more, click here.

3. The Bridge Hotel Shinsaibashi: Situated right outside Shinsaibashi Station, the Bridge Hotel Shinsaibashi offers some incredible amenities. These include complimentary smartphones in each room, free bicycle rentals, free ramen from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm, free drinks in the evening, and a buffet breakfast. Click here to learn more.

5 Top Things To Do in Amerikamura

Here are some of the best things to do in Amerikamura:

1. Vintage Shops: Amerikamura is one of the best neighborhoods in Osaka thanks to the plethora of amazing vintage stores, such as ACORN and RAIN. It also has a few 2nd Street locations, a popular Japanese thrift store chain that I absolutely love. So, if you’re interested in checking out some of the best second-hand stores in Osaka, Amerikamura is the place to be.

2. The Silver Ball Planet: An upbeat retro arcade located in the center of Amerikamura, the Silver Ball Planet is perfect for any nostalgic lovers of pinball.

3. Triangle Park: Although Triangle Park isn’t particularly pretty, it’s an iconic landmark of Amerikamura. Otherwise known as Mitsu Park or Sankaku Park, it’s a small courtyard and popular meeting spot that’s great for people-watching.

4. Cafes: One of my favorite things to do in Osaka is to relax in one of its many cafes and enjoy some incredible pastries. Some popular cafe choices in Amerikamura include the unique Reptile Cafe Dining Rock Star, The Roasters Coffee Shinsaibashi, and Elk.

5. Street Art: One of the reasons why I love visiting Amerikamura is because of its street art. I highly recommend checking it out in between perusing the various vintage shops and cafes.

6. Main Sites & Hidden Spots Guided Walking Tour: Explore Osaka’s best spots and hidden gems on a private guided tour. Visit Osaka Castle, Namba, Dotonbori, or customize the itinerary to match your interests.

Where to Eat and Drink in Amerikamura

Here are a few of the best bars and restaurants in Amerikamura:

1. Kogaryu Honten: If you’re interested in trying one of Osaka’s most celebrated dishes, then you have to check out Kogaryu Honten. Serving takoyaki (savory balls filled with grilled octopus), this cheap street food is one of my favorites. But be careful, they’re served particularly hot (especially in the center).

2. Hokkyokusei: Offering omurice (a combination of omelet and rice), this cozy restaurant has a great atmosphere. Serving their delicious food in a tatami room beside a delightful little garden, this is the perfect spot to relax for lunch.

3. Rockrock: One of the most popular bars in Amerikamura, Rockrock is an awesome place for tourists. The staff are all fluent in English (and very friendly), and the bar plays great music and has a welcoming atmosphere.

Osaka Bay Area: Best for Families

So far, we’ve described some of the best neighborhoods located in the center of Osaka. However, Osaka is a port city. So, if you’re hoping to spend some quality time closer to the water, then the Osaka Bay area is certainly worth looking into.

It’s also the ultimate choice for families as the Osaka Bay area is home to Universal Studios Japan, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, and several entertaining shopping malls. It’s the perfect destination for any child (or fun-loving adult).

I’ve never stayed in the Osaka Bay area before, but I absolutely love visiting the neighborhood (I have fond memories of visiting as a child, and going to Universal Studios Japan was always a highlight). But even when I don’t visit the amusement park, I find it so relaxing to walk along the water and watch the locals fishing. Needless to say, the Osaka Bay area is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Osaka.

Best Places to Stay in the Osaka Bay Area

Here are some of the best accommodation options in the Osaka Bay area:

1. Hotel Universal Port: Located at the edge of the Aji River right next to Universal Studios Japan, the Hotel Universal Port is the perfect place to go for those wondering where to stay in Osaka with family. Not only does the hotel offer spectacular ocean views, but it also provides clean and spacious rooms and an expansive breakfast spread. To learn more, click here.

2. The Singulari Hotel and Skyspa at Universal Studios Japan: The Singulari Hotel and Skyspa is located right outside the JR Universal-City train station, just minutes from Universal Studios Japan, and the perfect choice for those with small children. It also offers a rooftop spa, making it an amazing spot to relax after a long day out. Click here for more details.

3. USJに一番近いゲストハウス J-Hoppers Osaka Universal: Translating to “the closest guesthouse to Universal Studios Japan”, J-Hoppers Osaka Universal is an ideal accommodation for families on a budget. Offering private and dormitory rooms, this hotel is less than a mile from Universal Studios Japan and is located close to the Aji River. Click here to learn more.

5 Top Things To Do in the Osaka Bay Area

Here are some of the best things to do in the Osaka Bay Area:

1. Universal Studios Japan: If you’re visiting Osaka with children, then you absolutely must visit Universal Studios Japan. It’s probably the best amusement park I’ve ever visited; with a ton of great rides including Jurassic Park, The Ride to Harry Potter, and the Forbidden Journey, there are a plethora of fun-filled and thrilling attractions suited for all ages. It also offers some of the best places to stay near Osaka. Click here to learn more and book your ticket.

2. Osaka Port Diamond Point: My favorite place in the Osaka Bay area to people-watch, the Osaka Port Diamond Point is a picturesque wooden deck that’s popular among locals (especially for fishing), that remains relatively unknown to tourists. It’s also one of the best places to admire the sunset in Osaka. Click here for directions to the Osaka Port Diamond Point.

3. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel: If you’re interested in admiring the spectacular Osaka Bay from a new perspective, then you have to visit the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel. Click here to learn more and book.

4. Tempozan Market Place: Located right next to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Tempozan Market Place is a huge shopping mall filled with a wide array of shops and incredible restaurants. Click here for directions to the Tempozan Market Place.

5. Maishima Ryokuchi Park: Last but not least, Maishima Ryokuchi Park is an enchanting little park located on an artificial island. Perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers, this is one of Osaka’s more upmarket areas. Click here for directions to Maishima Ryokuchi Park.

Where to Eat and Drink in the Osaka Bay Area

Here are a few of the best bars and restaurants in the Osaka Bay Area:

1. Akarenga Steak House: If you’re a meat lover and you’re interested in visiting a higher-end restaurant with a vintage theme and a relaxing ambiance, then I recommend eating at the Akarenga Steak House.

2. Yakiniku Restaurant: Another great restaurant for meat enthusiasts, Yakiniku Restaurant offers a wide range of delicious meats that you can cook on your own mini grill. This makes it the perfect, fun dining experience for families and makes for an interesting date night.

3. Osaka Takoyaki Park: Located on the Universal City Walk right outside Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Takoyaki Park consists of 5 to 6 stalls selling different flavors of takoyaki (a ball-shaped Japanese snack). This is also the perfect place to get some cute, takoyaki-themed souvenirs.

Tennoji: Best Place in Osaka on a Budget

Last but not least, let’s talk about the best place to stay in Osaka for those on a budget: Tennoji.

I often choose to stay in Tennoji due to its low prices and it never disappoints. You can find some of the cheapest hostels in Osaka (and all of Japan) in this neighborhood, and while it has a reputation for being a little seedy, I mostly consider it to be pretty safe (other than a few sketchy alleyways).

Over the past several years, Tennoji has been transforming into a significant downtown hub, and yet the accommodation prices have remained affordable.

Tennoji is one of my favorite places to stay in Osaka, thanks to its convenient proximity to several shopping malls, cheap but incredible restaurants, and Tennoji Station (a transportation hub that connects several JR and non-JR local and rapid lines).

Furthermore, one of my favorite things to do in Osaka is to visit Shitenno-ji temple, which is located in the Tennoji area.

Best Places to Stay in Tennoji

Here are some of the best accommodation options in Tennoji (with some of the top-rated cheap places to stay in Osaka):

1. Backpackers Hotel Toyo: Located right outside the train station Dobutsuen-Mae, the Backpackers Hotel Toyo is the perfect choice for those who want a private room for very affordable prices. Offering traditional Japanese futon beds on a tatami floor, this hotel is clean, cheap, and convenient for backpackers. Click here to learn more.

2. Via Inn Abeno Tennoji: Only minutes away from Tennoji station is the Via Inn Abeno Tennoji, a 3-star mid-range hotel. Located close to Don Quijote (a huge discount store), this hotel is the perfect place to relax. Click here for more details.

3. Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno: If you want to stay in quiet and cozy rooms right across the street from Tennoji Station, you have to check out the Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno. With friendly and professional staff and a decent Western breakfast spread, this hotel is both convenient and comfortable. To learn more, click here.

5 Top Things To Do in Tennoji

Here are some of the best things to do in Tennoji:

1. Shitenno-ji: Founded in 593, Shitenno-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple that houses a beautiful pond and hosts a bustling flea market on the 21st of each month. It’s one of my favorite places to visit in Osaka and one of the reasons why Tennoji is the best place to stay when visiting. Click here for directions to Shitenno-ji Temple.

2. Tsutenkaku Tower: An iconic landmark of Tennoji, the Tsutenkaku Tower was initially built in 1912. With an observation deck located at a height of 91 meters, this tower offers incredible views of Tennoji and Osaka. Click here for directions to Tsutenkaku Tower.

3. Abeno Harukas: If you’re interested in even more spectacular views of Osaka, you have to visit Abeno Harukas. It’s the tallest skyscraper in Osaka, standing at 300 meters tall, and offers an observation deck, a department store, and an art museum. Click here for directions to Abeno Harukas.

4. Tennoji Park: For a more serene and peaceful thing to do in Tennoji, I recommend checking out Tennoji Park. Including a botanical garden, the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, and more, this expansive park offers many attractions. Click here for directions to Tennoji Park.

5. Go Shopping (Abeno Q’s Mall, Tennoji MIO, Abeno LUCIAS, etc.): If you’re a shopaholic, then Tennoji is the perfect place to stay. With a ton of malls located right next to each other, it’s my favorite place to buy stationery, clothes, crafts, souvenirs, and more. Click here for directions to the Tennoji MIO Mall.

Where to Eat and Drink in Tennoji

Here are a few of the best bars and restaurants in Tennoji:

1. Shitennoji Hayauchi: Serving some of the best soba, (thin Japanese noodles made from buckwheat), in Osaka, Shitennoji Hayauchi is an incredible restaurant offering traditional dishes, friendly service, and a relaxing ambiance.

2. Kikuya: An affordable spot serving kushikatsu (deep-fried vegetables and meats on a skewer), Kikuya is a popular joint located in Shinsekai – a vibrant district filled with delicious food.

3. Bar Nocosarejima: If you’re interested in checking out Tennoji’s bars, then you have to visit Bar Nocosarejima. A chill, vintage-themed bar serving various cocktails alongside a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Overall, with a wide variety of delicious restaurants, upbeat bars, temples, malls, and more, Tennoji is an amazing place to stay (especially if you’re looking for places to stay in Osaka for groups since it’s so cheap).

Best Areas to Stay in Osaka: FAQs

Here are some answers to some commonly asked questions about where to stay in Osaka:

In Conclusion

I hope this article provided you with a better idea of where to stay in Osaka and what each area offers. Whether you’re visiting Osaka for its nightlife or its shopping, to admire some beautiful views, or to explore its spectacular day trips, there’s something in this amazing city for everyone.

So, pack up your bags and prepare to visit one of my favorite cities in the world, I hope you have an awesome trip.

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