Osaka is the economic center of western Japan. The prefecture is divided into two major urban hubs: Kita (North), which includes Umeda and the area around Osaka City; and Minami (South), which includes the areas around Namba and Dotonbori. Kita and Minami are just a 10-minute car journey apart and are sufficiently close enough to visit both in one day.
Public transportation in Osaka is always very crowded, so sightseeing by car is a more comfortable choice.
About the airports
Osaka is home to two airports: Kansai International Airport for international flights and Osaka International (Itami) Airport for domestic flights. Kansai International Airport in the southern part of Osaka makes it easy to get to Minami, roughly 50 minutes away by car. On the other hand, Osaka International Airport is in the northern part of the prefecture and is roughly 20 minutes by car to Kita.
Sightseeing and activities
Kita is an urban area. Some of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks can be found here, like the giant Ferris wheel at Hep Five and the Umeda Sky Building, a unique skyscraper with 40 floors above ground.
If you want to experience the vibrant spirit of Osaka, Minami is where you need to be. In Minami, you will find a wide array of popular street food, including takoyaki octopus poppers and okonomiyaki savory pancakes. You’ll also find the giant Glico Man billboard, one of Osaka’s most recognizable landmarks.
Another popular attraction is Osaka Castle, which is located between the two areas. Parking at major attractions will not be a concern, as both dedicated and coin-operated parking spaces are available nearby.
Local events
Every July, Osaka Tenman-gu Shrine hosts the Tenjin Matsuri or Tenjin Festival, one of Japan’s three major festivals featuring a stunning evening spectacle of boats and fireworks on the river. However, there may be traffic restrictions during the event, so be sure to check the traffic status before you head out.