Planning a family trip to Osaka? While it's exciting, many people traveling with young children may find choosing destinations challenging. This article introduces 21 recommended sightseeing spots in Osaka that can be enjoyed with children from preschool to elementary school age!
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Hotel Management Japan Co., Ltd. is a hotel management company that operates 24 hotels in Japan (total number of rooms: 7,601). In addition to its own brands, "Oriental Hotel" and "Hotel Oriental Express," the company also manages and operates a variety of hotels, including "Hilton," "Sheraton," and "Hotel Nikko."
Where would be a good base for sightseeing in Osaka with children?
When sightseeing in Osaka with children, choosing the right base is crucial. Choosing an area that is "easy to get around" and "enjoyable for children without getting bored" will ensure a comfortable stay for the whole family.
There are several areas in Osaka City that are home to many family-friendly tourist facilities, but the "Bay Area" and the "Minami Area" are particularly recommended.
First, let's look at the characteristics of each.
Aquariums and theme parks too! The Bay Area boasts a wealth of leisure facilities.
The Bay Area is located around Osaka Port and is home to many large facilities popular with children, such as the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and Universal Studios Japan (USJ).
With both indoor and outdoor facilities available, it's great that you can enjoy yourself regardless of the weather. It's also easy to get around with a stroller, and many facilities have nursing rooms, so you can enjoy yourself with peace of mind even with small children.
The Oriental Hotel Universal City, located just a one-minute walk from Universal Studios Japan (USJ), is the perfect base for your sightseeing.
We offer room types that can accommodate children sleeping in the same bed, as well as amenities for children, ensuring that guests with children can enjoy a comfortable and worry-free stay.
Excellent access! The Minami area offers plenty to enjoy, from gourmet food to sightseeing.
The Minami area, known for Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori, offers plenty of sightseeing, dining, and shopping opportunities, making it a great place for families to enjoy.
It offers easy access to major tourist attractions within Osaka City, as well as to Sakai City, Suita City, Ikeda City, and Hirakata City, making it an ideal base for sightseeing.
How aboutNamba Oriental Hotel as your base for fully enjoying the charming Minami area?
Located just a few minutes' walk from Namba Station, it's a place where adults and children alike can quickly relax and unwind after a long journey.
We offer baby cribs for ¥1,000 per night and bed guards are available for free rental, among other support to ensure a comfortable stay even when traveling with a baby.
1. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan ( Minato Ward , Osaka City )
Kaiyukan, known as one of the world's largest aquariums, is home to approximately 30,000 marine creatures of about 620 species.
In the large tank that recreates the Pacific Ocean, giant whale sharks sometimes swim right in front of you, allowing you to observe their impressive form up close.
Most of the building has ramps, making it easy to move around with a stroller. Baby care rooms equipped with diaper changing tables and formula dispensers, as well as nursing rooms, are also available.
Location: 1-1-10 Osaka Prefecture, Minato-ku , Osaka City Minato Ward
Opening hours: Varies by day. Please check the official website. Official website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/
2. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel ( Minato Ward , Osaka City )
Standing at 112.5 meters tall, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel is famous as one of the world's largest Ferris wheels. It has also been designated a Japanese Night View Heritage site.
From the gondola, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka Bay and the bay area, and on a clear day, you can even see the Akashi Strait.
There are also see-through gondolas, offering an experience where you can enjoy thrills and spectacular views at the same time. At night, the gondolas are lit up, creating a magical atmosphere for viewing, which is another attractive feature.
Location: 1-1-10 Osaka Prefecture, Minato-ku , Osaka City Minato Ward
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (or until 10:00 PM) *Please check the official website. Official website: http://tempozan-kanransya.com/
3. Santa Maria, a sailing ship-type sightseeing boat in Osaka Port ( Minato Ward , Osaka City )
This tourist boat is modeled after the "Santa Maria," the historical sailing ship used by Columbus on his voyage to discover the New World in the 15th century.
Enjoy a special experience cruising through Osaka Port for approximately 45 minutes, offering stunning views of the bay area from the sea.
This is a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery while feeling the sea breeze from the deck, take photos with your family, and spend some leisurely time.
Children aged 3 and older, up to preschool age, can board the Santa Maria free of charge (one child per adult). This is a great benefit for families with young children.
Location: 1-1-10 Osaka Prefecture, Minato-ku , Osaka City Minato Ward(Kaiyukan West Pier)
Operating hours: Departures every hour on the hour between 11:00 and 17:00. Official website: https://suijo-bus.osaka/intro/santamaria/
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka (Minato Minato Ward , Osaka City )
This indoor theme park features a tour of the LEGO brick factory, a miniland recreating the streets of Osaka , and more, all housed in millions of LEGO bricks.
There are 11 different attractions, including a 4D cinema and roller coasters.
As it's an indoor facility, you can play regardless of the weather, and it's equipped with a playground and cafe space. It's a great place for parents and children to relax and spend time together.
Location: 3F, Tenpozan Marketplace, 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward , Osaka City Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: Varies by day. Please check the official website. Official website: https://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/osaka/
5. Universal Studios Japan ( Osaka City , Konohana Ward )
USJ is a theme park where you can experience the world of movies. It boasts many popular areas for children, such as Super Nintendo World and Minion Park.
"Family services" are set up in three locations within the park, where you can breastfeed, feed, and change diapers for your baby, and you can also use hot water for formula and a microwave for making baby food.
In addition, we have a total of 45 baby care beds, as well as stroller rentals and a nursing room, so you can relax and enjoy your stay even with children.
The Oriental Hotel Universal City is located within Universal CityWalk Osaka , which is adjacent to the park.
The Oriental Hotel Universal City is one of the official hotels of Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and is conveniently located within easy walking distance.
Location: 2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward , Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: Vary depending on the day. *Please check the official website. Official website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/ja/jp
6. Osaka Science and Technology Museum ( Nishi Ward , Osaka City )
This facility offers a fun way to learn about science and technology through five themes, including energy and the Earth. It features numerous interactive exhibits, allowing children to develop an interest in science while playing.
Another great point is that admission is free. Since it's adjacent to Utsubo Park, you can enjoy a picnic on a nice day if you bring a picnic blanket and lunch.
Location: 1-8-4 Utsubohonmachi , Nishi Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closes at 4:30 PM on Sundays and public holidays)
Official website: https://www.ostec.or.jp/pop/
7. Dotonbori Kukuru Konamon Museum ( Chuo Ward , Osaka City )
This is a konamon food theme park run by the famous takoyaki shop "Dotonbori Kukuru," where you can experience the culture of "konamon" (flour-based foods), including takoyaki.
With activities like making takoyaki food samples, there are plenty of things to get both kids and adults excited. Located in the heart of the Dotonbori area, it's the perfect place to stop by while sightseeing.
The Dotonbori Kukuru Konamon Museum is located in the heart of the Dotonbori area, and there are plenty of accommodations in the surrounding area.
For example, if you stay atthe Namba Oriental Hotel , you can reach the Dotonbori Kukuru Konamon Museum in about 7 minutes on foot.
It's an ideal base for sightseeing in Osaka with children, as you can relax at the hotel if you get a little tired during your sightseeing.
Location: 1-6-12 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward , Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (10:00 AM - 9:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)
Official website: https://dotonbori-kukuru.com/dotonbori-konamon-museum/
8. Tennoji Zoo ( Tennnouji Ward , Osaka City )
This historic zoo opened in 1915 (Taisho 4).
The vast 11-hectare site features multiple areas, including the "Penguin Park & Sea Lion Wharf" and the "African Savannah Zone," and is home to approximately 1,000 animals of about 170 species.
The park is equipped with nursing rooms and baby changing facilities. Strollers are also available for rent, so you can enjoy your visit with peace of mind even if you're with small children.
Location: 1-108 Mount Chausu Tennnouji Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:00 PM)
Official website: https://www.tennojizoo.jp/
9. Kids Plaza Osaka (Kita Kita Ward , Osaka City )
It opened in 1997 as Japan's first full-fledged museum for children.
The park is packed with exhibits where children can learn while playing, including a giant athletic playground called "Children's Town," a multi-purpose workshop space called "Kids Lab," and a "Library" where children can enjoy reading.
In addition to the "Peekaboo" playroom for babies, there are also nursing rooms and baby food areas, so you can relax even if you have small children with you.
There are plenty of exhibits and workshops that will excite adults as well, so the whole family can enjoy it.
Location: 2-1-7 Ogimachi, Kita-ku, Osaka Prefecture Osaka City Kita Ward
Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:15 PM)
Official website: https://www.kidsplaza.or.jp/
10. Bornelund Play World Grand Front Osaka Store (Kita- Kita Ward , Osaka City )
BorneLund Play World is an indoor playground where children can play and move their bodies to their heart's content, regardless of the weather.
You can try out various games with "play leaders," who are play professionals and childcare supporters.
There's a dedicated baby zone, so it's safe and easy to use even for infants as young as zero years old. It's located inside Grand Front Osaka , making it easily accessible.
Location: 3-1 Ofuka-cho, Kita Ward , Osaka City Osaka Prefecture , Osaka Prefecture, Grand Front Osaka Building 3F
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Last entry 6:30 PM)
Official website: https://kidokid.bornelund.co.jp/grandfront-osaka/
11. Children's Book Forest Nakanoshima Island ( Kita Ward , Osaka City )
This children's library was designed by Osaka -born architect Tadao Ando. It mainly features picture books and children's literature, and the reading space is spacious.
This open space, filled with plenty of natural light, is perfect for parents and children to relax and enjoy reading together. It's also a great place to spend a quiet day on a rainy day.
Depending on the time of year, day of the week, and time of day, you may be able to enter without a reservation, but to guarantee entry, we recommend making a reservation online in advance.
Location: Nakanoshima Island , Kita Ward , Osaka City Prefecture
Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Official website: https://kodomohonnomori.osaka/
12. Mint Headquarters ( Kita Ward , Osaka City )
This facility manufactures Japanese currency, and in addition to the factory, you can also tour the mint museum.
Seeing the actual coin manufacturing process up close is sure to pique the intellectual curiosity of both children and adults.
Admission to the factory is free, but reservations are required through the factory tour reservation website. Reservations are accepted from 9:00 AM on the third Tuesday of the month preceding your desired visit date until 5:00 PM the day before.
Location: 1-1-79 Tenma, Osaka Prefecture -ku , Osaka City Kita Ward
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 4:45 PM (Last entry 4:00 PM) *Reservations required for tours Official website: https://www.mint.go.jp/
13. Tsutenkaku Tower ( Naniwa Ward , Osaka City )
This observation tower is practically a symbol of Osaka. From the observation deck, located approximately 100 meters above ground, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Osaka .
On the 5th floor, the Golden Observation Deck is home to the lucky god "Billiken," and you can even walk around the outer perimeter of the rooftop of the intermediate observation deck wearing a harness (safety rope), making it a thrilling and exciting must-see tourist spot.
There are also many gourmet spots in the Shinsekai area, so it's recommended to stop by between sightseeing.
Location: 1-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (for the general observation deck)
Official website: https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/
14. Sakai Big Bang (Minami Minami Ward , Sakai City )
The Sakai Big Bang, with its eye-catching exterior designed to resemble a landed spaceship, was renovated in April 2021.
This facility is packed with fun and learning opportunities, including a giant jungle gym called "Playground Tower," as well as a safe "Baby Plaza" and "Picture Book Plaza" for young children.
Since it's an indoor facility, you can exercise to your heart's content regardless of the weather.
Address: 1-9-1 Chayamadai, Minami-ku , Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture Minami Ward
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
Official website: https://www.bigbang-sakai.jp/
15. Harvest Hill (Minami Minami Ward , Sakai City )
This experiential agricultural park offers opportunities to interact with animals and enjoy craft activities amidst vast natural surroundings.
In addition to feeding alpacas and sheep, the park offers plenty of activities popular with children, including Japan's largest grass sledding course (40 meters long with a maximum slope of 20 degrees), go-karts, and trampolines.
This is a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy a picnic-like atmosphere.
Address: 2405-1 Hachigamineji, Minami Minami Ward , Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM) *Hours may vary depending on the season, so please check the official website. Official website: https://farm.or.jp/
16. Expo Commemoration Park ( Suita City)
A vast park developed on the site of the 1970 Osaka World Expo (Japan World Exposition).
With its iconic "Tower of the Sun" and a nature and cultural park where you can enjoy flowers of all seasons, it's a great place for families to relax and have fun.
With plenty of play equipment for children, including a Tarzan rope swing that children as young as 5 can try, and a trampoline that children as young as 3 can enjoy, you can have fun all day long.
Location: Senri Expo Park, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture. Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
Official website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/
17. NIFREL, a living museum ( Suita City )
A new kind of museum based on the concept of "connecting with your senses." The exhibition theme is diversity.
In each zone, which is divided into categories such as "Color (diversity of colors)," "Skill (diversity of behavior)," and "Hiding (diversity of mimicry)," you can observe the ecology of living creatures up close.
The diverse and unique lifestyles of various creatures are likely to foster a sense of mutual respect and kindness.
Location: NIFREL, EXPOCITY, 2-1 Senri Banpaku Suita City , Osaka Prefecture. Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM *Hours may vary depending on the season, please check the official website. Official Website: https://www.nifrel.jp/
18. Osaka Wheel ( Suita City )
This giant Ferris wheel boasts the tallest height in Japan (approximately 123m), and one rotation takes about 18 minutes.
All gondolas are fully transparent, air-conditioned, and stroller-friendly, offering many features you won't find anywhere else.
They also host a variety of hands-on events, offering many ways to have fun. Bringing your own food and drinks is permitted, so it's a safe and convenient option for families with children.
Furthermore, "Nifrel, the Living Museum" and "Osaka Wheel" are located within Expo Commemoration Park, making them ideal for a leisurely day trip.
Location: OSAKA WHEEL, EXPOCITY, 2-1 Senri Expo Park, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM *Hours may vary depending on the day, so please check the official website. Official website: https://osaka-wheel.com/
19. Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda(Ikeda City)
This interactive museum is located in Ikeda City , the birthplace of instant ramen. Its "My Cup Noodles Factory," where visitors can create their own original cup noodles, is particularly popular.
There's also an exhibit where you can learn about the history of instant ramen, making it a fun and educational experience for parents and children alike.
Location: 8-25 Masumi-cho , Ikeda City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Last entry 3:30 PM)
Official website: https://www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/ja/
20. World Ranch (Kanan-cho, Kanan Town )
Opened in 1989 and renovated in 2013 and 2016, this farm is based on the concept of interacting with animals.
You can interact with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, miniature pigs, sheep, and goats.
The entire farm is home to approximately 1,500 animals of about 140 different species, which is sure to delight any animal-loving child.
In addition to various experiences such as horseback riding, pony rides, and cow milking, there is also a kids' play area with playground equipment, so you can enjoy a full day of fun.
Location: 1456-2 Shiraki, Kanan-cho, Kanan Town gun, Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Spring to Autumn), 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Autumn to Winter)
Official website: http://www.worldranch.co.jp/
21. Hirakata Park ( Hirakata City )
It is Japan's oldest amusement park, affectionately known as "Hirapa."
We offer a wide variety of attractions, from those for young children to thrill rides.
In the baby room, you can freely use diaper changing stations, a hot water dispenser for preparing formula, and a nursing room. In addition, stroller rentals, a lost and found center, and a first-aid room are available, so you can enjoy your visit with peace of mind.
Location: 1-1 Hirakata Town , Hirakata City Osaka Prefecture
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM *Hours may vary depending on the day, so please check the official website. Official website: https://www.hirakatapark.co.jp/
Enjoy sightseeing in Osaka with your children!
Osaka has many tourist attractions where children can have a great time, including the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and Universal Studios Japan.
All of the facilities introduced here are places that families of all ages, from adults to children, can enjoy. Many of them are indoor facilities, making them flexible options even during times when it's difficult to plan outings, such as the rainy season or the scorching heat of summer.
Many facilities offer services that are considerate of families with children, so you can enjoy going out with peace of mind even if you have a small child who needs to be moved around in a stroller or who needs breastfeeding or diaper changes.
For those looking for a base for sightseeing, we recommend the Oriental Hotel Universal City and the Namba Oriental Hotel . Both are conveniently located near Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and the Dotonbori area, and are equipped with facilities that make for a comfortable stay, even for families with children.
After enjoying a full day of sightseeing in Osaka, relax at your hotel and spend some time reminiscing with your family.
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