More than just the Expo Recommended Sightseeing Spots to Visit While Visiting Osaka/Kansai Expo 2025

15th April 2025

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Sightseeing Spots
More than just the Expo Recommended Sightseeing Spots to Visit While Visiting Osaka/Kansai Expo 2025

If you are planning to visit Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 (Yumeshima), be sure to enjoy Osaka's unique attractions, cuisine, and experiences. We have compiled a list of recommended sightseeing spots** during the Expo that can be reached within an hour of the venue!

1. Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

! USJ OsakaUniversal Studios Japan (Source: Wikipedia)

  • World-famous theme park with Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, Minions, etc.
  • One stop from Sakurajima Station on the JR Yumesaki Line to Yumeshima
  • Advance ticket reservation is recommended.
  • An estimate of time required: 5-7 hours (half a day to a full day)

https://www.usj.co.jp/e/

---

2. Dotonbori and Namba area

! DotonboriDotonbori (Source: Wikipedia)

  • A treasure trove of Osaka gourmet foods including takoyaki, okonomiyaki, ramen, etc.
  • Famous Glico signboard & scenery along the Dotonbori River
  • Plenty of shopping and street performances
  • About 35-40 minutes from Yumeshima (Osaka Metro)
  • About time required: 2 to 3 hours (more if shopping is included)

--- Time estimate: 2 to 3 hours (more if you do shopping)

3. Osaka Castle

! Osaka CastleOsaka Castle (Source: Wikipedia)

  • Historical castle and museum built in the 16th century.
  • Famous for its cherry blossoms (March-April)
  • Great for a walk around the outer moat and gardens.
  • About 35 minutes from Yumeshima (via metro)
  • About time required: 1.5 to 2 hours

---1.5 to 2 hours

4. Umeda Sky Building & Osaka Station area

  • 360-degree panoramic view from the Sky Garden Observation Deck
  • HEP FIVE, Grand Front Osaka, Yodobashi Camera and other huge shopping areas
  • About 30-35 minutes from Yumeshima
  • About time required: 1.5 to 3 hours

--- Total time required: 1.5 to 3 hours

5. Kuromon Market

  • A gourmet paradise, also known as "Osaka's kitchen
  • Also great for looking for souvenirs!
  • About 30-35 minutes from Yumeshima (Metro)
  • About time required: 1 to 1.5 hours (perfect for lunch and snacks)

--- Time estimate: 1 to 1.5 hours (good for lunch and snacks)

6. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel & Kaiyukan

! Kaiyukan AquariumKaiyukan (Source: Wikipedia)

  • Meet whale sharks and jellyfish at one of the world's largest aquariums.
  • A Ferris wheel offers a spectacular view of Osaka Bay.
  • You can also enjoy cruises and seaside cafes.
  • About 15 minutes from Yumeshima (Chuo Line)
  • Estimated time required: 2 to 3 hours

--- **About 15 minutes from Yumeshima (Chuo Line)

Official Guidebook

Osaka Official Tourist Information Guidebook


Advice for Expo + Tourism

  • Use ICOCA Card and Osaka Round Trip Pass for convenient transportation and discounts!
  • It is convenient to leave your luggage in lockers at stations such as Namba and Umeda.
  • Visit popular spots early in the morning or late in the evening.
  • Many facilities offer multilingual services (English, Chinese, Korean, etc.)

---Many facilities have multilingual service (English, Chinese, Korean, etc.)

Thrilling attractions, historic sites, and Osaka's unique cuisine. ** Enjoy sightseeing in Osaka before or after the Expo and make the best of it! **