Destination guide

One of Japan's most dynamic destinations

Japan's third largest city is a vibrant hub of colourful neon lights, mouth-watering food, and a mind-boggling array of things to do and see. This dynamic metropolis bursts with a beautiful blend of Japanese history and contemporary culture, and you can't beat the nightlife on these busy streets. And it's scenic too: hundreds of bridges cross over the city's rivers and canals, and the Osaka Bay harbour houses all sorts of sights and entertainment. Whether you book Osaka vacation rentals in the city centre or its surrounding suburbs, you'll be immersed in a lively scene of interesting people, places and things.

Things to do

Castles, crazy rides and a whole lotta culture

The ornate Osaka Castle on the hilltop is the inevitable must-see here. One of Japan's most iconic landmarks, this impressive 16th-century palace and museum also has a moat and a park with beautiful cherry and plum trees. Got kids in your travel party? Definitely spend an exhilarating day at Universal Studios theme park, and check out one of the world's largest marine life displays at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Or head up to the observation deck at the Tsutenkaku tower to get a glimpse of the whole glimmering city. The temple Shitenno-ji, built in 563, is said to be one of Japan's first Buddhist shrines.

Activities

The nightlife of Osaka will rock-a your socks off

In the middle of Osaka, the Dotonbori district is a popular place to shop your heart out, and catch some live entertainment like the classic Japanese dance-drama style known as Kabuki, and, of course, enjoy Osaka's delicious food. A huge part of the city's culture is its cuisine, so while you're here, sample some okonomiyaki – savory pancake – and some kushikatsu, because who doesn't love deep-fried meat or veggies on a stick? And night owls, get ready for ragin' nights. There are tons of 'gaijin' pubs that cater to foreign travellers, as well as discos to bring your dancing shoes too.

Weather

Like Osaka itself, its seasons have lots of variety

Osaka's climate offers 4 distinctive seasons, with the 'tsuyu' or rainy season happening between March and June. June is when the hot and humid summer weather starts rolling in, with August highs sometimes hitting the 30s. September and October are perfect times to book Osaka vacation rentals, as it's still hot, but the cool autumn air cuts the humidity. December and January temps fall in the upper single digits and, very rarely, snow falls and quickly dissolves.

Natural highlights

City slickers, you'll adore this urban escape

Osaka's a city of stupendous sprawl that rests on mostly flat, low-elevation land. Its massive centre is split into north and south sections, known as Kita and Minami respectively. Skyscrapers, malls, offices and restaurants dominate this area, and to the north, east and south, the urban areas branch out for many kilometres, and the city's west side opens up to Osaka Bay, which is a scenic and popular area for Osaka vacation rentals. While you won't find many natural wildlife habitats in such a large city, there are zoos, wildlife parks and the aquarium where you can take in nature.

How to get there

Transport options to and around Osaka

Fly into Osaka (ITM-Itami), the closest airport, located 6.9 mi (11.2 km) from the city centre. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Kobe (UKB), which is 15.8 mi (25.4 km) away.

If you're travelling by train, Osaka Umeda Station, Osaka Station and Osaka Nakatsu Station are the main stations that serve the city. It's easy to get around Osaka by catching a ride on the metro at Higashi-Umeda Station, Umeda Station or Nishi-Umieda Station.

Where to stay near Osaka?

Our 2019 accommodation listings offer a large selection of 373 holiday rentals near Osaka. From 203 Condos/Apartments to 151 Houses, find unique holiday homes for you to enjoy a memorable stay with your family and friends. The best place to stay near Osaka for a long holiday or a weekend break is on HomeAway.

What is the best area to stay when travelling to Osaka?

Whether you are travelling solo or with family and friends, here are the areas with the largest selection of holiday rentals for a long holiday or just a weekend break in Osaka:

  • Naniwa Ward: 159 holiday homes
  • Tennoji: 132 holiday homes
  • Chuo Ward: 151 holiday homes
  • Minami: 215 holiday homes
  • Namba: 176 holiday homes

For other neighbourhoods, please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday homes available.

What are the most popular points of interest and landmarks to stay near when travelling to Osaka?

HomeAway offers a large selection of holiday homes near great places in Osaka. From HomeAway travellers, the most popular points of interest to stay near are:

  • Osaka Namba Station: 378 holiday rentals
  • Osaka Castle: 376 holiday rentals
  • Osaka Station City: 378 holiday rentals
  • Universal Studios Japan®: 374 holiday rentals
  • Shin-Osaka Station: 377 holiday rentals

But there are many other points of interest around Osaka listed on HomeAway where you can find your place to stay. Please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday rentals available near the point of interest of your choice.

Can I rent Condos/Apartments in Osaka?

Yes, of course. HomeAway offers 203 Condos/Apartments in Osaka. Our other popular types of Osaka holiday rentals include:

  • Houses: 151 holiday houses
  • Studios: 197 holiday houses
  • Guest houses: 5 holiday houses

But you can also enjoy a great stay in one of our other holiday rentals including Bed & breakfasts and more.

Can I find a holiday accommodation with internet/wifi in Osaka?

Yes, you can select your preferred holiday accommodation with internet/wifi among our 311 holiday homes with internet/wifi available in Osaka. Please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday rentals available.

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