Osaka is a vibrant city in Japan with a rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and a lively entertainment scene. Many free activities in Osaka offer a great way to experience the city without spending a lot of money. One of the best free things to do in Osaka is to visit Osaka Castle Park. Exploring the city’s many temples and shrines is another great free activity in Osaka.
Historical Landmarks
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Osaka and is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. The castle was built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a famous Japanese warrior, and was later destroyed and rebuilt several times. Today, the castle is a museum that showcases the history of Osaka and its rulers. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including the top floor, which offers stunning views of the city. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park, which is perfect for a stroll.
Shitennoji Temple
Shitennoji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Japan and is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. The temple was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, who is credited with introducing Buddhism to Japan.
The temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries and today, it is a beautiful complex of buildings and gardens. Visitors can explore the temple’s many halls, pagodas, and shrines, and learn about the history of Buddhism in Japan. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful park, which is perfect for a peaceful walk.
Public Parks and Nature
Osaka Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Osaka Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a vast park located in the northeast of Osaka City. The park was built to commemorate the Japan World Exposition held in 1970. The park is home to various attractions, including the Japanese Garden, Natural and Cultural Gardens, and the Tower of the Sun. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the park and appreciate the beautiful scenery, including the seasonal flowers and foliage. The park is also equipped with various facilities, including a playground, cycling course, and BBQ area, making it an ideal destination for families.
Nakanoshima Park
Nakanoshima Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Osaka City. The park is situated on an island between the Dojima and Tosabori Rivers. The park is home to various attractions, including the Nakanoshima Library, which is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, and the Osaka City Central Public Hall, which is a designated National Important Cultural Property.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the park and take in the beautiful scenery, including the lush greenery and the fountains. The park is an ideal destination for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.
Museums and Galleries
National Museum of Art
The National Museum of Art in Osaka is a must-visit for art lovers. It features a collection of over 8,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations from both Japanese and international artists. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Yayoi Kusama. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the works of contemporary artists.
Osaka Science Museum
The Osaka Science Museum is a great place to learn about science in a fun and interactive way. The museum has four floors of exhibits, including a planetarium and a science lab where visitors can conduct experiments. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from astronomy and physics to biology and chemistry. One of the highlights of the museum is the giant globe that displays the Earth’s surface in stunning detail.
Both of these museums offer free admission on certain days of the month, so be sure to check their websites for details. Visiting these museums is a great way to spend a day in Osaka without spending any money.
Street Exploration
Osaka is a city that is best explored on foot, and there are many free streets to explore. Here are two popular streets that are worth checking out:
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a famous street in Osaka, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and mouth-watering food. The street boasts an array of restaurants, bars, and shops, and it becomes especially lively at night when the neon lights illuminate the area. Visitors can take a peaceful stroll along the canal and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The Glico Running Man sign and the Kani Doraku crab restaurant are some of the popular attractions in Dotonbori.
Shinsekai
Shinsekai is a retro neighbourhood that was built in the early 1900s. The area has a unique atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The streets are lined with old-fashioned shops and restaurants, and many street vendors are selling traditional Japanese snacks. The Tsutenkaku Tower is a popular attraction in Shinsekai, offering a great view of the city from the top. Visitors can also try their luck at one of the many pachinko parlours in the area.
Cultural Experiences
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and is dedicated to the gods of the sea. The shrine is known for its unique architecture, which includes curved roofs and vermillion-colored pillars. Visitors can explore the grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, which is perfect for meditation and reflection. The shrine is also home to many festivals throughout the year, including the Sumiyoshi Festival in July, which features traditional music and dance performances.
Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum
The Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum is dedicated to ukiyo-e, a traditional Japanese art form that originated in Osaka. Visitors can see a wide range of ukiyo-e prints, including works by famous artists such as Hiroshige and Hokusai. The museum also offers workshops where visitors can learn how to create their ukiyo-e prints. The museum is located in the heart of Osaka and is easily accessible by public transportation.
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Seasonal Events
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Osaka is a great place to enjoy cherry blossom viewing during the spring season. The blooming period usually starts from late March to early April, and the city is filled with beautiful pink and white cherry blossom trees. One of the best places to see the cherry blossoms is at Osaka Castle Park. The park has over 4,000 cherry blossom trees, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing picnic under the trees while admiring the beautiful scenery.
Other popular spots for cherry blossom viewing in Osaka include the Kema Sakuranomiya Park, which has over 5,000 cherry blossom trees along the Okawa River, and the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, which has over 5,500 cherry blossom trees of different varieties.
Tenjin Matsuri
Tenjin Matsuri is one of the biggest festivals in Osaka, held annually on July 24th and 25th. The festival is dedicated to the deity of learning, Sugawara no Michizane, and features a grand procession of portable shrines and boats on the Okawa River. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance performances, and fireworks displays during the festival.
The festival has a long history, dating back over 1,000 years, and is considered one of the three major festivals in Japan. It attracts millions of visitors every year, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting Osaka in the summer.
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