7 nightlife spots in Osaka

Ōsaka is an internationally famous city, and is the second largest city in Japan after Tōkyō. It is also popular among tourists from abroad, and there are many sightseeing spots in Ōsaka city that can be enjoyed day and night.
In this article, we will introduce 7 must-visit nightlife spots where you can especially enjoy Ōsaka at night.

Highlights and characteristics of Ōsaka at night

Ōsaka is located in the Kansai region, where popular tourist destinations such as Kyōto, Nara, and Kōbe are concentrated. It developed as a metropolis from an early stage, and by the 17th century it had already become one of Japan’s central cities.
Unlike Kyōto and Nara, which are tourist destinations that make use of historical heritage such as shrines and temples, Ōsaka is characterized by its many modern spots that take advantage of the urban area.

The appeal of Ōsaka’s nightlife spots is that you can enjoy things unique to the city, such as night views from skyscrapers and world-famous theme parks.

Nightlife spots in Ōsaka

Recommended #1: Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Universal Studios Japan (commonly known as USJ) is a large theme park that represents Japan along with Tokyo Disneyland. In addition to attractions themed after Hollywood movies, attractions themed after the world of Nintendō games such as Super Mario are very popular.

Evening open hours vary depending on the time of year and day of the week, but on Saturdays and Sundays they may be open until 22:00. It is lit up at night, so you can enjoy a different charm than during the day. In particular, the illuminated Hogwarts Castle in the Harry Potter area is a fantastic and very popular spot.
It is recommended not only for couples but also for friends and families. Therefore, it is a must-see tourist spot when you visit Ōsaka.

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Recommended #2: Harukas 300

Harukas 300 is an observation deck located on the 58th to 60th floors of Abeno Harukas, a 300m high-rise building. It is known as the second highest observation deck in Japan and is a must-see spot when sightseeing in Ōsaka. (The highest observation deck in Japan is Tōkyō Skytree)

It is known as one of the most scenic spots in Ōsaka, where you can enjoy a 360-degree night view. Therefore, it is a recommended spot for couples and families. Another nice point is that it’s open until 10pm at night.

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Recommended #3: Nakanoshima River Cruise / Tombori River Cruise

Nakanoshima River Cruise / Tonbori River Cruise is a cruise project operated by Ipponmatsu Kaiun. Although it varies depending on the season, it runs approximately from Friday to Sunday. Of course, there are night flights, so you can see Ōsaka’s town at night from the boat.

The Nakanoshima River Cruise is a course that takes you around Nakanoshima, the center of Ōsaka. You can see an area lined with modern buildings and skyscrapers.
The Tombori River Cruise is a course that takes you around Dōtonbori, Ōsaka’s representative downtown area. You can enjoy the lively atmosphere typical of a downtown area.

Both cruises take only about 20 minutes, so they can be enjoyed in your spare time. If there are empty seats, you can board the ship without making a reservation, but it is safer to make a reservation in advance online or by phone.

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Recommended #4: Tempōzan Ferris Wheel

Tempōzan Ferris Wheel is a ferris wheel located at the popular tourist spot, Tempōzan Harbor Village. In addition to the Tempōzan Ferris Wheel, Tempōzan Harbor Village also has Kaiyūkan, one of the world’s largest aquariums, and Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokochō, a food theme park that recreates the streets of Ōsaka from the past. It is a spot where you can enjoy the whole day.

Tempōzan Ferris Wheel has a diameter of 100m and a height of 112.5m, making it the world’s largest Ferris wheel at the time of its opening. Open hours are until 21:00, but depending on the season, it may be open until 22:00.
The night view of Ōsaka seen from the window is beautiful, but the ferris wheel itself is also famous for its illumination, which changes color depending on the next day’s weather forecast, such as red if it’s sunny and blue if it’s raining. This is a recommended date spot for couples.

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Recommended #5: OSAKA BAY TOWER Solaniwa Onsen

Solaniwa Onsen is a hot spring theme park located on the 2nd to 3rd floors of Osaka Bay Tower, adjacent to Bentenchō Station. Although it is located near the central area of Ōsaka city, it is a facility where you can enjoy natural hot springs. In addition to hot springs, there are also bedrock baths, saunas, and relaxation facilities.

Open hours are from 11:00 to 23:00, so you can enjoy it until late at night. The large public baths include a garden-view bath (Niwamiburo) overlooking the Japanese garden, an open-air bath, and a carbonated bath containing highly concentrated carbon dioxide.
This is a facility where you can enjoy Japanese-style hot springs while being in the city. If you’re tired from sightseeing, we recommend taking a refreshing dip in the hot springs.

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Recommended #6: Umeda Sky Building・Kūchū Teien Observatory

Kūchū Teien Observatory is an observation deck located on the roof of the Umeda Sky Building, which is 173 meters high. Umeda Sky Building was designed by a famous architect and is a building with a unique design.

The observation deck is open until 22:30 (last entry 22:00) and offers a panoramic view of Ōsaka’s night view. Additionally, on the 40th floor of the Kūchū Teien Observation, there is a cafe “cafe SKY40” that is open until 22:00, so you can relax and enjoy the view. It would be perfect for a couple’s date.

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Recommended #7: OWL OSAKA

OWL OSAKA is a nightclub located in Umeda, the center of Ōsaka. It is a top-class entertainment spot in western Japan, and even on weekdays, high-quality live performances by famous domestic and international DJs and artists are held. Therefore, it is a recommended spot for young people who want to enjoy Ōsaka at night in a stylish space.

At OWL OSAKA, ID check is carried out and you will need to present your passport or alien registration certificate. Due to alcohol being served, persons under 20 years of age are not permitted entry. On the other hand, it is precisely because of proper checks that you can enjoy with peace of mind.
Also, please note that there has a dress code policy, and you will not be allowed to enter in light clothing such as jerseys, sweats, tank tops, or with visible tattoos.

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