12 Things to Do in Osaka with Kids – 2025 Guide

Taxis – Convenient but Expensive

Taxis in Osaka are reliable, clean, and safe, but they’re also one of the most expensive ways to get around. A short 3 km ride will set you back around ¥1,200–¥1,500 ($8–$10 USD), and fares increase at night. While taxis are useful for late-night travel or when kids are exhausted, most families will find the subway a much better option.

Subways – Cheap, Efficient & Family-Friendly

Osaka’s subway system is one of the best ways to get around with kids. Trains are frequent, stations are well signposted in English, and you can reach most major attractions easily. Pay at the ticket machines before you go through the gate. You need to use the map above the ticket machine to work out the price you need to pay (prices are done on a zone type of system). Select the correct price category on the vending machine (they have an English option so this is easy) – simply pay the correct amount for your destination, rather than selecting the station. As long as you have paid enough the ticket will be valid to your destination.

Fare prices: Adults pay ¥180–¥400 ($1.20–$2.70 USD) per ride, depending on the distance, while kids (ages 6–12) pay half price. Children under 6 travel for free!

Most subway stations have elevators (but not all!), so if you’re bringing a stroller, it’s worth checking station maps in advance. Some lines can get very crowded during rush hours (7:30–9:30 AM & 5:00–7:00 PM), so try to travel outside these times if possible.

3. Explore Kuromon Market

Food is one of the best parts of Osaka, and Kuromon Ichiba Market is the place to introduce kids to some of the freshest (and tastiest) street food in the city. This covered market street is over 100 years old and is packed with fresh seafood, sizzling barbecue meats, and traditional Japanese snacks.

What to Eat

• Giant grilled oysters (served with a squeeze of lemon).
• Barbecued Wagyu beef skewers (juicy and full of flavor).
• Fresh sushi & sashimi (including tuna, salmon, and even sea urchin for the adventurous).
• Spider crab—expensive, but a rare treat!
• Takoyaki—Osaka’s famous octopus balls, crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A little touristy? Yes, it is—and prices are higher than other food markets. But the quality is fantastic.
• Is it kid-friendly? It depends on your kids! It’s a busy, stimulating environment, so younger kids might get overwhelmed. But there are seating areas where you can take a break.
• Closing Time: Most stalls start winding down by 5:00 PM, so visit earlier in the day.
• Great for Rainy Days: Since most of the market is covered, it’s a perfect activity if the weather isn’t great.

Top Tip: Instead of booking an expensive food tour, just set a budget and let everyone pick a few dishes to try—it’s more fun, and you get to sample exactly what appeals to you!

4. Cruise the Dotonbori River

Exploring Osaka from the water offers a unique perspective, and the Tombori River Cruise is a fantastic way to experience the vibrant Dotonbori area. This 20-minute cruise takes you along the Dotonbori River, providing up-close views of iconic landmarks, including the famous Glico Running Man sign and the bustling streets lined with neon lights.​

• Location: The ticket office is conveniently located next to the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, making it easy to combine both activities.​
• Operating Hours: The ticket office opens at 10:00 AM, with the first cruise departing at 11:00 AM and the last at 9:10 PM. Boats depart every 10 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long.​
• Tickets: It’s best to purchase tickets in advance at the ticket office to secure your preferred time slot.​

Is it worth it? Absolutely! The Tombori River Cruise offers a relaxing break from walking and a fun way to see the city from a different angle. Kids will love the novelty of being on the water, and parents can enjoy the scenic views and photo opportunities.​

5. Explore Osaka Castle and Its Surrounding Park

A visit to Osaka Castle is like stepping back in time, offering both historical insights and natural beauty. The castle is surrounded by a large with woodland trails, cherry blossom trees, lakes, ponds, and even a playground for kids.​

• The Park: Entry to the Osaka Castle Park is free, and you can explore the entire area, walking up to the outer walls of the castle without purchasing a ticket. The park’s size means it’s easy to lose your way, so having a map or a navigation app is advisable.​ Don’t miss the Kids Play Park (near Morinomiya entrance – close to the subway station)
• The Castle: To enter the main tower of Osaka Castle, you’ll need to purchase a ticket at the entrance. Be prepared for potential queues, especially on weekends; a 45-minute wait isn’t uncommon on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. Inside, you’ll find museum exhibits detailing the castle’s history, and at the top, an observation deck offers panoramic views of Osaka.​ The castle costs 600 yen for adults and free for kids (up to 15 years old). 

Top Tip: If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season (late March to early April), the park becomes a breathtaking sea of pink and white blossoms. It is acceptable to stroll of the trails and explore some of the woodland areas – locals relax and enjoy picnics in these lovely areas. 

6. Playville by Børnelund at Osaka Castle Park

This creative and innovative play space is situated in Osaka Castle Park. Playville by Børnelund is a fantastic play facility offering a blend of indoor and outdoor activities designed to stimulate children’s creativity and physical abilities. It’s an excellent spot for families – especially if you have younger kids. It is a little pricy – so you may want to skip this depending on your budget.

• Activities: The facility caters to children aged 6 months to 12 years and includes:​
  • Indoor Play: Areas for active physical play, imaginative play zones, and craft stations where kids can engage in painting and other creative activities.
  • Outdoor Play: Spaces that encourage interaction with nature, including sandboxes, water play areas, and climbing structures.​
• Admission Fees:
  • Weekdays: Children: 900 yen for the first 30 minutes, plus 200 yen for each additional 10 minutes. Adults: 700 yen.​
  • Weekends and Holidays: Children: 1,100 yen for the first 30 minutes, plus 200 yen for each additional 10 minutes. Adults: 700 yen.​
  • 1-Day Pass: Children: 2,700 yen on weekdays, 3,500 yen on weekends and holidays. Adults: 700 yen.​
• Operating Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission at 5:30 PM. Note that hours may extend during the summer season.​
• Access: A 5-minute walk from Morinomiya Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line, Subway Chuo Line, and Subway Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line.​

Top Tip: Food and drinks aren’t allowed inside the play areas, but you can exit and re-enter freely with a day pass. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the park.​

7. Visit the Tsutenkaku Tower in Shinsekai (the Osaka TV tower)

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on Tsuntenkaku Tower

For a blend of nostalgia, city lights and panoramic views check out Tsutenkaku Tower (also known as the Osaka TV tower). Often dubbed the “Eiffel Tower of Osaka,” this is one of Osaka’s main iconic landmarks – and definitely a great spot for a some shameless selfies. It has a slide and lots of other fun things to see and do in the area. Not too far from Tennoji Park – you could visit both in the same day.

• Observation Decks:
  • Indoor Deck: Offers expansive city views.​
  • Outdoor Deck: Provides an open-air experience, enhancing the viewing pleasure.​
• Hours:
  • Ticket Desk: Closes at 7:30 PM.​
  • Observation Deck: Closes at 8:00 PM.​
• Admission:
  • Observation Deck: 1,000 yen for adults; 500 yen for children aged 5–15; children under 5 enter free.​
  • Slide: 1,000 yen for adults; 500 yen for children. Minimum age for the slide is 5 years old.​

Top Tip: After your tower visit, explore the surrounding Shinsekai streets – there are plenty of small shops, cafes and restaurants. 

8. Fish for your supper at Zauo Fishing Restaurant

For a very unique and fun dining experience, we highly recommend a meal at the Zauo Fishing Restaurant (close to the Dotonbori walking street). At this restaurant, you can literally fish for your dinner and then tuck into the freshest fish you have ever eaten. This one really is a lot of fun for kids. To be honest we were a little nervous bringing two very energetic and excited boys to a Japanese restaurant. But we were pleasantly relieved to find the staff very welcoming and celebratory – so we all had an awesome time and some super tasty food. ALSO – and this is surprising too, it is actually not that expensive. Expect to pay around $5 – $20 per person depending how much you order, and of course wha you order. 

• How It Works:
  • Service Charge: A standard fee of 418 yen per adult (over 18 years old) secures a 2-hour table reservation.​
  • Fishing:
    • Rod and Bait: Provided at no extra cost.
    • Catch: Once you hook a fish, place it in a net and inform the staff. A celebratory drumroll accompanies your success.
    • Fish Corner: Ideal for kids, this area offers smaller, more affordable catches like horse mackerel (around 1,000 yen) and shrimp (approximately 400 yen), making it easier and more economical.
• Dining:
  • Preparation: Choose how you’d like your catch prepared—sashimi, grilled, or tempura.​
  • Menu Options: For those who prefer not to fish, the menu includes items like natto bean sushi wraps (around 200 yen) and potato wedges (480 yen).​

9. Ascend the Umeda Sky Building

Plan you visit to the Umeda Sky Building with our FULL and in depth guide to Umeda

For a breathtaking panoramic view of Osaka, the Umeda Sky Building is a destination that shouldn’t be missed. This architectural marvel offers an experience that’s both exhilarating and memorable for the whole family.​ Begin by taking the elevator to the 35th floor. Be prepared for a short 10-minute wait during peak times, but the ride offers stunning city views that make it worthwhile.​ From the 35th floor, hop on the sky escalator leading to the 39th floor. This unique escalator traverses the building’s atrium – it is literally an escalator bridge suspended at dizzying heights. 

• 39th Floor Amenities:
  • Ticket Counter: Here, you can purchase tickets to the Kuchu Teien Observatory, an open-air viewing deck atop the building. Admission is 2,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children
  • Facilities: The floor also houses a gift shop, restrooms, a bar, and restaurants, making it convenient to relax and refresh.​
• Observatory Details:
  • Operating Hours: The observatory is open from 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM, with the last entry at 10:00 PM. Experiencing the cityscape both during the day and illuminated at night offers two distinct perspectives.​

Top Tip: Visiting during sunset provides a mesmerizing transition as the city lights begin to sparkle. 

10. Explore Tennoji Park

This one is something of a hidden gem – not because it is actually hidden – but because many people miss this park. Situated to the south of Osaka city – it may not be at the top of your itinerary. BUT if you’re visiting Osaka with kids and you’re looking for some outdoor space – away from roads and buildings – then this is a very good options. Don’t miss the lake which is home to various species, including cormorants, cranes, large carp, terrapins, and ducks, and more. There are also plenty of other things to do in the park: ​

• Attractions:
  • Tennoji Zoo: Home to diverse animal species, the zoo provides an educational experience for children and adults alike.​
  • Play Areas: Located on the southeast side of the park, these zones are perfect for children to expend some energy.​ Don’t miss the unique Panza Play Space (prices range from 2000 – 3,000 yen depending on your choice of experience)
  • Keitakuen Garden: A traditional Japanese garden – beautiful and well kept as you would expect! 
  • Dining Options: Within the park, you’ll find a coffee shop, various cafés, restaurants, and even a FamilyMart convenience store for quick snacks.​
  • Accessibility: The park is easily accessible via the Tennoji Subway Station, making it convenient for families.​

11. Play with some cute animals at Rock Star Animal Café

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE to the Rock Star Animal Cafe

Ok, this one was probably one of the top experiences for our boys. Unique, fun and super cute! If you’re in Osaka there are several fun themed cafes. You can also find a few animal cafes around. We had a lot of fun at the Rock Star Animal Café. They have an impressive range of cute critters and the staff are very attentive and helpful (why are we surprised!? This is Japan!) If you’re travelling Osaka with little animal lovers, this cafe needs to be high on your list. The animals are well cared for – assuming you’re ok with them being kept as pets rather than outdoor spaces. You do need to be prepared for your visit, here are a few details:

• How It Works:
  • Entrance Fee: A 1,000 yen membership fee per person is required upon your first visit. This grants you a membership card, allowing free entry on subsequent visits.​
  • Orders: Each guest is required to make at least one order, with drinks ranging from 1,000 to 1,100 yen. Children aged 3 and older are subject to the same fees.​
• Animal Interaction:
  • Variety: Choose from a selection of animals, including gerbils, hedgehogs, hamsters, ferrets, rabbits, sugar gliders, chinchillas, squirrels, meerkats, parrots, chickens, ducks, and African dormice.​
  • Interaction: You can switch animals as many times as you like within your 2-hour time limit, ensuring a diverse experience.​
  • Animal Food: For an additional 300 yen, you can purchase food to feed the animals, enhancing the interaction.​
• Additional Information:
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.​
  • Location: Situated on Nansan Dori Avenue, it’s just a 5-minute walk from Namba Station, making it easily accessible.​
  • Payment: Both cash and card payments are accepted.

Top Tip: If you plan to return, keep your membership card to waive the entrance fee on future visits. Also, visiting during weekday afternoons can provide a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.​

12 Day Trip to Nara from Osaka

If you’ve got an extra day in your Osaka itinerary, Nara is an absolute must. It’s one of the most historically significant cities in Japan, home to ancient temples, free-roaming deer, and stunning gardens. And the best part? It’s an easy and affordable day trip—just 45 minutes from central Osaka. Before you read on, if you’re visiting with young kids – supervise them carefully around the deer. They can buck and kick younger children and this can be very dangerous. So consider the age and temperament of your kids before you plan this trip. Supervise young kids carefully and make sure they stay a safe distance from the deer.

Getting to Nara from Osaka

There are two main train options, depending on where you’re staying:

• Kintetsu Railway: From Osaka-Namba Station, you can take the Kintetsu Limited Express to Kintetsu Nara Station in just 39 minutes (1,070 yen one way). This station is closer to Nara Park, making it a more convenient choice.
• JR Yamatoji Line: If you’re near Osaka Station, hop on the JR Yamatoji Rapid Service to JR Nara Station. It takes about 50 minutes and costs 800 yen one way.

Trains run frequently throughout the day, so no need to book in advance. Once you arrive, everything is within walking distance. As soon as you step off the train, you’ll notice that Nara feels much quieter than Osaka—the pace is slower, the streets are wider, and the air is fresher. But don’t let the calm fool you—there’s plenty to do!

Meet the Deer in Nara Park

You really can’t visit Nara without meeting the famous deer. Over 1,000 deer roam freely in Nara Park, and they’ve become incredibly accustomed to people. You’ll find vendors selling shika senbei (deer crackers) for 200 yen—and yes, the deer know exactly what those little paper-wrapped bundles mean. Some will bow politely before taking a cracker, while others will try to nudge you for more. 

If you need a quiet break, Isuien Garden is perfect. It’s beautifully landscaped with traditional tea houses, ponds, and stone pathways—a great spot to unwind after exploring. Entry is 900 yen, which includes admission to the Neiraku Art Museum next door.

For food, you have plenty of options. If you’re after a quick bite, grab some mochi from Nakatanidou—this shop is famous for its dramatic, high-speed mochi pounding (seriously, it’s a performance in itself!). If you prefer a sit-down meal, head to Higashimuki Shopping Street, just near Kintetsu Nara Station, where you’ll find plenty of small restaurants serving local specialties like kakinoha-zushi (pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) and somen noodles.