Osaka is Japan's second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo. It has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai Region for many centuries. With many top sights to see, it no wonder it’s a popular destination in Japan to visit. Be sure to check out the Sumiyoshi Taisha shine, Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Japan. To eat, plan a visit to Kuromon Market - a popular market street for seafood and produce. Osaka is famous for local dishes including Takoyaki (grilled octopus), okonomiyaki and udon. Osaka is known for world class shopping areas, onsens, traditional experiences, many museums and art galleries. There is plenty to explore in Osaka.
View our Osaka travel guide
Flights to Osaka (KIX)
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Osaka (Kansai) travel information
When to visit
The most popular time to visit Osaka is in spring (March and April) to view the famous cherry blossoms in full bloom. Some popular spots are the Kema Sakuranomiya Park and Osaka Castle. Temperatures range from 9°C to 19°C. Autumn (October and November) is also a good time to visit to experience the colours of the trees with pleasant temperatures. Summer (June to August) in Osaka is hot and humid, though there area beaches to cool off, festivals and fireworks to enjoy. Temperatures range from 23°C to 28°C during summer. If you plan to visit in winter (December to March) you’ll experience the amazing dazzling winter lights, Japanese New Year festivals or one of the many ski resorts. Temperatures average around 10°C.
Arrival information
What is the main airport called?
Kansai International Airport (KIX)Opens external site in a new window. It is the primary international airport in the Greater Osaka Area of Japan and the closest international airport to the cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe. It is located on an artificial island (Kankūjima) in the middle of Osaka Bay off the Honshu shore, 38 km (24 mi) southwest of Ōsaka Station.
Arriving in Osaka
The helpful staff at Osaka Airport will greet you when you land and assist you with your travel needs. Once you collect your bags from the arrivals area, there are various transport options available to get you on your way.
Getting into Osaka from Kansai International Airport
Getting into Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and surrounding areas from Kansai International Airport is easy, with various transport options available. The most direct way is to take the JR Haruka limited express train that connect Kansai Airport with Tennoji and Shin Osaka Station taking 50 minutes. The JR airport rapid train takes 70 minutes to Osaka Station or take the Nankai Railway to Namba Station, then take the subway to Osaka. There are direct buses from the airport to the city centre. Kansai Airport is located about 50 km outside of Osaka, so a taxi ride into the city centre of Osaka is very expensive and not recommended. A high-speed ferry connects Kansai Airport with Kobe Airport. A shuttle bus connects the airport terminal with the ferry pier. It’s possible to hire a car from the airport for sightseeing.
Getting around Osaka
The easiest way to travel around Osaka is by subway or train. Visiting the top Osaka attractions, you’re rarely far from a subway stop or a train station. There are other modes of transport too, including buses, taxis and even river cruises. Transport in Osaka is mainly by the subway system and the metro which is by far the best way of getting around with trains always on time. It’s best to buy a travel pass. Tram and the Umegle bus services are available to explore the city centre. Taxis are easy to hail and cycling is a great way to get around with many parks and cycle lanes. A river cruise through Osaka takes you past many points of interest in the city.
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Important Information
Disclaimer: ^ You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
Disclaimer: ++ Status Credits are earned on eligible Qantas, Jetstar, oneworld® member and oneworld connect® airlines only - see the Airline Earning Tables and Qantas Frequent Flyer program Terms and Conditions for details. Status Credits may not be earned on some fare types and booking classes.
+Meals, beverages, entertainment and offerings vary between flights and cabins. Alcohol offered during select flight times on select flights.