Visit Osaka

Namba

2.8 miles from downtown

Hit your funny bone at Namba Grand Kagetsu, where famous comedians take center stage. Osaka’s showbiz is the country’s largest and it tends toward the comedic. Subverting Japanese stereotypes, these locals are far from shy. Head to the red lantern-lined streets and eat your way through this district to find out why Osaka’s called “Japan’s stomach.”

Places to stay from $9 a night

Dotonbori

2.4 miles from downtown

Larger-than-life crustaceans and illuminated ads – sound appealing? Then you’ll love Osaka’s nightlife: surreal, chaotic and too trendy for its own good. Festive lights reflect in the Dotonbori-gawa canal to create a neon ambiance. Don’t leave without eating a hot octopus ball (takoyaki) from Kukuru Takoyaki (they’re kind of a big deal).

Places to stay from $15 a night

Shin Osaka

2 miles from downtown

Osaka’s gateway, Shin Osaka whisks travelers to Kyoto and beyond on the Shinkansen (bullet train). Entertainment and shopping options are sparse, but the sleepy town’s a favorite among locals who are looking to be near the hubbub of Kita, but far enough away for some privacy.

Places to stay from $16 a night

Umeda

0.2 miles from downtown

Trendsetters, tip your hats to Umeda’s funky fashion. There’s enough in this urban maze to delight all stripes, no matter what color your collar. Photograph your way through the Floating Garden Observatory or get even higher by taking a turn on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel that’s perched atop a building. Hello, stunning Ikoma Mountain view.

Places to stay from $16 a night

Kita

In downtown

Punch the clock right next to Osaka’s busiest. This transportation hub buzzes with worker bees. But the 9 to 5ers know how to let loose after hours. Eat or imbibe at Dojima Center and satisfy your retail cravings away from the sun in one of Kita’s underground malls. For luck in future travels, as well as love, head to Tsuyunoten Shrine.

Places to stay from $16 a night

Shinsaibashi

2.2 miles from downtown

Shinsaibashi is synonymous with shopping. High-fashion brands like Prada dominate on Midosuji Street, and Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Center has a plethora of boutiques between its box shops. Pinch a penny by purchasing a bento box in the basement of Daimaru Department Store and eat outdoors on the roof.

Places to stay from $10 a night

Minami

2.8 miles from downtown

Hang with the thespians. From kabuki (dance-drama) to bunraku (Japanese puppet theater) to comedy plays, this area scratches your entertainment itch. Once better known for its underworld charm and colorful nature, cultural shifts have turned it into a new hipster hangout. Peruse Kuromon Ichiba market for some fresh sashimi and strawberry mochi.

Places to stay from $5 a night