10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Osaka

Central Osaka is famous for its wide range of nightlife experiences, some of which are suitable for those traveling with children. Once the sun goes down, it’s time to take in the famous neon signs of Dotonbori, spectacular night views from the Tempozan Ferris Wheel and fantastic lanterns illuminating Hōzenji Temple.
You won’t have any trouble finding places in Osaka that stay open until late. From soaking the day’s fatigue away at hot springs and spas to enjoying fun karaoke and VR experiences, let’s take a look at the best local nightlife experiences in Osaka.

1. Dotonbori

A buzzing neighborhood of restaurants and night-time venues

Good for: Shoppers, Nightlife

The Dotonbori area in Osaka is mostly filled with restaurants and stalls selling regional dishes. It’s a very lively place that’s constantly buzzing with people. Many shops are open until late, so the area is very busy until near dawn, especially on weekends.
What‘s particularly outstanding in Dotonbori is the sight of flashy neon signs on both sides of the Dotonbori River. The Ezaki Glico sign is especially popular. The design, depicting a runner crossing a finish line with his arms raised, is probably familiar to many people. Because it’s located at the foot of Ebisu Bridge over Dotonbori River, it’s also a great photo spot.

Location: Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan

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2. Santa Maria Twilight Cruise

Enchanting sunset views on a relaxing sea cruise

Good for: Couples, Nightlife, Luxury

The Santa Maria Twilight Cruise provides a unique way of watching the sunset and experiencing night views of Tempozan Harbor Village. The cruise ship is a reproduction that’s double the size of the original <em>Santa Maria</em>, which was used by Columbus to reach the US. There’s nothing else quite like a cruise around Osaka Port, which is one of the few west-facing ports in Japan.
You get to enjoy excellent views of the sunset as well as illuminations of Tempozan Harbor Village and various sights of the Osaka Bay Area. It’s a 60-minute cruise, but the calming effects of the evening breeze make this serene experience stretch as though time itself is taking a moment to appreciate the sights.

Location: Osaka Port, 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan

Open: Vary by season

Phone: +81 (0)6-6942-5511

3. Hozenji Yokocho

Traditional cobbled streets and peaceful shrines

Good for: Nightlife

Hozenji Yokocho offers a quiet atmosphere in Osaka, thanks to its quaint cobblestone paths. While it’s a popular restaurant district, you can also find Hozenji Temple, which contains the statue of Fudo Myo-o, a Buddhist spirit.
One of Osaka’s unique sights is that of people praying to the moss-covered statue at the heart of the downtown Minami district. After spending time in Dotonbori, it’s a good idea to have a meal at Hozenji Yokocho or enjoy views of traditional lanterns at Hozenji Temple. It might just make you forget that you’re in the middle of a modern city.

Location: Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan

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4. Kuchu Teien Observatory Deck

Wonderful views of Osaka from high above the streets

Good for: Couples, Nightlife

Kuchu Teien Observatory (Floating Garden Observatory) is on the 40th floor of Umeda Sky Building. Take the elevator from the Floating Garden gate on the 3rd floor to the 35th floor. From there, transfer to the mid-air escalator, which takes you to Floating Garden entrance. Buy tickets here before heading to the observatory on the 40th floor.
The north and south sides have glass walls, offering uninterrupted city views. Take your time and enjoy the view even on windy days. Check out the Sky Walk to enjoy the sights from an even higher level. This is an amazing point to see Osaka at night, lights sparkling like jewels, at the circular corridor around the top of the 570-ft-high building.

Location: Umeda Sky Building, 1-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka 531-0076, Japan

Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 10.30 pm

Phone: +81 (0)6-6440-3855

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5. National Bunraku Theater

A traditional Japanese artform

Good for: Nightlife

Japan has an incredible history of puppetry. It’s a traditional art form. Don’t miss seeing master puppeteers handling puppets that are 2/3 the size of a human at this national institution. Operating for 7 months throughout the year, <em>bunraku</em> puppet shows generally run for 3-week periods. It’s best to check program times at the theater unless you are a Japanese speaker.
The theater itself is an artform in its own right, blending modern facilities with traditional Japanese architecture. To reach the venue, take the subway to Nippombashi station.

Location: 1-12-10 Nippon-bashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0073, Japan

Phone: +81 (0)6 6212 2531

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6. Jankara Osaka

One of Osaka’s favorite karaoke spots

Good for: Nightlife, Group

Jumbo Karaoke Hiroba, or Jankara, is one of the most popular karaoke chains in Japan. It offers a wide range of services, including low-cost room charges with free all-you-can-drink menus. You can even bring your own food and drinks to Jankara.
There are a variety of concept rooms, free Wi-Fi, and free use of phone chargers. Many Jankara outlets are open until dawn, so you can casually go whenever you want to sing without having to worry about the time. One of its most popular branches is located in Dotonburi, around 400 yards south of the Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street.

Location: 1 Chome-7-23 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0077, Japan

Phone: +81 (0)80-6202-6587

7. Osaka Castle Tower

Historic castle with incredible illuminations

Good for: Couples, Families, History, Nightlife

Situated right in the center of Osaka, Osaka Castle is a Special Historic Site. One of Japan’s oldest castles, it also won the 9th Night View Heritage of Japan Award for its illuminations.
If you visit in the daytime, you can check out the exhibitions on display in the Castle Tower (Tenshukaku) and enjoy a stroll in the park. The illuminations at night give Tenshukaku a completely different look. The best time to visit is at night, during Osaka’s cherry blossom season. If possible, check out Osaka Castle’s 3D mapping illumination event, which changes its theme every year.

Location: 1-1 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Osaka 542-0002, Japan

Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

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8. Tempozan Ferris Wheel

One of the largest Ferris wheels in Japan

Good for: Couples, Families, Nightlife

Tempozan Ferris Wheel is one of the largest Ferris wheels in Japan. Located in Tempozan Harbor Village, where there are many famous spots to enjoy night views, the best of which is a ride on this 370-ft-tall attraction.
Expect panoramic views of the illuminations overlooking Osaka Port and the neighboring areas. You can see Tempozan Bridge and Kobe in the north, the buildings of Umeda in the east, Osaka South Port ATC in the south and Aquarium Kaiyukan and Osaka Port in the west. Tempozan Ferris Wheel itself is illuminated with LED lights, motifs such as fireworks, kaleidoscopes, and its mascot called Tempomaru.

Location: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka 552-0022, Japan

Open: Hours vary by season

Phone: +81 (0)6-6576-6222

9. Shimoakasaka Terraced Paddy Fields

Gorgeous scenery and a traditional setting

Good for: Nightlife

The Shimoakasaka Terraced Paddy Fields are located in Chihaya Akasaka, the only remaining village in the Osaka prefecture. This quaint rural area is known for its picturesque scenery, which changes every season, making it an excellent spot for taking awe-inspiring photos.
The best time to visit the Shimoakasaka Terraced Rice Fields is at dusk. The light of the setting sun reflects on the terraced rice fields, resulting in a stunning view. You should also visit in November to see the rice fields glow as they’re illuminated by artificial lighting.

Location: Moriya, Chihayaakasaka, Minamikawachi District, Osaka 585-0044, Japan

10. Club Circus Osaka

Underground nightclub where you can lose yourself in the beat

Good for: Nightlife

Club Circus is an intimate nightclub in Osaka’s Nakanishi Building. It has an excellent sound system that plays a wide range of music, from techno to hip hop. The city’s young crowd often come here on weekends for late-night dancing.
Club Circus is easy to get to from anywhere downtown, as it’s located between the Yotsubashi and Shinsaibashi metro stations. The cover charge varies depending on the DJ of the night. It’s a good idea to check its schedule online before you head to the club.

Location: Nakanishi Building, 2F, 1-8-16 Nishi-Shinsaibashi Chuo-Ku Osaka 542-0086, Japan

Open: Daily from 8 pm to midnight

Phone: +81 (0)6-6241-3822

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