Things to do in Yao

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo "Yao" by JEXP (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by JEXP (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Yao" by shikabane taro (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by shikabane taro (CC BY)
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Top places to visit

1. Universal Studios Japan

Since opening in 2001, Universal Studios Japan™ has attracted millions of visitors each year with its thrill rides, exciting events and theatrical shows. Spend a day with the family exploring its eight areas, each of which has its own distinct theme and unique attractions.
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Universal Studios Japan® which includes a statue or sculpture and a fountain as well as children

2. Dotonbori

Marvel at the illuminated billboards and savor gourmet meals at Dotonbori, Osaka's primary entertainment district. This glitzy precinct, situated around the Dotonbori Canal, offers diverse shopping, compelling landmarks and a large selection of high-quality Japanese restaurants.
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Dotonbori showing outdoor art and central business district as well as a large group of people

3. Osaka Castle

Learn about Japan's bloody history and Osaka's ancient rulers at Osaka Castle. This romantic multi-tier castle stands on a 264-acre (106-hectare) block of raised and fortified land, and is one of the city's most iconic sites.
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Osaka Castle featuring château or palace

4. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Delight in the diverse world below the waves at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. The goal of this institution is to bring together the various species found around the Pacific Ocean in one place, and to care for and conserve them. Explore this high-tech aquarium and get close to playful penguins, live like an arctic seal or watch whale sharks feeding.
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Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan which includes marine life

5. Tsutenkaku Tower

A visit to the Tsūtenkaku tower is a visit to the heart and soul of Osaka. Take an hour or two enjoying the towering, eight-sided construct, the magnificent view it provides and the statue of Billiken, a god of good fortune.
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Come to marvel at the tower that reaches to heaven and meet Billiken, the god of happiness and good luck.

6. Spa World

Pamper yourself with a day of stress-melting baths, healing steam and mud massages at Osaka's Spa World. This popular health center prides itself on offering a huge range of international spa and sauna experiences.
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Spa World which includes interior views, a pool and rides

What to do in Yao

Popular places to visit

Universal Studios Japan® which includes a statue or sculpture and a fountain as well as children

Universal Studios Japan

Watch theatrical shows, meet lovable mascots and go on exhilarating rides at this extensive movie-focused theme park.

Universal Studios Japan
Dotonbori showing outdoor art and central business district as well as a large group of people

Dotonbori

Experience the colorful neon heart of Osaka along this canal, where travelers, couples and entertainment seekers throng the streets.

Dotonbori
Kyocera Dome Osaka

Kyocera Dome Osaka

Catch an event at Kyocera Dome Osaka during your trip to Osaka. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Kyocera Dome Osaka
Osaka Castle featuring château or palace

Osaka Castle

Engage with Japan's rich history at this 16th-century site, where dramatic battlegrounds have made way for a peaceful park with cherry trees.

Osaka Castle
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan which includes marine life

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Experience the diverse marine ecosystems of the Pacific in this comprehensive aquarium, which hosts otters, penguins, seals and even whale sharks.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Tsutenkaku Tower

Tsutenkaku Tower

Come to marvel at the tower that reaches to heaven and meet Billiken, the god of happiness and good luck.

Tsutenkaku Tower
Spa World which includes interior views, a pool and rides

Spa World

Relax in world culture-themed spas, recharge with medicinal saunas and play around in a water park at this comprehensive health retreat.

Spa World
Nipponbashi

Nipponbashi

During your trip to Osaka, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Nipponbashi. While in this walkable area, you can savour the restaurants and cafes.

Nipponbashi
Kuromon Market

Kuromon Market

Follow scents of spices and smoked goods into the covered alleyway of this bustling food market. Its popularity with chefs has earned it the nickname Osaka’s Kitchen.

Kuromon Market
Osaka

Osaka

Photo by Ake Waratap

Higashi-osaka

Frequently asked questions

Is Yao worth visiting?
With a blend of history and culture, there's no shortage of things to do in Yao. While you're here, check out Orix Theatre, a key attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Yao?
Kick your day off with a visit to Tennoji Zoo and Solaniwa-Onsen Osaka Bay Tower. Then, tour different parts of Yao for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Yao?
Don't leave without exploring Orix Theatre, rated the top tourist attraction in Yao.
Is three days enough to stay in Yao?
You can easily enjoy popular attractions like Namba Grand Kagetsu Theatre, Tennoji Zoo and Osaka Museum of History with a three-day break in Yao. On average, most travellers book one day here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a little longer and check out Kyoto.
Is Yao a walkable city?
It comes down to what you plan to do and see in Yao. Several attractions, such as Jokoji Temple, are reachable on foot. If you feel like a stroll through one of Yao's cool neighbourhoods, Hirano Ward is 3 kilometres away from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Yao with kids?
If you're looking for activities and sights for all the family, have a look at these awesome ideas for what to do in Yao with kids.

What to do in Yao for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in Yao for adults including Osaka-jō Hall and Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Street.
Are there free things to do in Yao?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Yao. If you're stuck for ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Saint Maria Osaka Cathedral is a top spot for anyone planning to save on their travelling adventures.