Docking at the port of Osaka gives access to this city and Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe on day trips. Some ships dock overnight as we did on our Japan itinerary on the Celebrity Millennium, allowing us to explore more than one city.
Whether spending a day or longer at the Osaka cruise port, there are lots of activities to choose from. Universal Studios Japan is a ferry ride away, Osaka Castle is a symbol of the country’s rich heritage, and traveling to Nara offers a chance to explore an ancient city.
Our overnight stay in Osaka allowed us to stay on land if we chose to. Some cruise guests booked a hotel in Kyoto, giving them a day and a half to explore.
Arriving in Osaka, we were welcomed by a giant Ferris wheel, a newly renovated terminal, and views across the Aji River.
Osaka Cruise Port Overview
Osaka’s cruise port offers modern facilities recently updated for Expo 2025, which the city will host. The Tempozan Pier is the main docking area, and its recent renovation allows it to handle larger cruise ships.
Cruise Port Amenities
The refurbished Tempozan cruise terminal has complimentary Wi-Fi, washrooms, and tourist information, which includes local maps.
Adjacent to the pier, Tempozan Harbor Village is packed with entertainment options. Its impressive Ferris wheel is worth a spin if preferring to see an aerial view of the area.
What’s Within Walking Distance
The Osaka cruise port offers several attractions within easy walking distance. Right next to the Tempozan Pier, where the ships dock, is a large shopping mall. It’s perfect for picking up souvenirs or grabbing a bite to eat for those who don’t want to venture far from the ship.
We recommend checking out the nearby Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of Asia’s largest. It’s just a short stroll from the cruise terminal. The facility features a remarkable array of ocean creatures, highlighted by a whale shark swimming in a large, multi-level aquarium.
The Osaka Maritime Museum is also nearby for those interested in maritime history. While smaller than some attractions, it offers interesting exhibits on the city’s nautical past.
Beyond these walking venues, transportation connects cruise guests to other attractions within Osaka or destinations beyond the city limits.
Transportation
Like the rest of Japan, Osaka has an excellent public transportation system. Convenient train and bus options connect the cruise port to popular destinations. With nearby access to Osaka Metro Station, we found to easy to reach other areas.
Train From Osaka To Kyoto
With 30 miles between Osaka and Kyoto, a day trip to the latter is an attractive idea. There is no direct train line from the cruise port to Kyoto, but there are several ways to get there. Bus, subway, and train provide access.
The fastest way to reach Kyoto from Osaka is by taking the JR Special Rapid Service. Trains depart frequently from Osaka Station and arrive at Kyoto Station in about 30 minutes.
Using transit can be overwhelming if you don’t speak or read Japanese. While their ticket machines have an English translation option, everything is in Japanese on the platforms. We recommend Google Maps, which gave us train times and platform numbers.
There’s an option to take the Shinkansen or bullet train between Osaka and Kyoto. You must go to Shin-Osaka to access the Shinkansen.
Since ticket machines don’t accept credit cards, Suica cards are often recommended in Japan. However, Suica cards have been in short supply for some time and were unavailable to purchase during our stay. So, having enough Yen is recommended.
In Kyoto, visitors can immerse themselves in the “city of temples”, have access to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and have a chance to see a genuine Geisha.
Getting To Nara
To reach Nara from Osaka, the JR Yamatoji Rapid Service provides a direct 50-minute ride. Trains run every 15 minutes from JR Osaka Station to JR Nara Station. The one-way fare is very inexpensive.
We recommend avoiding rush hour. Early morning or late evening trips are less crowded and more comfortable.
If you have limited time, an organized tour of Nara is recommended. We wanted to visit Nara on our second day in Osaka. Since our ship was departing at 3 pm, we booked a bus tour through the cruise line, guaranteeing we would return before our departure.
Things To Do In Osaka
Osaka offers a diverse selection of tours from the cruise port, or guests can explore on their own. From historic landmarks to modern entertainment complexes, this coastal city caters to various age groups and a wide range of interests.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, rich in history and beauty. Initially built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it played a crucial role in unifying Japan.
The castle was reconstructed in the 1930s and renovated again in recent years. Modern exhibits inside showcase its fascinating past. Visitors can savo panoramic views of the city from the top floor, explore the surrounding scenic gardens, and learn about its military history.
The castle’s interior is modernized and doesn’t resemble its original form. It reminded me of Odawara Castle, which we visited in another area, but with its historical interior gone and replaced with a museum.
From the Osaka cruise port, walk south 400 meters to Osakako Station and take the Osaka Metro Chou Line to Morinomiya Station. This castle is incredibly picturesque in spring when its cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Osaka Museum of History
Given its proximity to the above attraction, it is best to combine both sites in a day. The Osaka Museum of History showcases Japan’s evolution from ancient times to the modern era.
We enjoyed the interactive exhibits, detailed dioramas, and incredible views of Osaka Castle. The exhibits are spread out across four floors, highlighting different historical periods on each one. Like other museums and castles we visited, some of the displays lacked English translation.
Universal Studios Japan
For thrill-seekers and movie buffs, Universal Studios Japan provides an unforgettable experience. This world-class theme park features exciting rides and attractions based on popular TV shows and charaters we know and love.
Experience the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction or wander through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter section. One of its newest attractions, Super Nintendo World, is also a must-visit.
The amusement park, one of Asia’s largest, caters to younger children, older kids, and adults. Since it gets very busy, purchasing the express pass will provide more ride options on a limited day.
To reach Universal Studios from the cruise port, walk along the waterfront through Tempozan Park and catch the Tempozan Ferry across the Aji River. The ferry is complimentary and leaves every 30 minutes. On the other side, it’s a short walk to the entrance of Universal.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan ranks among the world’s largest aquariums. Opened in 1990, its innovative design features a central tank surrounded by smaller habitats representing different regions of the Pacific Rim.
Visitors to Kaiyukan can journey through various themed zones, each representing different habitats and their unique species. The aquarium’s centerpiece features an aqua walk-through tunnel and whale sharks, which are highlights for many guests.
It’s an easy five-minute walk from the port to reach the aquarium. Expect to spend two to three hours exploring its interactive exhibits.
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Shinto shrines. Its rich history dates back over 1,800 years to the 3rd century. The shrine is dedicated to Sumiyoshi no Okami, the deities who protect travelers and sailors.
It’s especially famous for its unique architectural style, which includes the iconic taiko-bashi. This red-arched bridge represents the crossing between the earthly realm and the divine, and it is a favorite among avid photographers.
To reach Sumiyoshi Taisha from the Osaka Cruise Port, you can take a taxi, which takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can use public transportation.
However, it takes multiple train changes and 40 minutes. Those uncomfortable with riding transit might opt for the more expensive taxi option, which gets there quickly.
Dotonbori
If preferring to hit an area that’s a bit hipper and livelier, there’s no better place than the Dotonbori district. Accessible by transit, this area is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, neon lights, and rich culinary scene.
Situated along the Dotonbori Canal, this area has transformed from a bustling theater district in the Edo period to a modern hub of entertainment and nightlife.
Dotonbori reminded me of Tokyo’s sensory overload of noise, dazzling lights, and action signage. Don’t miss its iconic landmarks, such as the giant moving crab and the famous Glico Man sign.
Street food is popular here. You can sample local delicacies such as Takotki and Okonomiyaki while enjoying the area’s energetic vibe.
Tsūtenkaku Tower
Tsūtenkaku Tower, a symbol of Osaka’s Shinsekai district, offers a nostalgic glimpse into the city’s past. Built in 1956, it replaced an earlier structure from 1912. Its design was inspired by Paris’ Eiffel Tower, although not on the same scale.
We recommend taking the elevator to the observation deck for city views and visiting the Billiken statue, believed to bring good fortune.
The surrounding area is known for its retro atmosphere and delicious street food. Its beloved kushikatsu—deep-fried skewers that are a must-try.
Shitennō-ji Temple
A 15-minute walk from Tsūtenkaku Tower is Shitennō-ji Temple. It claims to be Japan’s oldest officially administered temple. Founded in 593 AD by Prince Shōtoku, it played a crucial role in the introduction of Buddhism to Japan.
The temple’s architecture and layout reflect the traditional styles of the Asuka period. We loved the five-story pagoda and the traditional red and white colors, which stood out amongst the peaceful gardens.
Each month, the temple grounds host a flea market. If you visit during that time, you can browse the local crafts and antiques.
Namba Yasaka Shrine
Namba Yasaka Shrine is known for its striking architectural features and rich cultural significance. While it isn’t as old as many of Japan’s structures (dates from the 1970s), it doesn’t detract from its appeal.
This Shinto shrine is devoted to the god Futsunushi no Mikoto, who is believed to protect against misfortune. The shrine’s most distinctive feature is its massive lion-shaped structure, which serves as a focal point.
While this shrine isn’t large, spring embellishes the attraction with colorful cherry blossoms.
Harukas 300 Or Umeda Umeda Sky Building
We recommend visiting Harukas 300 or the Umeda Sky Building for breathtaking city views. Between the two, Harukas 300 in the Abeno Harukas skyscraper is taller, at 300 meters, and offers panoramic vistas from its observation deck on the 60th floor.
At night, the observation deck features an impressive light show that showcases an almost realistic fireworks display. Be sure to visit the souvenir shop and take a selfie with the blue Abeno mascot bear.
The Umeda Sky Building may not be as tall at 173 meters, but it features a unique “Floating Garden Observatory” connecting its two towers. Its indoor and outdoor observation decks offer fantastic 360-degree city views.
While both provide excellent photo opportunities, most visitors prefer Harukas 300 to take in Osaka’s urban landscape.
Karen Hosier, a military brat, grew up traveling the world. She lived in many countries in Europe, Asia, and North America. Later in life, she discovered cruising and shares her love of being on the ocean and exploring faraway lands. Follow her on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram.