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GAY OSAKA
Discover this City with our Quick and Practical Guide to Visit the Best Attractions, Savor Typical Dishes and Have Fun in the Best Gay Bars. All this through the Rainbow Eyes of the World Mappers
What to See, Best Places to Sleep, Where to Eat and to Have Fun in OSAKA?
Find it out with the World Mappers !
LGBT OSAKA
Osaka is one of the most LGBT-friendly cities in Japan, with a growing scene and events that celebrate diversity and human rights. It is also considered a relatively progressive city when it comes to LGBT rights in Japan, with a cultural and social scene that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.
WHAT TO SEE in OSAKA?
10 THINGS TO SEE in OSAKA
Dontonbori
Dotonbori is a lively district in Osaka, known for its bright neon signs, restaurants, and lively atmosphere. On one of its side streets is Hozen-Ji Temple: a small Buddhist temple known for its peaceful atmosphere and the tradition of dousing the statue of Jizo, the protector of travelers and children, with water and food offerings. This district is also home to the National Bunraku Theatre: it is the main theater dedicated to bunraku, the traditional Japanese puppet theater. This theater hosts bunraku performances that combine puppetry, music, and storytelling to tell historical stories and Japanese legends. It is an important cultural institution that preserves and promotes this unique art form.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is an imposing castle located in the center of the city, known for its majestic architecture and surrounding gardens. Built in 1583, it is an important historical and cultural symbol of the city, a tourist attraction and a monument.
Shinsekai & Tsūtenkaku Tower
Shinsekai is a historic district in Osaka, characterized by a retro atmosphere and the Tsutenkaku Tower. Established in the 1920s, it is known for its vibrant street food and traditional restaurants. The Shinsekai Market, located here, is a bustling market where you can find food, souvenirs and local products. The Tsutenkaku Tower offers a panoramic view of the city and also houses restaurants and shops inside.
Nipponbashi Denden Town
This is a lively district in Osaka dedicated to fans of electronics, anime and Japanese pop culture. Full of specialty shops, it is a paradise for collectors and fans of manga, cosplay and games. Similar to Tokyo's Akihabara, Denden Town is a must-see for otaku.
Namba District
Osaka's Namba district is a bustling commercial and entertainment hub known for its busy streets, restaurants, and shops. Known for its nightlife, street food culture, and neon signs, it is a dynamic urban landmark.
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka is an ancient Shinto shrine, founded in 211 AD. It is known for its traditional architecture, Sorihashi Bridge, and its large green spaces, dedicated to the protection of travelers and sailors.
Umeda & Umeda Sky Building
Umeda is a bustling commercial district in Osaka, known for its skyscrapers and shopping malls. The Umeda Sky Building, with its spectacular observation deck and futuristic design, offers breathtaking views of the city and a unique experience.
Shitenno-ji Temple
Shitenno-ji Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan. Celebrated for its historic architecture and beautiful gardens, it is an important place of worship and pilgrimage, symbolizing the Japanese religious tradition.
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan is a large amusement park that offers themed attractions based on popular films and TV series. It includes roller coasters, live shows and themed areas, offering an immersive experience for the whole family.
The National Museum of Art Osaka & Osaka Science Museum
The National Museum of Art Osaka, located underground, houses a large collection of modern and contemporary art, with works by Japanese and international artists. The Osaka Science Museum, on the other hand, offers interactive and hands-on exhibits on science and technology, with a focus on experiments and a planetarium, ideal for families and the curious.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Visiting this city at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it. Here is a solution based on the number of days available to you:
Day 1 - Osaka #1 (Umeda, Osaka Castle & Dontonbori) - Google Maps
Day 2 - Osaka #2 (Namba, Nipponbashi Denden Town & Tsutenkaku) - Google Maps
Extra - Nara (by Train) - Google Maps
Extra - Kyoto (by Train) - Google Maps
(By opening the Maps with Google, you can easily follow our path)
5 BEST EXCURSIONS from OSAKA
We advise you to book the best excursions here: Viator - Musement - Get Your Guide
Nara
Kyoto
Himeji
Kobe
Miyajima & Hiroshima
Click'n'Go - Click on Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Clubs
to find them on the Map or visit their Website
WHERE TO SLEEP in OSAKA?
10 BEST GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS in OSAKA
Swissôtel Nankai Osaka ***** ® Tested by World Mappers Candeo Hotels Osaka Namba ****
Hotel Taisei Nakanoshima **** Hotel Elcient Osaka Umeda **** Joytel Hotel Namba Dotonbori **** Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier ****
Travelodge Honmachi Osaka *** ® Tested by World Mappers
Map'Hotel • SWISSHOTEL NANKAI OSAKA
Our stay at Swissôtel Nankai Osaka was simply unforgettable. As a gay couple, we were welcomed with impeccable professionalism and friendliness, which made us feel at ease straight away. The hotel, located in the heart of Osaka, offered us a perfect location to explore the city. Our room, a luxurious suite with a breathtaking panoramic view, gave us moments of total relaxation and comfort. We also had the opportunity to unwind at the Pürovel Spa & Sport, a rejuvenating experience after our days spent exploring the city. Every detail, from the carefully served breakfast to the kindness of the staff, contributed to making our stay an inclusive and unforgettable experience, perfect for LGBTQ+ couples.
Map'Hotel • TRAVELODGE HONMACHI OSAKA
Staying at the Travelodge Honmachi Osaka is a unique experience. We immediately noticed the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, which made us feel at ease from the first moment. Thanks to its central location, the hotel was ideal for visiting Osaka without difficulty, with the main attractions within easy reach. The room, although simple, was well equipped and offered us everything we needed for a pleasant and peaceful stay. The staff, always courteous and helpful, guaranteed an impeccable service, making our stay even more enjoyable. The air of inclusiveness and respect that you breathe in the hotel contributed to making everything truly memorable and relaxing.
WHERE TO EAT in OSAKA?
10 BEST RESTAURANTS in OSAKA Quality / Price
€€€ - Chibo
€€€ - Wagyu IDATEN
€€€ - Kura Sushi - Tengachaya
€€ - Moegi
GAY NIGHTLIFE in OSAKA
BEST GAY PLACES, BARS & CLUBS in OSAKA
FrenZ FrenZY Rainbow Haven (Gay Bar) ® Tested by World Mappers
Hysterics (Gay Bar) ® Tested by World Mappers
Explosion (Gay Bar)
TRAVEL TIPS about OSAKA by World Mappers
Take a ride on the world's first oval Ferris wheel. We are at the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, an iconic Ferris wheel located in the heart of Osaka, near the famous Dotonbori district. Part of the Don Quijote building, it offers spectacular views of the city. With its unique oval shape, it is a must-see attraction for breathtaking views of Osaka.
A must-try is the Go Kart experience around Osaka with Akiba Kart: real Japanese-style go-karts, but with a special twist: the karts are decorated with themes of famous characters and games, such as those from animation and video games.
Take advantage of green areas such as Osaka Castle Park and Nakanoshima Park for a bit of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city!
Experience a traditional tea ceremony: it is a ritual of elegance and reflection that celebrates the art of Japanese tea. Based on harmony, respect, purity and tranquility, the ceremony involves the preparation and tasting of matcha tea in serene and ornate settings, offering a profound cultural experience. Experience this at Shitenno-ji Temple!
Osaka is the home of Japanese food! There are so many things to try, such as Takoyaki (octopus balls), Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes), and Kushikatsu (fried skewers). Don't miss Melon Pan, a traditional Japanese dessert. It is a sweet and soft brioche bread with a crispy surface, decorated with checkerboard cuts and dusted with sugar. Enjoy it as is or fill it with jam or ice cream! Don't miss other local specialties too.
"SECRET OSAKA"
Unusual and Particular Places to See in Osaka
Outside the classic places to visit of the city, there is a "Secret Osaka" that has simply bewitched us. Here are the 5 Things and Places to See in Secret Osaka:
Namba Yasaka Shrine - famous temple for its imposing 12-meter-tall lion-head shrine. This unique structure is said to bring good luck and protection from evil, attracting visitors who wish for success and prosperity. Located in Namba, it is a symbolic and evocative place.
Gate Tower Building - is a distinctive skyscraper known for its unique structure, with a highway running through the building at several levels. This innovative design allows for the construction of a skyscraper without interrupting the flow of traffic, representing an outstanding example of functional architecture.
Dotonbori Hotel Front Pillars - decorated with bright and distinctive details, these pillars add to the lively atmosphere and visual appeal of the neighborhood, attracting the attention of visitors.
Osaka Tenmangu Shrine - this lesser-known shrine is famous for its Tenjin Matsuri festival and traditional architectural structures. It is a great place to explore Japanese spirituality away from the crowds.
Radium Onsen - is a hot spring facility that uses radium-infused water, known for its supposed therapeutic properties. It offers a relaxing and regenerating bathing experience in a serene environment, with pools and hot tubs, ideal for recovering energy and well-being.
INSTAGRAMMABLE OSAKA
Instagrammable Places to See in Osaka
Don't miss the best instagrammable places in Osaka, here are our favorites:
GAY TOURS in OSAKA
Do you want to discover the city and enjoy one of Best Gay Tours in Osaka? We recommend the following local operator(s):
MyGayTour.com - Tour Operator offering tours and excursions dedicated to the LGBT+ community Worldwide. Special Tours and Gay & Lesbian Friendly Guides ready to make you discover the beauties of this destination.
5% Discount Code for MyGayTour Following The World Mappers "WORLD5"
Info & Booking: info@MyGayTour.com - Check all Prices here: www.MyGayTour.com
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