Osaka is a city that blends traditional Japanese culture with modern charm, and is a popular tourist destination for many foreign visitors.
This article introduces some of the experiences and attractions for foreigners to enjoy in Osaka, as well as some of the more special traditional cultural experiences.
Traditional Cultural Experiences for Foreigners in Osaka
Osaka is a popular tourist destination for many foreign visitors, where traditional Japanese culture meets modern-day charm.
In this city, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Japanese history and culture through a variety of traditional cultural experiences.
Here we introduce some of the most recommended traditional cultural experiences.
Tea ceremony experience
The tea ceremony is one of the most popular aspects of traditional Japanese culture, and can be experienced in Osaka.
In the tea ceremony experience, you will learn the spirit of Japanese “Omotenashi” (hospitality) and enjoy matcha (powdered green tea) in a tranquil setting.
The tea ceremony is a traditional Japanese cultural art form that emphasizes a series of gestures, such as serving powdered green tea and carefully presenting a bowl of tea.
In Osaka, tea ceremony experiences are offered in facilities with tea rooms and beautiful gardens, where visitors can learn more about the history and etiquette of the tea ceremony.
The tea ceremony program includes a tour of the tearoom, an explanation of tea utensils, instruction on how to prepare matcha (powdered green tea), and time to prepare and enjoy matcha yourself. The tearooms are usually in a quiet and peaceful setting.
Enjoy the rich flavor of matcha green tea and the beautiful view of the garden while relaxing and forgetting the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Below is a sampling of facilities offering tea ceremony experiences in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Name: Tea Ceremony Osaka The Osaka
Address: 2F, 1-5-26 Dotonbori Higashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0071, Japan
Phone: 090-3095-5879 (Japanese and English available)
Hours: 9:00 – 21:00
Official Website: https://www.tea- ceremony-osaka.com/japan/
Store name: MAIKOYA
Address: 1-22-7 Shinmachi, Nishi-ku, Osaka 550-0013, Japan
Phone: 06-6556-6257
Hours: 10:00-19:00
Official website: https://mai-ko.com/what-to-do-in-japan/ja/大阪茶道/
Wagashi Making Experience
Wagashi making, which can also be experienced in Osaka, is a great opportunity for visitors to create unforgettable memories.
Wagashi is deeply connected with Japan’s four seasons and events, and its beautiful seasonal designs and delicate flavors are appealing.
In the wagashi-making experience, visitors can create beautiful wagashi with their own hands under the careful guidance of artisans.
In particular, wagashi made with kneaded dough and rice cakes attract many people with their fine techniques and rich colors.
During the experience, visitors can learn about the history and culture of wagashi, as well as how to make various types of wagashi.
This will help you understand that wagashi is not just a confectionary, but a work of art that symbolizes traditional Japanese culture.
Furthermore, the time spent enjoying the wagashi you have made with tea is truly a moment to experience the spirit of Japanese “Omotenashi”.
Matcha green tea and homemade Japanese sweets enjoyed in a quiet tea room provide a precious moment of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The experience of making wagashi is an excellent opportunity not only to learn culinary skills, but also to understand the design and meaning of Japanese sweets according to the four seasons and events of the year.
You can taste your own wagashi on the spot or take them home to show off to family and friends.
In the process of making them, you will be able to experience Japanese culture and the changing of the seasons.
Below are some examples of facilities in Osaka that offer wagashi making experiences.
Basic Store Information
Store Name: MAIKOYA
Address: 1-22-7 Shinmachi, Nishi-ku, Osaka 550-0013, Japan
Phone: 06-6556-6257
Hours: 10:00-19:00
Official Website: https://mai-ko.com/tour/大阪マイコヤで和菓子作り + Tea ceremony experience/
Store Name: Iori an
Address: 3F Sue Masa Bldg, 1-12-18 Edobori, Nishi-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 550-0002, Japan
Business Hours: 8:00 – 20:00
Official Website: https://osaka.nipponbunkan.com
Kimono Rental and Dressing Experience
The experience of wearing a kimono and exploring the city is a fascinating activity to try at least once in Osaka.
Numerous rental stores are available, and professional staff will carefully dress you.
Wearing a kimono and walking through Osaka’s temples, shrines, and traditional streets will allow you to enjoy the atmosphere of Osaka even more.
Commemorative photo services by professional photographers are also very popular. Kimonos of various designs and colors are available at rental stores, so you can choose the one that best suits your taste.
Strolling around in a kimono is also recommended, especially when visiting places such as Osaka’s charming neighborhoods. Capturing the beautiful scenery and yourself in a kimono will make your trip to Osaka even more special and memorable.
Below are some examples of stores offering kimono rentals in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Store Name: Kimono Rental VASARA Osaka Umeda
Address: 1-12-6 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 530-0001, Japan E-ma B1F
Phone Number: 03-6744-6725
Hours: 9:00 – 18:00
Official Website :https://vasara-h.co.jp/shop/detail. html?id=15
Store Name: MAIKOYA
Address: 1-22-7 Shinmachi, Nishi-ku, Osaka 550-0013, Japan
Phone Number: 06-6556-6257
Hours: 10:00-19:00
Official Website: https: %E5%%E3%
Japanese Dance Experience
Japanese dance, one of Japan’s traditional cultural traditions, can be experienced in Osaka.
In the Japanese dance experience, you will learn about Japanese aesthetics and historical gestures, while calming your mind through graceful movements.
Nihon Buyo is a traditional performing art in which dancers dance to classical music, and through dancing, one can deeply experience the culture and spirit of Japan.
In Osaka, specialized studios and classrooms offer a Japanese dance experience, where you can learn more about the history and etiquette of this art form.
The hands-on program includes instruction in basic movements, an explanation of the tools used in traditional Japanese dance, and time for actual dancing.
Enjoy the graceful movements and traditional music of traditional Japanese dance and relax and forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Below is a sampling of facilities offering Japanese dance experiences in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Store Name: Japanese Dance Experience Sakura
Address: Namba Culture Bldg. 3F, 1-18-8 Nambanaka, Naniwa-ku, Osaka 556-0011, Japan
Phone: 06-6645-1236
Hours: Every Wednesday 13:00-15:00
Note: For women over 16 years old only. Accompanying men can only observe
Official website :https://coubic.com/japan-dance-sakura#pageContent
Store Name: Nihon Buyo Senju-ryu
Address: 3-12-2 Noe, Joto-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 536-0006, Japan
Official Website : %A8% japanese-culture-workshop
Taiko Performance Experience
Taiko performances, a traditional Japanese cultural tradition, can also be experienced in Osaka.
The taiko performance experience will allow visitors to experience the powerful Japanese rhythms and unique energy of this traditional Japanese instrument.
Taiko playing is not just a musical performance, but a dynamic art form that uses the whole body to beat the rhythm.
Participants will learn basic taiko drumming techniques and rhythm patterns, and experience the joy of performance by actually playing the taiko. Performing amidst the echoing sounds of taiko is truly a precious time to refresh the body and soul.
In Osaka, taiko performance experiences are offered at specialized studios and facilities.
These hands-on programs include explanations of taiko history and culture, instruction in basic performance techniques, and time to actually play the taiko. Forget the stresses of everyday life and release your energy while riding the rhythm of taiko.
Below is a sampling of facilities offering taiko performance experiences in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Store name: TAIKO LAB
Address: 3-1-24 Nakatsu, Kita-ku, Osaka 531-0071, Japan
Phone: 0120-681-015
Hours: 9:30 – 21:00
Official website :https://www.taikolab.com/world/
Store Name: Wabunka Experience
Phone: 03-4590-0140
Official Website :https://wabunka-experience.com/experiences/japanese-drums
Calligraphy Experience
Calligraphy, one of Japan’s traditional cultural activities, can be experienced in Osaka.
In the calligraphy experience, you will be able to calm your mind while concentrating on writing beautiful Japanese characters with a brush.
Calligraphy is the art of using a brush and ink to draw characters, characterized by the spirituality and beauty contained in each stroke.
In the calligraphy experience, you will learn how to hold a basic brush and write, and write your name or favorite words beautifully. The appeal of calligraphy lies not only in the mere skill of writing, but also in the deep sense of Japanese spirituality and aesthetics that lies behind it.
In Osaka, calligraphy classes and studios offer hands-on calligraphy experiences, and beginners are welcome to participate. The hands-on program includes an explanation of the history of calligraphy and its tools, instruction in basic writing techniques, and time to actually write. In a quiet and concentrated environment, you will enjoy the scent of ink and the smooth movement of the brush.
Below is a sampling of facilities offering calligraphy experiences in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Store Name: Wabunka Experience
Phone: 03-4590-0140
Official Website :https://wabunka-experience.com/experiences/calligraphy/
Store Name: Seiho Shohokai
Address: Toa Building 6F, 3-5-11 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0076, Japan
Phone Number: 06-4396-9656
Hours: 10:00 – 17:00
Official Website: https://www.sei-sho.jp/course/global.html
hands-on experience with ceramics
Ceramic art, one of Japan’s traditional cultures, can also be experienced in Osaka.
The pottery experience will allow you to relax your mind while exercising your creativity by using clay to create your own unique vessels and objects.
Ceramics is a traditional technique of creating one’s own unique work of art through the process of shaping, firing, and finishing by hand or using a potter’s wheel.
In the ceramics experience, under the guidance of expert instructors, visitors can learn basic techniques and enjoy the fun of giving shape to their own ideas.
In Osaka, pottery classes and studios offer pottery making experiences for all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced.
The hands-on program includes instruction in clay handling and molding techniques, glaze application, and time to actually make a piece of art. The appeal of ceramics lies in the fact that the pieces you create with your own hands will be both practical and artistic.
Below is a sampling of facilities offering ceramic art experiences in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Store Name: Ceramic Art Class Momokuri
Address: 6-5-2 Hannan-cho, Abeno-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 545-0021, Japan
Phone Number: 06-6695-3380
Hours: 9:00 – 21:00
Official Website: https://tokuri-ceramic.com/
Store Name: Room Room Ceramics Workshop
Address: Toei Building 4F, 1-12-2 Minamihorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka 550-0015, Japan
Phone Number: 06-4390-6965
Hours: 10:00 – 22:00
Official Website :https://www.room696.com/
Gourmet experiences unique to Osaka
Osaka is a gourmet center where rich traditions and bustling modern culture intersect.
Osaka’s diverse food culture is one of the main attractions for visitors to the city.
Here are some of the special gourmet experiences you can have in Osaka.
Takoyaki in Osaka
One of the most famous foods in Osaka is takoyaki.
Characterized by a crispy outside and a tender inside, the takoyaki is usually filled with large octopus fillets and topped with sauce, mayonnaise, aonori (green laver), dried bonito flakes, and other toppings.
In the experience of grilling takoyaki by yourself, you can enjoy the fun and satisfaction of creating your own takoyaki using a takoyaki cooker.
In the takoyaki experience, visitors can learn basic techniques under the guidance of a professional instructor while enjoying the fun of giving shape to their own ideas.
In Osaka, there are several restaurants where you can grill and enjoy takoyaki by yourself, which can be enjoyed by beginners and experts alike.
The hands-on program includes instruction on how to make the dough, prepare the ingredients, bake the takoyaki, and time to actually cook and eat the takoyaki.
The charm of takoyaki lies in the fact that you can taste what you have created with your own hands on the spot.
Below are some examples of restaurants where you can experience takoyaki in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Name: Takonotetsu
Address: 1-10 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0017, Japan
Phone: 06-6314-0847
Hours: 11:30 – 23:00
Official Website :https://takonotetsu.co.jp/
Store Name: Takoyaki School Infinite
Address: 1-5-31 Kaigan-dori, Minato-ku, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Phone Number: 06-4394-846
Hours: 11:00 – 20:00
Official Website :https://www.blast-tour.com/takoyaki- mugen-jp/
Okonomiyaki experience
One of the most famous foods in Osaka is okonomiyaki.
The fluffy okonomiyaki is made of dough mixed with cabbage, meat, seafood, and other ingredients, grilled on a griddle, and enjoyed with plenty of sauce, mayonnaise, aonori (green laver), bonito flakes, etc. The okonomiyaki is then topped with a variety of ingredients, including cabbage, meat, seafood, etc.
In the experience of grilling okonomiyaki by yourself, you can enjoy the fun and satisfaction of creating your own unique okonomiyaki using a teppan (iron plate).
During the experience, under the guidance of expert instructors, participants can learn basic techniques and enjoy the fun of giving shape to their ideas.
In Osaka, there are several restaurants where you can enjoy grilling your own okonomiyaki, and a wide range of people, from beginners to experts, can enjoy it.
The hands-on program includes instruction on how to make the dough, prepare the ingredients, and bake the okonomiyaki, as well as time to actually cook and eat the okonomiyaki.
The charm of okonomiyaki lies in the fact that you can taste what you have created with your own hands on the spot.
Below are some examples of restaurants where you can experience okonomiyaki in Osaka.
Basic Store Information
Name: Okonomiyaki Jiro
Address: 2-32-14 Higashimikuni, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka 532-0002, Japan
Phone: 050-5484-5093
Hours: 11:45-25:00
Official Website :https://www.instagram.com/okonomiyakijiro/
Name: Osaka Botejyu Main Restaurant
Address: 4-3-21 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0076
Tel: 06-6632-3631
Hours: 11:00-19:00 for experience
Official Website :https://osaka-botejyu.com/school/
“17 delightful restaurants in Osaka suitable for entertaining foreigners.
“Foreigners Delight! 10 Popular Restaurants Tokyo/Osaka/Kyoto/Hakata/Sapporo/Hiroshima
Attractions of Osaka
Osaka is a city where Japanese history and modern culture merge, attracting visitors with its vibrant landscape and beautiful seasonal scenery.
The city offers a rich history, diverse culture, and seasonal charm.
This chapter details Osaka’s history and culture, as well as the charms of its four seasons.
History and Culture of Osaka
Osaka is a city with an important history from ancient times to the present day in Japan.
Known in ancient times as “Namba-kyo”, it was one of the capitals from the Asuka to Nara periods. During this period, Osaka developed as a political, economic, and cultural center.
In the 14th century, Ishiyama Gobo (later Ishiyama Honganji Temple) was built by Rennyo and became the religious center of Osaka. Later, after battles by Nobunaga Oda, Hideyoshi Toyotomi built Osaka Castle and Osaka as a castle town developed.
During the reign of Hideyoshi, Osaka prospered as a hub of shipping and water transportation, attracting merchants from all over the country.
During the Edo period (1603-1867), Osaka became the “kitchen of the nation” and a distribution center for goods from all over the country, becoming the center of Japan’s economy.
Along with commerce, Bunraku (puppet theater), Rakugo, and Kabuki flourished. Educational institutions such as Tekijuku and Kaitokudo were established, and academic and educational culture also made great strides.
Four Seasons in Osaka
Osaka is a city that offers beautiful scenery in each of the four seasons.
In spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Osaka Castle Park and Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, and many people enjoy viewing the blossoms. A picnic in the parks provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
In summer, the Tenjin Festival, one of the three major festivals in Japan, is held, with fireworks and boat-walking as highlights. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a cool meal along the Dotonbori River.
In the fall, the autumn leaves turn beautiful colors in Expo ’70 Commemorative Park and Minoh Park. During the fall foliage season, the parks are illuminated at night, offering beautiful views of the autumn leaves.
In winter, the city of Osaka is decorated with illuminations. The illumination of Midosuji Boulevard and Osaka Castle is particularly breathtaking. In addition, you will be able to enjoy the cold weather with a variety of gourmet foods unique to winter, such as hot springs and hot-pot dishes.
Popular Tourist Spots for Foreigners
Osaka is an attractive destination for many foreign visitors due to its rich history, culture, and modern charm.
Here are some of the most popular attractions.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle, one of Osaka’s most famous tourist attractions, is a historical landmark built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583.
Osaka Castle’s keep offers a spectacular view of the city.
Surrounding the castle is the vast Osaka Castle Park, where beautiful cherry blossoms bloom in spring, attracting many cherry blossom-viewing visitors. In the fall, the autumn foliage is magnificent, and visitors can enjoy different scenery in each season.
There is also a museum inside Osaka Castle, where visitors can learn more about the era of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of Osaka.
Osaka Castle’s majestic appearance and historical background make it an attractive spot for visiting foreign tourists.
Tsutenkaku Tower
Tsutenkaku Tower is a symbol of Osaka and is located in the Shinsekai district.
The original Tsutenkaku Tower was built in 1912, and the current building was rebuilt in 1956.
The observatory offers a 360-degree view of Osaka City, and is especially known for its beautiful night views.
The surrounding Shinsekai district has a retro Showa-era atmosphere and is lined with many restaurants and souvenir stores. In particular, there is a concentration of famous kushikatsu restaurants, where visitors can enjoy Osaka’s famous food.
Inside Tsutenkaku is a statue of Billiken, which is said to bring good luck when visitors stroke the soles of its feet.
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is the downtown area of Osaka and a popular destination for many tourists.
Along the Dotonbori River are some of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks, such as Glico’s giant neon sign and the moving crab sign of Crab Doraku. These landmarks are popular photo-opportunities for tourists.
Dotonbori is lined with many restaurants where visitors can enjoy Osaka specialties such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu.
At night, the area is filled with neon lights and a lively atmosphere.
Visitors will experience Osaka’s energetic culture as they stroll through Dotonbori, shopping and dining.
Motenas Japan, a traditional culture experience for foreigners in Osaka
For foreigners seeking a special traditional cultural experience in Osaka, Motenas Japan’s services are highly recommended.
Motenas Japan offers a unique and exclusive private experience throughout Japan, including Osaka.
For example, a kaiseki dinner at a high-class ryotei restaurant offers a sumptuous meal using ingredients from each of the four seasons.
In addition, a private tea ceremony experience in a historical building will give you a deep sense of Japanese “Omotenashi” (hospitality).
Each experience is accompanied by a dedicated guide who will explain in detail about the culture and history of the area, providing a deep understanding and emotional experience that cannot be obtained through mere sightseeing.
Unlike most experience plans, you will be able to enjoy the essence of traditional Japanese culture through a special program in a private space.
To make your stay in Osaka even more special, we invite you to take advantage of Motenas Japan’s services.
For more information, please visit the official website.
summary
Osaka is a fascinating tourist destination rich in Japanese history and culture, and a special experience for foreign visitors.
In this article, we have introduced experiences and attractions for foreigners to enjoy in Osaka, as well as special traditional cultural experiences for the wealthy.
Traditional culture experiences in Osaka offer a deeper understanding of Japanese culture through special experiences such as tea ceremony, making Japanese sweets, kimono rentals and walks, Japanese dance and drum performances, calligraphy, and ceramics.
These experiences are a great opportunity to experience Osaka’s rich history and modern charm.
Visitors can also enjoy Osaka’s historical background and unique culture at tourist attractions such as Osaka Castle, Tsutenkaku Tower, and Dotonbori.
In addition, we have also introduced a gourmet experience unique to Osaka, where you can enjoy making your own takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Through these experiences, visitors will be able to fully enjoy Osaka’s food culture.
And for foreign visitors, we recommend the special experience programs offered by Motenas Japan.
We offer special traditional cultural experiences not only in Osaka, but also in Kyoto, Tokyo, and other parts of Japan, such as kaiseki cuisine experiences at luxury ryotei restaurants and private tea ceremony experiences.
Click here to contact Motenas Japan
To make your stay in Osaka richer and more special, be sure to visit the experiences and attractions described in this article.
You will be able to experience the charm of Osaka to the fullest.
30代女性ライター。キャンピングカーで家族と日本各地を巡る旅を楽しんでいます。
教員としての経験を活かし、わかりやすく伝えることを心がけています。
日本の文化や魅力を、もっと身近に感じてもらえるよう丁寧に綴っていきます。
