Destination guide

Osaka – lived-in, lively Japan

Osaka is a dose of the real Japan. Gritty blocks that flicker with neon signs and thrum to the rhythm of thousands of humans moving in and out of manga emporiums and ramen stands make up the happening Minami district – a fine place for Osaka vacation rentals if you really want to be in the thick of things. Chic fashion malls converge on beeping gaming arcades in the Kita area, while industrial relics loom atop Tennoji, hiding temples and kitschy restaurants between its blocks. Then comes Osaka Castle, the old home of great shoguns, with wide-gabled terraces and gold-glimmering statues.

Things to do

Shoguns and blossoms in Osaka

If you've come to Japan for enrapturing tales of shogun battles and great empires, you certainly won't be disappointed by the exhibits that await at Osaka Castle. This handsome reconstruction of a centuries-old citadel is now home to collections that chronicle wars and sieges and the lives of Osaka's historic leaders. It's also an amazing place for hanami – viewing the cherry blossom in spring. And there's a prestigious shrine to see, dedicated to the revered unifier of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

Activities

Taste your way through Osaka

Don't underestimate Osaka's ability to set the taste buds a-tingling. There are plenty of reasons why the metropolis is hailed as Japan's culinary capital. It's got a cornucopia of delights to offer, with mackerel-packed sushi rolls and butter-fried cabbage cakes topped with cheese, panko-crusted meat skewers charred in street stalls and griddled octopuses wedged into dumplings. You can join guided food tours to explore the bustling food markets. Or, go for gold – try your hand at the celebrated Osakan kitchen with a cooking class run by locals.

Weather

Spring blooms and fall weather in Osaka

Springtime reigns supreme in this part of Japan. Months like March, April and May are perfect for sightseeing expeditions and shopping sprees. They have pleasant daily temperatures and oodles of sunshine, not to mention the iconic cherry blossom – you should be certain to book early and seek out Osaka vacation rentals close to Osaka Castle for that. Fall is another popular time to visit. Months like September and October also have mild weather that's great for urban exploration.

Natural features

Escaping the metropolis of Osaka

The vast cityscape of Osaka is surrounded by yet more cityscapes. They cluster around the edges of town to the north, east and south, creating a maze of urban streets where the only taste of nature comes courtesy of blossoming parks like the one encircling Osaka Castle. Alternatively, book your Osaka vacation rental close to the rising peaks of Mino. That's where locals go for an escape to the wilds. It's clad in beautiful maple forests, carved by ribbon-like waterfalls and spotted with mystical woodland shrines. Just beware of the monkeys…

How to get there

Transportation options to and around Osaka

Fly into Osaka (ITM-Itami), the closest airport, located 6.9 mi (11.2 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Kobe (UKB), which is 15.8 mi (25.4 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, Osaka Umeda Station, Osaka Station and Osaka Nakatsu Station are the main stations that serve the city. It's easy to get around Osaka by catching a ride on the metro at Higashi-Umeda Station, Umeda Station or Nishi-Umieda Station.

How many vacation rentals are available around Osaka, JP?

Our 2019 property listings offer a large selection of 907 vacation rentals around Osaka. From 609 condo and apartment rentals to 248 house rentals, find a unique house rental for you to enjoy a memorable holiday or a weekend with your family and friends.

What is the best area to stay when traveling to Osaka?

Whether you're traveling with family or friends, here are the areas with the largest selection of vacation rentals for a holiday trip or just for a weekend in Osaka:

  • Higashinari Ward: 94 vacation rentals
  • Minami: 535 vacation rentals
  • Dotonbori: 236 vacation rentals
  • Namba: 415 vacation rentals
  • Shinimazato: 34 vacation rentals

For other neighborhoods, please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available.

What are the popular point of interests near where I can stay when traveling to Osaka?

Vrbo offers a large selection of vacation rentals near lovely places in Osaka. From Vrbo travelers, the top most popular points of interest to stay for a holiday trip or just for a weekend are:

  • Osaka Namba Station: 936 vacation rentals
  • Osaka Station: 935 vacation rentals
  • Shin-Osaka Station: 937 vacation rentals
  • Universal Studios Japan®: 894 vacation rentals
  • Osaka Station City: 937 vacation rentals

But there are many other points of interest around Osaka listed on Vrbo where you can find your place to stay. Please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available near the point of interest of your choice.

Can I rent Condos/Apartments in Osaka?

Yes, of course. Vrbo has 609 Condos/Apartments in Osaka. Our other popular types of vacation rentals in Osaka include:

  • Houses: 248 rentals available
  • Studios: 600 rentals available
  • Hotels: 28 rentals available

But you can also enjoy a great stay in one of our other vacation rentals including Guest houses and more.

Can I find a vacation rental with internet/wifi in Osaka?

Yes, you can select your preferred vacation rental with internet/wifi among our 780 vacation rentals with internet/wifi available in Osaka. Please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available.

    Explore destinations around Osaka

    Kyoto
    549 vacation rentals
    Kobe
    200 vacation rentals
    Suminoe
    889 vacation rentals
    Nara
    58 vacation rentals
    Neyagawa
    766 vacation rentals
    Nishiyodogawa Ward
    891 vacation rentals
    Uji
    537 vacation rentals
    Otsu
    541 vacation rentals
    Kizugawa
    34 vacation rentals
    Takatsuki
    815 vacation rentals
    Takarazuka
    172 vacation rentals
    Kameoka
    540 vacation rentals
    Hirakata
    452 vacation rentals
    Higashiosaka
    926 vacation rentals
    Nagaokakyo
    535 vacation rentals
    Sakai
    864 vacation rentals
    Suita
    888 vacation rentals
    Kashiwara
    733 vacation rentals
    Amagasaki
    867 vacation rentals
    Toyonaka
    895 vacation rentals