Cheap Flights to Osaka

What are the best things to do in Osaka?

Osaka Castle

This city centre attraction is one of the most famous landmarks you’ll see while visiting Japan on return flights to Osaka. The five-tier castle was built in 1583 and was meant to be the symbol of a unified Japan under Toyotomi rule. Unfortunately Osaka Castle wasn’t the symbol of peace it was intended to be as several battles took place there during the 17th century. The castle got damaged but was restored in the 1930s; keeping the original exterior elements and modernising the castle inside. Plan a visit to Osaka Castle after booking flights to Osaka to see the Nishinomaru Gardens, historical artefacts inside the Osaka Castle Museum, and the view offered from the castle’s observation deck.

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

There are several temples and shrines to visit in between return flights to Osaka, and Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of the most impressive. The shrine was founded in the 3rd century, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. It’s also the main Sumiyoshi shrine of more than 2,000 across Japan. There are several elements to see while touring Sumiyoshi Taisha: four main halls, Sumiyoshi Torii Gate, and the iconic Saruhashi Bridge. Locals and visitors flock to the shrine on 1 January each year for a ceremony marking the new year, which you can join in on if your cheap flights to Osaka coincide.

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum

Ramen is one of Japan’s most popular dishes, and you can’t leave Osaka without trying some. But did you know you can also learn about the backstory and importance of ramen while holidaying on flights to Osaka? The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum chronicles the story of instant ramen since it was first created by local Momofuku Ando in 1958. Wander through exhibits to learn about the early years of instant ramen, how it’s manufactured, and how Momofuku Ando’s recipe became famous around the world. You can also pop into the My CUPNOODLES Factory to design and eat your own ramen with customised flavours and toppings.

What is the best way to get around Osaka?

There are plenty of transport options available from the moment you touch down on flights to Osaka. Catch the Osaka Monorail if you arrive at Osaka International Airport (ITM), then connect to the city’s metro. The JR Haruka airport express train is the best option if your flights land at Kansai International Airport (KIX). This train travels between the airport and city centre where you can connect to other transport options to reach your hotel.

The metro is the most extensive form of public transport and is the best way to get around while holidaying on return flights to Osaka. It’s spread across nine lines between the city centre and surrounding suburbs. The Midosuji and Chuo lines are best for tourists who book airfare to Osaka as they travel to many of the city’s top attractions.

Japan Rail also operates throughout Osaka. Most JR routes travel into the outer suburbs and connect Osaka with nearby cities, such as Kyoto and Kobe. There’s also the JR Osaka Loop Line, which is a good way to get around while visiting Japan on cheap flights to Osaka. It circles around to 19 city centre stations with access to major landmarks.

Finally, the Monorail is another option to keep in mind when you book tickets to Osaka. It travels primarily through the outer suburbs with 18 stations spread across two lines.

What should I pack for Osaka?

Don’t forget to pack a plug adapter while preparing for your flights to Osaka. Japanese power points accept plug types A and B.

Make sure you pack comfortable shoes, especially ones that are easy to slip on and off. It’s customary to remove shoes while visiting someone’s house, temples, and some traditional restaurants. You should also avoid wearing shoes inside if you book apartment-style accommodation to go with your airfare to Osaka.

The clothing you pack depends on the time of year you book tickets to Osaka for. Summer is warm and calls for lightweight clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. An umbrella also comes in handy if you book summer flights to Osaka as there’s some rain this time of year. Daytime temperatures are often comfortable in autumn and spring, but it cools down in the evenings. Bring along clothes that you can layer and a warm coat to wear at night. Pack plenty of warm clothing when you book cheap flights to Osaka in winter – pants, jumpers, boots, a hat, a scarf, and a warm coat are all winter essentials in Japan.