Welcome to the lively city of Osaka, where even rainy days offer an abundance of excitement! While some might see gloomy weather as a deterrent to travel, it’s an invitation to explore a new world of fun and adventure here in Osaka. From a host of exhilarating indoor experiences, there’s no shortage of delightful activities to brighten your day. Why not join us as we uncover the best ways to make the most of rainy days in Osaka?
Kaiyukan – Photo Credit: Kaiyukan.com
Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium
Let’s discover the ocean together at Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium, hailed as one of Osaka’s most captivating attractions. With over 15 expansive tanks, the Kaiyukan draws in visitors with its diverse displays and exhibits. The highlight has to be the “Pacific Ocean” tank, home to majestic whale sharks. Visitors can also engage in feeding sessions, offering insights into incredible wildlife behavior. Tickets are priced at 2,700 yen for visitors aged 16 and above, and opening hours vary, so be sure to check the schedule. Rain or shine, the Kaiyukan welcomes visitors year-round to explore its wonders.
Location: 8-minute walk from Osakako Station on the Chuo line [MAP]
Date and Time: Weekdays 10:30 am-8:00 pm, Weekends 9:30 am- 8:00 pm
Fee: Starting price at 2,700 yen for adults, 1,400 yen for children, and 700 yen for children under 3 years old.
VS Park – Photo Credit: Handshin-exp
VS Park
VS Park in Lalaport Expocity, situated in Suita, Osaka, is an indoor wonderland where visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of exhilarating VR activities. From heart-pounding adventures to adrenaline-fueled challenges, this facility guarantees an unforgettable experience. It’s definitely a haven for those who enjoy interactive entertainment and thrive on competition. Prices at VS Park may vary depending on the season, with peak times seeing a slight increase in rates, however, it typically starts from 3000 yen for adult visitors. Whether you’re familiar or not to VR experiences, VS Park promises entertainment for all!
Location: 7-minute walk from Bampakukinenkouen station on the Osaka monorail [MAP]
Date and time: Weekdays 10:00-20:00 (Last entry time 19:00)
Saturday 10:00-21:00 (last entry time 20:00)
Sundays and holidays 9:00-21:00 (last entry time 20:00)
Fee: Starting price from 3000 yen, will vary depending on seasons.
Mister Donuts – Photo Credit: mamaoasis
Mister Donut Museum
Located within the Duskin Museum in Osaka lies a mouth-watering gem known as the Mister Donut Museum, a space for lovers of delectable treats. Amidst the exploration of Osaka’s cleaning wonders of Duskin, visitors can also indulge in the sweet delights of Mister Donut, one of Japan’s most beloved donut chains. The Mister Donut Museum offers an immersive experience of the process and history of the donut company. Visitors can even make reservations in advance for the opportunity to craft and decorate their own personalized donuts, adding an interactive element to their visit.
Location: 15-minute walk from Esaka Station on the Midosuji line [MAP]
Date and time: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, closed on Monday
Fee: Free, however, some activities may require an extra fee
Instant Noodle on show at the Cup Noodle Museum – Photo Credit: Nippon.com
Cup Noodle Museum
The Osaka Cup Noodle Museum offers a fun walk through the fascinating history of cup ramen. Visitors can traverse through the evolution of this beloved convenience food, from its humble beginnings to its global popularity today. The museum provides an immersive experience where visitors can join in on a variety of interactive activities, including the opportunity to craft and customize their own cup of ramen. While admission to the museum is free, there is a fee for those eager to partake in the hands-on activities, so check out their website for more details.
Location: 5-minute walk from Ikeda station on the Hankyu, Takarazuka Main Line [MAP]
Date and Time: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Fee: Free admission, fee required for specific activities
Visitors taking a stroll through a simulation of old Japan – Photo Credit: Bing
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living offers visitors a captivating journey through Japan’s architectural evolution. Walking into this museum feels like stepping back in time, as guests are immersed in life-sized simulations of old Japan. From meticulously recreated streets to traditional houses, the museum provides a vivid depiction of historical Japanese living. Through interactive exhibits and informative displays, guests can explore the fascinating advancements in Japanese architecture. Whether wandering through Edo-period streets or experiencing the transition to modern living, the museum offers a rich and immersive experience that brings history to life.
Location: 9-minute walk from Tenma station on the Osaka loop line [MAP]
Date and time: Open every day except a Tuesday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Fee: 600 yen for adults, 300 yen for students
Inside the playing ground of Kids Plaza – Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
Kids Plaza Osaka
Kids Plaza Osaka is a haven for families seeking adventure and education under one roof. This immersive indoor experience offers children the opportunity to learn through play in a variety of interactive exhibitions. From science and technology to art and culture, there’s something to trigger the curiosity of every child. Kids are encouraged to engage, explore, and discover in a safe and stimulating environment. With its diverse range of exhibits and activities, Kids Plaza Osaka is the perfect getaway on a rainy day, providing hours of entertainment and learning for families and children alike.
Location 3-minute walk from Tenma station on the Osaka loop line [MAP]
Date and time: Open every day except the second and third Monday of each month from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
Fee: 1,400yen Adults, 800 yen for Elementary and Junior High students, 500 yen for Preschoolers
In conclusion, Osaka offers a wide range of engaging activities that are sure to make the most of any day even when it rains. So even when the weather doesn’t cooperate, visitors are still able to make the absolute most of their time whilst traveling through the city. Whether you want to dive headfirst into the beauty and wonder of the underwater world at Kaiyukan or discover an immersive VR experience like none other at VS Park, there is something guaranteed for all! Taking refuge in the city’s numerous museums and shopping arcades will still allow visitors to experience the Japan they dreamed of. So even if it seems a little gloomy, do not fret as rainy days in Osaka can still offer a chance to discover the city’s diverse offerings memorably.
Want to have more fun on your trip to Osaka? Join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local!
Feature photo credit: Gena Okami
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