Osaka is welcoming the world – and making it easier to savor what locals already love. Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai opened on Yumeshima this spring, with the Osaka Metro Chūō Line extension delivering trains directly to the island and new wayfinding, plazas and family-oriented cultural activities offering plenty upon arrival (hence the #19 ranking for Family-Friendly Attractions). North of Osaka Station, the long-planned Umekita Phase 2 (branded Grand Green Osaka) keeps growing with an 11-acre central park already open and the first residences, luxury hotel and street-level retail targeting a 2027 opening. The result: more reasons to explore a skyline that mixes Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building, which helps the #27 Sights & Landmarks ranking.
Food still rules here, indicated by the #22 Restaurants ranking. Expect fresh counters and chef tables around Dojima and at the new Four Seasons Hotel Osaka, while street eats like takoyaki and okonomiyaki keep Kansai comfort at arm’s reach. Universal Studios Japan’s Super Nintendo World expansion (Donkey Kong Country) is now in full swing, turbocharging family itineraries and search interest (Osaka ranks #17 for Google Trends).
And with a global Top 20 Biking ranking, the city keeps stitching safe riverside links along Nakanoshima and the Yodogawa embankments to complement expanding bike share programs.