If your child loves aquariums, look no further than Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world's largest aquariums, located inside the Tempozan Harbor village.

Kaiyukan recreates the dense marine biodiversity found around specific regions of the pacific rim. From the dynamic display of whale sharks, to extraordinary showcases of jellyfish to the playful penguins, each exhibition should surely leave any child delighted. The interactive exhibitions are also unique initiatives of Kaiyukan. The display of seals in a room full of chills just like the arctic, should be an experience your child will soon not forget.

Ticket booths tend to get crowded on the day, so it's highly recommended you pre-purchase your tickets prior to your visit. You can also receive a discount for online booking as well.

・Best for ages 3 and up
・Multilingual support: Audio guide (additional fee) available in English, Chinese, and Korean. Leaflets are available in English, Chinese, and Korean. English-speaking staff (on phone). The website has information in English, Korean, Chinese, and Thai.

Looking for a fun and thrilling activity to do with your child in Osaka? Look no further than the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel. This towering landmark, located just a short distance from Kaiyukan, is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Standing at an impressive height of 112.5 meters with a diameter of 100 meters, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel is one of the largest in the world. As your child enjoys an exhilarating ride up in the sky, you can take in the breathtaking panoramic view of Osaka and its surroundings.

If you're looking for a particularly enchanting view of the city, consider riding the Ferris wheel at night when Osaka is lit up in shimmering lights. However, be aware that some of the cabins are transparent and may be intimidating for some children. To ensure a stress-free experience for your child, it's best to avoid these cabins if they are uncomfortable with heights.

・Best for ages 3 and up
・Multilingual support: English and Japanese

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka, located in Tempozan Market Place and within walking distance from Tempozan Harbor Village, is another popular attraction that offers an ideal setting for children who love to flex their creativity.

With over 3 million Lego bricks, this facility boasts 11 exciting attractions, including hands-on lego building workshops, thrilling rides and attractions, magnificent diorama models, and cute Lego-themed lunches and snacks. For Lego enthusiasts and creative minds, this place is truly a paradise.

It's important to note that as of the time of writing, LEGOLAND Discovery Center has restrictions on the number of entries and therefore requires reservations. While tickets can be purchased on the day, it's advisable to pre-book online via their website or through authorized vendors to secure a spot. Moreover, early bird bookings come with discounts, so don't miss out on the opportunity to save some money.

・Best for 3-10 years old
・Multilingual support: English (website and some instructions)

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is an enormous theme park attraction that showcases characters and movies that are beloved worldwide. With Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and more, visitors of all ages can enjoy an endless array of spectacular moments.

Due to its size and abundance of rides, parades, and shows, it's nearly impossible to experience everything USJ has to offer in just one day. Therefore, it's advisable to plan an itinerary ahead of time to maximize your visit.

It's also worth noting that popular attractions often have lengthy wait times. To avoid spending hours in line, purchasing express passes either through their website or an authorized vendor is a smart idea. This applies to shows and parades as well, so if there's a particular attraction you don't want to miss, it's highly recommended that you check out their bundle ticket options.

Additionally, it's also worth taking note that you cannot bring your own food into USJ. Since there are many food stands, cafes and restaurants there, you will definitely not go hungry.

・Best for ages 4 and up

As a parent, I know that finding delicious and kid-friendly food is a top priority when traveling with little ones. That's why no trip to Osaka is complete without trying their famous Takoyaki. These ball-shaped snacks are a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

If you're short on time and can't do a full food tour, I recommend checking out Takopa. Located on the fourth floor of Universal City Walk Osaka, Takopa brings together six of the city's most famous Takoyaki shops. This means you can sample a variety of flavors and styles all in one place.

Each shop offers its unique take on Takoyaki, so there's something for everyone to enjoy. From classic Takoyaki with diced octopus and green onion and other options, you're sure to find something that appeals to your taste buds.

For kids, watching the Takoyaki being prepared is a fun and entertaining experience. The chefs use special Takoyaki grills to cook the snacks, and the flipping and turning of the Takoyaki balls is a spectacle to behold. The toppings, like pickled ginger and bonito flakes, also add an extra layer of excitement and flavor.

Since Takopa is located in a food court-style setting, it's a convenient spot for a family lunch. You can each choose your favorite Takoyaki and then sit down together to enjoy the delicious snacks. Plus, the food court setting means there are plenty of other options available in case anyone in your group is not a Takoyaki fan.

・Best for ages 5 years old and up (Takoyaki is hot with octopus, so it’s important to mind children)
・Multilingual support: Depends on the store

I highly recommend visiting Abeno Harukas during your trip to Osaka. This towering 300m building has been a prominent landmark of the Tennoji area since 2014 and offers plenty of fun activities for the whole family.

One of the highlights of Abeno Harukas is the Harukas 300 Observatory. The experience begins with a thrilling elevator ride that whisks you up to the 58th floor in no time. From there, you can immediately enjoy a breathtaking view of Osaka and its surroundings. Make sure to take plenty of pictures with your little ones to capture this unforgettable moment!

If you're looking for an even more stunning view, head up to the 60th floor. There, you'll get a 360-degree panoramic view that will leave you and your family in awe. The view is especially beautiful during sunset, but be prepared for larger crowds during this time.

For visitors seeking additional excitement, I recommend taking the Harukas 300 Heliport tour. This experience allows you to feel the wind at 300m above ground and gives you a different perspective of the city. However, keep in mind that the tour is recommended for kids aged four and above. On windy days, it can be too intense for younger children, so make sure to check the weather before booking.

・Best for ages 4 and up
・Multilingual support: English, Chinese, Korean (website)

If you're looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Osaka, the Tennoji Zoo within Tennoji Park is just a hop and a skip away from Abeno Harukas. With over a hundred years of history and a World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) seal of approval, Tennoji Zoo is a must-visit destination for families.

From lions to tigers, giraffes to elephants, your kids will have a blast seeing all their favorite animals up close. Plus, the recently added "Friendship Garden" is a wonderful new attraction where your family can get up close and personal with some adorable farm animals.

And when you need a break from all the animal exhibits, Tennoji Park is a great spot for a family picnic. The park is spacious and has plenty of grassy areas to spread out, but be sure to bring a picnic blanket as the number of benches is limited. Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine with your loved ones in this lovely green space.

・Best for ages 3 and up
・Multilingual support: English, Chinese, Korean (website and leaflet)

Just a short walk from Tennoji Park, Ninja-do offers an exciting opportunity for you and your little ones to become real-life ninjas! You'll learn how to master special martial arts moves like the "Shuriken" ninja star and experience what it's like to be a true warrior.

This immersive experience is perfect for kids who love superheroes and action-packed adventures. The instructors are friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring that you and your children have a fun and safe time. At the end of the session, photo opportunities are available, so you can capture the special moment and have a keepsake to treasure forever. Don't miss out on this unique and thrilling activity during your visit to Osaka!

・Best for ages 4 and up
・Multilingual support: English

If you're looking for a taste of old Osaka, Shinsekai is definitely worth a visit. It's a unique neighborhood filled with retro charm and the spirit of Naniwa. One of the must-see attractions here is the Tsutenkaku Observatory Tower, which offers stunning views of the area.

But if you and your child are looking for a little more excitement, don't miss the TOWER SLIDER, a thrilling new addition to the tower. This high-speed slide takes you spiraling down 60 meters alongside the building, offering a rush of adrenaline that your child won't soon forget. However, keep in mind that this ride might not be suitable for all children, as the speed does accelerate as you go. Additionally, there are age, height, and weight restrictions to be aware of, so make sure your child meets the requirements before you plan your visit.

Aside from the tower, Shinsekai also has plenty of other interesting spots to explore, including traditional eateries serving up Osaka's famous Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and other local delicacies. With its unique atmosphere and fun attractions, Shinsekai is a great place to spend a few hours with your family.

・Best for elementary school students and up.
・Multilingual support: Provides English consent forms.

As a parent, I highly recommend taking a trip to Dotonbori during your Osaka stay. The lively waterfront area along the Dotonbori canal is filled with exciting entertainment, delicious food, and drinks. Your family will be fully immersed in the energetic spirit of Osaka!

While you're there, don't miss the chance to strike a pose like the famous Glico runner in front of the iconic billboards. It's a fun photo opportunity that your kids will surely love.

To make your experience even more memorable, consider booking a City Cruise ride. This 90-minute cruise takes you through the Dotonbori and Nakanoshima Business districts, passing under low bridges and through water gates. Your children will love the unique perspective of seeing the bustling neighborhoods from the water. Plus, the night cruise offers a mesmerizing view of the city lit up in neon lights. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience!

As a parent visiting Osaka with your family, it's important to indulge in the local cuisine, especially the flour-based specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. While you can easily find these delicacies around Dotonbori, if you're looking for a unique experience with added entertainment, consider visiting the Kukuru Konamon Museum.

At the museum, you and your kids can not only taste their famous takoyaki, but also learn how to make them with the guidance of a pro. This is a great opportunity to personalize your takoyaki with your favorite fillings, which is especially helpful if you have picky eaters in your group.

In addition to the takoyaki workshop, the museum also offers workshops for making Takoyaki wax samples and Japanese headbands, which make great souvenirs to take home and remember your experience by. Don't miss out on this delicious and interactive adventure during your visit to Osaka! (Experiences and workshops require reservations, either by phone or through their website.)

・Best for ages 5 and up
・Sample making: Weekdays 11:30 a.m. - 7:15 p.m., weekends and holidays 10:30 a.m. - 7:15 p.m.
・Workshops: 2000 yen
・Takoyaki-making experience: 2800 yen
・Choose and make your own Takoyaki: 1500 yen
・Multilingual support: None

You don't want to miss out on Osaka's vibrant merchant culture, which locals proudly call akindo. Although Osaka is renowned for its "kuidaore (eat till you drop)" culture, there are many fantastic shopping districts to discover, including the Don Quijote bargain chain, which has two branches in the Dotonbori area.

The Dotonbori branch is one of the biggest Don Quijote stores in the franchise, and it offers a wide variety of products at reasonable prices. But if your kids aren't thrilled with the prospect of shopping, take them on a ride up the Ebisu Tower on its magnificent wheel. The cabins float around Don Quixote's iconic building, taking you on a 15-minute journey that offers stunning views of Dotonbori's cityscape. With the addition of VR goggles, the experience becomes even more exciting. (Please note that VR goggles are only available for children aged seven and up and are currently closed for maintenance.)

Inside the store, you'll also find tourist information centers, tax-free counters, and a currency exchange station, making it a great stop for parents who need some assistance during their travels. Don Quijote is a one-stop shop that has everything you need and more, so make sure you take advantage of it while in Dotonbori.

・Best for ages 3 and up (*Restrictions apply for ride up the wheel and VR goggles)
・Cabins: 600 yen (*Temporarily closed for maintenance)
・VR Cabins: 1600 yen (7 years and up) (*Temporarily closed for maintenance)
・Multilingual support: English, Chinese, Korean, Thai, and others.

If you're looking to engage your child in Japanese history, then a visit to the Osaka Castle is a must-do activity. Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the 16th century, Osaka Castle has played a significant role in Japanese history, signifying the unity of Japan amidst civil war turmoil.

As you stroll around the exterior of the castle, you'll be impressed by its massive stone walls, citadels, turrets, and moats. After enjoying a walk around the outside, step inside the castle museum, where you can learn about the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of the castle itself. Many exhibits have explanations in English too.

One of the best parts of the museum is that children can check out authentic Samurai armor and other artifacts while seeing models of Osaka Castle in different time periods. They can even try on Samurai-style helmets to get an authentic feel of the era (*currently suspended due to Covid-19). The visit to Osaka Castle is great for kids, as they'll not only have fun exploring a castle full of samurai weaponry and treasures, but they'll also learn about Japanese history in an interactive and immersive way.

・Best for ages 5 and up
・Multilingual support: English, Chinese and Korean (audio set)

Osaka is filled with fun things to do with kids - even at night! As something unique to do with your kids, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is a must-visit. This exhibition is held in Nagai Botanical Garden and is transformed into a breathtaking virtual art experience, making it perfect for kids who love to explore and create. With LED installations illuminating the vast grounds, the experience is truly magical and captivating.

What's more, the interactive features allow kids to fully immerse themselves in the world of teamLab's art. The sensory installations known as Ovoid are especially great for young children, providing a hands-on approach to the exhibits.

It's important to note that the exhibition is held outdoors, so it's best to wear something warm and in the green season, be sure to dress in long sleeves and pants to avoid insect bites. Comfy shoes are also a must, as the garden is quite spacious.

To avoid any last-minute disappointments, make sure to pre-book your tickets. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience that both you and your children will treasure forever!

・Best for elementary school students and up
・Hours: *Depends on the season
・Admission (on the day): 1800 yen (High school students and above) 600 yen (elementary school students/junior high school students), pre-schoolers: free
・Multilingual support: English, Chinese, Korean (website )

A fun and educational place to take your children in Osaka, Kids Plaza Osaka should definitely be on your list. This unique museum, located in Kita Ward, focuses on child education through play.

Your children will have the chance to explore different exhibitions and workshops, each designed to ignite their creativity and expand their knowledge. Whether they want to try their hand at being in a TV studio or explore the science section with a real-life fish pond, there's something for everyone.

In addition, the creativity floor offers a digital experience, and there's even a huge playground designed by Austrian artist Freidensreich Hundertwasser. It's a fantastic opportunity for your children to learn while having fun in a safe and engaging environment. Plus, there are plenty of hands-on activities that will make the experience memorable for everyone.

・Best for ages 3 and up
・Multilingual support: English / Chinese / Korean (website and pamphlets)

The Osaka Science & Technology Center (OSTEC) is definitely worth a visit for a fun and educational activity for your kids. This high-tech museum is located in Honmachi, Nishi Ward, and showcases some of the latest technology from around 30 of Japan's leading companies and organizations.

At OSTEC, your kids will have the chance to explore five different themes: Energy, Exploring New Materials, Information and Images, Happy Life, and Observing the Earth. Each exhibit covers important topics that are relevant to our world today and are designed to be both informative and engaging.

But that's not all! The museum also offers interactive activities that allow kids to experiment with cutting-edge technology, such as driving simulators and health club technology, which combines play and learning in a fun way.

・Best for ages 5 and up
・Multilingual support: None

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Osaka city - head north to some of the city's gorgeous parks, where your children can play in nature and soak in some fresh air.

One such park that you should definitely check out is Expo'70 Commemorative Park, located in Suita City. This 260-hectare park was established on the former site of the 1970 World Exposition held in Japan and is renowned for its stunning Japanese and Cultural Garden, as well as the iconic "Tower of the Sun" sculpture created by Taro Okamoto.

But that's not all - the park also boasts a range of athletic activities that are perfect for kids who love playing outdoors. From a giant real-life maze to mega-size athletic equipment, a variety of playgrounds to swan boats, there's no shortage of fun to be had here!

However, please keep in mind that some of the athletic equipment is geared towards older children, and may have certain age and other requirements that your child needs to meet before they can participate. Additionally, many of these activities may not have multilingual support or consent forms available, so be sure to check ahead of time. See details on the official website.

・Best for ages 3 and up *Depends on the activity
・Multilingual support: English, Chinese, Korean (website)

An inspiring and unique attraction to take your children in Osaka, NIFREL is a great choice for parents. This indoor facility is located within the massive ExpoCity shopping complex, near the Expo'70 Commemorative Park.

NIFREL is an interactive aquazoo that combines the features of a zoo and aquarium with mesmerizing art installations. The futuristic and creative displays are divided into eight sections, each showcasing different aspects of wildlife, including aquatic and land creatures.

This makes for a great opportunity for kids to experience the animal kingdom in a brand new light and further develop their interest in nature. Plus, since it's an indoor facility, it provides a perfect refuge on rainy or sweltering hot days.

With so much to see and do at NIFREL, your children are sure to have an exciting and educational time. Be sure to check out their website for tickets and hours of operation before your visit.

・Best ages 3 and up
・Multilingual support: English / Chinese / Korean (website and leaflet)

Are you aware that the famous instant ramen product, Chicken Ramen, was created in Osaka's Ikeda City? If not, you can learn all about it at the CUP NOODLES MUSEUM Osaka Ikeda. This museum is a great destination for families, offering an immersive experience into the history and evolution of instant noodles. You can explore several interactive exhibits and even see a replica of the "Work Shed" where Chicken Ramen was invented.

The museum also features a tunnel showcasing over 800 types of noodle packaging, a fun and informative walk that might make you crave some noodles! Thankfully, you can satisfy your cravings right there at the museum.

You and your children can create your own original cup noodles, complete with your favorite flavors and toppings, or even make your own Chicken Ramen from scratch in the Chicken Ramen Factory (prior booking required). Please note that the factory experiences are incredibly popular, so you may need to wait or book in advance to secure a slot.

・Best for elementary school students and up
・Multilingual support: English and Chinese (audio set *temporarily unavailable); English guidance available on official mobile app

If you're looking for a thrilling adventure with your children, then you definitely don't want to miss out on Hirakata Park in Osaka. This incredible theme park offers more than 40 different types of attractions that are suitable for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect destination for a family outing. Whether you're looking for a thrilling roller coaster ride, a spooky haunted house experience, a leisurely merry-go-round, or a dizzying spin on the tea cups, you're sure to find plenty of fun activities to enjoy together.

One of the great things about Hirakata Park is that you have the flexibility to choose how you want to experience the park. You can either pay for each ride separately, or opt for a free access pass that gives you unlimited access to all rides. If you're planning to hit up all the rides, then the all-access pass is definitely worth considering as it can save you some money. So get ready for a day filled with excitement and thrills at Hirakata Park!

If you want to take a break away from all the hype, the park also has a gorgeous rose garden, which goes into full bloom in spring and autumn.

・Best for ages 2 and up
・Multilingual support: English /Chinese/Korean (website)

While the party in Osaka may seem to concentrate near the city, if you are staying in the south and looking for something to do with your kids there, consider checking out Little Planet, the digital theme park located inside the popular Lalaport Izumi shopping mall.

This cutting-edge facility offers a wealth of virtual entertainment options, from AR sand play and digital paper sumo wrestling to engaging number games and more. Little Planet's innovative activities combine traditional play with the latest advancements in digital technology, providing a unique and immersive experience for kids of all ages.

Additionally, if you and your family need a break from the excitement, Little Planet features a relaxing space where visitors can kick off their shoes and unwind. This peaceful corner is a great place to catch your breath and recharge before diving back into the excitement.

・Best for ages 2 and up
・Multilingual support: English instructions

Finding your way around big cities typically involves multiple transfers on public transport, especially trains.

In the case of traveling in Osaka with family, two of the vital local transportation cards you should have handy are the ICOCA IC Card and the Osaka Metro pass.

The ICOCA IC Card is a stored value card that you can charge and then use to tap ticket gates (on entry/exit) instead of buying paper tickets. They can also be used at many stores and even many vending machines, so you and the kids don’t need to deal with making correct change.

Even if you have a Japan Rail Pass, the ICOCA card is worth getting as it can be used on non-JR trains as well as the Osaka Metro and buses.

With an Osaka Metro pass, you get unlimited travel on the Osaka Metro (subways and buses) for either 1 or 2 days. The pass also provides you with discounts to popular tourist sites, shops and restaurants, including some of the popular places to visit with children.

Accessibility around Osaka is relatively streamlined, but traveling on public transport is always a stressful process, more so with children who are very prone to get lost. In order to mitigate risks and reduce stress factors, these transportation cards are must-have items when traveling with children around Osaka.

Parents should also know that Osaka Metro is fitted with free Wi-Fi. Google Maps also works well with Osaka public transport, and you’ll discover that when asking for directions, the app will often provide the optimum train car number for getting to your destination.

Finally, many subway stations in Japan will also have maps showing a list of stations and the train cars to get into for the quickest access to an escalator or elevator. This can be a huge help to avoid stairs (or even act as a game to keep kids engaged in the trip).

While Osaka boasts great food culture, satisfying picky eaters is another story. To make life easier for parents, here are some places you can count on for meals any child will happily eat.

・Family restaurants: There are many family-friendly restaurants offering a variety of foods every member of the family would enjoy. Saizeriya is a popular family restaurant serving Italian food, such as delicious pizzas, pasta, salads, soups, and more, for more familiar flavors.

・Food Courts: Many of the major Osaka shopping malls have impressive food courts, friendly for families with children. Two major shopping center brands are Aeon and LaLaport, and at these, you’ll find a great food court with all kinds of food and drinks to choose from. Food courts usually have washbasins and child-friendly seatings, which makes life easier for parents.

Everyone likes a bargain! Why pay the full price when you can save from purchasing tickets on a bundle? Traveling could cost you a leg and arm if it's not done right, especially if you have children, so here are some good deals for you to consider that could help you save.

Klook Pass
The Klook Pass offers you access to some of Osaka’s famous attractions with an overall discount of 43%. With this single ticket you can visit several children’s favorites such as Legoland Discovery Center Osaka, Little Planet Lalaport Izumi, Harukas 300 Observatory and more!

Osaka Amazing Pass
Osaka Amazing Pass is an all-inclusive pass that grants you unlimited travel on Osaka’s subway, tramways and buses. Additionally, you can use it to get discounts at around 50 of Osaka’s popular attraction sites, restaurants and shops, so you’ll be saving both time and money!

Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing pass
If you plan on visiting both Osaka and Kyoto, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing pass is a time-saving ticket which grants you unlimited travel access on the Keihan line and Otokoyama cable car for 1 or 2 non-consecutive days. With this pass you can reach popular sites such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Osaka Castle and more!