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2024 Guide to Reopened and New Attractions & Tourist Spots in Osaka

2024 Guide to Reopened and New Attractions & Tourist Spots in Osaka

Last updated: 22 February 2024

In Osaka, in anticipation of the Osaka-Kansai Expo set to take place in 2025, there's rapid development underway focused on the city center. This includes enhancements to highways and railway infrastructure, as well as the development of hotels, office districts, and shopping areas.

Check out the exciting new spots in Osaka, including "Grand Green Osaka" by Osaka Station, "KITTE Osaka" at the site of a former post office, and the new "Donkey Kong Country" area at Universal Studios Japan. With several new facilities opening up, Osaka is becoming an even more appealing destination. Here's a roundup of the latest hotspots in Osaka.

Table of Contents
  1. New Opens in 2023
  2. Facilities to be opened and renovated in 2024

New Opens in 2023

New Opens in 2023

Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Kadoma - A New Destination for Shopping and Leisure in Osaka (Opened Fall 2023)

Title: "Fall 2023 Opening: The Easily Accessible Mixed-Use Shopping Complex, Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Kadoma"

Description: On April 17, 2023, the large shopping area Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Kadoma opened its doors near Keihan Electric Railway's Kadoma City Station. Situated in Kadoma City, Osaka Prefecture, this location boasts excellent accessibility from both Osaka and Kyoto within an hour. Unlike typical suburban outlets that are hard to reach by train, this facility is notably easy to access by rail, which is a significant advantage.

This facility is a hybrid complex combining Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Kadoma with Mitsui Outlet Park, allowing for a diverse shopping and dining experience. Visitors can also unwind in shared spaces such as Kusunoki Plaza and Sky Plaza.

The shopping park houses 153 stores, offering a wide range of activities, from play areas like Sumikko Gurashi Play Studio and Ultra Athletic to various shops including goods stores like Can Do and Thank You Mart, and fashion outlets such as Uniqlo and Lowrys Farm. With cafes such as gelato pique cafe and LOGOS CAFE & HIROBA, along with a selection of gourmet eateries serving sushi, takoyaki, and more, dining options are abundant and varied.

At the outlet park, 96 stores come together, featuring sports brands like Champion, PUMA, and Adidas, as well as fashion brands for both men and women, including FURLA, COACH, and Paul Smith. Additionally, the opportunity to purchase high-end brand products at lower prices is a unique advantage of shopping at an outlet.

Facilities to be opened and renovated in 2024

DAISO Complex Store - A First in the Osaka Area with Three Unique Shops (Opens January 26, 2024)

DAISO Complex Store - A First in the Osaka Area with Three Unique Shops (Opens January 26, 2024)

On January 26, 2024, the Osaka area will welcome its first complex store in the Umeda DT Tower's second basement floor, near the Diamor Osaka underground mall directly linked to JR Osaka Station. This complex brings together the popular 100-yen shop DAISO and its sister stores, Standard Products and THREEPPY, offering a unique blend of affordability and style.

Unlike the traditional 100-yen shop model, this complex introduces a diverse shopping experience with Standard Products and THREEPPY presenting a selection of stylish and practical items at various price points. Standard Products stands out with its ethos of providing quality goods that seamlessly fit into everyday life, catering to all ages and genders. With a focus on sustainability and addressing environmental concerns, the store showcases products made from domestic and responsibly sourced wood, along with collaborative items celebrating Japanese craftsmanship and industries.

  • Umeda DT Tower
    梅田DTタワー
    • Address B2F, 1-10 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001
    • ・Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM
      ・Closed: No regular holidays, occasional closures

Minoo Q's Mall STATION Building - New Shopping Destination (Opens March 23, 2024)

Minoo Q's Mall STATION Building - New Shopping Destination (Opens March 23, 2024)

On March 23, 2024, the beloved family shopping destination Minoo Q's Mall, located in Minoo City known for the famous Minoo Waterfall, will expand with the addition of the new STATION building. This expansion coincides with the opening of the new Minoo Kayano Station on the Kita-Osaka Kyuko Railway, enhancing accessibility in anticipation of the Osaka-Kansai World Expo.

The STATION building, directly connected to the new station, promises easy access and introduces a bus rotary for seamless connectivity with other areas. Featuring 31 stores, the new section embraces the concept of "Brightening everyday life with a touch of luxury." It will house a variety of establishments, including Biople by Cosmekitchen, a natural supermarket focusing on organic products, and unique cafes and restaurants such as Minamen Cafe, Kamatake Udon, and Soup Stock Tokyo, offering casual dining options.

Additionally, new lifestyle and cosmetics shops like Tree of Life, Midori no Zakka-ya, and Shop In will make their debut, offering a range of goods not previously available at Minoo Q's Mall.

  • Minoo Q's Mall
    みのおキューズモール
    • Address 1-17-22 Nishi-juku, Mino-shi, Osaka 562-0034
    • Nearest Station Access: Approximately 15 minutes by Hankyu Bus bound for Senri Chuo, get off at "Kayanochuo" bus stop, 3 minutes walk from the bus stop
    • Phone Number 072-729-1090
    • ・Hours: Vary by floor. Please check the official website for details.
      ・Closed: No regular holidays, occasional closures
      ・Multilingual Support: Facility signage is available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. (*Staff language support varies by store.)

Murasaki Park Expocity - Japan's Largest Indoor Skatepark Opens (April 6, 2024)

Murasaki Park Expocity - Japan's Largest Indoor Skatepark Opens (April 6, 2024)

Set to open on April 6, 2024, at LaLaport EXPOCITY in Suita City, Osaka, near the site of the 1970 World Expo in Expo Memorial Park, Murasaki Park Expocity marks the debut of Japan's largest indoor skatepark. This innovative facility combines a vast skatepark with a Murasaki Sports store, offering a unique blend of sports and retail experiences.

The skatepark features a main skate area designed for both competitions and events, equipped with air conditioning and beginner-friendly flat spaces to ensure a welcoming environment for newcomers to skateboarding. Additional areas, including a mini-ramp and mini-bowl area as well as a kids' athletic and trampoline zone, cater to a wide range of ages, making it a versatile venue for family fun and serious skaters alike.

The attached Murasaki Sports store spans an impressive 660 square meter space, making it one of the largest sports stores in western Japan. It offers an extensive selection of skateboards, BMX bikes, snowboards, surfboards, sportswear, and shoes, boasting one of the largest inventories in the region.

  • Murasaki Park LaLaport EXPOCITY
    ムラサキパーク ららぽーとEXPOCITY
    • Address 2-1 Senri Banpaku Koen, Suita-shi, Osaka 565-0826
    • Nearest Station Access: 2 minutes walk from Banpaku Kinenkoen Station on the Osaka Monorail Saito Line, 2 minutes walk from Banpaku Kinenkoen Station on the Osaka Monorail Line

Donkey Kong Country at USJ - Thrilling New Ride Attraction Opens This Spring (2024)

(From TV CM)
(From TV CM)

Universal Studios Japan, a beloved theme park in Osaka, is home to the popular SUPER NINTENDO WORLD area. This spring, the world-renowned game franchise "Donkey Kong" will expand its presence with the opening of "Donkey Kong Country" within this area. Anticipation has been building, especially since the release of two new television commercials on December 22, 2023, signaling an exciting new addition to the park's attractions.

(From TV commercial) "Scale Up with the addition of Donkey Kong Country!
(From TV commercial) "Scale Up with the addition of Donkey Kong Country!

Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan is gearing up to launch the world's very first Donkey Kong-themed zone, "Donkey Kong Country." This groundbreaking expansion introduces the thrilling "Donkey Kong's Crazy Mine Cart" ride, promising an adventure filled with speed and excitement. Beyond the ride, the "PLAY WILD! Challenge" adds an engaging layer to the experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a physical game that replicates playing Donkey Kong's in-game musical instrument, the "Tonga." The area won't just stop at attractions; it will also offer a range of exclusive Donkey Kong-themed food and merchandise, drawing guests deeper into the game's rich world.

The unveiling of "Donkey Kong Country" means SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will grow by 1.7 times its current size, significantly boosting the park's appeal and delivering an even more thrilling and immersive visitor experience.

  • Universal Studios Japan
    ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパン
    • Address 2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka City, Osaka 554-0031
    • ・Hours: Please check the official website for details.
      ・Fees: 8,600 yen and up
      ・Closed: No regular holidays
      ・Access: 3 minutes walk from JR Yumesaki Line Universal City Station
      ・Multilingual Support: English, Korean, and Chinese available

Tennoji Mio Spring Renewal - Nearly 50 New Stores Focusing on Fashion (Spring 2024)

Tennoji Mio Spring Renewal - Nearly 50 New Stores Focusing on Fashion (Spring 2024)

Directly connected to JR Tennoji Station, Tennoji Mio is a premier shopping destination in the Abeno-Tennoji area, offering easy access from Kansai Airport and the JR Shin-Osaka Station for Shinkansen users. Known for being a central spot for both fashion and food, it introduced 30 new shops from February to April 2023. In Spring 2024, Tennoji Mio is set to undergo a further renewal, adding approximately 50 more stores to its lineup.

This spring's renewal will place a greater emphasis on fashion, featuring the opening of 13 fashion-related shops, including select stores like Freak's Store, accessory shops like Lattice, eyewear specialists Kaneko Optical, and footwear icons Dr. Martens.

But it's not all about fashion; other diverse shops are also set to open. A limited-time JUMP SHOP will offer official licensed merchandise from popular Weekly Shonen Jump titles, including ONE PIECE and Dragon Ball. For relaxation and dining, new additions include Raffine for massages with aromatherapy, P.G.D. for innovative donuts, and Akagakiya, a unique standing bar originating in Osaka, ensuring that Tennoji Mio will offer a rich variety of options for visitors.

  • TENNOJI MIO
    • Address 10-39, Hidenincho, Tennouji-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 543-0055
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Tennouji Station (JR Kansai Main Line / JR Yamatoji Line / JR Osaka Loop Line / JR Hanwa Line)
      1 minute on foot
    • Phone Number 06-6770-1000

KITTE Osaka: A Hub for Japanese Gourmet & Souvenirs (Opening in July 2024)

KITTE Osaka: A Hub for Japanese Gourmet & Souvenirs (Opening in July 2024)

In the heart of Osaka, near the bustling Osaka Station, a new commercial facility, KITTE Osaka, is set to open in July 2024. This exciting development is happening in the west district of Osaka Station, on the site of the former Osaka Central Post Office, amid ongoing construction of shopping facilities and hotels.

Spanning from the basement level to the sixth floor of the JP Tower Osaka, KITTE Osaka is embracing the concept of "UNKNOWN." This theme aims to gather products and services that are yet to be discovered or experienced, offering visitors a chance to explore and reacquaint themselves with the best Japan has to offer.

The basement level will feature "Umeyoko," a dining area offering a range of casual eateries including cafes, delis, and sweet shops. It will also showcase Osaka's local delicacies such as kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables), takoyaki (octopus balls), and hormone yaki (grilled offal), along with restaurants serving a variety of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes, some of which are making their Kansai region debut.

The second floor will be dedicated to "Feel JAPAN Journey," an area focused on showcasing the charm of different regions across Japan through their local products and tourist attractions. Shops representing everything from Hokkaido to Okinawa will be gathered here, including regional antenna shops and temporary pop-up stores, allowing visitors to embark on a journey through Japan's diverse cultures and flavors right in the heart of Osaka.

  • KITTE Osaka
    KITTE 大阪
    • Address 3-2-2 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 530-0001
    • ・Hours: Vary by floor. Please check the official website for details.
      ・Access: Directly connected to JR Osaka Station

Grand Green Osaka: A Unified Commercial, Hotel, and Park Development (Opening in Autumn 2024)

Grand Green Osaka: A Unified Commercial, Hotel, and Park Development (Opening in Autumn 2024)

In the Umeda Station area of "Umekita," a key transport hub in Kansai, the Grand Green Osaka development is underway. This ambitious project seamlessly integrates a variety of facilities including parks, hotels, commercial spaces, residences, and event areas, all accessible via underground passages and a deck known as the "Path of Inspiration," maintaining easy access to Osaka Station.

Scheduled for completion over several years, Grand Green Osaka will see the phased opening of "Umekita Park," an urban park directly connected to the station, starting with certain areas in September 2024. Once fully opened, the development will enhance connectivity to nearby shopping and commercial facilities such as Umeda Sky Building, LUCUA, and LUCUA 1100.

Umekita Park will be divided into a North Park and a South Park, with the latter set to feature expansive lawns and event spaces suitable for live performances and other events. Despite its urban location, the park aims to offer natural experiences, including areas where visitors can enjoy waterfalls and autumn foliage, creating a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

  • Grand Green Osaka
    グラングリーン大阪
    • Address Ohfuka-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0011, Japan

As Osaka gears up for the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025, anticipation is high for an influx of tourists from both within Japan and overseas. With this in mind, alongside the shopping facilities and amusement parks mentioned here, numerous new openings and renovations are also planned. When visiting Osaka, be sure to explore not only the classic tourist destinations but also these exciting new spots.

(*Please note that the information in this article is accurate as of February 2024. For the latest updates, please refer to official websites and sources.)

Written by:

Shiro Tsuchida

Shiro Tsuchida

After graduating from university, Shiro worked with an advertising agency for about a year. Leveraging her experience from a journalism club she was part of during her college days, she began her career as a freelance writer. Based in the Kansai region, she capitalizes on her local insights, writing event coverage and reports spanning genres like art, music, comedy, food, and entertainment within the Kinki area. She also handles photography. Additionally, she focuses on region-specific anecdotes and deep dives into local culture and history. Currently, she regularly contributes articles to more than five media outlets.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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