Things to do in Matsubara

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo "Matsubara" by Nankou Oronain (as36… (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Nankou Oronain (as36… (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Matsubara" by Nankou Oronain (as36… (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Nankou Oronain (as36… (CC BY-SA)
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Top places to visit

1. Universal Studios Japan

Since opening in 2001, Universal Studios Japan™ has attracted millions of visitors each year with its thrill rides, exciting events and theatrical shows. Spend a day with the family exploring its eight areas, each of which has its own distinct theme and unique attractions.
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Universal Studios Japan® featuring a statue or sculpture and a fountain as well as children

2. Dotonbori

Marvel at the illuminated billboards and savor gourmet meals at Dotonbori, Osaka's primary entertainment district. This glitzy precinct, situated around the Dotonbori Canal, offers diverse shopping, compelling landmarks and a large selection of high-quality Japanese restaurants.
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Dotonbori showing cbd and outdoor art as well as a large group of people

3. Osaka Castle

Learn about Japan's bloody history and Osaka's ancient rulers at Osaka Castle. This romantic multi-tier castle stands on a 264-acre (106-hectare) block of raised and fortified land, and is one of the city's most iconic sites.
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Osaka Castle showing a castle

4. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Delight in the diverse world below the waves at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. The goal of this institution is to bring together the various species found around the Pacific Ocean in one place, and to care for and conserve them. Explore this high-tech aquarium and get close to playful penguins, live like an arctic seal or watch whale sharks feeding.
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Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan featuring marine life

5. Tsutenkaku Tower

A visit to the Tsūtenkaku tower is a visit to the heart and soul of Osaka. Take an hour or two enjoying the towering, eight-sided construct, the magnificent view it provides and the statue of Billiken, a god of good fortune.
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Come to marvel at the tower that reaches to heaven and meet Billiken, the god of happiness and good luck.

6. Spa World

Pamper yourself with a day of stress-melting baths, healing steam and mud massages at Osaka's Spa World. This popular health center prides itself on offering a huge range of international spa and sauna experiences.
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Spa World showing rides, interior views and a pool

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What to do in Matsubara

Popular places to visit

Universal Studios Japan® featuring a statue or sculpture and a fountain as well as children

Universal Studios Japan

4.5/5(88 reviews)

Watch theatrical shows, meet lovable mascots and go on exhilarating rides at this extensive movie-focused theme park.

Universal Studios Japan
Dotonbori showing cbd and outdoor art as well as a large group of people

Dotonbori

Experience the colorful neon heart of Osaka along this canal, where travelers, couples and entertainment seekers throng the streets.

Dotonbori
Osaka Castle showing a castle

Osaka Castle

4.5/5(216 reviews)

Engage with Japan's rich history at this 16th-century site, where dramatic battlegrounds have made way for a peaceful park with cherry trees.

Osaka Castle
Kyocera Dome Osaka

Kyocera Dome Osaka

4/5(16 reviews)

Catch an event at Kyocera Dome Osaka during your trip to Osaka. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Kyocera Dome Osaka
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan featuring marine life

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

4.5/5(77 reviews)

Experience the diverse marine ecosystems of the Pacific in this comprehensive aquarium, which hosts otters, penguins, seals and even whale sharks.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Tsutenkaku Tower

Tsutenkaku Tower

4/5(88 reviews)

Come to marvel at the tower that reaches to heaven and meet Billiken, the god of happiness and good luck.

Tsutenkaku Tower
Nipponbashi

Nipponbashi

4/5(68 reviews)

During your trip to Osaka, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Nipponbashi. While in this walkable area, you can savour the restaurants and cafes.

Nipponbashi
Spa World showing rides, interior views and a pool

Spa World

3.5/5(7 reviews)

Relax in world culture-themed spas, recharge with medicinal saunas and play around in a water park at this comprehensive health retreat.

Spa World
Kuromon Market

Kuromon Market

4.5/5(40 reviews)

Follow scents of spices and smoked goods into the covered alleyway of this bustling food market. Its popularity with chefs has earned it the nickname Osaka’s Kitchen.

Kuromon Market
Osaka

Osaka

Bicycle Museum showing interior views

Sakai

Photo "Fujiidera" by Yanajin33 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Yanajin33 (CC BY-SA)

Fujiidera

Photo "Yao" by JEXP (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by JEXP (CC BY-SA)

Yao

Frequently asked questions

Is Matsubara worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Matsubara is explore Universal Studios Japan. Check this leading sight off your agenda, then discover more of the area's history and dining.
How do I spend a day in Matsubara?
After you've checked off popular attractions like Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, spend some time exploring the food and retail options in Matsubara.
What is the top tourist attraction in Matsubara?
The top tourist attraction in Matsubara is Universal Studios Japan, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Matsubara?
Three days will be plenty of time to check out many city attractions, such as Tennoji Zoo, Osaka City Museum of Fine Art and Nobeha no Yu. The average stay in Matsubara is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Osaka isn't far away.
Is Matsubara a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, Matsubara is a good destination to see on foot. Have fun wandering between Hananoyu and Yanmar Stadium Nagai. Then take a stroll around Hirano Ward, located 5 kilometres from downtown, and Higashisumiyoshi-ku, which is roughly 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Matsubara with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, a schedule filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Check out our ideas for what to do in Matsubara with kids.

What to do in Matsubara for adults?
Osaka-jō Hall and Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Street are just a couple of the things to do in Matsubara. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Matsubara?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Matsubara is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Shitennoji Temple is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.