The 4 best things to do in Osaka with Kids and Family

The 4 best things to do in Osaka with Kids and Family

Glowing neon signs, exciting shopping and entertainment districts, delicious street food, and fascinating cultural landmarks make Japan’s second most populous city, Osaka, a thrilling place. And when it comes to what to do in Osaka with kids and family, the city’s offerings seem almost endless. From all-age-friendly museums to historical monuments and natural wonders, there are plenty of things to do in Osaka with kids. Here are our four top suggestions for what to do in Osaka with family: LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Osaka, Expo '70 Commemorative Park (Banpaku Koen), Osaka Castle, and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

 

1.LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Osaka

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Osaka, an indoor playground within the Tempozan Marketplace, offers you a variety of activities centered around LEGO® for kids. With rides and attractions well-designed for kids of all ages, it is a place where imagination, fun, and learning combine to create a memorable time for the whole family.

Kids can explore their creativity in the Build and Test zone by constructing and racing LEGO cars. The MINILAND area showcases iconic landmarks of Osaka built entirely from LEGO bricks. The Kingdom Quest laser ride and the 4D cinema provide thrilling experiences. Participate in LEGO building workshops, learn tricks from Master Model Builder. You will never feel short of finding things to do with kids!

 

Opening hours

Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Weekends and Holidays: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Make a date and time reservation on the official website before visiting.

 

How to get there

5-minute walk from Osakako Station on Osaka Metro Chuo Line

Directly accessible from the Tempozan Harbor Village stop on the Osaka City Bus or Kaiyukan (Tempozan) stop on the Nankai Bus

 

2. Expo '70 Commemorative Park (Banpaku Koen)

The Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, known as Banpaku Koen, is a spacious oasis in Osaka. You will find nature, art, and play spaces for kids in perfect harmony with the Tower of the Sun, a one-of-a-kind artwork by the legendary artist Taro Okamoto.

 

This park features beautiful gardens and playgrounds. The Natural and Cultural Gardens provide a serene environment for picnics and refreshing nature walks. It is also home to the National Museum of Ethnology, The Japan Folk Crafts Museum, and The Expo '70 Pavilion.

 

Opening hours

March to November: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

December to February: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Closed on Wednesdays (or the following day if Wednesday is a national holiday)

 

How to get there

Take Osaka Monorail to Banpaku-kinen-koen Station

The park entrance is a short walk from the station

 

3. Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle offers a captivating insight into the compelling history of Japan. The castle museum provides an interactive learning experience about Japanese history. Trying on samurai armor replicas and participating in interactive historical exhibits will be unforgettable experiences for kids.

 

The park is well-known for its stunning cherry blossom viewing in spring. Small playgrounds for younger kids are around the park. Otherwise, visit nearby Osaka Castle Park Luna Park, a small theme park with rides for younger kids.

 

Opening hours

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)

Extended hours during cherry blossom season and summer

 

How to get there

10-minute walk from Tanimachi 4-chome Station on Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line and Chuo Line

15-minute walk from Osakajokoen Station on JR Osaka Loop Line

 

4. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan takes visitors on a journey through different marine habitats, from the Japanese sea to the Antarctic.

 

The highlight is the viewing of impressive whale sharks, the largest fish species, whose lazy movements in the vast tank are quite mesmerizing. Touch pools and numerous interactive exhibits make the outing an educational experience for kids and families. There are fun things to do for small kids, like observing penguins up close in the Penguin World or visiting the Jellyfish Dream Theater for a fascinating display of illuminated jellyfish.

 

Opening hours

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (last admission: 7:00 PM)

Hours may vary during holidays and special events

Make a date and time reservation on the official website before visiting

 

How to get there

5-minute walk from Osakako Station on Osaka Metro Chuo Line

 

Osaka's blend of modern attractions and cultural landmarks creates the perfect setting for unforgettable family memories. From LEGO adventures to historic castles, nature parks, and marine wonders, this dynamic city endlessly offers fun things to do with kids.

 

Plan, consider combination tickets for savings, and don't miss trying Osaka's famous street food between explorations. With efficient public transportation and year-round attractions, you will find fun things to do in Osaka with kids. Start planning your Osaka adventure today and discover why it is one of the best cities in Japan for family travel!