GUIDE
Why You Should Go to Osaka Right Now
If you miss it, you’ll have to wait another year.
editor_UJ
The biggest tip? Now is the moment—because the Osaka Expo is coming to an end.
A city too comfortable to feel unfamiliar, yet just exotic enough to stir your senses—Osaka has long been imprinted in the minds of Korean travelers as “the city where you can enjoy the delights of overseas travel at the most reasonable cost.”
A city too comfortable to feel unfamiliar, yet just exotic enough to stir your senses—Osaka has long been imprinted in the minds of Korean travelers as “the city where you can enjoy the delights of overseas travel at the most reasonable cost.”
*The Glico Sign at Dotonbori, Osaka ©pexels
Like the iconic Glico Man in Dotonbori that everyone has seen at least once, Osaka is drawn as Japan’s most cheerful and approachable city. Perhaps it’s the energy of a bustling commercial hub. Its local dialect, Osaka-ben, has become a meme in itself, and people even say that the city is so good-natured that it tolerates playful “pretend gun fights” in the streets.
From October through early December, the Kansai region embraces a crisp, brilliant autumn—the most comfortable season for travelers and the time when Osaka’s charm reaches its peak.
For just over two months, here’s how to make the most of autumn in Osaka. And once again—the biggest tip is this: the closing season of the Osaka Expo is your chance.
©Pexels
October: Universal Studios Halloween & the Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
In October, Osaka’s temperature ranges from 15–23°C, similar to Korea’s September. No need to endure blazing sun, no need to pack heavy coats—the weather is simply perfect.
©Osaka Tickets, Universal Studio Japan
During this season, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) transforms into a Halloween wonderland. This year’s festival began on September 5 and runs until November 3, offering a completely different experience by day and by night.
In daylight, adorable characters like Pokémon and Minions appear in Halloween costumes, while Pokémon dance battles captivate not only children but also adults. But as the sun sets, “Horror Nights” take over. Zombies flood the streets, and eerie chase scenes unfold. More than just rides, this is a must-experience event for true Halloween and horror enthusiasts.
©Magicla Trip
Adding even more excitement this year—Osaka’s beloved Yodogawa Fireworks Festival will be held on Saturday, October 18. Traditionally a summer event in August, it has been exceptionally moved to autumn due to the Expo.
Every year, about 450,000 people gather for Osaka’s largest fireworks show along the Yodo River—a dreamlike scene of romance. With a little preparation, you could don a kimono and watch the fireworks light up the night sky, stepping right into a scene from a youthful love story.
©enjoy OSAKA KYOTO KOBE, pexels
November: The Height of Autumn Foliage
By mid-November, Kansai enters full autumn foliage season. The grounds of Osaka Castle transform into a spectacular “photo spot,” where you can admire the towering keep from below or climb up to the observation deck for sweeping seasonal views.
It’s also the perfect season for a foodie’s delight. As the weather cools, izakayas near the busy districts are livelier than ever. Imagine piping-hot dishes paired with a refreshing beer. From national favorites like okonomiyaki and takoyaki to kushikatsu, kitsune udon, and butaman—the nation’s gourmet capital offers such an abundance of seasonal flavors that it’s impossible to count them all.
©スルッとKANSAI
But Osaka’s greatest charm lies in its connectivity. The city is just a short hop away from other beloved destinations like Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
Kyoto is only 40–50km away, less than an hour by shinkansen or even regular trains. You can easily make a day trip without changing accommodations.
By mid-November, temples such as Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji reach peak foliage, while a walk along the Philosopher’s Path offers a serene way to soak in the season. It’s an opportunity to experience quiet elegance in contrast to Osaka’s bustling vibrancy.
*UH Suite Namba Station
At Namba Station, discover tranquility at UH Suite.
Umeda is the hub of northern Osaka, while Namba is the hub of the south. Namba Station is surrounded by must-visit landmarks like Namba Parks, Takashimaya Department Store, and the Dotonbori River.
Tucked just a short walk away, however, are UH Suite Namba Station 1 and 2—quiet retreats only 10 minutes on foot from Namba Station. With rooms ranging from doubles to large suites for 4–6 guests, it’s perfect for everything from family vacations to group getaways with friends.
*UH Suite Namba Station The Spa
Especially noteworthy is “The Spa” at UH Suite Namba Station 2. Every room is equipped with a private jacuzzi, and the first floor houses a European-style brunch café, Sounds of APPLE, where guests enjoy a special breakfast.
Why Osaka Always Calls You Back
In the end, Osaka’s appeal isn’t just about what to see. It’s that no matter how many times you visit, the city always reveals a new side of itself—while never losing its sense of comfort. Layer upon layer of warmth and energy create endless reasons for travelers to return.
This autumn, Osaka is set to show its most dazzling charm.