11 Kid-Tastic Things To Do in Osaka, Japan For Your Next Family Holiday

For good reasons, Japan, otherwise known as the Land of the Rising Sun, is beloved by many travellers. And while it’s no secret that Tokyo frequently steals the spotlight, other cities in the Kansai region like Osaka also possess unique charms — especially for families travelling with children.

While travelling with kids certainly adds a layer of complexity, Osaka surprisingly has an abundance of kid-friendly attractions that make it an ideal family destination. So if you’ve got a few rambunctious little ones tagging along your Nippon holiday, we’ve gathered the best things to do in Osaka to add to your trip itinerary!

11 Kid-friendly Things To Do in Osaka

1. Round1 Stadium Sennichimae

Although Dotonbori might be overrated to seasoned Japan travellers, we think it’s still worthwhile to catch a glimpse of the iconic Glico Man at least once if you’re new to Osaka. And since you’re already in the area, you might as well pay a visit to Japan’s mega entertainment centre — Round1 Stadium Sennichimae.

Imagine your regular Japanese arcades, only bigger and better! Round1 Stadium offers all the classic arcade finds, but goes beyond with bowling alleys, batting cages, karaoke rooms, basketball and tennis courts, bull riding, mini golf, manga lounges, and much more scattered across 11 impressive storeys. Some of these activities and facilities are located within the Spotcha zone and will require special access.

And if you thought clubbing was the only form of entertainment you’d get in the wee hours of the morning, you’ll be pleased to know that Round1 Stadium is open 24/7. That’s non-stop fun around the clock, no matter the time of day.

That said, entry prices differ according to when you enter and the duration of your stay. Some stations operate based on pay-per-usage too. The Day Mega Pack (Opening to 7pm) costs 2,790 yen (S$24.11) per adult for unlimited play for up to seven hours whereas the Night MEGA Pack (7pm to 12am) costs 2,490 yen (S$21.52) per adult for unlimited play up to five hours.

For an additional 330 yen (S$2.85), you can upgrade your Mega Pack to enjoy unlimited drinks. Additionally, topping up 200 yen (S$1.73) will grant you Spotcha access as well. Overall, do note that an extra 200 yen fee applies to the Mega Pack for non-members.

Pro-tip: Be careful not to get confused between the two versions of this arcade chain, Round1 and Round1 Stadium. The former is your typical arcade whereas the latter is where you’ll find more of the fun physical-based activities and games.

Address: 1 Chome-3-1 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Contact: +81 6-4708-2600
Opening hours: 24 hours
More info: Website

2. Mipig Cafe

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While Japan excels in many areas, if there’s one thing they’ve truly mastered, it’s the art of kawaii. Naturally, that includes the concept of a "micro pig" cafe, because why wouldn’t it? Kiddos can also learn about animal care and responsible interaction with the adorable, domesticated mini pigs.

Here at Mipig Cafe, patrons can indulge in sweet treats and beverages while being charmed by these lovable animals. Smart, adorable, and surprisingly hygienic, these creatures can even learn verbal commands, making the experience both heartwarming and educational for the whole family.

You may make a reservation here.

Address: Smile step building 2F, 2-10-32, Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka Fu, 542-0086, Japan
Contact: 06-6213-6334
Opening hours: 10am to 8pm daily
Website

3. Kids Plaza Osaka

Want to explore a world of wonder and surprise? Kids Plaza Osaka is the perfect museum playground where children can immerse themselves in imaginative play for hours on end. As Japan’s first museum dedicated to child education, it features interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage all five senses, sparking creativity and curiosity in young minds.

Its facilities are divided across four themed floors.

Admission is 800 yen (S$6.92) for elementary and junior high school students, 500 yen (S$4.32) for preschoolers aged 3 and up, 1,400 yen (S$12.10) for adults, and 700 yen (S$6.05) for seniors. Click here for more ticketing details.

Address: Ogimachi 2-1-7, Kita-ku, Osaka, 530-0025 Japan
Contact: 06-6311-6601
Opening hours: 9.30am to 5pm (Last admission: 4.15pm) | Closed on the 2nd and 3rd Monday of each month

4. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

If you’re a self-proclaimed animal lover, you don’t want to miss the Osaka Aquarium. As one of the largest aquariums in the world, it offers 15 themed zones housing an array of incredible aquatic and marine creatures.

• Aqua Gate: Walk under a “fish underpass” or otherwise known as a transparent undersea tunnel.
• Japan Forest: Explore Japan’s rainforest and meet the Asian Small-Clawed Otters, Japanese Freshwater Crabs, and Black-Crowned Night Herons.
• Aleutian Islands: Catch a glimpse of the elusive Tufted Puffin here.
• Monterey Bay: Unwind, relax, and be captivated by the graceful movements of the coastal sea lions gliding effortlessly through the water.
• Gulf of Panama: Watch the adorable South American Coati go about their day.
• Ecuador Rainforest: Some ancient fishes (like the Arapaima/Pirarucu) feel larger than life here.
• Antarctica: Penguins. Enough said.
• Tasman Sea: Watch in awe as schools of Pacific White-Sided Dolphins enchant us with their agility, intellect, and charming demeanours.
• Great Barrier Reef: Did somebody say “Finding Nemo”?
• Pacific Ocean: Immerse yourself in the underwater world as you greet graceful giants like the Whale Shark and Hammerhead Shark swimming by.
• Seto Inland Sea: Known as the origin of aquaculture fisheries, expect to see a huge variety of fish here.
• Coast of Chile: Be mesmerised by schools of sardines here as their silvery scales dazzle brilliantly under the light.
• Cook Strait: Feel free to chill with the turtles here for a while.
• Japan Deep: Uncover deep sea gigantism by coming face to face with the Japanese Giant Spider Crab.
• Jellyfish: Gaze into the galaxy of jellyfish exhibits here.

Stay long enough and watch the Kaiyukan Night Aquarium come to life as the lights dim and the music changes. As the aquarium transforms, the way the fish swim under this, albeit fabricated, moonlight is truly magical. You can catch this transition from 5pm to closing daily.

Pro-tip: While all these exhibits are amazing, our personal favourite has got to be catching one of the adorable Ringed Seals taking a cheeky nap in one of their aquarium’s domes.

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan operates on a variable pricing system so refer to their admission fee page for more details. But in general, entry costs 2,700 yen (S$23.33) per adult on most days.

Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Opening hours: 10.30am to 8pm daily
Website

5. Tempozan Ferris Wheel (+ Tempozan Marketplace for food)

What better way to catch some picturesque Osaka city views than to soak them in on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel? This magnificent 112.5-metre ferris wheel is located at the Tempozan Harbor Village, overlooking the Aji River harbour.

Plus, it’s a mere stone’s throw away from the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, making it an ideal spot to visit after exploring the aquarium — just in time to catch the golden hour. It takes 15 minutes to complete one ride.

Once done, gather your family and head over to the Tempozan Marketplace for a variety of delicious eats, including okonomiyaki, takoyaki, omu-rice, conveyor belt sushi, and more! We have a feeling that the kids will particularly enjoy the fun conveyor belt sushi dining experience.

Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Opening hours: 10am to 9pm daily

6. Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

No trip to Osaka with the kids is complete without visiting the ever-popular Universal Studios Japan (USJ). There are a total of nine distinct zones, each offering unique attractions and experiences specific to their franchise. The two most popular zones are definitely Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Overall, USJ presents a good mix of child-friendly and thrilling rides, depending on what your kid’s appetite for adrenaline is. And although single-rider queues typically move faster, we don’t recommend opting for convenience or efficiency at the expense of being separated from your kids on the ride.

Instead, what we do recommend is securing a Universal Express Pass that allows you and your family to jump the queue for select rides. They’re available on Klook from $119.75.

Pro-tip #1: We strongly encourage you to get your Area Timed Entry Ticket via the USJ app before arriving at the park. These tickets are essential, granting you access to popular and often crowded zones, like Nintendo World, at an allotted time. Once you’re in the park, navigate to the “attraction timed entry ticket” option on the USJ app to secure your entry timeslot. However, do beware these tickets are competitive and time slots sell out really quickly!

Pro-tip #2: Although the park officially opens at 8am, USJ allows general admissions as early as 7.30am. So consider arriving at this time to beat the massive crowds and fully maximise your theme park experience.

Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
Opening hours: 8am to 10pm daily (subject to change)
Website

7. NIFREL Aquazoo & Museum

Just when you thought Osaka couldn’t get any cooler, NIFREL surprises us as one of Osaka’s most unique attractions. It combines the best of both worlds, museum and aquazoo, offering an extraordinary experience that blends art, nature, and wildlife all into one place. 

The Living Museum: NIFREL enlightens us on the dynamic between living organisms and nature across installations and eight zones. These zones are titled “colours”, “abilities”, “swim”, “WONDER MOMENTS”, “mimic”, “waterside”, “behaviour”, and “biodiversity”.

Apart from being museum installations, you can engage in close encounters with animals at various zones like “waterside”, “mimic”, “behaviour”, and “swim”. For a truly otherworldly experience, pop over to their “WONDER MOMENTS” zone featuring an interactive art installation of the planet and galaxy crafted by artist Takahiro Matsuo. 

Tickets start from 2,200 yen (S$19.01) for adults. Refer to their ticketing page for more information. Alternatively, you can also purchase tickets online for the whole family on Klook.

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Address: Japan, 〒565-0826 Osaka, Suita, Senribanpakukoen, 2−1 NIFREL EXPOCITY内
Opening hours: 10am to 6pm (Subject to seasonal changes)
Website

8. Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda

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Besides sweet treats, another type of food that kids adore is anything salty, flavourful, and full of MSG. And what kind of food ticks all those boxes off? Why, it’s cup noodles, of course! Arguably one of Japan’s greatest inventions, cup noodles are a cross-generational interest — beloved by kids and adults alike so much that it needed its own designated museum.

At the Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda, you can participate in a wide array of activities and experiences. Try your hand at making chicken ramen from scratch by kneading, spreading, steaming, and seasoning the wheat flour before drying it with the flash-frying method. There’s even a tasting room where you can purchase exclusive flavours from vending machines, available only in limited areas of Japan. 

The star of the show, however, has got to be personalising your very own cup noodles! You’ll get to select your favourite soup base from four options and choose four toppings from a list of 12, then finalise your custom cup noodle design.

Best of all, museum entry here is free!

Address: 8-25 Masumi-cho, Ikeda-shi, Osaka 563-0041 Japan
Contact: 072-752-3484 
Opening hours: 9am to 4.30pm daily (Last admission: 3.30pm)
Website

9. Sumikko Gurashi Asobi Studio 

Sumikko Gurashi fans, rejoice! The charming Sumikko Gurashi Play Studio on the third floor of Lalaport Kadoma shopping mall offers three delightful play zones: the Home, Shop, and Ball Pool areas.

In the Home area, your little ones can explore the Sumikko Gurashi house which includes a set of spiral stairs and a slide. Next, they can proceed to the Shop area for some pretend food shopping at the Food and Bread House before splashing around in the pastel Ball Pool area.

Ideal for kids aged two to 12 (those under two are not permitted), this quaint play studio is great for killing some time or taking five from some shopping while keeping the kids entertained. Admission for the first 30 minutes is 400 yen (S$3.46) per adult (aged 20+), without any novelty items. For entry with novelty items, however, tickets are 600 yen (S$5.19) per adult/kid. After the initial 30 minutes, extended playtime is available for kids at 150 yen (S$1.30) per additional 10 minutes. 

Address: 1-11 Matsuo-cho, Kadoma-shi, Osaka, Japan LaLaport Kadoma 3F Room 3040
Contact: 06-6780-9594
Opening hours: 10am to 9pm (Last admission: 8pm)
Website

10. Ninja Experience Cafe Osaka Dotonbori

Do your kids enjoy watching the anime series, Naruto and Naruto Shippuden? If so, the Ninja Experience Cafe in Osaka’s Dotonbori will be a hit with them. This hands-on entertainment cafe offers the full ninja package, where guests can dress in ninja attire, undergo Shinobi training, and enjoy themed ninja dishes and desserts served with a touch of Ninjutsu.

For an even more fulfilling experience, you can even partake in their Ninja Photo Taking Tour to explore various Dotonbori tourist attractions and capture unforgettable family moments in your ninja garments! After all, creating precious memories together as a family is truly one of the best Nindos (Ninja way/philosophy/motto) to live by.

Tickets start from S$49.39 on Klook.

Address: 大阪 道頓堀 (Osaka Dotombori) 大阪府大阪市中央区難波1-6-8難波門三ビル4階 (1-6-8 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka -fu, Namba Monzo Building 4F)
Contact: 70-9261-3333
Opening hours: 10am to 9pm daily
Website

11. TeamLab Botanical Gardens Osaka

For the average tourist, the vibrant lights and the hustle and bustle of Shinsaibashi, Shinsekai, and Hozenji Yokocho epitomise Osaka's nightlife. However, if you’re even familiar with the stunning digital art installations by the critically acclaimed TeamLab, then the nighttime illuminations at TeamLab’s Nagai Botanical Gardens will be a spectacle you and your family don’t want to miss.

From the alluring flickering cosmos to the enchanting gem-like microcosm in the common camellia garden, these mesmerising digital media and light displays will undoubtedly captivate hearts and spark wonder in young minds. In our opinion, any TeamLab exhibition is certified “core memory” material that kids will cherish for years.

Admission starts from 1,800 yen (S$15.56) for adults (aged 16 and above) and 500 yen (S$4.32) for children (six to 15 years old) on the official ticketing site. Alternatively, tickets are also available on Klook from $15.65.

Address: 1-23 Nagaikoen, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 546-0034, Japan (Located inside Nagai Botanical Garden)
Contact: 6-6699-5120 (4pm to 8.30pm)
Opening hours: Refer to their website