Universal Studios Japan

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6462 8775
Address: 6 Chome-2-61 Shimaya, Konohana Ward Osaka, 554-0024
Our opinion: Specializing in pancakes, this store is in the Universal Citywalk Osaka shopping mall, at the gateway to Universal Studios Japan. The pancakes are full of flavour, served with fresh fruits and different kinds of cream. It is possible to eat in or take away.

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6469 7108
Address: 1-1-86 Noda Fukushima-ku Osaka-shi, Osaka 553-0005
Website: http://www.endo-sushi.com/english.html
Our opinion: This sushi restaurant is at the Osaka Municipal Fish Market (called Honjo). It is very popular and has been run by the same family for over a century. Do not hesitate to opt for the concept of Omakase (an assortment of 5 sushi chosen by the chef to surprise you).

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6440 5970
Address: B1F Umeda Sky Building 1-1-90 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Osaka 531-0076
Our opinion: Hidden in the basement of a twin-towered skyscraper, this small restaurant owes its solid reputation to its original Japanese dishes. They are prepared on a hot plate called Okonomiyaki Kiji. Similar to omelets, patties or pizzas, they are made of a dough to which is added several ingredients as desired.

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6576 5501
Address: 1-1-10 Kaigan-dori Minato-ku, Osaka 552-0022
Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/
Our opinion: This world-famous aquarium is described as spectacular, featuring countless varieties of Pacific fish and aquatic species in large, vertically shaped marine habitats. Its innovative, playful, and interactive approach enhances the visitor experience.

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6771 0066
Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0051
Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp
Our opinion: Dated 593, this temple was built by Prince Shotoku, who initiated the expansion of Buddhism in Japan. Although it had to be rebuilt, it is the oldest Buddhist building in the country. A flea market is held here on the 21st of each month. A pagoda, a garden and frescoes wait to be discovered.

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6211 4542
Address: Dotonbori, Chuo-ku Osaka-shi, Osaka 542-0071
Website: http://www.dotonbori.or.jp/en/
Our opinion: Situated alongside the canal of the same name, this pedestrian street used to be full of small theatres. Today, it is the busiest place in the city with a multitude of stores, restaurants, neon signs and various places of amusement and entertainment. A site that is crowded all year round.

Address: 3-10-12 Shimaya Konohana-ku Osaka-shi, Osaka 554-0024
Website: https://usj-guesthouse.com/
Our opinion: Located near the entrance to Universal Studios Japan, this hostel provides mixed or female-only dorms. Shared bathroom, self-catering kitchen and bike rental service (first three hours free). Bilingual and friendly staff.

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6211 6337
Address: 3-12 Soemoncho Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0084
Website: https://kaneyosi.jp/
Our opinion: This traditional accommodation is located on the banks of the Dotonbori River in Osaka's Namba district. It is a 3-star hotel with good public transportation links and many shops nearby. Japanese tea and toiletries are provided. Large indoor public bath.

Telephone: +81 (0)6 6463 5000
Address: 1-1-111 Sakurajima Konohana-ku, Osaka 554-0031
Website: https://www.hoteluniversalport.jp/en/
Our opinion: Located just a stone's throw from Universal Studios Japan, this 3-star hotel overlooks the harbour and Osaka Bay. The rooms are themed around the little yellow Minions characters. Facilities include a 15-metre-long aquarium and massage service.