I’m gonna come out and admit it, I’m an Instagram addict (it’s where you’ll find me the most) and there are so many places in Osaka that are ace to capture the perfect pic – ergo I decided to create a list of the most Instagrammable places in Osaka (in case you’re planning to visit – which I hope you are)! Every region and prefecture of Japan is different and offers it’s own beauty – so I’ll hopefully do a few more of these posts for other regions across Japan.

Anyways I’ve broken this list into 2 sections – the first, my recommendations on where to go for cool pics, and the second where most tourists take photos (not necessarily my favourite spots).

A quick tip I’ve learnt living here, if you’re not sure if you can take a photo somewhere you can ask:

Shashin ii des ka?

This literally translates as ‘photo ok?’ and it should be ok. A couple of times, people have been confused wondering whether I wanted to take a photo of them, so if you ask, just point what you want to take a photo of. Aside from this, if it’s outdoors or a public space, no need to ask, just snap away. Without further ado, here’s my list of fave places in no particular order that will hopefully help you rack up the likes!

For incredible views… Umeda Sky Building

Yes this one is a little touristy-cliche BUT you can take really amazing pictures especially if you get a day with a great sunset, or you want to ride an escalator to heaven! It’s always busy as it is one of the most popular attractions and landmarks of Osaka and features an open roof with 360-degree panoramic views of the city.

For more seafood than you can handle… Kuromon Market

Osaka is considered the food capital of Japan (and for good reason) and Kuromon Ichiba is 580 meters of food goodness! I just filmed the 7 WTF Crazy Foods at Kuromon Market, which you can watch here! Though primarily used to cater to restaurants, with over 170 shops there is a huge amount of food stalls that cater to the general public. If you’re not big on seafood, don’t stress as you can also find a wide range of other food such as beef (Kobe beef), vegetables (the fresh roasted sweet potato rocks), fruit as well as famous Osaka street food.

For cute critters and creepy crawlies… Cafe Rockstar

Yes a lot of people won’t like this place, but if you’re an animal lover, want to try something different or simply want a kickass image for your Insta then this cafe has it! There are so many amazing animals to get a picture with including snakes, lizards, geckos, beetles, bugs, spiders and more! Check out other popular Animal Cafes here.

For a Harry Potter Inspired Pic… Owl Family Cafe

There are so many different animal cafes in Osaka and Japan (read more here) and one of my faves is this place. Owls are just so darn cute, so cute that I even posted a pic with me in it – and that rarely happens! Pat their little beaks or attempt a staring contest (you will lose, I tried) and just have an overall hoot!

For a little wilderness not far from the city… Minoh Waterfall

Minoh Waterfall is one of the most beautiful places and instagrammable spots in Osaka, and is so different and incredible across the seasons (have a look my post here and see for yourself). Only a quick train trip from the city this is the best place to to escape the bustle and take a breath. If you can make it for the Minoh Candle Festival in July – even better!

For the best hike just outside Osaka… Mukogawa Gorge

Seriously one of my favourite places and one of the most instagrammable places in all of Kansai. When you walk along this hiking trail through the Mukogawa Gorge you’re in fact walking along an old, abandoned train line including passing through several PITCH BLACK train tunnels – all the way enjoying the stunning scenery, lush forests, flowing river and beautiful train bridges. Seriously – go here!

For the best cherry blossoms in Osaka… Osaka Mint Bureau

With over 300 cherry trees and over 100 varieties, and for only 1 week in April, you can stroll amongst the sakura and take the most mesmerising photos!

For legendary landmarks… Osaka Castle

Picture perfect from any angle it is no wonder it is probably one of the most instagrammable places in Osaka. Osaka Castle is a must visit, when you come to Osaka and is particularly picturesque during cherry blossom season. Despite this, even on rainy days, cloudy days or perfect blue sky days – you’ll be able to capture this beauty in all it’s glory from a range of angles, inside and outside the castle grounds.

For aquatic creatures of every kind… Kaiyukan Aquarium

Even if you don’t like aquariums – this one will make you change your mind. One of the biggest in Japan and the world, there are more than 15 tanks, 19 sections and over 620 species of animals! The sea otters and whale sharks are the standouts in my opinion!

Seriously there are alot of great instagrammable places in Osaka to take the perfect instagram pic – and take my advice, avoid the tourist traps if you can, and head off the beaten path to some of the more secret spots that are so much more beautiful!

Know another good spot for a great Instagram snap? Leave a comment below!

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