Are there really free things to do in Osaka that are fun? Absolutely! We've picked up these 10 spots with free things to do that you're sure to love.
If you're eager to travel but want to keep your costs to a minimum, check out these great outing spots recommended by locals! Get ready to add great value to your trip, all for zero yen.
TOP: Shawn.ccf / Shutterstock.com
1. Tennoji: Enjoy the Celebration at Shitennoji, the Oldest Temple in Japan!
Shitennoji is Japan's oldest government temple, with a history of over 1,400 years. A government temple is a temple that has been sponsored by the country. Shitennoji was built by Prince Shotoku, and is even found in the records of the history book, The Nihonshoki, written during the Nara Period.
There is a fair held on the 21st and 22nd of every month, which is the monthly anniversary of the monk Kukai and Prince Shotoku, with many stalls to visit. There is also the paid-entry Gokuraku Jodo Garden, where you can see the gorgeous scenery of Abeno Harukas from inside the Japanese garden.
Shitenno-ji Temple
1-11-18, Shitennouji, Tennouji-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Tennouji
06-6771-0066
2. Tenma Mint Museum: Check Out Rare Coins and Medals!
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The mint bureau manufactures Japanese coins and medals. You can see domestic and foreign currency, rare coins and medals at the Mint Museum, and even observe the manufacturing process.
You can also make a reservation to visit the factory of the main headquarters and watch the currency making process as it goes through the passage. "Sakura no Torinuke," also known as "Sakura at the Osaka Mint," is an event held every spring, and a popular spot to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
Japan Mint (Visit)
1-1-79, Tenma, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Minamimorimachi
06-6351-6150
3. Abeno Harukas Skyscraper Outdoor Garden Overlooking the City of Osaka
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The skyscraper building, Abeno Harukas, boasts a height of 300 meters. It is a commercial building full of department stores, restaurants, and museums. On the 16th floor is the ticket counter for the pay-per-view observatory, Harukas 300. The viewing space is about 80 meters high.
There is also an outdoor garden that you can enjoy free of charge. Look out over the buildings of Osaka below while surrounded by the open air atop the building. If the weather is nice, you can sit on a bench and relax.
Abeno Harukas
1-1-43, Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Osakaabenobashi
06-6621-0300
Buy Online: HARUKAS 300 Observatory E-Ticket
4. Namba Yasaka Shrine: Welcomed By A Giant Lion's Head
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The highlight of Namba Yasaka Shrine is the giant, 12-meter-high lion's head statue. The lion's head is also an impactful, popular photo-shooting spot. It enshrines the ten pillar gods, including Susano-no-Mikoto, and is said to bring good luck, including money, protection from disease, and happy marriage. Stroll freely through the precincts, and get yourself some original amulets and omikuji fortunes.
Namba Yasaka Shrine
2-9-19, Motomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Namba
06-6641-1149
5. Nihonbashi Hozenji Yokocho: The Gourmet Alley of 'Naniwa,' or Old-Fashioned Osaka
Hozenji Yokocho is a cobblestone alley that extends from east to west near the downtown…
