Osaka Prefecture is often seen through the lens of the bright lights of its namesake city – bold, bustling and full of flavor. But beyond the neon signs and street food stalls lies a region with layers of culture, craftsmanship and character that reward a closer look.
To the south, Sakai City offers a different rhythm. Once a hub of international trade and fine artisanship, it still thrives on quiet precision. Visitors can explore the ancient keyhole-shaped burial mounds that dot the city, or watch master blade makers at work, continuing a centuries-old tradition with modern finesse.
Elsewhere in the prefecture, a short ride north leads to Minoh, where forest trails wind past waterfalls and maple trees blaze with color in autumn. With its convenient rail access to the rest of Japan, Osaka Prefecture is more than a gateway, it’s a destination in its own right.
Osaka-Nara Discovery Pass is a digital ticket designed for international visitors to enjoy top sightseeing spots in both Osaka and Nara at a great value. There are two versions available: the Northern Route Pass and the Southern Route Pass. Featured attractions include iconic Osaka landmarks such as the Umeda Sky Building, HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, and Tsutenkaku Tower, as well as historic sites in Nara like Gangoji Temple, Shin-Yakushiji Temple, Saidaiji Temple, and the Nara National Museum. It’s the perfect way to experience both the urban energy of Osaka and the deep cultural heritage of Nara in one trip. Simply display the QR code on your smartphone to enter each facility smoothly—no need to buy tickets on-site. Advance purchase helps you save time and money, allowing you to make the most of your limited time. This pass is ideal for travelers planning to explore both cities, offering significant savings compared to purchasing individual admission tickets. Set options that include train tickets or rental cars are also available for even greater convenience and value.
”All your Osaka travel info and facility bookings in one app.” Packed with helpful tourist information, the app provides everything from sightseeing spots and event details in Osaka Prefecture to route searches, weather updates, and disaster alerts. You can also search for and book hands-on experiences directly within the app. XR features are available for added fun! With multilingual support, the app ensures travelers from around the world can enjoy Osaka even more. "Find your next destination! Discover attractions and enjoy useful search features" Get monthly event information and plan your trip around local festivals or cultural happenings. The app also provides details on tourist facilities and directions to your destination, plus a wealth of other helpful resources. "Make it happen! Book and pay for interactive experiences" You can purchase the Osaka E-Pass, and make reservations and payments for attractions and hands-on experiences — all in one place. The app is available in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
Haneda Airport →Osaka Itami Airport: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes
JR Tokyo Station → JR Shin-Osaka Station: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by Tokaido Shinkansen
