Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Living in Osaka can be difficult for an expat. There are so many things to sort out, and Japanese culture is very different from what many Western people are used to. Moreover, the more local language you learn, the easier it becomes.

But, one thing that can aggravate expats is how quickly Japanese drivers switch lanes when on a highway. This can make driving in Osaka a hair-raising experience for people not used to it. There are many places to eat out in Osaka, and the variety is amazing. You can find traditional Japanese food as well as international cuisine.

However, prices can be quite high, so it’s best to do your research before you go out and choose a place to eat. You can find some great and cheap places if you look hard enough, though. Also, the people of Osaka are generally very friendly. They will not hesitate to help you if you do not understand something or get lost in the city (a lot of expats do, at least once).

They like to chat too, and you will often find yourself talking to a stranger on the bus. Osaka is a big city and can be very busy with people, especially around Shinsaibashi and Namba. If you are not used to this environment, it can be difficult for some expats to adjust.

That being said, there are many downsides to living in this city. As an expat, you need to understand this fact before relocating. In this article, we will walk you through the cons of living in Osaka as an expat. Not only is that, but you’ll know the best places to live, the tourist attractions, and many others.

Best Places to Live in Osaka as an Expat

The city of Osaka is famous for many things, including its amazing food, innovative technology, and abundant nightlife. However, the city also has a reputation for being crime-ridden and unfriendly to foreigners.

The truth is that if you are an English-speaking foreigner in Osaka, your living experience will be one of the best in Japan. Osaka is a huge city with a lot to offer, but if you are looking for the best places to live as an expat, here are seven neighborhoods that can’t be beaten.

Minoh, Osaka – Tsuruhashi and Kitashinchi

A few steps away via the subway from Umeda Station, just south of Osaka City Hall, these areas boast a lot of things that expats should love. First off, they’re both filled with lots of foreign-run businesses and restaurants, so it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. English is widely spoken here, making it the perfect place to acclimate to life in Japan. The locals are also incredibly friendly and welcoming, so you’ll feel right at home.

Kobe – Sannomiya

Kobe is a beautiful port city located about 20 minutes west of Osaka by train, and it’s well-known for its great beef. If you’re an expat looking for a place where the locals speak flawless English – even to each other! – Then Sannomiya is your best bet. It’s incredibly cosmopolitan with loads of foreign restaurants and people speaking lots of languages while they work. There’s also a ton to do in Kobe, so you’ll never find yourself bored.

Nara – Kintetsu Nara Station

If you’re looking for a more traditional experience living as an expat in Japan, then Nara may be the place for you. This city is home to some of the country’s most famous temples and shrines, and it’s a great place to experience Japanese culture in all its glory.

The people are incredibly welcoming, and there’s always something to do, even if you’re not the temple-hopping type. Plus, Kintetsu Nara Station is incredibly convenient and just a short train ride from Osaka.

Yodogawa – Hannan

If you want to live as an expat in Osaka and be close to the city but not too far from nature, Yodogawa is where you should go. It’s a great place for people who love hiking and biking because it has lots of natural beauty that will take your breath away. The neighbors are extremely friendly, and there’s always something to do no matter what your interests are.

Itoigawa – JR Itoigawa Station

Just a few hours north of Osaka is the lovely city of Itoigawa, located in the heart of Japan’s alps. This city is perfect for expats who love the outdoors and want to experience a more rural side of Japan. Alpaca farming is a huge industry in Itoigawa, so it’s also great if you want to get up close and personal with the locals’ beloved alpacas! This city is incredibly famous for its natural beauty, so it’s definitely worth checking out if that’s what interests you.

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Osaka

Osaka is the second-largest city in Japan, and it’s well known for its food. For many visitors to Osaka, their trip isn’t complete until they’ve tried takoyaki or okonomiyaki. However, there are other attractions here too that shouldn’t be missed! This article lists the top-rated tourist attractions in Osaka.

Osaka Castle

Even if you’re not a history buff, it’s worth visiting this iconic Japanese castle. There are several different ways to explore the space: you can walk around and see the amazing architecture from the outside, or there’s an option for taking a tour of one of the interiors. Either way, Osaka Castle is a top tourist destination for a good reason.

If you’re looking for more things to do, don’t forget to check out the amazing views from the top of the castle tower. The whole city is laid out in front of you, and it’s simply stunning.

Osaka Aquarium

If you’re traveling with children, then Osaka Aquarium is the perfect attraction for you. The exhibits rotate regularly, so there’s always something new to see. There are also interactive exhibits where kids can touch and play with the animals, making it a fun and educational experience for everyone.

Universal Studios Japan

This theme park is a must-visit for anyone who loves movies and amusement rides. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Osaka, and there’s something for everyone here. From the thrilling roller coasters to the charming shows, you’ll definitely want to spend a day at Universal Studios Japan.

Namba Parks

For those who love shopping, Namba Parks is the perfect place to visit. It’s an outdoor mall with over 200 stores and restaurants spread across several buildings. There are also open spaces where children can run around and play safely, so it’s great for families as well. Don’t forget to stop by during nighttime as well, as the mall is fully lit up and is a sight to behold.

Floating Garden Observatory

If you’re looking for something different from all of the hustle and bustle in Osaka, then this garden space will be perfect for you. There are several restaurants here as well if you want to grab a bite to eat, and the views of the cityscape are simply stunning. It’s definitely worth a visit if you have some spare time.

Nakanoshima

For history lovers, this park is a great place to spend an afternoon in Osaka. There are museums in the area that you can explore, along with several gardens and memorials commemorating different events from Japan’s past. If you’re looking for more things to do after exploring the park itself, then there are plenty of restaurants and shops in the area too.

Spa World

This is a unique attraction that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. It’s a spa and amusement park combined, and it’s perfect for those who want to relax and have some fun at the same time. There are different areas for men and women, and you can even enjoy a traditional Japanese spa experience if you’re feeling adventurous.

Dotonbori

This lively district is famous for its food, and there’s no shortage of options here. You can find everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, so it’s a great place to explore if you want to get a taste of authentic Osaka cuisine. There’s also a large digital screen in the area, where you can watch ads and videos from around the world.

Shitennoji Temple

Located in the Tennoji district of Osaka, Shitennoji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Japan. The temple was founded in 593 by Emperor Shōtoku. If you’re interested in Japanese history, you’ll definitely want to visit this temple. There are also some beautiful gardens and a museum on the premises.

Tsutenkaku Tower

Tsutenkaku Tower is one of Osaka’s most popular tourist destinations, and it can be accessed by taking an elevator to the top of the tower. The views from up there are beautiful; you get a good view of Osaka’s city skyline, and it even spans as far as Kobe. There’s also a rotating restaurant on the 48th floor where you get to eat while enjoying panoramic views. It also has an observation deck which is open until 10 pm.

Concept of Living in Osaka as an Expat

Osaka is one of Japan’s major cities and the capital of the Kansai region. A lot of people have heard of Tokyo or Kyoto, but few have heard of Osaka. That might be changing now, though, because Osaka has really started to transform itself in recent years.

It was always known as a city where all the young people went to have fun, but in recent years it’s become a beautiful place for people who want to live in Japan. If you’re moving to Osaka, you should know some things about living there before you go.

1)    The Good

Osaka is the third-largest city in Japan after Tokyo and Yokohama. This means that it has all the amenities you would expect from a major city, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

• It’s also a very convenient city to live in. The subway system is excellent, and there are plenty of buses too.
• Osaka is a really friendly place. People are always willing to help out if you need it, and they’re also very honest about things. One of the first things you’ll learn when studying Japanese is that people will always tell you their honest opinion if you ask for it, which goes double in Osaka.
• Like the rest of Japan, Osaka has a reasonable cost of living compared to other major cities. It’s not as expensive as Tokyo, and you can find plenty of affordable places to live.

2)    The Bad

• Osaka is a huge city, and it can be quite difficult to get around if you don’t know your way around. The subway system is great, but it isn’t straightforward if you’re not used to it.
• It’s also a bustling city, and it can be quite noisy at night. If you’re used to living in a quiet suburb, then Osaka might not be the best place for you.

3)    The Culture

• Osaka is known as the ‘nation’s kitchen’ and is home to some of the best food in Japan. There are restaurants of all kinds, from cheap ramen shops to Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Osaka also has a reputation for being the wildest place in Japan because of its love of yoshoku (western style food). This means that you can find everything from French toast to spaghetti at any restaurant in the city.
• Almost all Japanese people know about Osaka-ben, which is the Osaka dialect. It’s quite different from the standard Japanese dialect, and it can be difficult to understand if you’re not used to it.

4)    The Weather

• Osaka has a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from around 10 degrees Celsius in winter to about 30 degrees Celsius in summer. It doesn’t rain as much as in places like London or New York, but it’s grey for a lot of the time.
• The humidity can be very high in summer, which gets really hot and sticky. It’s probably best to avoid going out in summer unless you’re used to this kind of weather.

5)    The Expats

• Osaka has a large expat community, which is mostly concentrated in two city areas. The first one is around Takatsuki, a small city near Osaka. The other area is Sakai-Ku, which is towards the city’s southeast.
• If you’re lonely, then you might want to head to these areas, as they’re full of expats who are looking for friends. However, it’s worth noting that the expat community can be quite cliquey.

6)    The Education

• Osaka is a great place to study Japanese, as there are plenty of language schools and universities. In addition, a lot of people in Osaka speak English (especially in the expat areas).
• If you’re looking for an English-speaking school, then the best place to look is around Sakai-Ku. There are a lot of international schools in this area, and most of them teach in English.

7)    The Jobs

Osaka is a great place to work, as plenty of jobs are available. However, this also means that there are a lot of people competing for jobs, so you might have to accept a lower salary than you would in other cities (especially Tokyo).

10 Reasons to Live In Osaka as an Expat

If you’re coming to Japan as an expat, the chances are that one of the first cities you’ll be moving to is Osaka. And if that’s the case, then you’re going to have a hard time finding a good article telling you why it might be a good idea for you to move there. That’s where I come in – I’m going to give you ten reasons why living in Osaka is a great idea for expats.

Making Friends with Locals Is Easy

Osaka might be famous for being expensive, but it’s also renowned for having friendly people. So many expats enjoy living here because they are overwhelmed by the amount of support shown to them by local residents! It’s common to see foreigners mingling in the streets of Japan without any problems because of the friendliness of the locals.

The Food Is To Die For

Some people might be biased, but Osaka is undoubtedly famous for its cuisine. This may be because it is Japan’s kitchen, so there are many types of Japanese dishes available here that are not found in other regions of Japan. It may also be due to the fact that Osaka is close to the sea; in Japan, seafood is a staple food which makes it easy for expats to find food from their own culture.

Many Choices of Places to Walk Around

Osaka has got Kusatsu, Suita, and Wakayama prefectures surrounding it. For people who love mountains, there is also Kishiwada-Yama that can be reached in just 40 minutes by car. Some many parks and gardens attract locals and tourists alike to bask under the sun or venture into the occult at night.

Exciting Events Occurring Throughout the Year

You’re lucky if you live here because you get to experience different events every month of the year! This means that you are always looking for something new, even if it is just a blossoming sakura tree. And if you’re lucky enough, maybe you’ll get to have an omikoshi parade or even witness yatai culture in Kishiwada!

The Kansai Region Is Known For Its Dialect

People from the Kanto region might find it difficult to communicate with people in Osaka at first. This is because the Kansai dialect spoken here is quite different from the standard dialect spoken in Tokyo. However, this just makes a living here more fun and interesting, as you get to learn more about the culture and the people.

The Nightlife Is One of a Kind

Osaka never sleeps! This is because there are many places open until the early morning hours where people can go clubbing, drinking, or eating. If you’re an expat who likes to have a good time, you’ll never get bored living here.

The Transportation Is Reliable

Living in a big city like Osaka comes with downsides, such as transport issues. However, the good thing about Osaka is that the public transportation is very reliable, and it’s easy to find your way around. Taxis are also relatively cheap when compared to other major cities like Tokyo.

Everything Is Convenient

Osaka is known for its shopping districts like Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Umeda, but living here means that you can also find everything you need at your own doorstep. From supermarkets to pharmacies and even temples, everything is within walking distance which makes life much easier.

Home to Kansai International Airport

This means that you’ll never miss your flight to another destination because it’s just a short walk away! Expats who regularly fly out of Osaka don’t have to worry about paying for expensive taxi fares, as they can simply use the airport limousine bus service.

The Weather Is Nice

The best thing about living in Osaka is that you get to enjoy the beautiful four seasons throughout the year. During the summer, the sun shines down brightly on your skin and warms you up; during winter; it’s great to sit around a kotatsu and sip hot sake in one hand while holding a marshmallow in the other. And of course, who can forget about the amazing autumn leaves that turn the city into a postcard?

There Are Lots of Job Opportunities

One of the main reasons why people move to Osaka is because there are many job opportunities available here. This is especially true for bilingual expats who are looking to work in the international business industry.

Everything is very affordable

Due to the fact that Osaka is a major city, it has everything you need and more. However, the best thing about living here is that everything is surprisingly cheap! From food to shopping and even transportation, you’ll never feel like you’re breaking your wallet when living in Osaka.

Frequently Asked Questions about Osaka

How old is Osaka?

Osaka has a long and fascinating history. Many people know that Osaka is one of the oldest cities in Japan, but many don’t know exactly how old it is. The city was founded in 593 AD, over 1,200 years old! This makes it one of Japan’s oldest cities.

What is Osaka known for?

There are many things that Osaka is famous for. Some of the most popular ones include food, comic books (manga), and video games. Osaka has some of the best food in Japan, thanks to its unique style called “Kansai cuisine.”

Similarly, Osaka is also known for its lively comic book industry. Most notably, this is where the popular manga series Slam Dunk was set. Osaka has also produced some of Japan’s most famous video game companies, including Konami and Nintendo.

Is Osaka similar to Tokyo?

There are many similarities between Osaka and Tokyo, but some significant differences are also obvious. Both cities are important business hubs in Japan, and both are home to a large number of Japanese people.

However, Tokyo is much larger than Osaka, with over 13 million compared to Osaka’s 2.5 million. Additionally, Tokyo is more international and cosmopolitan than Osaka, with a greater variety of food and culture. That said, Osaka is still a great city to visit and offers a unique perspective on Japanese culture.

What should I see and do in Osaka?

There are many amazing things to see and do in Osaka; it can be hard to know where to start! Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Visit the Osaka Castle: This iconic castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Osaka, and for a good reason. With its imposing structure and beautiful gardens, the Osaka Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
• Go shopping at the Kuromon Ichiba Market: This vibrant market is a great place to buy local produce, souvenirs, and snacks. Be sure to visit the food section – it’s a paradise for local and international cuisine.
• Eat as much okonomiyaki as you can: Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake filled with all sorts of delicious ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables. It’s Osaka’s signature dish! Try some here.
• Dress up in kimono and go to Nishinomaru Garden: This beautiful garden is a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture. Many people come here to see the changing of the guard ceremony, where beautiful women dressed in kimono parade around the garden. It’s quite a fantastic site!

Conclusion

Osaka is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s no surprise why. With its rich history and vibrant culture, this city offers something for everyone. If you’re considering relocating to Japan as an expat, this article is something you should read carefully. Nonetheless, you can follow us for more updates.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Osaka is a great city to live in as an expat. It’s big and bustling but also manageable and comfortable. As of today, there are plenty of things to do, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. If you’ve been craving for an Asian city that feels a bit more familiar than Tokyo, Osaka is a great choice.

Aside from this fact, it’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring the rest of Japan. There are plenty of expat-friendly neighborhoods in Osaka, but I like living in Higashiyodogawa. It’s close to the city center, but it’s also got a relaxed, suburban feel to it. Besides, there are lots of parks and green spaces, which are great for kids, and the river runs right along the edge of the neighborhood.

In fact, I can’t imagine a perfect place to raise my family. My commute into work is easy too – just a short walk to the station, then 15 minutes on the train. The most significant difference between life in Japan and life in most other countries is the emphasis on groups over individuals.

However, if you’re not used to this way of life, it can be difficult to adjust, but eventually, you’ll find that it has a lot of advantages. In Osaka, people are very friendly and willing to help expats adjust to the city. This way, there are many things to love about Osaka!

Besides, the food is amazing, there’s always something going on, and there are many places to go. You don’t need a car, which saves you a lot of money, time and is better for the environment. Not to talk much, there are many things to do here. And that’s why we’ve compiled this article to explain the concept. Read further to get the full details.

9 Things to Know About Living in Osaka as an Expat

So, you’ve decided that moving to Osaka is the best thing ever, and you need a little help with some dos and don’ts to get started? Well, we’ve got you covered! Just keep in mind while reading this article, though: we’re only listing the bare essentials. You should always check this platform and take your time to learn more about Japan and its culture before committing to a life in Osaka.

1.    Tofugu Has Good Resources for Living in Japan

The editors of the website Tofugu are all Japanese language students, teachers, or graduates who live in Japan. They know their stuff when it comes to learning the language and how to get around the country. The website has an abundance of articles about living in Japan, and the Osaka section is no exception. Check it out for yourself if you want to learn more about the city.

2.    Learn Some Japanese Phrases before Moving

Even if you’re just planning on taking a weekend course before your move, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the language of the country you’ll be living in. In Japan, locals will really appreciate your efforts to communicate in Japanese, and you may find that it opens up more opportunities for you socially and professionally.

3.    Osaka Castle

The original castle in Osaka was built in the 16th century, but it burned down in 1615. The current castle was then constructed in 1931 and has become a city landmark. Visitors can tour both the exterior and interior of the structure to learn about its history and architecture.  There is also a museum at the site, and it houses a large number of artifacts from its past.

4.    The Language Barrier Is Very Real

Unless you’re familiar with [Kansai / Kanto] dialects, don’t expect people in Osaka to understand what you’re saying. This barrier has been a huge turnoff for some foreigners and has even lead to some feeling isolated. If you don’t know the language, be prepared to learn it or get by with a lot of hand gestures and broken Japanese.

5.    Osakans Are Extremely Friendly

Compared to the people in Tokyo, Osakans are a lot more friendly and welcoming to foreigners. This is probably because Osaka is considered the cultural and commercial center of Japan. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation with someone on the street. And this is because; they’ll more than likely be happy to chat with you.

6.    Speaking Japanese Is Not Essential

Osakans are very accommodating to foreigners who can’t speak Japanese, but speaking a little bit will get you much further. Many people in Osaka understand conversational English, so it’s wise to know some of the basics at least. Even if you don’t know the language, there are plenty of English-speaking bars and restaurants to go to.

7.    The City Is Extremely Safe

Osaka is known for its extremely low crime rate, especially compared to Tokyo. Of course, it’s still important not to leave your items unattended or let down your guard while walking around the city late at night, but don’t expect to be pick-pocketed or mugged. Osaka is one of the safest cities in the world; it even ranked above Japan’s capital Tokyo.

8.    The City Has a Lot to Offer

Despite what people say about Osaka, it’s a great place that is very entertaining and full of life – if you know where to look. From cheap ramen noodles to upscale Michelin-starred restaurants, the city has something for everyone.

There are also plenty of opportunities here for those with entrepreneurial spirits. Osaka is a great place to get things done, so if you’re looking for a change of pace, this might just be the perfect city for you. There are many events and meet-ups to attend. The best part is that many of these events are catered to different nationalities, so it’s easy to find one that caters to your interests.

9.    Every Stop is a Different Language

If you’re like me, then this one may give you some trouble. When I first came to Japan, I would always get confused when changing trains because each stop was announced in Japanese, Chinese characters (kanji), and English.

It’s not that the announcements are particularly difficult to understand, but after a while, it can be hard to keep track of which stop is which. The best way to combat this is to get in the habit of reading the kanji for each stop as you come to them. This will at least help you get an idea of where you are and which stop is next.