If you’re new to Osaka like I was, planning your trip can feel overwhelming. What should you see? How can you get around efficiently? Luckily, many fellow travelers recommended the Osaka Amazing Pass, and it turned out to be the ultimate solution for a packed, budget-friendly day in this vibrant city. In this post, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the Osaka Amazing Pass: what it is, how to use it, suggested itineraries, and my personal experience. You can also check out our post with discount codes for flights to Osaka (click).
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1. What Is the Osaka Amazing Pass?
Planning a trip to Osaka means wading through countless transportation passes, each with its own perks. The Osaka Amazing Pass is a game-changer—it combines unlimited access to public transportation with free entry to some of the city’s top attractions.
Even if you visit just a handful of sights, you’ll easily get your money’s worth. It’s no wonder this pass is often called a must-have for anyone exploring Osaka!
1) Who Is This Pass Perfect For?
✔️ First-time visitors unsure where to start
✔️ Those keen on hitting Osaka’s iconic tourist spots
✔️ Travelers looking for a cost-effective way to explore
2. Osaka Amazing Pass Pricing
1) Osaka Amazing Pass Prices
1-Day Pass: ¥3,300
2-Day Pass: ¥5,500
2) Here’s a quick look at the savings:
Umeda Sky Building: ¥2,000
Osaka Castle (Main Tower): ¥600
Osaka Castle Gozabune Boat Ride: ¥1,500
Dotonbori River Cruise: ¥1,500
Just these four attractions total ¥5,600, not including the unlimited subway access! It’s clear why this pass is such a bargain.
3. How to Use the Osaka Amazing Pass
Using the pass is super simple:
Show the QR code at attractions or stations
Scan the QR code at subway turnstiles
When riding the subway, just scan the QR code on the ticket reader at the gates to enter.
1) A few things to note:
The pass doesn’t cover the Osaka Loop Line (“O Line”), so plan your routes carefully to avoid extra costs.
If you’re traveling with multiple passes on one phone, each pass must be scanned individually.
For most attractions, you’ll just scan the QR code for free entry. Plus, some spots even have dedicated lanes for pass users, saving you time in line!
4. My 1-Day Osaka Amazing Pass Itinerary
Here’s the itinerary I followed using the 1-Day Pass. My hotel was conveniently located near Namba Station.
Morning
Tsutenkaku Tower (Free Entry)
Tennoji Zoo or Shinsekai Area Walk
Lunch
Enjoy local Osaka cuisine like takoyaki or okonomiyaki!
Afternoon
Umeda Sky Building (Free before 3 PM)
Osaka Castle (Free Entry)
Gozabune Boat Ride (Free with reservation)
Evening
HEP Five Ferris Wheel (Free Entry)
Dotonbori River Cruise (Free Entry)
5. Highlights from My Day
1)Tsutenkaku Tower
Walking distance from Namba, Tsutenkaku opens at 10 AM. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, but the panoramic views are worth it. Shinsekai is also a fun area to explore, filled with retro vibes and tasty street food.
2)Umeda Sky Building
Pro tip: Arrive before 3 PM for free entry. The open-air observatory is a unique way to experience Osaka’s skyline.
3)Osaka Castle & Gozabune Boat Ride
Getting here takes a little planning. Since the “O Line” isn’t included, I used the Midosuji and Nagahori-Tsurumi Ryokuchi subway lines. The castle is a must-visit, and the boat ride offers a relaxing view of the castle’s moat.
4)HEP Five Ferris Wheel
This bright red Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of Osaka’s city lights. Pair the ride with your favorite music using the in-car Bluetooth speakers for a romantic vibe.
5)Dotonbori River Cruise
Ending the day with a nighttime cruise on the Dotonbori River was magical. The vibrant neon lights and bustling atmosphere made for a perfect finale.
6. Final Thoughts: Is the Osaka Amazing Pass Worth It?
Absolutely. Using the Osaka Amazing Pass gave me a jam-packed day exploring the city’s must-see spots without worrying about extra costs. Even with a late start (thanks to a Universal Studios hangover the day before), I managed to fit so much into my itinerary.
Osaka’s many attractions can be enjoyed by booking in advance to save money on your trip. Book in advance!
If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, this pass is a no-brainer. Not only does it save you money, but it also helps streamline your travel experience. Highly recommend it!