Discovering the Hidden Treasures Beyond Osaka World Expo 2025
As the anticipation for the Osaka World Expo 2025 continues to build, travelers from around the globe are preparing to visit this city renowned for its dynamic culture and cutting-edge technology. While the Expo itself promises an array of spectacular exhibitions and futuristic innovations, the region around Osaka holds untapped treasures that beckon the curious and adventurous.
From the serene shores of Lake Biwa in Otsu to the historic echoes of Himeji Castle, this guide reveals unique things to do in Osaka that offer a deeper, more intimate exploration of Japan’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Perfect for business travelers looking to blend commerce with culture, and leisure travelers eager for undiscovered experiences, these destinations will enrich your visit.
Join us as we step off the beaten path with the eight best things to see in Osaka.
Bustling Dotonbori in Osaka, filled with alot of restaurants and shops. Image Credit: Freepik
Cruise through history on Lake Biwa Canal
Step into serenity along the Lake Biwa Canal, an engineering marvel from Japan's Meiji-era industrial revolution. As Japan's largest freshwater lake, Lake Biwa offers stunning views while acting as a crucial economic and ecological resource. The canal itself, which helped propel Kyoto’s modernization by providing water and hydroelectric power, is lined with cherry blossoms in the spring, creating a breathtaking tableau. Retreat into nature on a voyage through the pages of Japanese industrial history on this incredible cruise.
Get industry insights on a factory visit in Otsu
Otsu, nestled near the shores of Lake Biwa, is an industrial hub that boasts a diverse range of sectors including Toray Precision for electronics, and Takara Bio, famous for its role in COVID-19 detection. This is one of the most unusual things to do in Osaka for curious business travelers, offering an opportunity to tour state-of-the-art facilities and engage firsthand with the innovators driving Japan’s economic engine. Observe manufacturing processes while forming valuable connections, getting insights into Japanese business culture and the operational efficiencies, technological advancements, and corporate cultures that underpin the local industry.
Explore the resilience and beauty of Kobe's sights
The iconic Kobe Port Tower and the serene Meriken Park are two symbols of Kobe's resilience and revival post-earthquake. These landmarks offer breathtaking views of the harbor, telling the story of the city’s triumph over adversity. Enjoy 360-degree vistas of the maritime city from the distinctive Port Tower’s panoramic observation deck, enjoy a Kobe beef lunch, or kick back and relax in Meriken Park’s lush green spaces, peppered with modern sculptures and memorials. These architectural marvels offer a blended experience, of history, culture, and stunning urban design in the heart of Kobe.
Embrace spiritual serenity on the Kii Peninsula
Journey to the Kii Peninsula, a revered site filled with sacred trails, ancient shrines, and lush, mystical landscapes. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, this area offers a spiritual experience away from the bustling city life. Walk the age-old paths of Kumano Kodo, visit the grand shrines of Kumano Sanzan, or find peace at the mountaintop temple retreats of Koyasan. Each step on this peninsula takes you through centuries of spiritual tradition, surrounded by some of Japan’s most spectacular natural beauty.
Tour the sites in Omi Hakkei
Discover the timeless beauty of the Omi Hakkei, or the Eight Views of Ōmi, which have inspired poets and artists for centuries. Originally conceptualized during the Edo period, these views encapsulate the serene and picturesque landscapes that line Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Each site offers a unique perspective on natural beauty and has been celebrated in various forms of Japanese art and literature. Modern visitors can indulge in these scenic locations, finding a tranquil escape and a deeper connection to traditional Japanese culture. Perfect for a reflective day trip, the Omi Hakkei provides a soul-soothing experience that contrasts the urban energy of Osaka.
Admire the architectural splendor of Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, a stunning example of classic Japanese castle architecture, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the feudal era. Known as "White Heron Castle" for its brilliant white exterior and poised appearance, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors a spectacular look into Japan’s samurai past. The castle's well-preserved complex and grounds provide a deep dive into the architectural strategies used in fortification while showcasing the elegance of 17th-century design. A visit to Himeji Castle is a journey through the corridors of history and an opportunity to appreciate the peaceful beauty that has survived centuries of turmoil and change.
Step back in time at Engyoji Temple
Perched on the verdant Mount Shosha, Engyoji Temple offers a serene retreat from the bustling cityscape. This ancient temple complex, which has served as a filming location for major films, presents a tangible connection to Japan's rich religious traditions. The expansive grounds are dotted with historic halls and pavilions that echo the chants of monks and the footsteps of pilgrims who have walked these paths for over a thousand years. Visitors can explore the temple's peaceful environs, participate in meditation sessions, and discover ancient artifacts that speak to the temple’s spiritual heritage amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding forest.
Uncover the ancient mystery of the Mozu Tombs
Immerse yourself in history at the Mozu Tombs (Mozu-Furuichi Kofungun), a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sakai, Osaka Prefecture. This collection of kofun or ancient burial mounds, including the massive Nintoku-tenno-ryo Kofun, showcases the burial practices and societal structures of Japan’s Kofun period. The largest of these tombs, renowned for their keyhole shapes, are among the most spectacular archaeological sites in Japan. Visitors can view these grand tombs from the Sakai City Observatory Hall, where they can also get a panoramic view of Osaka and keep an eye on the ongoing developments of the Osaka World Expo 2025.
Beyond the expo for a lasting impression of Osaka
From the tranquil shores of Lake Biwa to the majestic Himeji Castle and beyond, diversifying your experiences guarantees a culturally heightened view of Osaka. These explorations enrich your World Expo 2025 experience and deepen your connection to the historical backdrop of Japan. We invite you to step beyond the Expo’s boundaries and immerse yourself in the unique stories and landscapes that only Osaka and its surroundings can offer. Explore these hidden treasures to capture what makes Osaka a city of endless discovery.
Contact us to book a trip to enrich your World Expo 2025 experience.
