As a Kiwi who has lived in Osaka for eight years and counting, I've naturally had my fill of the city's major tourist attractions. Don't get me wrong, Osaka Castle and Dotonbori are worth seeing at least once. However, these are the places I actually keep going back to, whether I'm meeting friends, looking for a good meal, or simply enjoying a day off.
☕Brooklyn Roasting Company (Cafe)
I'm always looking for a great latte. Brooklyn Roasting Company is my favourite because the coffee is strong and the milk is properly textured. Not to mention, the cup size is generous and you are likely able to find a seat if you go alone or with a friend. I visited the Namba branch often when I lived closer, but the Kitahama branch is my go-to now. If I'm craving a proper latte in Osaka, this is still my first choice.
🍃Minoh Falls & Katsuoji Temple
If I had to pick one time to visit, it would be May or June, just before the rainy season. The vivid light green of new momiji leaves (新緑 shin-ryoku) is my favourite time to be outside. If you don't have enough time, Minoh Falls (箕面大滝) is enough. The trail to the waterfall is maintained so anyone can visit. Bring a sandwich or onigiri to enjoy once you arrive, but make sure to keep an eye out for monkeys who will nick them without mercy!
Katsuoji Temple (勝尾寺), also known as the Daruma Temple, is further up the hill and only accessible by bus or car. In my opinion, it's worth visiting at least once. The spacious temple grounds and surrounding nature are my favourite escape from the city.
🛍️Rinku Premium Outlets
I'm an opportunistic shopper, so I love a bargain. There are so many major brands gathered here in one place and everything is discounted. I went a lot during my early 20's when I was still building my closet, but I still drop by every now and then to window shop. There is also the LaLaport Kadoma in Osaka which is nice because it's located indoors, however in my experience, I tend to find better bargains at Rinku.
🐔Torikizoku (Yakitori)
I can't tell you the number of times I've been here. All year round, for any occasion. All menu items have a uniform price, and the quality is unbeatable. My recommendations are the signature Torikizoku-yaki (chicken thigh with spice version), chicken hearts, and grilled grated yam (yamaimo teppanyaki). I remember the times when it used to be 280 yen per item, but that's slowly gone up to 390 yen and now 410 yen from October 2026. I love this chain too much to quit, so I will savour every bite more from now on.
In reality, I work full-time from Monday to Friday and spend many weekends doing ordinary things like laundry, meal prep, and catching up on life. But that's exactly why I value these places so much. They're not necessarily Osaka's most famous attractions, but they are the places I keep choosing to return to. After eight years here, I think that's the highest recommendation I can give.
