Book a trip from Shanghai to Osaka with Cathay Pacific , fares from CNY2,723

Located 50 km away from the city centre, Kansai International Airport is well-connected with several transport links. The most convenient way of getting into Osaka is a taxi, which takes approximately 45 minutes. There is also the Haruka Express, which brings you from the terminal to centrally-located areas like Tennoji and Shin-Osaka in under an hour. Other modes of transport include car rentals and buses.

Osaka is a vibrant city offering a uniquely Japanese blend of ancient history, a strong sense of tradition, and futuristic technology.

We recommend starting your trip by heading to the Abeno Harukas 300 Observatory which can be accessed from the centrally located Osaka-Abenobashi Station. Atop the observatory, you’ll be able to marvel at panoramic views of the city and all its major attractions. Among these are the nearby Tennoji Park and botanical gardens.

For those interested in the city’s culture, head to what is perhaps its most iconic attraction: Osaka Castle. This 450-year-old building is a historic landmark and is located at the very heart of Osaka. Be sure to explore the museum inside to learn about Japan’s feudal past, the exquisite views from the observation deck and, if you’re visiting during the cherry blossom season, the Osaka Castle Park. Of course, no visit to Osaka would be complete without visiting some of the magnificent temples and shrines across the city. Both the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and Shitenno-ji Temple are bound to impress, with the latter dating back to the 6th century.

To experience the other side of Osaka, head straight to Dotonbori where bustling streets are filled with street food vendors, neon signs, and vibrant nightlife. This is where the world famous Glico Running Man sign is located, making the area perfect for some memorable photos.

Shoppers will also enjoy the retail streets of Shinsaibashi which hosts numerous tax-free and high-end stores carrying an eclectic range of international and local brands. Meanwhile, the 600-meter-long Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade is filled with boutique shops perfect for some retail therapy.

Those looking for a fun-filled adventure could buy tickets to Universal Studios Japan and experience the thrills of various rides and attractions based on popular movies and characters like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels to you. Make your trip to Osaka one to remember by booking luxury accommodation. We recommend The St. Regis Osaka, Conrad Osaka, and W Osaka for their cosy rooms, prime locations, and luxurious array of facilities. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Osaka is often hailed as the 'Kitchen of Japan,' boasts a culinary scene that is as diverse and enticing as the city itself, offering a heavenly journey through the flavours of Japan. It’s hard to go wrong with food in Osaka and we recommend all food enthusiasts explore the culinary delights on offer in the city’s most renowned food districts: Dotonbori for street food, Kuromon Ichiba Market for fresh seafood, and Umeda for luxury dining. Wherever you go, be sure to try Takoyaki (savoury batter balls filled with octopus, green onion, and pickled ginger), Okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), and Kushikatsu (breaded and deep-fried meat).

Before arriving in Osaka, it’s best to know the basics so you can easily navigate your new surroundings. Below is what you need to know before your flight to Osaka.

• Currency: Japanese yen (¥, JPY). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 100V Type A or B
• Time zone: GMT+9
• Language: Japanese