Book a trip from Jakarta to Osaka with Cathay Pacific , fares from IDR9,104,500

Travellers looking to reach downtown Osaka have various alternatives. Taxis are the most convenient mode of transportation, taking between 50 minutes and an hour to reach your destination. Another quick alternative is the Rapid Airport Express, which takes around 40 minutes to get to Osaka Station. Limousine buses are provided at the terminal for more convenient and direct transport to downtown locations, which might take up to an hour, depending on your hotel's location.

For those interested in the city’s history, Osaka Castle offers a memorable blend of culture, nature, and stunning views to kick off your holiday. Built in 1583 by the powerful feudal lord Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the castle played a key role in Japan’s unification during the Sengoku period. The current structure, reconstructed in 1928, houses a fascinating museum that details the castle’s rich history and Osaka’s heritage, with exhibits of samurai armour, weapons, and historical artefacts. Be sure to stop by the observation deck on the top floor, which offers panoramic views of Osaka’s skyline and the surrounding parklands.

If you’re travelling with children, Universal Studios Japan features a variety of attractions based on popular movies and franchises, making it a must-visit for fans of cinema and adventure. Start your day by exploring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can stroll through Hogsmeade, enjoy a butterbeer, and experience thrilling rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Be sure to visit the Minion Park, where the vibrant atmosphere and interactive attractions will delight younger visitors. For those seeking adrenaline, rides like The Flying Dinosaur and Jurassic Park – The Ride offer heart-pounding excitement. Throughout the park, you can enjoy live entertainment, including parades and shows featuring beloved characters.

Wrap up your holiday with a day at the National Museum of Art (NMAO). Located underground on Nakanoshima Island, the museum’s striking architecture, designed by César Pelli and inspired by the vitality of bamboo, creates a unique and immersive atmosphere for visitors. NMAO houses around 8,200 works focusing on Japanese and international contemporary art from 1945 onwards. The museum regularly hosts collection exhibitions and special thematic shows, offering fresh perspectives on modern art.

Cathay Holidays brings the convenience of finding the perfect hotels for your stay. Situated directly above Nankai Railway’s Namba Station, Swissotel Nankai Osaka offers unparalleled convenience and luxury in the heart of the city. With elegantly appointed rooms and suites, guests can enjoy stunning views of the Osaka skyline and access to the exclusive Swiss Executive Lounge. Indulge in exceptional dining experiences at the hotel’s six restaurants and bars, including the renowned Table36, which offers breathtaking city views and exquisite cuisine. For relaxation, the Pürovel Spa & Sport features a full-service spa, gym, hot tub, and an indoor pool. Nearby, explore the vibrant Namba district, known for its shopping, entertainment, and dining options. Visit Dotonbori, famous for its iconic neon lights and street food, or take a short train ride to historical sites like Osaka Castle and the cultural treasures of Kyoto and Nara. If you prefer to explore Midosuji Boulevard, Hotel Nikko Osaka offers immediate access to the city’s vibrant shopping and entertainment districts. The hotel features elegantly designed rooms equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing environment. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including international cuisine and local specialities, all within the hotel. Nearby attractions include the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, offering panoramic views of the city, and the Umeda Sky Building, renowned for its stunning observatory. For those interested in culture, the Namba Grand Kagetsu Theatre showcases traditional Japanese performances. 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 entices food lovers with its vibrant restaurant scene, where an eclectic mix of international flavours intertwines, inviting diners on a mouthwatering journey of culinary fusion. Located in Osaka’s Central Fish Market, Endo Sushi is a century-old sushi institution beloved by locals and travellers alike for its fresh ingredients and traditional style. The restaurant is famous for its unique “tsukami sushi,” where sushi is hand-pressed gently so it melts in your mouth, served on freshly cooked rice made from carefully selected Bizen rice and mineral-rich water. A must-try is the “Jyo-Maze” set, an omakase-style platter featuring five different pieces of seasonal sushi, allowing you to sample a variety of fresh fish such as hamachi (yellowtail), toro (fatty tuna), tai (sea bream), uni (sea urchin), and anago (saltwater eel). The “Aji-bo” (horse mackerel hand roll) is another signature item, prepared with salted and vinegared fresh aji, wasabi, and shiso leaf, wrapped in seaweed. For those looking to try local flavours, Abeno Takoyaki Yamachan is a humble yet highly praised eatery renowned for its crispy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside takoyaki made with a special batter. The batter is crafted from a rich chicken bone broth simmered for hours with fruits, vegetables, kelp, and bonito, giving the takoyaki an umami-packed flavour that stands out. Menu highlights include the plain takoyaki served to savour the natural taste of the batter, and the “Regular” version topped with their homemade sauce and a sprinkle of aoregaki (dried seaweed flakes), which adds a delicious savoury punch. For cheese lovers, the “W Cheese” option offers a double cheese topping that complements the takoyaki’s texture beautifully. Another local favourite is the “Akashiyaki,” a fluffy egg-based takoyaki variant served with a dipping broth.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Osaka.

• Currency: Japanese Yen (¥, JPY). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 100v Types A and B
• Time zone: GMT+9
• Language: Japanese