Osaka is often celebrated as a foodie paradise, but its art scene is equally vibrant. From the cultural hub of Nakanoshima, home to the National Museum of Art and the Nakanoshima Art Museum, to other gems within a 60-minute radius of Umeda, the city offers a wealth of artistic experiences. We’ve curated a list of eight must-visit art museums for 2025. Visiting multiple in a single day can be exhausting, so browse our guide to find exhibitions that spark your interest. At Pocket Guide Japan, we also share nearby hotspots and organize art-focused tours around these museums—join us to explore Osaka’s creative side! Start with Your Free Gems! The National […]
Expo 2025 Osaka is a global celebration of creativity, and my recent visit to Yumeshima’s artificial island was nothing short of inspiring. Running from April 13 to October 13, 2025, under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” this world’s fair hosts 161 countries showcasing innovation, culture, and sustainability. With 28 million visitors expected, it’s a vibrant hub for art and culture lovers. Here’s my honest take on the crowds, pavilions, and performances, plus a nudge to explore Osaka’s hidden art scene with Pocket Guide Japan for a deeper cultural dive. Start with Your Free Gems! The Buzz of Expo 2025: Crowds and Energy Walking into Expo 2025 feels […]
Tucked away in Osaka’s bustling core, Utsubo Park blooms as a serene oasis amid the office towers of Honmachi and Higobashi area, cradling a curated collection of small, high-quality gems that define the city’s hidden art scene.In this tranquil enclave, indie galleries like chignitta and the pottery-focused Komanogu—offering Japanese ceramics perfect for souvenirs—spark local creativity. Nearby, the Wakasa Building, home to calo bookshop & cafe and The Third Gallery Aya, pulses with artistic energy. Just steps away, enjoy a budget-friendly sushi lunch, savor delicate Japanese sweets—wagashi, or uncover katsuobushi craftsmanship at a hidden shop.Beyond Utsubo, spots like Nakazakicho’s gallery yolcha and Kitakagaya’s Chidori Bunka enrich Osaka’s artistic tapestry. While Expo 2025 […]