If you're staying in Tennoji while visiting Osaka, I really recommend spending half a day at Tennoji Zoo!
I thought it would just be a small city zoo, but it was much bigger than expected. There’s a great variety of animals, from giraffes and lions to penguins and polar bears.
The layout is easy to follow, so you don’t have to keep backtracking, and it makes for a really comfortable visit. The grounds are also kept clean and tidy.
It’s great for families with kids, and also perfect for anyone who enjoys taking a slow walk while looking at animals. If you have enough time, I’d recommend setting aside 2–3 hours to explore at a relaxed pace. You definitely won’t get bored!
Tennoji Zoo | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Tsutenkaku Tower
A steel tower which looks like the Eiffel Tower and 75 meters high was built In 1912, on top of a building which was the motif of the Arc de Triomphe, and named “Tsutenkaku” meaning “A building reaching the heaven'' by Nangaku Fujisawa, a Confucian in the early Meiji period. After being broken down due to a fire, citizens lobbied for rebuilding and the current 2nd Tsutenkaku was built in 1956.
I visited Osaka’s landmark, Tsutenkaku Tower. During the day, you can look out over the city, and at night, it becomes even more romantic once it’s lit up. Going up to the rooftop to enjoy the night view is totally worth it!
Besides the observation deck, there’s now the super thrilling TOWER SLIDER. You slide all the way down from high up, and even though it only lasts a few seconds, the speed is such a rush. It made me want to do it again!
If you like taking photos, enjoying night views, and trying exciting attractions, Tsutenkaku is definitely one of Osaka’s must-visit spots. -
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Shinsekai Hon-dori Shopping Street
Tsutenkaku Tower, Jan Jan Yokocho Street, Spa World are in Ebisu-Higashi, Naniwa District. People started calling this area Shinsekai (New World) in 1912, when Tsutenkaku and Japan’s second amusement park, Luna Park, opened. It meant a new-born tourist spot in Osaka. Since then, this amusement street has grown, used as a location for movies and TV dramas, and became a famous site in Osaka.
When I arrived at Osaka’s Shinsekai Hon-dori Shopping Street, I was immediately blown away by the over-the-top 3D signs! Giant pufferfish, octopus, and kushikatsu signs—every shop looks like it’s competing to be the most eye-catching. Every quick photo feels so Osaka.
Even on a weekday, it was packed with tourists from all over the world and incredibly lively! The area is full of all kinds of restaurants and street food. The smell of kushikatsu, takoyaki, and grilled meat drifts through the street, making it hard to stop eating as you walk.
If you want to experience authentic, down-to-earth Osaka culture, Shinsekai is definitely a must-visit! -
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Tennoji Park
An urban park located just steps from Tennoji Station, one of Osaka’s major terminal stations. This historic park opened in 1909 on the former site of the 5th National Industrial Exhibition, which was held in 1903. Its vast 26-hectare grounds are home to a variety of attractions, including Tennoji Zoo.
We stayed near Tennoji Station this time, and the transportation was seriously super convenient. Tennoji Park was just a few minutes away on foot. The wide-open green space and relaxed atmosphere made me instantly forget I was right in the middle of busy Osaka.
The park has spacious lawns, cafes, and you can also visit Tennoji Zoo and Keitakuen Garden while you're there. It’s perfect for letting kids burn off some energy, or for slowing down and taking a break during your trip. The weather was great that day, and it felt so nice sitting on the grass, enjoying the breeze, and watching people picnic leisurely around us. If you’re staying near Tennoji Station, I definitely recommend setting aside half a day to take a walk here and experience a more laid-back side of Osaka. -
