When it comes to Japanese food cities, Osaka leads the pack. Nicknamed “Japan’s kitchen”, you’ll never go hungry in the city, whether you’re craving street stalls, hole-in-the-wall joints or Michelin-starred fine diners. Here’s the LUXE way to spend 24 hours in Osaka:
But first, sushi
Move over Tsukiji – Osaka has the Central Fish Market, which is part of a larger wholesale complex that’s the bustling produce heart of this food-obsessed city. Get there at dawn to watch the tuna auctions, or go for a fishy brekky at Endo Sushi which has been serving it fresh and raw for more than 100 years.
If sushi at dawn isn’t your thing and you’d prefer a cuppa joe first (or instead), there’s Lilo Coffee Roasters just a few minutes walk from the W Osaka.
Oknomiyaki and art
Next stop, more food. You can’t not try Osaka’s quintessential dish – okonomiyaki – at cheap and cheerful Kiji. Think of it as a cross between a savoury pancake and bubble and squeak.
Then, head on over to contemporary art Gallery Yamaguchi kunstbau, which shows plenty of local artists, and was responsible for bringing American minimalist big guns such as Donald Judd and Dan Flavin to Japan. Less commercial, more indie is the oasis-like Gallery Yolcha, the opposite of a big white cube.
Score affordably chic jewellery at Soierie and fashion-forward Japanese clothing and accessories at FFC then stroll and people watch along happening Orange Street, lined with furniture and fashion boutiques and cafes.
Photo: Soierie 
Photo: FFC
Whisky and meat
Osaka is home to terrific Japanese whisky, so make a pilgrimage to Suntory Whisky House, a bar and education centre from the distiller of brands such as Yamazaki, Hibiki and Hakushu, and sip a snifter or three of this revered liquid gold.
Then, get your concierge to secure you a table at teeny Ayamuya for grilled chicken skewers and chicken sashimi at the city’s only Michelinstarred yakitori joint, or try FUJIYA1935, where personable chef Tetsuya Fujiwara brings an omotenashi touch to every aspect of his 2-Mich starred restaurant.
Party on
Party peeps can boogie on down to Maharaja Minami to dance the night away, the legendary disco that celebrates its heyday from the ’80s and ’90s. Dress code applies!
See the full 24-hour itin for Osaka on W Hotels!
This article features the W Osaka and is part of the ‘W Hotels Unleash Your Curiosity campaign in partnership with LUXE.’ Head to W Hotels for more of our 24 hour itineraries featuring the hottest hangouts, best eats and greatest to-do lists across Asia Pacific.
