Stretching along an idyllic coastline, Osaka lies in the heart of the Kansai region. The greater Osaka area, which also includes Kobe and Kyoto, is one of Japan’s most important economic centres. The city has a lower cost of living than Tokyo while still offering a high quality of life. Expats moving to Osaka often do so to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle at a reasonable price.

Living in Osaka as an expat

As Japan’s primary area of business and commerce until the 20th century, Osaka connected Japan with other countries such as Korea and China. The city has been shaped most by its merchants. Their influence has inspired the metropolis to become a cultural centre, especially in terms of entertainment, arts, and food. Known as the source of much of Japan’s most delicious fresh produce, Osaka is also frequently referred to as the Kitchen of Japan.

As the city has always been a point of contact with the world outside of Japan, most Osakans welcome foreigners and will eagerly help whenever a newcomer to the city gets lost. Orientation can be challenging in Osaka since the city is divided into numbered areas.

It’s advisable to note a few landmarks for reference, such as hotels, supermarkets and parks, to help when asking for directions or directing a taxi. On the other hand, using Osaka’s extensive public transport system, which consists of subways, railways, and buses, is easy and convenient.

Getting Around in Osaka

Cost of living in Osaka

Although the cost of living in Osaka is noticeably cheaper than in Tokyo, expats will still likely need to keep a close eye on their budget, particularly when it comes to accommodation and utilities.

Public transport is reasonably priced, but using taxis can become expensive fast. Eating out is relatively cheap as long as you stick to local fare. Single expats may even find this more cost-effective than buying ingredients to cook for one person.

Cost of Living in Osaka

Families and children in Osaka

For many families, education and healthcare are a priority, and Osaka offers a good standard of both, plus plenty of entertainment options to keep the kids occupied.

Public schools are largely excellent, although this can come at the price of a high-pressure academic environment. Getting to grips with Japanese, the language of instruction, is another hurdle to overcome. For many families, international schools are an ideal solution to these issues, allowing children to be taught a familiar curriculum in their home language.

When it comes to family fun, parents will be pleased to know that getting bored in this thriving city is virtually impossible. There’s a wide range of kid-friendly activities throughout Osaka, including the thrilling rides at the Universal Studios theme park.

Best International Schools in Osaka 
Lifestyle in Osaka 
Best Hospitals in Osaka

Climate in Osaka

Expats moving to Osaka will need to get used to the ever-present rain in the city. Downpours are most common in June – the height of summer – but rain falls regularly for most of the year. While the resulting humidity during this time can be uncomfortable, winters are more pleasantly mild.

Weather in Osaka

While the city’s weather can be damp, the spirit of Osaka is anything but. Expats will soon feel at home in this humming metropolis full of opportunities for career progression, new friends, and an excellent quality of life.

While the weather in Osaka may not be its main draw, the city’s climate offers mild and manageable conditions throughout most of the year.

Summers, specifically in July and August, can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching highs of 95°F (35°C). The city’s rainy season in June and sometimes into July brings consistent rainfall, making it the wettest period of the year.

Although winters from December to February are generally mild, with temperatures usually remaining above 50°F (10°C), occasional cold spells can see the mercury drop below this mark. Rainfall decreases during these winter months but begins increasing again in February.

Spring and autumn offer pleasant transitional weather, with mild days offering the ideal time of year to do some exploring.

Osaka is Japan’s third most populous city after Tokyo and Yokohama, and space comes at a premium. Expats looking for accommodation in Osaka will need to have a clear idea of their needs and wants. Proximity to work and schools, transport links and budget are a few of the main aspects to consider when renting in Osaka.

Areas and suburbs in Osaka

Osaka is divided into several distinct areas and suburbs, each with its own unique appeal. There are two main city centres. The first, known as Namba, is a bustling area that functions as a hub for business and entertainment. Umeda is another key business district with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. For families, the areas of Tennoji and Sumiyoshi are popular due to their family-friendly amenities, including parks and schools.

Minato Ward, located near Osaka’s port, offers a slower pace of life. It’s popular among expats due to its convenient access to the city centre and relative affordability. Lastly, those seeking a more traditional Japanese experience might consider the historic district of Osaka Castle Park, located in Chuo Ward.

See Areas and Suburbs in Osaka for more about the city’s neighbourhoods.

Types of accommodation in Osaka

In Osaka, apartments are the most easily found type of accommodation and are a common choice among expats. Generally, the closer apartments are to public transport and the city centre, the more expensive they become. Newer housing is also pricier than older builds.

Most apartments fall into one of two categories: apato and manshon. Older buildings, usually no higher than two storeys and made of wood or light steel, are known as apato. Although cheaper, they are less comfortable than manshon; newer builds are made of more sturdy materials, such as concrete.

Some expats, especially young ones on a budget, opt to live in a gaikokujin house. This is a large house shared by several inhabitants, often foreigners. Setups can differ from house to house, but typically comprise small individual flatlets or large rooms with shared common areas.

Finding accommodation in Osaka

As is the case throughout Japan, the rental market in Osaka is competitive. Doing research beforehand on the local housing market, including typical costs and desirable areas, can help expats to get a jump start on the process before moving. Online property portals and expat forums can be useful sources of information.

When the time comes to begin the search, expats should go through a real estate agent, as landlords are often hesitant to rent to foreigners. In addition, good agents can usually speak both English and Japanese well and have comprehensive knowledge of the local areas.

Renting accommodation in Osaka

Making an application

When making an application for an apartment, expats will need to fill out an application form provided by the real estate agency. This includes providing information about employment status and income. Expats should also prepare for a credit check. In some cases, a personal interview with the landlord may also be necessary.

It’s important to note that expats may be required to provide a guarantor – a Japanese resident who agrees to cover the rent if the tenant fails to do so. Some companies offer guarantor services to foreigners for a fee if they do not have someone who can take on this role.

Leases, costs and fees

Rental leases in Osaka are usually for two years. While there’s no legal limit on the deposit, it’s typically equivalent to one to three months’ rent. Another unique aspect of renting in Japan is the ‘key money’ or reikin, a non-refundable payment to the landlord which can be equivalent to one to two months’ rent. This isn’t always charged, but it’s common in Osaka.

Most contracts don’t include the cost of utilities or maintenance fees (for communal areas such as gardens and lifts). Tenants will usually need to pay these separately.

Lastly, tenants should be aware that when renewing a lease, it’s common to pay a renewal fee. This is usually equivalent to one month’s rent but can vary.

See Accommodation in Japan for detailed information on the rental process in the country.

Utilities in Osaka

In most cases, utilities are a separate cost on top of rent. However, in some cases, the landlord might arrange utilities and include them in the rental price. It’s therefore essential to carefully read the terms of the lease to see what is and isn’t included.

Electricity

Electricity in Osaka is billed monthly based on usage. When moving in, tenants can set up an account with the local electricity provider, Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO). Costs can vary depending on the season, with usage typically higher in summer and winter due to heating and cooling needs.

Gas

Gas is used for cooking and heating water in most Osaka homes. Like electricity, it is billed monthly based on usage. Osaka Gas is the major supplier in the region. When moving in, tenants need to call the gas company to have the gas turned on and the meter read.

Water

The drinking water in Osaka comes from the Yodo River, and the water supply is reliable and safe to drink from the tap. It is billed every two months based on usage. To set up a water account, tenants need to contact the Osaka City Waterworks Bureau.

Waste disposal

Osaka follows a strict rubbish sorting and disposal system, with different types of waste collected on designated days. Waste in Japan is typically separated into burnable and non-burnable rubbish, and as such, most households will have two distinct bins.

Burnable waste is usually collected two to three times per week, while non-burnable waste is collected only once. Tenants are responsible for disposing of their waste following local guidelines. Failure to comply can result in fines.

Internet and telephone

There are many providers offering internet and telephone services in Osaka. Major providers include NTT, KDDI and Softbank. Packages can vary significantly in terms of price and speed, so it’s important to compare options. Some providers may require a minimum contract term, usually 24 months, and early termination fees may apply.

Keeping in Touch in Japan has more on staying connected in the country.

Useful links

• Osaka Gas
• KEPCO
• Osaka City’s Environmental Bureau

The best places to live in Osaka

With two major city centres, Osaka’s unusual layout lends the city an interesting structure. Progressively quieter areas fan out from these vibrant centres. Thanks to Osaka’s excellent transport system, it isn’t necessary to live right on the doorstep of major employment sectors to get to work within a reasonable commute time.

Expats searching for a new place to call home will find plenty of fantastic areas and suburbs in Osaka, each with a unique personality and quirks.

City living in Osaka

These areas in Osaka are perfect for individuals and couples who love the energy and convenience of city living. These districts offer easy access to entertainment, shopping, dining venues and exceptional transport links to the rest of Osaka.

Umeda and Namba

Umeda and Namba, Osaka’s two city centres, are nine to 15 minutes apart by subway, and both are high-energy business and entertainment areas. Most accommodation in both areas is in the form of high-rise apartments. Shopping and dining opportunities abound, making these areas a favourite among young professionals or couples. Umeda and Namba are both major transport hubs, so travelling around the rest of Osaka is a breeze.

Shinsaibashi

Shinsaibashi is a bustling shopping district in the heart of Osaka, characterised by its covered shopping street, Shinsaibashi suji. The area is also home to a variety of restaurants, offering everything from native Osaka delicacies to international cuisine. Nearby, the lively neighbourhood of Amerikamura, often likened to Tokyo’s Harajuku, is a hub of youth culture and fashion.

For expats, Shinsaibashi offers high-rise apartments with quick access to both work and play. Its central location and excellent transport links make commuting easy. While it can be busy, the convenience and vibrant nightlife make Shinsaibashi a popular choice for young, single expats and couples. It’s an area that genuinely captures the energetic spirit of Osaka.

Tennoji

Tennoji is an up-and-coming district in Osaka that offers modern urban amenities and rich historical and cultural attractions. Recently, it’s become known as Osaka’s third major downtown hub. It’s home to some of Osaka’s most iconic structures, including the Tsutenkaku Tower and Tennoji Zoo. Abeno Harukas, one of Japan’s tallest skyscrapers, is also located in Tennoji, housing a department store, art museum, hotel, and observatory with panoramic views of Osaka.

Accommodation options in Tennoji range from high-rise apartments to more traditional houses in quiet, residential streets. Its central location and excellent public transport make it a convenient place for working professionals and families alike. Tennoji has a sense of energy and regeneration, making it an exciting place for expats to call home.

Family-friendly suburbs in Osaka

For expats with families, these suburban areas provide a balance of convenience and quality of life. They offer a variety of housing options and access to international schools, and they are known for their welcoming communities and scenic surroundings.

Toyonaka

Close to the airport and conveniently located just a short train trip away from Umeda, Toyonaka is often referred to as the ‘gate to Osaka’. High-quality accommodation in the form of houses and apartments, along with plenty of amenities like shopping malls, makes this a popular choice among expats. Toyonaka is growing in popularity among foreigners.

Home to the Toyonaka International Center, this area is an ideal place for expats to begin their journey as new arrivals in Osaka.

Ashiya

Ashiya is a wealthy area known for its stunning view over Osaka Bay. For those who can afford it, this is a lovely place to settle down and has been home to numerous big names over the years, from Nobel Prize winners to revered writers.

Wide, tree-lined streets, hillside homes and large properties with amenities such as tennis courts and swimming pools create a sense of luxury. Expat families, in particular, favour Ashiya for its location midway between Osaka and Kobe, both of which have prestigious international schools easily reachable by bus.

Minoh

Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, Minoh offers a perfect blend of city convenience and natural beauty. This suburban city is nestled among the hills to the north of Osaka and is known for the scenic Minoh Park. This stunning national park features a breathtaking waterfall, hiking trails and a large population of wild monkeys.

The neighbourhood is home to several international schools, which makes it a popular choice for expat families. The community here is diverse and welcoming, and English is commonly spoken, making the transition easier for newcomers. Properties range from modern apartments to larger houses, offering something for everyone.

Healthcare in Japan, and particularly in Osaka, is of a high standard. Everyone living in Japan, including foreigners, is required to enrol in a public health insurance system. Contributions to these systems are mandatory and are calculated according to income level.

Expats usually fall under one of two nationalised healthcare schemes: the Employees’ Health Insurance (EHI) or the National Health Insurance (NHI). Those employed in Japan have coverage under the EHI, while the NHI caters to those who don’t qualify for the EHI, such as the self-employed and the unemployed.

Both schemes fund 70 to 90 percent of medical expenses, with the patient covering the remaining costs. The amount covered varies by age group. Some choose to purchase private health insurance to handle the balance and any procedures not covered by public insurance.

Below is a list of notable hospitals in Osaka known for their good medical services and support for non-Japanese-speaking patients.

Hospitals in Osaka

NHO Osaka National Hospital

Website: osaka.hosp.go.jp 
Address: 2 Chome-1-14 Hoenzaka, Chuo Ward, Osaka 540-0006

Osaka Central Hospital

Website: www.osaka centralhp.jp 
Address: 3 Chome-3-30 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka 530-0001

Osaka University Hospital

Website: www.hosp.med.osaka u.ac.jp 
Address: 2-15 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871

Rinku General Medical Center

Website: www.rgmc.izumisano.osaka.jp 
Address: 2 Chome-23 Rinkumachi, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8577

The standard of education and schools in Osaka is high. While public schools offer a good level of education, they teach in Japanese. For most expats, this makes them an impractical option unless the family plans on staying in Japan for the long term or their children are young enough to pick up the language quickly. As a result, expat parents often prefer to send their children to international schools in Osaka, where they can be taught a familiar curriculum in their home language.

For more on the national education system, see Education and Schools in Japan.

Public and private schools in Osaka

In Osaka, language support programmes may be provided in public schools. These programmes are aimed at assisting non-Japanese-speaking students in adapting to the new environment. They can be a big help for expat parents considering local schooling.

Public elementary and junior high schools in Osaka are assigned according to the family’s address. Compulsory schooling lasts nine years, from the beginning of elementary school to the last year of junior high. During this period, education is free of charge for locals and foreigners alike, apart from contributions for teaching aids and the cost of school lunches.

Due to the high standard of public schools, most Japanese children attend them up to the end of junior high. When the time comes for making high school applications, there are generally more students than places available at the best public schools. Private schools typically have the space to accommodate students who aren’t accepted to their public high school of choice.

International schools in Osaka

Most expat families in Osaka opt to send their children to one of the city’s international schools. These schools teach a foreign curriculum in the language of the school’s country of origin. Most commonly, these schools offer the US, UK, or International Baccalaureate curriculum and teach in English, but there are also schools catering to other nationalities, such as French or German schools.

The best schools can quickly become oversubscribed, so it’s always best to start applications as far in advance as possible. Fees at international schools worldwide have a reputation for being high, and Osaka is no exception. In addition to tuition, extra fees can include compulsory contributions towards building maintenance, technology, bus service, lunches, and extracurriculars.

Useful links

• International Schools in Osaka

Homeschooling in Osaka

Some expat families in Osaka opt for homeschooling. Expat communities in Osaka often organise homeschooling cooperatives or shared learning environments, providing social interaction and collective learning experiences. This can be a beneficial resource for parents considering homeschooling their child in Osaka.

Until the end of junior high, families must request permission from their assigned public school to homeschool. In most cases, schools are understanding and supportive, especially in cases where English support is limited at the school.

Special-needs education in Osaka

Osaka has several resources dedicated to students with special needs. Public schools in the city have special-needs support teams, and dedicated institutions like Osaka City Special-Needs Education School specialise in providing high-quality education for children with specific needs.

Children with special educational needs usually attend public schools alongside the general student body wherever possible. Depending on the nature and severity of the child’s disabilities, extra support is offered, whether in the form of attending special resource rooms a few times a week or attending special-needs classes within the school.

In the case of acute disabilities, children may attend a dedicated special-needs school. The curriculum at these schools is the same as that taught in public schools, with added activities that teach day-to-day living skills.

International schools often have support programmes for certain conditions or disabilities, although some offer more comprehensive assistance than others. This will generally come at an extra fee.

Tutors in Osaka

Tutoring services in Osaka offer special programmes for preparing students for local high schools’ and universities’ entrance examinations and international standardised tests such as the SAT and ACT. These can benefit expat students navigating the Japanese education system or planning to study abroad.

Several prominent tutoring centres in Osaka, such as Kumon and Juku schools, offer personalised tutoring services. These centres have local and foreign educators adept at teaching as per the Japanese curriculum and international standards.

Not all tutoring services provide equally good service, so it’s best to do thorough research before deciding on a particular company. Recommendations from schools and fellow expats are usually the best place to start.

For many expats moving to Japan, the choice of a good international school is an essential part of relocation. Finding the right school means that expat children can learn a curriculum they are familiar with, often in their native language, reducing the potential cultural and academic shock. Although Tokyo hosts a greater selection, international schools in Osaka cater to diverse educational systems.

International schools in Osaka provide a range of curricula, including education systems originating from the UK and the US, along with the globally respected International Baccalaureate (IB) system. Schools following curricula from abroad typically maintain strong connections to their home country’s educational departments, ensuring a comparable quality of education. The IB curriculum, renowned for its rigorous, holistic approach to education, is taught all over the globe, offering a transferable educational pathway recognised worldwide.

Osaka’s multicultural community sees various international schools reflecting other countries’ educational systems, including those of Germany and France. These schools typically offer dual language instruction, facilitating a rich bilingual environment. The educational institutions in the greater Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe area reflect Japan’s commitment to multiculturalism, diversity and international collaboration in education.

Below is a list of recommended international schools for expat families in Osaka.

International schools in Osaka

Deutsche Schule Kobe International

DSK International (DSKI) is a German school abroad and an International Baccalaureate World School. Currently an elementary school, DSKI has plans to expand its offerings and introduce a secondary school.

DSKI fosters lifelong learners who are internationally minded, can think critically, respect diversity and act with compassion. The school uniquely offers trilingual education, where students are immersed in English, German, and Japanese within their curriculum and co-curricular activities. This approach is aimed at developing multilingual global citizens passionate about learning and making a difference in the world.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: German and International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 2 to 12 years 
Website: www.dskobe.org

Lycée Français International de Kyoto

Situated in the heart of Kyoto, the Lycée Français International de Kyoto (LFIK) is a thriving school community of French-speaking families. Recognised by the French Ministry of National Education and affiliated with the Agency for French Education Abroad, the school has been committed to fostering mastery of both French and Japanese languages and cultural exchange for over two decades.

Today, LFIK continues to grow, bringing together a community of dedicated parents and teachers working towards making the school a vibrant, interactive space for learning, exchange and development for its students.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: French 
Ages: 2 to 18 years 
Website: www.lfikyoto.org

Marist Brothers International School

Marist Brothers International School (MBIS) is a private, college-preparatory institution offering a holistic approach to education from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Established in 1951, MBIS became an IB World School in 2017, committed to fostering inquisitive, knowledgeable and compassionate individuals.

MBIS stands out for its emphasis on character and community, which it deems integral to the Marist ‘difference’, ensuring its students not only achieve academic excellence but are also well prepared for success in their future endeavours.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 18 years 
Website: www.marist.ac.jp

Osaka International School

Osaka International School (OIS) has been catering to the international community of the Kansai region since 1991. Alongside its sister school, Senri International School, OIS offers a unique dual language learning environment, with shared classes in PE, art, music and more.

The school boasts an impressive music programme and a competitive sports scheme. With more than 250 students of 35 nationalities, OIS encourages its students to become informed, caring, creative contributors to the global community.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 18 years 
Website: www.senri.ed.jp

The lifestyle in Osaka is lively and built on a rich history and thriving innovation. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vast metropolis, with shopping, eating out, entertainment, and outdoor activities galore.

Shopping in Osaka

Historically a merchant city, it’s no stretch to say that Osaka is packed with some of Japan’s best shopping opportunities. There are two main shopping areas: Namba (Minami) in the south and Umeda (Kita) in the north.

Osaka is also dotted with speciality shopping areas, from the electronics and gaming hub Den Den Town to Doguyasuji, which sells all manner of kitchen and cooking goods for amateur cooks and pro chefs alike.

For a unique experience, Namba Parks Shopping Complex is not to be missed. The complex is designed to bring an outside feel to the urban shopping experience. Hanging gardens, waterfalls, and rock formations can be found throughout all eight floors of the complex, culminating in a sprawling open-air rooftop garden. A canyon-like structure carves its way through the centre of the building, giving those on the rooftop a breathtaking view right down to ground level.

Eating out in Osaka

Osaka is nicknamed ‘the kitchen of Japan’ for good reason, and it won’t take expats long to find out why. The city is bursting with fine dining restaurants, cheap-as-chips street food and everything in between. Be sure to try the wide variety of authentic Japanese food on offer, like sushi and ramen, not to mention takoyaki, Osaka’s trademark dish of batter balls stuffed with octopus.

Nightlife in Osaka

Shinsaibashi and Namba are Osaka’s nightlife hotspots, home to all forms of entertainment. These easily walkable areas are perfect for bar hopping.

Expect to find swish cocktail bars, down-to-earth Irish pubs and izakaya – casual Japanese bars that serve drinks and snacks. ‘All you can eat’ (tabe hōdai) and ‘all you can drink’ (nomi hōdai) specials are common in izakaya, making them an excellent budget option.

Outdoor activities in Osaka

Nature-loving expats will be spoilt for choice in Osaka, with plenty of green spaces and parks in which to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tennoji Park is a lovely place to picnic, take a stroll or enjoy a bike ride. The park is especially beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. Hikers will surely enjoy Minoh Park and its well-known trails, such as Takimichi. Just a short way into the park is a beautiful waterfall, while Ryoanji Temple can be found further along the route.

See and do in Osaka

From breathtaking historical sites to thrilling theme parks, there’s plenty to see and do in Osaka. Families, culture vultures, foodies, and adrenaline junkies are all well catered for.

Here are some of our favourite things to see and do in Osaka while getting to know the city.

Kuromon Market

For the city’s best street food, head to Kuromon Market. This bustling market is bursting with fresh produce and top-grade meat from all over Japan, and is popular among both locals and tourists. After stocking up, be sure to indulge in the mouthwatering seafood dishes and traditional sweet treats that can be found throughout the market.

Osaka Castle

Originally completed in the late 1500s, this iconic castle has a fascinating history. When it was built, Osaka Castle was the largest castle in Japan. Over the centuries, this stunning castle has been destroyed and rebuilt twice, enduring the test of time, and it is well worth a visit.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

For a spectacular view over Osaka, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel is a must. The 15-minute ride over the bay is especially dazzling at night, as the wheel brings riders up to 368 feet (112m) above the sparkling city. The wheel is lit up at night in different colours according to the weather forecast for the following day: yellow for sunny, green for cloudy and blue for rainy.

Universal Studios Japan

For a memorable day out, Universal Studios Japan is hard to beat. One of the latest additions is Super Nintendo World, featuring beloved characters from the infamous Mario video games. Another highlight is undoubtedly The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here, visitors can enjoy Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, an exhilarating 360-degree rollercoaster that engages all the senses, including temperature changes ranging from the Dementor’s chill to the heat of dragon breath.

Despite the city’s large size, getting around in Osaka is fairly straightforward. Plenty of options make local travel easy. Trains and subways are the best and most comprehensive forms of public transport, although the sheer number of routes available can be dizzying. While taxis are fast and reliable, they are expensive.

Public transport in Osaka

Public transport in Osaka uses a smart card system known as ICOCA. This prepaid card allows travellers to easily pay for railway and bus rides, and can even be used at certain shops. ICOCA cards can be purchased and recharged at railway stations, either via ticket vending machines or at the ticket office.

Subway

Nine colour-coded lines make up the subway system in Osaka. Each station has a name as well as an alphanumeric code. This can significantly ease pronunciation issues. It’s easy to see that ‘M14’, for example, is much less of a tongue twister than ‘Nishinakajima Minamigata’.

The subway runs from 5am to midnight every day of the week. Taking the subway at peak travel times can be chaotic due to overcrowding. Expats should note that it’s a common courtesy in Japan to avoid speaking loudly or making phone calls on the subway. This helps maintain a peaceful environment for all commuters.

Trains

The main rail service in Osaka is operated by West Japan Railway Company (WJRC). The network is made up of nine train lines, including a Shinkansen (bullet train) line. These connect Osaka to surrounding regions and are an excellent way to travel around the greater Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe metropolitan area.

Buses

The bus service in Osaka is comprehensive and convenient. Many bus stops are adjacent to railway stations, making transferring easy. The bus is boarded in the rear or centre, and passengers exit through the front of the bus, paying the fare as they leave. Each trip is charged at a flat rate.

While English is not widely spoken among bus drivers, expats might find it helpful to have a few key Japanese phrases on hand or to have their destination written down in Japanese.

Useful links

• ICOCA
• Osaka Metro
• West Japan Railway Company
• Osaka City Bus

Taxis in Osaka

All taxis in Osaka are regulated and use meters with standardised pricing. Although expensive, taxis are a valuable option to have, especially when the subway is closed for the night or if your destination isn’t close to a train station or bus stop. Taxis can be found in taxi ranks around the city or can be hailed from the street. An occupied taxi will display a red light on the windscreen.

Expats should keep in mind that not all taxi drivers may be fluent in English, so it’s best to have your destination address written down in Japanese. Another cultural note: taxis in Japan are equipped with automatic doors controlled by the driver, so there’s no need for travellers to open or close the door themselves.

Ride-hailing apps like Uber are available in Osaka and are a valuable alternative to regular taxis.

Useful links

• Uber
• Osaka Taxi Association

Driving in Osaka

Expats wanting to drive in Osaka will initially need an international driver’s permit. This allows you to start driving on arrival in Japan.

To get a local licence, residents must first have their licence from home officially translated into Japanese. After making an appointment at the nearest Japanese Driving Centre, the licence translation is submitted along with several other documents, including proof of residence.

Once these documents have been processed, expats from certain countries will be granted a local licence immediately. Others must first pass written and practical tests before their licence is issued.

Find out more about Driving in Japan.

Cycling and walking in Osaka

Although Osaka is large, the terrain is generally flat, making walking and cycling a pleasant way to get around within specific areas. Both are popular pursuits among locals. Alternative modes of transport, like the subway or bus, are recommended for longer distances.

If you’re planning to cycle, your bicycle needs to be registered with the police – an easy but necessary process. When travelling on foot, be aware that jaywalking is frowned upon, and it’s common practice to wait for the light, even if there’s no traffic.