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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Yao sharing quite a few of those!
Yao is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
It’s a mystical place filled with enchanted forests and ancient temples waiting to be explored.
With every step, you’ll feel like you’re walking into a fairytale.
Yao is a magical adventure waiting for you to uncover its secrets.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Yao:
1. Kinpusenji Temple
Kinpusenji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in the city of Yao, Japan. It is considered one of the most significant temples in all of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which include several buildings and structures dating back centuries. The main hall, Zao Hall, is particularly impressive, with its towering pillars and intricate architecture.
The nearby Nio-mon Gate is also worth seeing.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of a visit to Kinpusenji Temple is the opportunity to see the temple’s large wooden statue of Zao Gongen, one of the main deities worshipped at the temple.
At times, visitors may also get to see monks perform traditional Buddhist rituals and ceremonies.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the history and significance of Kinpusenji Temple, it’s a good idea to hire a tour guide or book a guided tour.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the temple grounds are expansive and require a fair bit of walking.
Lastly, if you’re visiting Japan during the fall, be sure to plan your visit for late October or early November, when the temple’s surrounding forests are ablaze with autumn colors.
2. Osugidani Park
A picturesque park located in Yao, Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy walking trails, a pond, a waterfall, and a fountain. There are also tennis courts, baseball fields, and a playground for children.
Don’t miss: The cherry blossom trees in the springtime are a must-see, and the autumn foliage is also stunning in the fall.
Insider travel tips: Consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenery. If you’re visiting during peak season, arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.
3. Takisanji Temple
Takisanji Temple is a serene Buddhist temple located in the city of Yao in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk through the peaceful grounds to see stunning architecture and ornate decorations. There are also various shrines and statues to admire.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the main hall, which is a designated National Treasure of Japan. It features beautiful wooden carvings and unique architectural elements.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are several stairs and uneven pathways.
4. Tannan Memorial Park
Tannan Memorial Park is a peaceful and beautifully designed park located in Yao, Osaka. It serves as a solemn reminder of the Tannan Tunnel disaster that occurred in 1991.
What to see or do: The park features a serene walking path, memorial fountain, and an observation tower. Visitors can pay their respects at the memorial wall and view the beautifully landscaped gardens.
Don’t miss: The Tannan Observation Tower provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including Mount Ikoma and Osaka Bay. The memorial fountain, which erupts every hour, is also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the tranquility of the park, visit on a weekday and arrive early in the day. The observation tower is closed on Mondays.
Also, be mindful of the park’s solemn purpose and be respectful during your visit.
5. Okinohata Yakuyoke Hachimangu
Okinohata Yakuyoke Hachimangu is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Yao, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the grounds of the shrine, admire the traditional Japanese architecture of the buildings, and witness the rituals performed by the priests.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the main hall of the shrine, which houses the deity Hachiman, and the beautiful torii gate at the entrance.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should be respectful and follow the customs of the shrine, including bowing and purifying themselves at the temizuya (water pavilion) before entering.
It is also recommended to visit during the annual festival held in May, where the bustling atmosphere and traditional performances make for a memorable experience.
6. Yao Forest Park
Yao Forest Park is a scenic nature reserve located in the Guangxi province of China.
What to see or do: The park boasts a stunning landscape of karst limestone formations, lush greenery, and serene waterfalls. Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the park’s many trails and marvel at the breathtaking views.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including macaques and Chinese pangolins, so keep an eye out for these creatures.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Baiyun Cave, one of the most impressive caves in the park.
The cave is filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, some of which have formed into intricate shapes that resemble animals and castles.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit the park on a weekday and arrive early in the morning.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks as the park is quite expansive and can take several hours to explore.
Additionally, be respectful of the park’s wildlife and do not feed or disturb the animals.
7. Minami-Yawata Green Space
A large public park located in the city of Yao, Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: This park offers a wide range of activities to visitors. You can take a walk, jog or bike along the park’s trails while enjoying the blossoming flowers.
There are many picnic areas where you can spend time with family and friends. You can also enjoy various sports activities like tennis, basketball, and baseball.
The park has several ponds and a river where you can engage in fishing for carp and catfish.
Don’t miss: The wide open space and the serene environment.
Insider travel tips: Carry bug spray during the summer as there are many mosquitoes. If travelling with kids, there is a well-equipped playground area that they can enjoy.
Additionally, the park is free of charge, making it a perfect budget-friendly activity.
8. Aizenji Temple
A traditional Japanese temple located in Yao, Osaka Prefecture.
What to see or do: Take in the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere of the temple grounds. Explore the various altars and areas of worship throughout the temple.
Don’t miss: Visiting the temple’s iconic five-story pagoda, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during one of the temple’s annual festivals to experience traditional Japanese culture and customs.
Also, take a moment to try the temple’s famous sweet red bean soup, which is made fresh daily and is a local specialty.
9. Mount Shigi
Mount Shigi is a beautiful mountain located in Yao city, just outside of Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a hike up the mountain to see stunning views of the surrounding area. Along the way, you will pass through lush forests, ancient temples, and peaceful shrines.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view from the summit of Mount Shigi. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Osaka Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike.
10. Namba Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street
Namba Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street is an iconic shopping street in Yao, Japan, famous for its impressive collection of kitchenware shops.
What to see or do: You can find all sorts of cooking utensils, pots and pans, and kitchen gadgets here. From traditional Japanese knives to high-tech rice cookers, you will come across an incredible variety of cooking tools and equipment.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the beautiful displays of ceramics, lacquerware, and sake cups. You can also pick up some local food products as souvenirs, including dried bonito flakes and specialty tea.
Insider travel tips: While the street can be crowded, try to visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend rush.
11. Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is a historic castle in Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s interior and learn about its history through various exhibits and displays.
The surrounding park and gardens are also worth a visit, especially in the springtime when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Don’t miss: The observation deck on the eighth floor of the castle offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to beat the crowds.
12. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Sumiyoshi Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in Yao City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan.
The shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deities who are believed to protect the sea and keep people safe on their travels.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the magnificent architectural style of the shrine consisting of several buildings such as the Main Sanctuary, Outer Sanctuary, and Sorihashi Bridge.
The serene and peaceful atmosphere of the shrine and its surrounding gardens offers visitors a chance to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Don’t miss: The Shrine’s Sorihashi Bridge is an iconic landmark visitors should not miss. It is a beautiful and symbolic structure in the middle of the pond, featuring breathtaking reflections in the water.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should take the time to attend one of the festivals and events that take place each year, including the Sumiyoshi Festival in July and Hatsumode in January, which is a Japanese New Year’s tradition of the first shrine visit of the year.
It is also advised to visit the shrine early in the morning to avoid large crowds.
13. Dotonbori Bridge
The Dotonbori Bridge is an iconic pedestrian bridge situated in the heart of Osaka’s bustling entertainment district of Dotonbori.
What to see or do: The bridge offers a fantastic view of the Dotonbori canal and the colorful neon-lit street decorations that make for excellent photo opportunities.
You can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and take in the lively atmosphere of the district.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the famous Glico Running Man neon sign, which is visible from the bridge and has become a symbol of Osaka’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Insider travel tips: Come at night when the neon lights are on for the best experience. Also, don’t forget to try some of the delicious local street food stalls that line the nearby streets at night.
14. Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade
Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade is a covered shopping street located in the heart of Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: This shopping arcade boasts over 180 stores and stalls selling a wide range of products such as fashion items, accessories, electronics, and food.
It’s the perfect place to shop for souvenirs or indulge in some retail therapy.
Don’t miss: Visitors should not miss the famous Glico Running Man, a giant neon signboard featuring a runner crossing the finish line. It has become an iconic landmark in Osaka and a popular spot for taking photos.
Insider travel tips: The arcade gets crowded during weekends and holidays, so it’s recommended to visit on weekdays. Also, make sure to try some of the local street food such as takoyaki or okonomiyaki while exploring the arcade.
Finally, some shops may offer tax-free shopping for international visitors, so don’t forget to bring your passport.
15. Tsutenkaku Tower
A towering landmark in the heart of Osaka’s Yao neighborhood, Tsutenkaku Tower is an iconic symbol of the city that offers fantastic views and plenty of entertainment.
What to see or do: Take the elevator up to the observation deck on the fifth floor for panoramic views of Osaka, or head up to the sixth floor for a bird’s-eye view of the tower itself.
The fourth floor is home to the “Billiken Shrine,” a popular spot for good luck, and the third floor features an exhibition on the history of the tower.
Don’t miss: In the basement, you’ll find the kushikatsu (“skewered and deep-fried”) stalls of Janjan Yokocho, a lively alleyway of over 20 shops with a retro atmosphere.
This is a great place to try kushikatsu, a famous Osaka specialty.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Tsutenkaku is at dusk when the tower lights up.
Also, be sure to take in the tower’s trademark neon sign, which features the tower’s name (meaning “tower reaching heaven”) in bright letters.
Finally, if you’re not a fan of heights, you might want to skip the elevator ride to the top!