Getting around Osaka

Osaka City is largely divided into two areas: the Umeda area, called "Kita," and the Namba/Tennoji area, known as "Minami." Depending upon your destination, you can travel through the city using the subway, which goes all throughout the city, the JR Osaka Loop Line, which circles the central districts, and other private railways that connect in various parts of the city.Osaka is an "aqua metropolis." You can enjoy a truly Osakan experience by traveling by water on a water bus or a cruise instead of using the roads, trains, or subway. You're sure to see a different side of the city. Sightseeing taxis are also available. Osaka is a city with advanced transit, allowing you to enjoy your visit while travelling conveniently.

CRUISES

Be sure to confirm operating days and status.

FAMILY CARS/ RENTAL CARS

The main road for driving within Osaka City is the Hanshin Expressway. The Loop Line, which surrounds the central districts, provides access in all directions. Traffic is heavy within the city, so use caution when driving. Also, while there are many city parking lots from Umeda to Namba, they are often full on weekends and holidays.

Parking

Rental Cars

Toyota Rent-A-Car

TAXIS

See here for information on sightseeing taxis.

OSAKA BIKE RENTALS

Predominantly flat, very well organised, and populated by outrageously considerate locals who are more than used to sharing space with their two-wheeled companions, Osaka is Japan's true bike city. Bicycles are indeed so ubiquitous that it's impossible to spend a day in town without seeing them glide down the sidewalk carrying well-dressed business men, women with babies and surprisingly agile elderly.If seeing the locals traverse their city on two wheels makes you want to hop off the train and on a bike, then it's time for you to join the ranks of Osaka's cyclists. To score your ride, head to an English-speaking bike rental service, such as Cycle Osaka . Not only will they hook you up with a suitable bike, they will also help you with cycle tours so you can explore the city your way. Another option would be HUBchari , where bicycles are shared at various stations throughout the city. Alternatively, Osaka's new public bike rental service offers smaller city bikes for inner city touring. Information on this scheme can be found at http://umegle-chari.minaport.jp (Japanese only). Then... just saddle up, plan your route, and get involved!Over at Grand Front Osaka, the newest landmark building in Osaka’s Kita, you can rent a bicycle at Umegle Rental Cycle. You'll be able to return your cycle anytime within the 24 hour period, giving you plenty of time to see the city in two-wheeled fashion. HUBchari and COIDECO are two examples of a new type of "community cycle" bicycle rental service. There are a number of rental "ports" located around the city, and you don’t have to return your bicycle to the same port you borrowed it from. Osaka's a great city to explore this way, and it’s sure to make you appreciate cycling all the more. Make sure to check Osaka's urban cycling routes before you arrive.

RAILROAD NETWORK IN KANSAI AREA

Here are the information about railroad network around Osaka. Please click at the train's name under the railroad map below where you will get information about each line's main stations, required time and fee.