From historical landmarks to vibrant cityscapes and thrilling attractions, Osaka and the surrounding Kansai region has it all! In this second installment, we’re uncovering even more must-visit gems in Osaka and Kyoto that didn’t make it into our January article. Plus, discover tips for stress-free travel, including cashless touch payment services and seamless routes from the airport to your destination.
Relax and Recharge in the Airport Lounge Upon Arrival
Touch down in Japan and treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in an airport lounge before diving into your adventure! Did you know some airport lounges in Japan cater not only to those jetting off, but to arriving passengers too*? Enjoy a variety of perks, like complimentary beverages and more. Plus, if you’re a JCB Gold member or higher, you can access these lounges for free - just show your same-day boarding pass stub and JCB card upon entry. Start your vacation refreshed and ready to explore after a long and tiring flight!
*At some airports, lounges are only available for departures.
JCB Member Special Offers
Click here for details：https://www.global.jcb/en/consumers/platinum/airport-lounge/index.html#ancLounge
Top Places to Visit Around Osaka and How to Get There from the Airport
【Osaka】Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: One of the World's Largest Aquariums
Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world, offering visitors an immersive journey through the Pacific Ocean. The aquarium features several tanks that recreate different regions of the Pacific Rim, showcasing a fascinating variety of marine, coastal, mountain stream, and waterside creatures. With around 620 species and 30,000 exhibits, there's so much to discover.
One of the highlights is the massive 'Pacific Ocean' tank, spanning from the 6th floor to the 4th floor, where you can marvel at the majestic whale shark - the largest fish in the world - gliding gracefully through the water. This tank is also home to about 50 other species, including the spinetail mobula, or Japanese mobula ray.
Other must-sees include the Aqua Gate, a tunnel-shaped tank that lets you view marine life from below, and a cozy cafe* where you can relax while enjoying views of the 'Japan Deeps' tank. A visit to Kaiyukan promises to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.
*Please note: Only select seats in the cafe offer views of the tank.
【Recommended Route from the Airport】How to Travel Using Contactless Payment
■ From Kansai International Airport
Kansai International Airport ➡ (Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t) ➡ Nankai Namba Station/Namba Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line) ➡ Hoｍmachi Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Chuo Line) ➡ Osakako Station
*JCB contactless payment is all that's needed to board the airport express train.
Additionally, by purchasing a Web Express ticket, passengers may board the Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t without the need to exchange tickets at the airport.
■ From Osaka International Airport
Osaka International Airport ➡ (Osaka Monorail) ➡ Hotarugaike Station ➡ (Hankyu Takarazuka Line) ➡ Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station/Umeda Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line) ➡ Hoｍmachi Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Chuo Line) ➡ Osakako Station
【Osaka】Osaka Prefectural Government Sakishima Building Observatory (Cosmo Tower Observatory): Panoramic Views of the City of Osaka
At 252 meters above the ground, the Cosmo Tower Observation Deck offers breathtaking views of Osaka Bay from one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers. The journey to the top is an experience in itself - with a see-through elevator zipping you to the 52nd floor, followed by a futuristic escalator that whisks you up to the 55th floor.
Once you're there, enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka, Kobe, and even the majestic Mount Rokko in the distance. When the sun sets, the view transforms into one of Japan's "100 Best Night Views" - perfect for a romantic evening beneath the sparkling city lights. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!
【Recommended Route from the Airport and Namba Station】How to Travel Using Contactless Payment
■ From Kansai International Airport
Kansai International Airport ➡ (Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t) ➡ Nankai Namba Station/Namba Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line) ➡ Hoｍmachi Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Chuo Line) ➡ Cosmosquare Station
*JCB contactless payment is all that's needed to board the airport express train.
Additionally, by purchasing a Web Express ticket, passengers may board the Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t without the need to exchange tickets at the airport.
■ From Osaka International Airport
Osaka International Airport ➡ (Osaka Monorail) ➡ Hotarugaike Station ➡ (Hankyu Takarazuka Line) ➡ Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station/Umeda Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line) ➡ Hoｍmachi Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Chuo Line) ➡ Cosmosquare Station
■ From Namba Station
Namba Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line) ➡ Hoｍmachi Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Chuo Line) ➡ Cosmosquare Station
Since you're already in Osaka, why not make the most of it and take a quick trip to Kyoto?
After exploring Osaka, why not seize the chance to visit Kyoto? We highly recommend the Kawaramachi area, which is packed with plenty of incredible sightseeing spots!
【Kyoto】Yasaka Shrine: A Place of Prayer for the Eradication of Plague and Disease
Nestled in the picturesque Higashiyama district of Kyoto, the graceful Yasaka Shrine is devoted to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the deity revered for protecting against misfortune. The shrine is also home to a variety of other gods, including those of matchmaking and beauty, offering a diverse collection of charms for protection, love, good fortune, and beauty. Yasaka Shrine is also renowned for hosting the Gion Festival, one of Japan's three major festivals, celebrated since 869.
【Kyoto】Gion Shirakawa Canal, Tatsumi-bashi Bridge: Immerse Yourself in a Quintessential Kyoto Atmosphere
Stroll through the charming streets around Tatsumi-bashi Bridge on the Gion Shirakawa Canal, where red-lattice townhouses line the stone-paved paths - an iconic scene of Kyoto’s timeless beauty. This area is renowned for its cherry blossoms, with somei-yoshino, mountain, and weeping cherry trees in full bloom, adding a splash of color to the streets. As night falls, the blossoms are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere where the soft glow brings out the subtle elegance of the flowers, offering a different kind of beauty than during the day.
【Kyoto】Kamo River Noryo-Yuka: A Summer Tradition in Kyoto
Experience a true Kyoto summer tradition with 'Noryo-yuka' - raised wooden platforms set along the riverbanks or above the water, offering a perfect spot to enjoy a meal while feeling the refreshing riverside breeze. The historic 'Kamo River Noryo-yuka,' one of the four Noryo-yuka spots in Kyoto, is home to a variety of charming eateries, from traditional ryotei to cozy bars. Why not dine in this serene and picturesque setting?
*The event takes place annually from May 1st to around September 30th (dates may vary by venue).
【Recommended Route from the Airport】How to Travel Using Contactless Payment
Kansai International Airport ➡ (Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t) ➡ Tengachaya Station ➡ (Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line) ➡ Awaji Station ➡ (Hankyu Kyoto Line) ➡ Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station (Kawaramachi, Gion, Yasaka Shrine area)
*JCB contactless payment is all that's needed to board the airport express train.
Additionally, by purchasing a Web Express ticket, passengers may board the Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t without the need to exchange tickets at the airport.
Travel by train using your JCB Contactless card. Available for visitors to Japan.
The JCB Contactless card can now be used not only at convenience stores and shops, but also on trains, buses, and other modes of transportation. Simply hold your JCB contactless-enabled credit card or smartphone wallet over the reader at the train ticket gate or bus contactless payment reader to easily pass through and board. This removes the need to purchase tickets in advance at a machine or top up an IC card, making travel smoother and eliminating the stress of having to carry cash for tickets.
How to Guide
1. Have a card with a contactless payment symbol or a smartphone with the card set up ready.
2. When boarding or alighting from a train, simply hold your card over the contactless terminals installed at each public transportation facility.
3. Boarding and alighting history can be easily checked from your computer or smartphone.
*Q-move is a service operated by QUADRAC Corporation. Please contact QUADRAC Corporation for operating instructions.
URL：https://www.q-move.jp/Plum/login?lang=en
*Please refer to the following contactless payment transportation map for available transportation options that support contactless payment.
Click here for other special offers for JCB members
- Gain Access to JCB Exclusive Lane and Get Discount Tickets!
For more information:：https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/campaign/detail/ktic/75916/ - OSAKA - Comfortable Tourist Base in NAMBA, Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka
For more information:：https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/campaign/detail/frnankai/70710/ - JCB ×Kintetsu Department Store Main Store Abeno Harukas Campaign
For more information:：https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/campaign/detail/kintetsu/56847/ - KYOTO - Luxury Hotel Special Offers by FAUCHON L'Hotel Kyoto
For more information:：https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/campaign/detail/wbc/68419/
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