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7 Amusement Parks Around Osaka: USJ, Legoland, Nijigen no Mori, and More

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Looking for an amusement park for a fun day out with friends and family near Osaka? We introduce 7 fun-filled amusement parks in and around Osaka, from Universal Studios Japan and Legoland Discovery Center to Nijigen no Mori and the HEP 5 Ferris Wheel.

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Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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Whether it’s delicious culinary experiences, energetic nightlife, or storied traditional culture, Osaka is filled with amazing experiences for any traveler.

The region is also home to some of the most exciting amusement parks. The thrill-seeker, character super fan, or just a traveler looking for a good time - all will find some excitement and fun at the following seven locations!

7 Major Amusement Parks in Osaka

1. Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
2. HEP 5 Ferris Wheel
3. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka
4. Hirakata Park
5. Kansai Cycle Sports Center
6. teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
7. Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island

1. Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

7 Fun-filled Amusement Parks around Osaka

Picture courtesy of Klook
Thrill seekers, cosplayers, and lovers of pop culture draw near! Undoubtedly one of the best ways for someone like this to spend their day (or two) is at Universal Studios Japan (USJ).

The main theme park attraction within the Osaka area, it is a jam-packed 108 acres of wall-to-wall fun and attractions for the whole family.

Whether you’re whisked off to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or defying gravity on the dino-themed Jurassic Park rides, the park is bound to have something you’ll enjoy.

Hotels near Universal Studios Japan

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2. HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel in Umeda

7 Fun-filled Amusement Parks around Osaka

Picture by Pixta
The lively district of Umeda is known as a transportation hub, restaurant haven, and retail delight. However, no matter where you end up an icon looms large over this lively district: the vibrant HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel.

From the height of the 75-meter-tall wheel, you’ll get a picturesque view of the city below. The cityscape is an astonishing 106 meters below your gondola and you and your companions can take in the view day or night from atop this lofty point!

After taking in the view while listening to your favorite music, you can enjoy all that the HEP FIVE complex has to offer beneath the Ferris Wheel. With a plethora of retail and dining options at your fingertips, you’re certain to have a memorable time!

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3. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka

7 Fun-filled Amusement Parks around Osaka

Picture courtesy of Klook

The Legoland Discovery Center is a fantastic family outing for both kids and those young at heart.

Lego is a global phenomenon that has inspired individuals to build and create, offering adults a chance to find some peaceful me-time in recent years.

At the Discovery Center, you can marvel at an entire miniature replica of Osaka built entirely from Lego bricks and partake in building your own racers to test on their specially designed course.

Lastly, relax and immerse yourself in the 4D cinematic experiences they offer, promising great fun for children of all ages!

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4. Hirakata Park

7 Fun-filled Amusement Parks around Osaka

Picture courtesy of Klook
In the suburbs of Osaka lies a family-friendly amusement park certain to delight all members of your travel party!

Hirakata Park boasts over 30 attractions suitable for everyone's enjoyment. Consider experiencing the Elf, a classic rollercoaster ride that evokes the nostalgia of old-school rollercoasters.

Alternatively, perhaps you'd fancy a leisurely ride on the 80-meter Ferris Wheel, offering a bird's-eye view of the park's many attractions.

The park also features several seasonal attractions for visitors to enjoy. During the summer, guests can cool off in the refreshing pool, while in winter, they can partake in seasonal sports like skiing!

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5. Kansai Cycle Sports Center

7 Fun-filled Amusement Parks around Osaka

Picture courtesy of Klook
Breathe in the fresh air, explore a beautiful expansive outdoor center, and seize the opportunity to ride some extraordinary bicycles found nowhere else.

The Kansai Cycle Sports Center caters to the active traveler seeking to invigorate themselves and relish the joy that accompanies physical activity.

Featuring over 800 distinctive bicycles unavailable on typical Japanese roads, the Center offers tri-wheeled bicycles enabling riders to stand at the back, and heart-shaped tandem bicycles ideally suited for couples.

Moreover, the Center hosts pedal-powered theme park rides that whisk you along thrilling tracks throughout the 10,000-square-meter park or allow you to glide above the lush greenery of the national park environs!

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6. teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka

7 Fun-filled Amusement Parks around Osaka

Picture courtesy of Klook
Located in the vibrant urban core of Osaka, the Nagai Botanical Gardens have enchanted visitors and locals alike since 1974. Thanks to the artistic prowess of teamLab, an evening visit to the park becomes a truly unforgettable experience.

Amidst the darkened garden, imposing geometric structures come alive with stunning shapes and swirling whirlpools projected onto them. The artists aim to showcase the interplay between life energies diffusing through space and the harmonious dance of nature within it.

Additionally, numerous smaller exhibits are scattered throughout the botanical gardens, featuring many crowd-pleasing elements from similar teamLab installations.

This garden adventure is genuinely remarkable and comes at a modest price of approximately 13 US dollars, offering exceptional value for money!

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7. Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island

7 Amusement Parks Around Osaka: USJ, Legoland, Nijigen no Mori, and More

Picture courtesy of the Hyogo Tourism Bureau
Immerse yourself in a world that seamlessly transitions from the comic book realms of Naruto and Demon Slayer to the Kaiju-filled movies of Godzilla at Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island, where visitors can wander through a variety of themed areas at their own pace.

A visit to Nijigen offers the chance to explore a village inspired by the popular ninja anime Naruto or embark on a Dragon Quest Island adventure!

7 Fun-filled Amusement Parks around Osaka

Picture courtesy of Klook

Following your ninja endeavors, why not challenge yourself to assist Japan in combating the colossal monster menace of Godzilla? Witness actors reenacting the chaos and adrenaline-pumping action of a Godzilla attack, culminating in a thrilling zip line experience straight into the massive creature's radioactive maw!

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Have a Great Time at Osaka's Amusement Parks

The vicinity surrounding Osaka abounds with a myriad of amusement parks waiting to be explored. Whether you're an enthusiast of Japan's pop culture or seeking adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, this region caters to your every desire.

Consider adding a theme park to your roster of must-visit destinations while in Osaka. With the convenience of pre-booking tickets through Klook, integrating this experience into your itinerary before embarking on your journey has never been simpler!

Many of the attractions featured above, such as LEGOLAND Discovery Center or the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, are covered by the one-day or two-day Osaka Amazing Pass! Do consider using this pass if you plan to visit several attractions in Osaka.

Main image courtesy of PR Times

Written by

Salvo

Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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