Osaka in 2025: Why Your Greatest Japan Adventure Begins Behind the Wheel

With a unique background as a train conductor for Kintetsu Railway—a major Japanese rail company—and years of road-tripping experience in his 20s, this writer shares insights to help international visitors discover the real charm of Japan. Originally from Nara and now based in Osaka, he runs a rental car business offering manual-transmission and custom Japanese cars. From early morning rentals to tailored drive plans, he brings a playful spirit to travel. Having explored scenic routes across Japan, especially in Shikoku and Nagano, he delivers authentic, experience-based content as a true expert in tourism and driving.

Beyond the Bullet Train – An Insider's Guide to Unlocking the Real Osaka

Welcome to Osaka, the vibrant, beating heart of the Kansai region. For years, I watched this city and its surroundings from the window of a Kintetsu express train, learning its rhythms, its shortcuts, and its secrets. Japan's railway system is a marvel of engineering, a symbol of our nation's efficiency, and I was proud to be a part of it. But I also learned its limits. The train tracks, as brilliant as they are, can only show you one version of Japan—the one that exists between major stations. The real magic, the unexpected discoveries, the freedom to truly explore? That, I discovered, lies on the open road.

This guide is born from that dual perspective: the discipline of the railway and the spirit of the road trip. It’s designed for the 2025 traveler who wants more than just a checklist of famous sights. With the world's attention turning to Osaka for Expo 2025, the city will be more alive and crowded than ever. While this brings an incredible energy, it also means that navigating the city and its surroundings will require a smarter approach. This is not just a guide to what to see in Osaka; it's a new philosophy for experiencing Japan. It's an invitation to trade the rigid timetable of the train for the boundless possibility of the steering wheel, to transform your trip from a tour into an adventure, and to discover a side of Japan that most visitors will never see.  

Part 1: Osaka's Electric Heartbeat: More Than Just a Checklist

Before we hit the road, it's essential to understand the city at the center of our journey. Osaka is a sensory explosion, a city of dazzling lights, incredible food, and deep history. The iconic landmarks are famous for a reason, and they form the essential foundation of any visit. But seeing them like a local, with an insider's knowledge, makes all the difference.

The Unmissable Icons (with a Twist)

• Dotonbori: The Neon Soul of the City When night falls, Dotonbori (道頓堀) becomes the electric heart of Osaka. It’s a chaotic, wonderful assault on the senses, with giant, mechanized sea creatures clinging to restaurant facades and the iconic Glico Running Man sign illuminating the canal below. This is the place to dive headfirst into Osaka's reputation as   kuidaore (食い倒れ), or "eat till you drop." Grab some takoyaki (たこ焼き, octopus balls) or okonomiyaki (お好み焼き, savory pancake) from a street vendor and just soak it all in from the Ebisu-bashi Bridge. But here’s the insider tip: just a few steps from the neon glare lies Hozenji Yokocho (法善寺横丁), a narrow, stone-paved alleyway that feels like a forgotten piece of the Edo Period. Centered around the moss-covered Mizukake Fudo statue at Hozenji Temple, this quiet lane offers a moment of serene contrast, reminding you that even in Osaka's most futuristic-looking district, history is always just around the corner.  
• Osaka Castle: A Symbol of Power and Resilience The magnificent Osaka Castle (大阪城) is the city's most recognizable landmark, a symbol of the unification of Japan under Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the 16th century. Its massive stone walls and deep moats are a testament to samurai-era engineering. While the main tower is a modern reconstruction housing a museum, the surrounding park is a beautiful destination in itself, especially during the cherry blossom season in April. Most tourists follow the main path straight to the tower. For a more memorable experience, seek out the hidden corners. The Nishinomaru Garden offers stunning, less-crowded views of the castle, especially at sunset. Another fantastic, often-missed photo opportunity is from the rooftop of the Miraiza building, a former military headquarters just beside the castle grounds. It’s worth noting that while the exterior and grounds are breathtaking, some visitors find the modernized museum interior of the castle underwhelming; the real power of this site is in its scale and presence within the city.  
• Shinsekai: A Retro Trip into Another Era For a taste of something completely different, head to Shinsekai (新世界), which translates to "New World." Ironically, this district is a funky, retro time capsule of post-war, Showa-era Japan. Dominated by the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower (通天閣), which was modeled after the Eiffel Tower, Shinsekai has a gritty, nostalgic charm that feels worlds away from the polished shopping districts. The real soul of Shinsekai is found in its narrow arcades like Jan-Jan Yokocho, which are filled with tiny, standing-only bars and countless restaurants specializing in   kushikatsu (串カツ), Osaka's famous deep-fried skewers. This isn't just a place to see; it's a place to experience the unvarnished, lively spirit of old Osaka.  

The Emerging Reality: Navigating the Crowds

These incredible sights are, understandably, on every traveler's list. However, Japan is currently experiencing an unprecedented tourism boom. In 2024, the country saw a record-breaking 36.9 million international visitors, a massive increase from previous years, and 2025 is expected to be even busier. This has led to a phenomenon known as "overtourism," and its effects are being felt most acutely in popular hubs like Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo.  

The once-orderly public transportation systems are now under immense strain. City buses in neighboring Kyoto are often too packed for locals to even board during peak seasons. In Osaka, the main Midosuji subway line, which connects key areas like Umeda, Namba, and Tennoji, becomes incredibly congested during rush hour, making travel uncomfortable, especially with luggage. The sheer number of people creates bottlenecks at popular attractions, on trains, and in the streets, affecting the quality of the experience for both tourists and residents. For the 2025 traveler, the primary challenge won't be finding amazing things to do, but rather overcoming the logistical hurdles to enjoy them in a relaxed and meaningful way. Being tied to a rigid train schedule, wrestling with large suitcases on crowded platforms, and spending precious vacation time waiting in lines is the unfortunate reality for many. This friction point is where a new approach to travel becomes not just a luxury, but a necessity.  

Part 2: The Freedom of the Open Road: Why Your Best Memories Lie Beyond the Train Tracks

Japan's train network, particularly the Shinkansen (新幹線, bullet train), is legendary. For traveling the "Golden Route"—the well-trodden path between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—it is undeniably efficient. However, this efficiency comes with a trade-off: it funnels every traveler along the exact same corridors, contributing to the very congestion we seek to avoid. Furthermore, the moment your itinerary ventures beyond major city centers, the train's utility diminishes dramatically.  

The Train vs. Car Dilemma: A Local's Perspective

From my years working on the railway, I know that trains are designed for mass transit between fixed points. They are not designed for exploration. If you want to visit the serene temples of Koyasan, the ancient burial mounds of Asuka, or the dramatic coastlines of the Kii Peninsula, public transport becomes a complex puzzle of infrequent local trains and confusing bus schedules—if it exists at all. This is where the car becomes transformative.  

Renting a car in Japan grants you the ultimate travel luxury: freedom. Freedom from timetables, allowing you to chase a sunset on a whim or linger longer at a place that captivates you. Freedom of access, opening up rural landscapes, secluded natural wonders, and charming small towns that are simply out of reach for most tourists. For families with children or groups traveling together, a car is often more economical and infinitely more convenient than juggling multiple train tickets and hauling luggage through crowded stations. It turns the journey itself into part of the adventure, not just a means of getting from A to B.  

Introducing Your Key to Kansai: Deep Seek Japan

Recognizing this gap between the standard tourist experience and the potential for true exploration, I founded Deep Seek Japan. My goal was to create more than just a car rental company; I wanted to offer a gateway to the kind of authentic, flexible travel that I fell in love with during my own road trips across the country. We are based right in Osaka, making it the perfect launchpad for your adventures. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Unparalleled Expertise: My career as a Kintetsu train conductor gave me an intimate, professional understanding of the entire Kansai region's geography, from its sprawling cities to its hidden valleys. I don't just give you a car; I provide curated drive plans and insider recommendations based on years of firsthand experience. I can create a custom Google Map route for you, filled with scenic spots and local eateries that you won't find in any guidebook.
• The JDM Experience: For many visitors, Japanese cars are an attraction in themselves. We specialize in vehicles that are part of Japan's vibrant car culture, including manual-transmission sports cars made famous by movies like The Fast and the Furious. Our cars, some lightly customized with details like carbon sheets, turn every drive into a thrilling experience. This isn't just transportation; it's about fulfilling the dream of driving an iconic Japanese machine on its home turf.  
• Unmatched Flexibility: Standard rental agencies operate on rigid 10 am to 7 pm schedules. We understand that your adventure doesn't keep office hours. That's why we offer optional early-morning pickups (e.g., 7 am) and late-night returns. This simple service can add half a day or more to your itinerary, allowing you to catch a sunrise from a mountain peak or enjoy a late dinner without rushing back.
• Practical, Thoughtful Perks: We've thought through the small details that make a big difference. Some of our cars are equipped with Paint Protection Film (PPF) on the bonnet, so you can enjoy spirited drives on scenic mountain roads without worrying about stone chips (windshields excluded). Our central Osaka location ensures you're not wasting time traveling to a remote rental office. We are here to make your journey seamless and worry-free.

The choice is no longer simply between a train or a car. It's between a pre-packaged tour and a personalized expedition. While a standard rental car solves the logistical problem of getting around, our service aims to transform the journey itself. It's about empowering you to become the architect of your own unique Japan story, with the perfect vehicle and an expert local guide to help you along the way.

Part 3: Epic Day Trips & Scenic Drives: Your Kansai Adventure Starts Here

With Osaka as your base and a set of keys in your hand, the entire Kansai region unfolds into a playground of discovery. Here are three distinct itineraries, each offering an experience that is profoundly enhanced—or only truly possible—by car.

Itinerary 1: The Sacred Mountain Drive – A Spiritual Escape to Koyasan

Mount Koya (高野山, Kōyasan) is the sacred center of Shingon Buddhism, a serene and mystical temple town nestled high in the mountains of the Kii Peninsula. Reaching this UNESCO World Heritage site is a pilgrimage in itself, but the journey by car offers a vastly different and more personal experience.

• The Challenge by Train: The public transport route from Osaka is a multi-stage affair. It begins with a Nankai Railway train from Namba Station to Gokurakubashi Station at the base of the mountain. From there, you must transfer to a steep cable car for the ascent, and finally, take a local bus from the top station into the town center. While scenic, this journey is time-consuming, involves multiple transfers with luggage, and locks you into a fixed schedule.  
• The Freedom by Car: The drive to Koyasan is an adventure. The roads wind gracefully through dense cedar forests, climbing higher with each turn and offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. You have the freedom to stop at any viewpoint that catches your eye, to breathe in the crisp mountain air, and to arrive at your own pace. Once in Koyasan, having a car is a huge advantage. There is ample free parking near the entrance to the incredible Okunoin Cemetery, allowing you to explore this vast, atmospheric site without being tied to the infrequent local bus schedule.  
• Must-Sees in Koyasan: Your journey should include a walk through Okunoin (奥之院), Japan's largest cemetery, where ancient tombstones and towering trees create an ethereal atmosphere. Visit Kongobu-ji Temple (金剛峯寺), the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, and explore the magnificent Garan (壇上伽藍) temple complex, with its iconic Konpon Daito Pagoda.  

Itinerary 2: Journey to Japan's Ancient Soul – Nara Park & the Asuka Mysteries

Nara was Japan's first permanent capital, and it remains a city of immense historical and cultural importance. While the main attractions are well-known, a car allows you to venture beyond the crowds and journey back to the very cradle of Japanese civilization.

• The Classic Stop: The day begins in Nara Park (奈良公園), famous for its hundreds of free-roaming, bowing sika deer. Here you'll find the awe-inspiring   Todai-ji Temple (東大寺), which houses the 15-meter-tall Great Buddha (Daibutsu), and the beautiful Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社), with its thousands of bronze and stone lanterns. This part of the trip is easily accessible and a must-do for any visitor.  
• The Deep Dive (Enabled by Car): Just a short drive south of the bustling park lies Asuka Village (明日香村), a tranquil rural landscape that served as Japan's political and artistic center in the 6th and 7th centuries. This region is where Japanese history truly begins, but its sites are spread out across rice paddies and hills, making it very difficult to explore efficiently without a car. With a vehicle, you can seamlessly connect the dots between its mysterious stone structures. Marvel at the   Ishibutai Kofun (石舞台古墳), the exposed burial chamber of a 7th-century nobleman, and visit Asuka-dera (飛鳥寺), considered Japan's first true Buddhist temple. Driving through the picturesque   Inabuchi Terraced Rice Fields completes a day that bridges the grandeur of Nara's temples with the quiet, profound history of Asuka.  

Itinerary 3: For the Driving Enthusiast – Kansai's Most Thrilling Roads

For those who believe the journey is the destination, the Kansai region offers some of Japan's most spectacular driving roads. These routes are not just ways to get somewhere; they are experiences in themselves, perfectly suited for a responsive, manual-transmission sports car.

• Mount Rokko (Kobe): A short drive from Osaka, the Omote Rokko Driveway is a legendary route for local car enthusiasts. This dynamic road climbs the southern slope of Mount Rokko with a series of tight hairpin turns and steep drops, rewarding the driver with constantly changing scenery and breathtaking panoramic views over the city of Kobe and Osaka Bay.  
• Koya-Ryujin Skyline (Wakayama): Connecting Koyasan with the Ryujin Onsen area, this 42.7-kilometer scenic parkway is truly a "road in the sky". It runs along the ridge of the Kii Mountains at an altitude of over 1,000 meters, offering magnificent, unbroken views of the surrounding peaks. It is consistently ranked as one of Japan's top 100 scenic roads and is particularly stunning during the autumn foliage season from late October.  
• Pearl Road & Ise-Shima Skyline (Mie): For coastal beauty, nothing beats the drive through the Ise-Shima National Park. The Ise-Shima Skyline is a 16.3-kilometer toll road that climbs Mount Asama, offering incredible vistas of Ise Bay. It connects seamlessly with the free   Pearl Road, a 23.8-kilometer route that weaves along the intricate rias coastline between Toba and Shima. With numerous observatories and pull-offs, this drive is a feast for the eyes, combining the thrill of a winding road with the serene beauty of Japan's coast.  

These itineraries showcase how a car can fundamentally change the narrative of your trip. It's no longer about simply visiting a place; it's about crafting a journey. You can choose to be a spiritual pilgrim, a historical detective, or a driving purist. The car becomes the tool that allows you to live out that story, transforming a simple vacation into a personal epic.

Part 4: The Ultimate Road Trip: A 7-Day Kansai & Shikoku Grand Tour

For the truly adventurous traveler, a car unlocks the possibility of a grand tour, extending far beyond the usual boundaries of a Kansai trip. The island of Shikoku, the smallest of Japan's four main islands, is a land of rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and dramatic coastlines. It remains one of Japan's most rewarding and least-visited regions, largely because its treasures are spread out and best accessed by road. An Osaka-based car rental is your perfect launchpad for this unforgettable expedition.  

Here is a sample 7-day itinerary that combines the best of Kansai's periphery with a deep dive into Shikoku's natural beauty:

• Day 1: Osaka to Tokushima - Crossing the Inland Sea Pick up your car in Osaka and begin your journey west. The first highlight is driving across the magnificent Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, one of the world's longest suspension bridges, onto Awaji Island. After exploring the island, cross the Ōnaruto Bridge into Tokushima Prefecture. Time your arrival to witness the powerful Naruto whirlpools, a stunning natural phenomenon. Spend the night in Tokushima City.
• Day 2: The Pacific Coast to Kochi Drive south along Shikoku's beautiful and rugged Pacific coastline. This is a classic scenic drive with countless opportunities to stop at quiet beaches and small fishing villages. Your destination is Kochi Prefecture, known for its spirited culture and delicious food. End your day at the lively Hirome Market in Kochi City, where you can sample local delicacies like katsuo no tataki (seared bonito) alongside local diners.  
• Day 3: The Untamed River and into Ehime Head inland to experience the Shimanto River, famously known as Japan's last free-flowing river due to its lack of large-scale dams. The area is perfect for a scenic drive, with its iconic   chinkabashi (submersible bridges) that have no side rails. From there, drive northwest towards Matsuyama, the largest city in Ehime Prefecture.
• Day 4: Castle Views and Ancient Springs in Matsuyama Spend the day exploring Matsuyama. Visit Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan's twelve original surviving castles, perched on a hill overlooking the city. In the afternoon, relax and rejuvenate at   Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot springs, whose main building served as an inspiration for the bathhouse in the animated film Spirited Away.  
• Day 5: Island Hopping by Car - The Shimanami Kaido Embark on one of Japan's most spectacular drives: the Shimanami Kaido. This 60-kilometer expressway connects Shikoku back to the main island of Honshu via a series of six small islands and stunning bridges. While famous as a cycling route, driving it is equally breathtaking, with numerous parks and observation points on each island offering incredible views of the Seto Inland Sea.
• Day 6: Himeji Castle and the Return to Kansai After crossing back to Honshu, make a stop in Himeji to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its brilliant white exterior has earned it the nickname "White Heron Castle". It is widely considered Japan's most beautiful and best-preserved feudal castle. From Himeji, it's a straightforward drive back towards the Osaka/Kobe area.  
• Day 7: A Final Taste of Kansai & Departure Depending on your flight schedule, spend your last day exploring Kobe's cosmopolitan port area or doing some last-minute shopping in Osaka before returning your car. This grand tour offers a depth and breadth of experience—from sacred mountains to pristine rivers, feudal castles to modern marvels of engineering—that would be impossible to replicate using any other mode of transport. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, a campervan rental can provide the ultimate freedom, combining transport and accommodation into one seamless adventure.  

Part 5: Your 2025 Osaka Navigator: A Practical Guide for the International Driver

Feeling inspired? That's the first step. The next is feeling confident. Driving in a foreign country can seem daunting, but with a little preparation, it's a straightforward and incredibly rewarding experience. This section is your practical toolkit for hitting the road in Japan.

Conquering Expo 2025

The World Expo, held on the artificial island of Yumeshima from April 13 to October 13, 2025, will be a major highlight of any trip to Osaka.  

• The Car Advantage: With massive crowds expected, relying on public transport to and from the venue could be time-consuming and stressful. Having a car provides a private "home base" for the day. You can store jackets, souvenirs, or a change of clothes securely, and you have the flexibility to leave the island for a more relaxed meal at a local restaurant instead of queuing at the on-site food courts.
• Pro Tips: Download the official "EXPO 2025 Visitors" app before you go. It will be essential for making reservations for popular pavilions and navigating the site map. Plan to visit on a weekday if possible, as weekends will be extremely crowded.  

Driving in Japan with Confidence: A Crash Course

• Licensing—The Most Important Step: To drive in Japan, you cannot use your standard domestic license alone. You will need one of the following:
  1. An International Driving Permit (IDP): This must be based on the 1949 Geneva Convention. IDPs are issued by your home country's national automobile association (like AAA in the USA) and must be obtained before you arrive in Japan. The IDP is valid for one year from entry.  
  2. An Official Japanese Translation: Drivers from certain countries—including Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan—do not use the 1949 IDP. Instead, you must carry your original license along with an official Japanese translation. This translation can be obtained from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or authorized services.  
• Key Rules of the Road:
  • Drive on the Left: This is the most fundamental rule. The driver's seat is on the right.  
  • No Turn on Red: Unlike in some countries, turning at a red light is strictly prohibited unless there is a specific green arrow signal.  
  • Mandatory Stop at Railway Crossings: You must come to a complete stop before every railway crossing, look both ways, and listen before proceeding. This rule is strictly enforced.  
  • Speed Limits: General speed limits are typically 40 km/h in urban areas, 50-60 km/h on other roads, and 80-100 km/h on expressways. Always obey the posted signs.  
  • Zero Tolerance for Alcohol: Japan's blood alcohol limit for driving is effectively zero. Do not drink any alcohol if you plan to drive.  
• Understanding Japanese Road Signs: While many signs use international symbols, a few key ones are unique to Japan. Familiarizing yourself with them is crucial for safety and confidence.

Sign Image (Description)	Japanese Name (Romaji)	Meaning & Key Action
Red, inverted triangle with 「止まれ」	Tomare (止まれ)	STOP. This is the most important sign. It is not octagonal. You must come to a complete stop behind the line.
White, inverted triangle with red border and 「徐行」	Jokō (徐行)	SLOW DOWN. Proceed slowly enough that you can stop immediately if necessary.
Red circle with a white horizontal bar	Shinnyū Kinshi (進入禁止)	DO NOT ENTER. This sign marks the exit of a one-way street or a restricted area.
Blue rectangle with a white arrow	Ippō Tsūkō (一方通行)	ONE WAY. Traffic proceeds only in the direction of the arrow.
Yellow diamond with a train symbol	Fumikiri Ari (踏切あり)	RAILWAY CROSSING AHEAD. Prepare to make a mandatory full stop before the tracks.
Blue circle with red border and red slash	Chūsha Kinshi (駐車禁止)	NO PARKING. You may stop briefly for pick-up/drop-off, but you cannot leave the vehicle.
Blue circle with red border and red 'X'	Chūteisha Kinshi (駐停車禁止)	NO STOPPING OR PARKING. You may not stop here for any reason, even briefly.

• Tolls & ETC Cards: Most expressways in Japan are toll roads. While you can pay with cash or credit card at the green "一般" (ippan, general) gates, the easiest method is using an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) card. Many rental companies, including ours, offer ETC card rentals for tourists for a small fee. You simply insert the card into the car's ETC reader and drive slowly through the purple "ETC" gates. Tolls are automatically recorded, and you settle the total bill when you return the car. This saves time and often provides access to weekday and holiday discounts.  
• Parking in Japan: Finding parking, especially in cities, requires some knowledge. Street parking is rare and heavily restricted.
  • Coin-Operated Lots: These are the most common. You park in a numbered space, and after a few minutes, a barrier (flap) will rise from the ground behind your wheels. To leave, you go to a central payment machine, enter your space number, pay the fee, and the barrier will lower.  
  • Gated Lots: Similar to those worldwide, you take a ticket on entry and pay at a machine before exiting.  
  • Parking Meters: Found on some city streets, these have time limits (usually 60 minutes) that cannot be extended. Overstaying will result in a violation.  
  • Penalties: Illegal parking is taken very seriously. Fines are steep (15,000-18,000 yen), and you must report to a police station to handle the ticket before you can return your rental car.  

A Note on Cultural Harmony

Finally, remember that driving offers a unique chance to engage with Japan on a more local level. When you pull over in a small town for lunch, you're not just a tourist passing through; you're a temporary part of that community. Be mindful of local customs. For instance, many international visitors, particularly from the US, are used to taking leftovers from restaurants, a practice less common in Japan. Having a car gives you the flexibility to find shops or restaurants that cater to your preferences, and a place to store your purchases. Embrace the slower pace of rural life, be considerate of other drivers, and you'll find that the courtesy you show on the road is returned tenfold by the people you meet along the way.

Conclusion: Write Your Own Japan Story

A trip to Japan can be many things. It can be a whirlwind tour of famous temples and neon-lit streets, a journey dictated by the precise schedule of a bullet train. There is nothing wrong with that trip; it is efficient, and you will see many beautiful things.

But it can also be something more. It can be the thrill of navigating a winding mountain pass in a car born from that very landscape. It can be the quiet joy of discovering a tiny, family-run restaurant in a village the train tracks forgot. It can be the freedom of watching a sunset over the Pacific from a cliffside viewpoint you found by chance, with no final train to catch.

The most memorable travels are not about ticking boxes on a pre-written list. They are about the unexpected detours, the spontaneous decisions, and the personal discoveries that weave together to form a story that is uniquely yours. The trains can show you Japan's cities. But the road... the road will let you find your Japan.

I've got the keys waiting for you. Let's start your adventure.