11 Must-See Winter Illuminations in Osaka 2025–2026 for Muslim Travellers

Osaka is one of Japan's most popular holiday destinations for tourists worldwide. Bustling with diverse attractions and culinary delights, this city is a dream come true for many during the winter. The rich blend of culture and modern touches is a captivating experience during a winter trip to Osaka, Japan.

Also read: Japan Now Offers Halal Bento Boxes on More Shinkansen Lines

From enjoying the thrilling rides at Universal Studios Japan, soaking in an onsen (hot spring), to witnessing a stunning illumination festival, Osaka has proven itself to be the perfect winter travel destination in Japan. Curious? Here are some winter travel recommendations you should definitely add to your holiday itinerary.

1. Nakanoshima Illumination with various giant statues

Image credit: @hikari_kyouen

Another illumination festival you must visit is the Nakanoshima Illumination. This festival is held annually until the end of December at Miotsukushi Promenade in Nakanoshima Park. The atmosphere is even more festive with lights adorning rows of arches, trees, and even a giant snowman-like sculpture. The projection shows reflected on the walls add to the excitement of the night.

Address: Nakanoshima Park, 1 Chome Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, Japan

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Spacious park makes it easy to pause for Maghrib/Isha.

• Halal food nearby at Umeda (Matsuri Halal Restaurant, Halal Wagyu PANGA).

• Umeda Mosque is about 20 minutes away.

2. Dotonbori, take a photo in front of the iconic Glico billboard

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You haven't been to Osaka without visiting the iconic Dotonbori, a gathering place for tourists from all over the world. Bring your best outfit for a photo in front of the ever-popular Glico billboard. There's plenty to do here, from cruising the river on a boat to exploring the hearty and delicious Japanese street food.

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Street food is mostly non-halal; stick to seafood or vegetarian items and double-check ingredients.

• Halal food nearby: Naruto Kitchen Halal Ramen, Nagomi Halal Kobe Beef.

• Prayer can be done at Namba Parks or Osaka Masjid.

3. Ebisu Tower, experience the thrill of riding a unique Ferris wheel

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The best place to enjoy the bustling city of Osaka from above is on the Ferris wheel at Ebisu Tower and Don Quijote Dotonbori. Uniquely, the Ferris wheel is oval and rotates horizontally. The wheel rotates for 15 minutes, with four seats per gondola. From here, you can see the Dotonbori area sparkling with lights at night.

Address: Don Quijote Dotonbori, 7-13 Souemoncho, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan

Opening hours: Daily, 11.00-22.00

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Don Quijote sells many Muslim-friendly snacks, but always check labels.

• Best to plan prayers beforehand since nights get crowded.

4. Universal Studios Japan, with its festive Christmas parade

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Whether you're travelling alone, with friends, or with family, have fun at Universal Studios Japan. This theme park offers an unforgettable experience with exciting and thrilling rides. During winter, snow begins to cover the castle, creating a truly magical scene. Furthermore, you can also see festive Christmas decorations and parades at the end of the year.

Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, Japan

Muslim Travel Tip:

• No halal-certified restaurants inside, so bring your own halal meals.

• Staff may allow prayer in the first-aid or nursing rooms.

• Halal restaurants are available around Sakurajima and Nishikujo stations.

5. Kaiyukan Aquarium with free light show

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Another popular winter attraction in Osaka, Japan, is the Kaiyukan Aquarium. This aquarium is always busy and a favourite with visitors of all ages, from children to seniors. Here, you'll discover the fascinating underwater world.

During winter, the Kaiyukan Illuminations festival is regularly held in the aquarium's courtyard. Various light installations and displays add to the festive atmosphere. From mid-November to late February, everything from Christmas trees to fireworks displays is free to enjoy.

Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, Japan

Opening hours: 10:30-20:00 (Monday-Friday), 09:00-20:00 (Saturday), 08:30-20:00 (Sunday)

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Prayer can be done at Tempozan Marketplace (quiet corners available).

• Limited halal food — bring snacks or eat later at the Bentencho area.

6. Midosuji Illuminations, a light illumination festival in the city centre

Image credit: Thanh Van Đình | Pexels

When night falls, don't rush back to your accommodation; you can stroll around and enjoy the beauty of the Midosuji Illuminations. This illumination stretches along the approximately 2-kilometre-long Midosuji Road. See the ginkgo trees on both sides of the road, illuminated with colourful lights, sparkling brightly from early November to late December each year.

Address: Midosuji Street, Osaka, Japan

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Midosuji links Umeda and Namba, two areas rich in halal food.

• Malls like Daimaru Shinsaibashi or Namba City often let travellers pray in quiet corners.

7. Osaka Castle with its beautiful illumination festival

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As one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, Osaka Castle is a true beauty in every season, including winter. See the castle's beauty as it begins to be covered in snow, creating a romantic atmosphere.

During winter, you can also experience the Osaka Castle Illumination, where the castle is illuminated by approximately 3.5 million LED lights. This illumination festival instantly illuminates the castle and its vast grounds, mirroring the falling snow. The festival is held annually from early November to early February.

Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan

Opening hours: Daily, 09.00-18.00

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Osaka Castle Park has plenty of open space for prayer.

• Halal food nearby in the Tanimachi and Uehonmachi areas.

8. Umeda Sky Building with its bustling Christmas market

Image credit: @umeda_skybuilding

If you want to take a viral escalator photo, then head to the Umeda Sky Building. This skyscraper is the best spot for a bird's-eye view of Osaka. During winter, the building hosts an illumination festival and lively German Christmas Markets from mid-November to the end of December 25th each year.

Enjoy the beauty of a 25-meter-tall Christmas tree adorned with 130,000 LED lights. The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by the numerous wooden stalls, making you feel like you're in Europe. These stalls sell a variety of culinary delights and handicrafts, which are a must-buy souvenir.

Address: Shin Umeda City, 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, Japan

Opening hours: Daily, 9:30-22:00

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Christmas Market food is mostly non-halal; choose drinks or vegetarian options.

• Umeda Mosque is nearby for prayer.

• Umeda has many halal-certified and Muslim-friendly restaurants.

9. Kuromon Ichiba Market, a culinary paradise for Japanese specialities

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After a stroll, it's time to fill your stomach at Kuromon Ichiba Market. Osaka's most popular traditional market is known for its distinctive red paper lanterns, ranging in size from small to large, that enliven the streets. Here, you can buy and enjoy a variety of Japanese cuisine, from seafood to mochi.

Address: 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan

Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Seafood stalls are usually safe; check if sauces contain alcohol.

• Avoid broths with dashi (may contain mirin).

• Halal restaurants nearby: Halal Kobe Beef Nagomi, Honolu Halal Ramen.

10. Solaniwa Onsen, a hot spring to warm your body

Image credit: SOLANIWA ONSEN OSAKA BAY TOWER official website

Amidst the chilly winter air, warm up quickly with a soak in the traditional Japanese-style hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. This onsen (hot spring) resort boasts many attractive amenities, allowing guests to wear traditional yukata while touring the gardens and onsen.

There are nine types of baths, ranging from indoor to outdoor, with pure hot springs. After soaking, you can also enjoy a culinary experience at the restaurant, which serves classic izakaya cuisine. It's no wonder this place becomes even more popular during the winter, warming up and unwinding after exploring the city.

Address: Osaka Bay Tower, 1 Chome-2-3 Benten, Minato Ward, Osaka, Japan

Opening hours: Daily, 11:00-23:00

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Onsens require full nudity. If uncomfortable, look for facilities offering private onsen rooms.

• Food inside may not be halal, so choose vegetarian/seafood options.

11. Minoh Waterfall, a waterfall surrounded by snow

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For nature lovers, don't miss a visit to Minoh Waterfall, popular in every season. In winter, you'll be awed by the beauty of the 33-meter-high waterfall. The scenery surrounding the falls transforms from green and orange in autumn to white as it's covered in snow.

Address: 2-2 Minookoen, Minoh, Osaka, Japan

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Muslim Travel Tip:

• Long walking trail, pray before or after at your hotel or Minoh Station.

• Local snack momiji tempura can be Muslim-friendly (check batter).

• Good morning spot before heading to the Osaka Central Mosque for Jumu’ah.

Also read: 9 FREE Places to Visit in Tokyo That Are Perfect for Muslim Travellers

From castles and hot springs to amusement parks, Osaka is a must-visit holiday destination. So, are you ready to experience the thrill of winter in Osaka, Japan? Pack a thick jacket and book your vacation now.