Stretching along the shores of the Yodo River is Konohana, a lively neighborhood that boasts varied culinary, entertainment and recreational attractions. Spend an exciting day out for all ages at an amusement park, shop at brandname stores and dine at world-famous chain restaurants. Visit Konohana’s Buddhist temples and explore the sport and leisure attractions of a manmade island.

Thrill-seekers and movie fans meet at Universal Studios Japan™ for action-packed theatrical performances, concerts and roller coasters. Discover rides that recreate Hollywood favorites such as Jurassic Park and Shrek. Nearby Universal CityWalk Osaka has Japanese retail and dining alongside Hard Rock Café, TGI Fridays and other international restaurants. Learn about and sample the traditional street food takoyaki (octopus dumplings) at the Osaka Takoyaki Museum.

Experience the district’s spiritual side while observing religious devotion at tranquil temples such as the Sainenji Temple and Shorenji Temple. On the northern warfront is the stylish Osaka Hokko Marina. Charter an ocean cruise, join a fishing trip, rent a speedboat and feast on a Japanese-style barbecue buffet.

From the marina, Konohana Bridge crosses an inlet to the manmade Maishima Sports Island. It’s home to sports fields and stadiums, playgrounds, dog parks and barbecue and picnic areas. Try your hand at crafting ceramics at interactive workshops at the Maishima Pottery Museum. Sit in the bleachers and cheer on home runs and strikes at Osaka City Shinkin Bank Stadium.

Feel the sea breeze on your face while walking along the island’s Seaside Promenade. Views reach across the bay to Kobe and are notably impressive at sunset. Take time to appreciate sloping beds of multicolored lilies at the Osaka Maishima Lily Garden.

Konohana sits to the west of Fukushima Ward and to the north of Minato Ward. Travel by train from central Osaka to Nishikujō Station and then continue on the JR Yumesaki Line. The Tempozan Ferry connects the district with Tempozan Park and Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, in Minato.