Getting around in Osaka

Despite the city's large size, getting around in Osaka is fairly straightforward. Plenty of options make local travel easy. Trains and subways are the best and most comprehensive forms of public transport, though the sheer number of routes available can be dizzying. While taxis are fast and reliable, they are expensive.

Public transport in Osaka

Public transport in Osaka uses a smart card system known as ICOCA. This prepaid card allows travellers to easily pay for railway and bus rides, and can even be used at certain shops. ICOCA cards can be purchased and recharged at railway stations either via ticket vending machines or at the ticket office.

Subway

Nine colour-coded lines make up the subway system in Osaka. Each station has a name as well as an alphanumeric code. This can significantly ease pronunciation issues. It's easy to see that 'M14', for example, is much less of a tongue-twister than 'Nishinakajima-Minamigata'.

The subway runs from 5am to midnight every day of the week. Taking the subway at peak travel times can be chaotic due to overcrowding. Expats should note that it's a common courtesy in Japan to avoid speaking loudly or making phone calls on the subway. This helps maintain a peaceful environment for all commuters.

Trains

The main rail service in Osaka is operated by West Japan Railway Company (WJRC). The network is made up of nine train lines, including a shinkansen (bullet train) line. These connect Osaka to surrounding regions and are an excellent way to travel around the greater Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe metropolitan area.

Buses

The bus service in Osaka is comprehensive and convenient. Many bus stops are adjacent to railway stations, making transferring easy. The bus is boarded in the rear or centre, and passengers exit through the front of the bus, paying the fare as they leave. Each trip is charged at a flat rate. 

While English is not widely spoken among bus drivers, expats might find it helpful to have a few key Japanese phrases on hand or to have their destination written down in Japanese.

Useful links

• ICOCA
• Osaka Metro
• West Japan Railway Company
• Osaka City Bus

Taxis in Osaka

All taxis in Osaka are regulated and use meters with standardised pricing. Though expensive, taxis are a valuable option to have, especially when the subway is closed for the night or if your destination isn't close to a train station or bus stop. Taxis can be found in taxi ranks around the city or can be hailed from the street. An occupied taxi will display a red light on the windscreen.

Expats should keep in mind that not all taxi drivers may be fluent in English so it's best to have your destination address written down in Japanese. Another cultural note; taxis in Japan are equipped with automatic doors controlled by the driver, so there's no need for travellers to open or close the door themselves.

Ride-hailing apps like Uber are available in Osaka and are a valuable alternative to regular taxis.

Useful links

• Uber
• Osaka Taxi Association

Driving in Osaka

Expats wanting to drive in Osaka will initially need an international driver's permit. This allows you to start driving on arrival in Japan. 

To get a local licence, residents must first have their licence from home officially translated into Japanese. After making an appointment at the nearest Japanese Driving Centre, the licence translation is submitted along with several other documents, including proof of residence. 

Once these documents have been processed, expats from certain countries will be granted a local licence immediately. Others must first pass written and practical tests before their licence is issued.

Find out more about Driving in Japan.

Cycling and walking in Osaka

Though Osaka is large, the landscape is generally flat, making walking and cycling a pleasant way to get around within specific areas. Both are popular pursuits among locals. Alternative modes of transport like the subway or bus are recommended for longer distances.

If you're planning to cycle, your bicycle needs to be registered with the police – an easy but necessary process. When travelling by foot, be aware that jaywalking is frowned upon, and it's common practice to wait for the light, even if there's no traffic.