Are you looking for a fun foodie adventure in Japan? Are you visiting Osaka and dying to try all kinds of Japanese and international food? Why not check out the Osaka Gourmet Expo 2025 — one of the best food events in Osaka this year!
Osaka is famously known as Japan’s food capital, a haven for food lovers from around the world. Whether you’re into takoyaki, okonomiyaki, ramen, or new international dishes, there’s no doubt that Osaka will satisfy your cravings. So, if you’re already in Kansai or planning a trip to the area, this is one foodie event you do not want to miss!
The Osaka Gourmet Expo 2025 is being held from April 12 until October 13 (11 AM to 10 PM), giving you plenty of time to check it out — maybe even more than once!
Interestingly, this gourmet festival runs alongside the Osaka World Expo 2025, an international event focused on SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). Want to learn more about how Japan is participating in the global conversation on sustainability? Check out this related article:
SDGs in Japan: How You Can Contribute to a Sustainable Future
Here’s the best part: Admission is completely FREE! You can walk right in and explore the entire gourmet expo without paying an entry fee.
However, food is sold separately and prices depend on what you get. Dishes range anywhere from around ¥400 and up. If you’re planning to sample a few dishes (and we hope you do!), purchasing meal vouchers on the official website is a smart way to save a little cash.
Official Website: Osaka Gourmet Expo
This delicious event is held on the scenic Osaka Castle Grounds — a major sightseeing spot in Osaka. Just take the train to Osaka-Jōkōen Station (a.k.a. Osaka Castle Park Station), and you’re almost there!
From the station, simply follow the signs on your left-hand side after exiting. You’ll walk through a lantern-lit path straight to the gourmet expo grounds. It’s a perfect spot to combine cultural sightseeing with amazing food!
Parking: No designated parking is available at the venue. Visitors traveling by car should use the nearby public parking lots.
Bicycle Access: There are several bike parking spots around the venue.
One thing to remember is that no cash is accepted at the Osaka Gourmet Expo. That’s right — it’s a completely cashless experience.
You can pay for your meals via:
One of the other great things about this gourmet expo is that they have different performances for you to watch as you eat. It’s like a dinner show, which I find to be very cool! Another amazing feature of this event is the live entertainment happening while you eat. Think of it as your own Osaka-style dinner show!
There’s a variety of performances including:
To view the shows, you’ll need to purchase a performance ticket. These tickets often come bundled with meal vouchers, so it’s a win-win.
***Performances take place on the Utage Stage, and signs at the expo will guide you to the performance area where seating is available.
With over 30 booths featuring cuisine from Vietnam, Korea, Japan, India, and more, this event offers a global culinary experience — right in the heart of Osaka.
Each booth serves up its best dishes, so whether you’re a fan of Asian fusion, street food, or comfort food from home, there’s something for everyone. Come hungry, because you’ll want to try it all.
I decided to take myself on a little solo date to this food festival. Sometimes, it’s nice to enjoy something completely on your own — no waiting, no coordinating, just food and freedom.
I went during the afternoon in between work,I went during the afternoon between work hours, which was perfect. There were almost no lines, and the vibe was super chill. I found a cozy spot to sit and browse through the food choices on my phone.
Here’s what I ended up getting:
🍔 Burger & Fries Set – ¥1,500
🍌 Okinawa Banana Smoothie – ¥600
Everything was super fresh, delicious, and satisfying. The burger was juicy, and the smoothie was the perfect touch on a warm afternoon.
Photo 10
This event is perfect for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families. Whether you’re a foodie, an expat in Japan, or just looking for fun things to do in Osaka, this gourmet expo is worth a visit. I already plan to go back — probably next time with friends to enjoy the night performances and evening lights. The atmosphere is likely to be even more magical after dark.
Overall, the Osaka Gourmet Expo 2025 is an event I’ll remember — and revisit. With its diverse food options, free entry, convenient location, and entertainment lineup, it’s one of the top cultural and culinary experiences in Osaka this year.
Be sure to visit before October 13, and don’t forget to bring your appetite and a digital payment method.
In the meantime, stay hungry, healthy, and happy!
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