Fun photo ops and all-you-can-eat desserts for just ¥265 – 5 must-do highlights at Japan’s largest mall

▲ Osaka Expo City features Japan’s tallest red horse Ferris wheel.

Reported and photographed by reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Japan

Osaka is one of Taiwan’s favorite Japanese travel destinations. For a one-stop shop that combines shopping, photo ops, and entertainment, head to “Osaka Expo City.” ETtoday Travel Cloud reveals 5 must-do highlights here – this massive Japanese complex is not to be missed when visiting Osaka.

1. LaLaport EXPOCITY – A Shopper’s Paradise
The reason LaLaport EXPOCITY is such a great place to shop is that it houses a total of 305 stores. Popular Japanese brands commonly found in department stores, such as URBAN RESEARCH, NOLLEY'S & good man, AS KNOW AS PINKY, and calbee+, offering fashion, food, and lifestyle goods, can all be found here. There’s something for everyone, making it easy to spend the whole day exploring.

2. All-You-Can-Eat Dessert Afternoon Tea at Sweets Paradise
Located next to LaLaport EXPOCITY, Sweets Paradise offers an all-you-can-eat dessert afternoon tea service. For just ¥980 (about NT$265), you can enjoy unlimited desserts and drinks for 70 minutes. Note that the all-you-can-eat dessert service only starts at 3 PM.

3. Japan’s Tallest Ferris Wheel – 360-Degree Views of Osaka at Night
Right next to LaLaport EXPOCITY stands Japan’s tallest “Redhorse Osaka Wheel.” It’s a must-ride attraction. The best time to go is at night – during the 20-minute ride, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka’s illuminated cityscape from 123 meters above ground. Proposing here under the night lights would surely have a 100% success rate. On clear days, you can even see Abeno Harukas, Japan’s tallest building, in the distance. It’s a romantic experience you can’t miss at Expo City.

4. A Living Museum – NIFREL
NIFREL blends the styles of an aquarium, zoo, and art gallery. The venue is divided into 7 zones where visitors can learn about aquatic life and other creatures through various interactive experiences using sight, touch, and more. In the “Interaction” zone, small animals roam freely – capybaras, ring-tailed lemurs, peacocks, and others wander around, allowing visitors to observe these adorable creatures up close without touching them.

The “Wonder Moments” area is the most photogenic spot in the museum. It offers a space art experience that feels like gazing at planets from outer space. Standing beneath the spherical installation, you can even feel a “shower of light” raining down on you – the romantic ambiance makes it a favorite spot for visitors to linger.

5. Christmas Market
Osaka Expo City is hosting its first-ever Christmas market this year. In the plaza in front of the shopping mall, visitors can enjoy a variety of festive foods. Hot mulled wine served in Christmas boot-shaped cups delivers a sweet and warming treat that’s perfect for both the heart and stomach – a must-try new winter experience.