Discover the Ultimate Airport Experience at Itami Airport in Osaka

Are you landing at Itami Airport to visit Osaka? Don't worry, there's plenty to do while you're at the airport!

Itami Airport is your gateway to an amazing trip in Osaka. It was once called Osaka International Airport. However, since 1939, Itami has served domestic flights to the Osaka region and other parts of Japan.

Itami Airport is just ten kilometers from downtown Osaka, making it more than simply a transit point. It offers a range of features to ensure your domestic flight experience is both easy and pleasant.

Tips for your stop at Itami Airport

If you have some time to kill at Itami Airport, here's how to make the best of it. You might have a few hours or a whole day. There are lots of things to do and places to enjoy there.

1. Explore the airport's shops and eateries: Itami Airport has useful spots to boost your fun. Shops, cafes, and restaurants line the terminal. Go shopping for souvenirs, enjoy meals, or sip on a hot drink.

2. Engage in entertainment options: If fun is on your mind, Itami Airport won't disappoint. Check out the JAL Lounge for comfy seats and free snacks. Or, visit the rooftop deck to see planes up close. You can even dine at Northshore Cafe with a view of the planes.

3. Make use of airport facilities: The airport has many facilities to keep you comfortable. Use the free Wi-Fi to stay in touch. Charge your devices at the available stations. Need a refresh? There are showers and restrooms around the airport. Plus, a hotel if you have to stay overnight and need to rest.

4. Plan nearby activities: Explore the wonders of the Kansai region from Itami Airport! Reach Kobe in about 30 minutes, Nara in around 60 minutes, and Umeda, the bustling center of Osaka, is also easily accessible. Plus, experience the magic of Universal Studios Japan which is just a short ride away. 

Where to see the planes up close during your time at the airport

Love watching planes land and take off? Itami Airport has two great spots for you to visit. 

Watch the runway from the rooftop observation deck

The rooftop observation deck at Itami Airport is a must-see. It's located on the fourth floor just across from the passenger terminal. From here, you have a clear view of the runway. You can see planes as they arrive and take off. Take some photos and relax while you enjoy the peaceful setting.

See the planes while dining at Northshore Cafe

Prefer to watch planes while eating? Head to Northshore Cafe, which is also on the fourth floor of Itami Airport. It's in the open part of the airport. The cafe has big windows, offering great views of the runway and planes. Enjoy tasty food while seeing planes up close. 

Sample the local cuisine at Itami Airport's restaurants

Itami Airport in Osaka is a food lover's paradise. You'll find a variety of meals there, from classics to unique tastes, perfect for anyone.

Have a drink at Osaka Airport Winery

Osaka Airport Winery is the world's first airport winery. The winery is open from 09:00 AM to 10:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a glass of wine before your flight. Its cozy setting creates a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding before a journey.

The winery offers a selection of local wines made on-site, allowing you to experience the region's unique flavors. They also serve wines from Japan's finest wineries, providing wine enthusiasts with a diverse range of options.

Osaka Airport Winery offers a menu featuring southern Italian cuisine to complement the wines. From pasta dishes to seafood specialties, the culinary offerings are designed to enhance the wine-tasting experience and create a memorable dining experience.

Located on the third floor, next to the information stand and before security, the winery is easily accessible for departing and arriving passengers. Whether you're beginning your journey or waiting for a connecting flight, the Osaka Airport Winery is a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine.

Try the famous butaman at 551 Horai

551 Horai is one of the most famous and popular restaurants in Osaka. Their specialty is butaman, which is a steamed bun with sweet, salty pork inside. At 551 Horai, the butaman pork buns are handmade, making them extra special. However, don't skip their trademark seafood, yakisoba, either. 

For your convenience, there are two 551 Horai locations in Itami Airport. One is on the second floor in the South Terminal before security, and you can sit down to dine here. The other is also on the second floor before security but in the Central Block and is only for to-go orders.

Indulge in a cotton cheesecake at Rikuro's

At Rikuro's, the cotton cheesecake is a local favorite. It's soft and light, and you'll find a layer of sweet raisins at the bottom of each cake. This dessert is the perfect accompaniment to your meal at the airport or as a unique and delicious souvenir. The cotton cheesecake at Rikuro's is so popular that it often sells out before closing time. So, make sure to purchase yours as early as you can to avoid disappointment.

Rikuro's is located after security near the boarding gates in the North Terminal and is open from 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM. There is also a Rikuro's Cafe Stand on-site, where you can enjoy sliced cheesecake and drinks while waiting for boarding.

Taste the famous takoyaki octopus dumpling at Takobon

Eating takoyaki is a must in Osaka, and Takobon is a great place to try it. Try the octopus dumplings for a gooey, savory snack. They're known worldwide for their delicious taste.

You'll find Takobon after security in the boarding gates area.

Go shopping at Itami Airport while you wait

Waiting for your flight at Itami Airport is a great time for some retail therapy.

Purchase travel goods and traditional Japanese crafts at Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten

Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten is the place to pick up high-quality travel goods and traditional Japanese crafts in between flights. Grab everyday useful items like travel organizers for a convenient trip across Japan. Alternatively, browse the selection of local crafts and choose a souvenir or two to better remember your experience. Find it on the second floor in the north terminal after security.

Pick up a souvenir at Kansai Tabinikki

Kansai Tabinikki is the spot for unique Japanese souvenirs in the airport. Here, you can find perfect gifts for friends and family. Choose from traditional crafts, food, clothes, and much more. It is located on the second floor before security.

Stock up on medicine at Kokumin Drug Store

Need travel health items? Head to Kokumin Drug Store. Here, you'll find everything from medicines to personal care products. It's a one-stop shop for staying healthy while traveling. It's on the second floor before security.

Relax in style in the JAL Lounge

Enjoy a luxury break at the JAL Lounge in Itami Airport. Depending on your level of membership, you can access either JAL Sakura Lounge or JAL Diamond Premier Lounge. Both options are perfect for unwinding and recharging away from the airport rush.

Additionally, passengers who do not have lounge access privileges can use the Sakura Lounge for a fee. For 3,000 yen per person, you can enjoy a comfortable space along with a variety of drinks, including several types of alcohol, and snacks while you wait for your departure. If you wish to use this service, please inquire at the JAL Sakura Lounge reception at Itami Airport. (Payment is cash only)

As a JAL Lounge guest, you'll find many features aimed at your comfort. There are spots to work or chill with free Wi-Fi and handy charging stations. This way, you can stay on top of things before your next flight. Choose from coffee, tea, juice, or enjoy some of our delicious snacks. The JAL Lounges cater to all tastes with its refreshment options.

From quiet spots to mingle zones, you'll find the perfect setting to unwind in the JAL Lounges. Each lounge is thoughtfully designed for your comfort and peace. They have wide open windows that reveal a fascinating view of the airport.

For work trips or vacations, the JAL Lounges offer the ideal retreat. Ditch the hustle, pause your travel, and soak up the lounge's stylish environment while you wait for your next flight.

Centrally located for easy access to Osaka attractions

Itami Airport is right at the heart of Osaka’s adventure spots. From Itami Airport, you can easily reach Kobe, Nara, and Umeda, making it a convenient hub for exploring neighboring cities. Its location makes it perfect for quick trips to top sights. You can explore museums, nature spots, and shopping hubs within a short journey from here.

Visit the interactive Cup Noodles Museum

Just a short distance from the airport is something really cool — the Cup Noodles Museum. You'll find out all about instant ramen. Plus, you can design your own Cup Noodles to keep as a fun memento.

Address: 8-25 Masumicho, Ikeda City, Osaka Prefecture 563-0041 

Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (The last admission is at 3:30 PM). Closed on Tuesdays (in case Tuesday is a National Holiday, the following day will be a non-business day), year-end through New Year Holidays.

How to get there: Take the train from Itami Airport Station to Ikeda Station. The museum is about a 5-minute walk away.

Get some fresh air at Expo '70 Commemorative Park

For a breather in nature, Expo '70 Commemorative Park is perfect. It’s big and beautiful with gardens and green spaces. You could walk, have a picnic, or just enjoy the quiet.

Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture 565-0826

Opening hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

How to get there: Take the Osaka Monorail Local towards Kadomashi from Itami Airport. Get off at Bampakukinenkoen Station and walk 6 minutes to the park.

Eat, shop, and play at EXPOCITY

Next to the airport is EXPOCITY, a place with lots to do. You can eat at great restaurants, find cool souvenirs, or have fun in the theme park. It’s a great mix of dining, shopping, and excitement.

Address: 2-1 Senribanpakukōen, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture 565-0826

Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and until 9:00 PM on weekends and holidays.

How to get there: Take the Osaka Monorail Local towards Kadomashi from Itami Airport. Get off at Bampakukinenkoen Station and walk 8 minutes to EXPOCITY.

Take a limousine bus to see Kyoto

Want to see more than Osaka? There are limousine buses from Itami Airport to Kyoto. Dive into Japan's old culture at historic sites like the Golden Pavilion or Fushimi Inari Shrine. Don’t miss the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

By being close to these amazing places, Itami Airport opens the door to Osaka's and Kyoto's wonders. It’s your starting point for unforgettable trips in and around these lively cities.

Take a flight with JAL from Itami Airport

Itami Airport in Osaka offers a top-notch experience for travelers. It's in the heart of Osaka, making travel easy and fun. You'll love the facilities and amenities they offer, which cover all your needs. Enjoy tasty local cuisine, great shopping, and nearby attractions.

Make the most of your time in Japan with the JAL Japan Explorer Pass from JAL, which provides both convenience and savings. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to book a JAL flight back home via Tokyo from Itami Airport, a world-class and thrilling destination.

FAQs

How can I transit from Itami Airport to another domestic airport?

If you're moving from Itami Airport to another in the region, you have choices. Airport buses and trains can take you to your next domestic airport, making getting there simple and stress-free.

Is Osaka and Kansai airport the same?

Osaka Airport and Kansai Airport are different places. Osaka is a lively city in Japan, famous for its culture and food. Kansai Airport is where international flights for Osaka land. Domestic flights mainly use Itami Airport.

Which Osaka airport is closer to the city?

To get to Osaka's city center faster, choose Itami Airport. It's closer than Kansai Airport, which means less travel time and easier transport options. Your city destination will be quickly accessible. Itami Airport also offers convenient access to major cities in neighboring prefectures like Kobe, Nara, and Umeda, making it an ideal hub for travelers.

Does Itami Airport have international flights?

Itami Airport does not manage international flights. For trips outside Japan, you'll fly to or from Kansai Airport. There, you'll find all you need for international travel, like immigration services.

Is Itami Airport big?

Itami Airport is smaller than Kansai Airport, but it offers many services for travelers. You'll find easy check-in and security, plus places to eat and shop, which helps make your journey smooth.