If Japan is on your radar this year, there’s one city that should be at the top of your itinerary: Osaka. Often overshadowed by Tokyo’s buzz and Kyoto’s elegance, Osaka has been quietly leveling up—and in 2025, it’s stepping fully into the spotlight. With the World Expo on the horizon, groundbreaking new developments, and a cultural and culinary scene that’s second to none, Osaka is ready for its moment. Here’s why it’s the hottest Japanese destination of 2025.