Flights from Manila, Philippines to Osaka, Japan

As the second largest city in Japan, after Tokyo, Osaka is a modern metropolis, famous for its delicious street food, fun nightlife, and spectacular autumnal colors. Set on the waterfront, the Universal Studios park is a must-see attraction for most visitors to the area, but the Osaka Aquarium and the city’s shimmering Castle are also fascinating. In summer the Tenjin Festival, which has its roots back in the 10th century, sees the river lit up with fireworks and a colorful procession packed with floats and traditional costumes. To shop for quirky gifts and mementos head to the Amerikamura district in Shinsaibash, where tiny boutiques offer jewelry, clothing, and accessories.

Flying to Osaka

1. Which airports serve Manila to Osaka?

In Manila, flights to Osaka leave from the Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport, located 13km from the city center. Osaka has two airports, but Itami Airport only accepts domestic traffic. From Manila, passengers will land in at Kansai International Airport, perched on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, this unusual hub is 38km south west of the city.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Manila to Osaka?

Around half of all direct flights to Osaka from Manila are handled by Philippine Airlines, but All Nippon, Cebu Pacific, and Cathay also provide daily flights. Other carriers, like China Airline and Jet Star Japan, have scheduled flights between the cities, which involve a stopover.

3. How long is the flight?

It takes 4 hours to fly direct from Manila to Osaka, but with stopovers that can increase to 5 hours and 50 minutes. Japan is one hour ahead of the Philippines.

4. Climate changes between Manila and Osaka

Manila is a tropical city with distinct wet and dry seasons, rainfall is highest from May to November, while January to April is far dryer. Osaka experiences all four seasons, with hot summers breaking into cooler springs and cold winters.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

The Yen is the currency of Japan, it can be obtained in foreign exchange offices, banks, and some larger hotels. Credit cards are a popular method of payment, with Visa, American Express, and MasterCard widely accepted. You will need to arrange a visa before traveling to Osaka through the Japanese embassy, it can take time to process so begin the arrangements well in advance of your trip.

Osaka Information

Depending on which time of year you arrive, the more temperate seasonal climate of Osaka will feel like a relief compared to the humidity and heat of Manila. The port city of Osaka has more inhabitants, as 2.6 million people call it home, but there is plenty of space there for everyone. Subways and trains are the best way to get around and the city’s transport infrastructure is excellent.

You could start your city adventure with a little bargain hunting on the Kuromon Market, then admire the cosplay culture at Nipponbashi, before catching an exhibition at the Kosetsu Museum of Art. Japan is also famous for its gaming consoles and at the Round 1 Stadium, there are seven stories of video games and slot machines to test your skills. If you work up an appetite, the street food is tasty, but for a more refined experience Conrad’s 40 Sky Bar & Lounge, with its incredible views, is the hottest spot for cocktails and snacks.