Osaka University Of Tourism

Osaka University of Tourism Visiting Guide: Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Osaka University of Tourism, located in Kumatori within Osaka Prefecture’s Senshu region, is a leading institution specializing in tourism and hospitality education. Established initially as a girls’ high school in 1921, it has since evolved into Japan’s first four-year undergraduate university dedicated exclusively to tourism studies. This evolution mirrors Japan’s prioritization of tourism as a vehicle for economic growth and cultural exchange. The university emphasizes global citizenship, sustainability, and cultural understanding, offering diverse programs from tourism management to language acquisition and environmental sciences. Its modern, accessible campus is close to notable landmarks such as Kishiwada Castle and historic temples, providing visitors and prospective students with a rich educational and cultural experience. This guide details admissions, visiting hours, campus facilities, local attractions, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit or academic journey at Osaka University of Tourism (Official University Website; Times Higher Education; Gotouniversity; Academic Impact Japan).

History and Development
Mission and Academic Philosophy
Academic Programs
Admissions and Enrollment
Campus Visiting Hours and Tours
Campus Facilities and Accessibility
Student Life and Accommodation
Local Attractions and Travel Tips
Accreditation and Recognition
Graduate Outcomes and Industry Connections
FAQs

History and Development

Early Origins
Founded in 1921 as a girls’ high school with Buddhist affiliations, the institution became secular in 1932. By 1985, it transitioned to a Junior Women’s College and later opened to male students as Osaka Denkyo College in 1999, offering a four-year tourism program (Times Higher Education; Gotouniversity).

Modernization and University Establishment
In 2006, it rebranded as Osaka University of Tourism, becoming the first four-year university in Japan to feature “Tourism” in its name, marking its commitment to tourism studies as an academic discipline (Official University Website).

Mission and Academic Philosophy

The university’s 2022 Charter highlights three guiding principles:

From Bondage to Freedom: Promoting tourism as a means for personal growth and fostering societal values.
From Isolation to Coexistence: Embracing the UN’s motto “Tourism is a Passport to Peace” to foster symbiosis and peace.
From Waste to Sustainability: Committing to sustainable tourism aligned with global environmental responsibilities (UNWTO).

The university aims to cultivate “Kokorojobu”—individuals with depth, cultural understanding, and the ability to tackle global challenges (Times Higher Education).

Academic Programs

Faculty of Tourism
The university offers a Bachelor of Tourism degree with a curriculum focused on:

Tourism profession skills (practical industry training)
Travel skills (practical and enjoyment-focused)
21st-century skills (global awareness and intercultural communication) (Univ Journal)

Students select from 34 “studios” covering areas such as management, regional promotion, cultural studies, accounting, IT, philosophy, psychology, performing arts, anthropology, health sciences, literature, and history (Gotouniversity).

Language and International Studies
Courses are offered in English, Japanese, Spanish, Asian languages, French, and Chinese. The curriculum also includes biology, physics, geography, environmental studies, management, economics, politics, law, and international relations (Gotouniversity).

Admissions and Enrollment

Prospective students can find detailed admissions information on the official university website. The university welcomes both domestic and international applicants, offering support for language proficiency and visa procedures. As of 2018, enrollment stood at around 772 students, with a significant international student body, mainly from China and Vietnam (Times Higher Education).

Campus Visiting Hours and Tours

Visiting Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Weekend access is limited to special events or open campus days.
Admission: General campus admission is free. Certain events, guided tours, or workshops may require advance registration or a small fee (Osaka University Visit).
Guided Tours: Offered for prospective students and guests, with English-language tours available by prior arrangement.
Accessibility: The campus is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms (Osaka University Visit Accessibility).

Campus Facilities and Accessibility

Located in Kumatori, the campus features modern lecture halls, seminar rooms, libraries specializing in tourism, computer labs, student lounges, and sports centers. International students from over a dozen countries create a diverse, lively atmosphere. Facilities are designed for inclusivity, with amenities for visitors and students with disabilities (Gotouniversity).

Student Life and Accommodation

The university offers a vibrant student life, with opportunities to participate in cultural events, regional revitalization projects, and international expositions like Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai (Academic Impact Japan). Accommodation includes on-campus dormitories and partnerships with local housing providers.

Local Attractions and Travel Tips

Nearby Sites:

Kishiwada Castle: Explore feudal history and scenic views.
Mizuma Temple & Inunakisan Temple: For cultural immersion and reflection.
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri: An annual festival with elaborate floats and lively processions.

Access:

30 minutes by train or taxi from Kansai International Airport.
Connected to Osaka City by JR Hanwa Line (Tennoji Station to Kumatori Station).
Ample parking available for visitors (Wikipedia).

Best Visiting Seasons: Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (fall foliage) (Magical Trip - Osaka Guide).

On-campus amenities: Free WiFi, English-language support at visitor desks, and diverse dining options.

Accreditation and Recognition

Osaka University of Tourism is accredited by the Japan Institution for Higher Education Evaluation (JIHEE) and Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (Gotouniversity). In 2023, it earned TedQual international accreditation, confirming its global standards in tourism education (Academic Impact Japan).

Graduate Outcomes and Industry Connections

Approximately 40% of graduates enter tourism-related fields directly. The university maintains strong ties with local governments, industry, and international organizations, facilitating research, internships, and community projects such as the Japan Tourism Agency’s Regional Tourism Development Model Project in Wakayama (Academic Impact Japan).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What programs are available?
A: The university offers a Bachelor of Tourism with 34 specialty tracks.

Q: How do I apply?
A: Applications are online via the official website.

Q: What are visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–6:00 PM; weekends for special events only.

Q: Is the campus accessible?
A: Yes, with comprehensive facilities for visitors with disabilities.

Q: Are there accommodation options?
A: Yes, both on-campus dormitories and support for finding local housing.

Osaka Castle: A Historical Treasure Near Osaka University of Tourism

Osaka Castle (大阪城, Ōsaka-jō) is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, constructed in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle and its grounds have been restored and now serve as a museum and public park, offering a window into Japan’s feudal era (Official Osaka Castle Website).

Opening Hours: Park: 6:00 AM–9:00 PM; Castle Tower: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM).
Admission: Adults 600 JPY, Students 300 JPY, Children 200 JPY, Under 6 free.
Access: JR Loop Line to Osakajokoen Station or Morinomiya Station (Osaka Metro).

Nearby Attractions:

Nishinomaru Garden (panoramic views)
Osaka Museum of History
Dotonbori (nightlife and food)
Universal Studios Japan

Travel Tips:

Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for foliage.
English-language tours available; advance booking recommended.
The castle is wheelchair accessible (Japan National Tourism Organization).

Summary and Call to Action

Osaka University of Tourism offers a unique blend of historical legacy, specialized education, and cultural immersion for both prospective students and visitors. Its modern, accessible campus, comprehensive support services, and proximity to significant cultural sites make it an ideal destination for study or exploration in Japan’s dynamic Kansai region. Stay connected through the university’s official channels for updates on admissions, campus events, and visitor information. For travel planning and updates, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media.