Despite its size, I find Osaka easier to get around than other large Japanese cities because there are lots of signs and information in English. The exception is Osaka Station, used for JR trains, and its adjoining Umeda Station, used by subway lines and private railway lines Hankyu and Hanshin. Underground passages and shopping arcades complicate navigation; there's no escaping -- you will get lost.
When exploring by foot, it helps to know that most roads running east and west end in "dori," while roads running north and south end in "suji," which means "avenue."
By Subway -- Osaka's user-friendly subway network is easy to use because all lines are color-coded and the station names are in English (even announcements are in English on many lines). The red Midosuji Line is the most important one for visitors; it passes through Shin-Osaka Station and on to Umeda (the subway station next to Osaka Station), Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Tennoji.
Fares begin at ¥200 ($1.65) and increase according to the distance traveled. If you think you'll be traveling a lot by subway on a given day, consider purchasing a One Day Pass for ¥850 ($7.10), which allows unlimited rides on subways and buses all day. On the 20th of each month (or on the following day if the 20th falls on a Sun or holiday) and every Friday, this pass costs just ¥600 ($5) and offers slight discounts to several attractions. For trips outside Osaka, the Surutto Kansai Card (Kansai Thru Pass) allows you to ride subways and buses in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, with a 2-day pass costing ¥3,800 ($32) and a 3-day pass costing ¥5,000 ($42). Children pay half price.
By JR Train -- A Japan Railways train called the Osaka Kanjo Line, or JR Loop Line, passes through Osaka Station and makes a loop around the central part of the city (similar to the Yamanote Line in Tokyo); take it to visit Osaka Castle. Fares begin at ¥120 ($1).
A Note on Directions--For all the attractions, accommodations, and restaurants, I've included the nearest subway or JR station followed by the walking time to the establishment once you reach the indicated station (in parentheses).
