The Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts' collection consists of approximately 8,700 pieces, primarily Japanese and Chinese art. It spans a wide range of genres, from painting, calligraphy, sculpture, metalwork, lacquerware, ceramics, and dyed textiles, spanning from ancient to modern times. Its Chinese paintings and stone Buddha statues are particularly highly acclaimed, boasting a collection of masterpieces including national treasures and important cultural properties.

Highlights include Chinese paintings, such as the Important Cultural Property "Ming Consort Leaving the Quarter (Gong Suran)," Buddhist art, and many excellent Japanese paintings and crafts with ties to the Kansai region.

Collection exhibitions and special exhibitions are regularly held.

Renovations in 2025 included new lighting, improved traffic flow, and barrier-free access. While retaining the prewar modernist exterior, the exhibition space is now more comfortable and easier to view.

The museum is built on the site of the former Sumitomo family residence, with Keizei-en Garden, designed by modern landscape architect Jihei Ogawa, stretching out behind it.

The area around the museum is also dotted with Osaka's most famous tourist spots, including Tsutenkaku, Tennoji Zoo, and Shitennoji Temple.