Osaka

Spicier than Tokyo

Let’s not leave Japan just yet. Osaka is also one of Japan's best food destinations due to its unique local cuisine and its abundance of excellent restaurants. Osaka's food is different from Tokyo's in that it tends to be more robust and flavorful with spicier flavors, often with a heavier emphasis on meat. Whereas Tokyo's food is generally lighter and more delicate. Osaka is also known for its unique regional dishes, some of which can almost only be found in Osaka. There is a lot of street food to explore too, especially at Dotonbori and Kuromon markets.

What to eat in Osaka

You should definitely try unique local specialties such as okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made with cabbage, pork, and other ingredients, takoyaki, a fried snack made of a wheat flour-based batter with pieces of octopus inside, kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers of vegetables, seafood, and meat, and kitsune udon, udon noodles with deep-fried tofu. Osaka is also a great curry destination thanks to both the milder brown curry and spicier yellow curry.

Osaka is easily combined with a visit to nearby Kyoto which is another one of Japan’s best food cities, as well as a truly beautiful place full of ancient temples.

Known for its lively atmosphere and delicious street food, Osaka is a must-visit destination for foodies and those seeking a taste of Japan's more laid-back side.

Highlights include the massive Osaka Castle, the bustling Dotonbori district with neon signs, tasty takoyaki and okonomiyaki stands, and the interactive exhibits at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

Explore Osaka Castle and its surrounding park, or visit Universal Studios Japan for a day of fun.