Osaka

Osaka, Japan's third-largest city, is known for its lively atmosphere and flavorful cuisine. This metropolis invites you to walk its neon-lit streets, taste its mouthwatering street food, and experience its culture. You can visit the towering Osaka Castle, explore the busy Dotonbori district, or enjoy the company of Osaka's friendly locals in a city that comes alive after dark.

Exploring Osaka's Well-Known Landmarks

Osaka Castle is a 16th-century fortress, surrounded by large grounds and cherry blossom trees. You can see the city from its top floor. For a more modern view, go to the Umeda Sky Building and look out from its Floating Garden Observatory. The active Dotonbori district is known for its bright neon signs, busy streets, and the Glico Running Man billboard.

Tasting Osaka's Local Cuisine

Osaka is often called "Japan's kitchen." You can try many local dishes here. Sample okonomiyaki, a savory pancake with various ingredients, or takoyaki, octopus-filled balls of batter. For a different eating experience, visit Kuromon Ichiba Market to taste fresh seafood and local produce. Don't miss Osaka's kushikatsu – deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables.

Using Osaka's Transportation System

It's easy to get around Osaka using public transportation. The subway connects most major sites, while the JR Osaka Loop Line circles the city center. For longer trips, the shinkansen (bullet train) quickly connects to other major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. You might want to buy an Osaka Amazing Pass for unlimited public transportation use and free entry to many sites.

Joining Osaka's Festivals

Osaka has many festivals throughout the year. The Tenjin Matsuri in July is one of Japan's biggest, with a boat procession and fireworks display. In October, the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri excites crowds with fast-paced, wooden float races through the streets. In December, you can see the Osaka Hikari Renaissance, when the city is lit up with many light displays.

Exploring Beyond Osaka

Osaka is a good starting point for visiting the Kansai region. Take a day trip to Kyoto, just a 30-minute train ride away, to see its many temples and shrines. If you like nature, go to Minoo Park on the outskirts of Osaka for a calm hike through forests to a waterfall. To see modern Japan, visit Kobe, known for its international atmosphere and beef.

Finding Osaka's Shopping Areas

Osaka has many shopping areas for different tastes. The Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street is 600 meters long, with both high-end boutiques and affordable fashion. For electronics and pop culture items, go to Den Den Town. If you want traditional items, visit the shopping streets of Tenjinbashi-suji, the longest covered shopping street in Japan.

Experiencing Osaka's Culture

Watch traditional Japanese puppet performances at the National Bunraku Theater. To learn about Osaka's history, visit the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, which shows what an Osaka neighborhood looked like during the Edo period. If you like art, check out the National Museum of Art, Osaka, which shows both Japanese and international contemporary art.