As I peered out the window from my vantage point on the 21st floor of the Sakai City Hall, in the distance I could see Abeno Harukas — Japan's tallest skyscraper, which houses a train station, hotel, museum, department store and offices. But this modern curiosity was not what I was looking for....
How World's Fairs Have Shaped The History Of Architecture
The Kii Peninsula in Japan is close to some of the biggest tourist attractions in Japan (Osaka, Kyoto) but is remarkably untouristy. It’s easy to get to and includes some of the most historic and cultural historic sites of Japan, including UNESCO World Heritage areas.
For centuries, Osaka Bay has been the Gateway to Japan. Now it has become one of the most interesting areas for tourists to discover.
Highway through Building Japan
Ask a local where the best place is for autumn colour in Osaka and you're likely to hear 'Minoo Park'. It's a short train ride from the city into the suburbs but well worth it for a nature escape and some of the best leaf colour around. While the area is really popular with locals it's a little off the tourist trail so it makes a welcome respite from the busy city.
Osaka is a must see destination but what is there to do? Check out our best places to go in Osaka including some lesser known gems.
Osaka has a number of child-friendly spots and attractions for family vacations that shouldn't be overlooked, such as Osaka Castle and Universal Studios Japan.
See Also: Where to stay in Osaka
Image 8 of 10 from gallery of Namba Parks / The Jerde Partnership.
The BEST food in Osaka! Everything from the best Osaka restaurants, local specialty foods of Osaka, and Osaka food tours! Where to find the best Takoyaki in Osaka, the best ramen, and Osaka cheap eats. Where to go in the famous Dotonbori area, what Osaka street food to eat at Kuromon Ichiba Market.
There are so many things that you could do in Osaka. Visit the aquarium, hop on a ferris wheel, eat some delicious sushi... The options are endless.
Castles in Osaka, when one thinks of Japan, images of ancient castles shrouded in history and mystique often come to mind.
While Tokyo resides on the tip of tourist tongues, those who are culinarily inclined have discovered that Osaka is the true palette pleaser. Perfectly situated near continental Asia, what was once Ancient Japan's capital quickly industrialized, culminating into a culture rich with art, entertainment, history, and language. Osakans are known for their combination of warmth, humor, straight-forwardness, and colorful phrases from their dialect, Kansai-ben (関西弁). Considering that the phrase Kuidaore (食い倒れ, eat until you drop) is its motto (as well as mine), it's no wonder that this city is home to an array of iconic gourmet foods that are synonymous with Japanese history and culture. Without further ado, I'd like to present five of the most praised dishes Osaka has perfected as well as the best restaurants at which to enjoy them. 1. Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き) Freshly grilled okonomiyaki on teppanyaki There’s no other way to introduce Osaka cuisine than with a personal favorite: Okonomiyaki. Meaning “grilled as you like”, this dish has expanded far beyond its humble Osaka beginnings and become a staple in Japanese cuisine. This tasty pancake has a savory base of flour, dashi (fish stock), shredded cabbage, nagaimo (yam), and eggs. It is then further elevated by an array of ingredients: green onion, meat, octopus, squid, shrimp, and/or vegetables. The only thing that keeps me from devouring it at once is the lively, hypnotic dance of bonito flakes. The light texture from the omelette base paired with the rich flavor from the extra ingredients deliver a delicious dichotomy to diners. top spot: Houzenji Sanpei Located in a quaint alley, Houzenji Sanpei is considered to be a must-go by locals and foodies alike. Patrons are provided with casual, friendly service and offered a front-seat view of the chef as he stands above the teppanyaki (grill). Reservations aren’t necessary for this small gem but recommended for those who simply can’t wait. (Houzenji Sanpei - 1 Chome-7-10 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0071, Japan) 2. Udon (うどん) Steaming bowl of shrimp tempura udon We all find ourselves in need of comfort, especially in the form of food. I find the most fulfilling dish is none other than udon. Osaka is considered to house the most comforting udon bowls, wrapping their diners in warmth. Udon itself is a thickly cut noodle most often served as a hot noodle soup with shrimp tempura, kakiage (mixed tempura fritter), aburaage (deep-fried tofu) and kamaboko (fish cake) as common toppings. Steaming with savory aromatics, udon fills diners full to the to brim with flavor and feeling. top spot: Umeda Hagakure The highly acclaimed Umeda Hagakure is nestled cozily within Osaka Station, often difficult to find. Customers don’t mind, especially after delving deep into the luscious broths and excitedly slurping the handcrafted noodles. Umeda Hagakure’s signature noodles are known for their finely balanced texture and ample chew. Despite the meticulous precision, the chef presents customers with a relaxed, entertaining presentation on proper dining etiquette. (Umeda Hakagure - Osaka station 3 building, 1 Chome-1-3 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0001, Japan) 3. Kushikatsu (串カツ) Assortment of kushikatsu Deep-fried food is a delight from fairs and festivals to fine dining and stomachs worldwide. It takes shape in foods from deep-fried Oreos to deep-fried Coca-Cola, but it’s Osaka where we find it in the form of kushikatsu. Meaning “deep-fried meat and vegetables”, kushikatsu is a must-eat for travelers and foodies. Areas such as Tsutenkaku are famous for having a myriad of vendors, offering an even larger variety of kushikatsu: beef, pork, chicken, mackerel, shrimp, scallop, squid, broccoli, mushroom, pumpkin, sweet potato are just a fraction of the list. The crisp crunch as you take a bite into the freshly fried panko (breadcrumbs) is music to the ears. top spot Kushikatsu Daruma Tsutenkaku is unarguably the best area to get kushikatsu. However, it’s Kushikatsu Daruma and their multiple locations that’s claimed the hearts of locals, foodies, and travelers alike. Known for their beloved grimacing chef mascot, this chain has been serving satisfaction since 1929. Their batter is said to have the perfect crunch, which is exactly what I like to hear. (Kushikatsu Daruma - 1 Chome-6-8 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 556-0002, Japan) 4. Butaman (豚まん) Pork and onion-filled butaman When craving a nice set of buns (I just had to), butaman hits the spot precisely. Also known as nikuman, this classic dish has become an Osakan treasure. Ground pork and fresh vegetables encased in a thick, yet fluffy dough are steamed to perfection. While it’s tempting to eat one in its entirety, many find gratification in taking at least one bite. Chomping down to reveal a juicy, delicious filling. top spot: 551 Horai Want some buns? 551 Horai has got ‘em hun (it had to be done). Selling over 110,000 butaman per day, 551 Horai is known for their finely crafted dough. Perfectly fluffed with virtually no air-space, Horai buns leave patrons with a hearty, satisfying filling of tender pork and minced onion. Enjoy two for only ￥320 (~$3 USD) and take in the beautiful sights with the Dotonbori River just blocks away. (551 Horai - 3 Chome-6-3 Nanba, Chūō-ku, Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu 542-0076, Japan) 5. Takoyaki (たこ焼) Freshly baked takoyaki with mayonnaise and bonito flakes Last but certainly never least, is another personal favorite: takoyaki. Simply made with flour, dashi, eggs, and bite-sized octopus, and possibly drool (due to mouth watering). The batter bakes into a savory dough that melts in the mouth while the octopus gives great chew and texture. Like okonomiyaki, takoyaki finds its origin in Osaka when it was created by Tomekichi Endo in 1935. Since then it’s journeyed across the nation, available in convenience stores, street vendors, and fine dining. top spot: Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae Much like kushikatsu, takoyaki finds itself in a vast amount of locations, but it’s Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae that hits the octopus ball right out of the park. As a bonus, this satisfying shop is situated just around the corner from 551 Horai. Quick, efficient service provides customers the ability to pick up their order with ease and chew their day away. (Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae - Japan, 〒542-0075 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nanbasennichimae, 11-19, Japan) Night Out in Osaka As the sun sets, Osaka comes alive with neon lights, street food delights, and a palpable buzz—it’s the perfect place to celebrate Bokksu’s sixth birthday. Join us on a night out in this vibrant city as we sink our teeth into snacks made in Osaka, inspired by Osaka’s street food staples, and sweets that are worthy of any birthday blow-out!
Until 1868, Japan shut itself off from the rest of the world, but over the course of the next 70 years, the country went from an underdeveloped nation to an industrial and military powerhouse. Test your knowledge on Japan's growth and the people who made it possible.
Hiroshima is a beautiful city, packed with cultural things to do: visit the Peace Park, explore Miyajima Island, and catch a Hiroshima Carp baseball game!
Over a long holiday weekend, my friends and I visited Osaka and Kobe Japan for a total of 5 days - the perfect amount of time to visit these cities!
Explore Amerikamura, the America Town of Osaka, to find vintage shops, a strong youth culture and some great food.
Topoguide (en anglais) de l'éditeur Cicerone qui couvre la péninsule de Kii au sud d'Osaka. Description fournie par l'éditeur : Guidebook to Japan's Kumano Kodo, a series of UNESCO-listed pilgrimage routes that crisscross the mountainous Kii peninsula, south of Osaka. Centred on three Shinto-Buddhist shrines known as the Kumano Sanzan, the ancient trails blend great hiking and exceptional natural beauty with a unique insight into Japan's rich history, culture and spirituality. The guide covers the 64km Nakahechi and 63km Kohechi trails in full, as well as the Choishimichi route to Koyasan (20km), the Hongu loop (17km) and highlights of the Iseji trail. It can be used to plan and undertake an independent trek or to enrich an organised tour. Clear route description and mapping is accompanied by comprehensive details of accommodation and facilities, as well as notes on local points of interest and inspirational colour photography. You'll find a wealth of practical information to help with planning, covering transport, climate, accommodation, budgeting, equipment and safety, as well as fascinating background information on history, religion and wildlife. There is also a Japanese glossary and helpful advice on Japanese customs and etiquette. The Kumano Kodo offers a different view of Japan: far removed from the modern cities, this is a world of forested slopes, hidden valleys, waterfalls, traditional villages, moss-covered stone deities and tranquil oji shrines. There are opportunities to experience hot-spring bathing and to sample local cuisine as you follow in the footsteps of emperors, samurai, priests and ascetics traversing traditional flagstone paths and forest trails.
Best things to do in Osaka · 1) Osaka Castle · 2) Universal Studios Japan · 3) Dotonbori · 4) Kaiyukan Aquarium · 5) Shinsekai ...
My visit to the beautiful Mount Koya in Japan was a catalogue of errors. I present them to you here so that you might learn from my mistakes...
Japan's first automaton went missing, only to be revived by the Osaka Science Museum.
Many things can shape a city—its culture, history, social life, or food scene. But perhaps the most distinctive feature would be architecture. Some buildings can completely fascinate you with their astonishing design and pure aesthetics. Through careful urban planning and understanding of the cultural background, the structure of a city can carry you through time while still leaving you in a very particular place.
If you're short on time, this 7-day Osaka itinerary will take you through the Kansai region of Japan, including day trips to Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima.
Our starting point in Japan was the awesome city of Osaka. For me its a mystery why not many tourists are very fond of Osaka, because we absolutely loved it there. We've spent 12 whole days in Osaka, the most time we spent in one place in Japan. Osaka is a city with lots of fun
Join me on an immersive journey Through Japan's Rich History as we explore treasures inside Osaka castle, and explore the tranquil gardens
Parma, balsamic vinegar and parmigiano reggiano - click through for the best food tours in Parma to learn about these iconic Italian foods.
Fraenkel Gallery is pleased to announce the exhibition Hiroshi Sugimoto: Portraits. This new body of work, which will be seen in its entirety at the Guggenheim Museum, New York later this year, significantly enlarges Sugimoto’s investigation into the nature of time and photography. Hiroshi Sugimoto: Portraits is comprised of depictions of historic and contemporary figures, […]
Some years ago a sassy Osaka lady asked me to introduce her to the pleasures of Western literature. I duly handed her a variety of classic books, including 'The Turn of the Screw,' 'Heart of Darkness,' 'Lolita' and 'A Study in Scarlet.' They were all methodically if unenthusiastically read, but when...
Umekita Ship Hall, Grand Front Osaka, Japan Original image by : Ken Lee Church image by : Leva Ayvaz below you may see the original image
Osaka may not be as famous for its temples and shrines as Kyoto, but Sumiyoshi Taisha is definitely worth visiting for its special architectural styles and cultural aspects. Sumiyoshi Taisha is an active place of worship where Japanese people come to perform various Shinto rituals, not a tourist-oriented shrine.
Our starting point in Japan was the awesome city of Osaka. For me its a mystery why not many tourists are very fond of Osaka, because we absolutely loved it there. We've spent 12 whole days in Osaka, the most time we spent in one place in Japan. Osaka is a city with lots of fun
Join me on an immersive journey Through Japan's Rich History as we explore treasures inside Osaka castle, and explore the tranquil gardens
Delve into the heart of Osaka with this Self-Guided Audio Tour, perfect for history buffs and urban explorers alike. Led by an audio guide packed with two decades of knowledge, this adventure is a blend of past and present, tailored to give an in-depth perspective of Japan's third-largest city. The walking journey kicks off at the formidable Osaka Castle, weaving through to the futuristic Umeda Sky Building. Along the way, marvel at landmarks like the vibrant Tsutenkaku Tower and the bustling Dotonbori Bridge. The route is dotted with historical footprints such as Tenma Bridge and the Osaka City Central Public Hall, allowing for a pathway rich in cultural heritage. On this trip, travelers will gaze at ancient architecture, absorb the electric atmosphere of shopping streets, and bask in the serene beauty of Osaka's riversides. Cherish the sights, the sounds, and the stories that make Osaka an unforgettable encounter with the pulse of Japan.
