Osaka is a fun, friendly city famous for its food, shopping, and nightlife, and rich in history, culture, and retro charm. Osaka is an ideal hub for exploring the Kansai region. It is just over two hours from Tokyo on the Shinkansen bullet train and is convenient to Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima. From the thrilling rides at Universal Studios Japan (USJ), to the colorful neon lights and nightlife around Dotombori, to the historical attractions of Osaka Castle and its beautiful parks and Shitennoji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Japan, there is much to see and do. While strolling around, fill up on some of Osaka's famous street food stalls, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu (skewered pork cutlets). How to get there
From Tokyo, you can take the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkan Line to Shin-Osaka Station (about 2.5 hours). From Shin-Osaka Station, you can transfer to a regular JR train to get to Osaka Station. From Kansai International Airport (KIX), you can take the Nankai Railway or JR line to Tennoji or Namba Stations.
Osaka is an ideal base for exploring the Kansai region, including Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Wakayama. Each of these areas is an hour's train ride from Osaka's central transportation hubs (Osaka Station in the north and Namba and Tennoji Stations in the south). Kansai International Airport (KIX) is comparable in size to Tokyo's Narita Airport and is served by all major airlines, with many direct flights to and from major cities in the US, Europe, and Australia.
can't be allowed to pass (without comment)
Dotonbori Bridge and the neon lights of Osaka Minami
Explore Expo '70 Commemorative Park and Osaka Castle Park, the site of the World Exposition
Seasonal festivals such as the colorful Tenjin Festival and the elaborate floats of the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival
Stroll through narrow alleys lined with casual restaurants in the Tenma and Ura-Namba neighborhoods
specialty
revitalization of sweetened rice-bran paste (esp. as an outgrowth of miso preparation)
Iwaokoshi is a sugar candy made from millet, and has been produced in Osaka since 1185. 8 centuries old cereal bar.
savoury pancake with various ingredients
Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made by mixing finely chopped cabbage, flour, eggs, and broth. There are two styles of okonomiyaki: one is cooked at the table and the other is self-prepared. Making your own is much more enjoyable. Its menu of toppings and combinations is extensive, with pork, shrimp, octopus, and cheese being the most common.
octopus dumplings
Octopus fillets, red ginger, and green onions are mixed into the batter and baked in a special mold. The resulting balls are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Topped with Worcestershire sauce, ginger, and nori seaweed, this is a classic Osaka dish.
Osaka Kongo Noren
Bamboo bamboo screens have existed since the Heian period (794-1185) and were used in the imperial palace and residences of nobles. The elegant Osaka Kongo bamboo blinds are finely crafted from high-quality bamboo from Mount Kongo and have a uniquely Japanese beauty and elegance.
Sakai Uchihamono
Sakai Uchihamono are forged blades from Sakai and Osaka. Made using traditional forging techniques, these blades are highly regarded for their strength and edge shape.
Seasonal Attractions
春
Osaka's parks and main streets are filled with a sea of pink, and the city comes alive with cherry blossoms at Osaka Castle, Yodogawa River Park, and the Osaka Mint.
夏
The festive spirit and outdoor amusements make one forget the stifling heat. Osaka's most famous festival, Tenjin Matsuri, attracts large crowds, and the seaside areas of southern Osaka also come alive with activity. Many fireworks displays are held to brighten the night sky.
秋
As the summer humidity drops, the leaves turn a fiery red, allowing people to enjoy outdoor activities in the midst of the spectacular scenery. The Midosuji Parade brings marching bands to Osaka's main street for a lively parade.
冬
Holiday illuminations will illuminate the city center, and year-end events will be in full swing. Runners from all over the world will participate in the Osaka International Women's Marathon.