Osaka

Osaka

  • Name: Osaka
  • Region: Kansai
  • Population: 2.5 million
  • Famous for: Fun loving People & Food
  • Must see sight: Osaka-jo Castle
  • Must try dish: Okonomiyaki & Takoyaki

Osaka is famous for its relaxed down to earth people, sense of humour and great food. It is a really attractive city with traditional buildings mixed in with modern architecture. Osaka is divided into two main areas Kita (North) and Minami (South). Kita is the city’s main business and administrative center and contains the JR Osaka Train Station. Minami is the city’s entertainment and shopping area. It contains entertainment and nightlife areas such as Namba and Shinsaibashi.

The must see places in Osaka include:

Dotonbori – The liveliest area of Osaka packed with restaurants and amazing night-life. Take a step into Blade Runner nightscapes and neon lights.

Osaka Aquarium – Also known as Kaiyukan, it is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Its theme is the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Osaka Castle – The city’s most popular tourist attraction and a recreation of a 17th century castle. It is easily located in the center of the city, and is one of the best places in Osaka to do hanami (cherry blossom viewing) during spring.

Namba – Osaka’s most famous entertainment district that is packed with restaurants and is great for shopping.

Shinsaibashi Shopping – The largest shopping area in Osaka which extends up to 580 meters in a north-south direction and approximately 180 stores including old-established shops, department stores, and those selling major brand products.

Shitennoji Temple – Founded in 593, it is the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan.

Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine – One of the oldest shrines in Japan, dedicated to the Shinto deities associated with the sea and sea travel.

Umeda Sky Building – A striking futuristic skyscraper which is a highlight of Osaka. The building is pierced by a large hole at one point.

Universal Studio Japan – Also known as USJ, is one of four Universal Studios theme parks in the world and modeled on the Universal Orlando resort. The park contains nine different themed areas.