Planning a visit to Osaka Japan? Here are a few things to add to your bucket list while visiting Osaka, Japan.
Overview
Osaka is one of Japan’s main cities after Tokyo and is located on the island of Honshu. Unlike Kyoto, it does not have much spots or locations that are traditional or picturesque. However it is still worth a visit if you are planning a tour of Japan. Many Japanese locals will tell you that Osaka is one of the most laid-back cities in the country. While the Japanese people residing in this city are well known for their warm hospitality which is amazing. This gives the foreign nationals the chance to learn more about Japanese culture here.
Overall, if you are someone who enjoys food, Osaka is one of the best food scenes in all of Japan. Moreover, while on your visit to this city, you can explore museums, galleries, and amusement parks and so many more, for an unforgettable lifetime experience.
What are some things you can do, when in Osaka Japan?
Visit the Osaka-jo Castle
The Osaka Castle dates back to 1583 when it was first built by employing 100,000 workers to get the finished building. It was however, destroyed like many other castles in Japan and so the structure that stands now was actually built in 1931 which has also been renovated time and again over the years. This building is located in the middle of a leafy park and encircled by a charming moat.
Take a tour of Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum
For anyone who loves and have interest on art works, the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum is the one place where you can learn more about the Japanese traditional art and especially the art of Ukiyoe which is a kind of Japanese print. Here, the prints are made using blocks of wood and the museum itself is constructed and styled as a traditional Japanese house.
Explore the Sumiyoshi Shrine
Sumiyoshi Shrine is one of the oldest Shinto shrines not only in Osaka but also in wider Japan. This particular shrine was built over 1,800 years ago. It has ornate architecture and pretty design features with a bridge that stretches over a glassy pond. Hence, it is said to be one of the prettiest Shinto shrines of its kind.
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Check out the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
In this museum, there are numerous replicas of structures. These structures were said to have stood in Osaka in the Edo Period from the 17th to the 19th century. Therefore, this acts as the ideal place if you want to get a glimpse of how people would have lived in Osaka centuries ago. You can even get dressed in a traditional Japanese outfit like a kimono and walk around the museum complex. This gets you into the spirit of those bygone days.
Ascend the Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building is one of the major attractions in Osaka where you can see it from all over town. The building was constructed as high as a height of 173 meters and has an observatory facility which is located on the 39th floor also known as the Garden Observatory, making this one of the most famous floating gardens in Japan and therefore, while on your visit to this city, make sure to check out this hanging garden which is filled with local flowers and plants.
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Visit Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a well known place to visit if you want to go out and enjoy the best of the city. This part of Osaka features the central hub of bars, restaurants and cafes where you can come here in the evening to chill and enjoy the city of Osaka. Many of the cafes and restaurants located around here also have their own roof terraces, meaning that you can sit outside, refresh yourself, listen to some music and enjoy the observe the city.
Go shopping in Shinsaibashi
Shinsaibashi District is the best place to go shopping in Osaka as it sells pretty much anything and everything. This part of town is a collector of arcades. You will find items such as souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes and household objects. Therefore, if you want some gifts or mementos of your time in Osaka then this is the perfect place to visit to get the required stuffs.
Try the local food
A visit to any parts of Japan will not be complete without indulging in their local delicacies and food, right? As Osaka is known as a paradise for all foodies, in Japan. If you like to eat and is a foodie yourself, then you have to try out the local authentic cuisine while on a visit here.
Some of the highlights here include:
- Okonomiyaki which is a kind of pancake made from shredded cabbage and loaded with a range of toppings and
- Battera, a type of sushi featuring mackerel and is compressed with rice in a wooden box
- The kushikatsu which consists of skewers featuring different ingredients such as meat and vegetables which have been deep fried in breadcrumbs.
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Make a pot at Maishima Pottery Museum
The Maishima Pottery Museum is part of the Bay Area of Osaka. It is located on a manmade island and was built in the year 1998. The objective of this museum is to use the marine clay that lies in the waters around Osaka. You can come here and try to make your own pot using a potter’s wheel. The Island also features galleries where a range of pottery pieces are displayed. [s]
Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel
The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is one of the most iconic and popular sight in Osaka. It is located on the edge of the scenic Osaka Bay. As the wheel is illuminated at night, it becomes so beautiful making it for a fun ride. Therefore, this is another must do when on a visit in this City. And while doing so, if possible try to come here in the evening. The views is much more spectacular with all the lights decorated around the Ferris wheel. [s]
Tour Peace Osaka
The Tour Peace Osaka was introduced to educate and make the visitors learn more about the importance of peace and war. This program was also created as a tribute to all those brave souls who lost their lives in wars.
Bottom Line
To conclude with, this is not the end of the list, in fact, a list will not even be enough to describe the things you need and have to do while on your visit to Osaka or Japan in general. As it is a well known fact, this country holds amongst one of the top position of a must visit country due to its technologically advanced economy and the beautiful landscapes and facilities that are available and accessible only in this country. So the next time you are planning for a holiday, you should definitely add Osaka or any other cities in Japan on your list to gain a fruitful once in a lifetime experiences where only this particular country can offer you.
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