Osaka Japan

Image by jiquem

Osaka is one of the must see places in Japan on any trip. Osaka is famous for its relaxed down to earth people, sense of humour and great food. Osaka is a really attractive city with traditional buildings mixed in with modern architecture. Osaka really comes alive at night with flashing neon lights and street vendors.

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.


Osaka’s great location makes it a fantastic base to explore famous places like Kyoto, Nara and Kobe, which are all located close by.

The highlights of Osaka include:

Osaka-jo 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.

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

Umeda Sky Building – the city’s most iconic building and a dramatic piece of modern architecture, it features a rooftop observatory (The Floating Garden Observatory).

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

Shinsaibashi Shopping - Shinsaibashi Shopping Center is 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.

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

Shitennoji Temple - the first Buddhist temple constructed in Japan and founded in 593.

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

Okonomiyaki & Takoyaki – two must try local delicacies in Osaka are Okonomiyaki (Japanese savoury pancake) which is also known as "Osaka Soul Food" and Takoyaki (octopus balls) both are famous and popular street food originating in Osaka.

Osaka HDR night scene by chriscolumbres