Hello, travel lovers! If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you can’t miss the vibrant and delicious city of Osaka. Osaka is a culinary paradise, often referred to as the kitchen of Japan, and home to thrilling attractions like Universal Studios Japan (USJ). Are you ready to immerse yourself in the city’s charms with me? This article will help you prepare for your trip to Osaka perfectly!
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🍜 What’s so great about Osaka? 3 things you can’t miss!
Osaka is more than just a place with lots of sights to see. Let’s take a look at what makes this city so special.
- Foodie Mecca: Osaka is a city of gourmet food, so much so that the phrase “guidaore” (食い倒れ, to eat and collapse) is a common phrase. From Osaka’s signature soul food, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, to fine Japanese cuisine, you’ll never run out of things to satisfy your taste buds.
- A blend of old and new: The city’s unique atmosphere is created by the coexistence of vestiges of history like Osaka Castle and modern, vibrant commercial districts like Dotonbori and Umeda.
- Friendly and lively atmosphere: The vibrant energy of Osaka’s friendly and jovial people is evident everywhere, a far cry from Tokyo. You’ll quickly warm up to them, even if you’re a stranger.
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📍 Top 5 must-visit places in Osaka!
If you don’t know where to start, these five places are a must-visit!
- Dotonbori: The heart of Osaka, home to colorful neon signs and glico uncle signs. This neighborhood comes alive at night, and you can soak up the energy of Osaka and try some street food.
- Universal Studios Japan (USJ): This park is filled with themed attractions and shows, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World. There’s something for everyone, young and old.
- Osaka Castle: Osaka Castle is a symbol of Osaka and one of Japan’s historic structures. The park surrounding the castle is beautiful in all seasons, especially during cherry blossom season. Climb the castle tower for a bird’s eye view of Osaka city.
- Shinsekai: This neighborhood is full of retro flair! Centered around the Tsutenkaku Tower, this area is lined with old shops and restaurants that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s also home to kushikatsu.
- Umeda: A paradise for shopping and nightlife! Osaka’s largest downtown area is home to department stores, shopping malls, and restaurants. The night view of Osaka from the public garden of the Umeda Sky Building is unforgettable.
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😋 A must-do when you come to Osaka!
This is a list of things you must eat when you come to Osaka. Enjoy delicious Osaka food to your heart’s content!
- Takoyaki: This street food consists of octopus and flour dough baked in a circle and sprinkled with special sauce and katsuobushi. Take a bite while it’s still hot and you’ll feel the essence of the crust.
- Okonomiyaki & Yakisoba: Okonomiyaki, Japanese pancakes mixed with a variety of ingredients and fried on an iron plate, and yakisoba, noodles and vegetables fried on an iron plate and topped with a sauce, make for a hearty meal.
- Kushikatsu: This Osaka specialty consists of skewered ingredients deep-fried. The combination of crispy tempura batter and fresh ingredients is a great combination. Tip: The sauce should only be dipped “once”!** Multiple dips are prohibited for hygiene reasons.
- **Gyukatsu: Beef cutlets fried crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. A little extra grilling on a mini brazier brings out the flavor even more.
- Doteyaki: A local Osaka dish of beef tendon simmered in miso (miso paste). It’s great as an appetizer with sake or served with rice.
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🚇 Transportation Tips: This is how to get around Osaka!
Osaka has a very well organized public transportation system, and even if it seems complicated, you’ll get the hang of it after a few rides.
- Subway & JR: This is the most efficient way to get around Osaka city. The subway connects most of the major tourist attractions, while the JR is useful for traveling to the suburbs or other cities.
- IC cards (ICOCA/Suica, etc.): These are rechargeable transportation cards, similar to T-money in South Korea. You can buy it at the station, top it up, and use it without the hassle of buying a ticket every time.
- Osaka Amazing Pass: This pass gives you unlimited rides on Osaka’s subway and trams and free admission to over 40 sightseeing spots. A must-have if you plan to visit multiple places in one day!
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🏨 Where to stay in Osaka: Where to stay?
It’s important to decide where to stay based on the purpose of your trip.
- Namba/Dotonbori: This is the most recommended neighborhood if you’re new to Osaka. It’s lively until late at night, has a great food scene, and easy access to major sightseeing spots.
- Umeda: The center of shopping and business. Connected to Osaka Station, it offers easy access to neighboring cities such as Kyoto and Kobe, and has many luxury hotels.
- Shin-Osaka: This neighborhood has a Shinkansen station, making it ideal for travelers who want to get to other cities. However, it is a bit far from the city center.
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💡 Traveling Tips!
Finally, some practical tips to make your trip to Osaka even more enjoyable.
- Money: Japan is still very much a cash country, and while major stores accept cards, many smaller restaurants and shops will require cash, so it’s a good idea to bring some extra.
- Language: Simple English will get you by, but a translation app like Papago will come in handy. It’s also a good idea to know basic Japanese greetings (hello, thank you, etc.).
- Pocket wifi/local cell phone: Internet access is a must, so we recommend renting a pocket wifi in advance or purchasing a local cell phone in Korea.
- Comfortable shoes: Osaka is a very walkable city. Be sure to bring a pair of shoes that are comfortable enough to walk around in all day.
- Public transportation etiquette: In Japan, it is polite to be quiet when using public transportation. Please refrain from talking or talking loudly.
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✈️ Osaka, let’s go!
Osaka is more than just a travel destination, it’s a place that will delight your senses and give you unforgettable memories. With delicious food, interesting sights, and a vibrant atmosphere, you’ll never be bored.
We hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Osaka, so why not find your plane tickets to Osaka today? We wish you many wonderful memories in this vibrant city!
**Have a great trip to Osaka!