Ranked as the third biggest city in Japan, Osaka is not always people’s destination when planning a trip to Japan. Also, unlike Kyoto, Osaka is not a traditional city full of historical sites. Although it may not seem to be worthy of your time at first glance, there are tons of fun things to do in Osaka. Also, it stands out among all the other Japanese cities by its characters. People in Osaka are famous for being friendly and laid back. This city might be the best choice of your first stop in Japan and a perfect bridge between you and Japanese culture. Plan a trip with Acanela to explore this unique city.
1. Universal Studios Japan
How wonderful it is to see things familiar to you in a foreign country! Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is only 15 minutes away from Osaka downtown by Railway. Before fully immersing yourselves to Japanese culture, take your kids to USJ to experience the combination of Japanese tidiness, politeness, efficiency, and Universal Studios magic. A few sites you don’t want to miss out are Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, the Amazing Adventure of Spider-Man the Ride, Sesame’s Big Drive, etc. Also, to make the most of your time, you may want to buy an express pass in advance.
2. Dotonbori
If you could only visit one place in Osaka, you should visit Dotonbori, the heart of Osaka. Dotonbori is famous for its ever-glowing neon light, numberless street food, such as Okonomiyaki, and a relaxing atmosphere. One store you must visit is Don Quijote, one of the biggest discount shops in Japan. It is a grocery shop, but you can find literally everything in the shop, such as sushi, and ferries wheels. To get the most of your experiences, prepare yourself an empty stomach, a good camera, and visiting there after sunset.
3. Osaka Aquarium
Osaka Aquarium is one of the best aquaria in the world no matter you look at the design of the building from outside or take a closer look by walking inside the eight-story building. Its inside reflects the Japanese organized spirit, and its outside shows the creativity of the Japanese. It contains fifteen tanks, each representing an area in the Pacific Ocean. Also, it is designed in a way that you can observe various kinds of fish from all possible angles. The central tank the home to the whale shark, the attraction you don’t want to miss.
4. Shitennoji Temple and Gokuraku-jodo Garden
Shitennoji is the oldest Buddhist temple and the first temple built by the state. The temple has gone through almost 1500 history, surviving from wars. Although it was once burned and damaged, the Japanese always carefully rebuilt to preserve the original design. You may be able to see the footprint of reconstruction, but this will only add to the interests of comparing modern and traditional designs. Gokuraku-Jodo Garden is located only five minutes away. The design reflects the western paradise in Buddhist belief. Make sure to spend some time to experience Japanese reverent religious culture.
5. Osaka Castle (Osaka Jo)
In the middle of the bustling city, Osaka preserved a tranquil place for you to relax. If you love history and watch the exhibition, Osaka Castle is a good stop for you. It’s built in 1500 by the order of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. The building is like Shitennoji Temple, being rebuilt many times, but there are still sites considered history assists. You can pay about 600 yen to get in or just take a walk in the area. If you decide to get in, don’t miss out on the panoramic view on the 8th floor, which is many people’s favorite part of the Castle.
6. Minoo Park
Thirty minutes train away from downtown Osaka, Minoo Park is a place for you to totally get out of the crowd. Minoo Park is famous for its maple leaves. Unlike maple leaves in Canada, the maple leaves in Osaka has a delicate style unique to Japan. The best time to visit the park is November. You can see the color of fall and indulge yourselves in the flame of maple leaves. Besides viewing the scene, you may also want to take a bite of fried maple leaves sold by street vendors.
7. Sumo Spring Tournament
Are those things mentioned above sound like they’re lacking of excitement for you? Osaka won’t disappoint people who love enthusiasm like you. Every spring, the worldwide famous Japanese wrestling, sumo, will take place at Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium. This is also a good opportunity for you to find out what sports Japanese love and their special sports culture.
8. Tower of the Sun
Japan is a creative, organized, unified, and delicate country. However, the deeper you dive into its culture, you will find some really unseal stuff. Tower of the Sun is one of the minor ones. It is a 70-meter-high tower, erected in the middle of the park. The tower has three faces and a wing. Without explanation, most people are confused about this special look. It was built in the 1970s in honor of the famous World Expo that was held in Osaka.
Has your desire to explore Osaka increased? This seemingly ordinary city has a lot waiting for you to explore. Don’t hesitate to make a trip with Acanela and get a wonderful cultural trip to Japan.
Post written by Jack Chiu