Shop til you drop
If you have the money to blow, you really ought to go shopping here. It is definitely the next best thing to spend your cash on after the endless sightseeing, food trips and sauna baths. Osaka is a reputable ‘mercantile mecca’ of Japan. Hence, it does makes sense to relish on the city’s economic prowess via one of the shopping districts here. In case you are on a lookout for the trendiest fashion wears, you can head to the stores of Midosuji and Shinsaibashi. To shop for the latest electronics and gadgets, one must visit town is the Denden Town. However, if you are sucker for the hip vintage, the most ideal hub is the Amerikamura.
Famous modern landmark
Invariably, the most noticeable architectural wonder in the Osaka’s skyline is the arresting Umeda Sky Building. This mesmerizing piece of art by the renowned architect Hiroshi Hara is a result of the civic leaders in the 80s’ vision to come up with a ‘City of Air.’ As of today, it is occupied by the offices. It also has a grandiose “floating garden” observatory which is enveloped by the twin towers.
Japanese Puppet Theater
Osaka is a home to the original Japanese art of puppetry that has been around ever since the 1600s. This is the very reason why they have preserved the Bunraku which is the popular Japanese puppet theatre for centuries now. In this theatre, several shows are conducted which feature life like puppets and eerie which ought to blow your mind. One of the most renowned restaurants of Osaka, Cui daore also brought their very own doll outside the theatre in the scurry street of Dotonbori.
Rich history with a cheaper price tag
A trip to Japan can be really pricey especially if you wish to explore and experience the fascinating history of the city. Fortunately, there is also a preserved historical treasure in Osaka which can take you back to the Edo period for just $6.50. besides this, there is a vast array of places to see for all the history buffs. If you wish to splurge, do make a visit to the picturesque temples, shrines and castle parks.
Big city with a small-town vibe
Osaka is the biggest commercial center that has a population which is largely composed of the merchant class. However, despite being populous and busy, the city is able to embed and capture the country charm within the urban vibe. In Osaka, you can make a choice amidst the vibrant and vivacious nightlife of the Umeda district or compete with the pushy housewives’ in Namba during the bargains in the market. You can also relish on the sumptuous meal at one of the many ethnic restaurants in the entertainment districts. Also enjoy a fine dine experience at the traditional sushi joint in one of the secret corners of the city.
Osaka has a bevy of mouthwatering culinary goodies
The most quintessential reasons to fall in love with any city is the food it offers. Osaka’s rich cuisine lures all. It is often believed that the people who visit Osaka tend to spend more on the rich cuisine of Osaka than on anything else. The city’s reputation in the food scene can be traced back to the Edo Period (1600-1800) wherein the city gained the status of the rice-trade hub of Japan. Osaka also boasts of a variety of signature dishes that will let you eat until you drop. Do try out the egg balls with grilled octopus filling called Takoyaki, top selling meat dish or the pancake-like seafood called Okonomiyaki, deep fried tofu called Kitsune Udon, fried flour and the thick wheat-noodles with soup. In order to experience the best gastronomic experience, you can make a visit to the over crowded Dotonbori district near Namba station.
Korea is a heartbeat away
One most vital thing which makes Osaka the most ideal place for travellers is its easy access to the other beauty in the East – Korea. Only a ride away, the Korea Town is situated in the Tsuruhashi which is the working class district. Here you can shop for a slew of KPop memorabilia, ever famous Kimchi and the Korean fashion pieces.
People in Osaka
Last but obviously not the least, is the people of Osaka. People in this city of Japan are charming and very adorable. The city assures the travelers to enter and leave this magnificent city with a clamorous laugh just because it in the DNA of the locals here. Here the locals are known for being funny, brash and open with a dash of quirk. The city is a nice blend of Japanese modernity and the laid back old world charm. You can expect the same level of cultural flavour from Kyoto and citified energy from Tokyo, bereft the degree of crowd.