This fortress is one of the most famous castles in all of Japan and played a very important role in unifying the country during the Azuchi-Momoyama period of the 16th century. In addition to walking through its beautiful gardens surrounded by canals, you can visit the interior of the castle, which has about eight levels and where there is a museum with interesting historical objects and the Toyokuni Altar, dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
This is one of the most lively and picturesque neighborhoods in all of Osaka, with a rare retro-futuristic look it is an area with many restaurants, bars and shops of all kinds, which are very striking for any visitor. The center of the neighborhood is its imposing Tsutenkaku tower, which is about 103 meters high and is a symbol of the city of Osaka.
Whether at the Kuromon market or at one of the street stalls in the center of Osaka, you cannot miss trying the popular takoyaki, the star dish of Japanese street food. These balls are made from wheat flour and octopus slices. They are served accompanied by a rich takoyaki sauce, which gives the dish its name and are decorated with Aonori seaweed and dried Katsuobushi flakes.
Only about 32 kilometers separate the city center of Osaka from the town of Nara, a journey that can be done in just 40 minutes by train. A small town surrounded by nature and temples, where you can get to know the authentic essence of Japan. Although undoubtedly one of the biggest attractions of Nara is its Sika Deer, which walk freely throughout the green area of the great Nara Park.
This avenue in the center of Osaka is famous for its bright and colorful neon signs, which have become the city’s definitive postcard for decades. Dōtonbori is also considered the gastronomic epicenter of Osaka, something very clear when we see the many restaurants, izakayas, cafes and street food stalls that take place here. All this in addition to its vibrant nightlife, which is reflected in the countless bars and nightclubs in the area.
If you’re already a bit cloaked in so much “traditional japan” and looking for a more western experience, a trip to Osaka Universal Studios will never hurt. An amusement park where you can enjoy attractions dedicated to the world of Harry Potter, Spider-Man, Jurassic Park, Shark, the friendly minions and other Hollywood hits, as well as an area dedicated to Nintendo and its most famous video games, such as the game itself. Mario.
