After Tokyo, the second most prominent city of Japan is Osaka. The Osakan neighborhoods of Dotonbori and Shinsekai have a bustling, exotic vibe rarely matched elsewhere, while the streets surrounding Osaka Station present a more refined, polished aesthetic, allowing travelers to experience the many faces of Japan all in one city.
This article will provide a complete overview of Osaka’s cuisine, transport, seasonal sightseeing, activities, and more! If you’re planning to put Osaka on your Japan itinerary, this overview will ensure you experience everything the city has to offer!
Image: PIXTA
1. Quick facts about Osaka
Image: PIXTA
With a population of over 8 million, Osaka is the largest city in western Japan. It boasts a history reflecting the center of Japanese politics, finance, and culture. It has an abundance of perfectly preserved historic buildings and shrines/temples along with the World Heritage Site of the Mozu-Furuichi Kofungun Tombs.
Meanwhile, the Osaka of today is largely characterized by flashy downtown business facilities and rows of high-rise office buildings, all encompassed by a comprehensive transport network. And the Osaka City Metro subway lines make getting around a breeze.
Image: PIXTA
Of course, perhaps Osaka’s biggest claim to fame is the culinary culture, with its long-established nickname of “The World’s Kitchen” setting the stage.
Beginning in the 17th century, Osaka flourished as a center of trade for rice and regional delicacies, developing a culture based around well-priced, delicious food. This culture remains today, culminating in the cheap, flour-based fried dishes known as “konamon,” which includes the highly coveted takoyaki octopus balls and okonomiyaki pancakes.
2. When is the best time to visit Osaka?
Image: PIXTA
Each region on the main Japanese island of Honshu experiences the differences between spring, summer, autumn, and winter starkly. Osaka is no exception, with the typical pleasant springs and autumns along with humid summers and dry, cold winters. Spring and autumn are often considered the best times to visit Osaka.
However, the center of Honshu is generally more prone to sweltering summers and low rainfall throughout the entire year. Winter snow does not fall often, and even if it does, it will only pile up to a few centimeters.
Image: PIXTA
Spring: The Time of Cherry Blossoms!
Spring is the season to relish the beauty of cherry blossoms, and Osaka is the perfect place to do it!
One of the most famous locations is Osaka Castle Park, which boasts an incredible garden brimming with stunning cherry blossoms. Yo…
