Introduction to Osaka Prefecture
Osaka is located in the Kansai region, facing Osaka Bay in the southern part of the Kansai region. It is one of the largest cities in Japan and a fascinating tourist destination that combines history, culture, and entertainment. Osaka has a culture so different from that of Tokyo that even I, a resident of Japan, think of it as an exotic region. Takoyaki, in particular, is a must-try when you visit Osaka. Be careful not to eat it all at once, as it is very hot. Dotonbori is always full of people and is a very lively place. It is also easily accessible to Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Okayama, Hiroshima, etc. If you have enjoyed Tokyo, Osaka is the next place you should visit.
Geographic location
Osaka Prefecture is located in the southern part of Japan’s Kinki region, bordering Kyoto Prefecture to the north, Nara Prefecture to the east, Wakayama Prefecture to the south, and Hyogo Prefecture to the west. The center of the prefecture is the city of Osaka.
History & culture
Osaka has been a commercial center for over 400 years. The city is dotted with historical buildings and sites.
- City of merchants: The city has long flourished as a city of merchants, and a unique business culture has developed.
- The kitchen of the nation: During the Edo period (1603-1867), this area was called “the kitchen of the nation” where food from all over Japan gathered.
- Bunraku: A type of puppet theater, this is a traditional art form representative of Osaka.
- Kamigata Rakugo: Originating in Osaka, this form of rakugo is characterized by its lighthearted storytelling.
- Comedy: Osaka is the center of Japan’s laughter culture, including manzai and Yoshimoto Shinki Gekijou.
Tourist attraction
Osaka has many attractive tourist attractions.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle, the symbol of Osaka, is a beautiful castle and historical museum. Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle is a large castle rising in the midst of the city, and is an unforgettable sight to behold.
Tsutenkaku
Tsutenkaku Tower is located in the Shinsekai area and is one of the symbols of Osaka. You can experience the good old days of Osaka from the observatory.
Dotonbori
The Dotonbori Bridge area over the Dotonbori River is the center of shopping, dining and entertainment.
Universal Studios Japan
The park is a theme park and offers a variety of attractions.
Kaiyukan
It is one of the largest aquariums in the world, where you can see a variety of sea creatures.
Food culture
Osaka is also known as “kuidaore no machi,” or the town of the gourmets, and is a paradise of gastronomic delights. The word “kuidaore” means “to eat until one collapses because everything is so delicious,” and indeed, everything is delicious. There is no doubt that you will return home fat.
Okonomiyaki
Osaka is famous as the birthplace of okonomiyaki. Okonomiyaki is a Japanese soul food consisting of ingredients such as cabbage, pork, seafood, and noodles cooked on a griddle. In Osaka, you can enjoy the local flavor at many okonomiyaki restaurants.
Takoyaki
Takoyaki are small octopus balls wrapped in dough and baked into a ball shape, and are widely loved as Osaka street food. Takoyaki is topped with sauce and katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), making it a delicious light meal.
Box sushi
There is a style of sushi unique to Osaka called “box sushi. In this style of sushi, the ingredients are wrapped in vinegared rice and seasoned with a special sauce. There are many sushi restaurants in Osaka that specialize in box sushi.
Kushikatsu
In Osaka, many restaurants specialize in kushikatsu, fresh ingredients deep-fried and served with sauce. This is a crispy, enjoyable dish and is served at many yatai (street stalls) and eateries.
Ramen
Ramen culture has taken root in Osaka as well, and different styles of ramen can be enjoyed in different areas. In particular, Osaka ramen is not only delicious, but also visually appealing, with sophisticated ingredients and serving styles. Although some successful Osaka ramen restaurants have made their way to Tokyo, there are still many delicious ramen restaurants that can only be found in Osaka, so finding your favorite ramen restaurant will be the purpose of your trip.
Tempura
Many restaurants in Osaka serve fresh fish and vegetables as crispy tempura. This crispiness is the charm of Osaka’s tempura.
Activities
Osaka offers a wide variety of activities.
Dotonbori Gourmet Tour
This tour allows you to enjoy Osaka’s famous gourmet foods such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Tour of Osaka Castle Keep
Climb up to the Osaka Castle Keep, the symbol of Osaka, for a panoramic view of the city.
Universal Studios Japan
You can enjoy the world of Hollywood movies at this theme park in Osaka. External link: USJ official website
Kaiyukan Guided Tour
Visitors can take a guided, in-depth tour of Kaiyukan, one of the world’s largest aquariums.
Night view from Tsutenkaku Observation Deck
The night view of Osaka can be seen from Tsutenkaku Observatory.
Cruise on board
You can cruise on a boat on Osaka Bay and enjoy the scenery of Osaka.
Seasonal Recommendations
Osaka is a place where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery and seasonal events in each of the four seasons. Below are detailed descriptions of Osaka’s seasonal recommendations.
Spring (March to May)
Cherry tree
Spring is the season of cherry blossoms, and Osaka has many cherry blossom viewing spots. In particular, Osaka Castle Park, Suita Municipal Park in Suita City, and the rows of cherry trees in Expo ’70 Commemorative Park are places where beautiful cherry blossoms can be enjoyed. The illumination of the cherry blossoms at night is also attractive.
Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
This is an annual spring event where visitors can enjoy a fireworks display along with cherry blossoms. Held on the banks of the Yodogawa River, the beautiful fireworks display colors the night sky.
Summer (June to August)
Summer festival
Osaka hosts numerous summer festivals, including Bon dances at shrines and temples, food stalls, and fireworks displays. The “Tenjin Festival” and the “Tsurumigawa Fireworks Festival” are especially large-scale events.
marine athletics
How about marine activities during the hot summer? You can enjoy ocean athletics, electric surfing and SUP at Sennan Marble Beach.
Autumn (September to November)
Leaves changing color (colour)
In autumn, visitors can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage in parks and temples around Osaka. Especially worth visiting are Minoh Falls in Minoh City and Suita Falls in Suita City.
Rural festival
Harvest festivals and rural festivals are held in autumn in the rural areas of Osaka Prefecture, where visitors can enjoy fresh local produce and traditional festivals.
Winter (December to February)
Illumination
In winter, Osaka City, parks, and theme parks are decorated with beautiful illuminations. The “Hikari no Renaissance” at Osaka Castle Park and the Christmas illumination at Universal Studios Japan are especially popular.
Countdown Event
New Year’s Eve countdown events are held in Osaka on a grand scale. Large-scale events and countdown parties are held in various locations to celebrate the New Year.
Visitors can enjoy the charming events and scenery of each of Osaka’s four seasons. No matter what season you visit, there is an enjoyable experience awaiting you.
Local Culture
Osaka is bustling with traditional festivals and local culture.
Tenjin festival
Tenjin festival is one of the three major festivals in Japan and is characterized by the gorgeous boat procession that is typical of Osaka.
Kamigata Rakugo
Kamigata Rakugo is a form of rakugo that originated in Osaka and is a performance filled with laughter and humor.
Shinsekai area
Shinsekai area is a downtown area of Osaka where you can feel the local culture and festivals.
Transportation
There are a variety of ways to get to Osaka, which are described in more detail below.
Airplane
The fastest way to get to Osaka is by plane. Osaka has a major international airport, Kansai International Airport (KIX), located approximately 50 kilometers south of downtown Osaka. Kansai International Airport serves international flights from Asia and around the world, and also operates a number of domestic flights. From the airport to Osaka City, passengers can use JR and Nankai Electric Railway trains, buses, and cabs.
Shinkansen
Osaka is a major Shinkansen hub. It takes approximately 2.5 hours from Tokyo to Osaka via the Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi, Hikari, Sakura, etc.). Osaka Station is conveniently located within the city of Osaka.
JR Line
Many JR lines run through Osaka City, including the JR Osaka Loop Line, JR Osaka Line, and JR Hanwa Line. These lines provide access to Osaka City and surrounding areas.
Railway
Osaka is served by many private railways, including Hankyu Railways, Hanshin Railways, and Kintetsu Railways, which provide access to various parts of the city and beyond. They are especially convenient for access to Osaka City.
Subway
The Osaka Municipal Subway System is located in Osaka City and provides convenient access to the city’s major tourist attractions. We recommend using the subway to get around Osaka City efficiently.
Bus
Many bus routes operate within Osaka City and can be used as part of the public transportation system. There are also limousine buses that connect the airport to Osaka City.
Cab
Cabs are numerous in Osaka City and can be used to access tourist attractions and to get around the city. Cabs are convenient, but it should be noted that they are expensive.
Automobile
Major expressways pass through Osaka City, making it possible to access the city by private car. However, it is worth considering using public transportation, as traffic congestion is likely to occur in Osaka City.
Osaka has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, making it an accessible city for tourists. Before you visit, plan your access and choose the transportation options that will make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Lastly
Osaka is a city of culture and gastronomy, where you can enjoy the sights and local culture. We invite you to visit Osaka and enjoy the charm of Japan.