Osaka: the ancient Japanese capital perfect for gourmets and more
Osaka is a true magnet for delicacy lovers, famous for its gourmet dishes and best restaurants in whole of Japan. Although Osaka may look highly modern, the city is warm and welcoming, rated as one of the safest in the world. The old capital city will offer everyone some much needed relaxation and pleasant moments to remember. If your dream is to travel to Japan, Osaka is a perfect starting point.
How to travel?
Osaka is best reached by boarding a plane and landing in Osaka or Kansai airports. If you’re interested in cheap flights the most, the best time for ticket hunt is either the end of May or the beginning of September. Flights will cost doubly less if you just pre-order your tickets beforehand or choose a flight with more plane changes.
In Osaka, trains are the best and cheapest means of travel. Pricier train trips mean that they are also much faster. Some of the more peaceful locations are probably better reached by other means of public transport, by taking a taxi or renting a bike.
What to taste?
Local Osaka cuisine brings much happiness to all the world’s gourmet food lovers. While visiting, we recommend trying out the unique tasting octopus in fired batter, takoyaki. Interesting fact about this dish is that it is served with American BBQ sauce, and this combination is said to be great-tasting. When hungry, try some other national delicacies as well, such as savoury pancake with cabbage (okonomiyaki), different flavour skewered meat and vegetables (kushikatsu) and highly beloved sushi.
What to see?
After arriving to Osaka, we recommend getting to the top of the Umeda Sky skyscraper and visiting its “Floating Garden” observatory that offers an astounding 173 metre high panoramic view of Osaka.
Osaka castle should also leave a strong impression on you, as it is a truly great example of traditional Japanese architecture, adorned with subtle golden details. Even more architectural beauty can be observed by paying a visit to Temmangu, Shitennoji, and Sumiyoshi taisha Shinto Shrines.
Visit the National Museum of Art and you will be able to see more than 5 000 pieces of art. Among them you’ll find the art of Pablo Picasso, Paul Cezanne, and other masters. If you’re interested in science and astronomy, pay a visit to the Science Museum, where you will find the fifth biggest world’s planetarium and will be able to conduct your own science experiments.
What to do?
Osaka is famous for its Kabuki theatre and Bunraku puppet plays. Therefore, don’t waste an opportunity to experience live Japanese theatre.
Japanese people are very friendly and talkative, even with strangers. If such a wish arises, feel free to enter any tavern, club or bar, and you will be welcomed as an old friend.
