Osaka, Japan
Population: 19.17 million
Osaka is located on the main island of Honshu, near the center of Japan. Osaka City, founded in 1889, has a population of 19.17 million, making it the 10th largest city in the world. It is Japan's second-largest metropolitan area after Tokyo. It has been the economic center of the Kansai Region for many centuries. Osaka was formerly known as Naniwa. Before the Nara period, Naniwa was the capital of Japan, the first city ever known.
Osaka is the tourist center of Japan allowing visitors to visit many famous destinations such as Kobe, Kyoto, Sakai, and Nara. There are many destinations not to be missed like visiting the northern Kita area for a great shopping experience in this commercial district, or crossing the Midōsuji (main street) for entertainment in the southern area, Minami. Especially, spring is a great time to visit the city and see the world-famous cherry blossoms.
Some tourist attractions in Osaka, Japan.
Starting at Kita, home to the underground National Museum of Art, to see a variety of post-World War II Japanese art and renowned international exhibitions. Right next door is the Osaka Science Museum, a tourist attraction for children with science shows held several times a day. Explore more family-friendly attractions in the Tennoji area. Choose from parks and zoos or the historic Shitennō-ji temple, one of the oldest in Japan despite being reconstructed many times. In the Bay Area, explore the Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. See 29,000 aquatic animals, including whale sharks. From the aquarium, it takes a 10-minute ferry ride to Universal Studios of Japan. Here, visitors can applaud their favorite movie characters with live performances, or enjoy mixed thrills with movie-themed slides. If you want some quiet time, admire the beauty of Osaka Castle, which started construction in 1583. After many reconstructions, the current castle was completed in 1931 with additional items. most recent in 1997.
Shopaholics will definitely want to spend time in the Minami area. There are countless retail stores that range from high-end to traditional local. Take a break from shopping by watching a show at Namba Grand Kagetsu, a Japanese comedy theater. No matter where you are in Osaka, don't forget to eat and drink. Renowned as “the taste of Osaka,” this local dish is made with fresh fish and light soy sauce that adds flavor to the local produce and offers a mouth-watering dish. You'll need to replenish your energy to experience all the local flair, indulgent shopping, and family entertainment that Osaka has to offer.
