Osaka is one of the largest cities of the Keihanshin Metropolitan area as well as the largest metropolitan city in the world with an estimated population of 20 million inhabitants. This imperial city shares a colorful relationship with its culture and takes it seriously when we talk about age-old traditions, preserving its historic sites and offering testimonies about its authentic cuisines. Osaka is Japan's treasure trove, from being a shopper's paradise, excellent transports system, Bunraku -the puppet theatre, authentic seafood to finding historic museums is never a struggle when you are in Osaka.
This Edo period city is a must-visit destination and here are some amazing reasons as to why Osaka should be included in your bucket-list
A Shoppers Paradise
Osaka is a shopper's paradise!! Places like Amemura, Nakazakicho lives up to the hype of very shopaholic expectations. These trendy neighborhoods are lined up with some of the finest vintage shops, trendy restaurants, and bars which may be a struggle finding in other parts of Japan. The ever-changing neighborhoods of Denden town, Shinsaibashi shopping districts and trading reputation goes back to thousands of years. From cheap souvenir shops to duty-free goods Osaka's shopping districts like Tennoji and Namba is also another spot for budget-conscious shoppers.
Friendly Locals Everywhere
Osakans are famed for their funny and humorous nature. They love their city and welcome their visitors with open arms. Osakajins are upfront in their decisions, talkative and great comedians. If you are interested in digging deeper into their culture or have difficulty exploring the neighborhoods then talking to one of the locals is one of the best ways to get around Osaka.
Easy mode of transportation
Traveling is not a matter of concern in Osaka, it's fast and very affordable. Since the central area is straddled between Tennoji and Umeda, the pockets of the city are best explored on a bicycle, on foot, or through the subways. Day trips to Nara, Kobe, and Kyoto are very easy because the trains come and leave on time. All the cities are set apart by an hour ride and especially if you are located within the vicinity of downtown areas like Namba or Umeda you can get to Hiroshima within two hours train ride. Trains are fast, convenient, clean, equipped with the latest technology, and lives up the hype to every visitor's expectations.
Incredible Food Culture
Osaka's food culture comes to live with the age-old cuisines. Since the 18th century, Osaka has been often referred to as Japan's kitchen and it is no surprise. Some of Osaka's specialties include okonomiyaki, takoyaki, kushikastsu, yakisoba, etc. For some Osaka specialties like Takoyaki or grilled octopus with the batter head off to Dotonbori or Aizuya, for a feast on okonomiyaki-cabbage pancake head to Mizuno, for dips and skewers visit the Daruma restaurants. If you want to slurp a bowl of sweet- shoyu ramen head off to JinseiJet, Fukushima.
