Osaka

Osaka

Historically, Osaka was the capital of Japan. Today that title belongs to Tokyo – but Osaka remains the third largest Japanese city. When you’re not marvelling at the cherry blossoms surrounding Osaka Castle, or wandering the gardens of the centuries-old Sumiyoshi taisha, it’s easy to lose yourself in more modern pursuits, from shopping in Shinsaibashi to clubbing in Namba.

And that’s not forgetting Dotonbori, the heart of Osaka, which has enough flashing neon signs to rival Times Square or Piccadilly Circus.

Yet perhaps more than any other city in Japan, Osaka is a destination for food lovers. It’s called the kitchen of the nation, where the local attitude to dining is summed up by the concept of kuidaore which means 'to eat oneself bankrupt'.

Needless to say, people in Osaka appreciate a good meal and you’ll be spoilt for choice. Hole-in-the-wall street joints in particular are an essential part of the Osaka experience. You shouldn’t leave without trying the takoyaki (balls of flour filled with octopus) or okonomiyaki (a savoury pancake filled with veggies and meat) from one of the many street stalls.

Even more warm and inviting than its restaurants, though, are Osaka’s people. The city’s residents are famously hospitable, and even with a population of nearly three million, Osaka maintains the air of a friendly, small-town community. You’ll probably find the locals are happy to chat or offer travel tips.

Osaka Kansai International Airport is the primary international airport in the Greater Osaka Area of Japan and the closest international airport to the cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Things to do in Osaka

■ Relax in Mino Park
■ Unwind at Spa World
■ Take the children to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
■ Watch Hanshin Tigers at Koshien Stadium
■ Visit Osaka Castle
■ See Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Eat in Osaka

■ Zuboraya (Japanese)
■ Mizuno (Japanese)
■ Kuma Kafe (International)
■ Hajime (French-Japanese fusion)
■ Tenshige (Japanese)
■ Kuromon Ichiba (Street food)

Stay in Osaka

■ The St. Regis Osaka
■ Hotel Monterey Osaka
■ Cross Hotel
■ Carpe Diem
■ Swissotel Nankai Osaka
■ Osaka Hana Hostel