Whether you’re looking for an adventure or you simply love to visit new places, Osaka is one city that should be at the top of your list. While most people would pick Europe as their destination of choice, Japan is just as beautiful and lovely. Plus, you’ll have no issue finding a comfortable place to rest your head each night, with all of the easily accessible Osaka hotels that are available.
Image via Flickr by Pedro Szekely
Here are the top five things to add to your Osaka itinerary:
1. Dotonbori
Dubbed as the Times Square of Japan, Dotonbori has a string of restaurants that you will love having the opportunity to try. Being a stranger in a foreign land is not easy, so it would be best to plan out where you’d like to eat ahead of time. This is one stop you’ll want to put at the top of your list.
2. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
This aquarium houses many species of ocean life from the Pacific Ocean. The site is extensive, taking a circular path that provides stunning, up-close views of whale sharks and other magnificent creatures of the deep.
3. Tempozan Ferris Wheel
See all of Osaka at the top of the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. Riding this will really take your appreciation of Japan to new heights. From 112 meters up, the Tempozan has an amazing view of the suspension bridge and the Osaka Bay. The best time to try ride the ferris wheel is at dusk so you can experience the sunset while waiting for the city lights to come on. There is also an option to ride in a glass bottom carriage that will make you feel like you’re floating on air, but the line for this can run pretty long. You should opt for the traditional carriage if you want to avoid a wait.
4. Osaka Full-Day Tour with River Cruise
This tour is a six-hour guided experience that includes lunch and a river cruise. You’ll see Osaka’s most Instagram-worthy landmarks, including the Floating Garden Observatory and the Osaka Castle. You’ll also get a chance to visit the Twin Towers City Hall. Luckily, the package includes entrance fees for all of the stops on the tour.
5. National Bunraku Theater
To get a real feel for Japan’s culture, check out the Bunraku Theater. It traces its roots back to the 18th to 19th centuries, and it’s amazing how Osaka has been able to maintain the art. It also houses surprisingly large puppets that are half the size of an average human. If you choose to stay for an elaborate puppetry performance, you may want to make some room in your schedule, as the show can last for up to about four hours.
There is so much to do and see in Osaka, but these stops should be at the top of your list. If you don’t take a day to try out some of the suggestions above, it would be as if you hadn’t visited Japan at all. Book your trip to Japan and enjoy these treats and sites. Ganbarou!