Let’s continue the through among the prefectures and cities of Japan and today we take you to Osaka!

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The ancient capital

During the Tokugawa period, from 683 to 745, Osaka (大阪) was the capital of Japan with the name of Naniwa (難波). However, during the Meiji era the capital was moved to Tokyo. Subsequently, Osaka became the center of land, sea and river transport thanks to the entrepreneurs who took command of industrial development. During the Second World War, the city was razed to the ground, but the great Japanese spirit did not allow its defeat. In fact, Osaka was rebuilt more prosperous than it ever had been.
Today Osaka is considered as “the cuisine of Japan”. Moreover, it is an important economic and port center, as well as the third most important city in the country.

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Falling in love with Osaka

Holder of unique charm, Osaka is a city that must necessarily fit into your wish list as it will make you fall in love in a short time!
A fundamental stop is the Osaka Castle, a place so loved during the Hanami period thanks to the 600 cherry trees that surround it. The castle built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi is considered one of the most important historical attractions in Japan!

If you love breathtaking views, the Umeda Sky Building will make you dream with its 360-degree view of the entire city. From its ultramodern observatory located 173 meters high, it is indeed possible to take breathtaking photos! In addition to Umeda you can devote yourself to shopping thanks to its spectacular shopping malls. Moreover, remaining in the theme, if you can not resist the shopping idea, you can go to Shinsaibashi. Shopping district par excellence, every tourist crosses the 600 meters of the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade with its numerous boutiques, retail stores, and luxurious department stores!

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We said that Osaka is considered the “kitchen of Japan”, for this reason, you should definitely visit Dotonbori. Glico Man (Glico is the name of the famous candy company that produces Pocky) will welcome you!

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This giant was installed in 1935 and has become the landmark of Dotonbori.
About 30 years later the mechanized crab of the Kani Doraku restaurant was built. This place serves all kinds of crab followed by Zuboraya and Kinryu Ramen, the most famous restaurants in the neighborhood.

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If you love museums, you cannot give up the Naniwa Rekihaku, the Osaka History Museum. Housed in a building with ultra-modern features, its specialty is that the visit to the museum starts from the tenth floor, the last one! From ancient Japan, the various floors dedicated to the various historical periods of the city are discovered in descent. Finally, we arrive at the first floor where there are the inevitable souvenir shops.

In the Edo period, Osaka was also the capital of Bunraku. This is a form of theatrical performance characterized by the use of puppets that entertained both the nobility and the population. Bunraku shows are generally held in January, April, June, July, August, and November in specific weeks. Please check the information on the National Bunraku Theater shows here: https://www.ntj.jac.go.jp/bunraku.html

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And if after all of this you feel like having fun, a visit to the most beloved park in Japan is a must! We are talking about Universal Studios Japan (ユニーサルスタジオジャパン). The park is divided into 9 thematic areas: Hollywood, Universal Wonderland, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Amity Village, Waterworld, Jurassic Park, San Francisco, Minion Park and New York. For all information and details, please refer to the official website also available in English: https://www.usj.co.jp/e/

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Have we managed to intrigue you? Or have you already visited Osaka and fell in love with it? Tell us all your impressions! There is nothing more beautiful than memories to share a dream.