Have you ever dreamed of going to Japan? I’ve always wanted to visit in April, when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, but any time is a good time to travel to Japan. So why not pick a city and start planning a trip?
I like planning getaways that really let me pack in everything I want, and my Japanese shopping destination of choice is Osaka. As one of the largest cities in the nation, Osaka has it all, including Grand Front Osaka. This huge commercial complex has hundreds of shops and restaurants, and it’s even home to the InterContinental Osaka, which would allow me to rest up between shopping adventures. But what else can you do in Osaka besides go shopping?
Visit a Castle
Osaka Castle Park first opened in 1931, and it has entertained visitors ever since. One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, Osaka Castle began construction in 1583. Over the centuries, battles have been won and lost here. Today, the main tower is the third reconstruction of the original due to fire, lightning, and war. Situated on 15 acres, this historic site features a park and 13 structures including a museum. A visit to Osaka Castle Park is a great way to learn about Japanese history while strolling through a relaxed and serene setting.
Find Some Fish
Before you go for sushi, stop at the aquarium. Think you’ve already seen everything you can possibly see in an aquarium? Visit Osaka Aquarium KAIYUKAN, one of the largest public aquariums in the world. With 27 tanks and over 10,941 tons of water, this is a huge aquarium with fish, manta rays, and even a whale shark. All species hail from the Ring of Fire area of the Pacific Ocean. The aquarium is also a good place to check out tropical fish and ask any of the specialists at the aquarium how you could take care of the fish at home, if you’re like me and decided to get a fish when you’re back home. I asked what I would need and they said things like heaters, a coral LED light, amongst other things to ensure the fish were happy and healthy in their environment. Overall it was a great experience!
Catch a View From Above
For a view of Osaka from 369 feet above the city, climb aboard the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. It’s located at Tempozan Harbor Village next to Osaka Aquarium. While the colored lights onboard are pretty, they’re actually there to provide the weather forecast for the next day in Osaka. During a mere 17-minute ride, you’ll complete one circle while taking in views of Osaka Bay and the Rokko mountain range.
Enjoy a Night Out
No trip to Osaka would be complete without a trip to Dotonbori. This area is probably what comes to mind for most tourists when they think of Japan’s bright lights and scores of people. Located along Osaka’s Dotonbori Canal, this neighborhood has an abundance of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. Food lovers will want to go in order to experience the variety of great cuisines and food that’s specific to Dotonbori. Don’t forget to try specialities such as octopus dumplings, known as takoyaki, or savory pancakes, known as okonomiyaki. Whether you go at night or visit during the day, you’ll be glad you experienced Dotonbori.
You will definitely not regret it if you book a trip to Osaka. But Japan has lots to offer and there are plenty of other places which you would no doubt enjoy as well. Hiroshima is somewhere that even the most apathetic traveller will have heard of and it has been called one of the most iconic cities in the world. Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and is one of the best places to go for foodies. Kyoto is often referred to as the cultural capital of Japan and if you’re interested in Japan’s history and traditions, then that is the place for you. The options are endless! I recommend starting in Osaka, but don’t let your travels end there.
What will you do on your visit to Osaka, Japan?
