One speedy bullet ride away from Tokyo, Osaka, Japan’s second largest metropolitan city has a lot to offer. Largely known as the economic powerhouse of the Kansai region, the city will host many important events like the Group of 20 Summit in June, to be followed by the Rugby World Cup in September, and then the World Expo in 2025.
With just few months until the Group of 20 Summit in Osaka, world leaders from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Britain, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, among others will come together for their ministerial meetings for the first time in Japan.
The Government of Japan believes that the G20 Summit is a perfect opportunity for people from all over the world to see and experience a newly revitalised and transforming Japan. The country’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has outlined its priorities for the Osaka Summit that include promoting free trade, science and technology innovation to solve social problems, infrastructure for development, global health, climate change and promoting sustainable development goals.
In other news, Osaka Metro Co. has announced plans to spruce up its subway systems — spending more than 130 billion yen. They also have plans
to makeover 15 stations along the Midosuji and Chuo lines.
We are told of the man-made Island of Yumeshima, which is now being developed in Osaka Bay, in time for Osaka World Expo 2025.
As per a report in Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO), the number of visitors arrivals to Japan has reached 30.01 million as of December 18, 2018. The organisation estimates to reach 40 million travellers by 2020.
Arrive in Osaka
Travel: Foreign travellers arrive through Kansai International Airport or by bullet train into Shin-Osaka from other cities in Japan.
Transport: If you are planning for some long distance trips then the Japan rail pass is quite cost-effective. Explore the city highlights with options such as Osaka Wonder Loop Bus and Osaka Amazing Pass. Also, recommended to keep ICOCA Card, a contactless travel card handy if you are looking to opt for local transportation like taxis and buses.
Best time to visit: Spring
Osaka Castle
Intended to serve as a fortress in Japan under the Toyotomi rule, the Osaka Castle was once the largest castle in Japan. The construction of the castle dates back to 1583, however, following the death of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the castle was attacked by the Tokugawa troops. It underwent major repairs in 1931 and 1997 and now houses a museum detailing the legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the castle itself. Covering an expanse of 15 acres, the Osaka Castle grounds include thirteen structures. Encompassing the ‘western citadel’ of the castle is the Nishinomaru Garden that includes 600 cherry trees, a tea house and the former Osaka Guest House.
Osaka Aquarium
Located in the centre of the bay area within the Tempozan Harbour Village, the Osaka Aquarium, Kaiyukan is one of the largest public aquariums around the world. The aquarium has an exhibit of 15 tanks, each of which represents a specific region of the Pacific Rim. These tanks are home to 30,000 animals ranging from otters and dolphins to penguins and jellyfishes. Some of these tanks expand over multiple floors giving visitors several vantage points. The main attraction in the aquarium, however, is the whale shark that resides in the central tank. The tour begins on the 8th floor of the aquarium and follows a downward spiral around the central tank.
Universal Studios Japan
Being one of the four Universal Studios in the world, Universal Studios Osaka was the brand’s first Asian venture. Situated in the Osaka Bay Area, the theme park grosses an average of 8 million visitors annually. The park has 10 main attractions inclusive of Universal classics such as ‘Hollywood’ and ‘San Francisco’ as well as newer additions like ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’. It also comprises a variety of rides ranging from roller coasters to carousels to simulators. Enjoy other themed areas such as Minion Park, Amity Village, Waterworld, and Jurassic Park. Additionally, the park conducts various shows and performances including a nightly parade that features illuminated floats.
Tenjinbashi-suji
Stretching from the Tenjinbashi-suji Rokuchome Subway Station to the Tenjinbashi Bridge, the Tenjinbashi-suji is the longest shopping street in Japan. The street is popular among locals for its wide range of goods ranging from groceries and clothes to books and sundries. Furthermore, the street also has several traditional diners as well as more contemporary-styled cafes. The street attracts tourists by the numbers during the Tenjin festival in the month of July. During this month the 2.6km long street is charged with performances, outdoor stalls and shrine parades.
Dotonbori
With a history dating back to the 17th century the Dotonbori Street is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Osaka. The street runs parallel to the Dotonbori Canal and is a popular entertainment and shopping district. The Dotonbori Street is known for its huge billboards and neon lit signage the most famous one being the 20 meter tall sign of the Glico running man. Dotonbori has also established itself as a favourite spot among foodies. Kani Douraku is a popular restaurant known for its crab while Kukuru is a favored takoyaki octopus dumpling joint. Also popular among visitors are the 100-yen shops that sell everything at 100 yen. One of the highlights in this area is the evening cruise down the Dotonbori Canal, in an open-air boat, where you can enjoy the neon lights of the buildings and gain a unique perspective of the city.
Shopping in Osaka
Opened in 2013, a large commercial complex in the Umeda district – Grand Front Osaka is where tourists can easily spend hours and hours just exploring its 270 outlets. From fashion stores and interior goods to sportswear and bookstores, the mall is a perfect place for a family outing and shopping. Very accessible for locals and tourists, the mall also houses some recreational spaces like rooftop gardens and a pretty water area. A few recommended stores are the Panasonic Center for home products, Demi-luxe Beams selling casual and comfortable apparel, and Rosebud Couples for trendy shoes and accessories.
Another attractive shopping and entertainment centre is the Osaka Station City. The mall comprises of a wide range of shops, food spots and cinemas. Check out its fashion building Lucua Osaka and the departmental store Daimaru Umeda.
Shinsaibashi-suji
Named after the erstwhile Shinsaibashi Bridge, the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade sees an average of 60,000 people on a weekday and twice that on holidays and weekends. From jewellery stores and independent boutiques to fast food joints and footwear retailers this shopping hub has something in store for everyone. The arcade has a roof that runs over 580 meters encompassing an estimated 180 stores within it, thus making it an ideal shopping destination during monsoons. The traditional kimono boutiques in the arcade are much sought after by tourists.
Suntory Yamazaki Distillery
Renowned for its line of Yamazaki single malt whiskies, the history of Yamazaki Distillery dates back to 1923. Positioned at the foot of
Mount Tennozan, the distillery is surrounded by greenery and is popular for its premium quality natural water. In fact, the water found in the area of the distillery is written about in ancient Japanese poetry. Visitors can join guided tours of the distillery and the museum for which reservation is required. The tour goes through the process of distillation and the history of the distillery and its products. The two-storey museum also features a cash-only tasting counter and a whiskey library along with a gift shop that offers whiskey-themed goods.
Namba Parks
Positioned in the Minami area of Osaka towards the south of Namba Station, Namba Parks is a massive office and shopping complex. Recognisable by its rooftop gardens, the shopping hub is known for its unconventional architecture. Namba Parks allows visitors to indulge in a shopping spree while being charmed by the beauty of nature. The structure comprises eight storeys along with an underground level featuring an extensive range of stores. Furthermore, the complex has a variety of culinary outlets and an amphitheatre.
Nisha Shroff and Shruti Nair
