Konnichiwa~ Apart from spending a day in Nagoya, we also enjoyed a delightful 48-hour stay in Osaka, Japan. This marks my 5th visit to Osaka, and yet, I'm still thrilled to be here. During this trip, I plan to discover new places I haven't explored before, while also ensuring my friend gets to experience some of Osaka's iconic landmarks and create unforgettable tourist memories. Hahaha. As you read on, I'll share more about the attractions, food, and accommodation we experienced in Osaka.
Transport
Getting Around Osaka
The Shinkansen (bullet train) offers the most efficient way to travel to Osaka (大阪) from other cities in Japan. For travellers from your country, there are direct flights to Kansai International Airport, served by several reputable airlines. When getting around Osaka, the subway and train systems are the most reliable and convenient modes of public transportation. To easily pay for all train and subway rides in Osaka, using a prepaid ICOCA card is highly recommended. Furthermore, the deposit and any remaining balance on an ICOCA card are fully refundable.
Attractions
Namba Yasaka Shrine
Namba Yasaka Shrine (难波八阪神社) has been revered as the guardian shrine of the Namba district for a long time. In its heyday, the shrine boasted a shichido garan, which consisted of 7 standard buildings found in a Buddhist temple complex. Unfortunately, the shrine's prosperity waned due to wartime fires. The present shrine buildings are reconstructions completed after the war.
One particularly captivating feature of the shrine is the enormous lion-head-shaped building, towering 12 meters high and spanning 11 meters wide. It stands out as a remarkable sight to behold. An annual event at Namba Yasaka Shrine is the Tug-of-War Ritual, which takes place every third Sunday in January. This ritual is rooted in a Japanese myth, commemorating the enshrined deity, Susano-no-Mikoto, who vanquished the great serpent god, Yamata-no-orochi, liberating the people from adversity.
In 2001, this ritual was officially recognized as Osaka City's first intangible folk cultural property, adding to its significance and cultural importance. The shrine is just a 6-minute walk from Namba Station on all lines. This temple has recently become a social media sensation. Be sure to visit if you're in Osaka.
Details
Location : 2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan.
Business hours : Daily (6.30am - 5.00pm)
Admission fee : Free
Katsuo-ji Temple
Katsuoji Temple (勝尾寺), situated north of Osaka City and embraced by the serene beauty of Minoo, is renowned for its auspicious reputation. Throughout history, emperors and shoguns visited this temple to seek victory in their endeavours.
Today, the temple continues to attract visitors who come to pray for success in various aspects of life, such as work, academics, business, and sports. The temple's fortunate ambience is enhanced by the abundance of daruma dolls scattered across the complex, which are traditional Japanese symbols of good luck.
At present, Katsuoji maintains its lucky atmosphere and is especially known for its extensive collection of Daruma dolls. These red dolls, in various sizes, adorn almost every corner of the temple grounds. Visitors can partake in the temple's rituals by purchasing a daruma doll and contributing their wishes for success. After acquiring the doll, individuals write their goals on the back and proceed to the main temple to light incense and offer prayers for the fulfilment of their aspirations.
Upon achieving their objective, individuals return to Katsuoji, where the left eye of the daruma is coloured during a meditative ritual, symbolizing the fulfilment of their wishes. The completed doll can then be placed on the temple grounds as a symbol of victory. Alternatively, one can paint the left eye themselves and keep the doll at home as a tangible reminder of their success. This time-honoured tradition at Katsuoji continues to inspire hope and bring a sense of fulfilment to countless visitors seeking luck and accomplishment.
To reach the temple, you'll need to make your way to the top. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase a daruma doll and some amulets as keepsakes.
Upon completing the prayers, they paint a black circle in the doll's right eye (both eyes are blank when purchased). The incomplete doll is then taken home and placed in a visible location as a constant reminder of their goal.
There are many varieties of souvenirs that you can purchase here. All come with the cute daruma packaging.
Since the weather is very hot (summer season), I ordered a strawberry kakigori and my friend ordered an eggette.
Honestly, this temple was the highlight I anticipated the most during my Osaka trip. I'm thrilled that we managed to visit because it's truly stunning and absolutely worth it! I'm already planning to return during the autumn or winter season for my next visit to experience its beauty again.
Details
Location :2914-1 Aomatani, Minoh, Osaka 562-8508, Japan.
Business hours : Mon - Fri (8.00am - 5.00pm) ; Sat (8.00am - 5.30pm) ; Sun (8.00am - 6.00pm)
Admission fee : 500 yen
Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku
Tsutenkaku Tower (通天閣), situated at the heart of an area that has beautifully preserved the nostalgic ambience of old Osaka, remains a cherished symbol of the city. This area, now known as Shinsekai (New World, 新世界), evolved following the establishment of the original Tsutenkaku Tower and Japan's Luna Park amusement park in 1912. Shinsekai is adorned with vibrant retro signboards and billboards, creating a captivating atmosphere.
Billiken (ビリケン), the unofficial mascot of Osaka, has an interesting story. In local legend, the original wooden statue of Billiken was stolen when the park closed in 1923. Nearly sixty years later, in 1980, a replica was installed at Tsutenkaku Tower. This replica can now be found on the observation deck, surrounded by many Billiken statues. Visitors place donations and rub their feet for good luck.
We enjoyed a light snack at Tsuruhashi Fugetsu Shinsekai, which is now permanently closed. It was a delightful stop!
Venture through the Janjan Yokocho Alley shopping street, surrounded by large retro signboards, and indulge in the culinary delights of renowned dishes like Kushikatsu, deep-fried bite-sized meat or vegetables and Dote-yaki, slow-simmered beef stewed in miso and other seasonings.
Apart from savouring the delectable offerings from a plethora of restaurants and eateries, visitors can step back in time at the Kasuga Gorakujo, a retro game centre in operation since around 1959, and the Shinsekai Hihokan, Japan's largest shooting gallery, reflecting a bygone era. Additionally, Shinsekai is home to the famous Asahi Theater, known for sitcoms and comedian performances, and Dorakutei, a renowned venue for comedy talk shows.
To reach Tsutenkaku Tower in Shinsekai from Osaka Station, you can take the JR Loop Line to Shin-Imamiya Station, which is a mere 6-minute walk away. Alternatively, if you opt for the Sakaisuji Subway Line, alight at Ebisucho Station, and it's just a 3-minute walk from there.
Details
Location : 1 Chome-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan.
Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori
Shinsaibashi is a shopping district situated between the Dotonbori River and Shinsaibashi Station. The exact boundaries between Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi (心斎橋) are not well-defined, and there might be some overlap between the two areas.
On the other hand, Dotonbori (道頓堀) is a street that runs along the Dotonbori River, specifically on the south side of the river.
Among these iconic signs, the most famous one is undoubtedly the Glico running man located above the Ebisubashi Bridge. This running man sign has become an iconic symbol of Dotonbori and is a must-see attraction for visitors exploring the vibrant district.
Dotonbori is renowned for its captivating signage and billboards, featuring striking displays of a giant pufferfish, an octopus, a clown, and the Kani Douraku crab, all competing for attention and contributing to an amusement park-like ambience.
Getting to Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori is simple and convenient, with easy train access from all parts of Osaka. If you are coming from Osaka/Umeda Station, take the Midosuji Line and alight at Shinsaibashi Station. Once there, find the exit leading to the Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street shopping arcade. From there, you can easily explore the vibrant and bustling districts of Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori.
Details
Location : 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan.
Business hours : 24 hours (selected shops)
Food
Cobatopan-Kojo
In a quaint and nostalgic small town, you'll find a charming Cobatopan-Kojo (コバトパン工場) speciality store. Here, people of all ages, from young children to the elderly, can relish delightful bread and savour it with a smile each day. Everything, from the ingredients to the delectable sauces, is lovingly handmade. The store utilizes two types of dough, carefully chosen to complement the fillings that go into their sandwiches. Whether for regular daily indulgence or as a thoughtful gift for friends, Cobatopan is a beloved choice that brings joy and satisfaction to its patrons.
Naturally, we couldn't resist selecting this adorable emoji bun! It's one of their distinctive offerings. They offer three bun varieties: sausage, chocolate, and ham. We opted for the sausage and ham options. These buns are not only enjoyable to eat but also convenient for biting into.
Regarding the beverages, we opted for their cold matcha drink. To our surprise, the green tea had a sweet taste! We had anticipated a more authentic, unsweetened flavour typical of green tea in Japan. If you're planning to visit, it's worth noting that their green tea is on the sweeter side. If this concerns you, you might consider trying a coffee instead.
Details
Location : 3 Chome-4-22 Tenma, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0043, Japan.
Business hours : Mon - Fri (8.00am - 7.00pm) ; Sat - Sun (8.00am - 6.00pm)
Strawberry Mania
Located in Shinsaibashi, Osaka, there is a delightful dessert shop named Strawberry Mania, a must-visit destination for strawberry enthusiasts!
At last, I had the chance to savour the famous strawberry soft serve. It was incredibly delicious, and I'm looking forward to returning for more strawberry desserts in the future!
Here, you can indulge in various strawberry desserts, including strawberry daifuku, strawberry ice cream, candied strawberries, strawberry cakes and more. For all those who love the sweet and luscious taste of strawberries, this shop promises a delightful experience filled with delectable treats that celebrate the beloved fruit in various mouthwatering forms.
Details
Location : 2 Chome-7-26 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan.
Business hours : Daily (11.00am - 9.00pm)
Kushikatsu Takoyaki Ajinodaimaru
Kushikatsu Takoyaki Ajinodaimaru (串かつ・たこ焼き 味の大丸)'s iconic landmark is the giant octopus, and it sets the perfect scene to savour Osaka's famous dishes all in one place! Indulge in the delightful combination of Takoyaki and Kushikatsu together. You can order takeaway Takoyaki from their stand or immerse yourself in the experience of making Takoyaki right in their store! It's a fantastic opportunity to relish the best of Osaka's culinary delights and even learn the art of crafting Takoyaki yourself.
We ordered an original takoyaki, a potato croquette, and potatoes with parmesan cheese. Everything was quite good so far.
Details
Location : 3 Chome-1-15 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan.
Business hours : Daily (11.00am - 9.00pm)
Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kuromon Market (黑门市场), also known as Kuromon Ichiba, is a vibrant covered public market extending approximately 600 meters along Sakaisujidori Street in the Minami area of Osaka. Boasting around 150 shops, the market's primary focus lies in the sale of fresh fish, meat, and produce. Additionally, visitors can find shops offering a delightful array of traditional sweets, affordable clothing, and homeware. With its origins tracing back to the Edo Period, Kuromon Market exudes a captivating atmosphere, making it a perfect place for leisurely strolls and sampling various street foods.
One of the market's unique charms is the availability of larger food quantities for later consumption and smaller portions suitable for immediate enjoyment. A wide range of delectable treats are on offer, such as grilled seafood like crab legs and oysters, mouthwatering yakitori, luxurious sea urchins, delicious sushi, savoury eel, and an assortment of seasonal fruits. And of course, a visit to Kuromon Market wouldn't be complete without indulging in the beloved street food classic, takoyaki. With such an enticing variety of foods, Kuromon Market promises a delightful culinary experience for locals and tourists alike.
For breakfast, we dined at Kouragumi Kuromon (越前かに職人 甲羅組). My friend Joe ordered a fresh oyster and a mini uni don, while I had an uni and ikura don. The portions were so generous that I could only finish about 70% of my meal.
Kuromon Market is conveniently located just a few steps away from Nipponbashi Station, which can be accessed via the Sennichimae and Sakaisuji subway lines. Alternatively, if you prefer to walk, it takes around ten minutes to reach the market from Namba Station. Both transportation options offer easy access to this bustling and vibrant marketplace, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Details
Location : 2 Chome Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan.
Business hours : Varies by store, typically (8.00am - 6.00pm)
All Day Dining Hikari
All-day dining Hikari (大阪フルーツカフェ) has gained popularity for its delectable Italian cuisine and seasonal fruit parfaits, crafted with the finest ingredients of each season.
We made a special trip to try the momo (peach) parfait here because it's peach season! The peaches were incredibly tender and delicious.
In addition to the parfait, we ordered the tomato shirasu risotto and fettuccine carbonara, both of which were incredibly flavorful and served in perfectly portioned sizes. Their selection of side dishes is ideal for sharing, and the dessert menu provides a sweet conclusion to a satisfying meal.
The owner, formerly a patissier at a renowned hotel, aspires to offer "original products that cannot be imitated." Among their recommended menu items, the "Strawberry Mountain Climbing Parfait" stands out, generously piled with carefully selected strawberries. We initially wanted to order this, but unfortunately, it wasn't strawberry season during our visit, so they didn't have it available. Emphasizing the use of local vegetables and promoting local production for local consumption, the establishment takes pride in contributing to the essence of deliciousness, safety, and ecology.
Their shop in Appla Takaishi has permanently closed. However, they have announced that they will reopen at a new Osaka location in June 2024. (Since the shop that we visited has been closed, I won't be putting the shop details here).
Hotel
Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier
Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier (三井ガーデンホテル大阪プレミア) has earned the prestigious Michelin Guide listing for three consecutive years, a testament to its excellence. The hotel boasts stylish and modern guest rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi and offers the convenience of large public baths on the top floor.
The well-appointed rooms feature wooden flooring and a serene atmosphere, creating a relaxing ambience. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV with video-on-demand programs, a fridge, and an electric kettle with tea bags. The en suite bathroom includes a bathtub and complimentary toiletries. Some rooms have frosted window glass, which may limit the views. Bath amenities, including a toothbrush set and a hairdryer, are provided in all rooms.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Osaka's city centre from the 16th-floor's elegant ambience. The stylish design fosters a serene atmosphere for your stay in Osaka. Unwind and experience a unique form of relaxation in our exclusive lounge. It's an exclusive lounge for the guests staying in the room on the 13th - 15th floor.
The hotel's location is convenient, with Yodoyabashi Subway Station just a 12-minute walk away, offering easy access to JR Shin-Osaka Shinkansen (bullet train) Station within a 10-minute ride. Additionally, the lively areas of Namba and Dotonbori can be reached in a quick 5-minute subway ride. For those interested in sightseeing, iconic Osaka Castle is a short 5-minute subway ride away via Watanabebashi Subway Station, which is only a 4-minute walk from the hotel.
Details
Location : 3-4-15 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka, 530-0005.
Check-in time : 3.00pm
Check-out time : 11.00am
Alright, that's my 48-hour itinerary in Osaka. I hope you enjoyed reading it. If you have any more questions that I didn't cover here, feel free to leave a comment. And, don't forget to watch the travel vlog below. I've included Chinese voice-over and subtitles in the video as well. XOXO.
Travel Vlog
( Subscribe to my YouTube Channel : TheShinilola )
#ShiniInOsaka
For more photos, feel free to search the hashtag #ShiniInOsaka on Instagram. There, you can also find additional details about my personal experiences during the trip.
Osaka Related Posts
- Osaka Travel Guide : https://www.shinilola.com/2018/11/osaka-travel-guide.html
- Universal Studios Japan : https://www.shinilola.com/2018/08/universal-studios-japan.html
- Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan : https://www.shinilola.com/2018/11/osaka-aquarium-kaiyukan.html
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