Osaka is a major metropolis in the heart of western Japan, with a population of over 8 million. At the city center, office skyscrapers and commercial businesses line the streets, while the area is connected through an advanced public transportation network, starting with its railway system. With an area of approximately 1,905 square kilometers, it is the second smallest of all the prefectures in Japan. However, that space is populated by a large number of people, including 10% of Japan's resident foreigners. Osaka is also slated to host the 2025 World Expo on its man-made island, Yumeshima, where plans to open a casino resort coincide with the event.
In the 17th century, during Japan's Edo period, Osaka came to be called "Tenka no Daidokoro," or "The Kitchen of the Nation." The area grew as an economic center where suppliers of rice and specialty products would gather and do business. The use of dashi, which is now an essential part of Japanese cuisine, started here and spread throughout the country. Osaka is also known as the city of "kuidaore." "kuidaore" means to indulge in food to the point of financial ruin. It is said that Osaka has long been home to many gourmands, and many foods were developed in their search for delicious cuisine. These days, the area is most known for "konamon," which includes foods such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
There are lots of sightseeing spots in Osaka. In the city's Kita area, is Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Tenmagu Shrine, Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, Nakanoshima, etc. If you head south to the Minami area, Osaka's iconic Glico Sign in Dotonbori, Kuromon Ichiba Market, and Hozenji Yokocho are all popular sights. Take a trip west to the Bay area, and you'll find Universal Studios Japan, where people of all ages come to have fun. You'll also find Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world's largest aquariums with over 30,000 creatures. The Tempozan Ferris Wheel in the area is also one of the largest in the world. Also, Osaka Castle, Abeno Harukas, Shinsekai, Tennoji Zoo, and Sumiyoshi Taisha are some of the other hot spots in the city. Outside of the city, you have places like the Expo '70 Commemorative Park in Suita, Minoh Falls in Minoh, and the Cup Noodle Museum in Ikeda.
Osaka provides great access to neighboring prefectures. Simply by getting on a train, you can easily get to Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and other nearby sightseeing spots.
Osaka City's main railways are JR, Osaka Metro, and private railways (Hankyu, Hanshin, Hankai, Kintetsu, Nankai). Local trains stop at every station. Trains with fewer stops like the Special Rapid, Rapid, Limited Express, Express, and Semi Express are also available.
Most sightseeing spots are convenient to get to by using these train.
Activities in Osaka include categories such as Japanese culture, history, workshops, and outdoors. At night, we also have various content like night tours and performances. We have things to do outside the city as well, which are perfect for nature lovers. But that's not all. With our original guided tours, go with a local guide and try out their recommended foods. Leave it to our professional guides to show you around Osaka.
Guided tours are a great way to learn more about an area by going with a local guide and having them show you around. Gain a deeper understanding of Osaka.
Get into normally off-limit areas with special tours or tour around with a pro photographer who will not only guide you, but take plenty of great pictures. Things to do at night include a night walk tour and food tours.