Traveling to Osaka: Culinary Paradise and Entertainment Hub in Kansai
If Tokyo is known as a busy modern city and Kyoto is closely tied to calm traditional nuances, then Osaka is a combination of both—feeling warm, lively, and full of flavor. Located in the Kansai region, Osaka is not just Japan's second-largest metropolitan city, but also a symbol of the cheerful and relaxed Japanese personality. Its unofficial slogan even says kuidaore, which means "eat until you drop." Yes, this is the best place to satisfy your stomach and your adventurous soul!
According to data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Osaka ranked as the second most visited city by international tourists in Japan in 2024 after Tokyo, with more than 7.8 million foreign tourists. This figure shows that Osaka is not just a stopover city, but a primary destination for those who want to experience a more relaxed and colorful side of Japan. The city serves as the economic heart of western Japan while maintaining the charm of tradition and a friendly lifestyle. From the neon lights of Dotonbori to the aroma of takoyaki on every street corner, Osaka is a place where every step feels alive.
Culinary Paradise: From Takoyaki to Kushikatsu
Let's start with the most tempting thing about Osaka: its culinary scene. The Japanese people themselves call Osaka "The Nation's Kitchen" (Tenka no Daidokoro), and this title exists for a reason. Here, food is not just a necessity, but a form of pride and cultural expression. One of the city's culinary icons is takoyaki... you are surely familiar with the name, right?! These are wheat-flour batter balls filled with pieces of octopus, grilled in a hot iron mold. You can find them at almost every corner of Dotonbori, with katsuobushi (bonito flakes) toppings dancing gently on top.
Then there is okonomiyaki, a kind of savory pancake filled with cabbage, egg, and meat, cooked on a flat iron griddle. Restaurants like Mizuno or Chibo in the Namba area are popular destinations for tourists. Meanwhile, kushikatsu—skewers of meat and vegetables deep-fried and served with a secret sauce—can be enjoyed in the Shinsekai district, a retro area that preserves the atmosphere of old Osaka. According to a 2024 TripAdvisor survey, 86% of foreign tourists rated Osaka as the city with the best culinary experience in Japan, even surpassing Tokyo. For food lovers, every bite in this city is not just about taste, but a story: of warmth, laughter, and a life philosophy that is simple yet abundant in flavor.
Dotonbori: The Heart of Entertainment and Osaka's Symbol of Cheer
It feels incomplete to talk about Osaka without mentioning Dotonbori, the most famous entertainment district in the city. When night falls, this area transforms into a sea of neon lights, giant billboards, and the sound of laughter from bars, restaurants, and karaoke joints. Among them all, the most legendary icon is the Glico Man, a billboard of a runner with arms raised that has stood since 1935 and become the symbol of the city.
Besides taking photos in front of the Glico Man, tourists can also take a boat ride along the Dotonbori Canal to enjoy the shimmering lights from a different perspective. Data from the Osaka Tourism Bureau (OTB) recorded that Dotonbori received more than 120,000 visitors per day during the 2024 holiday season, a figure reflecting how lively this area is. Beyond food and entertainment, Dotonbori is known for its vibrant and spontaneous atmosphere. Do not be surprised if you see locals shouting enthusiastically, cheering for their favorite baseball team, the Hanshin Tigers, or simply striking up a conversation with the open and humorous style characteristic of Osaka.
Historical and Cultural Heritage: From Osaka Castle to Shinsekai
Behind the hustle and bustle of modernity, Osaka also holds an impressive wealth of history. One of the most famous landmarks is Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo), a majestic fortress built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a key figure in the unification of Japan. The castle is surrounded by a vast, beautiful park, especially during spring when more than 4,000 cherry blossom trees bloom. Data from the OTB shows that Osaka Castle receives more than 2 million visitors each year, making it one of the busiest historical sites in Japan. From the top of its tower, you can enjoy a contrasting panorama of the city—modern buildings towering in the distance while green gardens surround the historic castle walls.
In addition to the castle, the Shinsekai area offers a touch of nostalgia with retro architecture inspired by the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. In its center stands the Tsutenkaku Tower, an Osaka icon first built in 1912. The area is known for its unique local atmosphere, featuring small stalls, kushikatsu restaurants, and classic arcade games that take visitors back in time. Unlike the typically neat and quiet image of Japan, Shinsekai is "messy" in a captivating way; this is another form of Osaka's authenticity that many foreign tourists may not know.
Modern Entertainment: Universal Studios Japan and the Magic of Fantasy Worlds
Osaka is also home to Universal Studios Japan (USJ), one of the most popular theme parks in the world. Opened in 2001, the park receives more than 14 million visitors annually (2024 Statista data) and is a major magnet for family travelers and movie fans alike. Areas like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park allow visitors to step into their favorite fantasy worlds.
USJ is not just a theme park, but also a representation of Japan's world-class spirit of innovation and entertainment. With sophisticated rides and spectacular shows, every corner radiates the characteristic energy of Osaka—cheerful, spirited, and entertaining. In fact, according to a 2024 Travel + Leisure Asia survey, USJ occupied the second position on the list of "Most Loved Theme Parks in Asia," trailing only Hong Kong Disneyland. If you want to experience the fusion of technology, creativity, and Japanese pop culture, USJ is a must-include in your itinerary.
Osaka at a Glance: A City with a Friendly Soul
More than just a tourist destination, Osaka is a city with a soul. Its people are known to be more spontaneous, humorous, and open compared to the residents of Tokyo, who tend to be more formal. Even in a survey conducted by Nikkei Research in 2024, Osaka was named the "Friendliest Tourist City in Japan," with a score of 4.8 out of 5 in the category of resident hospitality. It is no wonder many tourists say they "fall in love not just with the place, but with the people."
When you walk through the Kuromon Ichiba Market, taste hot takoyaki from the hands of the vendor, or stroll along the sparkling Namba riverside, you will feel an atmosphere that cannot be found elsewhere. Osaka teaches one simple thing: that happiness can be born from small things—specifically from good food, laughter with friends, and a contagious zest for life.
So, if you are planning to go to Japan and want to experience the most "alive" side of the Land of the Rising Sun, Osaka is the place. Come with an empty stomach, an open heart, and a spirit ready to laugh. Because in Osaka, you won't just go sightseeing; you will experience the Japanese life in its most cheerful and authentic version.
