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Osaka travel experiences will elevate your journey beyond expectations. Osaka is Japan's third largest city with a modern and bustling lifestyle. It will offer you unique experiences that you will cherish forever. The city attracts tourists with its harmonious blend of ancient charm and modernity. This will undoubtedly be an ideal stopover for your trip.
Osaka will bring you many exciting surprises (Source: Collection)
Osaka Travel Experiences - Ideal Timing
Ever wondered when is the best time to visit Osaka? According to Osaka travel experiences, timing your trip right will provide you with the best experiences. The city experiences a short winter and a long summer. Hence, summers here can be quite scorching, especially in July and August.
However, this is also the time when schoolchildren have their summer break, so tourist spots remain crowded. Many families and friend groups organize camping trips, picnics, or short excursions during the summer.
You can visit Osaka in any season of the year. But according to the Osaka travel experiences of those who have been there before, spring is the best time. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom all over the city. The pink hue blankets the scenery, creating a very poetic atmosphere.
Alternatively, autumn is also an ideal time to book a tour to Japan to visit Osaka. During this time, the city welcomes you with the golden hues of leaves transitioning to fall colors. You'll experience a romantic ambiance as you stroll beneath this scenery.
Winter in Osaka is equally amazing. During winter, you'll witness the pure white snow falling. You can immerse yourself in festive activities, entertainment, and wonderful fun. It's definitely something you'll remember forever.
Osaka Travel Tips - Transportation
What's the best way to travel in Osaka? In this section, there are two aspects to consider: getting to Osaka and getting around Osaka. Let's explore each part together!
1. Getting to Osaka
The most efficient way to travel to Osaka is by air. Nowadays, there are many airlines operating direct flights to Osaka. You can consider airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Hahn Air, ANA - All Nippon Airways, and more.
Kansai International Airport with its vast area (Source: Compiled)
However, the ticket prices for these flights are usually quite high. To snag cheap tickets, it's advisable to buy them early or keep an eye out for promotional deals for discounted fares.
Another option is to choose connecting flights, making a stopover in another country. This option may take more time compared to direct flights. However, the ticket prices are often more affordable.
2. Transportation in Osaka
The most common means of transportation in Osaka are trains and taxis. Both options offer different and exciting experiences.
Taking the train is faster and more cost-effective. For convenient train travel, you should purchase an ICOCA card. Riding the train with this card will give you a unique sensation as it swiftly zooms underground.
The subway is the primary mode of transportation in Osaka (Source: Compiled)
If you're looking for a quick and convenient option, you can choose a taxi. Although the cost of traveling by taxi is higher than by train, in urgent situations, taxis are a great lifesaver. Taxis can also take you to places inaccessible by train.
Kansai Airport is located 38 km from Osaka, Japan. To reach your pre-booked hotel or the city center, you should choose the appropriate mode of transportation. In this case, you can opt for buses like JR Bus, Willer... with fares around 1,500 yen. Alternatively, you can travel by JR Limited Rail Express.
Travel Tips for Osaka - Where to Stay in Osaka?
Where should you stay when traveling to Osaka? If it's your first time in Osaka, you'll surely wonder about this. Osaka is a large city with a thriving tourism scene, offering a variety of accommodation options ranging from homestays and rental apartments to luxury hotels.
Based on the Osaka travel experience of those who have been here, choose accommodation that suits your budget. The staff in Osaka are generally very enthusiastic and friendly.
1. Budget Hotels
Below are some budget-friendly hotels with great amenities for your reference:
- Sauna & Capsule Spadio Hotel, located at 2-1-1, Sakuragawa, Naniwa-ku, Namba, Osaka.
- Hotel Raizan South, located at 1-3-3 Taishi Nishinari-ku, Tennoji, Osaka.
- Hotel Carnet, located at 5-15-22 Higashi Naniwa-cho, Amagasaki-shi, Amagasaki, Osaka.
2. Luxury Hotels
For an enhanced experience, you can opt for luxury hotels. These accommodations feature exceptionally luxurious interiors and stunning views. Consider the following hotels:
- The Ritz-Carlton, located at 2-5-25 Umeda Kita-ku, Umeda, Osaka.
- Hotel Hankyu International, located at 19-19 Chayamachi Kita-ku, Umeda, Osaka.
- Hotel Nikko Osaka, located at 1-3-3, Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Namba, Osaka.
- Hotel AGORA Osaka Moriguchi, located at 10-5 Kawahara Cho, Moriguchi-shi, Osaka Castle, Osaka.
Osaka Travel Experience - Places to Visit in Osaka
The main purpose of travel is to visit famous landmarks. Do you know which places to visit when traveling to Osaka? If not, let's explore the following destinations! These are the 'hot' spots based on the Osaka travel experience of most tourists!
1. Osaka Castle
According to Osaka travel experience, this is a must-visit destination on your itinerary. The castle was built in the 16th century and is now over 400 years old. It is a famous historical and cultural symbol of Osaka that you shouldn't miss.
Osaka Castle is the largest and most beautiful castle in Japan. Its unique architecture has attracted tourists. Additionally, the surrounding scenery contributes to its charm.
Osaka Castle looks incredibly majestic from a distance (Image Source: Collection)
The castle, standing 8 stories tall, displays historical artifacts from the 1st to the 7th floor. Visiting here allows you to understand more about Japan's ancient history. From the 8th floor, you can overlook the vast city of Osaka. It includes modern high-rise buildings, the Yamato River, and mountains covered in lush greenery.
If you enjoy cherry blossom viewing in spring, Osaka is the place to be. Many believe that there is no other place in Japan where cherry blossoms are as breathtaking as here. The scenery of cherry blossoms around Osaka Castle will captivate you.
2. Universal Studio Japan
If you're looking for fun and exploration, head to Universal Studio Japan amusement park. According to Osaka travel experience, there are plenty of exciting things to experience here.
There are 8 main areas to explore here: New York, Hollywood, Jurassic Park, San Francisco, Amity Village, Waterworld, Harry Potter's Wizarding World, and Universal Wonderland.
A familiar check-in point at Universal Studio Japan (Image Source: Collection)
The variety of games here ranges from gentle to thrilling, catering to all types of customers. Rest assured, you'll have unforgettable moments and might even forget the way back when you step foot here.
In addition, the park features models of characters from blockbuster films such as Terminator 2, Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, and Spider-Man... To explore everything here, it's best to dedicate a full day!
3. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
If you're someone who loves exploring the depths of the ocean, you should visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. This is a must-visit spot in the Osaka travel experience. It houses over 30,000 diverse and abundant marine species. Among them, more than 620 marine species are showcased in 15 large water tanks.
At the aquarium, you'll get a deeper understanding of the colorful and vibrant underwater world. The main attraction here is the world's largest shark tank. You'll be mesmerized watching the sharks gracefully swimming in the water.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan makes us feel like we're lost in the endless ocean (Source: Collection)
Here, you'll admire not only coral reefs but also creatures that usually inhabit deep and frozen waters. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the mysterious ocean life.
Additionally, the aquarium offers captivating performance shows. Even more interesting are the laboratory tours. These programs are highly educational activities.
4. Dotonbori
Dotonbori lies in the Minami area, part of Osaka city. It's one of Japan's most bustling commercial districts. According to Osaka travel experience, here you can shop and dine at the same time.
Dotonbori boasts numerous street food stalls and renowned restaurants. Hence, it boasts a rich culinary culture. Even from a distance, the aroma wafting from these eateries is tantalizing.
Dotonbori with its iconic Glico Man billboard (Source: Collection)
The highlight here is the giant billboards lining the streets. The scenery is both ancient and modern, a unique aspect that always leaves first-time visitors in awe.
Glico Man is the iconic symbol of this area. It's a large neon sign depicting a man running on a green track. This sign has been in place at Dotonbori Bridge since 1953. It serves as an advertisement for the Glico food company, known for producing Pocky and Pretz snacks.
5. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
According to Osaka travel experience, Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of Japan's oldest shrines. This spiritual structure dates back to the 3rd century, soon after Buddhism was introduced to the country.
After several renovations and expansions, Sumiyoshi Taisha has become an important landmark of the nation. The shrine's unique architecture is what captivates visitors, especially its traditional tiled roof and dark red painted pillars.
The ancient architecture of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine (Source: Collection)
Within the shrine grounds, there are numerous temples and bell towers. This place is renowned for its sacredness and bringing luck and prosperity to the people. If you have the opportunity to travel to Osaka, you should not miss this shrine.
The serene and solemn atmosphere here will make you feel peaceful and content. Therefore, when worshiping at this shrine, you should not make noise or laugh loudly. Also, remember to dress appropriately for the temple visit!
6. Minoo Park
If you're a nature lover seeking tranquility, then head to Minoo Park. According to Osaka travel experience, this is the perfect place for you to take a stroll and immerse yourself in nature.
Minoo Park is a park located in the capital city of Osaka. The park is covered with vast expanses of forest. Here, you'll find not only trees but also shrines, waterfalls, and maple forests... In the autumn, you'll fully feel the romance that the autumn scenery brings.
Minoo Park with its breathtaking natural scenery (Source: Collection)
Especially, the park is also home to wild monkeys. This adds an extra highlight to Minoo Park. If you want to escape from the noisy city or the neon lights, then this is the perfect place for you.
Not only will you breathe in fresh air, but you'll also capture many beautiful photos. The fresh and beautiful natural scenery always uplifts our spirits.
Osaka travel experience - What to eat in Osaka?
What should you eat when traveling to Osaka? If you're a food lover, then you shouldn't miss out on the dishes in Osaka. These dishes have unique and distinctive flavors that will surely make you want to keep eating. Below are the must-try dishes based on the Osaka travel experience of many people.
1. Takoyaki
The first dish nominated in the list is Takoyaki. Surely, those who love Japanese cuisine are very familiar with this dish. However, Takoyaki prepared in Osaka has its own distinctive flavor.
This is because the seafood is freshly caught and processed immediately. Thanks to this, the filling of the balls will ensure freshness and deliciousness. It can be said that Takoyaki has become one of the symbols of this third-largest city in Japan.
Takoyaki is a familiar dish to the people of Osaka (Image source: Collection)
Even the locals here have built a museum dedicated to this type of cake. Here, you will understand more about the history of the formation of this cake through each stage. If you love this famous cake, then visit the museum to understand it better!
2. Shabu Shabu
Shabu Shabu is one of the most famous hot pot dishes in Osaka. The special feature of this hot pot dish is that the broth is not seasoned with any spices. As a result, you can fully taste the beef, vegetables, and mushrooms.
Actually, this hot pot dish originated from China called Shuan Yangrou. Originally, this hot pot was a lamb hot pot. One day, a restaurant in Osaka came up with the idea of remaking this dish by replacing lamb with beef. After several adjustments, it became the Shabu Shabu hot pot as it is today.
The Shabu Shabu hot pot steaming with enticing smoke (Image source: Collection)
According to Osaka travel experience, this is a dish you must try. If you visit Osaka in winter, you can't miss out on this delicious dish. What's better than enjoying a hot pot in the chilly weather?
3. Yakiniku
If you're a fan of grilled meat, then you must try Yakiniku. This grilled meat dish is beloved by many when they visit Osaka. The tantalizing aroma of pork and beef always stimulates everyone's taste buds.
The delicious slices of beef create a sensory delight for diners (Image source: Collection)
Just the thought of enjoying grilled meat while chatting with friends brings immense joy. Pairing it with fresh vegetables truly makes it a delightful experience. Despite being a country abundant in seafood, this grilled meat dish holds its ground firmly. Nowhere else can replicate the unique and delicious flavor of Osaka.
4. Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki, the savory pancake, is a traditional Japanese dish. You might have tried it before, but tasting it in Osaka will give you a completely different experience. According to Osaka travel experience, this is a special delicacy that you shouldn't miss.
In Japanese, 'okonomi' means 'to one's liking,' and 'yaki' means 'grilled.' Essentially, the name of this pancake dish means 'grilled as you like.' It is prepared by pan-frying a variety of ingredients.
Okonomiyaki: Tempting and incredibly eye-catching (Source: Collection)
In Osaka, you'll enjoy it right after the chef finishes cooking. This ensures the freshness and crispiness of the pancake. The main ingredients are eggs and flour. During preparation, the chef adds cabbage, vegetables, seafood, etc.
This pancake is served with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise. Additionally, it's sprinkled with seaweed flakes and a bit of bonito flakes. This combination creates a flavor that is unique to Osaka.
5. Beef Noodles
Though not entirely novel, the flavor prepared in Osaka is distinctly unique. The noodles used are thick, offering a chewy and satisfying texture. The tender, flavorful beef paired with richly seasoned broth creates a distinctive taste for this dish.
A bowl of noodles, though seemingly simple, carries a remarkably delicious flavor (Source: Collection)
According to Osaka travel experience, you should definitely try this dish. The taste of beef noodles is sure to leave you impressed. Even the most discerning palates will find themselves going back for more.
How much does it cost to travel to Osaka?
When booking an international travel tour to Osaka, Japan, the cost of the trip is usually clear from the start. Depending on the timing, itinerary, and duration of the trip, the price may vary. Aside from the fixed expenses, you only need to bring spending money for daily expenses.
Traveling independently may cost more than a tour but offers equally unique experiences (Source: Collection)
So, how much does it cost to travel to Osaka independently and what are the expenses? According to Osaka travel experience, there are fixed expenses that you must cover. Let's take a brief look at the following information:
- First, let's talk about airfare. On average, a one-way ticket costs around 4 million VND. If you buy tickets close to the departure date, the price will likely be higher.
- Traveling to Osaka, Japan requires a visa. The visa application fee is usually around 1 million VND.
- Depending on whether you choose luxury hotels or not, the price of a room per night will range from 2 to 5 million VND.
- Transportation costs will be from 1 to 2 million VND. This depends on whether you choose to travel by subway or taxi.
- If you eat at restaurants, the cost of food and drink will be around 3 million VND per day. To save money, you may consider opting for street food stalls or roadside eateries.
Along with that, there will be additional expenses for shopping and other daily activities during the journey. Remember to exchange money for Japanese yen and don't forget to bring your card as a backup in case you run out of cash!
Osaka is always one of the most fascinating stops in Japan. When visiting Osaka, you'll not only enjoy delicious food but also discover many interesting places. The Osaka travel experiences mentioned above will give you more ideas for your trip. If you need to book a tour to Japan, contact Mytour via hotline Mytour!
