Why Osaka?
Osaka entices visitors with its energetic atmosphere, diverse culinary scene, iconic landmarks like Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building, bustling shopping districts, and its convenient location for exploring nearby cultural gems like Kyoto and Nara.
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Must Have Foods! and 5 places you can't miss
okonomiyaki—Osaka’s legendary savory pancake. Made with a batter of flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and a variety of toppings like pork, seafood, or cheese, this sizzling dish is cooked right before your eyes on a teppan grill. Each restaurant has its own twist on the recipe, from thick and fluffy styles to crispier, thinner versions. Whether you go classic or adventurous, take your time to savor each variation—and if your appetite allows, why not try them all?
Takoyaki—golden, crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy on the inside—is one of Japan’s most popular street foods, but nowhere does it better than Osaka. You’ll find these octopus-filled delights all over Japan, but there’s something special about the way they’re made here, with just the right balance of softness, umami, and that signature drizzle of takoyaki sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes. Be warned—these little spheres of molten goodness come fresh off the grill at scorching temperatures! Let them cool for a moment before taking that first bite, unless you want to experience the infamous "takoyaki burn."
- Osaka Castle
- Universal Studios Japan
- Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi
- Kaiyukan
- Umeda Sky Building
A Brief Video of Osaka by Tokyo Creative Travel
"Osaka is like a plate of takoyaki—hot, lively, and full of flavor." - Tetsuko Kuroyanagi
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