Yes! Osaka is definitely worth a visit if you're planning a trip to Japan.
The third-largest city in Japan, Osaka, is known to visitors as a city that cries out for attention. Traditionally the village of the Merchant class in Feudal Japan, modern Osaka has reinvented itself with neon shopfronts, boutique shopping and unique food around every corner. Coming alive after dark, this city is one that visitors continue to return to, having never managed to explore all of the endless nooks and crannies.
With a population os 2.5 million and covering 223 square kilometers, something new and exciting is never far away. While the land has been occupied since the 5th century BC, the city name Osaka came to prominence in 645 AD. Ever since it has played an important role in the country's industry and import business, becoming a place where merchants' fortunes were made or broken.
Today, visitors come to explore the history, art, food and culture Japan has to offer. Japanese art, both traditional and modern, is a huge draw for visitors.
If you're visiting in March/April, the famous and beautiful Plum Blossom Viewing at Castle Park marks the end of winter and gives visitors the chance to see the castle at night, lit up and surrounded by thousands of blossom flowers. In November, visitors can take part in the famous Osaka City Marathon, seeing all the sights of the city while dressed in the colours of the rainbow.
Many families come here because of the endless list of things to do with kids. Universal Studios is the second largest theme park in Japan and offers movie-lovers, thrill-seekers and families a fantastic day out. With the rides and characters from their favourite movies, anime, and games as well as some new Japanese friends, kids and their parents will love an exciting day at Universal Studios.
No trip to Osaka with the family is complete without a trip to Kids Plaza, an indoor complex with everything from slides and interactive science exhibits to tunnels and a giant mock TV studio. A definite favourite, and a great place to explore on a rainy day.
Those who visit for the history and culture will not be disappointed by Osaka Castle. The well-known castle is often the first stop, and visitors can visit the museum inside and learn about the unification of Japan in the 16th century and it's history since. One of the most famous sights in the city, the castle's grounds also contains beautiful gardens which offer a peaceful moment of relaxation in the middle of the bustling metropolis.
Shitennō-ji Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in the city and Osaka's best known. Its creation can be traced back to 59AD and has been constantly rebuilt and renovated through its history. Today highlights of a visit include a tour of the Pagoda, traditional paintings and exquisite ceramics.
Many people visit Osaka for its world-famous food, and rightfully so. It has some of the most delicious and interesting food in Asia and is known throughout the country as 'Japan's Kitchen'. The areas surrounding the city covers almost every type of terrain-low-lying plains, mountains and oceans, offering easy access to many unique kinds of animals and crops, so it's no small wonder the food is so interesting and fresh. Those keen to try some specialties should head to Ami-moto Bekkan, which serves any crab dish imaginable. Wander along the streets of the city center and sample some of the world's best street food such as fried chicken, 'Osaka-style'okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), takoyaki (octopus bites) and the famous and ever popular varieties of yakitori. Also, be sure not to miss the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, with more flavours of ramen than your imagination could possibly entertain.
Visitors throughout the year are able to experience some incredible festivals and events; no matter when you visit, there will surely be something to catch your eye.
There's no place in the world quite like Osaka, it is definitely a destination that needs to be experienced to be believed.
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