Top 5 Things to DO or SEE in Osaka

Small Note: I'm back from my almost 2 weeks hiatus mode. Done with my exam and now I can start blogging. Yipee!

Since AirAsia X has just commenced their new route to Osaka, Japan end of last November, I really felt wanna go again after saw the promotion price for less than RM650 for the return flight. It is damn freaking cheap, seriously. Since ever my maiden visit in Autumn 2010, I really wish go and revisit Japan again especially Osaka, as it is also the main getaway to Kyoto, Nara and even Kobe.

Hence, I decided to resume my blog by starting my humble sharing of the top 5 things to Do or See in Osaka, based on my own personal experience:

1. Osaka Castle

Known as Osaka-jo in Japanese language, this is another classic style of the Japanese castle. Osaka Castle is Osaka's famous landmark and even it is notable to be the symbol of the city with its 500-years incredible history. The castle even features museum where you can see historical artifact. The most recommended season to visit will definitely during the spring season as the castle will be surrounding with magnificent sakura blossom bloom, which usually takes place in early of April.

Opening hours: 9:00 am - 5.00 pm
Admission: 600 yen
How to get there: The closest JR station to Osaka Castle is Osakajokeo on the JR Loop Line.

 
2. Umeda Sky Building 
Stands upon 173 meter tall, Umeda Sky Building is the most amazing piece of architecture featuring two 40-storey towers in the district of Osaka. The two main towers are connected with each other by The Floating Garden, a rooftop observatory on the 39th floor. However, too bad this place is not recommended for those who afraid of height because during getting to the top, you will experience see-through glassed-in escalator for the final five floor storeys.

The open air observatory offers a great and spectacular night view of Osaka City.

Opening hours: 10:00 am - 10.30 pm (entrance until 10:00 pm)
Admission: 700 yen
How to get there: 10 minutes on foot from JR Osaka Station or Hankyu Umeda Station.

3. Shinsaibashi Shopping

Shopping from head to toe, shopping till you'll drop will be the most probably especially to the ladies that it is hardly to avoid when visiting this shopping haven in Osaka. Shinsaibashi Shopping Center is the largest shopping area in Osaka which extends up to 580 meters in a north-south direction and approximately 180 stores including old-established shops, department stores, and those selling major brand products such as Shiseido and Kose which stand next to each other. One unique and vibrant shopping experience shouldn't to be miss.

  4. Dontobori

Another Osaka's most famous tourist spot, Dotonbori is the most happening and liveliest area when the day turns to night. This single street runs through the Dotonbori canal is packed with many restaurants and become the main destination for both domestic and foreign tourists for a food hunt in Osaka. What Dotonbori amazed me was the hundreds of colourful neon lights and advertisement signboards brighten up the street during the night time, including the famous Glico Running Man sign and Giant Crawling Crab sign.

5. Okonomiyaki & Takoyaki

Just like Tokyo is famous for sushi, Osaka is non-exemption for that too. A must try Osaka's famous local delicacies, Okonomiyaki (Japanese savoury pancake) which to be known as "Osaka Soul Food" and Takoyaki (octopus ball) when visiting the city of Japan's spiritual heartland. These two dishes are belief originated from Osaka and being popularised by a street vendor sinceafter.

So, interested going to Osaka, Japan and wanna experience all the above?

Frankly speaking, even myself would definitely love to make another revisit again to cover some other area which I miss out during my first visit including;

Universal Studio Osaka, the first theme park located outside USA

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Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest public aquarium in the world

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Till then, sayonara and hopes you guys enjoy reading of my this small lil sharing!