Travel plan for first timers in Osaka

Enshrining the God of Scholarship, many students taking examinations come to pray every year. Along with the shrine being a famous place for plum blossoms from February to March, the Tenjin Festival, one of Japan’s 3 major festivals, is held here in summer.

Known as one of the truly famous castles, it had been burned down during the winter and summer sieges of the castle in the 17th century but then was rebuilt. The major Heisei Era restoration of the keep has been completed resulting in a beautiful structure. From there, a full view of Osaka can be seen.

A market where the high-spirited voices of Osaka merchants can be heard while enjoying noshing on various foods. Kuromon Market is set up as an arcade street so it can be enjoyed even on rainy days.

When it comes to Osaka, this is the place that always comes to mind as the best place to get a shot of Osaka with the famous Glico signboard. It is also a great place to walk while eating something. The famous udon restaurants are also recommended.

The Kansai mecca for youth culture. Not just an area for individualistic Western clothing shops and general stores, it is also an interesting site for original objets d’art and architecture.

When it comes to the reputation of Osaka as being a place to easily indulge in food and drink, Umeda is just another of those famous areas. In the foodie area of Shin-Umeda, there are famous restaurants cozily lined up. The rooftop Ferris wheel on the shopping building HEP FIVE is also fun.