Favorite Corners - Osaka
Osaka is the third largest city in Japan and is filled with covered shopping streets, multi-level mall complexes, and lots and lots of food. Its location in the Kansai region makes it perfect for day trips out to explore places such as Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Himeji (all only an hour or two train ride away), but it's also worth setting aside some time to explore what else this lively city has to offer.
There are many places to take in a view of the city, but for something quick, easy and free, the lobby of the Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel is located in the 19th floor of Abeno Harukas, Japan's tallest building. NB: Abeno Harukas also has a paid observation deck on floors 58-60 for the ultimate views.
Nipponbashi (a.k.a. Den-den town). Looking for games, anime, manga, or electronics? This is the place, and we spent a whole day here.
Ah, Japan, land of the Pokemon. We stopped by the Pokemon Center to pay our respects and buy a few souvenirs.
When we walked by this place, there was disco music blaring, flashing neon lights, and windows covered at eye level. We wondered if it was a restaurant? A club? A place of shady dealings? Nope, its the neighborhood grocery store!
The Museum of Housing and Living lets you try on some traditional Japanese clothing for $5 which is much cheaper than the usual $30 rental fee and allowed us to walk around in the indoor re-created comfort of an old Osaka neighborhood.
Some of the most atmospheric places in Osaka are the little hole in the wall eateries. One little grill can feed an entire restaurant!
More places should have this type of criteria...
I'm a big fan of these peaceful shrines in the middle of crazy-busy city districts. In this case, we're in Dotonbori and this is Hozen-ji shrine. Stay a while in this little pocket of peace that is watched over by a moss-covered figure.
The lion head stage is the big thing to see here at Namba Yasaka Shrine. Definitely amps up the showmanship!
Osaka Castle. While the exterior looks suitably old, the whole inside has been converted into a modern museum dedicated to portraying the castle's history.
Last stop...Osaka Airport (KIX). We had some time to spare, so we took a free shuttle to the observation deck, grabbed a few drinks, and watched airplanes take off into the big blue yonder.