Osaka: A Culinary Adventure in Japan's Kitchen
Osaka, renowned as "Japan's Kitchen," is a vibrant metropolis brimming with culinary delights and exciting experiences. This article delves into our 48-hour adventure, exploring the city's iconic foods, navigating the efficient public transport, and discovering hidden gems. Check out our vlog for more in-depth review of some of the amazing places and eats we discovered while in Osaka for 48 Hours.
Navigating the Shinkansen and Osaka's Subway System:
Our journey began with a thrilling ride on the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Osaka. While initially daunting, navigating the Japanese public transportation system proved surprisingly efficient. The Shinkansen, with its speed and comfort, offered a glimpse into Japan's advanced infrastructure.
Make sure to grab some snacks before you get on the Shinkansen because only the first class green car will have food options and they are limited and sell out quickly. Some additional insight for your first time on the bullet train is to bring a trash bag or sack for your rubbish with you. This is actually useful throughout Japan and not just the train. Trash cans are not as plentiful in Japan so you will to carry your trash.
The Bullet Train is pretty smooth but does rock from side to side, especially when another bullet train passes. There are restrooms on board and wifi is available as well, though we found it to be a bit slow.
A Culinary Odyssey: From Takoyaki to Okonomiyaki
Osaka's culinary scene is a feast for the senses. We indulged in the iconic Takoyaki, savoring the savory blend of octopus, batter, and sauces. Our culinary adventure continued at Okonomiyaki restaurants, where we experienced the art of creating these savory pancakes filled with a variety of ingredients. Truly some of the best food we had in Japan was from Osaka during our time there.
Dotonbori: A Neon-Lit Food Paradise:
Dotonbori, a vibrant district known for its dazzling neon lights and street food stalls, was an unforgettable experience. We sampled the legendary Dondurma, a stretchy ice cream that provides an entertaining spectacle. We also indulged in Kushikatsu, exploring the unique flavors of deep-fried skewers. Check out our full vlog to see more from where we ate. We highly recommend stopping by Dotonbori district for lunch or dinner. You should be aware that most restaurants don’t open early for “breakfast” in Japan. Traditionally the first meal is eaten at home so many restaurants don’t open till 10 or 11 am. You can always stop by a convience store or eat at your hotel in the morning as needed.
Beyond the Bites: Exploring Osaka's Culture
Beyond the culinary delights, Osaka offers a rich cultural tapestry. We visited the Namba Yasaka Jinja, a historic Shinto shrine, and marveled at the intricate details of its architecture. We also explored the vibrant Namba district, discovering hidden alleys and immersing ourselves in the local atmosphere. There is so much to do in Osaka that doesn’t include food but honestly the food was the primary driver of what we did while in Osaka.
Tips for First-Time Visitors:
Navigating the Subway: Purchase an ICOCA or PASMO card for seamless travel on the subway system.
Embrace the Local Cuisine: Venture beyond your comfort zone and try local specialties like Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and Kushikatsu.
Coin Purse Essentials: Carry a coin purse to manage the abundance of coins you'll encounter.
Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs, such as removing shoes when entering certain establishments.
Learn Basic Phrases: While many locals speak some English, learning basic Japanese phrases will enhance your interactions.
Osaka: A City of Contrasts
Osaka seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern dynamism. From the serene atmosphere of the Namba Yasaka Jinja to the vibrant energy of Dotonbori, this city offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t worry too much about getting lost because trust us you will get lost many times. Take a moment to explore where you are at and take in the views. We really enjoyed getting lost because we found some amazing things along our journey.