Osaka has a large concentration of people, businesses and factories within its border, earning it a spot within what is known as the Keihanshin Industrial Zone. This zone of industry and innovation also includes neighboring Kyoto and Kobe.

Osaka’s nickname is “Tenka-no-Daidokoro,” or “the Nation’s Kitchen,” for the central role it once played in Japan’s rice trade. Osaka’s prominence continues today as the birthplace of financial conglomerates such as Obayashi and Takeda, and home to Big Electronics like Panasonic, Sharp and Sanyo.

And while industry is at its core, Osaka has much to offer with a unique atmosphere and a wide variety of attractions for repeat visitors and first-timers alike. Be sure to add these to your travel itinerary and sample a true taste of the warm and cheerful hospitality this city has to offer!

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle was constructed in 1597 under the founder Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536-1598). After a fire during the Summer War of 1615, the castle was destroyed. Today, the current 8-story castle, reconstructed in 1931, is a concrete reproduction modernized with elevators and interesting historical displays throughout.

Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai District

Shinsekai means “new world” in Japanese and compared to the city’s 1,600-year history, the district is relatively new.

Borrowing inspiration from the streets of Paris and Coney Island, the district is home to interesting architecture, housing many shops and restaurants.

At its center, Tsutenkaku Tower is a symbol of the district and offers sweeping views of the city from its observation deck, nearly 300 feet above ground. The tower has a souvenir shop and even a slide so you can get back down in record time to continue your exploration of the area.

Make time to enjoy the local specialty, kushikatsu, battered and deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers at one of the dozens of restaurants serving it up.

Shitennoji (Buddhist Temple)

Shitennoji temple built by Prince Shotokutaishi in 593 is one of Japan’s oldest and most important official Buddhist temples.

Although the temple buildings were destroyed many times throughout its history, whether due to fire or war, the reconstructions were true to the original structures. The current pagoda is the eighth generation rebuilt with reinforced concrete in 1963.  

Dotonbori District

Osaka is often called “Kuidaore no Machi,” or “Eat ‘til You Drop Town.” The moniker best describes Dotonbori, Osaka’s massive downtown area, which is chock full of eateries and runs for two miles along Dotonbori Canal in Namba Ward.

Take a walk along these busy, crowded streets and check out the giant colorful signboards that are a symbol of the area. They include the Glico Man and the 21-foot-diameter mechanical crab above Kani Doraku Crab restaurant.

At night, the illuminated signboards and neon lamps reflect on the canal, making this downtown even merrier. In the streets, there are theaters that play traditional puppet shows, called “bunraku,” storytellers’ halls and other popular entertainment as well as several movie theaters.

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