When you’re visiting a city like New York, your first instinct would be to have a tour of the most popular spots like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty or Rockefeller Center. Although there is absolutely nothing wrong in checking out what such places have to offer, it also pays to visit off-the-beaten path destinations and do activities which are not so popular among the tourists. This way, you will have more of a feel about what the place is all about.
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That is exactly what we will try to discover about Osaka, the third largest and second most important city in Japan. For many years, Osaka is recognizes as being an economic powerhouse in the Kansai region. The city was formerly known as Naniwa and it was this close to becoming Japan’s capital.
If it’s your first time visiting Osaka, there are many tourist-friendly places to visit and activities to indulge in. It has the largest IMAX movie theatre in the world, you can visit the Pacific Ocean tank, Osaka castle or take advantage of the many shopping opportunities that the city has to offer.
Top 7 Not-So-Usual Things to Do in Osaka
Now that you’re given a preview of what the city is all about, what are the off-the-beaten path destinations and not-so-touristy activities that you can indulge in while setting foot in this Japanese city? Here’s a preview:
1. Sample the local cuisine.
If it’s your first time in Japan, remember that Osaka is only a three-hour ride away by bullet train. So what should be the first item on your itinerary? It’s none other than getting your fill of what the local cuisine has to offer!
First, there’s okonomiyaki which is a savory grilled pancake. It’s a family recipe that has been passed down from one generation to the next – and it will be a shame if you’ll leave Japan without sampling this treat. Second, there’s Takoyaki which are grilled octopus balls – any major street has a stand where you can buy these. To cap it all off, try Yuzu which is a citrus fruit whose taste lies somewhere between a lemon and a tangerine. This is infused in alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, so get your fill with every meal.
2. Shop your heart out.
Whether you’re into vintage stuff or if you are after the more traditional shopping experience, Osaka is definitely the place to be. Check out Shinsaibashi’s Shopping Arcade where they sell vintage items, as well as the EST shopping town near Umeda Station.
3. Have a taste of Japanese pop culture.
Whether or not you’re into anime, the Pokemon Center says it all about Japanese pop culture – so make sure to pay it a visit.
4. Have some family-oriented fun.
Visit one of the largest aquariums in the world in Osaka, the Kaiyukan where you will have a blast with the entire family.
5. Get a glimpse of old Japan.
A must-visit destination when venturing out into Osaka is the Osaka Castle. It’s a sight to behold during the cherry blossom season.
6. Go bar hopping or visit one of the odd nightclubs in Osaka.
Want to sample Osaka’s nightlife? Take your pick from hard rock bars, alternative clubs or gay bars where you can either stand out or meld with the crowd.
7. Be one with nature.
Finally, located to the west of Osaka is the Oji Zoo which is home to adorable panda bears and other animals.
Whether you’re a return visitor or if it is your first time in Osaka, these things will get you really deep into the culture of Japan and into the beautiful world that is all Osaka’s own.