Osaka, Japan

Just an hour ride from Kyoto is Osaka. When researching Japan, I frequently saw Osaka so I decided to give it a go. Unfortunately, Osaka did not live up to my expectations - especially after a great time in Kyoto!

You won't find nature in Osaka unless you really dig and travel far outside the city. I felt like Osaka was a lesser version of Tokyo. If I could go back, I would have just skipped Osaka all together. But trying to make the most of my time, here is what I did...

Things To Do

1. Osaka Castle

This castle is pretty from the outside and provides great views while inside the property but the castle itself is disappointing. There is nothing exciting here, the only saving grace is an amazing musician playing the Didjeridoo (Australian instrument).

Free to get in but it cost to go inside the actual castle part.

2. Dōtonbori

This is the "downtown" area where everything happens. Like I said, it's a lesser version of Tokyo but there are still some good vibes and night lights to see here. Walk around, let your nose and eyes lead you!

3. Nakanoshima

Nakanoshima is a river that is surrounded by tall city buildings and parks. I spent a couple afternoons here reading and blogging - mostly because it was one of the only grassy parks in Osaka.

To be honest, it was overwhelmingly hot most days in Osaka and this was a nice place to just chill and catch my breath.

4. Kuromon Ichiba Market

Another busy, typical Japanese market to explore! Surprisingly though, the prices for market food are very expensive! I tried out a spam burger - it was alright. This is where you can expand your culinary horizon and try eel, scallops, egg-stuffed-squid, tonkatsu, etc!

5. Minooo Falls

This was one of the only slivers of nature I found in Osaka - and it did not disappoint. It was about an hour ride from the city but worth it! The train took me closer to the mountains and into adorable, small neighborhoods. The "hike" is less than an hour and is more like a stroll on a dirt path. They have a couple food stands and bathrooms along the way also.

Beware of monkeys!! One second you're eating a sandwich and the next a monkey is strutting straight for you to steal your food! I was about to become a victim until some kind strangers came to my rescue and shooed the monkey away with an umbrella.

Unfortunately no swimming is allowed in the waterfall - boo. I've swam in much deeper and bigger waterfalls than this before, I don't understand Japanese rules sometimes.

6. Ebisu Tower

This ferris wheel tower thing is in Dōtonbori right on the water. After researching, I read that if you buy anything at the host store (Don Quijote), then you'll get to ride the ferris wheel for free. I asked a staff member and she confirmed yes but when I went to go ride, the ticket taker told me it is 600 yen regardless.

I did not end up riding but it looks like a great view of the city from the top!