Osaka

Osaka, Japan

Sitting in the heart of the Kansai region, Osaka the third-largest city in Japan. It could be the proximity to Korea, China, and the coast that has made it become known as the "Kitchen of Japan". Osaka's people have a true zest for life. They promote a casual air and ease and are slightly, unconventionally boisterous. Osaka is regenerating, now recognising its past beauty and working hard to re-establish it. This stimulating city that works to live is now more than ever a must-see.

Population:

2.691 million (2015)

Currency:

Japanese Yen (JPY)
¥100 ~ US$0,90

Emergency Numbers:

Emergency, Fire Brigade: 119
Police: 110

Opening Hours:

General business hours are from 7.30 to 16.30 and it is generally closed on Sundays. Banks are open from Monday to Friday between 9.00 and 15.00. Times may vary depending on store and bank.

Newspapers:

Osaka Globe
Daily Yomiuri

The City

Osaka is predominantly divided into wards. Kita, located in the north is primarily the business and commercial area, and Minami, in the south, is principally the shopping and entertainment hub of the city.

Architecturally this is a futuristic city, dynamic in spirit. However, more recently, it has been looking to its past – now restoring beautiful parks and public areas.

Osaka devours life, but in a leisurely way. Its people are often called “kuidaore,” meaning that they become poor because of their extravagance in eating and drinking. Shopping and eating are certainly preferred activities here.

Do & See

Shinsaibashi is the popular shopping area, Soemoncho is the entertainment neighbourhood and Dotombori is packed with theatres and restaurants. Here, you will come across the Shin-Kabukiza Theatre and the famous National Bunraku Puppet Theatre. Further south is the Shinsekai ward, where you cannot miss the 103-metre Tsutenkaku Tower, a recognised landmark of Osaka.

Dining

Due to its fertile land and close proximity to the sea, Osaka has always produced a copious amount of delicious ingredients. A particularly popular dish in Osaka is "Okonomi-yaki", a Japanese style pancake that contains a combination of meat, seafood, and vegetables, all covered in a tasty sauce. Take a seat in an Izakaya, the Japanese version of a pub, and try "Takoyaki" – balls of wheat batter containing octopus.

Bars & Nightlife

Osaka's never-ending, lively bar scene generally revolves around specific wards. Minami attracts the young, hip clientele whilst Kita tends to cater to a more mature crowd. Music and an innovative mixture of bar-come-nightclub venues are on offer to suit most trends, persuasions and moods, equipped to entertain you until the early hours of the evening, whatever you may be looking for. "Kampai!"