After spending 6 days in Tokyo, we had another amazing 5 days in Osaka. We have discovered this city as well as its neighboring area. The distance between two cities is 500 km and it took only 3 hours by train. We have traveled by the world-famous bullet train Shinkansen. Let see what was our experience and what you can see in Osaka!
Travelling by Shinkansen
Travelling by bullet train is the best choice to travel between the two cities. The trains are running at speeds of up to 280-320 km/h, which is basically more than 3 times more than the Hungarians. The seats were comfy, the staff was polite so the journey was all-in-all really good.
Tickets - Japan Rail Pass
The bullet train tickets are not cheap (even by Japanese standards), but if you are eligible to buy Japan Rail Pass it is included. There are 7, 14 and 21 days of rail passes, which means you can have unlimited access to any JR line in the country (except two types of Shinkansen lines). It is a pretty good deal actually because besides most of the Shinkansen lines it includes commuter lines and even airport transfer in Tokyo. We have bought the 7-days pass and it was really priceworthy.
I highly recommend to buy JR pass before the travel, because it is a lot cheaper. They have got official retailers around the world who issue a voucher for you after the purchase, what you can exchange to the pass at any JR offices in Japan.
Besides, the trains have got both reserved and non-reserved seats as well. You can book seats before the departure at any JR office and it is free for Japan Rail Pass holders. Don't get panicked if the reserved cars are fully booked, there is a pretty good chance to sit in the non-reserved area, you just have to stand in the queue before departure. This have also happened to us many times and always got a seat.
Popular Japanese dish in Osaka - Okinomiyaki
We sampled local specialties as well. This meal is available all over Japan, but you can find the most popular places in Osaka and Hiroshima.
Okinomiyaki is a pan-fried dish that consists of batter and cabbage. (Source: japan-guide.com) Japanese usually call it pancake in English, but this is far from traditional European/US pancakes. This is rather salty than sweet. There are several topping available e.g. octopus, shrimp, yam or kimchi. It is really worth a try.
Top sights in Osaka
Osaka has its pros and cons: it has few yet amazing historical sights, it is more affordable than Tokyo and Kyoto in terms of food and accommodation, moreover you can easily travel to near cities like Kyoto and Nara. Here are the most important sights:
1. Osaka Castle
Osaka castle is fascinating gem of the city. I really liked this beauty castle, what has got very interesting history as well.
If you are interested in Japan's history, the castle's exhibition is highly recommended. Ticket is 600 yen (approx. 5 EUR). The whole exhibition is detailed, comprehensive and understandable. You should start at the top of the tower and descend to lower floors because the history of the castle chronologically detailed from up to down. (Opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm everyday)
Historical background:
The construction of the castle was started in 1583 by Hideyoshi Toyotami. It was an important military base for several families and shoguns, destroyed and rebuilt many times during its history. (Source: Osakacastle.net) I don't want to spoil it for you so make sure to check the exhibition for more detailed information!
2. Shinnetoji Temple
The Shinnetoji Temple is the one of the oldest buddhist temple in Japan. You can walk around the temple for free, but if you would like to see the inner places you have to pay 300 yen ( 2.5 EUR). (Opening hours: 8:30 -16:30)
There were only few tourist around the temple, so it was quite, peaceful and easy to enjoy the sight of beautiful buildings. The cherry trees still flourished, the weather was very pleasant and the whole place had a really interesting vibe.
3. Dotonbori
Dotonbori is the best district for eating out, explore the night life and shopping stores in one places. This area is famous for neon light and extravagant signs as well. There are many gaming and other entertainment centers in the area.
We have spent 1.5 half day in Osaka with sightseeing, while the rest of the days we have visited other cities e.g. Nara, Kyoto, Hiroshima.
Next up: Nara
Comments