Discovering Osaka, the second most cosmopolitan city in Japan: between tours in parks, shopping and views from above!
Japan has always fascinated me with its culture and traditions, like wait for midnight on New Year's at the temple, to hear the 108 strokes; the yukata; stories about samurai loyalty and honor; and why not, even the school uniform, which on those unheard wake-up mornings would have easily solved the dilemma of what I put in front of the closet. THE manga, the anime and Japanese cuisine.
With the post I accompany you discovering Osaka, in Kansai region. Here are the 5 activities not to be missed in Osaka.
1. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park
The idea of creating a green area that connected the two areas of Umeda and Namba was born towards the end of the 121,8s. Over the years, with the urban development and the increase in population, the creation of a green area has become a priority. In the seventies the expropriation of land began to enlarge the area, which today is XNUMX hectares. Inside is what has been defined as the largest greenhouse in Japan, a flower garden with species from all over the world.
It also houses theHanamizuki Hall / Water Hall, located on the first floor of theInternational Flower and Green Expo, which also contains the Murasaki Aoi, a tea room overlooking the park. Among grassy expanses, poplar trees, Japanese elm, acorn and almond trees, there are paths and an area equipped for children.
2. Osaka Castle Park
Another green lung of the city, theOsaka Castle Park it is easily accessible by both the underground and the Japanese Rail. The stops involved are Tenmabashi, Morinomiya, Kitazume.
3. Dotonbori
The Dotonbori district was born in the early twenties of the sixteenth century, in the Minami area. It bears the name of its creator who never saw it completed, because the work ended post mortem. When urban development began in the Edo period, numerous theaters arose here, which brought kabuki theater back to the fore.
Dotonbori is in fact known as the Japanese Broadway.
Some theaters have ceased all activity over the years, many others are crowded every night, like the Kadoza, Kabukiza and Yoshimoto Comedy Theater. In this area there are also jazz clubs such as the New Suntory Five in Ohatsutenjin shopping street. Finally, the area is also known for its LED signs and huge dolls, such as the Kuidaore Tarou, who plays the bell and the trumpet. You can't miss good food. The inhabitants of Osaka are very attentive to the choice of ingredients, since the territory is a real resource, thanks to the climate that helps the crops.
4. Universal Studio Japan
For an adrenalinic parenthesis, one cannot be missing visit to Universal Studio Japan. Inside the playground there are 67 themed attractions, including Minion, Jurassic Park and Harry Potter. To shorten the long queues at attractions, bring your own Universal Express Pass.
5. Harukas 300
To fully enjoy one top view of the city, you must visit theHarukas 300, reachable by shuttle from the second floor of the Abeno Harukas Tower.
Shopping tips
Finally, here are some indications for your shopping. The Shinseka districti is full of shops, restaurants and clubs; as well as one of the best known indoor shopping streets, such as lo Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade.
