Is Osaka a Small or Big City?

Osaka is the economical and commercial capital of Japan and the third-largest city in the country after the Greater Tokyo Area. As such, it is a very large city, with more than 2.6 million people living in it and the Greater Osaka area taking up over 117,000 hectares of land. It is home to a number of major corporations and businesses and is one of the most important cities in Japan for transportation, finance, commerce, media, entertainment and education.

Although it is not Japan’s largest city by population – that honor goes to Tokyo – Osaka is often regarded as Japan’s “second city” because of its great economic importance. Located on the eastern side of the main island of Honshu, Osaka also has some of Japan’s greatest tourist attractions, such as Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Castle.

The size of Osaka is staggering when compared to other major cities in Japan. It’s much larger than Nagoya and Fukuoka, commonly regarded as medium-sized cities in the country. In addition to its massive population, the city area stretches out over 821.9 km2 (317.86 sq mi), making it larger than the Tokyo Metropolitan area (2,188 km2 (844.91 sq mi)).

The city is made up of several neighborhoods with their own unique character. The downtown area of Umeda has a lot of commercial and financial activity, while Nakanoshima is mainly known for its museums and art galleries. Namba is the nighttime entertainment district, home to clubs and bars. These areas combine to make up modern Osaka, which has a diversity that matches its size.

Osaka is a dynamic and vibrant city, with plenty of attractions and amenities for its large population of residents and tourists alike. It’s got both the hustle and bustle of a major metropolis, plus a rich cultural heritage. If you’re looking for an exciting urban experience in Japan, Osaka is definitely worth checking out!

Though it might not seem like a small city, Osaka’s size makes it highly accessible when compared to Tokyo. Whereas Tokyo is often thought to be overwhelming due to its size, Osaka is renowned for being relatively easy to get around thanks to its excellent public transportation system. This makes Osaka an ideal destination for tourists wishing to explore Japan without having to worry too much about getting lost or having difficulty navigating the city.

The question of whether Osaka is a small or big city cannot easily be answered with a simple yes or no. It depends on how you look at it: it may not be one of the biggest cities in Japan, but its size and influence still make it a major player in Japanese culture and a major destination for tourists from all over the world.

To learn more about Osaka, Japan Visitor provides an excellent overview here. It includes detailed information on the city’s history, culture and sights, so be sure to take a look if you’re interested in finding out more about this fascinating city!

Insider’s Guide to Osaka, Japan

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you may be wondering whether Osaka is a small or big city. With a population of over 19 million, Osaka is the third-largest city in Japan, after Tokyo and Yokohama. Located on the island of Honshu, Osaka is known for its historic sites, cultural experiences, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a look at some of the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that Osaka has to offer.

Attractions

Osaka Castle is a must-visit attraction in Osaka. The castle was built in the late 16th century and served as the residence of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a Japanese warrior and politician. Visitors can explore the castle’s expansive grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Another popular attraction is the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, which is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Here, visitors can see a wide range of sea creatures, including whale sharks, manta rays, and penguins.

For a more serene experience, consider heading to the stunning Shitennoji Temple. As one of the oldest temples in Japan, Shitennoji Temple has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. Visitors can explore the serene gardens, admire the architecture and immerse themselves in Japanese culture. A popular attraction for families and adventure enthusiasts is Universal Studios Japan. Here, you can experience the magic of Hollywood and immerse yourself in the world of your favorite movies and TV shows.

Dining Spots

Osaka is known for its delicious food, and visitors should be sure to try some of the local cuisine. One must-try dish in Osaka is takoyaki, which are small balls of batter filled with diced octopus and other ingredients. Other popular dishes include okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with vegetables, noodles, and meat or seafood. For a more upscale dining experience, consider visiting Kitashinchi, an exclusive area in downtown Osaka that is home to some of the city’s best restaurants.

For a unique dining experience, head to the Kuromon Market, a lively market that has been selling fresh seafood, produce, and other goods for over 100 years. Here, you can find dozens of food stalls and restaurants that serve up some of the freshest and tastiest food in Osaka.

Cultural Experiences

Osaka is home to many cultural experiences that visitors should not miss. Take a stroll through the Dotonbori district, where you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers. During the day, you can also explore the historic neighborhoods of Shinsekai and Namba, which are known for their lively street scenes and delicious food.

One cultural experience that you may want to consider is staying in a traditional Japanese ryokan. These inns offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, where you can sleep on a futon mattress, wear a yukata (a Japanese robe), and bathe in a communal hot spring bath.

Local History

To learn more about Osaka’s rich history, consider visiting the Osaka Museum of History, which showcases the city from ancient times to the present day. Another interesting historic site is the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, which is one of Japan’s oldest shrines and is known for its distinctive style of architecture.

For a more somber experience, consider visiting the Osaka Human Rights Museum, which is located in a former prison and tells the story of human rights violations and abuses in Japan and around the world.

Off the Beaten Path

For those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations, consider visiting the Osaka Bay Area. Here, you can find a range of attractions, including the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Osaka Maritime Museum. You can also take a ferry to the nearby island of Awaji, which is known for its scenic beaches, hot springs, and delicious seafood.

Another off-the-beaten-path destination is the Mount Koya, a mountain village that is home to over 100 temples and shrines. Visitors can stay in a traditional temple lodging, participate in Buddhist ceremonies, and enjoy the serene mountain scenery.

In conclusion, Osaka is a big city with a lot to offer visitors. With its rich history, cultural attractions, delicious food, and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Osaka is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan.