Osaka: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Osaka is the third-largest city in Japan, after Tokyo and Yokohama. It has a population of over 2.7 million people and is located on the island of Honshu. Here in this blog post, we will answer some of the most common questions that travelers often have about visiting Osaka.

What are the Top Attractions in Osaka?

One of the most famous attractions in Osaka is Osaka Castle, which is a five-story, 16th-century castle that features a museum inside with displays of the castle’s long history. Another attraction worth visiting is Universal Studios Japan, which is a popular theme park that features numerous rides, shows, and attractions. Additionally, the Dotonbori area is a lively downtown district filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is also worth visiting, as it is one of the largest aquariums in the world and features a wide range of marine life species.

What is the Best Time to Visit Osaka?

The best time to visit Osaka is between March and May, and between September and November. During these months, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in the spring or the leaves changing their colors in the fall. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to avoid visiting during Golden Week (late April/early May) and Obon (mid-August).

How Far is Osaka from Tokyo?

The distance between Tokyo and Osaka is about 400 km. If you take the shinkansen (bullet train), the travel time is around 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a plane to Osaka or drive, but these methods will take longer.

What is the Currency Used in Osaka?

The currency used in Osaka is the Japanese yen (¥). You can exchange your currency at the airport, banks or exchange offices. However, it’s a good idea to carry cash with you since many places in Osaka do not accept credit cards.

What are the Local Customs in Osaka?

One of the customs in Osaka that travelers should be aware of is bowing. It’s common for people to bow when greeting each other or saying goodbye. Another custom is to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. Make sure to observe the signs indicating this custom. Tipping is also not customary in Osaka, and instead, it’s best to show appreciation with a polite thank you.

What is the Food Culture in Osaka?

Osaka is known for its street food, and one of the most famous dishes is takoyaki (octopus balls), which are small, round, fried balls made from a batter containing pieces of octopus, tempura bits, and green onion. Another famous dish is okonomiyaki (savory pancake), which is made from batter and a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, meat, seafood, and noodles. Osaka also has a robust sushi culture, and you can find a variety of sushi restaurants throughout the city.

How Safe is Osaka for Tourists?

Osaka is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your belongings unattended, and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Osaka, like most larger cities, has areas that are considered more dangerous, such as Shinsekai, so tourists should exercise caution when visiting these areas.

What is the Public Transportation System in Osaka?

Osaka has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and subways. The train system is called the Osaka Loop Line, which circles the city and connects to other train lines. The subway system also covers most parts of the city and is especially useful for getting around downtown areas quickly. It’s highly recommended to get a prepaid transportation card called the ICOCA card, which can be used on all public transportation systems in Osaka.

What Souvenirs Can I Buy in Osaka?

Some popular souvenirs to buy in Osaka include local snacks like Kit Kats in various unique flavors such as green tea, melon, or sakura (cherry blossom). Another popular souvenir is traditional Japanese crafts such as washi (Japanese paper) products, kokeshi dolls, and tenugui towels. Additionally, you can purchase locally produced items such as sake or green tea.

What is the Voltage in Osaka?

The voltage used in Osaka is 100 volts, which is the same as the rest of Japan. If you are coming from a country that uses a different voltage, you may need a voltage converter for your electronic devices, such as laptop or mobile phone charger.

Conclusion

Osaka is a vibrant city filled with fascinating culture, delicious food, and unique attractions. We hope that these frequently asked questions have been helpful in planning your trip to Osaka. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to ask a local or hotel staff. Have a wonderful trip in Osaka!