Osaka: A Travel Review of Japan's City of Joy 💖

Hello everyone! Today, Boom is excited to share about a recent trip to Osaka. This city is absolutely charming—not just a typical big city, but one filled with vibrant fun, delicious food, and the warmth of its people that made the entire trip heartwarming. If you ask what’s worth visiting in Osaka, the answer is... so much that it needs to be shared day by day! ⸻ Day 1: Arrival at Kansai Airport—Welcome to Osaka! Landing at Kansai Airport, the first impression was "Wow!" The air was fresh, and the JR train from the airport to the city was super convenient. In just 40-50 minutes, I arrived at Namba, a bustling area for shopping and dining. The lively atmosphere, neon signs, and chatter of people made me feel so excited. For my first meal in Osaka, I couldn’t miss the famous Takoyaki—hot, round balls filled with tender octopus, topped with rich sauce and creamy mayonnaise. It was absolutely delicious, like tasting something magical! Then, I tried Okonomiyaki, a Japanese pancake mixed with vegetables, pork, and sweet sauce. The portion was huge and very satisfying. Walking around Dotonbori, I saw the iconic red Glico Man sign, a must-see landmark in Osaka. The vibrant lights and sounds created a stunning scene. ⸻ Day 2: Thrills at Universal Studios Japan! Today, I headed to Universal Studios Japan (USJ), a famous attraction in Osaka. Just stepping through the gates felt like entering a magical world. My favorite zone was The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which was perfectly recreated from the movies! I strolled through Hogsmeade Village and explored Hogwarts Castle, feeling like a real wizard. I also tried Butterbeer, a creamy, sweet drink that was so refreshing. Another highlight was the Super Nintendo World, filled with vibrant colors and the Mario Kart ride, which was incredibly fun and brought back childhood memories. If you visit USJ, I highly recommend getting an Express Pass because the lines for rides can be very long. ⸻ Day 3: Shopping Extravaganza at Shinsaibashi For shopping enthusiasts, Shinsaibashi is a must-visit. This large fashion district has countless stores offering clothes, shoes, cosmetics, and adorable snack shops. I loved browsing cute Japanese-themed snack shops and couldn’t resist trying the famous soufflé pancakes. These fluffy, soft pancakes topped with fresh fruit sauce and whipped cream were perfectly sweet and refreshing. The lively atmosphere at Shinsaibashi, with bright shops and crowds, made it a great place to stroll and shop all day. ⸻ Day 4: A Day Trip to Kyoto Kyoto is very close to Osaka, so I opted for a day trip. My first stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Walking through the gates felt like stepping into a fairytale. Next, I visited Gion, the geisha district. I was lucky to see geishas elegantly walking in kimonos, which was so charming and felt like traveling back in time. ⸻ Day 5: Culinary Delights at Kuromon Ichiba Market I explored Kuromon Ichiba Market, a famous fresh food market. I tried grilled scallops with butter, crispy tempura shrimp, and fresh sushi that melted in my mouth. The lively market atmosphere, with vendors chatting and the aroma of food, made it a delightful place to wander and taste. If you visit Osaka, this market is a must-see for fresh and delicious food. ⸻ Day 6: Relaxing at Namba Parks and Shopping for Souvenirs at Don Quijote Before heading home, I visited Namba Parks, a mall with a beautiful rooftop garden perfect for photos and relaxation. Then, I went to Don Quijote, a one-stop shop for everything. I found adorable souvenirs, snacks, cosmetics, and Japanese keepsakes. ⸻ Tips for the Best Osaka Experience: • Get an ICOCA or Suica card for convenient train and bus rides. • Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll walk a lot. • Download translation and navigation apps to make traveling easier. • Bring your own reusable bag since Japan rarely provides free plastic bags. • Don’t miss local foods like Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and fresh sushi. ⸻ Osaka: A City Full of Joy 💕 Osaka is a city filled with warmth and fun—from friendly locals to delicious food that delights with every bite, and lively attractions. It felt like visiting a friend’s home full of happiness, and I can’t wait to return soon!