Discover Hidden Gems in Osaka: A Guide to the City’s Lesser-Known Attractions
Osaka is known for its delicious food, energetic people, and unique tourist attractions.
In this issue, we would like to introduce you to some of the most popular tourist attractions, but also some of the less well-known and fascinating spots.
There are actually many highlights hidden in places that are usually overlooked.
Through this article, discover a new aspect of Osaka tourism and plan an even more enjoyable trip.
Namba Grand Kagetsu, the Hall of Laughter
Laughter is an essential element when talking about Osaka.
The Namba Grand Kagetsu is renowned as the “Hall of Laughter.
As the home of Yoshimoto Kogyo, a major entertainment company, many comedians continue to perform on stage.
Every day, various comedians provide live laughter, and there is a sense of presence that can only be experienced in that moment.
Comedy on TV is fun, but the appeal of live comedy performances is exceptional.
The way the act changes in response to the audience’s reaction is truly the best part of a live performance.
For example, you can feel the enthusiasm that you cannot experience on TV, such as the manzai of a popular comedy duo or a young comedian’s first stage performance.
This is a must-visit place for comedy lovers.
You will surely be captivated by comedy if you experience the realistic feeling you have never experienced before.
Unique Namba Yasaka Shrine
When it comes to sightseeing, Japanese people tend to think of “shrines and temples.
One of the most unique shrines in Namba is Namba Yasaka Shrine.
The highlight of this shrine is the Kurumadono, which is shaped like a lion’s head.
The large lion’s head is powerful and a popular photo spot, especially among foreign tourists.
This is why many tourists visit the shrine every day.
With its medicinal and luck-building benefits, you will feel a sense of lightness just by visiting the shrine.
For example, it is good to visit the shrine to pray for safety during your trip or to improve your luck.
Although located in the city of Osaka, you can spend a peaceful time in a quiet atmosphere.
There is a special experience here that is different from ordinary shrines.
America Mura, a center of youth culture
America Mura is a place that symbolizes Osaka’s youth culture.
Located just a short distance from Earthquake Bridge Station, it is an area where unique fashion and art gather.
The street art and vintage stores are particularly popular, and just strolling around gives you a sense of the unique atmosphere of the city.
For example, Triangle Park, a symbolic spot in Ame-mura, is crowded day and night and is a place for young people to mingle.
There is always something new to discover here, such as the sudden start of live painting or cosplay events.
A variety of fashion stores offer shopping opportunities, bringing together the latest trends from Japan and abroad.
The free and open air that flows there stimulates the creativity of visitors.
You will get new ideas and discoveries by visiting America-mura, a vibrant place for young people.
The appeal of Osaka’s famous takoyaki
No visit to Osaka would be complete without takoyaki.
One of the most recommended takoyaki is “Kukuru” takoyaki.
There are many stores scattered throughout the city, and there is even one at Shin-Osaka Station, making it easy to stop by.
Kukuru’s takoyaki are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and once you try one, you will surely be captivated by its deliciousness.
Another recommendation, Koga-ryu, is not to be missed.
There are multiple locations here as well, and you can enjoy variations filled with cabbage and other ingredients.
The Takoyaki Museum, where you can compare many takoyaki restaurants in one food court, is also popular.
The pleasure of comparing takoyaki and finding your favorite takoyaki is one of the best parts of sightseeing in Osaka.
Sitennoji Temple, where you can feel the progress of history
Sitennoji Temple, accessible in about 30 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station, is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan.
The temple’s history stretches back more than 1,400 years, and it is believed to have been built by Emperor Shotoku Taishi during the reign of Emperor Suiko.
The temple is particularly unique in its four-temple galang arrangement, with a straight line from south to north, an architectural style that is rare in Japan.
For example, the beautiful five-story pagoda and the garden, whose expression changes with the seasons, are a delight to visitors.
Sitennoji is also an important place of prayer for local people, and various events are held there throughout the year.
Giving visitors a sense of the weight of history in a tranquil atmosphere allows them to forget the hustle and bustle of the modern world and spend precious time calming their minds.
The Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, where nature and art coexist
The Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, spread out on the site of the Osaka Expo, allows visitors to enjoy nature in all seasons within its vast grounds.
One of its attractions is the Tower of the Sun, created by Taro Okamoto.
The huge 70-meter-high tower overwhelms visitors with its power.
The inside of the tower has its own unique exhibits and is well worth a visit.
The park also has a Japanese garden and an ethnographic museum that offer visitors much to learn and be impressed by.
Although it is a bit far from the center of Osaka, many travelers find it a spot worth taking the time to visit.
That’s all for now, we have introduced some of Osaka’s unknown and fascinating spots.
Some of these places do not usually get much attention, but if you actually visit them, new discoveries and impressions await you.
Osaka still hides many secrets.
We invite you to experience a new aspect of Osaka.
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