Osaka

Dive into the unstoppable appetite of Osaka, Japan’s undisputed “Kitchen of the Nation,” where Dotonbori canal glows with neon signs and the giant moving Glico Man billboard, takoyaki stalls sizzle beside okonomiyaki griddles, and the endless food scene delivers soul-warming kushikatsu skewers, fluffy soufflé pancakes, and melt-in-your-mouth sushi—all at wallet-friendly prices and with legendary “kuidaore” spirit (eat until you drop).

Explore the futuristic Umeda Sky Building’s floating garden observatory for panoramic city views, wander the historic Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms or autumn foliage, shop and people-watch in the bustling Shinsaibashi-suji arcade and Amerika-mura youth district, or take a day trip to Universal Studios Japan for Harry Potter magic and Super Nintendo World thrills—all in a city that perfectly balances high-energy urban buzz with warm Kansai hospitality and a sense of fun that never sleeps.

Savor crispy kushikatsu dipped in shared sauce (but never double-dip!), rich tonkotsu ramen, sweet imagawayaki cakes, and ice-cold Asahi beer amid lively izakayas, street-food alleys, and the unmistakable rhythm of a city that lives to eat, laugh, and welcome you like family.