[dropcap]I[/dropcap]f you are looking for a unique place to get away, Osaka may be it. While most people traveling to Japan might think to go to Tokyo or Okinawa, Osaka is one of those hidden places where you will enjoy the best vacation of your life because of all its unique and interesting characteristics. There is so much to do that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. As Japan’s second largest city, it has 3 million people inhabiting the city at once, but it won’t feel like it with its small-town charm. Consider traveling to Osaka and enjoying these hidden features for a once in a lifetime journey.
Highlights Of Osaka
Learn Traditional Japanese Drumming
Make a reservation at the Taiko Lab and take an hour-long class on traditional Japanese drumming. You will learn about the instrument, its history, and how to play. It is even great for the whole family as children around 3 can even attend the class. By the time you are finished, you will be able to put on a short performance with what you learned. Where else in the world can you go to learn an instrument in just one hour?
Enjoy a Day at the Spa Like None Other in the World
Spa World is not just a spa, but a collection of spas and other features to help you relax and take some time for yourself. Differently themed spas represent different regions of the world and how they relax. The Asian Spa zone replicates traditional Persian and Bali spas while the European Spa zone represents places like Ancient Rome and Greece. There is also a restaurant, gym, amusement pool, and salons for you to enjoy.
Enjoy The Food, But Also Take It Home With You
Osaka is known as the “Nation’s Kitchen”. The food is what most people go there for as there are many great restaurants hidden away where you can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisines like Sukiyaki, sushi, and Miso soup. You can even learn to take the delicious food home with you by attending a workshop that teaches you how you can make your own Japanese food at home. The chefs speak good English so you will not miss anything. Take Osaka home with you by learning the basics of its yummy food.
Enjoy The Hidden Hospitality
Namba is said to the best area to stay in Osaka. It is located in the South District where you will find some of the best restaurants and most unique shops. The area is lively and can also get you where you need to go as it is close to subways and trains. Many of the Osaka hotels the area are rated 3 or 4 stars, so you know you will be staying in a great place where many people have rated the hospitality quite high. It also has easy access to the airport and is located conveniently to popular spots in the area so you can enjoy day trips.
Go Back in Time
The people of Osaka are very proud of their culture and history, so it’s no surprise that you can learn a lot about it while you are traveling there. Hozenji Yokocho is like a time machine where you can go back in time and see what life was like during the Edo period. Down the popular alleyway, there are traditional Japanese restaurants and taverns to make you feel like you are traveling back to one of the most well-known eras in Japanese history.
Cycle Osaka
If you would like to see the city and all of its famous landmarks, you can sign up for Cycle Osaka, which is a business that offers personalized bike tours of the city. Get your exercise as you learn about all the interesting places you can visit. Choose from a full day tour or a shorter 3-hour long tour. Your tour guide might surprise you by taking you to some of the city’s hidden gems that only locals know how to find. They can take you to popular places such as the Umeda Sky Building or Osaka Castle Park. This is a great opportunity to not only meet some of the local people, but also other tourists around the world.
Learn About Where Ramen Noodles Were Invented
The Instant Ramen Museum is a must-see attraction where you can learn about the famous instant noodles and their history. Not only is it enjoyable for adults, but children will also find the workshops and activities within the museum fun. You can even design your own Cup of Noodles and learn how to make Ramen by hand.
All in All
Osaka has many attractions and interesting sites that will lure visitors in to learn about its unique culture and history. It is truly a one of a kind vacation that you cannot experience anywhere else. No matter what you and your family like to do, you will find something there for everyone to enjoy.
Image Credits:
Million Mile Secrets, Pinterest, Pagliariniviaggi, Osaka Church
