Things to Do in Osaka

Osaka Castle, reconstructed in 1931, sits on the same site where Toyotomi Hideyoshi unified Japan in the 16th century.

Dotonbori's iconic Glico Running Man neon sign has been a landmark since 1935 and is one of Japan's most photographed symbols.

Osaka is nicknamed 'Japan's kitchen' because it's historically been a major trading hub for fresh ingredients and has a strong street-food culture.

The city sits at the mouth of the Yodo River delta and was largely rebuilt after World War II bombing, making modern Osaka relatively young despite its ancient origins.

Okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls) originated or were perfected in Osaka's street-food scene.

Osaka is Japan's second-largest metropolitan area by population, with over 19 million people in the greater Kansai region.