Osaka

Osaka Travel Review: The City of Smiles, Fun, and Delicious Food 💖

Hello everyone! Today, I’m taking you to Osaka, a city full of vibrant colors, charming people, and unforgettable delicious food. I must say, Osaka is an easy city to get around, with plenty of attractions and beautiful photo spots that will make you want to capture every moment of your trip!

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Start with the ICOCA Card, your ultimate travel buddy

After landing at Kansai Airport, we quickly bought the ICOCA card, a rechargeable card for trains, buses, and even convenience store purchases. This card makes traveling super easy and fast. Plus, it works in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, which is very convenient.

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Cute accommodation in the heart of Namba

We booked a small place in Namba, the liveliest area of Osaka. The room was cute and compact but very well organized, with a soft bed to rest comfortably after a full day of exploring.

At night, opening the window revealed the sparkling neon lights of the city. Osaka’s night felt warm and romantic.

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Takoyaki… a must-eat snack!

When in Osaka, you have to try takoyaki at Dotonbori. This area is a takoyaki heaven with many shops to choose from. We tried a famous shop where the aroma of the sauce drifted from afar.

The takoyaki here is crispy outside, soft inside, with big, bouncy octopus pieces, topped with a sweet-savory sauce and creamy mayonnaise. The first bite was pure bliss—you really can’t stop eating!

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Okonomiyaki… a heartwarming Japanese pancake

Another must-try dish is okonomiyaki, a Japanese pancake mixed with vegetables, pork, egg, and a secret sauce, topped with mayonnaise and sprinkled with seaweed.

We ate at a small shop where the owner made it by hand. The taste was warm and comforting, like a homemade meal. It was so delicious we had to order another plate!

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Enjoy shopping at Shinsaibashi

Shinsaibashi is a shopping district filled with fashion, cute souvenirs, and trendy cafes. You can stroll around all day. We loved picking authentic Japanese souvenirs and sipping iced green tea—it was so relaxing.

Prices were affordable too, and we brought home lots of great finds.

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Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine… a peaceful retreat for the soul

For a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, we visited Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. The atmosphere was quiet and beautiful.

We wrote wishes on ema plaques, praying for health and good luck. Being surrounded by lush nature made us feel refreshed.

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Universal Studios Japan… a dream amusement park not to be missed

Universal Studios Japan is the ultimate fun spot, featuring Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World zones full of color and excitement.

We rode thrilling rides, laughed with friends, and took photos with adorable characters. It was a day filled with pure happiness.

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Nightlife at Dotonbori… vibrant lights and endless energy

At night, Dotonbori shines with colorful neon lights, music, and lively crowds.

We strolled along the canal, tasted snacks, and took photos with the Glico sign. The romantic atmosphere made us feel like Osaka never sleeps.

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Tips for a fun and easy Osaka trip
• Comfortable shoes are a must because you’ll walk a lot
• Use ICOCA or Kansai Thru Pass for convenient and cost-effective travel
• Download Google Maps and Hyperdia apps for easy route planning
• Be open to trying food from small roadside shops
• Carry water and a handkerchief to stay cool

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Summary of impressions

Osaka is not just a city with delicious food and many attractions; it’s full of smiles, warmth, and vibrant life that make you feel at home.

Every time I visit Osaka, I fill up on happiness and inspiration, returning with wonderful memories that will stay with me forever.

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Thank you for reading this review. I hope everyone gets inspired to travel to Osaka! じゃね！🇯🇵💕

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