Osaka: A Travel Review of a Charming City Full of Joy and Delicious Food

Hello everyone! Today, I’m excited to share my personal experience from my trip to Osaka. Let me tell you, Osaka is such a lovely city that has everything you could ever want—delicious food, fun attractions, great shopping, and an authentic taste of Japanese culture. Let’s start from day one! ⸻ Day 1: Arrival at Kansai Airport and Exploring Dotonbori! After flying from Bangkok to Kansai Airport, I was thrilled because this was my first time visiting Osaka. Once I cleared immigration, I hopped on the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service train to the city. It took about an hour to reach Namba Station, one of Osaka’s most popular areas. Stepping out of the station, I was greeted by the vibrant lights and signs of Dotonbori. The lively atmosphere felt just like a scene from a Japanese drama! I quickly headed to take a photo with the iconic Glico Man sign—it’s a must-do when visiting Dotonbori. As I wandered through the bustling streets, the aroma of takoyaki caught my attention. I couldn’t resist trying some, and wow—it was amazing! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, with plenty of octopus filling and a perfectly balanced flavor. I couldn’t stop smiling as I ate. I continued strolling and discovered various Japanese snacks and street food, including cookies, mochi, and red bean-filled pastries. Sampling these treats while walking along the canal with its beautifully lit bridges made the experience even more delightful. ⸻ Day 2: Universal Studios Japan—Nonstop Fun and Smiles! Today was all about the theme park! I visited Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and had pre-purchased tickets to skip the lines—super convenient. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by a colorful world straight out of the movies. My favorite area was the Harry Potter World. The massive Hogwarts castle and misty atmosphere were just like the films. Riding the train around the castle was thrilling, and I couldn’t miss trying the famous “Butterbeer.” It tasted sweet and creamy, like a fizzy cream soda with a rich aroma. Next, I explored the newly opened Super Nintendo World, which felt like stepping into a Mario game. The Mario Kart ride was so immersive that I almost forgot to breathe—it’s a must-visit for theme park lovers! ⸻ Day 3: A Relaxing Day at Osaka Castle and Charming Vintage Cafés Today, I decided to switch gears and explore some history. I visited Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city. The white castle stood majestically in the middle of a vast, serene park, perfect for a leisurely stroll. I climbed to the top floor of the castle to enjoy a 360-degree view of Osaka. The mix of urban buildings and lush greenery was stunning, and I couldn’t resist taking plenty of photos. Afterward, I headed to Nakazakicho, a quaint area filled with vintage cafés and shops. I visited Café Taiyounotou, which had a cozy, homey vibe. Their menu featured a variety of cakes and drinks, and I ordered a latte and a soft, creamy cheesecake—so delicious I had to recommend it! ⸻ Day 4: Shopping Bliss at Shinsaibashi and City Views at Umeda Sky Building For shopping enthusiasts, Shinsaibashi Shopping Street is a must-visit. The long street is lined with fashion boutiques, cosmetics stores, and adorable souvenir shops. I shopped until my hands were full! Japanese souvenirs here are abundant, including mochi, chocolates with cute packaging, and more. Don’t forget to grab some goodies to take home. In the evening, I went to Umeda Sky Building to enjoy the city views from its floating observatory. The sunset view was breathtaking, with golden hues spreading across Osaka—a perfect spot for capturing unforgettable memories. ⸻ Day 5: Preparing to Leave but Filled with Wonderful Memories On my last day before heading back to Thailand, I browsed for souvenirs at Shin-Osaka Station. The station had a wide variety of snacks and gifts, from mochi and cakes to unique and charming items—it was hard to choose! As I took the train back to Kansai Airport, I reminisced about all the amazing moments I had in Osaka. I hope to return to this wonderful city soon. ⸻ Final Thoughts Osaka truly is a city full of charm and happiness, offering delicious food, thrilling theme parks, beautiful attractions, and diverse shopping experiences. If you’re looking for a well-rounded trip to Japan, I highly recommend Osaka as a top choice. I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this city just like I did!