3 Days in Osaka Japan | Dotonburi | Osaka Castle | Umeda Sky Building | Travel With Me E3.1

3 Days in Osaka: A Journey through Japan's Vibrant Heart

Day 1: Arrival and First Glimpse of Osaka’s Bustling Energy

We arrived in Osaka and headed straight to the heart of the city, starting with Osaka Station and the Umeda underground shopping mall. This expansive underground labyrinth is a shopper’s paradise, with endless stores, cafes, and restaurants to explore. The combination of modern retail with traditional Japanese elements gave us a glimpse into Osaka’s unique character—futuristic yet rooted in history.

After working up an appetite, we wandered over to Nomoka food street, an inviting alley filled with cozy eateries offering authentic Japanese street food. From takoyaki (octopus balls) to kushikatsu (fried skewers), every bite was a taste of Osaka’s rich culinary tradition.

We then checked in at Villa Fontaine Grand Osaka Umeda, a sophisticated hotel offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s vibrant energy. In the evening, we ventured into the lively Dotonbori area, one of Osaka’s most famous districts. Walking along the Dotonbori River and across the iconic Ebisubashi Bridge, the neon signs and buzzing atmosphere of Ebisubashi-suji Shopping Street captivated us. The sensory overload of lights, sounds, and smells set the perfect tone for our Osaka adventure.

Day 2: Exploring History and Iconic Landmarks

Day two began with a visit to Osaka Castle, an impressive structure steeped in history. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats, the castle grounds offered a peaceful contrast to the urban environment we’d explored the day before. The castle itself, with its towering architecture and exhibitions, gave us a deeper understanding of Japan’s feudal history and Osaka’s role within it.

Next, we moved to Shinsekai, an old-school neighborhood that feels like stepping back in time. With its retro atmosphere, vibrant streets, and iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, Shinsekai offered a look at Osaka’s past, with restaurants and arcades lining the streets. The lively energy and mix of old and new was a highlight of the trip.

In the afternoon, we visited the Umeda Sky Building, one of Osaka’s most unique architectural wonders. The Floating Garden Observatory at the top provided a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, particularly as the sun set, casting a golden glow over Osaka’s skyline.

To finish the day, we indulged in a dinner experience like no other at Ichiran Ramen, known for its dedication to crafting the perfect bowl of tonkotsu ramen. With a focus on privacy and flavor, this was a culinary highlight, offering one of the best ramen experiences in the world.

Day 3: A Journey to Nara and Final Osaka Explorations

On the third day, we took a short trip to Nara, a city famous for its temples, deer park, and rich cultural heritage. While we spent much of the day there (a separate video covers our Nara exploration), we returned to Osaka in the afternoon to continue discovering the wonders of the Umeda town center. The energy of the area, with its vast array of shops and entertainment options, was the perfect way to conclude our trip.

In just three days, we had experienced the vibrant, modern side of Osaka as well as its deep historical roots, creating a well-rounded and memorable adventure in this dynamic city.

The Long Dark by Scott Buckley | www.scottbuckley.com.au
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Moonlight by Scott Buckley | www.scottbuckley.com.au
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Sovereign by Kevin MacLeod | https://incompetech.com/
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At The End Of All Things by Scott Buckley | www.scottbuckley.com.au
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