Take a 2-hour train to
OSAKA. From the Namba Station, walk through Osaka’s liveliest and most colourful shopping and dining streets, starting with Doguyasuji. A unique market that sells anything related to food, Doguyasuji is known for its plastic food models, which are often used in restaurant displays.
Just nearby is
Sennichimae, a lane filled with small eateries that serve all the Osakan delicacies such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki and the famed fugu (blowfish). Aside from the local restaurants, Sennichimae also hosts a couple of game centers and the vibrant Namba Grand Kagetsu Theater, the headquarters of the nationwide Japanese comedy brand, Yoshimoto.
Before reaching the end of Sennichimae, make a quick left turn in one of the narrow alleys to see
Hozenji Temple, a small village temple dedicated to one of the Five Wisdom Buddhas. After offering coins, worshippers splash water on the statue of the deity before praying as a sign of respect.
Right outside the temple grounds and just across the humble yet historical Kamagata Ukiyo-e Museum is Hozenji Yokocho, a short, narrow lane lined with expensive restaurants.
From here, emerge to the very busy
Dotonbori, a restaurant mecca which has long-been referred to as Osaka’s former entertainment and pleasure district. A short walk from this street leads to the touristy Ebisubashi with the famous billboard of the Glico Running Man and a view of Dotonbori River.
Overnight in Osaka
