With only 24 hours in Osaka, I knew I would only get a taste of what the city had to offer. That being said, I still managed to see a few of the highlights in Japans’ second largest metropolitan area. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by Osaka. Here is a run down on how I spent a day exploring the city.
Dinner at 鶏Soba 座銀 本店
I arrived via train from Kyoto on a Tuesday evening. The sun was just about to settle into the horizon, splashing the sky with pink and orange hues. I made my way to my hostel {Ark Hostel} where I kindly asked for ramen recommendations in the area. I was quickly directed to a ‘vending machine’ style ramen restaurant.
A bit unassuming, once I entered 鶏Soba 座銀 本店, I could confirm I had joined a local experience. They do offer a very basic English menu, but I went with {what looked like} the most popular item. Guys, when I tell you this was the best ramen I’ve ever had in my life, you better believe it. It was creamy, flavorful, and not too heavy. How they managed to perfect it, I’ll never know. Irregardless, I was grateful for the recommendation and happy to pass it along.
The next morning it was time to start my explorations. I attempted to wake up as early as possible, however it was my final day on holiday so I was knackered. Even so, I dragged my ass out of bed in order to hit… Shinsekai?
Related: Kyoto + Osaka Vlog
Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower
It may come as a surprise that this run-down, deemed ‘dangerous’ {by Japanese standards}, carnival-esque location would be first on my list of things to do in Osaka. But, as you know, I’m all about a good photo opportunity. Give me a district inspired by New York and Paris, add gaudy advertising and larger than life sea creatures, and I’m there.
After wandering around the area and snagging some pics with the infamous Tsutenkaku Tower {designed to resemble the Eiffel Tower}, it was time to move on.
Osaka Castle
It was still quite early on in the morning when I made my way to Osaka Castle. Even so, by the time I arrived it was flooded with tourists. The area never felt over-crowded, but I certainly wasn’t alone. With a limited amount of time, and an empty stomach, I opted out of actually entering the castle. However, the exterior alone makes the visit worth it in my opinion.
Brunch at Westwood Bakers
At this point in the morning, it was time for my favorite meal of life: breakfast. Just kidding, we know it’s brunch. Being on holiday, I once again, threw my gluten free thoughts out the window. Even on holiday, when it comes to the first meal of the day, I refuse to eat rice like so many do in Asia. Give me some western style food, please and thank you.
Westwood Bakers display an American flag upon entering the small eatery. That’ll do donkey, that’ll do. The atmosphere of Westwood Bakers was cozy and warm. There wasn’t an empty seat in the joint, which is always a good sign. Since I began to feel guilty, as I always do when ordering from a westernized restaurant abroad, I began scouring the menu. I opted for fruit covered pancakes, with a Japanese influence. The pancakes in Asia are smaller, fluffier, and healthier? {that’s just me wishing, let’s be real} Whatever they were, they were scrumptious.
Related: Kyoto Photo Diary: 12 Hours in Kyoto
Dotonbori
Upon leaving Westwood Bakers, I was in walking distance of the ever-popular Dotonbori. The weather remained in my favor just long enough for me to walk the canal and shuffle through the busy side streets. Eventually, though, it began to rain quite heavily. At this point I figured it would be a good time to get some treats for my co-workers back in Korea.
Before arriving in Osaka, I had watched Cest Christine‘s’ Instagram story about her time in Japan. She mentioned that if you purchase anything from Don Quijote, a popular discount store in Japan, you can ride the Dontobori Ferris Wheel for free. Knowing this, I quickly dipped inside, bought a few goodies, and held on to my receipt. {You can find the shop directly underneath the ferris wheel}
Up I went to the entrance of the ferris wheel, all the while wondering why I put myself through these kind of things. I hate heights. And I hate ferris wheels. But I love a good view. Plus, this thing looks so unique from the exterior, I had to find out more.
Well, find out I did {after the fact}. Apparently this ferris wheel was built in 2005, but only ran for three years, shutting down in 2008 due to a mechanical failure. It just re-opened again in 2018 after much demand from locals in Osaka. Had I known this prior to riding, I might not have boarded the death trap. If this sounds like your cup of tea, however, make sure to save your receipt for a free go around.
Related: 20 Travel Tips for Solo Travelers in Japan
Off to the Airport
After an hour or so at a Starbucks charging my devices, I figured it was time to head back to the hostel in order to catch my flight back to Korea. My final day in Japan was a sweet one, despite the rain and limited time. If I were to visit Japan again, I would most definitely return to Osaka. There was a ‘Cup of Noodles’ museum that I was dying to get to. Plus, I barely got to indulge in the food scene in Osaka.
Have you been to Osaka? Was one day enough time in the city? Coming up on the blog I’m sharing more of South Korea. With only two months left in the country, I’ve become nostalgic of my arrival and the great times I’ve shared here. I’ve also been in the process of planning out the next chapter – watch this space as always.
