Osaka: Where To Go

Being a first-timer in Osaka, I mainly relied on countless research and reviews on the internet when it comes to where to go.  Since we were just spending four days in Osaka, we made sure to make the most out of it by going to places which ranks high on the must-visit lists.  Here are some of the places we went to:

Shinsaibashi Suji

Shinsaibashi Suji is a well known shopping street.  It boasts of a few kilometers worth of shops, and being a shopaholic, how can you not visit this place?!  What I like most about Shinsaibashi Suji is that you can find a mix of everything - be it local or international, high end or low end.  Practically everything is here: food, cosmetics, apparel, sports, and then some more!  The only thing you have to worry about is how your wallet and your credit cards will handle the pressure!  LOL.

Dotonbori

Shinsaibashi Suji and Dotonbori is separated by a bridge.  And in this area, you will find the iconic Glico Man sign, which is originally installed way back in 1935.  So what is Dotonbori?  Oh, just a whole stretch of restaurants.  What?!  Yup, a whole stretch.  We didn't get a chance to see how long that stretch is, but let's just say that you'll find a number of Osaka's best restaurants here in Dotonbori.  Nuff said.

Universal Studios Japan

I think this one needs no explanation.  No matter how far you go, or how many times you've already been, a visit to Universal Studios is always a must.  Always.  This is the third Universal Studios I've visited, and no two Universal Studios are the same.  Fun, fun, fun!

Rinku Premium Outlets

...and for those extreme shopaholics, Osaka has Rinku Premium Outlets.  Tip:  Visit Rinku Premium Outlets upon arrival or on your departure day because Rinku Town (where the Rinku Premium Outlets are) is just one stop away from the airport.  The outlet boasts of 210 stores from both local and international brands.

Osaka Aquarium

8 floors.  27 tanks.  11,000 tons of water.  346 tons worth of acrylic glass.  The biggest aquarium in the world.  Have I convinced you yet?  If not, how about interaction with sharks and stingrays?  Yes, you get to hold them, and no, you will not die.  I'm still alive to tell the tale, aren't I?  LOL.  Kidding aside, this is one impressive aquarium.  And if you love marine life, then you'll surely love Osaka Aquarium.

In summary, above are some of the must-visits when in Osaka.  So when going to Osaka for the first time (or the nth!), try to visit these places and see for yourself what Osaka has to offer.  Now I'm done with the "places to visit" post, do wait for my next post:  it's all about FOOOOOOOD! :)