My dear travellers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the new series of travelogues on the Mr.M blog. Today I am very pleased to share with you one of the most exciting travelogues I have ever written – the story of Osaka, a city that the Japanese proudly call “the nation’s kitchen”. Before diving into the endless charms of this fascinating city, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism for supporting and promoting quality tourism around the world. Their commitment to connecting cultures and destinations is an inexhaustible inspiration for all of us who believe that travel enriches the soul and expands horizons.
I would also like to express my special thanks to the Conrad Osaka Hotel team for the exceptional hospitality they provided me during my stay in this magnificent city. From the moment I entered their spectacular lobby on the fortieth floor, it was clear to me that this trip was going to be special. Every member of staff demonstrated the highest level of professionalism and a genuine desire to make my stay memorable, and I experienced Japanese hospitality, known as omotenashi, at its best. Without their support and attention to detail, this trip would not have been the same.
Osaka: The city that never sleeps
Osaka is the third largest city in Japan with a population of around 2.8 million in the city itself, while the Keihanshin metropolitan area has over 19 million people, making it the tenth largest urban agglomeration in the world. The city covers an area of 225 square kilometers on the island of Honshu, in the heart of the Kansai region. Osaka’s history goes back a long way, the city was the economic and political center of Japan as early as the fifth century, thanks to its accessibility by sea and river routes for traders and travelers from Korea, China and all of Asia. Naniwazu Port, today’s Osaka Port, was the main gateway to Japan’s historic capitals: Nara and Kyoto.
During the Edo period (the period between 1603-1867), Osaka became one of Japan’s most important cities and returned to its ancient role as a lively and important port. Rice merchants organized warehouses where they stored the rice of feudal lords in exchange for a fee, trading it for money or receipts, the forerunner of paper money. The Rice Exchange was founded in Dojim in 1697, where the world’s first futures market for unharvested rice was created. Many of these merchants also gave loans and became extremely rich and powerful. Interestingly, Osaka was the largest city in Japan in 1930, surpassing Tokyo by over 400,000 inhabitants, with a population of over 3.2 million people.
Today, Osaka remains a vital economic center of western Japan, home to the stock exchange and the headquarters of multinational companies such as Panasonic and Sharp. Osaka Prefecture has a total manufacturing value of about 38 trillion yen and about 440,000 business establishments, of which 200,000 are within the city of Osaka itself. What makes Osaka truly special is its reputation as the “kitchen of Japan” – a city known for its diverse, hearty and delicious cuisine. With over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants and 99 Michelin-starred restaurants, Osaka is considered a foodie’s paradise. The local expression “kuidaore” which translates to “eat until you drop” best describes the attitude of Osakans towards food.
Osaka Castle: Witness to a turbulent history
Osaka Castle is undoubtedly the city’s most famous landmark and one of the most famous castles in all of Japan. Construction of the castle began in 1583 on the site of the former Ishiyama Hongan-ji temple, which was destroyed by Oda Nobunaga. The builder of the castle was Toyotomi Hideyoshi, known as the “Napoleon of Japan”, who wanted to create a castle that would serve both as a symbol of his power and as a powerful military fortification. The castle was designed to be the largest and most impressive in Japan, surpassing even Nobunaga’s Azuchi Castle. The construction work was completed in 1597, and the result was truly amazing.
The main tower, called the tenshu, has five stories on the outside, but actually contains eight interior levels and rises 55 meters above the ground. Hideyoshi spared no expense in construction, the exterior decorated with gold leaf and elaborate ornamentation to impress visitors and intimidate enemies. The shachihoko (sea monster) on the roof and the tiger under the fence, all decorated with gold and shining under the sun. The castle was built on two raised platforms of filled earth supported by steep walls of hewn stone, using a technique known as “thistle peeling”. These stone walls, some of which reach a height of 20 meters, are among the castle’s most impressive features.
After Hideyoshi’s death, the castle went through a series of conflicts, including the famous Siege of Osaka in 1614-1615. year. The winter campaign of 1614 showed how powerful the castle’s defenses were, massive stone walls and deep trenches repelling attacks by Tokugawa troops. However, the summer campaign of 1615 was disastrous for the Toyotomi clan – Tokugawa’s forces broke through the outer defenses and the castle was almost completely destroyed. It was rebuilt by Tokugawa Hidetada in the 1620s, but the main tower was struck by lightning in 1665 and burned down. The castle remained without a tower during the entire feudal period.
It was not until 1931 that the current reconstruction of reinforced concrete was built, financed by donations from citizens at the request of the then mayor Seki. Despite the bombing during World War II, the castle miraculously survived, and a major restoration was completed in 1997. Today, the castle serves as a museum with over 10,000 historical artifacts that provide a deeper insight into the significant role that Osaka has played in Japanese history. Newly opened in 2025 is the Toyotomi Stone Wall Museum, which exhibits the original stone walls that were covered by the Tokugawa when they rebuilt the castle. Admission for adults costs 1,200 yen, while children under 15 enter for free. The castle is surrounded by a park of 106 hectares, which is a pleasant refuge from the urban life of the city.
Dotonbori: The heart of the gastronomic scene
If there is one place you must visit in Osaka, it is undoubtedly Dotonbori. This colorful district along the eponymous canal is the epicenter of the city’s nightlife and culinary scene. Historically a theater district during the Edo period, Dotonbori has evolved into a vibrant hub combining gastronomy, fashion and nightlife. The famous “Gliko runner” sign and the moving advertising panel for Kani Doraku crabs are just some of the sights that attract millions of tourists every year. When night falls, the glow of neon lights and the shimmering water of the canal create an atmosphere of nostalgia and excitement.
The street food of Dotonbori is legendary. Takoyaki, dough balls stuffed with octopus, is probably the most famous street food in Japan, and its roots can be traced right back to Osaka, where it originated in the 1930s. According to the Griddle Konamon flowchart, the roots of takoyaki go back to a dish called rajjioyaki, popular on Osaka street stalls in the early Showa period (1926-1989). Octopus was later added, influenced by a popular local dish from nearby Akashi in Hyogo Prefecture, known as akashiyaki. These crispy on the outside and soft on the inside bites are served with traditional takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, dried bonito fish flakes and green nori seaweed. You can easily recognize takoyaki shops by their huge red and yellow signs with pictures of octopuses.
Okonomiyaki is another must-try dish. This savory pancake is made from a dough of flour, eggs and water, with a filling of chopped cabbage, scallions and various proteins such as bacon or shrimp. There are many regional varieties of okonomiyaki throughout Japan, and Osaka has its own distinctive version. The dish is prepared on a hot plate in front of you, making it an interactive culinary experience. Popular restaurants like Mizuno in Dotonbori even offer vegetarian and gluten-intolerant options. The dish usually costs between 900 and 1,200 yen depending on the side dish. Chibo Restaurant is famous for a special okonomiyaki called Dotonboriyaki, which is larger than the typical one and packed with pork cuts, shrimp, squid, cheese and beef tendon.
Kushikatu is another specialty of Osaka, fried skewers of meat, vegetables, eggs and even cheese, rolled in breadcrumbs and fried until golden-yellow. The most famous chain is Kušikatu Daruma, easily recognizable by the striking angry face that adorns the entrance. Rule number one: never dip a skewer twice in the same sauce! A lunch set usually costs between ¥1,200 and ¥1,800 and includes a variety of skewers, miso soup and rice. Kushikato Shirotai restaurants offer a slightly more subtle approach to this dish, with the option of requesting a traditional tin dipping sauce instead of a bottled sauce.
Shinsekai: Nostalgic district of the New World
Shinsekai, which literally means “New World”, is a unique district in the southern part of Osaka that offers a completely different experience from the rest of the city. This district was designed as an entertainment area in the early twentieth century, originally modeled after the cities of New York and Paris. The northern section was modeled after Paris, while the southern section was modeled after New York’s Coney Island. Opened in 1912, Shinsekai quickly became a popular tourist attraction due to its modern image. Tenoji Park and Amusement Park were built on the site of the 1903 Osaka National Industrial Exhibition.
At the heart of the district was the Luna Park amusement park, modeled after the original Luna Park in New York. The park contained mechanical rides, an arcade hall, a music hall and a hot spring spa, but it was only open for 11 years until 1923. However, this fun past left a deep mark on Shinsekai, which still has a slightly shabby carnival atmosphere. After World War II, the entire area was neglected and forgotten and developed a reputation as a poor part of Osaka. However, in the 1990s, Shinsekai again attracted attention for its retro atmosphere. Today, rickshaw drivers lead tours around the district, the new Spa World thermal theme park attracts tourists in the south, and around the Tsutenkaku Tower, the bright and kitschy lighting of countless restaurants creates a lively scene.
Tsutenkaku Tower is the defining landmark of Shinsekai and one of the symbols of Osaka. The original tower built in 1912 was designed to resemble Paris’s Eiffel Tower at the top and the Arc de Triomphe at the base. At the time of its construction, with its 64-meter height, it was the second tallest building in Asia. The name “Cutenkaku” can be translated as “Tower of the Skyway” or “Tower that Touches the Sky” and the tower quickly became a symbol of pride for Osaka. Visitors could ride the cable car that connected the tower to the Luna Park amusement park, these innovative features were at the source of the district’s name “New World”.
The original tower was badly damaged in a fire in 1943 and dismantled soon after, and the steel was used for war purposes. After the war, the local population fought to rebuild the tower and the current eight-sided tower was built in 1956 by architect Toka Naita, who also designed the Tokyo Tower. The new tower is 103 meters high, with the main observation tower at a height of 91 meters. On the fifth floor is a golden statue of Billiken, the god of luck, an originally American creation of the lucky charm, which is believed to bring good luck if you rub the soles of his feet. A new attraction opened in May 2022 is the Slider Tower, a 60-meter-long spiral slide that takes you down in ten exciting seconds. Admission for adults costs 900 yen, while children pay 400 yen.
Osaka Culinary Culture: Eat ’til you drop
Osakans say that “kuidaore” – eat until you drop or eat yourself bankrupt, is not just an expression, but a way of life. Residents of this city spend more money on food than anything else, and restaurants must maintain the highest quality standards or face closure. The city offers endless options for foodies, from street stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants. In addition to the already mentioned takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu, there are many more specialties that are worth trying. Ikayaki is fried squid coated in a sweet and salty tare sauce, prepared right in front of you and costs only a few hundred yen, ask for the Ikayaki (or Ika Yaki) fried fresh to order for the best taste.
Doteyaki is a dish of beef tendons slowly cooked in a sweet and salty miso sauce, real food for the soul that transforms humble ingredients into a deeply aromatic specialty that melts in your mouth. Kuromon Ichiba Market, known as “Osaka’s Kitchen”, has been serving locals for over 100 years. This covered market stretches for almost 600 meters and has more than 150 vendors offering a variety of fresh seafood, produce and prepared street food. Here you can try melt-in-your-mouth otoro sushi, fried seafood skewers, sweet treats and specialties like ikiyak. Although the market has become more tourist-oriented, it still provides an authentic experience of Japanese market culture.
Shinsekai is especially famous for its rows of kushikatsu restaurants. Zhanjan Yokocho is a covered shopping arcade that connects Spa World to the south with the main part of Shinsekai. This street gets its name from the sound of the shamisen, a stringed instrument that girls used to play to attract customers to bars. Today, the arcade offers cheap clothing stores, pinball halls, souvenir shops and many cheap restaurants. In addition to kushikatsu, here you can also find shogi parlors, places for playing Japanese chess. Kasuga Gorakujo, a retro game arcade that has been operating since around 1959, and Shinsekai Hihokan, Japan’s largest shooting range, further add to the neighborhood’s nostalgic atmosphere.
Osaka: Other sights and attractions
Abeno Harukas is the second tallest building in Japan with a height of 300 meters. The observation deck offers stunning views, especially at sunset. For ¥1,500 (about $10), you can enjoy a drink from the 60th floor terrace while taking in the view. The Umeda Sky Building is another impressive skyscraper with an observation deck and a Floating Garden connecting the two towers. For a panoramic view of the city, the Hep Five Ferris wheel in the vibrant Umeda district offers colorful gondolas and an unforgettable view of the city skyline, especially spectacular at sunset or after dark.
Shitenoji Temple is the oldest officially administered Buddhist temple in Japan, with a serene and mystical atmosphere. Despite being rebuilt after natural disasters and wartime bombings, it remains a spiritual haven with beautiful koi carp ponds, a Zen garden and weekend markets. Sumyoshi Taisha is one of Osaka’s most important shrines, easily accessible by the Nankai Line. With roots dating back to the fifth century, this shrine is one of the oldest and most important in Japan, dedicated to the three Shinto gods of the sea and navigation, founded to protect the port of Osaka.
Universal Studios Japan offers world-class entertainment with authentic attractions and shows based not only on Hollywood blockbusters but also popular entertainment brands. Super Nintendo World, a more recent addition to the park, offers a number of exciting attractions, including Mario Kart: Kupino Challenge, a ride that combines VR technology to recreate the famous Mario Kart game. In 2024, the park introduced the Donkey Kong Country section. America Mura is an area of Osaka with trendy boutiques, retro shops, quirky cafes and street art, the perfect place for vintage clothing lovers. Nipponbashi Denden Town is Osaka’s version of Tokyo’s Akihabara, a paradise for fans of anime, manga, video games and character figurines.
Osaka: Transportation and getting around the city
Osaka has an extremely efficient public transportation system that makes getting around the city easy and affordable. The metro network covers practically all parts of the city, and the lines are color-coded with commentary in English, meaning you won’t miss your station. The JR Osaka Loop Line is particularly useful for tourists, circling the city and connecting to Kansai Airport. The basic fare starts at around ¥180, and day tickets offer good value for money for those who plan to travel a lot. Taxis in Osaka can be quite expensive, a ride from the airport to the city center can cost several hundred dollars. Note: Services like Uber and Lyft are not available in Japan.
Biking is a popular way to get around Osaka. Renting a bike or joining a bike tour offers a local’s perspective. Several bike rental companies are available, but it is wise to book in advance. For spontaneous riders, Umegle-Chari offers a practical bike-sharing service with instructions in English and affordable prices. If you are coming to Osaka by Shinkansen (bullet train), Shin-Osaka Station is your entry point. Kansai International Airport, the first offshore airport built on a completely artificial island, is the main gateway for international flights. The taxi ride from the airport to the city center is about 50 minutes.
Conrad Osaka: Your Address in Heaven
During my stay in Osaka, I had the privilege of staying at the Conrad Osaka Hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels in the city with the concept of “Your Address in Heaven”. The hotel is located on the highest floors from the 33rd to the 40th of the Nakanoshima Festival West tower, an architectural masterpiece in the city’s business district. From 200 meters above the ground, the view extends to the mountains in the distance, the buildings of Osaka, the sea into which the waters of the two rivers Dojima and Tosabori flow, and the endless horizon with clouds that constantly change shape. It was designed by Hashimoto Yukio Design Studio, the same team behind The Peninsula Tokyo and InterContinental Osaka.
The hotel has 164 rooms and suites divided into seven categories, with all rooms offering over 50 square meters of space, which is extremely generous by Japanese standards. During my stay, I was accommodated in their Junior King Corner Suite, a 66 square meter suite located on the corner of the building, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city and river. The apartment had everything an elite traveler could wish for, a separate living room with a comfortable lounge chair by the window, a space for work and relaxation, and a bedroom with a king size bed.
The design of the room combines modern elegance with subtle Japanese accents: dark wood, natural stone on the floor and red lacquered details create an atmosphere of sophisticated tranquility. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide unforgettable views of the city of Osaka, with the possibility of even seeing Osaka Castle in the distance from west-facing rooms. What particularly impressed me was the attention paid to every detail. Upon entering the apartment, I was greeted by an elegant hallway leading to a spacious dressing room with all the necessary amenities, from an ironing set to an abundance of hangers. Sweet welcome gifts awaited me there, the recognizable Conrad teddy bear and a rubber duck with the hotel logo.
The bathroom was a real revelation, the distinctive round bathtub that has become the trademark of Conrad Osaka, a separate shower with extraordinary water pressure and the famous Japanese Toto toilet with digital control. Cosmetic products are from the prestigious Biredo brand, the Mohave Guest fragrance is a standard for Conrad hotels around the world. A Dyson hair dryer completes the impressive bathroom offer. The king-size bed was on the firmer side, but with luxurious duvets and linens that guarantee a perfect night’s sleep. Next to the bed was a Bose wireless speaker-box for streaming music and a tablet for controlling lighting, curtains, door labels and room temperature.
The suite comes with access to the Executive Lounge on the 39th floor, where I enjoyed stunning views of the city while having afternoon tea and evening cocktails with canapés. The hotel lobby on the 40th floor is perhaps one of the most beautiful I have ever seen, a monumental spiral staircase inspired by the ribbon design dominates the space, and the views through the endless floor-to-ceiling windows are breathtaking. Breakfast at the Atmos Dining restaurant was phenomenal, a rich buffet with traditional Japanese and Western dishes, plus the option to order dishes as desired. I would especially single out the station with Japanese rice bowls with various toppings like seared albacore tuna, salmon, roe and onsen egg, as well as the outstanding matcha latte they prepared.
A 38th-floor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows and city views, premium lounge chairs, as well as a fitness center and spa with a Jacuzzi and cool plunge pool, completed the experience of my luxurious stay. Kura Restaurant on the 40th floor offers a teppanyaki and sushi experience 180 meters above the ground with views of Osaka’s skyline. The location of the hotel is strategically perfect, it is connected by subway to Higobachi and Watanabebashi stations, which allows quick access to all parts of the city. Umeda is within walking distance, and you can reach Dotonbori in a few minutes by subway.
Osaka: Practical tips for travelers
The best time to visit Osaka is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal. Cherry blossoms usually begin in late March and are in full bloom during the first week of April. Osaka Castle Park is one of the most popular places for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Autumn arrives a little later than in other regions, if you want to see the beautiful autumn leaves, plan your visit in late November or early December. June and July are the rainiest months, while August is the hottest and most humid, I recommend avoiding visiting the city during July and August if possible.
For a short visit, two full days in the city of Osaka will give you an insight into the city itself and its popular specialties, but there is plenty to see in the surrounding area via day trips. Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s 12 remaining original castles with a stunning white facade, is an hour away by train. Nara with its friendly deer roaming freely in the park and the magnificent Todai-ji Temple with its huge Buddha statue is also a great day trip option. Interesting fact: Osaka has an incredible amount of vending machines that offer a truly bizarre assortment of products: from lobsters, to flowers, eggs, to hot meals and umbrellas. It is estimated that 3% of the city’s electricity production goes to power 5.5 million vending machines in the city!
The city hosted the world exhibition Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, which meant accelerated development of infrastructure, hotels and shopping centers. Grand Green Osaka near Osaka Station, KITTE Osaka at the site of the former post office and many other new attractions welcomed numerous visitors. Tourism in Osaka is experiencing significant growth, with the number of foreign visitors reaching 11.1 million in 2017, a fivefold increase over 2010. The number of international flights increased to 300 per week, and the number of arrivals at Kansai International Airport increased from 2.6 million to 7.6 million in just three years.
Why should you visit Osaka?
Osaka is a city that enchants all the senses, from the smell of takoyaki on the street, to the visual spectacle of the neon lights of Dotonbori, to the taste of kushikatsu that melts in your mouth. This is a city that never sleeps, a city where tradition and the modern world intertwine in a unique way, a city where every corner will reveal something new and exciting. Whether you’re a history buff, a true foodie, a fan of unusual adventures or simply want to experience authentic Japanese culture, Osaka has something for you. Osakans are known as the most open and friendly Japanese people, people who like to laugh and enjoy life.
Once again, I express my sincere gratitude to the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism for their support and for their continuous work to promote responsible and quality tourism throughout the planet. I would also like to thank the entire team of the Conrad Osaka Hotel for their exceptional hospitality, from the receptionists who welcomed me with a refreshing drink, to the concierges who helped me discover the city’s hidden gems, to the maids who turned my room into an oasis of peace every morning. This hotel is not just a place to stay, it is a destination in itself, your address in the sky above one of the most exciting cities in Asia. If you are planning a visit to Japan, don’t skip Osaka. This city will win you over with its energy, food and the warmth of the local people. I’m sure I’ll be back soon, I can’t wait to walk the picturesque streets of Dotonbori again, climb to the top of the Cutenkaku Tower and indulge in the boundless culinary delights of a city that truly deserves the title of “the nation’s kitchen”. Until the next travelogue, take care and travel with a heart open to new experiences!
Have you already had the opportunity to visit Osaka, this unique city where tradition seamlessly intertwines with the futuristic rhythm of life? Or maybe you are just planning to discover the magic of Osaka and its special local culture, its colorful districts, markets and distinctive skyscrapers that leave no one indifferent?
Feel free to leave your impressions, comments or questions below the text, or contact me via email and social networks. All information is available on the CONTACT page.
See you soon, with a new story from the heart of the Far East!
With Love from Osaka,
Mr.M
This post is sponsored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and Conrad Osaka Hotel, as well as other local partners who selflessly supported this project. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.
Hello Marko, what an incredibly comprehensive guide to Osaka! I visited the city two years ago and stayed at the InterContinental Osaka, which was lovely, but your description of the Conrad Osaka with the lobby on the 40th floor and that iconic round bathtub sounds absolutely spectacular. The fact that the hotel was designed by the same team behind The Peninsula Tokyo speaks volumes about the quality. Your photos of the city views from 200 meters above ground are breathtaking, I can see why they call it “Your Address in Heaven.”
Lieber Marko, vielen Dank für diesen ausführlichen Reisebericht über Osaka! Ich war vor drei Jahren in Tokio und Kyoto, aber habe Osaka leider ausgelassen. Nach dem Lesen deines Artikels bereue ich das sehr! Die Geschichte des Osaka Castle mit der Belagerung von 1614-1615 und der Tatsache, dass der Turm 1665 vom Blitz getroffen wurde und fast 270 Jahre ohne Hauptturm blieb, ist faszinierend. Wann ist die beste Zeit für Hanami im Osaka Castle Park? Du erwähnst, dass die Kirschblüten normalerweise Ende März beginnen.
Cher Marko, quel article fantastique sur Osaka! J’ai séjourné au Ritz-Carlton Osaka il y a deux ans et j’ai adoré la ville. Ta description du Conrad Osaka avec la suite Junior King Corner de 66 mètres carrés et les vues panoramiques me donne envie d’y retourner et d’essayer cet hôtel. La mention que toutes les chambres offrent plus de 50 mètres carrés, ce qui est extrêmement généreux selon les standards japonais, est vraiment impressionnante. Est-ce que le petit-déjeuner à l’Atmos Dining est inclus dans le prix de la chambre?
Hola Marko! Excelente guía sobre Osaka. Visité Japón hace dos años y me hospedé en el Park Hyatt Tokyo, pero no tuve tiempo de visitar Osaka. Tu descripción del distrito de Shinsekai y su historia fascinante me ha convencido de que debo regresar a Japón. El hecho de que el barrio fue diseñado en 1912 con la sección norte modelada según París y la sección sur según Coney Island de Nueva York es increíble. La torre Tsutenkaku con el tobogán espiral de 60 metros que te lleva abajo en diez segundos suena emocionante!
Ciao Marko! Che articolo straordinario su Osaka! Ho visitato Tokyo tre anni fa e ho soggiornato al Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, ma non ho avuto l’opportunità di visitare Osaka. La tua descrizione del mercato Kuromon Ichiba, conosciuto come “la cucina di Osaka” con oltre 150 venditori su quasi 600 metri, mi ha fatto venire l’acquolina in bocca. Una domanda: quanto tempo consigli di dedicare al mercato per provare tutte le specialità senza sentirsi troppo affrettati?
This is hands down one of the best Osaka guides I’ve ever read, Marko! I visited Japan three years ago and stayed at the Aman Tokyo, but focused mainly on Tokyo and Kyoto. Your detailed explanation of the kuidaore culture, the idea of eating until you drop, perfectly captures what makes Osaka special. The fact that the city has over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants and 99 Bib Gourmand restaurants is incredible. I’m definitely planning a return trip to Japan with Osaka as my main destination now!
Hallo Marko! Fantastischer Reisebericht! Ich war vor zwei Jahren in Osaka und habe im Hilton Osaka übernachtet, das war gut, aber deine Beschreibung des Conrad Osaka klingt auf einem ganz anderen Niveau. Die Tatsache, dass das Hotel sich auf den obersten Etagen vom 33. bis zum 40. Stock des Nakanoshima Festival West Towers befindet, ist beeindruckend. Eine Frage: Du erwähnst, dass die Suite Zugang zur Executive Lounge auf dem 39. Stock bietet. Welche Vorteile bietet die Lounge genau, außer dem Nachmittagstee und den Abend-Cocktails?
Cher Marko, merci pour ce guide si complet sur Osaka! J’ai visité Kyoto il y a trois ans et j’ai séjourné au Four Seasons Kyoto, qui était magnifique. Ta description de la gastronomie d’Osaka m’a vraiment impressionnée, surtout l’histoire du takoyaki qui remonte aux années 1930 et qui a évolué du rajioyaki. Le fait que tu ne dois jamais tremper deux fois ton kushikatsu dans la sauce est un détail culturel important que je n’aurais pas connu sans ton article!
Marko, your Osaka guide is exceptional! I stayed at the W Osaka two years ago, which was trendy and modern, but your description of the Conrad Osaka’s design combining modern elegance with subtle Japanese accents sounds more sophisticated. The detail about the distinctive round bathtub that has become the trademark of Conrad Osaka, along with the Byredo Mohave Guest amenities and Dyson hair dryer, shows the level of luxury this hotel offers. Did you try any of the spa treatments during your stay?
Hola Marko! Muchas gracias por esta guía tan detallada de Osaka. Estuve en Tokio hace tres años y me hospedé en el Peninsula Tokyo, pero después de leer tu artículo, Osaka está definitivamente en mi lista para el próximo viaje. Tu explicación sobre la historia del Castillo de Osaka, construido por Toyotomi Hideyoshi conocido como el “Napoleón de Japón”, es fascinante. Una pregunta práctica: ¿cuánto tiempo recomiendas dedicar a visitar el castillo y su museo con los más de 10,000 artefactos históricos?
This Osaka guide is incredibly helpful, Marko! I visited Kyoto and Nara two years ago but skipped Osaka, which I now regret after reading your post. Your description of Dotonbori with its famous Glico runner sign and the Kani Doraku crab has convinced me it’s a must-visit destination. The fact that the area was historically a theater district during the Edo period and has evolved into this vibrant hub of gastronomy and nightlife is fascinating. I love how you captured the atmosphere with your beautiful photos!
Lieber Marko, dein Osaka-Reisebericht ist wirklich beeindruckend! Ich war vor zwei Jahren in Japan und habe im Aman Kyoto übernachtet, aber Osaka habe ich nur für einen Tagesausflug besucht. Deine Beschreibung des Conrad Osaka mit dem spektakulären Lobby auf dem 40. Stock und der spiralförmigen Treppe, die vom Ribbon-Design inspiriert ist, klingt atemberaubend. Die Information, dass man von manchen Zimmern sogar das Osaka Castle in der Ferne sehen kann, ist ein tolles Detail. Wie war die Soundproof-Qualität in deiner Suite?
Salut Marko! Quelle critique détaillée et magnifique d’Osaka! J’ai séjourné au St. Regis Osaka il y a trois ans et j’ai adoré la ville. Ta description du quartier Shinsekai avec son atmosphère nostalgique de carnaval et la statue dorée de Billiken, le dieu de la chance d’origine américaine, est fascinante. Le fait qu’on croit que frotter les semelles de ses pieds porte chance est un détail culturel charmant. As-tu essayé le tobogán spiral Tower Slider qui a ouvert en mai 2022?
Marko, your guide has made me want to book a trip to Osaka immediately! I visited Tokyo three years ago and stayed at the Shangri-La Tokyo, but your description of Osaka as “the nation’s kitchen” has piqued my interest. The fact that Osaka was actually the largest city in Japan in 1930, surpassing Tokyo by over 400,000 inhabitants with a population of 3.2 million, is a surprising historical fact I didn’t know. Your photos of the Conrad Osaka’s views are stunning, especially the night shots of the city skyline.
Hola Marko! Tu artículo sobre Osaka es fantástico y muy completo. Visité Japón hace dos años pero solo estuve en Tokio, hospedándome en el Andaz Tokyo. Tu descripción del templo Shitenoji, el templo budista más antiguo administrado oficialmente en Japón, me ha intrigado mucho. El hecho de que a pesar de haber sido reconstruido después de desastres naturales y bombardeos durante la guerra, sigue siendo un refugio espiritual con estanques de carpas koi y jardín zen suena muy pacífico. ¿Vale la pena visitar los mercados de fin de semana que mencionas?
Hello Marko, what an amazing Osaka guide! I’ve been a Hilton Honors member for years and have stayed at various Conrad properties, including the Conrad Tokyo and Conrad Bali. Your description of the Conrad Osaka’s Junior King Corner Suite with the 66 square meters of space and panoramic views sounds like it might be the best Conrad I haven’t visited yet. The breakfast at Atmos Dining with the Japanese rice bowl station featuring seared albacore tuna and onsen egg sounds incredible. How does it compare to other Conrad properties you’ve stayed at?
Liebe Marko, vielen Dank für diesen wunderbaren Osaka-Reisebericht! Ich reise oft nach Asien und habe im Conrad Tokyo und Conrad Singapore übernachtet. Deine Beschreibung des Conrad Osaka mit den Byredo-Pflegeprodukten und dem berühmten japanischen Toto-Toilette mit digitaler Steuerung zeigt die Liebe zum Detail. Eine Frage: Du erwähnst, dass das Hotel mit den U-Bahn-Stationen Higobashi und Watanabebashi verbunden ist. Wie lange dauert es von dort bis nach Dotonbori mit der U-Bahn?
Ciao Marko! Bellissimo articolo su Osaka! Ho visitato il Giappone due anni fa e ho soggiornato al Park Hyatt Kyoto, che era stupendo. La tua descrizione del Dotonbori di notte con le luci al neon e il riflesso nel canale sembra magica. Il fatto che l’okonomiyaki a Osaka abbia la sua versione distintiva e che il ristorante Chibo offra il Dotonboriyaki speciale con maiale, gamberi, calamari, formaggio e tendine di manzo mi ha fatto venire fame! Quanto costa tipicamente una cena completa a Dotonbori?
Marko, this Osaka guide is exactly what I needed for planning my Japan trip! I stayed at the Hoshinoya Tokyo three years ago and loved the traditional Japanese hospitality. Your explanation of the omotenashi culture at Conrad Osaka sounds like they’ve mastered this art. The detail about the Kura Restaurant on the 40th floor offering teppanyaki and sushi 180 meters above ground with views of Osaka’s skyline sounds like an unforgettable dining experience. Is the restaurant included in the Executive Lounge access or is it a separate reservation?
Liebe Marko, dein Osaka-Artikel ist wunderbar geschrieben! Ich war vor drei Jahren in Tokio und Osaka und habe im Hotel Granvia Osaka übernachtet, das gut gelegen war, aber deine Beschreibung des Conrad Osaka klingt viel luxuriöser. Die Information, dass das Abeno Harukas mit 300 Metern das zweithöchste Gebäude Japans ist und man für nur 1.500 Yen einen Drink auf der 60. Stock-Terrasse genießen kann, ist ein toller Tipp. Wie vergleicht sich die Aussicht vom Conrad mit der vom Abeno Harukas?
Cher Marko, merci pour cette guide exceptionnelle d’Osaka! J’ai visité le Japon il y a deux ans et j’ai séjourné au Hoshinoya Kyoto, qui était une expérience traditionnelle magnifique. Ta description du Conrad Osaka offre un contraste intéressant avec son design moderne et ses vues spectaculaires. Le fait que l’aéroport international du Kansai est le premier aéroport offshore construit sur une île entièrement artificielle est un fait fascinant. Combien de temps faut-il pour arriver à l’hôtel depuis l’aéroport?
Marko, your Osaka guide has convinced me to add Japan to my bucket list! I’ve traveled extensively in Asia and stayed at properties like the Capella Singapore and Rosewood Hong Kong. Your description of the Conrad Osaka’s pool on the 38th floor with floor-to-ceiling windows and city views sounds incredible. The mention that the fitness center includes a Jacuzzi and cool plunge pool is a nice touch for post-workout recovery. How crowded was the pool area during your stay?
Hola Marko! Excelente artículo sobre Osaka. Visité Japón hace tres años y me quedé en el Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, que fue una experiencia increíble. Tu descripción de la cultura culinaria de Osaka con el expresión “kuidaore” que significa “comer hasta caer” captura perfectamente el espíritu de la ciudad. El hecho de que los habitantes de Osaka gastan más dinero en comida que en cualquier otra cosa muestra su pasión por la gastronomía. ¿Probaste el doteyaki, el plato de tendones de res cocidos lentamente en salsa miso que mencionas?
This is such a beautifully written Osaka guide, Marko! I visited Japan two years ago and stayed at the Ace Hotel Kyoto, which had a lovely modern vibe. Your description of Universal Studios Japan with Super Nintendo World and the new Donkey Kong Country section from 2024 sounds amazing for theme park lovers. The Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge ride combining VR technology sounds like a must-do experience. Do you know if there are separate tickets for Super Nintendo World or is it included in the general park admission?
Ciao Marko! Che guida straordinaria su Osaka! Ho soggiornato al Conrad Tokyo due anni fa e l’esperienza è stata eccezionale. La tua descrizione del Conrad Osaka sembra altrettanto impressionante, specialmente la menzione del famoso orsacchiotto Conrad e dell’anatra di gomma con il logo dell’hotel come regali di benvenuto. Il fatto che la piscina sia al 38° piano con viste sulla città attraverso finestre dal pavimento al soffitto suona come un’esperienza unica. Come si confronta il Conrad Osaka con il Conrad Tokyo in termini di servizio e atmosfera generale?
Marko, your practical tips for visiting Osaka are invaluable! I’ve traveled to Japan twice, staying at the Palace Hotel Tokyo and the Kyoto Brighton Hotel. Your advice about avoiding July and August due to heat and humidity, and recommending late November or early December for autumn leaves, is exactly the kind of local knowledge travelers need. The fact that 3% of Osaka’s electricity goes to power 5.5 million vending machines is a hilarious and fascinating statistic that shows Japan’s unique culture!
Hello Marko, what an incredible Osaka guide! I stayed at the W Osaka last year and loved the city’s energy. Your description of the Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine with roots dating back to the fifth century as one of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan dedicated to the Shinto gods of the sea and navigation is fascinating. The fact that it was founded to protect the port of Osaka adds historical context to its significance. Your photos throughout the article are stunning and really capture the essence of both the city and the Conrad Osaka hotel!