OSAKA

Language

Japanese

What to eat

Osaka is otherwise known as tenka no daidokoro—the Nation’s kitchen. Tastings of ooey-gooey takoyaki (octopus chunks covered in clumps of batter) and okonomiyaki (cabbage-based pancakes) are a must-have, and roaming Dotonbori begs for a few nibbles of kushikatsu (deep-fried meat or vegetables kebabs) and yakinitu (grilled meat strips) along the way.

What to bring back

Keep the nostalgia going with souvenirs from your visit! Visit Amerika Mura—Osaka’s designated trendy district—for a wardrobe revamp, or shop for products from luxury brands stationed in Midosuji. Plush toys from Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan are also recommended, or take a day trip to Kyoto, less than an hour away from Osaka by car, for traditional Japanese keepsakes like yukata summer robes, pottery and green tea sweets.

When to visit Osaka

We recommend going during the off-season, from December to February or from June to August, when there are fewer crowds. The peak season is when the cherry blossoms bloom from March to May.

Fun Fact

Tokyo may be Japan’s capital today, but did you know that that title once belonged to Osaka?

In 645, the city (formerly known as Naniwa) was declared as the country’s capital by Emperor Kōtoku. At the time, Osaka was considered Japan’s most popular port. Since then, it has established itself as one of Japan’s largest economic hubs and its third largest city.

IMPORTANT INFO

For more information on all necessary travel documents and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.