After immersing in the refined atmosphere and cultural heritage of Kyoto, next up is the bustling Osaka (大阪). The change in pace is rather obvious once we alight at Osaka Station, now we are talking about the hectic pulse of a large metropolitan city. Skyscrapers and tall buildings with huge LCD monitors displaying advertisements are seemingly lined up everywhere along the crowded streets.
Walking the streets remind me of Tokyo, very similar but somewhat different.
Osaka may be second fiddle to Tokyo in term of political importance but the city exerts a charm which differentiates itself from the capital city. One thing stood out in particular is the Osakans, I personally find them more outspoken and helpful towards foreigners compared to the Tokyoites – or perhaps the people I met in Tokyo are more reserved?
Dotonbori in Osaka
Situated alongside of Dotonbori canal, this famous street with the running Glico Man is one of the most recognized and visited landmarks in Osaka. It also happened to be my favourite place, so much so that we are here 3 nights in a row.
What’s so nice about Dotonbori? Well, I like the colourful billboards and signboards which are visually pleasing, the catchy colour contrasts somehow harmonize with one another.
The manga-style signboards of the shops in Dotonbori are just so damn interesting!
Don’t forget to drop by the super popular Evisu shop to admire (buy) their ultra cool jeans.
Most importantly, the food selection this lively street can offer is unbelievable! Dotonbori is simply the best place to explore Osakan specialties, my next post will illustrate the great eating scene in Osaka, stay tuned.
STAY: Hotel Villa Fontaine Shinsaibashi
Hotel Villa Fontaine Shinsaibashi is located right at the heart of Shinsaibashi (心斎橋) shopping district and within few minute walk from Shinsaibashi metro station. Which means it is near to many shops, supermarkets, cafes and restaurants catering to any needs. It’s also very near to my favourite Dotonbori (é“é “å €). I book us into this hotel simply because of the convenient factor and room rates, and it didn’t disappoint us.
The rooms are expectedly small but clean as always. WiFi and breakfast are included. Breakfast spread is rather limited, no complain since it’s free but the breakfast area does get very crowded every morning.
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Hotel Villa Fontaine Shinsaibashi
3-5-24 Minamisenba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0081, Japan
http://www.hvf.jp
Getting here: Located really near to Shinsaibashi metro station.
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What are your thoughts about Osaka or Dotonbori? Leave a comment and share it with me.
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