Osaka Jet Charter

In Osaka, Japan has it’s own version of time square, known as Shinsaibashi. The entire district is dedicated to shopping. There are American-themed stores, youth culture, boutiques and major outlet stores, there’s something for everyone in this area. If you’re ever visiting, this would be a great place for souvenirs or bringing home knick-knacks for your friends.

Website: Shinsaibashi

Who says arcades are dead? Not in Japan, my friend. In Osaka, they understand the simple joy of playing video games with friends, or even strangers, while under the influence of alcohol. They even set up a bar dedicated to this pastime, with a great atmosphere, and games ranging from the classics to the new virtual reality machines. A gamer will find their homeland is in Osaka, Japan.

With the kids and want a great way to keep them entertained? Kids always like to go to the aquarium, and Osaka’s Kaiyukan aquarium is definitely one to check out. It is one of the largest public aquariums in the world, it’s a five-minute walk from the Osakako Station, and they have a large (tranquil) whale shark. There are 16 exhibits throughout Kaiyukan, and if you want a show, you definitely want to get there around feeding time.

Website: Kaiyukan

Tokyo has been said to be the city of lights, but we think Osaka has them beat once the lights go out. Nearly all of Dotonbori is illuminated at night; it’s so bright, a common boat ride can go from tranquil to exciting once the sun goes down. The buildings are covered in neon lights, billboards and signs light up, and the atmosphere is all around very eccentric. Dotonbori is known as the “entertainment” area, and is very popular for tourists to visit, due to its theater district and dazzling nightlife.

A designated national treasure, this is one of Japan’s most famous castles. It survived earthquakes, fires, wars, and was left virtually unscathed during World War II, even when its surroundings were leveled via carpet bombing. It is nearly the last standing castle in Japan, has a history of 400 years, and towers over many skyscrapers and office buildings in the area. Some construction and renovation is going on, and the castle is currently closed for now, but is said to reopen late March 2015. Annually, it is closed December 29-31 during the holidays, a typical tradition in Japan, where many stores and attractions close around New Year’s.

How to Get There

Because Himeji isn’t in Osaka, but is a famous attraction, we felt it should be noted here. We have listed the best ways to get there from here.

• Near the Kansai International Airport, there are buses that run eight times a day to Himeji; a 2.5 hour ride
• Take the Port Liner train from Kobe Airport to Sannomiya, then hop on the Shin-kaisoku train service to Himeji; a total of 1.25 hours
• Take a bus from Itami airport directly to Himeji; buses arrive every hour, a 1.25 hr ride
• The Hikari Rail Star and Kodama trains offer frequent service to Himeji
• Take a train on the Sanyo Shinkansen line that runs from Osaka to Kobe
• The most inexpensive method of travel would be to take the Shinkaisoku commuter train on the JR Kobe line; a 57 min ride from Osaka; 38 min from the Kobe Sannomiya station

• Kema Sakuranomiya Park
• Osaka Castle
• Expo 70 Commemorative Park
• Osaka Mint Bureau