The samuri culture was not so promminent in Osaka, my hometown, as it was in Tokyo (Edo region) and other significant cities. Rather than fighting and protecting its territory with weapons and soldiers, the city strengthened its power in commerce business. As a city of merchants, Osaka gained its influence by becoming the country’s center of trade and commerce. Today, it is the second most important city regarding business after Tokyo in Japan. Like Tokyo, Osaka is alive and busy day and night, with plenty of exciting places to visit and a variety of delicious local food to try.
An arcade in central Osaka
The food culture is distinct, tasty, and very popular. Many tourists from around the country come to this busy city to eat local food such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, or kushi-katsu, which are all famous. You can actually eat these food anywhere in Japan, and you can even make them at home quite easily. However, eating authentic Osaka food in Osaka, is what makes it special.
Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake)
Universal Studios Japan is located in East-Osaka, and many Kansai district (Middle-Eastern Japan) tour plans include a visit to USJ. In 2014, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened, and the number of people who visit is rapidly increasing each year.
Harry Potter World, USJ
Osaka is the hometown to many famous comedians that you see on Japanese T.V. There are several renowned comedy schools in the center of the city, and there is also a famous theatre that puts on comedy plays almost every day. Humor is a vital aspect of the Osaka culture, and making jokes for good conversation is an important part of communication. So, not only are the people of Osaka very friendly and talkative as descendants of merchants and sales-men, but they are also energetic and funny.
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