Taste Japan's culinary capital on a trip to Osaka
Osaka is located in central Japan on the main island of Honshu. Osaka is the capital city of Osaka Prefecture, and although the prefecture is Japan’s second smallest in area, Osaka has one of the largest population densities in all of Japan.
Formerly known as Naniwa, Osaka was Japan’s capital from 683-745 AD. Given its ideal location, approximately 40 minutes travel time between Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, Osaka is an important commercial centre and point for land and water transportation, as Osaka Bay is situated to the west of the city. Once referred to as the ‘nation’s kitchen’, Osaka was Japan’s trading centre for rice.
Osaka was a major target during World War II, having bombs continually being dropped on its industrial districts during the last year of the war. Facing enormous devastation, Osaka’s resilience was demonstrated when it quickly rebuilt its infrastructure after the war and regained its status as a major industrial and cultural centre.
With Osaka Castle being the city’s most well-known structure, Osaka also features many museums, galleries, parks, temples and shrines, and various cultural venues to be enjoyed during Oska tours on a Japanese vacation. As well, it boasts having Japan’s longest shotengai (Japanese-style street shopping arcade).
Known for its cuisine, Osaka is considered a food lover’s paradise. Its central location makes Osaka a prime city to visit and experience Japanese culture, history and life.
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