Osaka

Japan Summer Festivals 2026：Gion Matsuri in Kyoto - A Must-See Procession of Floats

Japan Summer Festivals 2026：Gion Matsuri in Kyoto - A Must-See Procession of Floats

Every summer, Japan holds a variety of festivals, offering a great opportunity to learn about local culture, customs, and history. Most of Japan’s summer festivals take place from early July to late August, with Kyoto’s "Gion Matsuri," one of the three major festivals in Japan, taking center stage from July 1 to July 31 at Yasaka Shrine and around the Gion area.

Explore the World of Mario at Universal Studios Japan

Explore the World of Mario at Universal Studios Japan

One of Osaka’s hottest attractions is the Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan (USJ). This exciting park zone brings the magical world of Super Mario Bros. to life, allowing visitors to take pictures with Princess Peach, explore Bowser’s castle, and race in AR Mario Karts—making it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

2 Kyoto Cultural Experience Classes: Kintsugi & Sushi Making

2 Kyoto Cultural Experience Classes: Kintsugi & Sushi Making

For anyone familiar with Japanese culture, Kyoto is often synonymous with matcha. As Japan's ancient capital, Kyoto's tea ceremonies once served as meeting grounds for political discussions among those in power. But did you know that the vessels used in these ceremonies, apart from being made from ceramics, have also inspired an entire art of restoration? This craft has now become a unique experience for tourists in Kyoto.

Kobe Motomachi Maiko | Exploring Chinatown, Visiting the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and Enjoying Kobe Beef Teppanyaki

Kobe Motomachi Maiko | Exploring Chinatown, Visiting the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and Enjoying Kobe Beef Teppanyaki

Since the opening of Kansai International Airport, it has become the main gateway for those traveling to the Kansai region, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. For travellers who enjoy a more tranquil, cultural experience and prefer to avoid following the crowds, Kobe offers a quiet charm and subtle historical atmosphere that is perfect for those seeking a deeper, more exploratory journey.

Explore Sakai City’s National Treasures for Just 700 Yen

Explore Sakai City’s National Treasures for Just 700 Yen

For just 700 yen (about 35 HKD), you can ride the century-old Hankai Tramway and explore Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture's second-largest city, in a day. Along the route, you can visit places like the "Sakaikiwami" designated sword shops from the Edo period, traditional houses designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, the thousand-year-old national natural monument "Great Sago Palm," and national treasure temples. The highlight is Sumiyoshi Taisha, the head shrine of 2,300 Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan. If you still have energy, the tram can take you as far as Tennoji Station in Osaka City or Ebisu-cho near Tsutenkaku.

A Journey Through Osaka Castle by Electric Bike and River Boat

A Journey Through Osaka Castle by Electric Bike and River Boat

Osaka Castle, built by Japan’s "Napoleon" Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Under warm sunshine, we embarked on a unique exploration of the castle—by electric bike and the Osaka "Gozabune" boat. Passing through the castle gates and crossing the protective moat, we experienced both land and water routes on our journey to Osaka Castle’s towering keep.

Cruise on the Santa Maria and ride the Ferris wheel to explore Osaka Bay

Cruise on the Santa Maria and ride the Ferris wheel to explore Osaka Bay

Visiting Osaka, don't miss the chance to board the Osaka Bay Cruise "Santa Maria." Standing on the deck, one can enjoy the view of Osaka Bay, traveling back in time 500 years to the famous ship that Christopher Columbus sailed on when he discovered the Americas. The interior and exterior of the sightseeing ship are designed based on the ship Columbus sailed on, providing a unique experience. After returning to the pier, take a ride on the once world's largest Ferris wheel to overlook Osaka Bay from a different perspective.

Sake Lover’s Paradise: Exploring Fushimi Sake in Kyoto

Sake Lover’s Paradise: Exploring Fushimi Sake in Kyoto

As the popularity of Omakase dining grows, so too does the pairing of exquisite Japanese sake. Many are even enrolling in sake courses to deepen their appreciation of this refined drink. But why learn from afar when you can experience it firsthand? Besides tasting Kyoto's renowned matcha, the Fushimi district in Kyoto is one of Japan's sake brewing heartlands, home to 18 sake breweries.

Kyoto Gourmet Recommendation｜The Popular Minced Meat and Rice "挽肉と米"( Hikiniku to Come)

Kyoto Gourmet Recommendation｜The Popular Minced Meat and Rice "挽肉と米"( Hikiniku to Come)

One of Japan's most popular eateries in recent years, "挽肉と米" (Hikiniku to Come), opened its first store in June 2020 in Kichijoji, Tokyo. With just a simple dish of a hamburger steak and a bowl of rice, it has taken Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong by storm, with discussions about the restaurant reaching fever pitch. Currently, there are only four branches across Japan, located in Kichijoji, Shibuya (Tokyo), Gion (Kyoto), and Fukuoka. Why not try it in Japan?

A One-Day Stroll Through Kobe: Experiencing Exotic Charm in a Port City

A One-Day Stroll Through Kobe: Experiencing Exotic Charm in a Port City

Kobe, Japan's sixth-largest city and the capital of Hyogo Prefecture, sits across the bay from Osaka. Historically, Kobe was a key port for cultural exchange between Japan and foreign countries, and since the Meiji Era, it has been a residence for foreigners, with Western-style architecture still prominent throughout the city. If you want to experience this harbour city’s charm and indulge in the famous Kobe beef, a day trip from Osaka to Kobe is the perfect way to explore its exotic ambiance.

Osaka's Kinki Railway: The Journey of "Hinotori" Train

Osaka's Kinki Railway: The Journey of "Hinotori" Train

In recent years, travellers from all over the world have increasingly chosen Japan as a travel destination. This is not only because of the admiration for Japanese culture and its clean environment and delicious food but also due to its extensive and advanced transportation systems. Whether traveling within major cities or between them, using trains or buses in Japan is both easy and reasonably priced, making it a top choice for independent travellers.

Umeda Sky Building: The Lovers’ Paradise to Enjoy Japan’s Best Sunset

Umeda Sky Building: The Lovers’ Paradise to Enjoy Japan’s Best Sunset

When visiting Osaka, the Umeda Sky Building is the top spot for watching the most beautiful sunset. Standing at 173 meters tall with 40 floors, this iconic Osaka landmark offers a breathtaking experience from its open-air 360-degree Sky Garden Observation Deck. It’s especially romantic for couples who lock their love on the observation deck. Umeda Sky Building lives up to its reputation as one of Japan’s top 100 sunset viewing spots.

Osaka Day Trip: Exploring "Kyoto by the Sea" – Ine and Amanohashidate

Osaka Day Trip: Exploring "Kyoto by the Sea" – Ine and Amanohashidate

For travelers enchanted by Kyoto’s traditional charm, a deeper dive into Japan’s historical and cultural treasures awaits in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture. The “Funaya” (boathouses) that have stood since the Edo period. Known as “Kyoto by the Sea” and dubbed the “Venice of Japan” by international visitors, an extraordinary sight unique to Japan that has remained unchanged for a millennium.

Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha: Recommendation for a Tasty Break

Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha: Recommendation for a Tasty Break

Flying into Osaka and then catching a train straight to Kyoto to explore the city's famous landmarks is a popular itinerary. Among these, Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari Taisha are must-visit spots, especially for those dressed in traditional kimono, making them ideal photo opportunities. However, these places can get incredibly crowded, sometimes overwhelming. This time, we recommend two cozy eateries near these Kyoto attractions, providing a perfect spot to rest and escape the crowds.

Kyoto Shrine Tour: 5 Must-Visit Unique Shrines! Learn the Proper Way to Worship

Kyoto Shrine Tour: 5 Must-Visit Unique Shrines! Learn the Proper Way to Worship

Located about 50 kilometers from Osaka, Kyoto is home to famous landmarks like Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, which are must-visit places for tourists. However, the ancient capital, formerly known as Heian-kyo, is also host to over a thousand shrines with deep historical significance. Not only are these shrines incredibly photogenic, but they also offer a chance to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s rich cultural atmosphere.

Cycling Tour in Sakai, Osaka's Second Largest City: Home to the World's Largest Tomb

Cycling Tour in Sakai, Osaka's Second Largest City: Home to the World's Largest Tomb

Sakai City, part of Osaka Prefecture, is the second largest city in the region and boasts a rich cultural heritage. During the 4th to 5th centuries, the Mozu Tombs were constructed here, including the Nintoku-Tenno-Ryo Kofun, the world's largest tomb, which is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site. Today, it is a bicycle-friendly city. In the crisp autumn air, consider cycling around Sakai to explore the ancient tombs, ride to the port lighthouse, and experience the medieval atmosphere.

Expo 2025 Osaka: Must-see Tips before you enter! 4 popular pavilions to visit. 1:1 Gundam + the world's largest wooden building ‘Grand Ring’

Expo 2025 Osaka: Must-see Tips before you enter! 4 popular pavilions to visit. 1:1 Gundam + the world's largest wooden building ‘Grand Ring’

Expo 2025 Osaka (World Expo) has officially opened! The theme of this year's World Expo is ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’, and the exhibition period is from 13 April 2025 to 13 October 2025. 158 countries and regions will participate in the Expo, showcasing their national cultural characteristics and state-of-the-art technology, as well as the architecture of each country's pavilion, which is a must-see international event when travelling to Japan this year!

Tokyo

Bangkok

Seoul

Taipei

Osaka

Manila

Hong Kong

Yonago

Tokushima

Zhoushan

Sendai

Huangshan

Yichang

Zhangjiajie

Guilin

Datong

Phu Quoc

Sapporo

Quanzhou

Xuzhou