Japan
Day 8: Osaka
Wander through the lively streets of Shinsekai, savor the bustling energy of Dotonburi, and explore the delicious offerings at Kuromon Market.
Start your day at Kuromon Market
Your first stop of the day is Kuromon Market, a bustling hub of over 150 stalls where you can find a variety of fresh seafood, delicious street food, and local treats. This market has been around for over 190 years! We tried wagyu skewers, kobe beef skewers, white strawberries, one giant king crab leg, and bought tons of souvenirs and sweets. The energy here is contagious, and it’s a perfect way to start your day.
A 20-minute walk takes you to the next location.
Explore Shinsekai and its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower
Next, head over to the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower in the retro Shinsekai district. This tower, originally built in 1912 and rebuilt in the 1950s, offers amazing views of the city from its observation deck. The area around the tower is also very much worth exploring. You’ll find old-school eateries, vintage bathhouses, and quirky shops all over the place. We found a fun little shop where you could shoot corks at all kinds of things, and whatever falls off is yours!
Take a 15-minute subway ride to another of Osaka’s iconic spots.
Explore Dotonbori
No visit to Osaka is complete without exploring the lively Dotonbori area. Famous for its dazzling neon signs, bustling atmosphere, and endless dining options, Dotonbori is the heart of Osaka’s entertainment and nightlife. Make sure to snap a photo with the iconic Glico running man sign, the most famous symbol of the area. Wander along the canal, dive into some local street food, and hop in one of the many photobooths you’ll find here.
It’s just a 4-minute walk to your dinner spot of the day!
Dinner time at Chibo Okonomiyaki
Chibo Okonomiyaki is renowned for its delicious okonomiyaki, a savory pancake. We loved this place so much we came back multiple times to try different varieties! Our favorites include the Dotonbori okonomiyaki topped with a sunny side up egg, and the tasty vegetarian option.
Take a 25-minute subway ride to your accommodation.
