Visit Osaka

Tag: where to eat

  • Bathe in Nature at Tsrumi-Ryokuchi Park

    Bathe in Nature at Tsrumi-Ryokuchi Park

    Tsurumi-Ryokuchi Park is located on the lime green subway route and can be easily accessed from near Osaka Castle (Morinomiya station). The park was home to the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Expo, where different countries showcase flowers and landscaped areas. This is where the park gets its title as the ‘Osaka Expo ‘90 Commemorative Park’.

    Hire a scooter for the day

    Upon entering the park I noticed that you can hire a bike or hire some futuristic looking e-scooters and mobility scooters which I discovered were called Tsuru Mobi. To ride the Tsurumobi, all passengers must register as members and make a reservation in advance, so bear this in mind before your trip. As this was my first time visiting, I decided to walk to make sure I didn’t wizz past something worth exploring more. I checked the park map before making my way around. The map of the park looked big, and I was excited to explore it.

    Shortly after I entered, I spotted a tower which I now know is called the Tower of Life! Osaka city government closed the tower more than 10 years ago, due to declining tourist numbers, and had initially planned to demolish it. However, calls have emerged for the tower to be used to boost momentum for the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025. City officials say plans to topple the structure will go ahead without a feasible proposal to preserve it. I took a lot of photos of it, hoping that it will remain but knowing it could be demolished, and knew it would be a good point of reference during my park adventures.

    Tour the old-expo site and take a photo next to a windmill

    After entering the park, if you head right, you will enter the site of the 1990s flower expo and will be met with displays from all around the world. The most iconic is the dutch-style windmill which is surrounded by impeccable rows of flowers all year round. The flowers vary from tulips in spring, to sunflowers in august and more prime photo opportunities throughout the year. The displays from all around the world have been restored recently, with highlights including a waterfall from Canada, and temples from China and South Korea.

    Throughout the park, I noticed people sitting beneath mushroom-like shelters, and thought they looked really unique and cool in their design. Here is a photo!

    Mushroom Design Seating Areas

    Spot wildlife near the pond

    The large pond ‘Oike Pond’ in the centre of the park had a lot of birds flapping around, and herons perched quietly on rocks within the water. The backdrop of the pond included temples and a dutch-style windmill in the distance.

    On my way around, I found that the park has something for everyone, this includes a Horse Racing Track, a Forest Adventure filled with playgrounds for children, a BBQ and Camping area for those who want to camp in the park! If you wish to do this, remember to book in advance and bring your own tent.

    The abundance of wildlife, flowers and trees in the park was what I noticed most. The Sakura (blossom) trees were blooming in mid-March. A lovely surprise as they’re not forecast in most areas until April. Locals were naturally gathered to take photos of this fleeting moment. I was suprised to discover that the park is also home to a large indoor botanical garden with over 15,000 plants! The park is called Sakuya Konohana Kan, which costs just ¥500 to enter.

    Sakura Blossom Trees

    My walk around the park lasted around 3 hours, so I can see why you can rent bikes and scooters near the entrance! At the end of my walk, i was quite hungry, so I stopped at the restaurant near Oike Pond. The restaurant is ideally named ‘Botanical House’ and has a lovely terraced dining area near the water. It is one of the best locations for a romantic dinner that I’ve found in Osaka so far. A perfect scene to end the day before catching the train or if you want further time to relax, Tsurumi Onsen Suishun is a public bath house and gym located directly opposite the train station.

    View from Botanical House Restaurant

    So, is Tsrumi Park worth visiting? Yes, absolutely, i’d say that Tsrumi Park is arguably the best park to visit in Osaka when it comes to the variety of activities, plants and nature. While the park can be enjoyed all year round, the best time to visit Tsrumi Park is in Spring (April-June) to see the flowers in bloom or toward Autumn (September-November).

  • Hiroshima and Miyajima Island Itinerary (from Osaka)

    Hiroshima and Miyajima Island Itinerary (from Osaka)

    Hiroshima today is a symbol of hope and resilience. It has become a global advocate for peace and a place of reflection and learning. When I visited Hiroshima with my husband, we spent a couple of days exploring its history and beauty, including a trip to the stunning Miyajima Island nearby. This two-day itinerary offers a balance between the city’s poignant history and the natural charm of its surroundings.

    Day 1: Exploring Hiroshima’s History

    Morning
    Catch the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima. The fastest train, the Nozomi, costs around ¥10,570 (£58) one way and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you’ll need to take the slightly slower Hikari or Sakura trains, as the Nozomi is not covered.

    Once in Hiroshima, head straight to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a place of reflection and remembrance. Begin at the Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a sobering and detailed account of the events of 6th August 1945. Then take a quiet walk to reflect through the park and visit key landmarks, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Children’s Peace Monument, and the Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims.

    Finally, stop at the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, a tranquil space dedicated to honouring those who lost their lives.

    Lunch
    By midday, recharge with a plate of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a delicious savoury pancake layered with noodles, seafood, and vegetables. Two popular spots near the park are Okonomimura and Nagata-ya. Expect to spend around ¥1,000–¥1,500 (£6–£8) per person and make sure to bring cash with you as some locations don’t accept card payments.

    Afternoon
    After lunch, make your way to Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed samurai stronghold surrounded by a peaceful moat and park. Climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the city and learn about Hiroshima’s history before the war.

    Next, stroll to Shukkeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with scenic ponds, stone bridges, and seasonal flowers. This is an ideal spot to relax and reflect after a morning of learning about the city’s past. Entry is just ¥260 (£1.50).

    Evening
    End your day with dinner in downtown Hiroshima. Try the region’s famous oysters at a local izakaya, or explore the lively Hondori Shopping Arcade for a mix of restaurants and boutiques. If oysters aren’t your thing, Kanayama Base has a cosy atmosphere, welcoming staff and delicious food (& beer!). For a quieter evening, take a walk along Peace Boulevard, where the riverside atmosphere is particularly charming.

    Stay overnight near Hiroshima Station for easy access to the next day’s adventure. We opted for En Hotel which was affordable at £48 a night, close to the station and had all we needed!

    Day 2: Exploring Miyajima Island

    Spend your second day exploring the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Miyajima Island. The Global Peace Summit is often held here.

    Morning
    Set off early by taking the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (30 minutes, ¥420/£2.30 one way), followed by a short 10-minute ferry ride to Miyajima. The ferry is included in the Japan Rail Pass, or costs ¥180 (£1) each way without it.

    As you approach the island, you’ll see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most famous views. Spend your morning wandering through the shrine, exploring its beautiful wooden structures and marvelling at the torii gate from various vantage points. At low tide, you can even walk out to the base of the gate for a closer look.

    Wild Deer: Throughout the island, you’ll encounter Miyajima’s free-roaming deer, considered sacred in Shinto belief. These friendly creatures will happily approach you for snacks, so keep an eye on your belongings!

    Fog on approach to Miyajima (view from Ferry)
    A wild deer on the island

    Lunch
    Sample Miyajima’s street food, including grilled oysters, freshly skewered fish, and momiji manju, a sweet treat shaped like a maple leaf. Omotesando Shopping Street is a great spot for a relaxed lunch and souvenir shopping. Expect to spend around ¥1,000–¥1,500 (£6–£8).

    Afternoon
    Adventure awaits on Mount Misen, the island’s highest peak. You can hike up (around 90 minutes each way) or take the Miyajima Ropeway (round trip ¥2,200/£12) for spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea. At the summit, visit the Reikado Hall, where the “eternal flame” has been burning for over 1,200 years, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramas.

    After descending, spend a little more time exploring the island’s temples, shops, or quiet coastal paths before returning to the mainland.

    Evening
    Head back to Hiroshima by ferry and train, then catch the Shinkansen back to Osaka. Aim to leave Hiroshima by 6:00 PM to arrive in Osaka by 7:30 PM.

    This two-day itinerary offers a thoughtful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, leaving you with a profound appreciation for Hiroshima’s resilience and Miyajima’s timeless charm. I hope that you find it useful and that it inspires you to go on your trip!

  • Exploring Morinomiya (Osaka Castle and more!)

    Exploring Morinomiya (Osaka Castle and more!)

    Morinomiya is known as one of the nicest areas in Osaka. The JR Osaka Loop Line and Osaka Metro Chuo Line both have stops at Morinomiya Station, making it convenient to explore from anywhere in the city. Having lived in Morinomiya myself, here are some of the best things to do within the immediate area.

    Visit Osaka Castle

    At the heart of Morinomiya stands the iconic Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle played a pivotal role in Japan’s history. Today, visitors can explore the museum inside, which offers fascinating insights into the castle’s past. You can also dine like a king or queen near the castle at the Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace, which provides an ideal summer BBQ style setting with views of the castle.

    Surrounding the castle is Osaka Castle Park, a beautiful green space that changes with the seasons. In spring, it becomes a prime cherry blossom viewing spot, while in autumn, the golden leaves create a picturesque landscape. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a peaceful picnic. You can also take a relaxing boat ride along the river surrounding the castle to rest your legs.

    Osaka History Museum

    A trip to the Osaka History Museum is a great thing to do on a rainy day in Osaka. It has something for all of the family alongside panoramic views on each level. The entrance fee is just ¥600 per person and the exhibits have english written alongside them as well as Japanese – very considerate for tourists!

    To reach the Osaka History Museum, I recommend taking a short walk from Tanimachi 4-chome Station. The route is straightforward and gives you a glimpse of Osaka’s vibrant cityscape before you step into its rich history. Along the way, you might pass small cafes and convenience stores—ideal for a quick refreshment before starting your visit.

    I provide more information on the museum and whats included inside in a separate blog, check it out here.

    Naniwa Palace Ruins Park

    If you’ve been to the Osaka History Museum you will know all about this site. This historic park spreads over the area of ​​Hoenzaka in Chuo Ward, Osaka City. In 1961, an excavation by Dr. Yamane Tokutaro, a professor at Osaka City University, confirmed the remains of two Naniwa Palace palaces, one from the Asuka period to the Nara period. Currently, the central area of ​​the palace, covering an area of ​​about 90,000 square meters, has been designated as a national historic site, and is being developed as a historic park.

    The historic site is marked in two ways: the later Naniwa Palace, built from 726, is marked on a level above ground level with a stone foundation; the earlier Naniwa Palace, built from 650, is marked on a level below ground level with red tiles, red granite pillars, and a camellia hedge. Also, in the north central part of the park is the restored Daigokuden, which is said to have been used by the Emperor when holding official national ceremonies, from which Osaka Castle can be viewed.

    Discover Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine

    For a taste of traditional Japan, visit Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Osaka, dating back to 12 BCE. This shrine is believed to bring good fortune, especially in love and relationships.

    At the shrine, a curved jewel is the dominant motif that the head priest has developed a kind of magatama philosophy with. In addition to describing the four souls possessed by all people，which must be kept in balance, he elaborates a theory of social and marital harmony. If there is a good fit between two magatama in a yin-yang pattern, they form a circle and can roll smoothly. In similar fashion, when two people’s souls fit in this way they can work well together to progress in the world. A special comma-shaped amulet helps keep these spirits in balance.

    E-Mobility Metro Town (LIMITED TIME ONLY)

    For transport enthusiasts, and those looking for something fun to do with kids in Osaka, the recently opened E-Mobility Metro Town provides an interesting activitiy. You may have seen posters for this across Osaka on subways and be wondering what it is!

    e METRO MOBILITY TOWN is a temporary experiential theme park running from January to October 2025. Designed by Osaka Metro, it offers futuristic and interactive attractions centered on urban living and transportation.

    Highlights include the “Future Experience Area,” featuring projection mapping, virtual time-space tours, and activities like designing vehicles in the “Kids Train.” Visitors can ride EV and autonomous buses, explore the “Future Station” metaverse, and enjoy the EV Kart Circuit. Sustainable concepts are showcased with repurposed subway cars and flying car displays, providing a glimpse into transportation’s future.

    Ticket prices vary by purchase method:

    • e METRO App: Adults ¥1,320–¥1,980, children ¥660–¥990
    • On-site: Adults ¥1,600–¥2,200, children ¥800–¥1,100.

    Children under 6 enter free (limit 2 per adult). Group discounts are available. Additional fees apply for some attractions, like EV Karts, which cost ¥2,000–¥4,000 depending on size. You can buy your tickets here.

    Dining in Morinomiya

    After immersing yourself in the historical and natural beauty of the area, Morinomiya offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to various tastes. The relaxed Morinomiya Q’s Mall base is located just over the road from the park and includes a food-hall offering a variety of affordable options for food. The mall contains several second-hand vintage, shops, a climbing wall, gym, and a running track on the roof! so it really caters to everyone. Beyond the mall, here are some notable dining establishments in the area:

    Gyoza no Ohsho Morinomiya

    A popular chain specializing in gyoza (Japanese dumplings) and a variety of Chinese-inspired dishes, known for its quick service and affordable prices.

    Warabimochi Kadofuji Morinomiya

    A dessert shop renowned for its warabimochi, a traditional Japanese confection made from bracken starch and covered in sweet toppings.

    Anbai Morinomiya

    A cozy eatery offering a range of Japanese comfort foods, including set meals and seasonal specialties.

    Suikoden Morinomiya

    An izakaya-style restaurant serving a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing over drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.

    Morinomiya Wa Cafe Kitajima

    A café blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern touches, offering a selection of teas, desserts, and light meals.

    That’s Pizza!

    A local pizzeria (and personal favourite of mine) known for its handcrafted pizzas with a Japanese twist, providing a unique dining experience.