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【せんりみち公式】The most enjoyable Japan sightseeing! A guide with maps covering the whole country explains how to enjoy your trip!

For foreign visitors to Japan, Osaka Prefecture ranks alongside Tokyo and Kyoto as a popular tourist destination. The reason for its popularity is its rich "Osaka-ness" in every aspect, including its renowned gourmet cuisine, friendly locals who are quick to get along with anyone, historic landmarks, contemporary art, and unique entertainment. This article, written from the perspective of foreign tourists, comprehensively introduces "reasons to visit Osaka Prefecture on a domestic trip," "must-see spots," "enjoyable experiences while learning about Japanese culture," and "reliable access information," vividly revealing the true essence of the city of Osaka, with a structure designed to help it rank highly in search engines.

What makes Osaka Prefecture so attractive to foreign tourists?

Osaka Prefecture is a city with a unique character that is appealing to both domestic and international travelers. For foreigners in particular, it is a place that has a different meaning than other prefectures.

Friendly people create a warm atmosphere

The first thing you'll notice about Osaka is the friendliness of the people. If you ask for directions, they'll smile and show you, and if you go into a store, they'll try to have a conversation. You'll be touched by their kindness, trying their best to communicate even if they're not good at foreign languages. For foreigners who are used to cultures abroad where people usually keep their distance, Osaka's open culture will be impressive and will be a deeply moving experience.

Affordable and diverse food culture

From the everyday, tasty soul foods of takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, to the fresh seafood available at Kuromon Market and a variety of unique sweets, Osaka's gourmet scene is characterized by the satisfaction it offers beyond the price. Particularly popular with foreigners is the freedom to enjoy "eating on the go." Since many countries overseas do not have a strong street food culture, the casual way in which people can enjoy food is highly valued.

Popular spots for foreign visitors to visit in Osaka Prefecture

When you think of Osaka, Dotonbori and Tsutenkaku Tower come to mind first, but there are many other tourist spots that are popular with foreigners.

Dotonbori: A symbol of neon, Glico, and gourmet food

Dotonbori is an iconic area of Osaka. Its visually striking neon lights and the sight of tourists taking photos with the Glico sign in the background are a common sight. This place, which is also home to a giant Kani Doraku sculpture, a comedy theater, and a treasure trove of food culture, is a truly iconic space that makes foreigners feel like they've "arrived in Japan!"

Osaka Castle: A magnificent structure steeped in history

Osaka Castle, a famous castle symbolizing Japan's Warring States period, is equipped with multilingual exhibits and information boards, ensuring that even visitors unfamiliar with history can fully enjoy the site. It is also a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, and in the spring many foreign visitors come to take photos. Many tourists wish to tour the interior as well as the exterior, making it a place where they can be impressed once again by Japan's architectural technology and aesthetics.

Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Universal Studios Japan is a must-see tourist destination for foreigners who love anime and movies. It's popular with families and couples as a place where you can experience the world of globally recognized characters, with areas like the Harry Potter area and Minion Park. Its multilingual support and minimal inconvenience are also highly praised by foreigners.

Unique Osaka culture that foreigners can experience

In addition to touring tourist spots, there are many programs available that will help you gain a deeper understanding and enjoyment of Osaka through cultural experiences.

Takoyaki making experience

The cooking experience plan, where you make your own takoyaki under the guidance of a professional, is an activity that is especially popular with foreigners. Many tourists say with a smile, "Watching and actually making takoyaki are completely different!" and it is also popular among those who are conscious of how they will look on social media.

Manzai and Rakugo Experience

Despite the language barrier, Osaka is the only place where you can experience the unique laughter of the local area. With the number of translation earphones and performances with subtitles gradually increasing, it is ideal for inbound tourism that prioritizes experience.

What to do shopping in Osaka? Popular shopping areas for foreigners

Some foreign visitors to Japan plan their trip with the aim of purchasing Japanese products, and Osaka is dotted with shopping spots that will meet those expectations.

Shinsaibashi: A Must-See Street for Asian Tourists

Shinsaibashi has a friendly environment for foreigners, with signs in multiple languages, tax-free shopping, and large stores with interpreters on-site, so you can enjoy shopping with peace of mind. Particularly popular are Japanese brand cosmetics, fashion, home appliances, and anime goods.

Kuromon Market: A treasure trove of gourmet souvenirs

More and more foreigners are buying Japanese ingredients, especially fresh produce, to take home. Kuromon Market, where shopping and eating are combined, is characterized by the fact that you can enjoy shopping while also experiencing the local atmosphere. Takeaway processed foods and handmade Japanese sweets assortments are also popular.

Access to Osaka Prefecture and safe transportation for foreigners

The comfort of your trip depends greatly on the smoothness of transportation, and Osaka is extremely well-equipped in this regard.

Access to the city from Kansai International Airport

Kansai International Airport (KIX), Osaka's gateway, offers extremely convenient access to the city. In addition to direct trains such as the Nankai Electric Railway's "Rapi:t" and the JR Limited Express "Haruka," there are also plenty of limousine buses and shuttle services. Multilingual ticket vending machines are also available, eliminating the need for language barriers.

Unlimited travel with ICOCA card

The IC card "ICOCA" is very easy for foreigners to use and can be used on trains, buses, convenience stores, etc. Special passes are also sold for tourists, which is an advantage as it allows you to manage your travel economically.

How to Choose a Safe Accommodation in Osaka for Foreigners

Osaka has a wide variety of accommodation options in a variety of price ranges and styles, and the number of accommodations that meet the needs of foreign tourists continues to increase every year.

The evolution of guesthouses and hostels

Guesthouses with sophisticated designs and multilingual support that overturn the image of traditional cheap lodgings are popping up all over the country. Private room hostels and modern Japanese-style lodgings are also appearing, making them ideal for travelers looking for an extraordinary experience.

Tourism collaboration with highly rated hotel groups

Many hotels are partnering with tourist attractions and offering discounted tickets, transportation, and guided tours, making it an increasingly popular option. Another big attraction is the opportunity to broaden your Osaka experience through your stay.

Osaka Manners and Things to Remember for Foreigners

When you are in a different culture, it is important to respect local customs and manners. Advance information is essential to avoid any problems.

Eating and drinking rules

Eating while standing is tolerated in the city, but it is good manners to refrain from eating or bringing alcohol onto the train. Some areas prohibit eating while walking, so be sure to check the signs.

Quietness in public places

Osaka is a friendly city, but people are expected to behave modestly in quiet places such as on public transport and in museums. Some foreign tourists are unaware of this rule and end up startling those around them, so it would be good to strengthen advance notices in guidebooks and other places.

Future tourism in Osaka and responding to the increase in foreign tourists

Osaka is showing signs of maturing as a tourist city, but what will become important in the future is greater diversity and convenience.

Smart Tourism Integration

Smart tourism is steadily gaining acceptance, with the introduction of AR technology, QR code guidance, audio guides, and multilingual AI chat, bringing with it the promise of a new form of tourism that removes language and physical barriers.

Increasing demand for long-term stays and workcations

As accommodation styles become more diverse, Osaka is also expected to strengthen its furnished rental properties for long-term residents, collaboration with coworking facilities, and workation programs specializing in cultural experiences.

summary

Osaka Prefecture, with its unique culture, history, and culinary delights, is a city that offers a one-of-a-kind experience to travelers from both within Japan and abroad. For foreign visitors in particular, the friendly people backed by a merchant culture, the profound food culture, and the cityscape that blends modern and historical elements will all offer an experience full of surprises and discoveries. Short trips not only to Osaka city itself, but also to surrounding areas such as Sakai, Kishiwada, and Suita, will add even more color to your trip. Use the elements introduced in this article as a reference to plan a trip that can only be experienced in Osaka. Visiting Osaka as a foreigner is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

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