Osaka is one of the top-visited cities in Japan visited by local and foreign tourists. Located in the Kansai region of Central-West Japan, Osaka is a major industrial centre in the country. It is located near Kyoto and rich with heritage and culture. Many historical sites are waiting to be visited, such as Sumiyoshi Shrine and Osaka Castle. The city maintained its historical and cultural heritage while at the same time having various modern attractions throughout the city. From shopping and dining to parks and shrines, tourists will surely have a long list of the itinerary for a fulfilling Osaka tour.

Best time to fly from Tacloban to Osaka

The best time to visit Osaka is from October to November during the autumn or from April to May during the spring as you can experience Osaka's spring cherry blossoms scenery. However, the peak season is also around that time, so you need to plan your vacation early as most of the hotels are already fully-booked during that period and the rate will be higher than usual. The off-peak season in Osaka will be from December to February which is during the winter.

Main airports available in Tacloban and Osaka

Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport – Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport is an airport located in the city of Tacloban. It is classified as a Class 1 principal (major domestic) airport. It was named from a former speaker in the Philippine House of Representatives, Daniel Z. Romualdez. It is also known as Tacloban City Airport. It is located around 12 kilometres from the city’s centre. It is the main gateway from Manila and Cebu to the Eastern Visayas Region in central east Philippines. It also connects the city of Tacloban to other cities in the Philippines and around the world. It is the third rapid growing airport in the Philippines. It was rebuilt back after the tragedy of Typhoon Haiyan that hit this city in 2013. It is a single-story airport that makes it more comfortable and quicker for passengers to move. It has many facilities like restaurants, money changer counter, free Wi-Fi and shops inside the airport. Besides, there are many public transportations available in this airport for everyone to use here daily. 

Kansai International Airport – Kansai International Airport is one of the international airports in Osaka. It is a large airport with over 900 weekly flights to destinations all around the world. Many airlines are operating in this airport including airlines from the Philippines like Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and Philippines AirAsia. Kansai Airport has two terminals and both terminals are not interconnected. It has many facilities like restaurants, money changer counter, free Wi-Fi and shops inside the airport. Besides, there are many public transportations available in this airport for everyone to use here daily. It also has free shuttle buses for the convenience of the passengers.

Climate pattern in Osaka

Osaka is a four-seasonal city. Its geographical location contributes to the mild winter weather with rare chances of snowfall. Temperature averages about 7 degrees centigrade in this season. The seasonal shift during spring leads from mild to hot and humid weather at the end of the season and continues in summer. The rainy season also occurs between June and July. Weather is usually the hottest in August which can reach 33 degrees centigrade. Autumn season brings chances of typhoon between September and October, but the weather gets milder nearing to the end of the season.

Highlights attractions in Osaka

Universal Studios Japan – Universal Studios Japan is located in the Osaka Bay area and was the first Universal Studios theme park built in Asia. Within the area of 39 hectares, the theme park comprises of eight sections which feature popular movie themes like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Spiderman and Back to the Future. Visitors from any age range can enjoy the amusement rides with carousels, roller coasters and simulators to fill your excitement. Children and adults may also look forward to taking pictures together with characters Hello Kitty, Sesame Street puppets and Snoopy. Visitors can reach Universal Studios Japan via train on JR Yumesaki Line, bus services, and Captain Line ferry service from Osaka Aquarium. 

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan has been regarded as one of the best aquaria in Japan. Located within the Tempozan Harbour Village in Osaka Bay, the aquarium displays aquatic species from the Pacific Rim. The highlight of the aquarium is the central tank which was designed to represent the Pacific Ocean, containing a whale shark. Opening hours of the aquarium vary according to the season, so visitors may need to check before visiting. The admission fee to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan varies between 600 – 2,300 JPY (288 – 1,106 PHP) based on the age categories, while children under three years old can access for free. Visitors can reach the aquarium via train to Osakako Station on the Chuo subway line, bus services, and Captain Line ferry service from Universal Studios Japan

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Minami – What is a trip to Osaka if you do not go to Minami. Minami is situated near Namba Station, which offers many attractions within the area. One of the famous locations within Minami is Dotonbori, which is recognized by the large Glico Running Man poster. Visitors can find a variety of local food here, which some are available 24 hours. Visitors can also shop local products at Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade, Amerikamura, Den Den Town and Kuromon Market. For those who are keener on cultural and historical activities, you can also visit the National Bunraku Theater, Hozenji Yokocho and Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum.