Located at the very heart of Japan’s Kansai region, Osaka marries archaic traditions seamlessly with the throbbing pulse of modern urbanity. Nestled in a rich plains region, bisected by the Yodo River, Osaka experiences humid, hot summers and mild winters that are characteristically typical of Japan’s Pacific coastline.

Acclaimed as "Japan's Kitchen," Osaka's charisma is deeply woven into its food culture and history of trade. Predominantly warm and humorous, the locals effectively juggle work and play, as seen in the city's vibrant nightlife and bustling street food markets. Osaka presents an authentic, down-to-earth Japanese urban experience, contrary to Tokyo’s refined cosmopolitanism.

The life of the city pulsates vibrantly in two distinctive districts: the electrifying Dotonbori, with its mechanical signage of giant crabs and pufferfish casting shadows over streets where food stalls abound, and Shinsekai's historic neighborhood, singing visual paeans to Tsutenkaku Tower's retro allure. Food enthusiasts shouldn't lose the opportunity to savor takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) from street vendors, whose culinary craftsmanship has been honed over generations.

Key attractions in the city include Osaka Castle, a monumental structure girdled by cherry blossom trees, and Kuromon Ichiba Market, where you can sample and savor local gastronomy and fresh seafood. To encapsulate a unique perspective of the city, the Umeda Sky Building's floating garden observatory offers 360-degree sweeping views.