Destination

Osaka Castle is the one sightseeing spot that every visitor to Osaka should see. Take an elevator to the top of the Main Tower and get a panoramic view of the city. Learn all about the history of Osaka through the numerous displays and artefacts. Surrounding the castle is Osaka Castle Park, which is a great place to jog or enjoy the 4,500 cherry trees in bloom-viewing season. Nearby relaxing hot springs for freshening up after a long day.

The HEP Five Ferris Wheel has become a symbol of the Kita area. The red wheelset atop the HEP Five building captures the attention of every visitor to Osaka. The ride takes about 15 minutes. One can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get a great view of famous landmarks such as the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. We recommend taking a ride at sunset for a romantic evening experience. Each enclosed car is climate-controlled so you can ride the Ferris wheel in any weather.

Osaka is home to Bunraku puppet theater, listed as a World Intangible Culture Heritage by UNESCO. Even though theater culture has broadened to include a great many styles, one done not ordinarily have the change to see Japanese puppet theater in which recited narrative and dialog is accompanied by shamisen music. The puppets' movements are so smooth and lifelike that they might be mistaken real people.

One of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, with a history stretching back 1800 years. Its traditional architecture is unusual amongst Japan's shrines, and its park-like surroundings with the sacred bridge arching over a tranquil pond make it a restful break from the busy environment of Osaka.