Cherry Blossom in Japan 21-Day Itinerary – Day 7
On day 7, we embarked on a journey through the vibrant streets and cultural treasures of Osaka. Japan’s bustling metropolis is known for its rich history, eclectic cuisine, and dynamic energy. In this immersive travel blog, we delve into a day of exploration in Osaka, uncovering hidden gems, sampling delectable vegan cuisine, and immersing ourselves in the city’s unique charm. From strolling through iconic districts like Dotonbori and Amemura to indulging in culinary delights at local markets and restaurants, each moment offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of Osaka. Join us as we wander through lively streets, encounter vibrant traditions, and savor the essence of Osaka’s vibrant soul.
Highlights of the Day
- Dotonbori Riverside
- Sennichimae Market
- Kuromon Market
- Namba Hatch
- Amemura (America-mura)
- Lunch at Matsuri
- Nipponbashi Den Den Town
- Shinsekai
- Gyoza from Gyozaoh! Dotobori
- Dinner at Oko Fun Okonomiyaki
Osaka Free Walking Tour – Join-In Group Tour
Our exploration began with a refreshing breakfast of fresh fruits sourced from a local shop near APA Hotel & Resort Midosuji Honmachi-Eki Tower Osaka. Energized, we joined a guided walking tour by Osaka Localized, delving into the city’s cultural tapestry. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour unveiled Osaka’s culinary prowess and celebrated Otaku culture. As we strolled through vibrant streets, we journeyed back to Osaka’s old New World of the early 20th century.
Dotonbori Riverside
The free walking tour started at the the scenic Dotonbori River. Our guide let us take in the bustling atmosphere of this iconic waterfront area. Restaurants and bars line the riverbanks, offering al fresco dining, perfect for enjoying a meal in Dotonbori’s vibrant ambiance. While there may not be dedicated vegan eateries along the riverside, you can still find vegan food there.
Standing tall above the Dotonbori Canal, the Glico sign is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Dotonbori, Osaka’s bustling entertainment district. This illuminated billboard, featuring the iconic Glico running man, has become a symbol of the vibrant energy and excitement of the area. Originally installed in 1935, the sign has undergone several renovations and updates over the years, but it continues to captivate visitors with its bright lights and dynamic design.
Sennichimae Market
We walked past the Dotonbori riverside and arrived at Sennichimae market. This bustling market area is renowned for its traditional Japanese sweets, street food, and souvenirs. It was like a flea market. Explore stalls brimming with colorful produce, aromatic spices, and tantalizing street food delicacies, offering a true feast for the senses. While many offerings may not be vegan-friendly, keep an eye out for vendors selling fresh fruits, roasted nuts, and Japanese sweets made from plant-based ingredients like rice flour and sweet beans.
Kuromon Market
Kuromon Market, also known as “Osaka’s Kitchen” is a paradise for seafood lovers, offering a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and street food. While seafood dominates the market, you can still find vegan-friendly options such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and grilled skewers loaded with seasonal vegetables. We explored the market stalls and sampled some local fruits to enjoy later in the day.
Namba Hatch
Next destination was Namba Hatch, a popular entertainment venue known for hosting live performances and events. With its intimate atmosphere and diverse lineup of performances, ranging from indie bands to international artists, Namba Hatch is a favorite destination for music lovers. Visitors can catch a live show and immerse themselves in Osaka’s vibrant music scene, experiencing the city’s cultural richness and artistic expression firsthand.
Amemura (America-mura)
The next neighborhood we walked to was Amemura, often referred to as “America-mura” or “American Village”. This trendy neighborhood is a haven for fashion enthusiasts and youth culture. Here, visitors can explore quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and hip cafes, reflecting the area’s eclectic and youthful vibe. Street art and graffiti adorn the walls, adding to the neighborhood’s urban charm, while live performances and events contribute to its dynamic atmosphere. While exploring Amemura, keep an eye out for vegan-friendly cafes and restaurants offering plant-based options ranging from salads and sandwiches to smoothie bowls and vegan desserts.
Dotonbori
Finally, the guide brought us back to Dotonbori, which offers a plethora of dining options, including several vegan-friendly eateries. Explore the bustling streets lined with restaurants and street food stalls, where you can indulge in local specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), which can also incorporate vegan ingredients. On asking the walking tour guide, he asked us not to miss out on the opportunity to try out unique vegan twists on traditional Japanese dishes at select restaurants.
Important Note
While the walking tours are advertised as free, it’s important to note that they operate on a tip-based system. I highly recommend giving a fair and generous tip to the guide as a gesture of appreciation for their efforts in providing these exceptional walking tours throughout the cities. This ensures that they remain motivated to continue offering their valuable services to visitors.
Lunch at Matsuri
After our exciting walking tour, we took the Sennichimae Line (pink line) from Namba station to Nodahanshin Station. From there, it was just a short 230-meter walk to Matsuri restaurant. The delicious scent of Japanese food welcomed us warmly as we settled down, excited to try the vegan options. The menu was full of tempting choices, from curry ramen to vegan takoyaki and wasabi ramen, all expertly prepared with traditional flavors and modern twists. Each dish was a delight for the senses, taking us on a culinary adventure through Japan’s diverse food culture. In the cozy atmosphere of Matsuri, surrounded by the sounds of fellow diners, we savored every bite, grateful for the chance to experience authentic Japanese cuisine.
Osaka Walking Tour – Customized On Our Own
As we were checking online, there were quite a few walking tours in Osaka. Before lunch, we did the walking tour in the morning with the company “Osaka Localized” whose highlights are Dotonbori, Sennichimae Market, Kuromon Market, Namba Hatch, and Amemura. But there is another walking tour company called “Osaka Free Walking Tour” that caught our attention, and their tour highlights are Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Nipponbashi DenDen Town, and Shinsekai. As we had already explored the first two sites, we planned to explore the rest on our own.
From Matsuri, we walked for about 4 minutes to reach Nodahanshin Station, where we took the Sennichimae Line (pink line) to Nippombashi Station. After a brief walk, we transferred to the Sakaisuji Line (brown line), traveling to Ebisucho Station. From there, it was just a 5-minute walk to reach Shinsekai and its iconic Tsutenkaku tower.
Shinsekai – Tsutenkaku & Billiken
In this lively neighborhood, we were greeted by the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, which translates to “Tower Reaching Heaven,” and is often referred to as the “Osaka Eiffel Tower.” The towering structure offered panoramic views of the cityscape, providing a perfect vantage point to admire Osaka’s skyline. The surrounding area is bustling with activity, featuring a plethora of shops, eateries, and entertainment options. We sampled few vegan Kushikatsu skewers from street vendors and paid homage to Billiken, the God of wealth and fortune. Visitors to Osaka often rub Billiken’s feet for good luck, ensuring their fortunes align with the whimsical spirit of this beloved deity. With its blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, Shinsekai offered a captivating conclusion to our journey through Osaka’s cultural landmarks.
Nipponbashi Den Den Town – Anime Haven & Adult Stores & More
Located just within 1 km from Shinsekai, Nipponbashi DenDen Town, often referred to as the “Akihabara of Osaka,” is a vibrant district renowned for its plethora of shops specializing in manga, anime, electronics, and otaku culture. It is also affectionately known as “Electric Town.” As we wandered through the lively streets, we were captivated by the myriad shops specializing in manga, anime goods, and figurines. The area buzzed with energy as fans browsed through shelves filled with rare collectibles and sought-after memorabilia. Alongside the shops, we encountered iconic maid cafes, where waitresses dressed in maid uniforms beckoned guests with charming smiles. DenDen Town offered a glimpse into Japan’s vibrant otaku culture, where fans from around the world come to indulge their passion for anime and manga.
Adult Store in Nipponbashi
We also stumbled upon an adult store, and we felt too intrigued to check out what’s inside. Inside the adult store in Nipponbashi Den Den Town, we encountered a surreal blend of provocative merchandise and quirky novelties. From risqué costumes and lingerie to playful accessories and gadgets, the store offered an eclectic mix of items designed to titillate and entertain. The ambiance was vibrant yet discreet, with dim lighting adding a sense of mystery to the space. Despite the provocative nature of the products, staff members discreetly assisted customers and answered queries, creating a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere. While exploring the store, we couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer variety of offerings, each item reflecting the bold and uninhibited spirit of Den Den Town’s eclectic culture.
Dotonbori in the Evening & the Best Gyoza in Osaka
After a wild time in Nipponbashi, we walked to Dotonbori, which is not more than 1.2 km from there. Hence, we just walked to Dotonbori. As the evening descends upon Dotonbori, the iconic street comes alive with a kaleidoscope of lights, bustling crowds, and the tantalizing aromas of local delicacies. Hundreds of restaurants and food stalls line the bustling thoroughfare, offering a dazzling array of culinary delights, including the famous Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. Amid this bustling atmosphere, we stumbled upon Gyozaoh! Dotonbori, a hidden gem specializing in vegan gyoza, where there was a long queue before we could actually order them. Despite the long queue, the wait was well worth it as we indulged in these delectable dumplings bursting with flavor. Each bite was a symphony of textures and tastes, showcasing the culinary mastery behind these plant-based delights.
Dinner at Oko Fun Okonomiyaki
For dinner, we decided to devour the famous okonomiyaki from Oko Fun Okonomiyaki, a great place for vegans and vegetarians, but if you are planning to visit, get ready to wait for at least 1-2 hours before you actually get a seat there. The space is compact, the food is too good, people are patient, so it gets crowded and the waiting time is pretty long. Despite the nearly two-hour wait, the vibrant atmosphere of the small, quirky restaurant, managed solely by a spirited proprietor, kept us entertained with its colorful decor and retro music. Seating only a dozen guests at a time, the cozy space exuded a cool, friendly vibe that made the wait worthwhile.
Once seated, we were greeted with a diverse menu offering both meat-based and vegan options. With separate menus for vegetarians and vegans, it was easy to identify and order our preferences. The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the okonomiyaki – a thick savory pancake generously filled with cabbage and topped with an assortment of vibrant vegetables. We also ordered gyozas and yakisoba. Our experience at Oko Fun Okonomiyaki was a testament to the joy of discovering hidden culinary gems amidst the bustling streets of Osaka.
Important Note
Sightseeing in Osaka is incomplete without visiting Osaka Castle and Osaka Castle Park, which we had already visited on day 6.
Goodnight from APA Hotel Osaka
As the day draws to a close after our exhilarating exploration of Osaka’s vibrant streets, it’s time to make our way back to the comforting embrace of APA Hotel. However, before we retire for the night, there’s one cherished ritual left to indulge in: a soothing soak in the traditional Japanese onsen. For many travelers, including myself, immersing in the therapeutic waters of an onsen has become a cherished habit during our time in Japan. As I bid farewell to another day in Osaka and prepare for a restful night’s sleep, I carry with me the comforting embrace of the onsen, a timeless tradition that has become an essential part of my Japanese journey.
Total Distance Traveled: 30 km
NET EXPENSE FOR 1 PERSON (IN USD)
Let us have a look at the shared expenses of Day 7 in Japan – Ultimate Osaka in 1 Day Itinerary
- APA Hotel & Resort Midosuji Honmachi-Eki Tower Osaka (2 nights): Already added on day 6
- 21-day Japan Railway Pass: Already purchased on day 1
- Other transportation (metros): $5
- Sightseeing and activities: $20 (tip given to the free tour)
- Meals and miscellaneous expenses: $25
Total expense (roughly): 50 USD
For a more customized itinerary, whether for solo or couple or group of any number of people, feel free to contact me on Contact Us page.
If you are planning for a much-organized, tastefully-curated, stress-free yet exciting vacation, consider booking your holidays at Travel Love Repeat. It is going to be a treat for sure!
