Osaka

Osaka! This port city on the main island of Honshu is Tokyo’s cheeky, party-loving little brother. It has a vibrant nightlife and great food scene all lit by plenty of neon. In the daytime though, you can visit landmarks such as the picturesque Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, or perhaps check out Universal Studios Japan. There are also plenty of interesting areas to explore, from the old-school Shinsekai to the ultra-hip America-mura. You could easily spend days wandering the hidden pockets of this city!

More importantly, it’s the city of kuidaore or ‘eat until you drop.’ It’s one of the best places in Japan for B-grade gourmet food––in other words,  tasty street food––like takoyaki (octopus batter balls), kushiyaki (deep-fried food on skewers), and delicious okonomiyaki (Kansai-style savoury pancakes). Rub shoulders with the charismatic inhabitants of the city as you munch your way through this foodie paradise and the best food you’ve ever had.